10 must-sees during your 72 hours visa-free transit in Beijing

Great Wall. Photo provided to China Daily

As one of the most representative architecture in China, the Great Wall has experienced a long history of over 2000 years and witnessed changes of many dynasties. Originally, the Great Wall was built as fortifications to defend against alien invaders. The construction of this masterpiece had gone through several ages, from the 3rd century BC to the 17th century AD. Besides its long duration, the wisdom and high skills of the Great Wall builders also take people's breath away due to its exceptional strength, ruggedness and superior corrosion resistance. So come and see the greatest wonder of China.

4) Temple of Heaven

Built in the first half of 15th century, China's iconic Temple of Heaven essentially served as a holy place where emperors of Ming and Qing Dynasty held religious ceremony. Located in the royal garden and surrounded by old pines, the Temple of Heaven is now considered to be the best preserved historic temple buildings. Through its architectural design and layout, it embodies perfectly the relationship between heaven and earth, monarch and subject. So the Temple of Heaven is indeed an appealing place with a heavy religious atmosphere.

5) Silk Market

For many tourists, Silk Market has the same reputation as the Great Wall, the Forbidden City and Pecking roast duck. It is undoubtedly a shopping paradise for visitors where they can buy highest quality goods at the lowest price. In 1980 when the market had its first embryonic form, the Silk Market was only composed of a few sparely scattered small stops. However, after decades of modest progress, the Silk Market has now become an important landmark and civil trade center in Beijing. So don't miss the amazing shopping experience that the Silk Market offers.

6) Nangluoguxiang

Which place is the best to see traditional alley ways of Beijing, Hutong? The Nanluoguxiang should be the foremost. The Nanluoguxiang is known as one of the best preserved historical sites in Beijing. Built in 1267, it has been an important landmark both in culture and business. In ancient times, it was the most favorite area where high officials and noble lords preferred to live and their mansions were scattered around 8 hutongs on both east and west side of it. Nowadays, it has become a busiest entertainment district.