Study Abroad in Beijing
Located in China, the most populated country in the world, Beijing serves as not only the capital but also as the government and culture center. Recently made popular as the site of the 2008 Olympic Games, Beijing is a beautiful place with many different things to do and places to see. But don’t let the beauty fool you, the education is also top notch. China is known to have some of the most intelligent students in the world due to their rigorous education from China’s fabulous schools. If you’re looking for the best quality education set in a historical and beautiful city then look no further, Beijing is waiting! For cheap student airfare to Beijing check out StudentUniverse.com.
Beijing Pictures
Things to do in Beijing
Beijing is known for it’s cultural architecture and rich history. The best way to experience Beijing is by bicycle, which can be rented from many different spots in the city. Beware of the cars as the Chinese may drive differently than you are used to. Also, be sure to see the great historical landmarks in Beijing: the Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square, Temple of Heaven, Summer Palace, Beijing Zoo and Aquarium, Beihai Park, Yonghegong, Prince Gong’s Mansion and Garden, and National Museum of China. Check out the Temple of Heaven where, if you go early enough, you can see thousands of Beijingers starting their day with tai chi. There is also great massage parlors throughout the city which offer great foot messages at a fraction of the price of those in the West. Make sure the place is professional- the best place to go is the Beijing Hotel. If you’re a fan of music check out the Beijing Opera at the Laoshe Tea House, west of Qianmen Station. There you can really get into the Chinese culture with free afternoon shows or longer evening shows. If you want to enjoy the later show be sure to book it in advance as it fills up quickly.
Nightlife in Beijing
Beijing has some very different nightlife options then most other cities. People in Beijing love their tea just like people in the US like beer. Many college students in Beijing can be found in various tea houses at night. Also, Sanlitun, the center of Beijing nightlife, is located besides the embassy area in Chaoyang district. There you can find the “bar street” with its north and south sections, a side street with more casual and cheaper bars, and several large clubs at the near-by north gate of the Worker’s Stadium. Although very touristy it is nearly world famous and is not a spot to miss!
Colleges and Classes in Beijing
Beijing is known as the high learning hot spot of China. It attracts the top minds of the world each year to many of its fine universities. Most of the universities are clustered in the Haidian District in the northwestern part of Beijing. Just about all of the programs available for foreign students require you to take Chinese foreign language. The most popular universities in Beijing include Tsinghua University, Peking University, Renmin University of China, Beijing Language and Culture University, University of International Business and Economics, Beijing Normal University, China Media University, and Beijing University of Science and Technology. All have websites where you can find information about the majors and application process.
Travel From Beijing
The best place to get out and experience the outside of Beijing is the Great Wall of China. Just a short 1.5 hour bus ride from the city, the Great Wall offers a great walking path with spectacular views. Be careful though as there are many bus scams operating in China. Be sure to bring a jacket as it can get quite cold in the winter and water as it is extremely hot in the summer.
Beijing Study Abroad Tips
- The primary language is Mandarin Chinese.
- Beware of fake money, there are a lot of counterfeit bills in circulation.
- Consider wearing a white face mask. Beijing has some of the worst pollution of any city.
