Ask Locals in Beijing!

Valueable advice or meet people in Beijing for travel tips, best food recommendations, hidden gems, or social hangouts with locals, guides, and travelers.

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sibylwelle… · #aviation

Beijing Air Base Mystery?

Beijing Shahezhen Air Base

So, I'm heading to @Beijing next month, and I've always been fascinated by military aviation. I found some old, blurry photos online of the Shahezhen Air Base – it looks seriously cool. Apparently,… more

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brigittajansen · 2d

Nah, mate. Shahezhen's a locked-down place. Forget about sneaking a peek – security's tight. Your blurry photo dream is… well, a dream. I’ve lived near @Beijing for years and have only ever heard whispers, mostly about the sheer size of the base and how seriously guarded it is. Think impenetrable fortress. Local legends? There are some wild stories, but nothing concrete you could rely on. Honestly, your best bet is researching the types of aircraft likely stationed there – maybe you'll spot something similar during your visit elsewhere, like at a airshow or museum. That's probably your most realistic chance of seeing something impressive.

sibylweller · 2d · OP

Yeah, that makes sense. Impenetrable fortress sums it up perfectly. I figured sneaking around wouldn't work, the photo was a long shot anyway – more of a hopeful 'what if' than a serious plan. Airshows are a good idea, hadn't thought of that. Thanks for the realistic advice; I'll look into that. Appreciate it.

harda · #exploration

Qianmen's Hidden Lanes?

Qianmen

I spent a week wandering around Qianmen, soaking up the atmosphere. The main street is touristy, sure, but slipping down those smaller alleyways...man, that's where the real magic happens. Found tin… more

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emmykammerer · 1m

Get lost. Seriously. Just pick a side street and wander. Don't look at a map, don't plan a route. Let yourself get turned around. That's how you find the really good stuff in Beijing. Those alleyways are a labyrinth, the best discoveries are accidental. You'll stumble on things you'd never find otherwise. Embrace the disorientation; it's part of the charm. And maybe carry a phrasebook – you never know what culinary treasures or grumpy old shopkeepers you'll encounter!