Beijing was formerly called Peking (and Beiping, Dadu, and Yanjing!) and is the unmissable capital of China. Its history stretches back millennia, but the modern history ‘just’ 2500 years or so.

Here is a city of contrasts – modern glass skyscrapers can be found within sight of ancient temples. There are parks and gardens and choked traffic, tai chi in the morning and a rushhour… rush. Best explored on foot and by bike you’ll want to head to the city’s must sees – Tiananmen Square, the Forbidden City, the incredible Temple of Heaven (look out for the famously-round Prayer Hall for Good Harvests) and take trip out to the Great Wall (head to Mutianyu or Simatai for a slightly less-crowded experience).

There’s a multitude of other attractions including the Lama Temple, Beihai Park, the Summer Palace (up there with the Forbidden City on most people’s checklist) and a night at the Peking opera.

Beijing is the perfect introduction to China – it’s people are warm and intriguing, the language confusing and the food awesome! What better way to start?