Parks & Gardens

Parks Despite the smoggy summers and freezing winters, Beijingers live their lives in the open. This can be seen in the old hutongs and in the many parks. A fetish for exercise (particularly among the over 30s) and a culture of communal living mean that open spaces are invariably crowded with people playing cards, making…

Botanical Gardens

Just to the north west of the city lie the Western Hills, a favourite relaxation spot for the rich and powerful of the last 500 years. It is here, just outside the city limits, that visitors can get a glimpse of the sheer beauty of China’s wildlife. The air tastes fresher and the views are…