The marvels of the East and budget-conscious shopping in Beijing

The Beijing area was already inhabited half a million years ago, so the sense of history in this part of the world is palpable. The modern city is a fascinating melting pot of cultures and eras, in which Western consumerism blends ever more vigorously with Chinese traditions. Beijing is globalising at a furious pace but nevertheless still manages to provide a great many marvels of the East.

From the imperial dynasties to the power of Mammon
The Forbidden City with its imperial palace, gardens and pavilion is an excellent place to begin a historical excursion. Passing through to T'ien-an Men Square and the modern part of the city involves a leap through the dynasty of the Communists to the present day, in which the latest supreme ruler often seems to be the power of money. One absolutely essential excursion is the Great Wall, which in its sheer size simply beggars belief. You can avoid the main tourist routes by viewing the wall in the northern Huanghua area.

Main streets and hutongs
Beijing is unashamedly commercial, and a wonderful place to go shopping. One particular commodity that is well worth searching for here is clothing, which is still very reasonably priced.

To see the city at its most genuine, you must head away from the main streets into the small alleyways or hutongs. The numerous small restaurants are an experience in themselves, as real Chinese food is infinitely more diversified than the limited versions often found in the West.

The parks of this great city offer a charming place to rest your feet when you are ready for a break. Such repose is necessary, as this is a city that never truly rests, and the nightlife goes on well into the small hours.

 

A visa is required of Finnish citizens when traveling to China. Visas may also be obtained via Area. A surcharge is made for this service.