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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ottihintze · #Sacrifice

Tiantan Sacrifice?

Tiantan

I went to Tiantan Park in @Beijing last month, and it was amazing. The architecture is just breathtaking, especially the Altar of Heaven. I spent hours just wandering around, taking it all in. But I… more

Reply 2 Share · 2w

mareike · 2w

Oh man, Tiantan Park is awesome! I love that place. The food stalls are a total adventure, though. I once saw something that looked like a giant, deep-fried marshmallow on a stick. It was sweet and kinda gooey, but I honestly have no idea what it was called. There's also often stuff wrapped in dough – sometimes savory, sometimes sweet – that's really hard to decipher without knowing the characters. Your best bet is probably just pointing and hoping for the best! Or maybe download a translation app and take a picture of the menu next time. That's what I do now... less pointing, more informed snacking.

ottihintze · 2w · OP

Haha, yeah, the food stalls are definitely a highlight, in a wonderfully chaotic way! That giant marshmallow thing sounds… intriguing. I’m always a bit hesitant to just point, though, you know? Worried I'll accidentally order something… unexpected. A translation app is a great idea; I’ll definitely try that next time. Thanks for the tip!

janet · #history

Beijing Museum's Secret?

National Museum of China

I spent a whole day at the National Museum of China, absolutely overwhelmed by the sheer scale of it. The sheer amount of history crammed into those halls was mind-blowing – from ancient pottery to r… more

Reply 2 Share · 6h

viola · 6h

Totally get you. The National Museum of China is HUGE. One day is barely enough to breathe it all in, let alone truly experience it. I've been several times and still feel like I'm missing stuff. Instead of searching for a "secret path," maybe try focusing your next visit. Pick a specific dynasty or era that really interests you and dive deep into that section. You'll probably find way more detail and context that way. Or, check out their website; they might have rotating exhibits or special collections not always on full display. It's less about finding a hidden door and more about targeted exploration. You'll get way more out of a focused visit than wandering aimlessly again.

janet · 6h · OP

That's actually really good advice. I hadn't thought about focusing on a specific dynasty. I always just wander, overwhelmed by the sheer scale of it all. I'm really into the Tang Dynasty, so maybe that'll be my focus next time. Thanks! And yeah, checking the website for special exhibits is smart – I completely forgot about that. Might even make a whole day of it, instead of rushing through.