BEIJING
THE CITY:
Beijing is the capital of the most populous country in the world, the People's
Republic of China. With a population of 21.5 million people, it is the nation's second-
largest city after Shanghai. It was also the seat of the Ming and Qing dynasty
emperors until the formation of a republic in 1911. Beijing is the political,
educational and cultural centre of the country and as such it is rich in historical sites
and important government and cultural institutions.
The city is marked by its flatness and arid climate. There are only three hills to be
found in the city limits (in Jingshan Park to the north of Forbidden City) and
mountains surround the capital on three sides. Like the configuration of the
Forbidden City, Beijing has concentric "ring roads", which are actually rectangular,
that go around the metropolis and serve as good reference points as one attempts to
move about the city. Beyond the ring roads are the most-visited portions of the Great
Wall of China, which witnesses visitors the world over and Beijing serves as a good
headquarters for those who wish to gaze upon one of mankind's more memorable
and lasting structures.
TO CUSTOMIZE YOUR JOURNEY CALL : (800) 420-5993
CHINA: BEIJING