Sources and freshness
Static planning guidance on this page is reviewed by the China Train Tickets editorial team. Train times, fares, seat classes, and availability can change, so the live result for your selected travel date is authoritative.
- Primary operational reference
- China Railway 12306 (live results may change when railway operations change)
- Page reviewed
City Overview
Beijing, the capital of the People's Republic of China, serves as the nation's political, cultural, and international exchange center. With over 3,000 years of city history and 800 years as a capital, Beijing is home to numerous UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the Forbidden City, the Great Wall, the Temple of Heaven, and the Summer Palace. Modern Beijing is equally vibrant — landmarks like the National Stadium ("Bird's Nest") and the National Centre for the Performing Arts showcase the city's forward-looking ambition.
Railway Transport
Beijing has several passenger hubs, including Beijing South, Beijing West, Beijing Chaoyang, and Beijing North. Beijing South serves the Beijing–Shanghai HSR and selected Beijing–Tianjin intercity trains, while Beijing West connects with corridors including the Beijing–Guangzhou HSR; northeast-bound trains may instead use Beijing Chaoyang. The departure station, operating date, stops, and journey time depend on the selected service. After choosing a travel date, use China Railway 12306 to confirm the full station name and actual train.
Must-See Attractions
The Palace Museum is known for its extensive Ming- and Qing-era palace complex and collections. Open Great Wall sections such as Badaling and Mutianyu require separate transport and reservation planning. The Temple of Heaven was used for imperial ceremonies, and the Summer Palace is arranged around Kunming Lake and Longevity Hill. Check each attraction's official channel for dated opening and reservation requirements.
Food Highlights
Peking Duck is a must-try in Beijing, with Quanjude and Bianyifang being the most celebrated heritage restaurants. Instant-boiled mutton hotpot, featuring a traditional copper pot over charcoal with hand-sliced lamb, is another signature dish — Donglaishun is the most reputable name. Traditional snacks like Zhajiangmian (soybean paste noodles), Douzhir (fermented mung bean drink), and Lu Zhu (stewed offal) are also worth trying. Wangfujing Snack Street and Nanluoguxiang are great spots for authentic Beijing flavors.