"Packing happiness for another family escapade."
Another Family Trip
There's nothing quite like embarking on another family adventure—packing up the bags, gathering the crew, and heading out to explore the unknown. Each trip brings fresh memories and strengthens the bond that holds us together. From the laughter shared in the car or the plane on the way to the destination, to the wide-eyed wonder at every new sight, family trips are a perfect blend of chaos and joy. It's the little things—snapping pictures by landmarks, sharing meals that become instant favorites, and even the occasional mishap—that turn the journey into an unforgettable experience. No matter where the road leads, the real treasure is the time spent together, weaving another chapter into the family story.
Beijing (北京)
Beijing, the capital of China, is a bustling metropolis with a rich history spanning over three millennia. It's renowned for its blend of ancient traditions and modern innovation. The city is home to iconic landmarks such as the Forbidden City, the Great Wall of China and Tiananmen Square.
Beyond its historical significance, Beijing is a hub for politics, culture, and education in China. It's also known for its vibrant food scene, offering everything from Peking duck to street snacks.
Beijing's history stretches back over 3,000 years! It was originally established as a city during the Western Zhou Dynasty (1045–771 BC). Over the centuries, it has served as the capital for several dynasties, including the Yuan, Ming, and Qing, and has grown into the vibrant metropolis we know today.
During World War II, Beijing, then known as Beiping, was under Japanese occupation. The city fell to Japanese forces in 1937 during the early stages of the Second Sino-Japanese War, which is often considered a precursor to the broader conflict of World War II.
The occupation brought significant hardships to the local population, including strict control, economic exploitation, and cultural suppression. Despite these challenges, Beijing remained a symbol of resistance for many Chinese people. The war also saw the collaboration and conflict between the Kuomintang (Nationalists) and the Chinese Communist Party as they united against the Japanese invasion.
Beijing today has a population of approximately 21.86 million, it is a dynamic city that serves as the political, cultural, and technological heart of China. It continues to evolve rapidly, balancing its rich historical heritage with modern advancements. The city is currently addressing challenges like air quality and urban development while also focusing on economic growth and technological innovation.
East Sacred Hotel (东方圣达酒店)
This is a boutique-style property located in Dongdan, very close to Tiananmen Square, the Forbidden City, and Wangfujing. It has been operating for more than a decade, offering compact but comfortable rooms, attentive service, and a convenient base for exploring central Beijing.
There are several cats in the compound, and they are well taken care by the staff. The presence of cats around the property, adding a homely, relaxed atmosphere. These cats are friendly and have become part of the hotel’s charm, making it stand out from more conventional business hotels.
The lobby is not big, aside from reception, it also comes with a huge sofa and coffee machine too. The guard and the staff are very polite, helpful and nice.
Just before you go to the lift, you have to tap your card to enter to the "next zone" - security is good.
The rooms are pretty small but very clean, the washing basin is outside rather than in the toilet so there is no space to really fully open a luggage.
Breakfast is simple, leaning toward Chinese-style offerings with some Western touches - adequate rather than lavish — enough to start the day before sightseeing.
Da Dong Roast Duck (大董烤鸭)
DaDong Peking Duck (Wangfujing Branch) is a renowned restaurant located in Beijing's bustling Wangfujing area. Famous for its innovative approach to traditional Peking duck, DaDong is celebrated for its "crispy yet not greasy" roast duck, which has become its signature dish. The restaurant combines culinary artistry with modern presentation, offering dishes that are as visually stunning as they are delicious.
DaDong Peking Duck was established in 1985 by Chef Dong Zhenxiang, making the brand approximately 40 years old. Over the decades, it has grown into a culinary icon, renowned for its innovative approach to Peking duck and its fusion of traditional Chinese flavors with modern presentation.
The restaurant features sleek, contemporary decor with clean lines, warm lighting, and tasteful furnishings. The use of neutral tones and high-quality materials adds to the upscale ambiance, while artistic elements and subtle Chinese motifs reflect the cultural heritage of the cuisine.
