“Bi” and “Bo”. Does this sound like the start of a secret code? Actually it’s how to pronounce Bibo. We are standing before the scenic spot called Bibo. It means \u78a7\u6ce2\u89c2\u9c7c.
Beijing is an ancient city. Its history stretches back 3000 years. That makes it as old as London. Beijing is six times older than New York. It’s even ten times older than Sydney.
For over 700 years China has been ruled from Beijing. Beijing has served as the capital for six notable Chinese governments. You can find abundant historical and cultural heritage here.
Beijing has had many names. Before 1403 the city was known as Jicheng. It was also called Yanjing and Nanjing. Other names included Zhongdu and Dadu. Beiping was another name. Beijing means Northern Capital. It’s the city’s 16th name.
Beijing is home to seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites. These include the Great Wall. Also the Forbidden City, Summer Palace, and Temple of Heaven are included. The Ming Tombs and Peking Man Site at Zhoukoudian are also on the list. Finally the Grand Canal completes the list.
The Forbidden City is the largest palace in the world. It is China’s best-preserved imperial palace. It represents traditional Chinese architectural achievement. The Summer Palace is the world’s largest imperial garden. Emperors once spent their summers there.
Beijing is China’s cultural hub. It boasts unique architecture, arts, and cuisine. Beijing cuisine includes roast duck. Don’t miss the Beijing opera. Experience the narrow hutong lanes. They are lined with traditional courtyard houses.
The best times to visit Beijing are May and October. The city sees temperature extremes. The highest recorded temperature is 42 degrees Celsius. The lowest is -27 degrees Celsius.
Beijing hosted the Summer Olympics in 2008. The Olympic Park is a major attraction. The Bird’s Nest and Water Cube are engineering marvels. Beijing is the first city to host both Summer and Winter Olympics.