Beijing, a metropolis in northern China, is the capital of the People's Republic of China (PRC). It was formerly known in English as Peking or Peiking. Beijing is one of the Four Great Ancient capitals of China. It will also host the 2008 Summer Olympics. Although more known for its political significance in the West, the Tian'anmen (Gate of Heavenly Peace) has long been one of the most important tourist sites of Beijing, both by itself and as the main entrance to the Forbidden City. Within the square are the Great Hall of the People, the National Museum of China and the Mausoleum of Mao Zedong.
Other world-renowned sites include the Badaling section of the Great Wall of China, the Summer Palace, and the Temple of Heaven. Other attractions include: the Lugou Bridge (Marco Polo Bridge), Zheng Yici Peking Opera Theatre, the Beijing Ancient Observatory and the historic Hutongs and Siheyuans in many older neighborhoods. There are also many temples and churches in Beijing, some of them World Heritage Sites. Outside of the Beijing metro area you should visit the Ming Dynasty Tombs (World Heritage Site) and the Peking Man Site at Zhoukoudian (World Heritage Site). Many tourist areas in Beijing are under renovation for the 2008 Olympics. The Forbidden City and the Summer Palace all had sections under renovation as of the middle of March 2006. Renovations on the Temple of Heaven are completed. As a plus, ticket prices were reduced for sights under renovation. Just be aware that prior to the Olympics there may be continued renovations.
