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Things to do in Beijing

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Things to do in Beijing

Beijing blends history with modernity, offering endless opportunities for discovery. We’ve done the work for you, consulting experts and exploring both the city’s ancient past and vibrant present. From the Forbidden City to lively food hubs and sleek landmarks, this guide covers the best of Beijing. Whether you’re into history, food, or local experiences, we’ve got you covered for an unforgettable trip.

Places to visit in Beijing: Ancient and modern sites

Things to do in Beijing at night

Shows and concerts

National Centre for the Performing Arts

Beijing’s Iconic Cultural Landmark
A masterpiece of modern architecture and a hub for world-class performances, the National Centre for the Performing Arts (NCPA) is a must-visit for anyone seeking a blend of art, culture, and breathtaking design. Often referred to as "The Giant Egg" due to its striking ellipsoid glass and titanium dome, this futuristic structure floats serenely on an artificial lake, creating a mesmerizing reflection that changes with the light.
Inside, the NCPA houses multiple state-of-the-art performance halls, including an opera house, concert hall, and drama theatre, each designed to host top-tier international and Chinese productions. From opera, ballet, and symphony concerts to contemporary theatre and cultural exhibitions, the venue attracts world-renowned artists, orchestras, and performers year-round.
Even if you're not attending a show, a visit is still worthwhile to admire the stunning architecture, explore its art-filled lobby, or take a guided tour to learn about its cutting-edge acoustics and design philosophy. For arts lovers, it’s an unmissable cultural experience in Beijing.

Beijing’s Night Markets

A Flavorful After-Dark Adventure
As night falls, Beijing’s streets come alive with the aromas of sizzling street food, glowing lanterns, and the hum of locals gathering for late-night eats. While the city no longer has many traditional night markets, Nanluoguxiang and Guijie Street (Ghost Street) offer a vibrant and flavorful glimpse into Beijing’s after-dark culture. Nanluoguxiang, a lively hutong alley, blends historic charm with modern energy, featuring quirky stalls, street food vendors, and trendy bars. It’s the perfect place to stroll, shop for handcrafted souvenirs, and grab a late-night snack like jianbing (Chinese crepes) or lamb skewers.
For a true foodie experience, Guijie Street (Ghost Street) is Beijing’s ultimate late-night dining hub. Lined with rows of bright red lanterns, this famous food street is known for its spicy mala crayfish, Beijing-style hotpot, and sizzling skewers, served well into the early hours.

Beijing Acrobatic Show at Chaoyang Theatre

A Thrilling Spectacle of Skill & Precision
For a jaw-dropping, high-energy performance that showcases one of China’s most celebrated traditional art forms, don’t miss the Beijing Acrobatic Show at Chaoyang Theatre. Combining gravity-defying stunts, impeccable balance, and mind-blowing flexibility, this mesmerizing show keeps audiences on the edge of their seats. A favorite among visitors, the Chaoyang Theatre Acrobatic Show brings together some of China’s top acrobats, who have spent years perfecting their craft. Expect to be amazed by daring aerial acts, synchronized diabolo juggling, intricate contortions, and high-flying motorcycle stunts inside a giant metal sphere. Each act blends tradition with modern spectacle, making it a must-see for travelers of all ages.

Peking Opera at Liyuan Theatre

A Timeless Cultural Experience
For a captivating glimpse into China’s rich theatrical tradition, an evening at Liyuan Theatre is a must. Peking Opera, with its elaborate costumes, dramatic storytelling, and iconic face painting, is a national treasure, blending music, acrobatics, and martial arts into a mesmerizing performance.

At Liyuan Theatre, you’ll witness exaggerated movements, powerful vocals, and intricate stagecraft, bringing classic Chinese legends to life. The ornate setting and immersive atmosphere make it one of the best places in Beijing to experience this centuries-old art form.

Beijing Kung Fu Show

A Martial Arts Spectacle
For an action-packed night of Chinese martial arts, acrobatics, and storytelling, the Beijing Kung Fu Show at Red Theatre is a must-see. Featuring skilled performers of all ages, the show blends Shaolin-style kung fu, dramatic choreography, and breathtaking stunts to tell the story of a young warrior’s journey to enlightenment. Even if you’re not a martial arts fan, the precision, agility, and artistry on display will leave you amazed.

Beijing’s Hidden Shopping Treasures

Beijing is a paradise for those who appreciate artistry, tradition, and craftsmanship. Beyond the gleaming high-end malls and designer boutiques, the city holds a treasure trove of unique finds—where history, culture, and masterful skill come together in every piece. Whether it’s delicate porcelain, intricate paper art, or time-honored local delicacies, Beijing offers a shopping experience that goes beyond the ordinary.

For travelers seeking more than just souvenirs, these hidden gems provide an opportunity to connect with China’s rich heritage. Even if shopping isn’t your main focus, you’re bound to discover something special—perhaps a handmade keepsake, a beautifully crafted artifact, or a taste of Beijing’s past.

