Central axis
Day 1: Imperial Beijing
Begin in the open sweep of Tiananmen Square, then walk north through the Meridian Gate into the Forbidden City, home to 24 emperors of the Ming and Qing. Give the palace the whole morning: the great halls first, then the quieter side courtyards. After lunch, climb Jingshan for the classic view south over the golden roofs. As evening falls, join the strollers on Wangfujing, Beijing's best-known shopping street.
Morning
Stand in Tiananmen Square as the city wakes
Walk the Forbidden City from gate to gate
Afternoon
Climb Jingshan for the view over the palace
Evening
Stroll Wangfujing as the lights come on





















