Step Back in Time at Beijing – a Historic Paradise
Beijing has developed into a modernised city with a futuristic vision, glistening skyscrapers and contemporary attractions; nevertheless, the city still bursts with historic charm. Beijing has an extraordinary past which dates back to over 3000 years, and visitors will be truly enchanted by the sight-seeing opportunities in Beijing, from palaces and temples to hutong alleyways which are all important to the city’s heritage. Brightsun Travel offers cheap flight offers to Beijing, so you can explore what is renowned as one of the world’s top historical destinations. Below is a brief insight into the city’s grand historical attractions which allow you step back in time and discover treasures of Beijing’s past.
The Forbidden City
The Forbidden City is China’s most significant monument and best preserved structure, dating back to the early 1400’s. The stunning palace complex is a UNESCO World Heritage Site which once served as residence to 24 Ming and Qing emperors. Surrounding and protecting the Forbidden City is a 10m high wall, as well as a moat. The Forbidden City is the largest ancient palatial structure in the world, with a unique grandeur and traditional Chinese architecture amongst an array of buildings which include halls, bridges, gates, temples, pavilions and court yards.
Beihai Park
Located a short distance from Forbidden City, Beihai Park is one of the Beijing’s oldest surviving ancient imperial gardens. This beautiful park has a history of over 1000 years. It was originally built during the Liao Dynasty, and it was repaired and rebuilt during the Jin, Yuan, Ming and Qing dynasties. The park was opened to the public in 1925 and it offers visitors an array of scenic gardens to stroll around, a large stunning lake and important historic structures, temples and palaces to marvel at including a large white Buddhist Pagoda.
The Great Wall of China
A trip to Beijing would not be the same without a visit to the grand Great Wall of China – China’s most famous site. This iconic landmark is not just one great wall, but a series of many ancient walls and fortifications that are zig zagged along China’s historical borders and northern mountains. The Great Wall of China was originally constructed under the Emperor Qin Shi Huang over 2,000 years ago to protect the country from invasion, and many rulers and dynasties contributed to its construction over different centuries.
The Summer Palace
The Summer Palace is the world’s best preserved imperial garden, representative of traditional Chinese gardens and architecture. This royal complex was first constructed in 1750 by Qing emperor Qianlong, and it was used as a retreat for emperors. It was destroyed by invaders in 1960 and afterwards restored with original elements in 1886. The 290-acre Summer Palace boasts old pavilions, temples, bridges, hills and the stunning Kunming Lake, so it has a plenty of historic appeal, natural beauty and immense hilltop views.
The Temple of Heaven
Constructed in 1420, the grand Temple of Heaven served as a place of worship for emperors of the Ming and Qing dynasties who would pray to Heaven for a good harvest. This architectural masterpiece covers an area of 273 hectares and consists of ancient shrines, temples and lush grassland, set out within two sections which together symbolise heaven and earth. This architectural masterpiece is one of Beijing’s holiest temples, and it was inscribed onto the World Heritage List in 1998.
Flights
Brightsun Travel offers cheap air tickets to Beijing, taking you to the heart of this historic haven. Contact us today to find out about our extensive range of flight offers that suit all travel tastes and budgets.
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