The Atlas Obscura Guide To

Beijing

24 Cool, Hidden, and Unusual Things to Do in Beijing, China

Updated January 24, 2020

Unusual Attractions in Beijing

The Forbidden City

The most famous location in China was home to whole dynasties worth of imperial rulers.

Great Wall of China Slide

Why walk on this historical site when you can zoom down instead?

China Watermelon Museum

This Chinese museum proves that it's a watermelon world, we're all just living in it.

Ming Dynasty Tombs

Ming Dynasty necropolis raided during the Cultural Revolution.

798 Art District

This probably wasn't what Mao had in mind.

The World Park

Beijing's World Park offers the excitement of international sites without the travel.

Destination Club

A progressive LGBTQ hub offers dancing, HIV testing, art, and more.

Dongyue Temple

This sensational Chinese temple walks visitors through the 76 weird departments of the afterlife.

See All 24 Things to Do in Beijing See All 24 Places

Want to see fewer ads? Become a Member.

Cool Places to Eat & Drink in Beijing

China Watermelon Museum

This Chinese museum proves that it's a watermelon world, we're all just living in it.

In partnership with KAYAK

Plan Your Trip

In partnership with Get Your Guide

Guided Tours Nearby

Atlas Obscura Trips

Springtime in Eastern China: Exploring the Birthplace of Tea

From bustling night markets to fine-dining institutions, this journey down China’s east coast reveals the story of countless delicious dishes and culinary traditions.

Explore Beijing, China

Launch Map

Beijing Leaderboard

Places Added

Places Edited

Places Visited

Recent Beijing Activity

allykat2496 wants to go to Great Wall of China Slide

worldtraveler24 has been to Chairman Mao Memorial Hall

lewiswashere wants to go to Great Wall of China Slide

Robin has been to 798 Art District

Robin has been to Ming Dynasty Tombs

Stories About Beijing

Today nearly 7,000 Père David's deer roam the wetlands of China.

The French Missionary and the English Duke Who Saved a Chinese Deer From Extinction

A conservation tale 120 years in the telling.

January 24, 2020

A hairy monkey diorama made by Ying Li, showing a picnic in the park and a vendor selling pumpkins.

How Chinese Artisans Turn Dead Cicadas Into ‘Hairy Monkeys’

These traditional handicrafts require exoskeletons, magnolia buds, and a steady hand.

December 19, 2019

Want to see fewer ads? Become a Member.