Overview of Beijing
Beijing consists of a downtown area and a suburban area. The downtown area consists of six districts including Dongcheng and Xicheng (the traditional city center), Chaoyang, Haidian, Fengtai, and Shijingshan. The suburb area consists of 10 districts including Mentougou, Fangshan, Tongzhou, Shunyi, Changping, Daxing, Huairou, Pinggu, Miyun and Yanqing.
Most expatriates prefer to live in the Chaoyang District, while there are others that rather live in Shunyi District due to the large number of international schools in the area. Overall, Beijing has a total of 16 districts. In Beijing, the housing options are diversified, like all other major metropolitan cities around the world. Properties available include townhouses, semi-detached houses, apartments (Private & Serviced Apartments), and fully detached houses which are often generally referred to as "villas". Besides, Beijing has a unique kind of residence called Siheyuan (A courtyard with rooms lying in the form of a square and an open yard in the center). Singles and young adults often settle in the downtown districts of the city where the nightlife is busy. Students prefer living close to their university (Mainly in Haidian District) where cheap living apartments are supplied. Families with kids prefer mid-levels where schools are in the neighborhood and big apartments or villas are supplied. Quality houses are located all around Beijing from Dongcheng and Chaoyang to Shunyi, where plenty of high-end apartments, serviced apartments, and dazzling villas can be found.
- Districts Map
- Townships: 318 Towns and Subdistricts
- Timezone: China Standard time (UTC + 8)
- Govenrment type: Municipality
- Postal code: 100,000
- Population: 19,612,400
- Area code(Local/int.): +10/+86
- Demonym: Beijinger
- City Flower: Chinese Rose
- Religion: Buddhism 6.75%,Protestant 1.9%,Catholic 0.5%
- Language: Mandarin,Beijing Dialect
- Internet Domain: .cn
Climate
It is from March to May, with frequent intervals of rising and lowering of temperatures. There is much wind and dust in spring, and sometimes sandstorms. Spring is the season when flowers bloom. See places to see flowers in Beijing. May is a good time for spring outings and many shows and performances are concentrated in this month.
It is from June to August, usually scorching with sizzling temperatures at noon. There are occasional downpours. Umbrella, sunglasses and sun screen are recommended. Wear any summer clothes, such as T-shirts, shorts and skirts. Summer is considered peak season, when hotels typically raise their rates and the Great Wall nearly collapses under the weight of marching tourists.
It is from September to November and the most beautiful and pleasant season in Beijing. Though there are intervals of weather changes, it is generally comfortable. Climbing the Great Wall or seeing the red leaves at Fragrant Hill is recommended for this season. There are many places that you can go to see fall foilage in this season.
It is from December to February. It is cold and dry with occasional snow. The temperature is usually well below zero. Get ready to prepare down jackets, thick jeans and long johns, sweaters, hats and gloves. You might also need a mask to protect your nose on windy days. Eating steaming Mongolian hotpot can warm you up in winter. Celebrating a traditional Chinese New Year in the Hutongs, attending bustling temple fairs, and learning to make dumplings will surely give you an authentic experience of local people's life. In addition you can enjoy skiing at Nanshan Ski Resort, Huaibei Ski Resort, and the Bird's Nest (the National Stadium, main venue for the 2008 Olympics Beijing). Also check out Top Ski Resorts in China.
Culture
As is known to all, to settle down in a new city of a new country is difficult, but things will be much different if you are familiar with the culture of the city. Hope our Culture Guide can help you get a better knowledge of Beijing for all aspects about daily life and make your new life in Beijing much easier and more enjoyable!
For Chinese Banquet, an elaborate ceremony of deference may take place at the door, where the most honored guest is supposed to enter first. Usually, the guest of honor sits directly across from the host, who takes the least honorable seat near the serving door.
The meal begins with a toast by the host. Throughout the meal, the host displays great solicitousness for the guests. Guests may refuse offers of food or drink two times or more without really meaning their polite refusals.
The host often decides on one sort of alcoholic beverage either a wine or liquor, which will be served throughout. The banquet will probably be marked by guests challenging each other to drinking games throughout the evening.
At the end of the meal, when the guest of honor feels that everyone appears to have had their fill of postprandial brandy or ceremonial final cups of tea, he should rise. In theory, no other diner can rise until the guest of honor has.
Greeting
Chinese used to cup one hand in the other before the chest as a salute. This tradition has a history of more than 2000 years and nowadays it is seldom used except in the Spring Festival. Shaking hands is more popular and appropriate on some formal occasions.
Bowing
As to convey respect to the higher level, bowing is often used by the lower like subordinates, students and attendants. But at present Chinese youngsters tend to simply nod as a greeting.
Talk
When you begin a discussion with a stranger, topics such as weather, food, or hobbies may be good choices to break the ice. With men, a chat about current affairs, sports, stock market or his job will usually go on smoothly. Like Western customs, you should be cautious to ask a woman private questions. However, relaxing questions about her job or family life will never put you into danger. She will usually be glad to offer you some advice on how to cook Chinese food or get accustomed to local life.
Gift
It is appropriate to give gifts on the following occasions such as festival, birthday, wedding or visiting a patient. If you are invited to a family party, small gifts like wine, tea, cigarettes or candies are welcomed. Also fruit, pastries and flowers are a safe choice. Odd numbers are thought to be unfortunate. So wedding gifts and birthday gifts for the aged are always sent in pairs because of the old saying "blessings come in pairs".
