Dongcheng DistrictLocated on the eastern side of Beijing, travelers will find Tian An Men – the main entrance to the Imperial City. This District also boasts Ghost Street, where more than 200 restaurants line, and red lanterns light, the mile-long thoroughfare, from Dongzhimen Bridge to Jiaodaokou Dongdajie.
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Looking for a RevolutionFor travelers wanting an inside look at how China has changed from the days of the Cultural Revolution or the student protests of 1989, they should visit the controversial Tian An Men Square. Tian An Men (gate to heavenly peace) was originally erected in the 1400s. Since then, this location has become a rally site for Beijing citizens. It is also part of a large park, filled with many activities (if you're lucky, you'll see some beautiful
Chinese kites floating in the sky and other forms of entertainment.
If you're an early riser, go to Tian An Men Square at sunrise to watch a flag ceremony that takes place every morning (Times vary according to the season/sunrise; Between 5 and 6 a.m.).
Tian An Men Square
Tian An Men Di Tie Dong Zhan, Dongcheng District
Subway Stop: Line 2 Tian An Men East, Exit A
Go Fly a KiteDating back to nearly 300 BC, the first kite originated in China, fashioned by the creativity of a Chinese philosopher. After passing down the craft to an apprentice who improved the kite's construction, the Chinese military took notice. Under the military's adoption, kites gauged wind force, sent signals to troops and even lifted soldiers above enemy troops for better arrow aim.
It would be nearly 1,000 years later, following the introduction of paper, before kites would become more of a past time rather than a wartime activity.
Originally just simple rectangles, kite design evolved as more and more Chinese adopted the hobby. Today's kites feature complex, 3D shapes most often decorated to honor religious and ceremonial holidays. Kite making continues to flourish in China, particularly as the Chinese believe that kites ward off evil spirits and bring good luck.
Understanding China's HistoryLocated on the south end of Tian An Men Square, the memorial Hall of Chairman Mao was constructed in 1978 to commemorate the founder of P.R. China. Entrance is free to get a glimpse into the life of Chairman Mao and see his mummified body. This free museum, however, is only open in the morning, Monday through Saturday. All you need to do is show your ID.
Punk it OutCheck out a punk show at Beijing’s newest punk venue, MAO Live House. Shows run nightly (with few exceptions) in the summer and tickets cost between $4 and $7. Bring cash as this venue is cash-only.
MAO Live
Gulóu Dong Dàjie 111 Hào, Dongcheng District
Phone: +86-10-6402-5080
Subway Stop: Line 5 Beixinqiao, Exit D
American Food & Rooftop Views Resting between the giant red Drum Tower and the Bell Tower, travelers can enjoy a drink and American food (cheeseburgers, fries and ice cream) while lounging on sofas surrounded by wood furniture and ceilings at the Drum & Bell. And, for a great view of the hutongs, go to the rooftop of this establishment. Free wireless is also available and major credit cards are accepted.
Drum & Bell
Dongchéngqu Zhonglóu Wan Hútòng 41 Hào, Dongcheng District
Phone: +86-10-8403-3600
Subway Stop: Line 5 Beixinqiao, Exit D
Little Sheep, Hot Pot Eat a mutton hot pot with a rich broth in the aptly named Little Sheep Hot Pot. While this chain of restaurants can be found across the United States, Canada and Japan, the mutton is imported from inner Mongolia. Unlike traditional Chinese hot pot restaurants, patrons don't need to use peanut sauce for flavor for their food here – the broth is already very hearty and flavorful. Open 24 hours, patrons can expect to pay about $15 for two people for dinner.
Little Sheep Hot Pot
Dongcheng Qu Dongzhimen Nei Da Jie Gui Jie 209 Hao, Dongcheng District
Phone: +86-10-8400-1669
Subway Stop: Line 5 Beixinqiao, Exit D
Observing History One of the most precious and well-preserved historical sites in the city is the Beijing Ancient Observatory. It was built in 1442 in the Ming Dynasty and there are still eight instruments on display that are more than 500 years old. Entry into this observatory runs less than $5.
I'm In the Mood for ArtOne of the largest and best art museums in China is the National Art Museum, located in the DongCheng District of the city. Filled with more than 60,000 original pieces of artwork, many collections feature modern and contemporary masterpieces. When you're in Beijing, visit the National Art Museum's Web site to learn about current exhibitions. Entrance price is 20 RMB (a couple of dollars) and the museum is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. (although you can't enter the museum after 4 p.m.).
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