Overview Destination

Ancient splendour in a modern megacity

Beijing, China

Northern capital – that’s what Beijing literally means. Not the most exciting name for a remarkable city that’s dominated China for centuries. Beijing is now the political centre of the Communist state but the long-gone Ming and Qing dynasties are still alive, at least in their imperial palaces, temples and a certain Great Wall. The modern world, from the Olympic Stadium to glitzy shopping malls, are a fascinating counterpoint to those treasures of the past. What are you waiting for?

Navigate the Forbidden City

With its 900-plus buildings and vast dimensions, this city within a city can be rather forbidding to explore. But don’t worry. With Cosa you’ll discover that there’s more to the Forbidden City than huge walls and great halls, as remarkable as they are. We’ll take you back to the gilded age when emperors sat on the Dragon Throne.

See the Temple of Heaven

First things first: the Temple of Heaven is a park not a building, even if that striking circular hall has come to symbolise the whole place. The emperor came here twice a year to pray for a good harvest. Imperial history aside, this park is great for people-watching, with tai chi, dancing and often singing on offer.

Rummage in Beijing’s markets

Of course, you can buy lustrous pearls in the Pearl Market and lavish fabrics on Silk Street, but what can you find in Panjiayuan Market? Almost everything, that’s what. This is Beijing’s biggest and best flea/antiques market with over 3,000 stalls at the weekend. Whether it’s jewellery or pottery, you’ll find something you love.

Walk the Great Wall

One hour from Beijing and you can be standing on one of the most impressive structures ever built. Nothing quite matches that first moment on the Great Wall, especially if you have it almost all to yourself. Our guides know how to avoid the big crowds on the Great Wall so that you can walk on it in peace.

Essential Beijing

Shanghai might be bigger but Beijing is still home to 21 million people. Not too surprising given that it’s been the capital of China for centuries, and the complete centre of power since the creation of the People’s Republic in 1949. From the vast open space of Tiananmen Square to crowded alleys in the markets, Beijing will captivate you at every turn. It’s a big city with masses to see but we’ll help you find your way round. We can tailor your trip to include whatever you want, so get in touch.

where it is

Where it is

East Asia

When to go

When to go

Spring and autumn

Why go there

Why go there

Imperial history
Great shopping
Star attractions

what to see

What to see

Forbidden City
Great Wall
Panjiayuan Market

Beijing