Though four is an even number; it reads like death in Chinese, and is therefore avoided. So is the fruit pear, for being a homophone of separation. The gift of a clock sounds like attending one's funeral so it is a taboo, as well.
The following list of practical expat-friendly websites is for your reference.
Same Body Language In Chinese And Western Culture, But With Different Meanings
Body Language | Meaning in China | Meaning in the West |
Stamping one's foot | Anger, irritation, frustration, remorse | Impatience |
Speaker or performer clapping at the same time audience applauds | Thank you, mutual positive feelings | Applauding oneself improper, immodest |
Staring, gaping | Curiosity, sometimes surprise | Considered impolite, make people embarrassed |
Pat on head | Seldom used, occasionally adults may pat head of children, to show affection, patting the head of a teenage or adult would cause displeasure and can be insulting | Giving comfort, consolation or encouragement also shows affection |
Meaning | Body Language in China | Body Language in the West |
"come here" ( beckoning someone to come) | Hand extended toward person, open palm, palm down, with all fingers crooked in a beckoning motion | Hand extended toward person, closed hand, palm up with forefinger only moving back and forth (in China, this same gesture would be considered offensive by many) |
"Shame on you" (semi-joking guesture) | Forefinger of one hand extended, tip touches one's own face several times quickly. Similar to scratching,but with the forefinger straight (usually with the remark " Shame on you!") | Forefinger of each hand extended, palms down in front of one's body. One of forefinger makes several brushing movements over the back of the other forefinger |
" I'm very full"(after a meal) | One or both hands open, lightly patting one's own stomach | Hand raised to throat, fingers extended, palm down( often with the remark " I'm full up to here") |
Clothing: International brands such as Mango, Zara, Nike, Only, H&M, American Eagle and others can be found in many International Shopping Malls such as Solana, Sanlitun Yashow, Xiushui Silk Market, Lady Street and Tai Koo Li. These are conveniently located near the upscale compounds you will live in. The prices are similar too or slightly higher than in Europe/US. You will find many markets with copied bags and clothes of cheaper prices.
Food & Daily Necessities: There are many supermarkets selling imported goods such as Carrefour, Tesco, BHG, Jenny Lou's, and April Gourmet near the popular compounds you will live in.
Restaurants:In China you can find any type of cuisine from around the world : Indian, Persian, French, Spanish, Japanese… All of which are located near International Shopping Malls or popular compounds.
Accommodation:There are many excellent international hotels for short-term stay. For long-term stay, through the help of a reliable relocation agency, you can move easily into upscale apartments, serviced apartments, villas, or courtyard houses (traditional Beijing residences with modern decorations and facilities).
Your relocation agency will help you with the payment of utility fees.
Tipping is not necessary in China.
Name | Date | Features |
Spring Festival (The Chinese New Year) | 1st of the 1st lunar month | Lucky Money for Children; Wearing New Clothes Paying New Year Visiting and Sending New Year Greetings Eating Dumplings; Setting off Fireworks and FirecrackersFamily Reunion Party |
Lantern Festival | 15th of the 1st lunar month | Eating Small Dumpling Balls Made of Glutinous Rice FlourBeautiful Lighted Lanterns on Display |
Qing Ming (Tomb Sweeping Day) | April 4th or 5th of the solar calendar | Tom Sweeping Going Out to Welcome the Arrival of Spring |
Dragon Boat Festival | 5th of the 5th lunar month | Dragon Boat RaceEating Zongzi (rice wrapped in bamboo leaves, stuffed with ham, beans, salted egg yokes, nuts) |
Mid-Autumn Festival | 15th of the 8th lunar month | Eating Mooncakes; Watching the Full Moon Family Reunion Dinner |
Chong Yang Festival | 9th of the 9th lunar month | Climbing Mountains to Seek Good Luck; Appreciating Chrysanthemums |
National Day | October 1th of the solar calendar | A week-long Holiday to Celebrate the Establishment of the PRC with Various Activities |
In China, all the dishes on the table are shared by everybody. Each person will have one set of dining tool in front of them, including two bowls with one for rice and the other for soup, one pairs of chopsticks, a flat-bottomed soupspoon, and a saucer. Soup is also eaten from the common bowl. The saucer is used for bones and shells or as a place to rest a bite taken from a communal plate when it is too large to eat all at once. It is perfectly acceptable to reach across the table to take a morsel from a far-away dish.
The Chinese host, using their chopsticks, will put food in your bowl or plate as a sign of politeness. The appropriate thing to do would be to eat whatever-it-is, and say how yummy it is. If you feel uncomfortable with this, you can just say a polite thank you and leave the food there.
Don't stick your chopsticks upright in the rice bowl. Instead, lay them on your dish.
Make sure the spout of the teapot is not facing anyone. The spout should always be directed to where nobody is sitting, usually just out from the table.
Don't tap on your bowl with your chopsticks. Beggars tap on theirs bowls, so this is not polite. Also, when the food is coming too slow in a restaurant, people will tap their bowls. If you are in someone's home, it is like insulting the cook.
The ability to speak some daily Chinese expressions will greatly facilitate your life in China.
