From Duck to Dragons 🐉 Your Beijing Weekend Plan

Weekend in Beijing 🇨🇳 – A Quick Guide Day 1 – History & Culture 🏯 Start your day early at the Forbidden City. It opens at 8:30 AM, and mornings are best before the crowds arrive. Take your time exploring the massive palace complex and imagine what life was like during imperial times. Afterward, walk across to Jingshan Park for a panoramic view over the city – especially stunning if the sky is clear. Have lunch at a traditional Beijing noodle shop or try a dumpling house nearby. In the afternoon, head to the Temple of Heaven – a peaceful park where locals dance, play cards, and practice tai chi. End the day with Peking Duck dinner – Quanjude or Da Dong are popular places to try this iconic dish. Day 2 – Local Life & Modern Vibes 🏙️ Morning stroll through the Hutongs (narrow alleyways) in areas like Nanluoguxiang or Shichahai. Grab a coffee or local breakfast snack like jianbing (savory crepe). Rent a bike or tuk-tuk and ride around the lakes – peaceful and scenic. Stop by Lama Temple for a beautiful example of Tibetan Buddhist architecture. Have lunch at a vegetarian temple restaurant or try a modern fusion spot. In the afternoon, explore 798 Art District – a former industrial area turned into galleries, boutiques, and cafés. End your weekend with cocktails or tea at a rooftop bar near CBD or the Sanlitun nightlife area. *Tips 🧭 * Get a transportation card (Yikatong) for easy metro access * Most locals use WeChat Pay or Alipay – bring cash as backup * Download Pleco or Google Translate with Chinese offline packs * Be prepared for squat toilets in public places (carry tissue) Souvenirs to Look For 🎁 * Silk scarves or fans * Chinese tea * Calligraphy or paper art * Local snacks like hawthorn candy or spiced sunflower seeds