There’s lots to do during your one day in Beijing off your cruise ship. Creating your own travel itinerary can guarantee you get to visit the attractions that interest you. The most popular day trip destinations for Beijing include the Summer Palace (Yiheyuan), Tiananmen Square (Tiananmen Guangchang), and Forbidden City (Imperial Palace).
The Summer Palace has many beautiful lakes and gardens. It was created by the Qing Dynasty and located on Longevity Hill which is 200 ft tall. Summer Palace is comprised of several palaces, pavilions, bridges, and temples.
Tiananmen Square
Tiananmen Square is a historic landmark that symbolizes political resistance. In 1989, students gathered at the capital to protest the People’s Republic of China. The students wanted democracy in China and therefore, this has become must-see location in Beijing.
Another famous attraction in Beijing is the Badaling Great Wall. The structure was built in 453 B.C and is one of the great wonders of the world. Many people don’t know that The Great Wall of China is really made up of several walls. The materials used to build each section of the wall is different. It can be attributed to the preference of local craftsmen and what natural materials were available in their regional landscape.
It is quite possible to see many of these sights during a one-day shore excursion. You will still have time to eat authentic Chinese food and explore the local culture. Professional tour guides recommend spending 1 hour to 1.5 hours at Tian’anmen Square, Temple of Heaven, Lama Temple, Drum Tower and Beihai Park. You will want to spend at least 2 hours in the Forbidden City. The Forbidden City is full of delicate gardens and breath-taking pavilions. It was home to 24 Chinese Emperors between the 15th and 20th Century.
If you would like your next cruise to include China, please let us know.