Category | English | Chinese | Pinyin |
Greetings |
Hello | 你好 | nihao |
Hello (more polite) | 您好 | ninhao | |
Hello( on the phone) | 喂 | wei | |
How are you? | 你好吗? | nihaoma | |
I‘ am fine, thanks. And you? | 我很好,你呢? | wohenhao.nine | |
Sorry | 对不起 | duibuqi | |
Thank you | 谢谢 | xiexie | |
Shopping | How much is this? | 这个多少钱? | zhe ge duo shao qian |
It's too expensive | 太贵了 | tai gui le | |
Cheaper, please | 便宜点儿 | pian yi dian | |
Can I have a look at this? | 我可以看一下这个吗? | wo ke yi kan yi xia zhe ge ma? | |
Please give me a invoice | 请给我一张发票 | qing gei wo yi zhang fa piao | |
Traveling | Where is …? | …在哪儿 | …zai na er? |
How can I get to…? | 我怎么去…? | wo zen me qu …? | |
Please wait a minute | 请等一下 | qing deng yi xia | |
Please take me to… | 请带我去… | qing dai wo qu … | |
Please drop me off here | 我在这里下车 | wo zai zhe li xia che |
Thinking Pattern Differences
It's important to realize that one of the more subtle aspects of culture has to do with the way one thinks about how the world functions. The following table presents some of the differences between how the East and the West think about things.
Items | West | East |
Type of Logic | Linear ( More causal relationships and direct associations between A and B) | Spiral( more roundabout and subtle) |
Expression of Agreement and Disagreement | More argumentative and willing to express disagreement | More difficult to say no even if one means no |
Expression of Self | "I"-oriented Sender-oriented | "We"-oriented Receiver-sensitive value |
Thinking Orientation | More rule based or based on application of abstract principles such as regulations | Take context and specific situation into account in rule interpretation |
The Individual | Has to have rights and greater need for autonomy and achievement | Group duty & harmony |
Conflict Resolution | Trial or Confrontation | More mediation |
Time Sense During Meetings | Be on time and end on time | Appointments less driven by exact start and end times |
Conflict Results | Simple win or lose | Win-Win; to lose is to win; Lose in order to win |
Communication of Information | The mass of the meaning is in the explicit, verbal message | The meaning is often implied or must be inferred |
Life Service
SAE Asia
Established in Shanghai in 2005 by three enthusiastic logistics professionals, SAE Asia was created to provide solutions to address the growing demands from individuals and small to medium sized businesses for their moving and shipping needs in China. By understanding the challenges and difficulties one could face when dealing with large corporations or local companies, we have designed solutions that provide the highest quality of service while remaining affordable. Now regarded as the #1 choice by our ever-growing client base, we are proud to continue our leadership by providing reliable, cost-effective, and service-oriented moving & shipping services between Greater China, Singapore and the rest of the world.
The best way to find a reliable Ayi is by word of mouth. With the expatriate community always being on the move, you can usually find someone that is leaving and is trying to find their maid/nanny employment before departing. Finding a maid that has already been trained by a Western family is a real find! If you have no luck here, there are also agencies available where you can hire an Ayi. When calling an agency, make sure to ask what training the Ayi's have had, how long they worked in their last job and what the hourly or monthly rate is. If you do go through an agency, expect to pay a commission equals up to a month's salary of the Ayi. In Beijing, some of the apartment buildings and housing complexes either offer this service or can help you locate an Ayi, make sure to ask when looking at housing.
Here we recommend Coleclub-嘉乐汇 to you for find a good Ayi for its nationwide coverage, long history and good reputation.
Coleclub-嘉乐汇
Add: Rm103, 1/F, East Park International Apartment, Chaoyang District
Hotline: 8450 1671/1798 English:400-060-1560
Website: www.coleclub.com / http://www.ayilaile.com/
Add: Huangcunzhen, Daxing District
Hotline: 5128 5200/5840 1255
Website: www.dfss.com.cn
First, you should download the App and then log into it and fill in all the requested info and upload scanning copies for both original version and ectype version of the following documents:
1. Your passport ( the page with photo)
2. Visa ( with proof of last time use in the form of seal)
3. China Driving License
Note: Validity period for all documents should no less than 2 months.
Website: http://www.zuche.com/ Hotline: 400-616-6666 (English) +86 10 58209555
International Center For Veterinary Services
北京新天地国际动物医院
Add:No.13-16, Oliver Business Street, Futong West Street, Wangjing, Chaoyang District
Tel: 8456 1939
Hrs: 8:00am-8:00pm (Mon-Sat) 10:00am-7:00pm (Sun, by appointment only)
Website: www.ICVSASIA.com
Beijing Ornamental Animal Hospital
观赏动物医院
Add: No.7 Middle Road of North 3rd Ring, Xicheng District
Tel: 6204 9742
Hrs: 9:00am-6:30pm
Aikang Veterinary Hospital
爱康动物医院
Add: No.45 Tianshuiyuan Dongli, Chaoyang District Tel: 6504 2085 Hrs: 9:00am-10:00pm
K.K. Animal Hospital
康康宠物医院
Add: No.801-802, Pinnacle Plaza, Shunyi District
Tel: 8046 2358 Hrs: 9:00am-7:00pm
Living in Beijing
As China's capital as well as political and culture center, Beijing is a livable city with basic facilities and amenities always conveniently available. Beijing has an extensive public transportation system consisting of metro lines, bus routes and taxis, all of which can be paid by the Beijing Public Transportation Card. The Beijing Metro incorporates both subway and light metro lines, which extends to every major district and many suburban districts. With nearly 1200 bus lines, the Beijing bus routes network is one of the most extensive in the world.
