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Beijing (Běijīng [北京]), literally the "north capital," is also sometimes referred to as "Peking". It has been the capital of China at various times in the country’s long history, and most recently since the founding of the People’s Republic of China (中华人民共和国) in 1949. This fascinating capital city, at first glance, seems to effortlessly blend tradition with modernism - first time visitors will immediately be struck by the contrasts between old and new and the inescapable sense that change is happening at an accelerated pace.
Beijing has something for everyone. For the history buffs, Beijing is a living museum, filled with countless palaces, tombs, and temples left from centuries of Imperial rule. For foreign students and scholars, Beijing boasts two world-renowned universities as well as dozens of top-tier language institutions. For culinary enthusiasts, Beijing greets you with her mouth-watering Peking duck. For the culturally inclined, Beijing offers the bright faces and unique sounds of the Beijing Opera (京剧). For those seeking retail therapy, Beijing is a shopping haven. For nature lovers, Beijing has hiking trails, many tranquil parks, and of course you can climb the greatest wall in the world! For sports fans, Beijing bustles with the preparations of the 2008 Olympics.
No matter what you’re looking for, Beijing has it. And the best part is - there is always more to explore as the city is constantly evolving in the race to modernise and beautify ahead of the 2008 Olympics. Contrasts and contradictions await you at every turn - exclusive apartment buildings next to dilapidated old-style buildings, luxury cars driving alongside hawkers transporting their goods on the back of their bikes, ancient temples surrounded by modern high-rises. Whatever comfort zone you happen to be in, be prepared to be shaken out of it by this relentless but exciting city.
You could spend a year in Beijing and still find that you’ve only scratched the surface. So what are you waiting for? Beijing beckons!
Fast Facts About Beijing
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Northeastern corner of China
Estimates start at 11 million
Predominantly Han Chinese
Mandarin (Pǔtōnghuà [普通话])
"+86 010" from abroad. "010" from within China.
Peking Duck
About 50 000 and growing.
Hub of China. Plentiful air, rail, bus transport.
Taxi, subway, bus, bicycle.
Freezing winter, hot and rainy in summer. Most pleasant during autumn.
Capital of China, Great Wall of China, Home of 2008 Olympics, Tiananmen Square, Forbidden City |
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