The Great Wall of China – Skip crowded Badaling and head to the Mutianyu section early morning for stunning photos without the tourist masses.

The Forbidden City – Enter through the less-used East Prosperity Gate entrance to avoid the main crowds at Tiananmen Square.

Temple of Heaven – Visit at dawn to watch locals practicing tai chi, playing traditional instruments, and dancing in the surrounding park.

Summer Palace – Take a small boat across Kunming Lake for the most picturesque views of this former imperial retreat.

Hutongs (Old Beijing Alleyways) – Nanluoguxiang hutong has the charm without the overwhelming tourist presence of more famous alleyways.

798 Art District – Sunday afternoons feature the most gallery openings and artist appearances at this thriving contemporary art zone.

Lama Temple – Purchase incense outside the temple for half the price and visit during a weekday morning to experience monks in prayer.

Olympic Park – The structures are most impressive when illuminated at night, particularly the Bird’s Nest and Water Cube.

Beihai Park – Climb to the White Dagoba on Qionghua Island for a panoramic view of the Forbidden City that even many locals don’t know about.

Jingshan Park – The perfect sunset spot offering unparalleled city views, best visited in late afternoon when local seniors gather to sing traditional opera.