Like any other expanding city, private car ownership has been rapidly increasing over the years, and therefore increasing traffic concerns. In the city center, there are several elevated expressways to ease the congestion, but the demand continues to push the limits of the city's capacity. To manage the growth of new private cars on the road, the Beijing government auctions out only a limited number of license numbers every two months. In addition, only those who are registered Beijing residents or have paid social insurance and income tax for over 5 consecutive years may purchase a license.
Some environmental problems include smog, water and noise pollution, as well as overpopulation. Air pollution in Beijing is low compared to other major Chinese cities, but still high by world standards. Fortunately, with more than 160 parks around the city, the extensive public park system in Beijing provides residents with some serenity.
Despite living with problems typical of life in a megacity, Beijing remains very popular among expats in many ways. As one of the most expensive cities in the world for expats, sometimes the cost of living in Beijing can be a pressure for those on a budget. Residents with a taste for luxury goods will find a plethora of choices in any of the high-end shopping malls around the city. The cosmopolitan atmosphere of life in Beijing exudes a vibrant nightlife and entertainment scene to allow anyone to indulge in delight. However residents with a tighter budget need not worry, a stroll around the neighborhood would most likely have plenty of choices to suit your needs.
Beijing Property Types
As a metropolis with long history, Beijing has various kinds of properties to meet different housing demands. Here in Beijing, no matter you are a single, a couple or a family to seek modernity or traditional Chinese culture, bustle or serenity, the warmness of a home or the convenience of a hotel, there are always wonderful residences for you to choose from. Now let's see what kinds of nice homes Beijing has to offer.
Apartments in Beijing are usually located in thriving city center or high-end compounds in suburbs. They often boast reasonable layouts, modern kitchen and bathroom facilities, stylish modern furnishing, 24h security as well as great on-site amenities like gym and mature living facilities like international shopping malls, schools and hospitals nearby.
Apartments are of various layouts, ranging from cozy studio to 1Br units, 2Br units, 3Br units even duplexes or penthouses with more than 4 bedrooms. Some apartments in upscale compounds are in modern style with nice indoor or outdoor balconies, French windows, open kitchen, bath tub as well as cloakrooms. Some apartments are equipped with floor-heating and central air-conditioning. Rentals for apartments are of wide range from RMB 8,000-100,000/month depending on sizes, layouts, locations and furnishings.
Maybe for many expat families who are accustomed to big houses with ample indoor and outdoor spaces, villas are their best choices. There are villas in both downtown and suburb, with those in downtown boasting great service, thus higher rentals.
Villas in suburb are mainly located in Shunyi area along airport expressway and surrounded by many international schools. There are townhouses, semi-detached villas and detached villas, nearly all of which boast big balconies, large terraces, beautiful gardens, garages as well as multi-functional basements. For some luxury ones, they even have private swimming pools. Villa compounds usually boast beautiful & quiet environment featuring hills, lakes, forests and mature amenities like gym, swimming pool, clubhouses, international schools & kindergarten, jogging tracks on-site as well as parks and international shopping malls nearby. Rentals for villas range from RMB 28,000-100,000/month depending on sizes, layouts, locations and furnishings.
Service apartments are usually located in thriving city center with convenient transportation and great entertainment & relaxing facilities nearby. They are ideal choices for business person and upscale families who seek quality life as they are of various layouts ranging from studio to 4Br penthouses, equipped with quality modern furniture, imported kitchen & bathroom appliances as well as great hotel-level services such as room-cleaning, 24h security, maintenance and reception, some even with breakfast, childcare and airport pickup & sendoff.
Amenities in service apartment compounds usually are complete and mature including gym, swimming pool, spa, cafes, restaurants and meeting rooms.
For their great advantages over general apartments, rentals of service apartments are accordingly relatively high ranging from RMB 12,000-100,000/month depending on sizes, layouts, services, locations and furnishings.
There is also a unique residence type in Beijing called Courtyard or Siheyuan (A courtyard with rooms lying in the form of a square and an open yard in the center). They are traditional Beijing residences kept today for historical and cultural reasons, thus ideal places for those expats who want to fully taste Chinese culture.
Nowadays, most courtyards are nice houses with traditional Chinese residence appearance but modern facilities. They boast an ambience of serenity and comfort for their nice yards, reasonable layouts, practical roof terraces and basements (some don't have) as well as great locations in quiet alleys surrounded by thriving traditional businesses. Besides, there are also many nice shops, bars and restaurants opened by foreigners. So courtyards are really ideal choice for those who want to live a life with a great balance between prosperity and serenity while fully tasting Chinese culture. Rentals for courtyards range from RMB 18,000-100,000/month depending on sizes, layouts and furnishings.
Healthcare
Most expats needing healthcare in Beijing go to the city's private hospitals and medical centres. Public hospitals are cheap but waiting times are long and the quality of treatment can vary greatly. Private medical centres are also preferred for non-emergency visits. The Chinese in Beijing generally don't attend separate general practitioner clinics but queue at the public hospitals for non-emergency treatments and advice. This creates enormous and frustrating waits that can be avoided at private centres.
Doctors at private clinics generally speak English and are often expatriates from Europe or the US themselves. Some Chinese doctors use elements of traditional medicine in their practice although, in general, the two fields have little overlap in Beijing medical centers.