The restaurant elevates the traditional art of duck roasting with meticulous preparation methods and an emphasis on quality ingredients. Its signature Peking duck is roasted to perfection, delivering a unique balance of crispy skin and tender meat, complemented by a light, non-greasy texture—a hallmark of the DaDong brand.
Chicken in spicy sauce AKA Saliva Chicken itself is poached until tender and silky, then chilled to preserve its delicate texture. What makes the dish unforgettable is the sauce: a bold blend of chili oil, soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, ginger, sesame paste, and a touch of sugar. The first bite delivers a burst of savory umami, quickly followed by a gentle sweetness and tangy acidity. The chili oil provides a deep, smoky heat, while the sesame adds nutty richness that lingers on the palate. Without being overwhelming, the flavors build in waves—spicy, aromatic, slightly sweet, and refreshingly sharp—creating a balance that keeps you coming back for more.
The whole roasted duck was carved tableside by the chef and neatly presented on our plates. While the duck itself tasted rather ordinary—somewhat overrated in our view—the other dishes we ordered turned out to be quite enjoyable. Upon looking into it, we discovered that Chef Dong Zhenxiang had trained in roasting techniques passed down from the century-old brand Quan Ju De. Unfortunately, the accompanying duck soup was nearly flavorless, a sentiment unanimously shared among my companions.
This soup is almost tasteless which was agreed by everyone.
Free soft serve vanilla cone after the staff pour plain water into Mr Lee's sprite.
Wang Fu Jing Pedestrian Street
Wangfujing Street is one of Beijing's most famous and bustling shopping destinations, located in the Dongcheng District near the city center. Stretching approximately 1.6 kilometers (1 mile), it runs from East Chang’an Avenue to the National Art Museum of China.
3D Billboard
Passersby often stop to watch the looping animations, turning the billboard into a mini attraction.
The panda is China’s national treasure and a beloved cultural icon, it appears in playful, colorful animations to attract attention and add charm to the shopping district.
Elephants, appearing as though they are stepping out of the screen.
St Joseph's Church
St. Joseph’s Church, also known as the Wangfujing Catholic Church or East Cathedral, rises prominently along Wangfujing Street in Beijing. As one of the city’s four historic Catholic churches, it remains a celebrated landmark within the vibrant shopping district.
Tiananmen (天安门)
Tiananmen, the Gate of Heavenly Peace, stands as the monumental entrance to the Forbidden City and one of Beijing’s most iconic landmarks. Built in the early Ming dynasty (completed in 1420), it has long symbolized imperial authority and, later, modern China.
From the outside, the gate is instantly recognizable with its grand red walls, golden roof tiles, and the large portrait of Mao Zedong at the center. The vast square in front is often filled with visitors, creating a sense of scale and significance.
Although we did not enter to watch the flag-raising ceremony — which takes place at dawn and draws large crowds — simply photographing the exterior captured the essence of its grandeur. The atmosphere outside was already impressive: the sweeping plaza, the symmetry of the architecture, and the sheer historical weight of the site.
Quan Ju De
The Quanjude brand dates back to 1864 in Beijing.under the reign of Emperor Tongzhi, and thsis branch in WFJ opened in 1979! It is celebrated for its excellent roast duck, attentive service, and elegant food presentation. (My Mr and I had been eating the branch in Shanghai for few times!)
The star of the meal : Peking Duck
Known for professional tableside carving — chefs slice the whole roasted duck in front of guests, arranging it neatly on a pretty plate for tasting.
This is a refined, plated appetizer that distills the essence of Peking duck into a single bite — crispy duck skin, crunchy base, and layered flavor — a testament to Quanjude’s culinary artistry.
This dish (salt and pepper mix) — often served at Quanjude after the main roast duck course — is a clever transformation of the duck remains (bones and meat scraps) into a flavorful, crispy treat.
The duck bones and bits of meat are deep-fried with salt and peppers, creating a crackling exterior with bursts of umami. The meat clinging to the bones becomes crispy yet juicy, while the bones themselves offer a satisfying crunch or chew, depending on the cut.It is meant to be eaten with your hands, encouraging a casual, communal vibe after the more formal duck carving. It’s a contrast to the refined duck slices — rustic, punchy, and deeply satisfying.
