Beijing Exploration: A First-Timer's Unexpected Journey

My first time in China: Beijing is not what I expected

Destination:ChinaCity:BeijingPopulation:21.5 million
My first time in China: Beijing is not what I expected
Alina2025-02-0213 min

It's the first time I travelled to China and I started my trip in China's capital Beijing. In today's video we will explore Beijing's most iconic landmarks such as the forbidden city and the temple of heaven and learn a lot about Chinese culture and history. While I expected Beijing to be crowded, noisy and full of pollution I was surprised to find a city that was not at all as I had expected it to be. But see for yourself what it's really like to explore Beijing!

--- Alina
February 2, 2025, Winter in China

Video Chapters

  1. 0:00Arrival in Beijing
  2. 0:20Yingshan Park overview
  3. 1:07Forbidden City visit
  4. 5:32Palace of Heavenly Purity
  5. 7:27Tiananmen Square
  6. 8:07Temple of Heaven
  7. 9:52Hutong exploration
  8. 10:31Bell and Drum Towers
  9. 12:30Final thoughts on Beijing

Alina's Beijing adventure: exploring iconic landmarks, discovering a surprisingly peaceful city, and creating unforgettable memories.

Travel Guides & Tips in this video

  1. Tip 1Always bargain when shopping in China. Negotiate prices to get the best deals, it's a part of the culture. (2:25)
  2. Tip 2Bring your passport! It's essential for entry to many places, acting as your ticket in many cases. (3:26)
  3. Tip 3Book Forbidden City tickets a week in advance to avoid long queues on the day of your visit. (3:40)
  4. Tip 4To visit Tiananmen Square, make an online reservation at least one day ahead of time. (7:49)
  5. Tip 5Explore the hutongs for local snacks and a glimpse into traditional Beijing life; get lost in the charming streets! (10:17)
  6. Tip 6Visit the Drum Tower and try to catch the hourly drum show for a unique cultural experience. (11:57)
  7. Tip 7The Drum Tower is a must-see; the Bell Tower is optional but affordable if you have time. (12:20)

Alina's first China experience begins in Beijing, defying expectations. This video explores iconic landmarks like the Forbidden City and Temple of Heaven, revealing a surprisingly quiet and clean city. Alina shares unique insights into local culture, from bargaining in markets to the unexpected tranquility of bustling streets. Don't miss her captivating journey through ancient hutongs and modern skyscrapers!

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My first time in China: Beijing is not what I expected

This video follows Alina on her first trip to China, starting in Beijing. She begins at Yingshan Park, offering stunning panoramic views of the city, including the Forbidden City and the surrounding hutongs. Alina notes the surprising quietude of the city despite its size.

Her journey continues to the Forbidden City, where she details the historical significance and architectural grandeur of the palace complex. She highlights the Hall of Supreme Harmony and the Palace of Heavenly Purity, emphasizing the rich history and cultural symbolism. Alina shares practical tips for purchasing tickets, recommending advance booking to avoid long queues.

Next, Alina's exploration leads her to Tiananmen Square, although she unfortunately misses visiting it due to the lack of prior reservation. She then visits the Temple of Heaven, a vast park complex showcasing Ming Dynasty architecture. She describes the circular Temple of Heaven building and its symbolic representation of Heaven and Earth.

Alina also explores the charming hutongs, ancient alleyways showcasing traditional Chinese architecture, and the Bell and Drum Towers, significant for their role in marking time. She describes the drum show and the breathtaking 360° view from the Bell Tower.

Throughout her journey, Alina contrasts her initial expectations of a crowded, noisy, and polluted Beijing with the reality of a relatively quiet and clean city. She shares personal anecdotes, such as purchasing a warm hat and bargaining in the market, offering unique insights into her experiences. Her narrative is filled with vivid descriptions and personal observations, making the video a captivating journey through Beijing's historical and cultural landscape. Alina's enthusiasm and genuine curiosity make this a must-watch for anyone planning a trip to Beijing or interested in exploring Chinese culture.

Beijing Exploration: A First-Timer's Unexpected Journey

It's the first time I travelled to China and I started my trip in Chinas capital Beijing. In today's video we will explore Beijings most iconic landmarks such as the forbidden city and the temple of heaven and learn a lot about Chinese culture and history. While I expected Beijing to be crowded,...

Beijing Exploration: Forbidden City, Temple of Heaven & Hutongs

Embark on Alina's captivating journey to Beijing, China's vibrant capital. Witness iconic landmarks like the Forbidden City and Temple of Heaven, delving into the rich tapestry of Chinese culture and history. Prepare to be surprised! Alina's firsthand account reveals a Beijing that defies expectations, a city brimming with unexpected charm and wonder. Explore this fascinating destination through her eyes and discover a side of Beijing you won't soon forget.

Attractions in this video: Forbidden City, Temple Of Heaven, Bell Tower, Drum Tower, Hutongs