In Focus
Located just south of Tiananmen Square, the newly renovated Qianmen district was inaugurated on the eve of the Beijing Olympics. It was supposed to have a face-lift to bring back a certain cachet; the result is unfortunately a little disappointing.
Closed for almost two years because of renovations, the Imperial College, or Guozijian, reopened its doors last month. Located in north-east Beijing, the discreet and modest-sized building is of great importance to Chinese history.
A stone's throw from Houhai lake, just north-west of the Forbidden City, is Qian Gan 5, one of Beijing's few traditional courtyard houses (siheyuan) open to the public.
Located in north-west of Beijing, the Old Summer Palace (Yuanmingyuan) is less known than his successor and neighbour Yiheyuan. Previously a political center of China, the site offers mostly ruins of palaces and magnificent parks that are well worth a visit.
Located at the edge of the Houhai lake, the old residence of Song Qingling is one of the prettiest residences and one of best restored of Beijing.
A 4-hour drive from Beijing, the Liaoning Geological and Fossils Park sends tourists into the world of the very first dinosaurs on the planet. The visitor can experience this museum, the first environmentally friendly museum of China, but also experience the life of a paleontologist for a few hours.
The Ancient Beijing Observatory was built in the 15
th century on the east side of Beijing and is one of the oldest astronomical observatories in the world.
Located on the west side of the capital, the Beijing Zoo is considered the largest animal park in Asia in terms of attendance. If it does not leave an unforgettable impression, it offers some attractions that are worth a visit.
The Forbidden City is one of the most famous China's monuments. Built in the early fifteenth century, the former residence of emperors undergoes a facelift prior to hosting the Olympic Games.
Located directly behind (to the north) the Forbidden City, Coal Hill Park is one of the best preserved imperial parks in the city.
Located in central Beijing, the Underground City was built during the Cultural Revolution to protect from potential nuclear attacks. Never having been used, it has become a public museum. Let's have a look.
Located in around ten kilometers to the west of Beijing, the Fragrant Hills are one of the most popular sights in Beijing. Accessible in all seasons, the autumnal colours attract thousands of tourists.