12 Awesome Things To Do In Beijing Airport

Beijing Airport, one of the busiest transportation hubs in the world, is not just a layover destination. With its sleek architecture, innovative technology, and abundance of amenities, this airport offers a wealth of experiences that are sure to capture the attention of even the most seasoned traveler. From indulging in local cuisine to exploring cultural exhibits, here are twelve awesome things to do in Beijing Airport that will make your layover unforgettable.

Visit the Olympic Forest Park

Beijing is home to one of the busiest and largest airports in the world – the Beijing Capital International Airport. With millions of people passing through its gates annually, it's no surprise that the city has a lot to offer both tourists and locals.

One of Beijing's must-see attractions is the Olympic Forest Park, which is located just a few kilometers from the airport. This vast park covers an area of 680 hectares and was built in 2008 in preparation for the Beijing Olympics. It is one of the greenest, tranquil and peaceful spots in the city.

The park is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, with over 300,000 trees and 47 species of animals. There are several lakes within the park, including the picturesque North Lake and Olympic Lake, which are perfect for boating, fishing, and picnicking.

Visitors can take a stroll or hire bicycles to explore the various trails and paths in the park. If you're looking for a more relaxed mode of transport, there’s also a shuttle train available which runs along the park's inner roads.

For sports enthusiasts, the Olympic Forest Park offers a wide range of sports facilities including tennis, basketball, volleyball, and football fields. There are also several jogging tracks and exercise areas available for those looking to work out.

One of the park’s most popular attractions is the 1,000 square meter Multifunctional Playground which is perfect for families traveling with kids. It features various playground equipment, including swings, slides, monkey bars, and seesaws.

The Olympic Forest Park also boasts a Beijing Garden Expo area, which showcases traditional Chinese garden design, plants, and culture. Here, you will find elaborate walkways, stone bridges, ponds, and small pagodas amid lush landscaped gardens.

In conclusion, if you're traveling through Beijing's Capital International Airport, take some time to visit the Olympic Forest Park for a refreshing break after your flight. With its stunning lakes, wide variety of vegetation, sports facilities, and child-friendly attractions, this park is the perfect place for anyone looking for a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.

Try authentic Chinese cuisine at the Food Court

As one of the busiest airports in the world, Beijing Airport has a lot to offer to its passengers. From a wide range of shopping options to some amazing dining experiences, the airport has it all. One of the highlights of the Beijing Airport is the Food Court where passengers can indulge in some authentic Chinese cuisine.

The Food Court is located in Terminal 3 of the Beijing Airport and is easily accessible from all the gates. It offers a wide range of dining options, including some of the most popular Chinese dishes. Whether you are in the mood for some traditional Beijing roast duck or some spicy Sichuan cuisine, the Food Court has got you covered.

One of the most popular Chinese restaurants in the Food Court is the Grandma's Kitchen, which specializes in home-style cooking. The restaurant offers a wide range of Chinese dishes, including stir-fried vegetables, braised pork, and spicy tofu. The food is prepared fresh and is always full of flavor, making it a must-try for anyone visiting the Food Court.

Another great restaurant in the Food Court is the Laobian Dumpling. As the name suggests, the restaurant specializes in dumplings and offers a variety of fillings, from pork and chives to shrimp and pork. The dumplings are steamed fresh and are served with a side of soy sauce and vinegar, making it the perfect snack for anyone on-the-go.

For those who are looking for something a little more upscale, the Crystal Jade La Mian Xiao Long Bao is the perfect choice. The restaurant offers a wide range of dishes, including their famous Xiao Long Bao, which are soup-filled dumplings. The restaurant also serves a range of other dishes, including stir-fried noodles and spicy beef.

In addition to these restaurants, the Food Court also offers a range of international cuisines, including Italian and Japanese. So, no matter what your taste buds crave, you're sure to find something to satisfy your hunger at the Food Court.

Overall, if you're looking to try some authentic Chinese cuisine, the Food Court at Beijing Airport is the perfect place. With so many different restaurants to choose from, you're sure to find something that will leave you wanting more. So, next time you're passing through the airport, be sure to check out the Food Court and indulge in some delicious Chinese food.

Admire ancient artifacts at the Capital Museum

Beijing Airport is one of the busiest airports in the world, serving millions of passengers every year with flights to and from destinations across the globe. While waiting for your flight at Beijing Airport, there are plenty of things to do and see in the surrounding area. One of the must-visit destinations close to Beijing Airport is the Capital Museum, which is located about 30 minutes away by car.

The Capital Museum is a treasure trove of Chinese culture and art, and it is home to over 200,000 ancient artifacts that date back thousands of years. The museum is spread over 63,000 square meters and has four floors, each dedicated to a specific era in Chinese history.

The first floor of the Capital Museum is dedicated to the prehistoric era, displaying artifacts that have been recovered from various archaeological sites in China. You can see items such as pottery, jade carvings, and bronze offerings that date back to the Neolithic Age.

The second floor of the museum focuses on the dynastic era of Chinese history, with exhibits that span from the Xia Dynasty (about 2100 BC-1600 BC) to the Ming and Qing dynasties (1368-1911). Here, visitors can admire exquisite artifacts such as imperial robes, porcelain, and bronze ware.

The third floor of the museum is dedicated to the development of modern Beijing, showcasing various aspects such as the city's culture, industry, and modern architecture. Visitors can also learn about the influences of Western culture on Beijing.

Finally, the fourth floor of the Capital Museum is dedicated to temporary exhibitions, which change from time to time. These exhibitions may showcase contemporary art or more specific topics, such as Chinese fashion.

