Tour around the Temple of Heaven

Schedule: One Day

The first stop for today's trip is the Temple of Heaven. The photo and pattern of the Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests can be seen from almost at any vantage point. Here you can see amazing examples of China's imperial architecture, unique buildings and experience local people's lives. Many senior residents bring children and grandchildren to the park relax and play; some people write calligraphy on walkways with water People's activities here are a unique feature of Beijing's cultural life. If you exit the East Gate of the Temple of Heaven, you will encounter the Hongqiao Pearl Market across the street. The market is full of pear decorations, souvenirs and special products.

Your next stop will be the famous Panjiayuan Antiques Market. The market is full of authentic antiques and replicas, new versions of ancient products and goods and other rare items. Vendors expect you to drive a hard bargain. If you are lucky, you can buy a real treasure. But be careful if you are worried about buying fake items, but if you see something you like, get it, because it's likely you won't see it anywhere else and certainly not for a less expensive price.

At lunchtime, try the Donglaishun Restaurant at the Panjiayuan and its specialty, a traditional hot pot. Donglaishun is a time -- Honored Brand restaurant known for its hot pot specialties.

After lunch, take a taxi to Liulichang Cultural Street. You may consider this cultural street similar to Panjiayuan, but there are important differences; Liulichang specializes in classical paintings, calligraphy, old books and antiques. On the south section of the street, there are many musical instrument shops, even many authentic traditional Chinese instruments.

Walk along Liulichang Street to the and you will encounter the time-honored Dashila, a street lined with Zhonghua Laozihao (China Time Honored Brand) shops that exist amid a variety of other restaurants, shops and bars. It will be dark by now, so take time to enjoy the Peking roast duck at the famed Quanjude Qianmen Restaurant before visiting the Huguang Guild Hall.