Beijing, China

Beijing (or Jing for short), is the most important center for international trade and communications of China, as well as the country's political, economic, cultural, and educational centers. Beijing is one of China's six ancient cities, along with Xian, Luoyang, Kaifeng, Nanjing, and Hangzhou. Throughout its long history, Beijing has been the soul and heart of politics and society, and as a result, there is an unrivaled depth of discovery to delight and intrigue visitors as they explore Beijing's historic past and experience its dynamic modern development.

The city is home to many outstanding cultural monuments, and the capital is an integral part of Chinese history. The Great Wall, the Forbidden City, the Summer Palace, Tiananmen Square, the Temple of Heaven, and the Bell Ringing Tower all draw many visitors and travelers to this spectacular metropolis every year.

Nation: China

No. Tourists: 4.4 million annually

Best time to visit: March to May and September to October