How to Make Full Use of 144-Hour Visa-Free Transit in Beijing

Hey, dear friends, do you want to immerse yourself in Beijing's ancient charm and modern flair within 144 hours? This super practical guide will take you through the streets and alleys of Beijing, exploring all the must-see attractions!

Starting from November 2023, visitors from 54 countries can enjoy the 144-hour visa-free transit policy! As long as you have a valid passport and booked connecting flights within 144 hours, you can roam around Beijing and feel its pulse.

Palace Museum: Back to the Ming and Qing Dynasties

Route: Visitors can enter through the Meridian Gate (Wumen) and leave from the Gate of Divine Prowess (Shenwumen), and tour major palaces such as the Hall of Supreme Harmony and the Palace of Heavenly Purity along the central axis.

Recommended time: At least half a day, preferably in the morning, to avoid crowds at peak time.

Ticket: (combined ticket) CNY 60 in peak season and CNY 40 in off-season. Tickets must be booked in advance. Reservations start at 20:00, seven days before the visit. The Palace Museum (Forbidden City) is closed every Monday throughout the year except for statutory holidays.

Travel guide: Tian'anmendong, Subway Line 1.

Tian'anmen Square: Feel the Heartbeats of China

Route: Visitors can start from the southern end of the square and head north for a view of the Forbidden City in the distance.

Recommended time: 1-2 hours, best enjoyed in the soft morning or evening light, perfect for photography.

Ticket: Free admission. Reservations are required 1-9 days in advance.

Travel guide: Tian'anmenxi, Subway Line 1.

Great Wall: Wonder of the World

Route: Badaling or Mutianyu section is recommended. You can travel by cable car or hiking.

Recommended time: 1 day. Depart early in the morning for optimal experience and return in the afternoon.

Ticket:  CNY 40 for Badaling or Mutianyu in peak season. Reservations can be made up to 15 days in advance.

Travel guide: S2 train, bus No. 877 or high-speed rail to Badaling; tour bus or self-drive to Mutianyu.

Summer Palace: Strolling through the Imperial Garden

Route: Visitors can enter through the East Palace Gate and tour the Long Corridor, Tower of Buddhist Incense and Kunming Lake.

Recommended time: Half a day to a full day.

Ticket: CNY 30 in peak season, and CNY 20 in off-season. Tickets can be purchased 1-7 days in advance.

Travel guide: Xi Yuan or Beigongmen, Subway Line 4.

Sanlitun: Fashion Clusters

Route: Visitors can explore the surrounding fashion shops, bars, restaurants, and art spaces from Taikoo Li.

Recommended time: Evening, especially on weekends, when Sanlitun comes alive with its vibrant nightlife.

Ticket: The business district is open to the public. No tickets required.

Travel guide: Tuanjiehu, Subway Line 10, within walking distance to Taikoo Li, Sanlitun.

798 Art District: Collision of Creativity and Art

Route: Free tour to galleries and art studios.

Recommended time: Half a day. It is recommended to go on weekdays to avoid crowds.

Ticket: Admission is free, but some exhibitions may have entry fees.

Travel guide: Wangjing Nan (S) or Jiangtai, Subway Line 14.

Food experience: From Peking Duck to Zhajiangmian (noodles with fried bean sauce), and from Douzhi (fermented bean drink) to Luzhu (wheaten cake boiled in meat broth), Beijing offers countless surprising flavor combinations to delight your taste buds.

Hutong tour: Explore old alleys like Nanluoguxiang by riding a human-powered tricycle, immersing yourself in the charm of ancient Beijing.

Cultural experience: Participate in cultural activities such as Peking Opera and tea ceremonies to deeply understand Beijing's rich cultural heritage.

Shopping hubs: Visit shopping districts like Wangfujing and Xidan to purchase unique souvenirs.

From ancient palaces to modern art districts, from bustling business hubs to tranquil gardens, every facet of Beijing is worth exploring. Plan your Beijing trip today!