Beijing

To understand China, there is no better place than its capital, Beijing. It is the second-largest city in China and has been China's ancient and modern capital for over 800 years.

The Temple of Heaven is a pre-Qing attraction with traditional architecture decidedly different from the Palace. Apparently, its religious purpose was more druidic in nature, as compared to the other temples, with harvest ceremonies, sun and moon festivals, and more.

The Summer Palace is said to be the best preserved imperial garden in the world, and the largest of its kind still in existence in China.