The Great Wall - JuYong Pass (居庸关)
The Juyong Pass (居庸关) is one of the most famous and strategically significant sections of the Great Wall of China. Located in the Changping District of Beijing, about 60 kilometers (37 miles) from the city center, it is nestled in the picturesque Guangou Valley, surrounded by mountains on both sides.
Today, Juyong Pass is a popular tourist destination, known for its historical significance, architectural beauty, and relatively fewer crowds compared to other sections of the Great Wall
I will do another separate blog to share more photos and information on Juyong Pass.
TanZhe Temple (潭柘寺)
Tanzhe Temple is one of the oldest and most historically significant Buddhist temples in Beijing. Located in the Mentougou District, about 40 kilometers (25 miles) west of the city center, it is nestled in the scenic Tanzhe Mountain area, surrounded by lush greenery and tranquil landscapes. The temple's name, "Tanzhe," originates from the dragon pool ("Tan") behind the temple and the mulberry trees ("Zhe") that grow on the mountain.
Established during the Western Jin Dynasty in 307 AD, Tanzhe Temple predates the founding of Beijing itself, leading to the saying, "First there was Tanzhe Temple, then there was Beijing City." Over its 1,700-year history, the temple has undergone several renovations and expansions, with most of its existing structures dating back to the Ming and Qing Dynasties.
The temple complex is vast, covering an area of 25,000 square meters (2.5 hectares), and features a harmonious layout along a central axis. Key highlights include the Mahavira Hall, the Vairochana Pavilion, and ancient ginkgo trees known as the "Emperor Tree" and "Empress Tree," which are over 1,000 years old. The temple's architecture blends traditional Chinese design with Buddhist elements, creating a serene and spiritual atmosphere.
Tanzhe Temple has been a popular destination for emperors, officials, and commoners throughout history, serving as a place of worship and pilgrimage.
Beyond the market, we walked a short distance to reach the temple entrance, though the stone-paved path proved a little challenging with its uneven sizes and varying heights.
Forbidden City
The Forbidden City, located in the heart of Beijing, is an iconic imperial palace complex that served as the political and ceremonial center of China for nearly 500 years. Built between 1406 and 1420 during the reign of Emperor Yongle of the Ming Dynasty, it was home to 24 emperors of the Ming and Qing Dynasties. The name "Forbidden City" reflects its exclusivity—ordinary citizens were prohibited from entering, and access was strictly limited to the imperial family and high-ranking officials.
Spanning 178 acres (72 hectares), the Forbidden City is a masterpiece of traditional Chinese architecture and urban planning. It features nearly 9,000 rooms, arranged symmetrically along a north-south axis, adhering to the principles of feng shui. The complex is surrounded by a 10-meter-high wall and a wide moat, symbolizing its role as a fortress of imperial power. Key structures include the Hall of Supreme Harmony, the largest wooden structure in China, and the Palace of Heavenly Purity, which served as the emperor's residence.
Today, the Forbidden City is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and operates as the Palace Museum, showcasing a vast collection of Chinese art, artifacts, and historical treasures. It remains one of the most visited cultural landmarks in the world, offering a glimpse into China's imperial past.
I will do another separate blog to share more photos and information on Forbidden City.
Jinshan Park (景山公园)
Jinshan Park in Beijing is a historic royal garden directly north of the Forbidden City, famous for its central hill that offers the best panoramic view of the Forbidden City. Built during the Yuan, Ming, and Qing dynasties, it is now a popular spot for both tourists and locals to relax among ancient trees and pavilions
I will share more photos and information about Jinshan park in the same separate blog of Forbidden City.
Temple of Heaven (天坛)
The Temple of Heaven in Beijing is a vast imperial complex built between 1406–1420 during the Ming dynasty. It was where emperors performed grand ceremonies to pray for good harvests, making it one of China’s most important ritual sites. Today, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a popular park for both history lovers and locals.