To help you find that perfect memento, we’ve curated a list of must-visit specialty shops where tradition meets artistry.

Best Shopping Areas & Markets in Beijing

Popular Shopping Items in Beijing
Cloisonné (Jingtailan) Enamelware
Cloisonné (Jingtailan) Enamelware

One of China’s most famous traditional crafts, cloisonné is a decorative art that involves intricate metalwork and vibrant enamel designs. Beijing is known for producing some of the finest cloisonné items, including vases, jewelry, and tableware—making for a stunning souvenir.

Silk & Embroidery

Beijing has long been a hub for fine silk, with beautifully woven fabrics and embroidered pieces that make for luxurious gifts. High-quality silk scarves, cheongsams (qipaos), and bedding sets are popular purchases for travelers.

Pearls

Freshwater and seawater pearls are a sought-after souvenir in Beijing, often crafted into elegant jewelry pieces. The quality varies, but markets and specialty stores offer everything from affordable strands to premium-grade pearls.

Chinese Tea

Tea culture is deeply rooted in China, and Beijing’s markets offer an extensive selection, from fragrant jasmine tea to rare pu-erh varieties. A beautifully packaged tea set or loose-leaf tea makes for a great gift or personal keepsake.

Chinese Calligraphy & Paintings

For art lovers, traditional ink paintings, calligraphy scrolls, and hand-painted fans are wonderful take-home items. These artworks capture the essence of Chinese culture and make for meaningful decorations.

Paper-Cut Art & Shadow Puppets

Intricate paper-cut designs, often featuring auspicious symbols or folk tales, are a delicate and unique souvenir. Similarly, handcrafted shadow puppets, used in traditional Chinese theater, make for fascinating and artistic keepsakes.

Snuff Bottles

These small, intricately painted glass bottles were once used to hold powdered tobacco. Today, they serve as collectible decorative pieces, often featuring beautiful hand-painted landscapes, portraits, or calligraphy inside the glass.

Oil Paper Umbrellas

Handcrafted from bamboo and oiled paper, these traditional umbrellas are both functional and artistic. Often painted with delicate floral or scenic motifs, they make elegant and cultural souvenirs.

Chinese Knots & Handicrafts

Symbolizing good luck and prosperity, Chinese knots are often given as gifts. Other popular handicrafts include jade carvings, intricate wooden sculptures, and lacquerware.

Traditional Chinese Snacks & Dried Fruits

Beijing is famous for its local delicacies, such as preserved fruits, hawthorn snacks, and sesame brittle. These make for great edible souvenirs to share a taste of China back home.

Best Shopping Areas & Markets in Beijing
Hongqiao Pearl Market (Red Bridge Market)
Hongqiao Pearl Market (Red Bridge Market)

A go-to destination for pearls and jewelry, this market offers a vast selection of freshwater and saltwater pearls at competitive prices. Besides pearls, visitors can also find silk, watches, and various accessories.

Silk Street Market (Xiushui Market)

Famous among international visitors, this multi-story shopping complex specializes in silk products, custom-tailored suits, traditional clothing, and souvenirs. Bargaining is expected here!

Panjiayuan Antique Market

Also known as the "Dirt Market," this sprawling open-air bazaar is the best place to find antiques, traditional artworks, vintage jewelry, and unique Chinese handicrafts. It’s a must-visit for treasure hunters and history lovers.

Liulichang Cultural Street

A historic street filled with shops specializing in calligraphy brushes, ink stones, paintings, and rare books. This is the best place for those interested in traditional Chinese arts and literature.

Wangfujing Snack & Souvenir Street

A lively shopping street where travelers can sample traditional Beijing snacks and find fun souvenirs, from candy figurines to hand-painted chopsticks. It’s a great place for a mix of food and shopping.

Maliandao Tea Street

The ultimate destination for tea lovers, Maliandao is Beijing’s largest tea wholesale market, offering a wide range of teas and tea sets. It’s the perfect spot to discover premium Chinese tea.

Qianmen Street & Dashilan

A blend of historic charm and modern shopping, this area offers everything from time-honored Chinese brands to trendy boutiques. Expect to find silk, traditional medicine, and Beijing’s signature snacks.

Beijing Curio City

China’s largest antique market, Beijing Curio City is ideal for collectors looking for jade, porcelain, old furniture, and authentic Chinese antiques. While some pieces are pricey, it’s a fascinating place to explore.

Ready to explore the best of Beijing? Whether you’re seeking must-visit sights, hidden gems, or the city’s top culinary experiences, we’re here to help! Discover Beijing with a tailored private or small group tour, designed for a smooth and enriching journey. From customized tour bookings to hassle-free travel arrangements, we ensure an experience that’s both memorable and stress-free.

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