things to do in beijing

Explore Beijing like a local, and visit spots like its arts district. (Photo: Alamy)

Tips + Trends

Eat, Drink and Get Your Groove on: An Insider’s Guide to Beijing

The iconic skyline of China’s capital shows off the mix between old and new in bustling Beijing. With landmark skyscrapers set alongside ancient temples and imperial palaces, the city has long been an epicenter of innovation. W Beijing – Chang’an Insider Jill Jiao reveals a secret path to the city’s authentic and modern sights, exploring the many cultures of Beijing.

EAT

Duck de Chine

Widely recognized for serving some of the city’s best roast duck, this stylish restaurant is extremely popular among both locals and expats and a must when visiting the capital. Check out the stunning dim sum lunch offer for a great value.

Lost Heaven

Think authentic China chic with a twist on Yunnanese cuisine and fabulous drinks designed by head mixologist A Wei (one of China’s top ten bartenders). The food will take you on a journey across the ancient Tea Horse Road, with dishes from Dali and Lijiang.

Temple Restaurant Beijing (TRB)

Fancy a meal in a 600 year old temple? TRB brings contemporary European cuisine and fine wines to a very unique setting, fit for Beijing’s socialites and global foodies. A sensory ecstasy awaits.

The Georg

The Georg has been a game changer since it secretly opened in 2015. This stunningly designed restaurant is located on the banks of the Jade River near Houhai. Serving a very creative New Nordic cuisine, The Georg is part of the Georg Jensen Hus, a multi-disciplinary brand house featuring the restaurant and a showroom/gallery.

DRINK

Janes & Hooch

A heavyweight in the cocktail scene since opening in 2012, this classy two-floor dive keeps raising the bar. Glamorously tricked out in wood paneling, leather banquettes, and polished concrete floors, it’s the perfect place to sip on a rare single-malt or a crafted cocktail.

Moonshine

An up-market and radiating prohibition-era chic cocktail bar, with highly-skilled bartenders shaking things up every evening. Don’t miss the Paloma Fresca – a must try!

GROOVE

Migas

A Mediterranean-inspired oasis in the busy metropolis, Migas is home to the city’s most stunning roof lounge and cocktail bar. The intimately sized dance floor has international stars and local names DJing the spot from dusk till dawn.

Lantern

A set of stairs leads you down into an underground cavern, opens only on weekends, it is set to be a mix of Beijing promoters playing every electronic genre people can dance to.

Spark

If what you’re looking for is Beijing’s version of an international nightclub, then head to Spark. Committed to flying in DJs from across the world and setting a platform for local artists to perform, this place will give you a glimpse of the hardcore party crowd in the capital.

SEE

798 Art District

Wander around and discover the scene of local designers in the neighborhood of old state-owned factories that have been turned into happening cultural spaces integrating design, fashion, architecture and art.

Nanluoguxiang

A well-preserved ancient part of town with traditional and authentic architecture. Nanluoguxiang features several kilometers of shops, galleries and cafés that range from high-end to kitsch. Street food vendors appear at night when it’s truly buzzing and vibrant.

SHOP

Brand New China (BNC)

Brand New China (BNC) is a fashionable boutique that carries apparel, accessories and furniture from over 100 designers. The owner, Hong Huang, a Chinese entrepreneur and celebrity, spares no effort to curate a forward-thinking collection of Chinese talent.

Dong Liang Studios

Established in Beijing a few years ago with a singular focus on stocking and promoting the work of China’s up-and-coming designers, Dong Liang Studios has developed a reputation as a go-to boutique for the fashion-forward.