Beijing is the capital of the People’s Republic of China with an estimated population of 15 million. It’s name, designated by the third Ming emperor, means ‘œnorthern capital’. A shortened version is ‘Ji’. Because it was improperly pronounced in the West, the city was known as ‘Peking’ for many years. Beijing is known for its parks, artificial lakes and temples and contains many fine examples of architecture from the Ming and Qing dynasties.

Beijing is one of the most vibrant cities in China and the hub of its future. Though many older conclaves of the ancient city are quickly being replaced by modern skyscrapers, the historic hutong quarter with its narrow alleyways still winds throughout the city. Hutongs are created by walls of the courtyard houses grouped together where the well-to-do once lived. Today they are state owned and many Beijing residents still live here.