One of the most popular destinations of China is Beijing - the capital city. Also known as Peking, it is located at the north-western part of China, near BoHai. Being ranked as one of the world's predominant cities; Beijing has been a city of dreams; with the help of modernisation and the growth in economy in China

Beijing covers an area of about 16,800 square kilometres; about two-thirds of the land are hills and only one-third are flatlands. The major rivers that pass through this city are the YongDing and the ChaoBai River. The weather in Beijing is generally cold all year round. The average temperature in winter is around minus - 4 degrees, while in summer can reach 26 degrees the highest. The rainfall averages 635mms yearly.

The population of Beijing today is over 13 million people, with around half of these people living in small cities and towns near Beijing. The city has a low birth and death rate, so overpopulation is not a big problem.

Modernisation of China during the past 3-4 decades has helped its economy. The city of Beijing had the role to start industrial, commercial, transport, trade, and cultural and scientific development for their country. It has now become the 2nd largest industrial centre in China, with rapid establishment of major industries. More people are employed and a range of products such as food, cotton, textiles and clothing, paper, electronic goods and chemicals are manufactured in Beijing. New buildings, roads and other constructions are also developing.

The city has improved trade, communications and transport systems for China, with the construction of railroads that connect to other cities. Shopping is another feature in Beijing, as large department stores and businesses are crowded by many people, such as WangFuChing Street.

Beijing is well known for its Arts and traditional handicraft items, like carpet weaving, ivory, jade carvings and sculptures. They are also internationally renowned for their Beijing/Peking Operas and architecture.

The history of Beijing dates back to many centuries ago. It went through many revolutionaries, dynasties, demonstrations and the establishment of the people's republic. Beijing was always the centre of major political events in China.
There are many attractions in Beijing, and is rich in historic sites. For example...
 
TianMen Square, which is the world's biggest square and place for gathering and is commonly famous for its student demonstrations and revolutionary movements.
 
The Forbidden City, which is the biggest palace in the world. This was the place where emperors of the Ming and Qing dynasties lived.
 
There are many places to visit in Beijing, such as the BeiHai Park, Imperial Palace, Summer Palace, Temple of Heaven and the Beijing University - just to name a few...

Although Beijing is the 2nd largest city in China after ShangHai, it is still an important piece of China. It is one of the most beautiful cities in the world with a unique culture to anywhere else. Without Beijing, we would not have today's China - a modernised, developed and a peaceful country...