Beijing

27 January 2009 @ 11:56 pm EDT

Rich in history and a city of impressive scale, Beijing offers a spectacular and fascinating introduction to China.

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By Marcelo Prais/ Flickr

Entering the once-hidden world of the vast Forbidden City through its towering gates, intimidating walls and exquisite architecture is a highlight of China experience. Walk across the dramatic spaces of Tiananmen Square, admire the peak of Ming Dynasty architecture amongst the elegant curves, green parkland and wide avenues of the

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By Saad S. Fayoumi/Flickr

Temple of Heaven, and escape the Beijing bustle in the gardens and lakeside pavilions of the Summer Palace, surrounded by sweeping arched bridges, hilltop temples, galleries and courtyards and royal residences. And no voyager ever forgets the exhilaration of walking the Great Wall as it winds its ancient path across the ruggedhills to the north of the city.

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Beijing is not just about monumental grandeur. Join us for a stroll through Liu Lichang to find a replica antique (or perhaps the real thing?), explore the hutongs where reminders of the old Beijing still survive, or join a chi gong group exercising on the footpath at sunrise.

And after building up an appetite, feast on the city’s famed roast duck at a historic

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By mambo1935/Flickr

restaurant, or perhaps join your tour leader for a hearty bowl of Beijing noodles or a Mongolian hotpot. Finish the evening with aperformance of the Beijing Opera or Acrobatics. If shopping’s your passion you won’t be able to escape the temptations of the famous Silk Market …

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