The most prominent expat-friendly hospitals in Beijing include:No 9-11 Jiangtai West Road, Chaoyang District, Beijing
Tel: 4008919191
www.ufh.com.cn
Building 14 and 15 Jianwai Diplomatic Residence, Jianguomen, Chaoyang Beijing
Tel: 4008919191
www.ufh.com.cn
No 818 Rongxiang Square, Yuyang Road Tianzhu County, Shunyi Dstrict, Beijing
Tel: 4008919191
www.ufh.com.cn
Room 3017 Second floor, Building AB Van tong Centre, Chaoyang District, Beijing
Tel: 4008919191
www.ufh.com.cn
No 27 Building, Building 19 East Dongfang Road, Chaoyang District, Beijing
Tel: 4008919191
www.ufh.com.cn
Add:Suite 105,Wing 1,Kunsha Building,
16 Xinyuanli,Chaoyang District
Tel: +86 (0) 10 6462 9100
Website:www.internationalsos.com
Add:No.1 Shuaifuyuan Wangfujing Dongcheng District, Beijing
Tel: 010-69156114
Website:www.pumch.ac.cn
Add:Unit 102, Business Building16, China Central Place, Chaoyang District
Tel: 021 5489 3781/6468 8888
Website:en.renai.cn
Add: No.9 Fangyuan West Road, Chaoyang District
Tel: 400-10000-16
Website:www.amcare.com.cn
Add: No.12 Panjiayuan Nanli,Chaoyang District,Beijing, P.R.China
Tel: 24hr Hotline: (010)87789662
Website:www.intecheye.com
Add: 2168,North Tower, Shangdu SOHO, No.8 Dongdaqiao Road,Chaoyang District
Tel: 010-5900038
Website:www.maloclinics.com.cn
Add:7 Ritan Dong Lu, Chaoyang District, Beijing 100020, PRC
Tel: 010-85629998
Website:www.bjhealthcare.com
Add:Room205, Block A, International Tower, Chaoyang District
Tel: 010-85629998
Website:www.arrail-dental.com
Add:2nd floor,Century Fortune Center,No.5 Guanghua Rd,Chaoyang District,Beijing
Tel: 010-8416 7988
Website:www.arrail-dental.com
Add:Floor 1,Somerset Fortune Garden,Chaoyang District
Tel: 010-8440 1926
Website:www.arrail-dental.com
Add:Room 104,No.31 Ronghe Plaza,Linyin Rd,Tianzhu town,Shunyi District,Beijing
Tel:010-8416 7988
Website:www.arrail-dental.com
Recreation
As the capital of China, Beijing brings together people from all over the world. The prosperity of the city has brought about a varied and colorful nightlife. The diverse nightlife in Beijing makes it suitable for people with different interests, but especially for the young. There are cinemas, theatres, nightclubs, bars, song and dance halls, Karaoke clubs, restaurants, Beijing opera, or teahouses, not to mention Kung Fu and acrobatics shows. There are hundreds of bars in Beijing, the famous bar streets, such as Sanlitun or Houhai, cater for the local youth as well as many foreigners. The music, décor, and various kinds of activities make them enjoyable places to relax and make friends.
For any traveler to Beijing the city's history and culture can be daunting. The Chinese capital is brimming with more sights, eats and treats than most countries. The city streets pulse with an intermixing of tourists and locals inspired by the lights, sounds and tastes of the night. This daytime and nighttime culture cross, contrast and lie upon the pedestal of thousands of years of history, making Beijing not just the cultural and political capital of the country but also the center of the party.
• Alfa is a popular club with a gay night on Fridays which that has been around for a long time, but is still a great night out. Many of the LGBT community come here throughout the week though, as long as you are up for dancing. The drinks are generous, and the inside is typical for a Chinese club: lots of shiny furniture and accessories.
• The same goes for Destination, which is more male-oriented but also welcomes women, and has been around since 2004, when it was the first gay club. Both of these are located in the Sanlitun Area.
• A new addition to the LGBT Nightlife scene is Funky, a popular club located on Gongti Xilu which attracts a lot of youngsters, especially in summer as there is a great rooftop which feels more like a bar than a club and is perfect for a relaxed drink in the summer months. Funky also has some great themed parties ranging from Drag Shows to Neon parties, which are advertised on the website.
• To experience the real underground LGBT Beijing Nightlife head to Kai Club, a combination of a bar and club which, although a little stuffy and with a very young crowd, is still a favorite for many as the drinks are a lot cheaper. It is located on the above-pictured street in Sanlitun.
• If you'd rather go somewhere a little bit quieter, try Two Cities which is a lot calmer and is actually more like a coffee shop than a bar, the perfect location to socialize with all friends or to meet new people.
• For a relaxed bar environment, try Mesh, where the official 'gay night' no longer operates, but a lot of the Beijing LGBT community still likes to go for a much calmer, and more elegant drinking option, also conveniently located in Sanlitun close to many other options.
Shopping in Beijing
Location: about 15 minutes' walk east from Tian'an Men Square
Buses: 10, 20, 37, 41, 59, 99, 140 fast line (104快车), 120, 126, 203 night line (203夜班), 205 night line (205夜班), or 420 to Wangfujing (王府井).
Subway: Line 1 to Wangfujing (王府井).
