Beijing is the unquestioned capital of China. Though it lags behind Hong Kong and Shanghai in terms of economic firepower, the soul of the nation resides here. It has been this way for centuries. Genghis Khan's grandson, Kublai Khan, established the city of Beijing as his capital in 1278. After the Ming dynasty overthrew the Yuans, Yongle, the Ming emperor, relocated his capital to Beijing to capitalize on its more strategic northern position. It was Yongle who authorized the construction of the Forbidden City and the Temple of Heaven, both of which still stand today. It was also the Mings who authorized construction of the Great Wall of China.

The Qing Dynasty took over in 1644 and built on China's feudal tradition. However, its power eroded over the centuries, and China was subject to war and foreign occupation for the better part of a hundred years. It wasn't until Chairman Mao declared the birth of the People's Republic of China in 1949 that things began to settle down again in China. Mao's contributions to China are still fresh. Look at the communist monuments in Tiananmen Square, designed to make the individual feel small in comparison to the state.

While Beijing can be enjoyed by every traveler, it truly rewards the adventurous soul. It's a safe city, with plenty of room for exploration. Although you'll be tempted to spend most of your time near Tiananmen Square and the Forbidden City, it is best not to limit yourself. There is plenty to see around the city's outskirts, and a short trip to the Great Wall is a must.