Hualuxe Hotels in Beijing

Planning a trip to Beijing? Pack your bags now and unlock the secrets of Beijing with China's amazing 144-hour (six days) visa-free transit! Think of Beijing as a time machine that takes you from ancient history to sleek modernity in the blink of an eye. Walk through the Forbidden City's grand gates, soak up the bustling vibe of Tiananmen Square, and don't miss the delicious street food in Hutongs!

Getting Around Beijing

Beijing, the capital of China, attracts a vast number of overseas tourists every year. Most international flights arrive at Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK).

Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK)

Location: Nestled in the northeastern suburbs of Beijing, roughly 30 kilometers (18 miles) from the city center.

Go to the city center: The airport is connected to downtown Beijing via the Airport Express Subway Line, which whisks you to Dongzhimen Station in just 20 minutes. Alternatively, you can take Airport Shuttle Buses or Taxis directly into the city.

Tips: If you're taking a red-eye flight, consider staying at one of these nearby hotels that offer airport shuttle services to make your trip more relaxing.

Beijing Daxing International Airport (PKX)

Location: Situated in the southern part of Beijing, approximately 55 kilometers (34 miles) south of the city center.

Go to the city center: Daxing Airport also has an airport subway line, which connected to other lines, takes about an hour to easily reach Tiananmen Station. The airport is served by Airport Shuttle Buses and Taxis, too.

During your visit to Beijing, you can also choose these ways to get around:

Metro: Runs from approximately 5:00 AM to 11:00 PM, with fares ranging from $0.3 (2 RMB) for short trips to over $3.5 (24 RMB) for longer journeys. You can buy tickets using cash, credit cards, or mobile payment apps like Alipay.

Taxis: Easily hailed on the street or through apps, with a starting fare of $2.50 (13 RMB) for the first 3 kilometers. Rates increase per kilometer thereafter, with a surcharge for rides during peak hours and late-night.

Buses: A budget-friendly option, with fares ranging from $0.20 (1.3 RMB) to $0.80 (5.4 RMB). Beijing's extensive bus network covers the entire city.

Subway-to-Airport Express Train: Connects Beijing Capital Airport to Sanyuanqiao Station in about 20 minutes and Beijing Daxing Airport to Beijing South Railway Station in 18 minutes. Tickets cost around $5.00 (35 RMB) for a one-way trip.

If you're planning to visit nearby cities from Beijing, Beijing West Railway Station is a major hub, accessible via Metro Lines 7, 9, and 14, surrounded by shopping and dining options. Beijing South Railway Station, accessible via Lines 4, 14, and the Airport Express, is another significant station known for its extensive train networks connecting to various cities across China.

Top Things to Do in Beijing

Beijing rocks with top attractions like Tiananmen Square, the Forbidden City where ancient emperors once ruled, and Universal Studios Beijing for an epic movie-themed adventure! For your stay, I'd recommend either Haidian or Chaoyang districts – Haidian because it's home to loads of cultural spots and universities, giving you a vibe that's both scholarly and lively, or Chaoyang for its modern flair, skyscrapers, and convenient access to shopping, dining, and nightlife.

Tiananmen Square

Tiananmen Square in Beijing is an incredible open-air museum of Chinese history and culture. Imagine a sprawling plaza that's bigger than a hundred football fields, filled with the energy and spirit of a city that never sleeps. Whether you're exploring Beijing's ancient roots or simply enjoying a stroll, Tiananmen Square delivers an unforgettable experience.

Universal Studios Beijing

Wanna get down to some fun? Universal Studios Beijing is the ultimate thrill ride destination. Enter a world where your favorite movies come to life. Ride alongside Transformers in a high-octane adventure or explore the magical realms of Harry Potter at Hogwarts Castle.

Now, Universal Studios Beijing has officially opened the winter season. The colorful and shining Starry Christmas Tree, the romantic Christmas wreaths will all be on display! Take a stroll along the streets of Hollywood and you will unexpectedly discover that the familiar movie characters have also put on winter costumes.

