How to go around the capital city in just 10 yuan

(China Daily)
Updated: 2009-11-18 11:18

Imagine if you only have 10 yuan at hand, is it possible to visit some of the must-see sights in Beijing? The answer is yes if you take the subway.

Let's say you start from Tian'anmen Square. But before moving on, make sure you have not missed the major historical and cultural complex there.

Qianmen main street is a 846-meter-long street with well-known domestic and foreign brands in clothing and catering. The north end of the street is Qianmen, formerly the front gate of the ancient imperial city.

There is also a side street marked by a wrought-iron gate, which is known as "Dashilan", an ancient lane home to shops and eateries with history dating back to the Qing Dynasty (1644-1911).

Tian'anmen Square - Panjiayuan

Take Line 1 and exchange for Line 10 at Guomao Station. Get off at Jingsong Station and Panjiayuan is just 10-minute walk away. (2 yuan)

Beijing Panjiayuan Antique Market is located at the southwest of Panjiayuan bridge, Chaoyang district. Covering an area of 48,500 sq m, it is a trading venue for antiques, handicrafts, ornaments, stone engravings, ancient architecture and other collections. It is free for entry, but you may need to watch out for your money in case you want to buy any goods at the market, which is very popular with fake commodities.

Panjiayuan - Olympic Park

Take Line 10 and exchange for Line 8 at Beitucheng Station. Get off at Olympic Park. (2 yuan)

Here you will be treated to iconic Olympic venues including the Bird's Nest Stadium and the Water Cube. That won't cost you any money if you just take a walk around those grand architecture.

Olympic Park - Peking University

Take Line 8 and exchange for Line 10 and then exchange for Line 4 at Haidianhuangzhuang Station. Get off at the East Gate of Peking University. (2 yuan)

It is one of the most prestigious universities in China. Throughout its history, the university has distinguished itself from its peers in terms of intellectual freedom.

Peking University - Caishikou

Take Line 4 and get off at Caishikou Station. (2 yuan)

Caishikou is a crowd drawer with many famous spots. To the north is Liulichang Cultural Street, where nearly every shop sells paintings, calligraphic works and antiques. To the west is Caibai Shopping Mall, the most famous jewelry market in Beijing.

To the east is Huguang Clubhouse, where you can view classic performance arts such as Peking Opera, Kunqu Opera and cross talks.

Caishikou - Tian'anmen

Take Line 4 and exchange for Line 1 at Xidan Station. Get off at Tian'anmen. Now you are back. (2 yuan)