Recommended time for a visit: one day
Location: 9 Anxiang Dajie, Shunyi District
Buses: 816, Line 14, 855 to Central Art University Design Department(中央美院设计学院站)
Recommended time for a visit: half day
Location: Beijing CBD, Chaoyang District
Buses: 1,57,58,312,405,421,666 to Langjiayuan (郎家园)
Recommended time for a visit: half day
Situated south of Jiangtai Road and east of Jiuxianqiao Road in Chaoyang District, Beijing, INDIGO is a retail-led mixed-use project with a total site area of approximately 59,000 sqm and a total gross floor area of approximately 176,000 sqm. The development includes a shopping mall, a 25-storey Grade A office tower - ONE INDIGO, as well as a lifestyle business hotel with 369 rooms and suites - EAST, Beijing.
The ambience inside INDIGO is designed for international brands to cater to discerning shoppers' every need. Dining options are equally diverse with a great choice of fine restaurants. Meanwhile the 2,400 sqm Winter Garden provides a unique spacious interior space with a sweeping glass rooftop. The Winter Garden also features a wide array of fine restaurants, a large event space, and direct access to the outdoor park with children's playground.
Location: jiuxianqiao road 18 Chaoyang, Beijing
Buses: 516,659,983, to Jiangtai stop( 将台站)
Recommended time for a visit: half day
Location: Chaoyang District
Buses: 31, 302, 431, 677, 682, 731, 750, or 852 to Liulitun (六里屯) or Chaoyang Gongyuan (朝阳公园); or 657, 740, 753, 976, 988, or Yuntong 111 (运通111) to Chaoyang Gongyuan Dongmen (east gate of Chaoyang Park 朝阳公园东门).
Recommended time for a visit: 3 hours
Location: Dongcheng District
Buses: 5, 60, 82, 107, 124, or 210 to Gulou (鼓楼).
Subway: Line 2 to Guloudajie (鼓楼大街).
Recommended time for a visit: half day
Silk market carries just about anything you could imagine. mostly knock off stuff, clothing, bags, watches etc. it is the largest silk/pearl market in Beijing, and you can usually find some pretty good stuff here.
Location: No 8, Silk Market East Street, Chaoyang District, Beijing
Buses: 1,9,43,58,120,126,619,668 to West of Yonganlilukou (永安里路口西)
Recommended time for a visit: one day
Location: east Chaoyang District
Buses: 113, 115 electronic line (电车), 431, 701, or 758 to Sanlitun (三里屯); 117 to Changhongqiao West (长虹桥西); 110, 118 electronic line (118电车), 120, 208 night line (208夜车), 403, 623, or 673 to Beijing Worker's Stadium (北京工人体育场).
Subway: Line 10 to Tuanjiehu (团结湖) or Line 2 to Dongsishitiao (东四十条).
Recommended time for a visit: half day
Location: No 1, Jianguomenwai Avenue, Chaoyang District, Beijing
Buses: 1,9,28,58,619,668, to Dabeiyaolukou west( 大北窑路口西)
Recommended time for a visit: half day
China Highlights suggests you take a trip there at night, when the buildings looks more fabulous. If you want to search for superior commodities and have a great feast of exquisite food go to the Place!
Location: Beijing CBD, Chaoyang District
Buses: 28, 43, 120, or 126 to Fangcaodi (芳草地).
Subway: Line 1 to Yong'anli (永安里) and use Exit B; or Line 10 to Jintaixizhao (金台夕照) taking Exit A.
Recommended time for a visit: half day
Location: about one hour's walk from Tian'an men Square
Buses: 22, 46, 47, 83, 102, 105 electronic line (105电车), 109 electronic line (109电车), 603, 604, 626, 690, 808, or 826 to Xidan (西单).
Subway: Line 1 or 4 to Xidan (西单).
Recommended time for a visit: one day
Location: in front of Gulou Avenue Di'an Men railway station
Buses: 5,635 to zhuzhongchang (铸钟厂)
Recommended time for a visit: half day
Transportation
Airport
Beijing Capital International Airport
Of the five major international airports in China, Beijing Capital International Airport offers the largest number of domestic and international flights. Currently, there are flights to 252 domestic & international destinations. There are at least 50 foreign airlines that have established offices at the airport and link the capital city to every corner of the world. Major direct international destinations include Hongkong, Tokyo, Paris, London and New York. Major direct domestic destinations include Beijing (2 hours), Guangzhou ( 3 hours) and Shenzhen ( 3 hours), among many others.
Beijing Capital International Airport is approximately 25 km northeast of the center of the city. The airport is easily reached by shuttle (RMB 25) and taxi (RMB 70 to 120).The shuttle, operated by the Civil Aviation Authority, is the most economical way to travel to and from the airport, running every 30 minutes from the air-port to various locations in downtown Beijing, and even more frequently from city locations to the airport. Alternatively, taxis to the city( not including suburbs) are available for apporximately RMB 70 ( to Sanlitun) and RMB 120 ( to Tian'anmen). Though taxis in Beijing charge according to a meter, travelers need to pay not only the meter price but also the price of any tolls.
The best way to the airport is taking the Airport Express ( Beijing Subway)
The Airport Express of the Beijing Subway (simplified Chinese:北京地铁机场线;pinyin: Beijing Ditie Jichangxian) is a 28.1 km light rail line that connects the Beijing Capital International Airport with Beijing's urban center. The express line has only four stops: Dongzhimen and Sanyuanqiao in the city, and Terminal 2 and Terminal 3 of the Capital Airport. The line entered into operation on July 19, 2008.
Fare
One-way fare costs RMB 25.
