Beijing, an ancient yet modern city, carries the dreams and pursuits of countless people. Here, you can feel the weight of history and experience the modern dynamism. Let’s explore the charm of this city.
Forbidden City
The Forbidden City, located in the heart of Beijing, was not only the residence of emperors during the Ming and Qing dynasties but a living history. As you step onto this solemn land, you can almost hear the echoes of history whispering in your ear. The golden and glittering palace roofs, the magnificent buildings with red walls and yellow tiles, and the exquisite and delicate carvings all speak of the nobility and authority of the ancient royal family. Every brick, every tile, every tree and grass in the Forbidden City contains profound cultural and artistic value. Here, you can slow down your pace and savor the details carved by time, feeling the vastness and depth of Chinese culture.
Temple of Heaven
The Temple of Heaven, an architectural complex located in the southern part of central Beijing, was the holy place where ancient emperors prayed for good harvests. Here, you can sense the awe that ancient people had for nature and their understanding of the universe. The imposing Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests, the mysterious Imperial Vault of Heaven, and the fascinating Echo Wall – each structure shows ancient wisdom. Standing in the center of the Temple of Heaven, close your eyes, and you seem to feel the subtle connection between yourself and the nature, experiencing the ancient people’s profound understanding of harmony and coexistence.
Summer Palace
The Summer Palace, located in the western suburbs of Beijing, is a masterpiece of ancient Chinese garden art. The rippling waves of Kunming Lake, the majestic Longevity Hill, the solemn Tower of Buddhist Incense and the elegant Seventeen-Arch Bridge – each scenic spot is a beautiful painting. Here, you can row across the lake, feeling the tranquility and harmony. The Summer Palace is not only a scenic spot for sightseeing but also a witness to royal history.
Great Wall
The Great Wall, the winding loong atop the mountain ranges, is a symbol of the wisdom and courage of the ancient Chinese people. It is not only a solid defense but also an embodiment of the indomitable spirit of the Chinese nation. Standing on the Great Wall, you can gaze at the mountains and vast land, and feel a sense of heroic ambition. Every stone of the Great Wall is imbued with the sweat and wisdom of the ancient people. Here, you can feel the change of time and the tenacity of the nation.
Peking Man Site at Zhoukoudian
The Peking Man Site at Zhoukoudian, a mysterious place located in Fangshan District, Beijing, is an important Paleolithic site in China. Here, the fossils of "Peking Man" and a large number of cultural relics were discovered, revealing the secrets of human evolution. Standing on the land, you can't help but imagine the scene of our ancestors living here hundreds of thousands of years ago. The site is not only a precious record of human history but also an important tool for us to explore our origins.
Ming Tombs
The Ming Tombs are a group of mausoleums located in Changping District, Beijing. Thirteen Ming dynasty emperors are buried in them. Each tomb carries a glorious and heavy history, as if time has stopped here. The majesty of the Changling Tomb and the solemnity of the sacrificial hall make one feel the nobility and glory of the royal family. Here, you can the transience and eternity of life.
Grand Canal
The Beijing section of the Grand Canal, an ancient waterway, witnessed the prosperity and changes of the City. Walking along the Grand Canal, you will be amazed by the scenery here. The shimmering water, the green trees lining the banks, and the bridges spanning across form a series of beautiful paintings. This was not only the link between the ancient city and the northwestern gardens during the Ming and Qing dynasties but also the economic and cultural connection between the north and south of ancient China. Here, you can feel the prosperity and splendor of the economic and cultural exchanges between the north and south of ancient China.
Badachu Park
The Badachu Park, a tranquil place hidden in the bustling city, allows you to find a moment of peace in your busy life. With beautiful scenery in all four seasons, it is a natural oxygen bar. The eight ancient Buddhist temples in the park were established during the Tang, Song, Yuan, and Ming dynasties. They remain well-preserved, carrying the profound Buddhist culture. Here, you can feel the serenity of nature and the depth of history.
Translator: LI An
Reviewer: PAN Wenrui