Things To Do
in Xicheng

Xicheng is a vibrant district in Beijing, China, known for its rich historical significance and cultural heritage. It boasts a mix of traditional architecture and modern amenities, making it a fascinating place for both locals and tourists. The district is home to several key attractions, including the iconic Forbidden City and the beautiful Beihai Park.

With its bustling streets and charming hutongs, Xicheng offers a unique glimpse into the life of Beijing.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Historical Treasures
morning
:

Start your day at the Forbidden City, where you can explore the vast imperial palace and its numerous halls and gardens.

afternoon
:

Visit Beihai Park, enjoy a leisurely stroll around the lake, and consider renting a paddle boat for a unique perspective of the park's stunning scenery.

evening
:

Head to a traditional Peking duck restaurant for dinner and then take a walk along the Wangfujing Snack Street to sample various street foods.

day 2
Day 2: Culture and Relaxation
morning
:

Begin with a visit to the Beijing Capital Museum, which showcases the city's history and culture through its extensive exhibits.

afternoon
:

Explore the hutongs of Xicheng, where you can discover local shops and cafes, and consider participating in a tea ceremony.

evening
:

Enjoy a night out at a local bar or live music venue in the area, immersing yourself in the local nightlife.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍜Meal at local restaurant$5
Coffee at a cafe$3
🚕Taxi ride (5km)$2
🎟️Entrance to museums$10
🍺Beer at a bar$4

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural and historical experiences
  • Delicious local cuisine
  • Vibrant nightlife and outdoor activities
  • Crowded tourist areas
  • Language barrier for some travelers
  • Pollution can affect outdoor experiences
  • "你好 (Nǐ hǎo)" - Hello
  • "谢谢 (Xièxiè)" - Thank you
  • "对不起 (Duìbùqǐ)" - Sorry
  • "多少钱 (Duōshǎo qián)" - How much does it cost?
  • "厕所在哪儿 (Cèsuǒ zài nǎr)" - Where is the bathroom?

Places to Visit in Xicheng

Visit one of these nice places.

Forbidden City

Capture the grandeur of this UNESCO World Heritage site, with its imperial architecture and expansive courtyards.

Beihai Park

A picturesque park with a serene lake, perfect for capturing nature and traditional Chinese landscapes.

Hutongs of Xicheng

Photograph the charming narrow alleys and traditional courtyard houses that showcase Beijing's historical lifestyle.

Culinary Guide

Food in Xicheng

Xicheng offers a delightful culinary experience that reflects Beijing's rich gastronomic heritage. From street food to high-end dining, there's something for everyone.

Xicheng Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Peking Duck

A world-famous dish featuring crispy roasted duck served with thin pancakes, hoisin sauce, and scallions.

Must-Try!

Jiaozi (Dumplings)

Delicious dumplings filled with meat and vegetables, often served with soy sauce for dipping.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Wangfujing Snack Street

A bustling street market known for its array of tasty street foods, including skewered meats, fried snacks, and exotic delicacies.

Climate Guide

Weather

Xicheng experiences a continental climate with four distinct seasons. Summers are hot and humid, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C (86°F), while winters can be cold and dry, with temperatures dropping below 0°C (32°F). Spring and autumn are mild and pleasant, making them ideal for outdoor activities. Rainfall is concentrated in the summer months, with occasional snow in winter.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Elders

Showing respect to elders is crucial; greetings and gestures of politeness are expected.

Dining Etiquette

When dining, wait for the host to begin eating; sharing dishes is common, so be prepared to try a variety of foods.

Public Behavior

Maintain a moderate volume in public spaces and avoid public displays of affection.

Safety Guide

Safety

Xicheng is generally safe for tourists, with a low crime rate. However, it's advisable to stay vigilant in crowded areas to avoid pickpocketing. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 110 for police and 120 for medical emergencies. Always have a copy of your identification and know the location of your hotel.

Tipping in Xicheng

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not customary in China; however, leaving small change in restaurants is appreciated.

Payment Methods

Mobile payment methods like WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely used, making transactions easy and convenient.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring (March to May) brings mild weather, making it ideal for outdoor activities and flower viewing, particularly at parks.

Summer

Summer (June to August) can be hot and humid, so stay hydrated and consider visiting indoor attractions during peak heat hours.

Autumn

Autumn (September to November) offers comfortable temperatures and stunning fall foliage, perfect for photography.

Winter

Winter (December to February) can be cold with occasional snow, but the festive atmosphere and traditional celebrations are worth experiencing.

Nightlife Guide

Xicheng at Night

Xicheng offers a vibrant nightlife with a mix of traditional and modern experiences. You can find lively bars, karaoke lounges, and clubs that cater to various tastes. The area is particularly known for its rooftop bars with stunning views of the city skyline. Be sure to sample local beers and cocktails while enjoying live music or traditional performances.

Hiking in Xicheng

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Fragrant Hills Park

Located just a short drive from Xicheng, this park offers beautiful trails through wooded areas and stunning views of the city.

Lama Temple to Beihai Park Trail

This scenic trail connects two major attractions, allowing hikers to enjoy both cultural sites and natural beauty along the way.

Airports

How to reach Xicheng by plane.

Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK)

Located about 30 km from Xicheng, this is the main international airport serving Beijing, offering numerous domestic and international flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Xicheng is quite walkable, especially in areas with hutongs and parks. Many of the main attractions are within walking distance of each other, and pedestrian-friendly paths make it easy to explore the district. However, be cautious of traffic when crossing streets, as vehicles can be unpredictable.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Han Chinese

The majority ethnic group in Beijing, Han Chinese culture and traditions have a significant influence on the city's customs and daily life.

Ethnic Minorities

Beijing is home to various ethnic minority groups, including Mongols and Tibetans, contributing to the city's rich cultural diversity.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Basketball

Basketball is widely played and followed in Beijing, with many parks featuring courts for public use.

Table Tennis

Table tennis is a popular recreational sport in China, with many clubs and community centers offering facilities for play.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Xicheng can be congested, especially during rush hours. Public transportation options include buses and the Beijing Subway, which is efficient and covers most areas of the district. Taxis are also readily available, but using mobile apps for ride-hailing is becoming increasingly popular.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Xicheng.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

While many dishes feature meat, vegetarian options are available at most restaurants; be sure to ask for '素' (sù) when ordering.

Gluten-Free Options

Gluten-free options may be limited, so it's advisable to communicate your dietary needs clearly.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare services in Xicheng are generally good, with several hospitals and clinics available. Major hospitals offer international services and English-speaking staff, but it's advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies are also widely available for over-the-counter medications.

Discover China

Read more in our China 2025 Travel Guide.

China Travel Guide