Hotels in Beijing

Beijing, the capital of the People’s Republic of China (PRC), is an important world capital and global power city and recognised as a leading centre for politics, economy, business, finance, innovation, and technology. Despite its modernity, Beijing is an epicenter of Chinese history and tradition. It still manages to retain its rich history spanning three millennia – making it a must-visit destination on every avid traveller’s bucket list.

How to Get There

The best way to travel to Beijing from Malaysia is by taking a direct flight from KLIA. Direct flights are available throughout the day. Without delays or transits, the typical flight duration should take under 6 hours to arrive.

You will land at the Beijing International Airport, which is located about 32km northeast of Beijing’s city centre. From there, you can take the Airport Express Line railway directly to the city centre. Another alternative option to travel to the city centre is via an airport bus; there are 18 bus routes to and from points throughout the city and can cost up to ¥30 per ride depending on the route.

Public Transportations Available

As one of the most advanced cities in Asia, Beijing is equipped with an extensive public transportation network consisting primarily of buses and the subway train lines. Through this public transportation system, tourists will be able to travel to most parts of the cities conveniently and affordably.

Subway

The most convenient way to do inner-city trips in Beijing is via its subway line. The Beijing Subway covers nearly all the popular destinations in the city, providing unrestricted access to the most popular locations throughout the city. Currently comprised of 22 lines and 370 stations, you’ll be able to travel to almost all parts of the city easily, including the outskirts and outlying suburbs.

Bus

For areas that are not covered by the subway network, buses become the best public transportation option of choice. Bus stations are relatively easy to spot; simply look out for the green and white board with the bus numbers framed in red boxes. There are two types of Beijing buses: the two-door bus and the three-door bus. For the former, you’ll should get on from the front door and exit from the back door, whereas for the three-door buses, you should get on from the middle door and disembark from the other two doors. Moreover, you’ll be able to enjoy a discount if you pay the fare via the Beijing Transporation Card.

Tourist Attractions

Despite its reputation as one of the most advanced capitals in the world today, Beijing still hasn’t forgotten its origins. The city is renowned for its opulent palaces, temples, parks, tombs, and gates –nostalgic mementos of its rich and colourful history. The city boasts UNESCO World Heritage Sites, such as the Forbidden City and the Great Wall of China. Apart from these, the city’s traditional housing style – siheyuan, and hutongs, the narrow alleys between them – have also become a popular spot for reminiscing about the olden days.

Temple of Heaven

Located in Southeastern Beijing, this UNESCO World Heritage site is known for being the best religious site in the city. This imperior complex contains three main religious constructions, namely The Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests, The Imperial Vault of Heaven, and the Circular Mound Altar. The emperors of the Ming and Qing dynasties used to visit the temple to make annual prayer ceremonies to the heavens for good harvest and favourable weather throughout the year.

Great Wall of Badaling

Beijing is also one of the best locations in China to visit the iconic Great Wall of China. Situated 80km northwest of urban Beijing city, Badaling is the site of the most visited stretch of the Great Wall. This portion of the wall running through Badaling was built in 1504 during the era of the Ming dynasty.

The Forbidden City

No trip to Beijing is complete without visiting the Forbidden City, the most iconic historical representation of Chinese tradition and culture. This enormous palace compound was the emperors’ home during the Ming and Qing dynasties. Today, the compound houses the Palace Museum, which showcases imperior collections of Chinese art throughout China’s history. Surrounding the Forbidden City are several former imperial gardens, parks and scenic areas. Tiananmen Square, where several notable sites are located, including the National Museum of China, Tiananmen, and the Mausoleum of Mao Zedong, is located across The Forbidden City and is also a spot worth visiting as well.

Where to Stay

As Beijing hosts millions of visitors annually, the city has to ensure that it offers a wide array of accommodation options to cater to tourists who come from far and wide. The choices are endless, ranging from cosy and affordable to luxurious and extravagant.

Pentahotel Beijing

Located about 1km away from Tiananmen Square and the National Museum of China, this hotel is a good option if you want to live near the popular attractions in this bustling capital. The Chongwenmen subway station and a bus stop is located within a stone throw away from the hotel, while several shopping centres and restaurants are also within walking distance.

Beijing 161 Wangfujing Hotel

The Beijing 161 Wangfujing Hotel is a good wallet-friendly option for tourists who are travelling on a budget. Situated near Dongsi Station, you will have access to the extensive subway line which enables you to reach most areas of Beijing easily. This is also a great hotel for Muslims, as the historic Dongsi Mosque and halal eateries are located nearby as well.

Novotel Beijing Sanyuan

Impeccable customer service, strategic location, and comfortable rooms – these are only a handful of the benefits that this hotel is known for. The Sanyuanqiao subway station is located just in front of the hotel, providing easy access to the city centre. The hotel also offers guided city tours as well as a car rental service, giving you the option to drive around the city on your own.