COOL THINGS IN JAPAN YOU MUST SEE
The best was to see Beijing’s hutong, or narrow alleyways, is in a rickshaw. Most rickshaws are motorized now. There are central rickshaw rental locations at the Drum and Bell Tower and Beihai Park.
These are the traditional style Chinese homes that have been around for centuries. A much more authentic experience than the local standard hotel.
Wangfujing is a major pedestrian shopping street. A few yuan (Chinese currency) will get you a steaming plate of spicy dumplings. They also have a very interesting variety of food specialties including scorpions.
This art district is about 5 square blocks of reclaimed factory space converted to an art venue. They have special exhibits, nice restaurants, shops selling unique pieces of art, souvenir shops and a funky vibe.
One of the most fun experiences I’ve ever had was dressing up with one of the attendants at the Forbidden City and pretending to be members of the ancient Royal Court.
A short walk from the Forbidden City is Beihai Lake Park. It’s beautiful during the day with its gardens and graceful curved Chinese bridges. But at night it really rocks with clubs featuring all kinds of music.