Where to Stay: Since Universal Studios Beijing is far from the city center, if you're looking for an itinerary more leisurely, consider staying at these hotels near the park that offer free shuttle service, like Jinglanting Hotel (Beijing Wansheng East Subway Station), Park Inn by Radisson Beijing Tongzhou Universal Resort and Jianguo Bocui Hotel (Beijing Universal resort).

The Great Wall

Now, let's talk about the ultimate adventure – the Great Wall! Stretching for thousands of miles like a dragon across mountains and valleys, this ancient defense structure is a must-see. As the saying goes, "You are not a hero until you reach the Great Wall." It’s a bit of a climb, but the sense of achievement and the breathtaking scenery are well worth it. Don't forget to snap a pic – it's a memory you'll cherish forever!

The Forbidden City

Next up, dive into China's imperial past at the Forbidden City, also called "The Palace Museum". Imagine walking through the gates where only emperors and their families once tread. With its stunning palaces, intricate roof tiles, and vibrant murals, it's like stepping into a living history book. Don't miss the Forbidden City's treasure trove of artifacts, showcasing China's rich cultural heritage.

Better to know before visiting Beijing

Currency: In Beijing, the local currency is the Chinese Yuan (RMB). You can easily exchange your US dollars at the airports, banks, or currency exchange booths around the city. ATMs are really common and most of them accept international cards, so you won't have a problem getting cash.

Payment Methods: Beijing is super digital-friendly too. Besides using cash, you'll find that mobile payments like Alipay are accepted everywhere, from big stores and restaurants to even small street vendors. Credit cards are usually accepted in larger places like malls and hotels.

Language: While a lot of younger locals, especially in tourist spots, can understand basic English, it's always helpful to know a few Mandarin phrases. It can make your trip smoother and more enjoyable.

Emergency Contacts: If you need help, here are the numbers you should know: Police: 110; Ambulance or Medical Emergency: 120; Fire: 119.

What to Eat in Beijing

Beijing cuisine is famous for its hearty flavors, love of using local ingredients, and the perfect blend of savory and slightly sweet notes.

Peking Roast Duck (北京烤鸭): Crispy, golden-brown skin wrapped around tender, juicy meat, served with thin pancakes, sweet sauce, and fresh cucumber slices. It's a mouthwatering experience that's a must-have for anyone visiting Beijing.

Mutton Hot Pot (涮羊肉): A communal feast where thin slices of mutton are swirled in boiling broth filled with herbs and spices. Each bite is a celebration of tender meat and savory broth, making it a perfect choice for cold Beijing winters.

Bean Jelly with Syrup (糖耳朵): Sweet, chewy bean jelly treats coated in a glossy syrup, these desserts are not just a treat for the taste buds but also a visual delight. They're perfect for a quick snack or an end-of-meal sweetener.

Beijing Weather Guide

Beijing experiences a temperate continental climate with four distinct seasons. The city has hot, humid summers and cold, dry winters, with short spring and autumn periods.

The best time to visit Beijing is from September to November when the weather is cool, the skies are clear, and the autumn foliage is at its most beautiful. This period offers the most comfortable temperatures for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

To avoid large crowds and potential overcrowding, it's recommended to steer clear of major Chinese holidays such as Labor Day (May 1st-5th) and National Day (October 1st-7th). These periods can see a significant increase in tourist numbers, leading to longer wait times at attractions and busier public transportation. Planning your trip away from these dates will help ensure a more enjoyable and less crowded experience in Beijing.

Time in Beijing

Beijing operates on China Standard Time (GMT+8) and doesn't observe Daylight Saving Time.

Note: The time difference is calculated based on the standard time zones and does not account for Daylight Saving Time (DST), which may affect the actual time difference depending on the specific dates. When planning a trip, it's advisable to check the current time difference and DST status for accurate scheduling.