Hours of Operation Airport-bound trains depart from Dongzhimen from 6:00am-10:30pm. City-bound trains depart Terminal 3 from 6:21 am to 10:51pm and Terminal 2 from 6:35am to 11:10pm. A trip from Dongzhimen to Terminal 3 takes 16 minutes.
The Ticket Booking Office of CAAC is located at No.15, Changan Xijie. There are special ticket windows for foreign passengers ( you must present valid documents when buying tickets)
Beijing Capital International Airport (Beijing Shoudu Guoji Jichang)
Inquiry Tel: 6454 1100
Ticket Hotline: 8747 3308/22
Complaint Hotline: 6454 1100
Website: en.bcia.com.cn
Bicycles--Mobike- Smart Sharing Bike for Short-distance Move
Beijing, as a metropolis, like other big cities, has great transportation system but also suffers from traffic congestion. But with the advent of Mobike, a sharing bike for short-distance move, this situation has been improved a lot.
Description
It is an environment-friendly smart sharing bike for short-distance move which you can find easily at nearly every subway station and thriving shopping center or office building. It's user-friendly with cute shape and competitive price of ¥1 for half-an-hour riding and can be left anywhere as long as it will not inconvenience others.
How to Use Mobike
After downloading the App Mobike from App Store in your smart phone and registering with a deposit of ¥299 and some money to top up ,which can be paid through WeChat, you can ride it just by scanning the QR code on its back with your smart phone. You can also use the App to spot a bike that is closest to you. When you don't need it any more, you can just leave it anywhere as long as it will not inconvenience others.
If the system language of your phone settings is English, all relevant information will be shown in English and then you can follow the Mobike User Guide Step by Step.
Please refer to the following pictures:
Bus
Beijing is one the largest metropolises with a comprehensive bus system. There are more than 27,700 public buses, including normal buses, double decker buses,(beginning with Te, te in Chinese means "special") and trolley buses. Beijing's bus system is cheap, convenient and covers the entire city. Fares are cheap, based on distance with a starting price of ¥2, for both non air-conditioned buses and air-conditioned buses(a 50% discount is available by a transportation smart card, which is applicable also for subway and available from bus stations or subway stations). Buses run from 5:00am to 11:00 pm daily at short intervals ( 5 min in peak hours). In general, bus drivers and ticket sellers do not speak English.
Note: normally buses with three doors only permit boarding from the middle door and exiting from the front and the rear doors.
Subway
Beijing's metro system is inarguably the best way to navigate the city, as it's fast, reliable, far & wide-reaching with as many as 16 lines leading to nearly all main places in the city as well as long-operated (Generally from 5:00-23:00). Besides, passengers can avoid the frequent traffic congestions on the surface and language barriers as signs are all in English. Fares start at three yuan. Although quick and convenient, it is good to keep in mind that the crowds are positively heaving at peak hours; especially on the stations that connect many busy lines.
Taking the subway is especially good when going to train stations. You'll find Beijing Railway Station on Line 2, Beijing South Railway Station on Line 4, Beijing West Railway Station on Line 9, Beijing North Railway Station at Xizhimen Station on Lines 2, 4 and 13 and Huangcun Railway Station on the Daxing Line. Taking the subway here is great because it is reliable and the subway stations are generally located so that you are instantly within the same building as the train station. Getting taxis can cause a delay and slow you down.
Taxi
Beijing taxis are dirt cheap when comparing to the taxis of many of the western countries. Although usually reliable, it is good to have your address written down on Chinese characters as many drivers will not recognize the English address and will promptly kick you out of their cab if you can't come to an understanding of the destination. With more than 45,000 taxis in the streets, this is the most common means for visitors to get around Beijing, though as in any urban metropolis, available taxis can be almost impossible to find during rush hour or when it rains. If you are stuck in the rain and can't seem to be able to hail a taxi off the street, there are usually some taxis waiting at the biggest hotels so you can try your luck at one of those - or download the Didi Taxi app to order a cab to where you are.
Train
Although not in Central China, Beijing is probably the best-served city in China with train links. There are over 200 services to and from Beijing. China is however a very large country, and train travel is much slower than by air. There are four large railway stations in Beijing namely Beijing Railway Station, Beijing West Rail Way Station, Beijing South Railway Station and Beijing North Railway Station. These stations have tracks running to most provincial capitals and major cities in mainland China. With the development of High-speed Train, you can get to main cities in China conveniently and quickly. Most of the high-speed trains to South part of China are gathered in Beijing South Railway Station.
Add: Beijingzhan Street, Dongcheng District
Tel: 5101 9999
Add: Lianhuachi East Road, Fengtai District
Tel: 5182 6253
Add: No.12, Yongdingmenwai, Chongwen District
Tel: 5186 7999
Add: North Xizhimen Subway Station, Xicheng District
Tel: 5186 6223
EDUCATION
Moving to another city or country is never easy. Especially when you have been relocated to China, where the immense linguistic and cultural differences can be very overwhelming. If you are moving with your family, one of the biggest concerns is the education for your children. Fortunately in Beijing there are several international schools, kindergartens and bilingual schools with different curriculums and high academic standards.
-
1.International Schools
Beijing boasts one of the largest concentrations of international schools in China. Most schools either follow the International Baccalaureate (IB) curriculum or the curriculum taught in their respective home countries. The primary teaching language is usually English or the language of the school's home country. Standard coursework often does feature local culture, however, and many schools teach Mandarin or Cantonese from a very young age.
