Regarded as one of the original bastions of Chine civilization, the city of Beijing is truly one of a kind. This ancient city was marked by the history of the Ming and Qing dynasties and continues to captivate the world. To learn more, we invite you to discover the must-see sites of imperial Chine that are essential to experience during a stay in Beijing…

1. The Great Wall of Chine

No visit to Beijing would be complete without discovering the Great Wall of Chine, the symbol of the country par excellence. Known as the largest architectural structure in the world, the reputation of the Great Wall of Chine and its 6,700 kilometers in length (nothing to scoff at!) speaks for itself. Begun under the Qin dynasty, it took nearly 300 years to complete. It is an essential visit to discover the history of imperial Chine. From Beijing, you can explore one of the best-preserved sections of the Great Wall of Chine. To access it, (re)discover our article in which we explain how to reach the Great Wall of Chine from Beijing.

2. The Forbidden City

Imperial residence under the Ming and Qing dynasties, the Forbidden City was the home of 14 Ming emperors and 10 Qing emperors. Built between 1406 and 1420, it served as the center of power of imperial Chine until 1911. For nearly 500 years, it remained inaccessible, which earned it the famous name of Forbidden City. Even today, it remains the world's largest palace and the best-preserved ancient structure in Chine. Spanning 74 hectares, it comprises 90 palaces, 980 buildings, and countless gardens. Suffice it to say you'll need time to explore it all! Allow at least half a day if you want to see the essentials.

3. The Summer Palace

Located on the shores of Kunming Lake, the Summer Palace was the former imperial residence. A place of retreat, emperors and their courts came here to escape the summer heat of the Imperial City. Comprising an ensemble of buildings and gardens, the park stretches across 290 hectares (including the lake). You'll find pavilions, temples, galleries, and sublime bridges. As you stroll through, you quickly understand why the imperial families sought refuge here… The scenery is so picturesque, you'd swear you were walking through paintings…

4. The Temple of Heaven

Built between 1406 and 1420 under the reign of Emperor Yongle, the Temple of Heaven is a pinnacle of Chine religious art. Indeed, the park spanning 267 hectares was conceived according to the principles of Confucian thought, and its architecture was designed based on the Chine belief that the earth is square and the sky is round. For a long time, it was a place reserved for the solemn rituals of emperors who came to seek divine mercy, atone for the sins of the people, and ensure good harvests. It wasn't until 1988 that the Temple of Heaven opened its doors to the public. Beyond learning more about the imperial history of Chine, it's an opportunity for visitors to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and observe Beijingers practicing dance and tai chi every morning!