Inspire a passion for Chinese culture and the Mandarin language in China's ancient capital!
School trips to Beijing offer students the unforgettable opportunity to explore an incredibly rich, ancient culture!
Most popular among Mandarin language groups and geography groups, school trips to Beijing are also fantastic opportunity for any school group looking to broaden the horizons and cultural experiences of the students.
Whatever your reason for choosing an educational visit to Beijing, we’ll ensure your trip is tailor made to suit your specific requirements and learning objectives.
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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.
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Why choose Halsbury?
We build your trip around you
Tell us your learning objectives, curriculum and budget and we’ll do the rest.
Contact usWe’re trusted for a reason
We’re members of ABTA, ABTOT and the School Travel Forum. We also hold an ATOL and the LOtC Quality Badge.
Read moreOur Education specialists
Laura Lucas
Tour Consultant
Paul Hudson
Tour Consultant
Laura Martin
Language Sales & Product Manager
Emma Gray da Silva
Tour Consultant
Meet our education specialists and get to know more about the people committed to making your school trip the best it can be.
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09 Jan 2018
Check out our guide to etiquette in China before you travel, to make sure your group is prepared!
FAQs
How long should we spend in Beijing on a school trip?
We would recommend spending around 6-8 days on your school trip to China, depending on whether you will also be visiting Shanghai.
What's the best time to visit Beijing on a school trip?
Beijing really is a fantastic destination for a school trip at any time of the year.
What's the best way to get around Beijing?
Beijing is a megacity and so the best way to get around really will be the comfortable coach we will provide you with for use throughout your tour.
Which visits are a must on a school trip to Beijing?
On your school trip to Beijing, you certainly won't want to miss the opportunity to visit Tiananmen Square, the Forbidden City, the Summer Palace, the Great Wall of China and the Ming Tombs.
Are there any free things to do in Beijing?
Yes, there are a few free things to do in Beijing. For example, you could take a stroll through some traditional Hutongs, which are the traditional housing areas of Beijing. And visiting Tiananmen Square is, of course, completely free. You could also visit the Olympic Park and the famous Birdnest Stadium - if you go in the evening, the buildings are all lit up beautifully.
Can I arrange a cross-curricular school trip to Beijing?
Yes, you can! Beijing is a fantastic destination for both geography and Mandarin.
Do I need a visa to visit Beijing?
Yes, British citizens do need a visa to enter China. For further information, please see the [FCDO website](https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/china).