International schools can also be expensive. Expats should try to negotiate a place at an appropriate school before arriving in Beijing.
View International Schools -
2.Bilingual Schools
Beijing's private schools tend to either be based on the state model or integrate aspects of foreign curricula. While they predominantly teach in Chinese, some offer instruction in English.
Private schools in Beijing attract students from diverse but generally wealthier backgrounds. Tuition tends to be more costly than that of public schools, but still lower than those of the international schools. As can be expected, it can generally be assumed that the city's bilingual schools offer better facilities and a wider range of extra-curricular activities than state schools.
View Bilingual & Local Schools -
3.International Kindergartens
International kindergartens are very popular among expatriates in China, especially in a city like Beijing. They are spread all over the city which makes them easy to find. They offer better facilities and wider range of activities than local kindergartens. As can be expected, tuition fee is generally more costly than that of local ones.
View International Kindergartens
-
4. Language Institutes
This institutes offer a wide variety of non-degree programs as well as HSK preparation. It is an ideal choice for those expats willing to learn and embrace the chinese language. Several courses are offer and they may vary from institute to institute. In addition they have tailored hours to meet your specific schedule.
-
5. Public Schools
As the Chinese economy and its expat population continues to expand, more foreigners are sending their children to public schools in China. Foreigners are becoming more comfortable with the idea of staying in the country for the long-term, and some want their children to assimilate as well as they can.
As is the case elsewhere, some public schools are better than others. Overall, the best schools in Beijing offer high standards and may even be more competitive and rigorous than the schools in an expat's home country.
-
6.Homeschooling in Beijing
Homeschooling is becoming more popular with locals and expats in China, especially in larger cities such as Beijing. This might be a legitimate option for expats staying in Beijing for the short-term who are unable to afford private or international schools.
Unfortunately, however, homeschooling in China is essentially illegal, and is largely practised based on a legal oversight despite the law explicitly stating that children have to attend a school for at least nine years. The government has become increasingly vocal about its disapproval of homeschooling in recent years and has released numerous statements to this effect. Homeschooled children in China are prevented from writing the gaokao, which essentially means they are unable to attend a Chinese university.
Most Popular Districts for Expats to Live in Beijing
As usually singles and couples prefers to live close to their office or universities which are mostly in the city center, while families with kids would rather choose suburbs due to it's proximity to most of international schools. Of course you can find places to live in most areas in Beijing but the most popular districts among foreigners are Chaoyang, Dongcheng, Haidian and Shunyi.
The most popular sub-districts
The Chaoyang Park area has four main compounds where expats live.
• Park Avenue
• Park Apartment
• Victoria Gardens
• Palm Springs
•4 Kilometers/17 minutes drive to the closest hospital
•24 Kilometers/35 minutes drive to Beijing International Airport
Popular expat compounds in the district are places such as
• Central Park
• CBD Private Castle
• Fortune Plaza
• Fraser Suites CBD (Serviced Apartment)
• Global Trade Mansion
• Millennium Residence (Serviced Apartment)
These compounds all consists of apartments with monthly rentals range from RMB 15,000-36,000 for apartments varying from 1-bedroom layout to 3-bedroom layout.
• 2 Kilometers/10 minutes drive to the closest hospital
• 26 Kilometers/40 minutes drive to Beijing International Airport
The Lufthansa area has three main compounds where expats live
• Gemini Grove
• Beijing SOHO Residence
• United Apartment
•1 Kilometer/15 minutes walk to the closest hospital
•22 Kilometers/30 minutes drive to Beijing International Airport
The Sanlitun area has three main compounds where expats live.
•Sanlitun SOHO
•East Avenue
•Guangcai International Apartment
•2 Kilometers/5 minutes drive to the closest hospital
•24 Kilometers/50 minutes drive to Beijing International Airport
The Wangjing area has three main compounds where expats live
• Baoxing Residences
• Dong Hu Wan
•5 Kilometer/20 minutes drive to Beijing United Family Hospital
•20 Kilometers/27 minutes drive to Beijing International Airport
Dongcheng District has five main compounds where expats live
• Pop Moma
• Oakwood Residences (Serviced Apartment)
• East Gate Plaza (Serviced Apartment)
• Ascott Raffles (Serviced Apartment)
These compounds consist of apartments and service apartments with monthly rentals range from RMB 10,000-50,000 for units varying from studio layout to 4-bedroom layout. Courtyards in this area are also popular among some expats, especially those near Gulou and Houhai. Most of them are houses featuring traditional appearance and modern decoration and equipments with nice yard located in quiet alley surrounded by thriving business. Rentals for them ranges from RMB16,000 to RMB 50,000 according to size and status.
The Central Villa District has five main compounds containing both villas and apartments where expats live
• River Garden Villa
• Orchid Garden
• Grand Hills
• Capital Paradise
These compounds consist of villas with monthly rentals range from RMB 25,000-50,000 for villas varying from 3-bedroom layout to 4-bedroom layout.
Key Distances:
•0.5-6.5 Kilometer/8 minutes walk or 15 minutes drive to the closest hospital
•9-13 Kilometer/22-30 minutes drive to Beijing International Airport
Living in Beijing
- Overview of Beijing
- Climate
- Culture
- Life Service
- Education
- Festival
- Living Conditions
- Property Types
- Healthcare
- Recreation
- Shopping
- Transportation