Exploring Beijing: A Journey Through Diverse Cultures and History

If you’re like me and love diving into a city's cultural depth, and you have a strong interest in architectural art and the history of its streets, then this route filled with rich historical vibes is definitely for you. From modern to ancient, from Chinese to Western styles, from poetry to religion, this journey covers the diverse cultures of Beijing. If you happen to visit in fall, I highly recommend taking this trip, as the streets and alleys dressed in autumn colors are breathtakingly beautiful, making you feel particularly immersed in the experience as the autumn breeze blows by.

Recommended Route: Fuchengmen ➡️ Luxun Museum ➡️ Gongmenkou Community ➡️ White Pagoda Temple ➡️ Temple of the Emperors ➡️ Zhengyang Bookstore ➡️ Xishiku Church ➡️ Beihai Park

Luxun Museum: Echoes of History

Stepping into the Luxun Museum feels like opening the echoes of history. It showcases the life stories of Mr. Luxun at different stages of his life. Whether it's his manuscripts or snippets of his writings, even just a few words feel significant and thought-provoking. Some of his words still hit hard today, retaining their power.

Visiting here is free, but you need to book in advance online, so it's better to arrive early. This free spot gets busy if you come too late, and the calm atmosphere is perfect for a deep appreciation. If you’re into literature and history, take some time to engage with Mr. Luxun’s words.

Opening Hours: 09:00-16:00 (last entry at 15:30)
Ticket Info: Free (reservation required)

The Serenity and Cuisine of White Pagoda Temple

Next up is Miaoying Temple's White Pagoda, not only a landmark on the high ground opposite Beihai Park but also an important symbol of Tibetan Buddhism. I personally like the Gongmenkou Community nearby; the alleys are peaceful and cozy, with many unique cafes and shops. Some small restaurants even have terraces on the second floor, making it a perfect spot for those who love taking photos while enjoying a view of the towering pagoda.

It's also a great place to leisurely explore. Just like me, find a nice little café and relax, without rushing your itinerary. Especially during autumn nights, with the cool breeze flowing through Beijing's gray alleys, you'll feel that this serene atmosphere is worth the visit.

Opening Hours: 09:00-17:00 (last entry at 16:30)
Ticket Info: ¥20

The Ancient Charm of the Temple of the Emperors

The Temple of the Emperors is one of the lesser-known but most surprising spots on the entire journey. The courtyard isn’t large, and there are very few visitors, making it a fantastic place for photo enthusiasts. The architecture of the main hall exudes character — while some joke that it’s a “substitute for the Forbidden City,” it has its own unique charm, especially the coffered ceiling inside, which is definitely worth seeing.

The overall pace is comfortable, and just sitting idle in the courtyard gives you a feel of being in a historical corner. But be aware that it’s closed on Mondays and Tuesdays, so plan accordingly.

Opening Hours: Wednesday to Sunday 09:00-16:30 (last entry at 16:00)
Ticket Info: ¥20

Reading Time at Zhengyang Bookstore

Zhengyang Bookstore is a must-visit cultural highlight on this route. Though it’s not large, the courtyard’s atmosphere is exquisite, especially that brick tower with a sloping roof, often accompanied by a plump cat lounging around. The bookstore mainly features literature and history related to Beijing, which is quite fascinating and even made me lose track of time.

Moreover, there are various old-style family motto boards in the courtyard. When there are few people around, reading the texts on these boards feels like a journey back to an old Beijing courtyard, allowing you to quietly appreciate the wisdom of past generations.

Opening Hours: Daily 09:00-20:00

Architectural Charm of Xishiku Church

When you reach Xishiku Church, you finally experience the stunning impact of Gothic architecture. The church boasts a classic European style, with huge, colorful stained glass windows that tempt you to linger a bit longer. What stands out the most is the blend of Eastern and Western designs — the sides feature Chinese pagoda-style pavilions, creating a unique cultural fusion that feels both familiar and foreign.

The interior of the church is open for free, but it’s respectful to dress modestly; shorts and skirts may not be appropriate. If you forget to bring a scarf, you can borrow one from the volunteers.

Opening Hours: Monday to Saturday 09:00-17:00; Sunday 09:00-19:00
Ticket Info: Free

Natural Scenery at Beihai Park

The last stop on this route is Beihai Park, which is undoubtedly classic and wouldn’t need much more explanation. No matter when you visit, Beihai never disappoints. If it happens to be autumn, the ginkgo trees around the lake are covered in golden leaves, while the red maples add a fiery touch amidst the fog, creating an incredibly romantic scene. The best activity here is definitely boating. I recommend going in the late afternoon, around five or six, when it’s cooler and you might catch a glimpse of the sunset if conditions are right.

Opening Hours:
April 1 - October 31: 06:00-21:00 (last entry at 20:30)
November 1 - March 31: 06:30-20:00 (last entry at 19:30)
Ticket Info: Varies based on the park’s arrangements.

Useful Tips: Things to Note

To enjoy this route smoothly, it’s important to know these tips:

• Opening Days: Many venues are closed on Mondays, including the Temple of the Emperors, which is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays. Be sure to check ahead.
• Dress Code: When visiting churches and temples, try to avoid revealing clothing like shorts and skirts.
• Pacing Your Journey: This route has many points of interest, so if you want to enjoy everything, manage your time well and don’t try to squeeze in too much.
• Costs: Some venues are free, but there are also paid entrances, so remember to bring some loose change or have a QR code payment method ready.

After a full day of exploring, I think you’ll gather plenty of experiences without feeling exhausted. I especially recommend this during autumn — it’s a must-visit!