Beijing is the bustling capital city of China; not only is it the hub of China’s modern innovations, it is also a site filled with historical destinations and interesting activities. The following are the top 5 things you should do when you visit Beijing, China.

Visit the Great Wall of China

no visit to China is complete without going to the Great Wall. There are numerous sections available to the public, ranging from highly restored sections which are ideal for travelers who aren’t physically fit (Badaling) and less developed sections that are far less crowded but require more physical stamina, such as Simatai and Jiankou.

Spend a Day at the Forbidden City

The Forbidden City is an exceptionally well-preserved imperial palace with stunning architecture and adjacent gardens that are perfect for spending an entire afternoon–or even an entire day–exploring. Wear comfortable shoes!

Summer Palace

The Summer Palace is a well-preserved imperial palace and garden that features stunning views, boat rides and more. Be prepared to climb a bit, since some of the areas can only be accessed with steep steps.

Attend the Opera

If you’ve interested in a unique Chinese cultural tradition, head to the Li Yuan Theater in Beijing and book tickets for an opera performance. There are typically shows held every day, but check out the website for performance information before visiting the city. It is definitely a night that you won’t forget!

Stroll at Beihai Park

Beihai Park is one of the most beloved gardens in Beijing. It is an imperial garden with plenty of flowers, pavilions, ponds and more. Some of the buildings in the park date back to ancient China. It is highly favored by the locals, so take this as an opportunity to observe how the locals enjoy this stunning 71 hectare park.