Beijing

Beijing is where China's history and power converge. It's a slower, grittier city than Shanghai — but richly rewarding. The hutongs (ancient alleyways), world-class museums, and proximity to the Great Wall make it unlike anywhere else. Air quality can be rough in winter, but the culture runs deep.

Beijing Capital (PEK) is the main international airport, 30–50 minutes from the city. The newer Daxing International (PKX) is further out and serves certain airlines. Express Airport Rail links PEK to Dongzhimen in 16 minutes for ¥25.

Beijing South Station connects to Shanghai (4.5 hrs), Tianjin (30 min), and Xi'an (4.5 hrs). Beijing West serves routes to Chengdu, Xi'an, and south China. Beijing is the spine of China's rail network.

Beijing's metro has 27 lines and covers the city well. It's cheap (¥3–8 per ride), clean, and runs to midnight. Peak hours are extremely crowded. Get a Yikatong transit card at any station — works on metro, buses, and taxis.

Didi is the go-to for door-to-door. Regular taxis are plentiful and metered. Beijing's ring road system means traffic jams are common — allow extra time during rush hour. Cycling via Hello Bike or Meituan is excellent in flat central areas.

The expat heartland — embassies, international restaurants, rooftop bars, and the Taikoo Li shopping complex. This is where most foreigners in Beijing spend their weekends. Lively and international.

The ancient alleyway neighborhoods around Houhai Lake and Gulou are some of Beijing's most atmospheric areas. Independent cafes, bars, and galleries are tucked inside centuries-old courtyards. Walking or biking here is essential.

Beijing's largest district — most embassies are here, plus major malls (Solana, Joy City), the 798 Art District, and lots of residential expat housing. A good base if you're working at a multinational.

Multiple sections are within 1–2 hours of central Beijing. Mutianyu is the most popular for foreigners (restored, less crowded than Badaling). Jinshanling and Jiankou are wilder and more dramatic. A Didi or hired car makes it easy — no tour group needed.