I will do another separate blog to share more photos and information on the Temple of Heaven.
DaShanLar & QianMen
Dashilar and Qianmen are historic areas in Beijing, China, known for their rich cultural heritage and bustling commercial streets.
Both are located in the same general area in Beijing, near Tiananmen Square. Dashilar is situated just west of Qianmen Street, making them very close to each other. Both are part of the historic and cultural heart of Beijing, offering a blend of traditional architecture, shopping, and cultural experiences.
Dashilar, also known as Dashilan, has a fascinating history that dates back over 500 years. It originated during the Yuan Dynasty (1271–1368) and was completed in the Ming Dynasty (1368–1644).
Initially, wooden fences were placed at both ends of the street, giving it the name "Dashilar," which means "big fence" in Chinese. Over the centuries, Dashilar grew into a bustling commercial hub, especially during the Qing Dynasty (1644–1911).
It became famous for its shops selling silk, hats, shoes, and traditional Chinese medicine. Many of these stores, like Ma Ju Yuan (a hat shop) and Nei Lian Sheng (a shoe store), are still operational today and are considered cultural landmarks.
Despite facing challenges like fires and urban development, Dashilar has preserved much of its traditional architecture and cultural heritage. Today, it remains a vibrant area where visitors can experience the charm of old Beijing.
Men Kuang Hutong (门框胡同)
It is one of the historic food streets in the Dashilar/Qianmen area of Beijing, famous for its traditional snacks and lively atmosphere. It’s part of the cluster of Qianmen food streets, alongside Xianyukou and Dashilar itself, where visitors can taste authentic Beijing flavors and regional specialties.
We are here for our Mongolian BBQ dinner at Bainian Qianmen Zhizi Kaorou (百年前门炙子烤肉). The name “Hundred Years,” and it refers to the heritage of the Zhizi Kaorou (炙子烤肉) style — a grilling method on iron griddles with roots in old Beijing hutongs. The brand is not literally 100 years old, the brand emphasizes its connection to a century-old tradition of Beijing-style charcoal grilling.
The grilling method traces back to nomadic traditions of the Mongols, who cooked meat simply over iron griddles or flat pans, often outdoors. When Mongolian-style barbecue entered Beijing during the Yuan dynasty (1271–1368), it evolved into the hutong-style zhizi kaorou — thinly sliced beef or lamb grilled quickly on small iron plates.
Unlike heavily marinated southern dishes, the flavor profile is straightforward — salt, garlic, cumin, and sometimes chili — highlighting the meat itself.
Qianmen, also known as Zhengyangmen Street, has a rich history spanning over 570 years. It was established during the Ming Dynasty (1368–1644) and became a bustling commercial hub during the Qing Dynasty (1644–1911).
ZhengYangMen (正阳门)
Zhengyangmen, also known as Qianmen or the "Front Gate," is a historic gate in Beijing, China. It was originally built in 1419 during the Ming Dynasty and served as the southern gate of Beijing's Inner City. The gate was part of the city's ancient defensive walls and played a significant role in protecting the imperial city.
Subway Experience
We could not DD back as the app could not pinpoint an exact location of where we are, I assume certain places here do not allow DD pickups.
Therefore, we took a 2 minutes' walk to Qianmen Subway station to catch a subway back to WFJ is direct line, which was just 2 stops, I think.
Qing's Eastern Tombs (清东陵)
The Qing Eastern Tombs, located in Zunhua, Hebei Province, are the largest and most complete imperial mausoleum complex of the Qing dynasty. Built beginning in 1661, they house the tombs of 5 emperors, 15 empresses, 136 concubines, 2 princes, and 2 princesses. The site is renowned for its grand layout, blending traditional Chinese architecture with Manchu influences, and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Nanluoguxiang (南锣鼓巷)
Nanluoguxiang boasts a captivating 787-meter-long central street, with eight smaller hutongs branching off symmetrically on either side. This bustling destination is teeming with cafes, bars, restaurants, boutique shops, and souvenir stores. Visitors can immerse themselves in a blend of historical charm, cultural richness, and contemporary vibes as they wander through the unique courtyards and iconic Beijing-style residences.
