Explore Beijing Beyond the Postcards

Explore Beijing Like a 10-Year Resident

Tourist Guides · Cover Food, Accommodation, Transport & Daily Life.

beijinghutong

Themed Deep Routes

Curated routes for cultural immersion, including hutongs, gardens, and industrial heritage.

beijing subway

Traveler’s Survival Guide

Practical tips for payment, transport, language, and daily life in Beijing.

beijing tea house

Hidden Gems

Off-the-beaten-path spots I discovered in 10 years, away from crowds.

Travel Guide

Recommended City Walk Routes

Historical and Cultural Journey Along the Central Axis

Route: JingshanPark→Di’anmen→Yuhe Ancient Waterway→Wan’ning Bridge→Bell and Drum Towers→Qianmen→Dashilar→Dongjiaomin Lane

Embassy District and Modern Metropolis Tour

Route: Jianguomenwai Avenue→Ritan Road→
Guanghua Road→Jintong West Road

Hutong Culture and Art Exploration

Route: Shijia Hutong→Dongsi Hutong→Longfusi Temple→798 Art District

Jingshan Park
Bell and Drum Towers
798 Art District
Longfusi Temple

Quick Tips for Travelers

Payment:Support Alipay/WeChat Pay, some stalls need cash, prepare 500 RMB in advance.
Transport:Subway accepts mobile payment, download “Metro Beijing” APP, and buses support Alipay transit code.
LanguageEnglish signs in popular areas, along with simple Chinese phrases (e.g., “Xiexie”, “Duoshao qian”) are helpful.
DiningMost restaurants have no English menus, so use a translation app and try local snacks instead of internet-famous shops.
Internet:Buy local SIM card or rent a pocket WiFi, free WiFi available in hotels/malls.

about author

ABOUT ME

Discover Beijing Beyond Tourist Traps

Hi there! I’m Tingting—a long-time Beijing resident who’s called this vibrant city home for over a decade.
What started as a work opportunity turned into a deep love for Beijing’s unique mix of ancient charm and modern energy. When I’m not busy with my day job, you’ll find me wandering—whether it’s getting lost in the labyrinthine hutongs (tiny traditional alleys) where locals chat over tea, chasing seasonal beauty like cherry blossoms in Yuyuantan or red leaves in Xiangshan, or uncovering hidden gems most tourists never stumble upon (think quiet neighborhood markets, lesser-known temples, or cozy cafes tucked away from the crowds).
I’ve explored every corner of Beijing’s iconic spots—from the grandeur of the Forbidden City and the serenity of the Summer Palace to the bustling energy of Tiananmen Square—but my real passion lies in sharing the authentic Beijing. I know the best times to visit popular sites to avoid crowds, the local’s favorite spots for cheap and delicious eats, and the off-the-beaten-path experiences that truly capture the city’s soul.
After 10 years, Beijing isn’t just a place I live—it’s where I’ve built connections, learned the rhythms of daily life, and discovered countless little joys. My goal with this blog is to pass on that insider knowledge to you: no tourist traps, no overhyped spots, just honest, practical tips to help you explore Beijing like a local.
Whether you’re here for history, culture, nature, or just want to soak up the city’s vibe, I’m here to guide you. Let’s skip the crowds and uncover the real Beijing together!

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All content is personal experience, not commercial recommendation. Travel at your own discretion.