Beijing is a fascinating mix of dynamism and history, offering unique sights and experiences to visitors. Here’s our guide to making the most of your trip to China’s capital.</em></p> Where old meets new</strong></strong></p> Beijing has a dynamic and fast-evolving spirit, combined with a rich cultural history. Over 22 million people call Beijing home, with the city acting as an economic, cultural and technological innovation hub.</p> A centre for global finance</strong></strong></p> Beijing is a driving force in shaping the future of the global economy and a leading financial centre, attracting investment from around the world.</p> Recognised as the national financial management centre, Beijing hosts almost all of China’s financial decision making and management institutions. The city is also home to the world’s biggest four financial institutions by total assets and the largest number of Fortune Global 500 companies in the world.</p> Innovation and high-quality services are central to Beijing’s financial sector, creating the perfect setting for Sibos 2024.</p> Exploring the city</strong></p> The Sibos programme will keep you busy, but if you find yourself with downtime there’s plenty to explore.</p> If you love food, you’re in luck. Exploring Beijing’s culinary scene is one of the best ways to traverse this extraordinary city. With its hundreds of restaurants, the hutong neighbourhoods of the Dongcheng District aren’t to be missed. Built during the dynastic period, the hutongs will propel you into the Beijing of old, as alleyways and courtyards intertwine in tightly packed neighbourhoods. Jiaozi (Chinese dumplings), Peking duck and the eight traditional Chinese cuisines are all on the menu, tucked away within a myriad of lanes offering cuisine from across the country. </p> Hosted at the China National Convention Centre, Sibos is heading to Beijing’s Chaoyang district. Home to Beijing’s rapidly growing central business district, visitors to Chaoyang can spot iconic landmarks including CCTV Headquarters and the China World Trade Center. Beyond Chaoyang’s economic vitality, sophisticated shoppers can head to Taikoo Li for the globe’s biggest brands, or search out antiques at Panjiyuan Antique Market. For something more tranquil, head to the scenic Liangma River. Along a 10-kilometre stretch, the Liangma boasts plenty of cafes and bars, and supports a diverse range of wildlife.</p> A trip to the Beijing Olympic Green is a view into the city’s modern personality. The 80,000 capacity National Stadium, better known as the ‘Bird’s Nest’, is an impressive steel structure and the focal point of the park. Beijing is the only city in the world to have hosted both the Summer and Winter Olympics, in some way reflecting the city’s distinct seasons. Don’t worry though! Temperatures and humidity levels are usually mild in October, when Sibos takes place.</p> Other top attractions</strong></strong></p> No trip to Beijing can skip the Forbidden City. Spanning 74 hectares and separated from the rest of Beijing by moat, the Forbidden City is the world’s largest palace complex. Offering visitors classical Chinese gardens, galleries of historic treasures and stunning imperial architecture, the Forbidden City is a powerful representation of China’s cultural heritage in the centre of Beijing.</p> For another dose of history, head to the Temple of Heaven in Dongcheng South. The temple, a place for the Ming and Qing emperors to worship the gods and pray for favourable weather for farming, was built in 1420.</p> If you’re interested in Beijing’s artistic side, look no further than the 798 Art Zone. Located in the northeast of the city, you’ll find world-class contemporary art in the industrial setting of decommissioned Bauhaus-style factory buildings. Representing a modern side to this fast-advancing city, expect to also see street art, and enjoy specialty coffee and al fresco dining. </p> There’s something special on Beijing’s doorstep too. Stretching over 20,000 kilometres, the Great Wall of China is an unmissable sight. One of the seven wonders of the ancient world, several well-preserved sections are open to the public. Just a 20-minute bullet train ride outside of Beijing, the Badaling section is most popular with visitors. If you have more time, consider heading further afield to a section such as Juyongguan or Mutianyu. There are many options to choose from!</p> We can’t wait for you to join us at Sibos from 21 – 24 October! Register now</a></em> to get your pass.</em> For more information on Beijing, please visit the international web portal of Beijing</a> and the Visit Beijing</a> website.</em></p>