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| Beijing
is the capital of the People's Republic of China and is the
nation's center of government, economy, culture, and international
activities. It has 18 districts and counties, with an area of
16,800 square kilometers and a population of 11 million. Beijing
(meaning Northern Capital ) is a place of both ancient history
and dazzling modernity. The city itself is traversed by freeways
and hundreds of flyovers. High-rises adorn the length of this
city making it a major metropolis within China. Beijing, however,
is a city of bewildering juxtapositions. Despite the urban construction
that makes it modern, Beijing has a long history. It?s history
started as early as 500 000 years ago, when Peking Man lived
there. It is an ancient cultural city that served for more than
800 years as the capital of the Liao, Jin, Yuan, Ming, and Qing
dynasties. Beijing is now known for its many special places
of interest.
While the Forbidden City and Tiananmen Square
represent the heart of Beijing, Beijing is a sprawling city
without a defined central downtown. The Chaoyang District
makes up the northeast section of Beijing. The Sanlitun area
features a few embassies, many foreign businesses and a variety
of bars as well as nightclubs. It is regarded as the embodiment
of nightlife in the city.
From the magnificent Forbidden City, with
its stunning wealth of treasures, visitors can begin their
journey through the streets and lanes of Beijing. Moving outside
the center, one moves away from the hustle of daily life,
and into the tranquil pace of ancient times and traditions.
Palaces, parks, narrow alleyways and ancient sites such as
the YongheGong, reveal a different side of Beijing. The Temple
of Heaven's vast grounds are a pleasure to visit year-round,
and are enchanting during a snowstorm.
Visitors can find refuge in the suburbs,in
such places as the Summer Palaces and the Western Hills, which
have been favored retreats since imperial times.
While visiting Beijing, take some time to
hike outside of the city. Excursions may involve a visit to
the Ming Tombs or perhaps a simple picnic amid the historic
ruins. The Great Wall, a site not to be missed, encompasses
many small villages. Visitors should also consider traveling
into the countryside and taking a glimpse of village life.
Overall, Beijing is a city that is fascinating and is rich
in cultural treasures. It provides visitors with a cosmopolitan
view of urban modernity, as well as imparting a deep respect
for times past.
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