Just about 4 hours drive from Beijing is Datong, a historic city, which used to be the capital for 3 Chinese dynasties. Even thou it is located in the "coal capital" of the country, Datong has valuable historic treasures to display for its visitors.
Just about 4 hours drive from Beijing is Datong, a historic city, which used to be the capital for 3 Chinese dynasties. Even thou it is located in the "coal capital" of the country, Datong has valuable historic treasures to display for its visitors.
Due to its strategic location, the Yanmenguan Pass of the Great Wall is considered to be one of the most important gates. It was initially built during the Warrior States period and continuously reconstructed since. The name means "wild goose" as there are many geese to be seen in the area.
The temple was originally built during the Tang Dynasty (618-907). However it was destroyed and rebuilt multiple times since then due to warfare and change in dynasties. It features a beautiful Five Dragon Screen, considered one of the Dragon treasures of Datong.
Located in the heart of Datong, Huayan Monastery is a great example of Liao Dynasty architecture. It consist of two parts. The upper one, Grand Hall, houses beautiful Buddha statues while the lower one, Sutra Temple, houses a large library of Buddhist writings.
Built without a single nail, the wooden pagoda is an architectural beauty and a cherished place of religion.
Mount Heng (Hengshan) is one of the Five Great Mountains of China. It is a sacred mountain with strong significance for Taoists. It is a beautiful place to hike and enjoy the wonderful nature. The Hanging Monastery is on the slope of Hengshan and an amazing place to visit while there.
As an ancient city, Datong also has it very own City Wall. A great place for a walk during the day or at night when the lights are out. Even though the wall is brand new (a replica of what it used to be) it is still a nice spot to explore.
Datong used to be the capital city for 3 dynasties. However very few artifacts remain intact from those days... The solution? Rebuilt it! The government of the city began an enormous project to construct the center in a traditional Chinese style architecture. It is an interesting place to visit and experience! There are also some nice restaurant to enjoy the local cuisine.
This beautiful masterpiece of ancient China is one of the 3 Nine Dragon Walls - Forbidden City, Beihai Park and Datong. It is crafted in an exquisite way with beautiful glazed tiles and artfully done dragons chasing the suns and the moons, playing with pearls and displayed in beautiful movements.
Built in 491, the Hanging Monastery is an architectural wonder. It is astonishing how in such early times, the mechanics were so well worked out that this monastery still hangs at the side of Mt. Hengshan. It is a scared place for Buddhism, Taoism and Confucianism. There are 40 halls containing sacred treasures along with outstanding sculptures and carvings.
The massive Yungang Grottoes are an outstanding masterpiece of Buddhist cave art in China. The complex dates back to the 5th century AD and contains 252 caves with 51 000 statues. It is so extraordinary and fascinating that the visit will always be present in your mind.
Just about 3 hours drive from Beijing, is Chengde. Known as the summer escape for generations of Qing emperors. The mountain city has important cultural and historic significance. It has been the place of many diplomatic relations meetings and important events from the public life in China.
Just about 3 hours drive from Beijing, is Chengde. Known as the summer escape for generations of Qing emperors. The mountain city has important cultural and historic significance. It has been the place of many diplomatic relations meetings and important events from the public life in China.
The ancient capital city of China hides a wealth of spiritual places which to this day provide tranquility, guidance and a spiritual escape from the busy daily life. Here are the most sacred temples of Beijing where Chinese history, philosophy and wisdom can be tracked to the antiquity.
The ancient capital city of China hides a wealth of spiritual places which to this day provide tranquility, guidance and a spiritual escape from the busy daily life. Here are the most sacred temples of Beijing where Chinese history, philosophy and wisdom can be tracked to the antiquity.
Here is the best way to explore the greatest highlights of Beijing in just 24 hours layover itinerary. Follow the line up below to get the essence of China's capital in just one full day of exploration and fun...
Here is the best way to explore the greatest highlights of Beijing in just 24 hours layover itinerary. Follow the line up below to get the essence of China's capital in just one full day of exploration and fun...
Shopaholics, get ready! Shopping in Beijing is incredible - you can find anything and everything - from the most exquisite and expensive goods to cheap and cool souvenirs. Be prepared to haggle! Bargaining is the name of the game and Chinese are really, really good at it. It is an entire shopping ritual until you set the price... May the games begin! Happy shopping!
Shopaholics, get ready! Shopping in Beijing is incredible - you can find anything and everything - from the most exquisite and expensive goods to cheap and cool souvenirs. Be prepared to haggle! Bargaining is the name of the game and Chinese are really, really good at it. It is an entire shopping ritual until you set the price... May the games begin! Happy shopping!
For hundreds of years Beijing has been the cultural, political and economic center of China. This cosmopolitan city takes its visitors on a fast track tour through history with its well preserved temples, traditional narrow hatong neighborhoods and the astonishing Forbidden City. Then quickly it flies to the metropolis Beijing is today. Its futuristic facades and skyscrapers of concrete and glass contrast with the colorful wooden houses and create an atmosphere of everlasting mix between tradition and modernism where dining, shopping and entertainment options are endless.
For hundreds of years Beijing has been the cultural, political and economic center of China. This cosmopolitan city takes its visitors on a fast track tour through history with its well preserved temples, traditional narrow hatong neighborhoods and the astonishing Forbidden City. Then quickly it flies to the metropolis Beijing is today. Its futuristic facades and skyscrapers of concrete and glass contrast with the colorful wooden houses and create an atmosphere of everlasting mix between tradition and modernism where dining, shopping and entertainment options are endless.
Every first time visitor to China has to experience the most famous, most significant and most historic places along the Golden Triangle: Beijing - Xian - Shanghai. That is the cradle of ancient history, modern society and diverse scenery. Yes, we know it is a tough choice how to experience such a vast country in such a short time... That is why, we suggest to start from the classics - those that will astonish you and leave you wanting more!
The 10 days trip itinerary below is ordered according to location, proximity and convenience of exploration: Beijing (5 days); Xian (2 days); Shanghai (3 days)
Every first time visitor to China has to experience the most famous, most significant and most historic places along the Golden Triangle: Beijing - Xian - Shanghai. That is the cradle of ancient history, modern society and diverse scenery. Yes, we know it is a tough choice how to experience such a vast country in such a short time... That is why, we suggest to start from the classics - those that will astonish you and leave you wanting more!
The 10 days trip itinerary below is ordered according to location, proximity and convenience of exploration: Beijing (5 days); Xian (2 days); Shanghai (3 days)