School trips to Beijing

Why visit Beijing?

One of the oldest cities in the world

Beijing is one of the ‘Four Great Ancient Capitals of China’ – in fact, it’s one of the oldest cities in the world, with a history dating back three millennia! But it’s also the capital of modern China, a Communist state with one of the world’s fastest growing economies. The balance between these two identities is fascinating to explore.

On your school trip to Beijing, you will, of course, be able to explore some of Beijing’s many historic and cultural sites.

The Forbidden City is a must-visit. This huge palatial complex is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is made up of 980 buildings. Here, your students will learn more about the history and culture of imperial China and the importance of the Emperor. You’ll also be able to see some exquisite examples of Chinese art, including porcelain, jade and paintings.

And a visit to the Great Wall of China is not to be missed either. This incredible feat of human engineering stretches 5,500 miles across northern China. Not only was it used to keep enemies out of China, it was also used for border control and to impose taxes on goods being transported along the Silk Road.

Back in the city, any groups interested in the more recent political history of China must take the time to visit Tiananmen Square. The impressive gate after which the square takes its name was once the gateway to the Forbidden City, but the square itself is now considered a symbol of the People’s Republic of China, as this is where the republic was declared by Mao Zedong in 1949.

A huge portrait of Mao Zedong has hung on the gate since then and both Mao’s Mausoleum and the Great Hall of the People, where the Chinese parliament sits, are located on the edge of the square.

Immerse yourselves in Chinese culture

You can be certain that a Mandarin school trip to Beijing will leave your students with lifelong memories thanks to the incredible experiences on offer here, from watching an acrobatics show to tasting the incredible cuisine and exploring the many impressive historic sites.

You’ll be accompanied by a local guide throughout who will be able to explain the local culture and customs as you explore, helping you to get the maximum out of your school trip to Beijing.

Get your students speaking Mandarin

Where better than Beijing for a school trip designed to get your Mandarin language students talking?

As you explore Beijing, soaking up the rich culture and learning more about the city’s history, your students will have plenty of opportunities to practise their Mandarin language skills.

By using the language to explore the history and culture, your students will have an unforgettable experience of Beijing and China that will not only fuel a passion for all things Chinese, but will also show them how learning a language can provide you with an experience of a country and its culture that is on another level.