Experience the culture at the Xuannan Festival

Beijing which is the administrative capital of China is also its cultural heart; this city has seen thousands of years Chinese history take place within its streets and houses and is one of the best places in China to experience some of the cultural festivals that are celebrated with much pomp and pageantry. As Beijing has been the Chinese capital for centuries it has also become an unofficial custodian for local culture and festivals thus within Beijing is the reverberation of thousands of years of complex practices which has endeared this city to many tourists.

The Beijing Xuannan which is held in October and runs on through to the month of November is a celebration of the city’s unique identity and is also an opportunity for travelers to understand the culture of the region. The festival is carried out in the Xuanwu District which many consider to be the birthplace of Beijing.

This district which lies to the south west of the city, in ancient times it was located just outside the inner Imperial city which was reserved for the ruling class and the palaces of the Emperor. Thus, the Xuanwu district is thought to have been the residential areas that housed the lower classes of Chinese society during that time. However, the area has changed rapidly through out the ages and has been the cynosure of a revival in culture and art following Mao’s Cultural Revolution. To date, the districts biggest claim to fame can be the Peking Opera which was developed in the 18th century and is an amalgamation of traditional performance arts such as drama, music, dance, mime and acrobatics.

Today, the Xuannan Festival celebrates not only the cultural contribution of the Xuanwu region but also the cultural renaissance in the whole of the Chinese mainland. Among the activities at this year’s festival will be the Culture Tour, the traditional cultural performances week and the creative cultures week. Guests staying at a Beijing Hotel such as the Grand Millennium Beijing will be able to experience this festival during their stay. Guests can also take advantage of Beijing hotel deals during this season that promote this event.

Captivating Tanzhisi Temple Zen Tea Culture Festival

The Tanzhisi Temple Zen Tea Culture Festival is a unique festival which will draw the interest of the visitor. Located in the environs of Beijing, the Tanzhisi Temple presents its annual celebration which is intended to introduce the new generation and visitors from abroad to the traditional Chinese tea ceremony. During this event guests may sample such delights as the Tanzhisi Zen Tea and the special Tanzhisi prime cake.
Selective travellers seeking Beijing accommodation will be pleased by the Ascott Beijing. A luxury apartment in Beijing provided by this fine rest offers well-appointed furnishings and gracious hospitality.

National Stadium (Bird’s Nest) – The Legacy of Beijing Olympics

One of the largest and most populous cities in the world, Beijing is a city which awes the visitor. As the capital of China it is the political, cultural and commercial hub of the country.  This is a metropolis with a long history of being the political centre of China for centuries. When in Beijing you can’t miss the majestic palaces, temples and shrines, and huge stone walls and gates that exhibit the proud history and traditions of the Chinese people. The Forbidden City in Beijing where the emperors of Ming and Qing dynasties resided is a fine example of the majestic heritage that belongs to the city.

National Stadium also known as the Bird’s Nest is a must see when in the Chinese capital. This remarkable stadium was built for the 2008 Olympic Games held in the city. The imaginative Bird’s Nest is the creation of three architects, two from Switzerland and one from China. The stadium has been designed in such a way so as to give the feeling that it is a protective nest where hopes of future athletes are moulded and embraced. This was used as the venue for the opening and closing ceremonies, and track and field events in the 2008 Beijing Olympics. Today the Bird’s Nest is mainly used to hold world class football games. This is a spectacular sight to see and you will be awed by the admirable capabilities of the people of China.

The Chinese capital is a city where you will find the best and the most variety of Chinese cuisine. There are streets full of carts selling all sorts of street food including rice, noodles and a myriad of meats. You might want to try the Beijing roast duck, a speciality found in restaurants in the city. Most of the hotels offer international cuisine in their restaurants as well.

A Beijing hotel will take care of all your needs and help you to relax in oriental luxury. Close to the Forbidden City hotels can be found to suit your requirements and budget. The Peninsula Beijing is one such option where you can dine in elegant restaurants and relax at a comforting spa.