Dating back to the Yuan Dynasty (1271–1368), Nanluoguxiang stands as one of Beijing’s oldest neighborhoods, showcasing its deep historical roots and centuries of cultural transformation. Unlike many hutongs that have been modernized or removed, Nanluoguxiang proudly preserves its original grid-like alley layout and traditional courtyard homes (siheyuan).
By evening, the area comes alive with a dynamic blend of locals, travelers, and artists, creating an atmosphere that’s both vibrant and nostalgic. This harmonious mix of ancient history and modern energy truly encapsulates the essence of Beijing.
Here are some insights of the charming old streets.
Jinyaxuan Peking Duck (璟雅轩)
As we wandered through Nanluoguxiang without any particular dinner plans, we stumbled upon this place by chance.
The evening wind was biting cold, so we decided to step inside, seeking both warmth and a cozy shelter.
The modern brand was established in the early 2000s, positioning itself as a new-generation
This sizzling dish is a cast iron stir-fry of mutton, bursting with bold flavors and aromatic heat. The tender slices of mutton are seared to perfection, mingling with onions, scallions, and possibly bell peppers in a rich, glossy sauce — likely soy-based with hints of garlic, ginger, and chili.
Finished with a sprinkle of sesame seeds and fresh herbs, it’s a hearty, umami-packed centerpiece that pairs beautifully with steamed rice or flatbread. The cast iron pan keeps it hot and fragrant, making every bite a warm, savory delight.
Six tourists' step into Beijing’s subway — ticket in hand, laughter echoing, eyes wide at the bustle. We huddle together on the platform, squeeze into the carriage, and marvel at the smooth ride, sharing the city’s pulse beneath its ancient gates, heading to Wangfujing station to end our night.
After a week wandering through the winding alleys and ancient courtyards of old Beijing, the journey draws to a close. Mrs. Lee, after days of long walks beneath the cold northern sky, seems quietly content at the thought of returning home. Her smile carries both relief and gratitude — relief from the chill and fatigue, and gratitude for the memories gathered among lantern-lit streets, steaming bowls of noodles, and the timeless hush of temple bells.
We grabbed a quick lunch at the airport’s food street, eager to move on through customs and security.
This comforting bowl of wonton noodle soup was the perfect farewell — thin egg noodles in clear broth, plump dumplings nestled beside leafy greens, and a sprinkle of scallions to finish. After days of brisk winds and long walks, it warmed both hands and heart.
And just like that, we’ve arrived at the final stop on this blog journey—thank you so much for walking alongside me through every story, snapshot, and sensory moment. If you’d like to continue exploring, I’ve gathered links to my other posts from this trip below. Each one offers a different glimpse into the places, flavors, and feelings that made this adventure unforgettable:
In the meantime, I’d love to share a few reflections from our earlier journeys through China. Below you’ll find links to blog posts from past trips—each one capturing a different slice of the country’s charm, from quiet shrines to bustling street corners.
It would mean so much if you had a moment to dive into a few more of the unforgettable adventures we've shared. Each one holds its own story, waiting to be rediscovered.
You're warmly invited to explore my other travel blogs, featuring adventures across France, Japan, China, Thailand, Malaysia, and even a few unforgettable cruises.
Our next adventure will take my MR and me back to Northern Europe — a return to Denmark, where familiar streets and cozy corners await us. From there, we’ll carve out a few days to experience the raw beauty of Iceland, with its glaciers, geysers, and windswept landscapes.And as the seasons turn, spring will bring another chapter: a journey to Taiwan with all six of us together. It will be a time for shared meals, bustling night markets, and family laughter echoing through temples and mountain trails.
To stay connected and catch the latest updates, feel free to follow me on social media: Facebook page: followblueginger, Instagram page : followblueginger , TikTok page: bluegingerkaren and Tumblr page :followblueginger.
Thanks for being part of the journey!
"I travel because seeing photos in books and brochures was not good enough for me, To be there, that was everything"
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