Beijing , China

Beijing is one of the four ancient cities of China (together with Xian, Luoyang, Nanjing), the best preserved, and famous around the world. Beijing is also known as a cradle of humanity. As early as 700,000 years ago, Peking Man lived in Zhoukoudian area of Beijing.

Beijing City was established over 3,000 years ago and was called Jin City in the Western Zhou Dynasty (11th century BC - 771 BC). Ever since Emperor Qin united China in 221 BC, Beijing has played an important role in north China. It was the capital city in the Liao (916-1125), Jin (1115-1234), Yuan (1271-1368), Ming (1368-1644) and Qing (1644-1911) dynasties. During these 800 years, 34 emperors lived and ruled here. The world renowned Forbidden City was built during this period. At the end of the Qing Dynasty, World War I broke out. Beijing became the focus of invaders. The war disrupted the society. Many residences of royal families were robbed and burned down. After that, the whole country was reduced to the status of semi-colonial and semi-feudal society. It wasn't until October 1st, 1949 that the People's Republic of China was founded. Beijing is known as the capital city of the prosperous new country which has flared into importance in Asia.

The Great Wall of China is one of the 'Eight Wonders of the World' and is enlisted in the World Heritage Directory. This immense wall was built to keep out invaders as well as to retain the inhabitants. It spans five provinces from Shanhaiguan Pass in the east to Jiayuguan Pass in the west, looking like a gigantic dragon across deserts, grasslands and mountains.

Thanks for the 29th Summer Olympics, Beijing has been well-known for travelers all over the world. This hospitable metropolis of China has been mixed with lots of modern elements, which is also a new part for its mysterious orient civilization. There are so many representative buildings displaying this international metropolis, such as the Beijing National Stadium and the National Aquatics Center for 2008 Olympics and the China Century Monument.

Beijing Climate - Best Time to Visit

The four seasons in Beijing, a northern city, are demarcated with a long hot summer, long chilly winter, and shorter spring and autumn. The hottest month is July and the coldest is January. Considering the frequent sandstorms in spring, September and October with their pleasant weather are considered the best visiting times.

To visit Beijing in spring or autumn, bring lightweight clothing such as long-sleeved shirts or T-shirts, plus one or two jackets and sweaters. The temperature in summer ranges between 30 and 39 centigrade, calling for summer clothes.

A winter journey to Beijing may be a shock to visitors from tropical countries. Enjoying the snow scene on West Hill, skating in Beihai Park, followed by a steaming hotpot with mutton slices will drive out the chills. Be sure to bring winter clothes, including wool sweaters and down coats.

Spring is rainy season in Beijing, with some rain in summer and between summer and autumn. Rainstorms may happen without warning in the afternoon of sunny days. Sometimes even weather forecasters can predict a shower only one or two hours ahead. Heavy rain may block traffic; inconveniencing everyone. Remember to pack a raincoat or umbrella.