Inspired by a song, a journey to a city

“I love Beijing Tiananmen, the sun rises above Tiananmen, the great leader Chairman Mao, guides us forward…” Whenever I hear this song, "I Love Beijing Tiananmen," vivid images of Beijing's solemn yet charming scenes come to mind, filling me with longing😃. In February, accompanied by this familiar melody, embark on a journey to Beijing. 🚩Day 1: First Impressions of Ancient Charm ▫️Morning: Tiananmen Square (Free) Step into Tiananmen Square, where the valiant figure of the National Flag Guard and the rising five-star red flag evoke a surge of patriotism and reverence. The Monument to the People's Heroes stands tall, and the Chairman Mao Memorial Hall exudes solemnity, immersing you in the weight of history. 📸Take a classic photo with Tiananmen Gate as the backdrop to capture this exciting moment. ▫️Lunch: Zhajiangmian Restaurant near Dashilan Enjoy a bowl of authentic Beijing Zhajiangmian. The fragrant meat sauce, chewy noodles, and refreshing cucumber and bean sprouts create a symphony of flavors. Mix well and take a big bite to savor the true taste of Beijing. ▫️Afternoon: The Palace Museum (ticketed) Enter the Forbidden City, a world of red walls, yellow tiles, and golden splendor. The palace buildings are magnificent. Explore along the central axis, where the Hall of Supreme Harmony, Hall of Central Harmony, and Hall of Preserving Harmony showcase imperial majesty. The East and West Six Palaces hold countless stories, allowing you to traverse time and engage with history. ▫️Evening: Jingshan Park (ticketed) Ascend Jingshan Hill for a panoramic view of the Forbidden City and Beijing's central axis. Bathed in the golden glow of sunset, the entire city transforms into a breathtaking spectacle. 🚩Day 2: A Journey of Cultural Exploration ▫️Morning: Badaling Great Wall (ticketed) Journey to the Badaling Great Wall. Despite the biting wind, the Great Wall's grandeur remains undiminished. Climb the ancient stone steps, passing watchtowers nestled among the mountains. Gaze into the distance at the rolling hills, and appreciate the wisdom and resilience of the ancients. 📸At Heroes' Slope, take a heroic photo with the Great Wall as your backdrop, showcasing your "heroic" spirit. ▫️Lunch: Farmhouse Restaurant at the foot of the Great Wall Try the iron pot stew. Chicken, ribs, and other ingredients simmered in a large iron pot create an irresistible aroma. Paired with whole grains, it's a warming and satisfying meal. ▫️Afternoon: National Museum of China (Free) Enter the National Museum and be captivated by the vast collection of cultural relics. From ancient stone tools to modern calligraphy and paintings, it comprehensively showcases Chinese civilization, offering a journey through time and a cultural feast. ▫️Evening: Wangfujing Pedestrian Street As night falls, Wangfujing comes alive, bustling with activity. Here, you'll find goods from around the world, as well as time-honored brands like Quanjude and Donglaishun. Savor Peking duck and Mongolian hot pot, and experience the city's vibrant energy. 🚩Day 3: Experiencing Local Customs ▫️Morning: Shichahai Area (Free) Visit Shichahai, where the ice surface gleams like a mirror, perfect for ice skating and frolicking. Wander through the surrounding hutongs, lined with traditional courtyard houses, and soak in the laid-back atmosphere and local life of old Beijing. 📸On Yinding Bridge, capture a quintessential Beijing photo with the lake and hutongs as your backdrop. ▫️Lunch: Huguosi Street Snack Shop Indulge in a Douzhi Jiaoquan set meal, along with snacks like Ai Wo Wo and Lü Da Gun, to experience the unique culinary culture of old Beijing. ▫️Afternoon: Nanluoguxiang (Free) Explore the charming Nanluoguxiang, filled with unique shops. Choose Beijing crafts like Rabbit God figurines and Peking Opera masks as souvenirs. Souvenirs: Rabbit God figurines, Peking Opera masks, Peking duck. 🏡Accommodation Recommendations: ▪️Waldorf Astoria Beijing (High-end, excellent location, superior service) ▪️Homestays near Qianmen (Cost-effective, close to many attractions) 💡Tips: 1️⃣Beijing in February is cold and dry. Dress warmly in layers and bring lip balm. 2️⃣Book tickets in advance for attractions like Tiananmen Square and the Forbidden City, and arrive at the designated time. 3️⃣If you're not accustomed to the sour taste of Douzhi, try a small amount first. Inspired by this song, embark on this wonderful journey to Beijing💕, and let the city's charm captivate your heart.