Admission to the museum is free, but some temporary exhibitions may require an entrance fee. The museum is closed on Mondays but is open on all other days from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm.

In conclusion, if you have some time to spare during a layover at Beijing Airport, a visit to the Capital Museum is highly recommended. It's an opportunity to discover the rich history and culture of China while admiring ancient artifacts that have stood the test of time.

Go shopping at United Duty-Free

If you are flying in or out of Beijing Capital International Airport, make sure to stop by the United Duty-Free shop for some shopping. It's one of the best places to buy souvenirs, gifts, and luxury items that are both affordable and of excellent quality.

The store offers a wide range of products, including fragrances, cosmetics, skincare products, leather goods, jewelry, watches, sunglasses, and more. You'll find items from popular brands like Chanel, Dior, Prada, Gucci, and Burberry, as well as exclusive collections from Chinese designers and artisans.

One of the best things about United Duty-Free is that it provides competitive prices for its products. That means that you can expect some discounts or deals that you may not find elsewhere. Plus, the shop runs promotions frequently, so be sure to check them out before you make a purchase.

If you are not sure which product to choose, you can always ask the friendly and knowledgeable staff to assist you. They speak English and Mandarin and can guide you through the various product lines or help you find the perfect gift for your loved ones back home.

Apart from purchasing your favorite items, you can also earn miles if you are a member of the airport's loyalty program. The more you shop at United Duty-Free, the more points you get, which can be redeemed for airport services, flight tickets, retail vouchers, and more.

In summary, United Duty-Free at Beijing Airport is a must-visit shopping destination for travelers looking for great deals and high-quality products. Come and explore the store's vast selection and enjoy a hassle-free shopping experience.

Relax in a spa or massage chair

Beijing airport is one of the busiest airports in the world. It handles millions of passengers every year who are either arriving or departing from Beijing. As a result, the airport has come up with innovative ways to keep the passengers comfortable, relaxed and entertained during their stay at the airport. One such way is by providing spa and massage services to the passengers.

With the increase in the number of passengers, Beijing airport has undergone a transformation in recent years. Nowadays, the airport not only caters to business and logistics but also offers relaxation and leisure options to the passengers who may need it. One of the best ways to unwind after a long and tiring journey is by pampering oneself with spa or massage services.

The airport offers several options to passengers when it comes to spa or massage services. Passengers can choose from a wide variety of services like foot massages, body massages, facial treatments, hair treatments and more. One of the best and most convenient ways to avail these services is by using the spa and massage chairs that are scattered around the airport.

The massage chairs at the airport are located in different areas and are available to passengers for use. These chairs provide an excellent way for passengers to relax and unwind before their next flight. The chairs are designed to provide a comfortable and soothing massage to passengers. They come equipped with different massage modes that let the passengers choose the type of massage they want. Some chairs also have added features like built-in speakers for listening to music or watching a movie while getting a massage.

In addition to massage chairs, Beijing airport also has luxury spas that offer a more personalised spa experience to passengers. These spas provide various services like hot stone massages, aromatherapy, foot and body treatments, and other wellness packages. One can either book appointments in advance or just walk-in and enjoy a relaxed atmosphere with professional spa and massage services.

In conclusion, Beijing airport has taken passenger comfort and relaxation to a whole new level with its wide range of spa and massage services. From massage chairs to luxury spas, passengers have plenty of options to choose from. These services are an excellent way to take some time off and recharge before or after a long flight. So the next time you are transiting through Beijing airport, don't forget to make use of their spa and massage services and rejuvenate yourself for your next journey.

Explore the Aviation Museum

Beijing is home to one of the largest and busiest airports in the world – the Beijing Capital International Airport. While most people use this airport for traveling to different parts of the world or entering China, there’s another hidden gem inside the airport complex that aviation enthusiasts should explore – the Aviation Museum.

The Beijing Aviation Museum is located near the airport’s Terminal 3, and it's a must-visit destination for all aviation enthusiasts. The museum displays a large collection of aircraft, including old planes, helicopters, model planes, and satellites.

One of the museum's sections is dedicated to the Wright Brothers, who were the pioneers of aviation. The exhibition showcases models and artifacts of their first planes and gliders, as well as their historical flight in 1903. Aviation enthusiasts can explore the development of aviation from the Wright Brothers' era to the modern-day jumbo jets.

The museum also has an impressive collection of military planes, including fighter jets and bombers. One of the most remarkable planes on display is the Shenyang J-6, which was the first fighter jet produced in China. Visitors can learn about the planes’ extraordinary features, history, and modes of attack.

The Aviation Museum’s collection also includes historic Chinese planes, many of which were built with great care and attention by Chinese craftsmen. One of the planes on display is a model of the C-47, which was used to transport troops to the battlefields during the Chinese Civil War.

The museum provides visitors with information in both Chinese and English, ensuring that every visitor can enjoy exploring the aviation history. The exhibition is well organized, and the museum is spacious, making it an excellent place for visitors to spend a few hours.

Admission to the Aviation Museum is affordable, making it accessible for everyone. Visitors can also take guided tours or audio tours with a small additional fee.

In conclusion, if you're a fan of aviation history and want to explore some exciting exhibits, the Beijing Aviation Museum is a great place to visit. This museum is not only educational but also entertaining and engaging, and a must-visit destination for any plane enthusist visiting Beijing. Next time you're at the Beijing Capital International Airport, make sure to explore the Aviation Museum and learn about the fascinating history of aviation.

Catch a movie at the IMAX theater

If you have a layover at Beijing Airport, consider visiting the IMAX theater located in Terminal 3. Catching a movie there is a great way to pass the time and experience a new aspect of Chinese culture.

The IMAX theater in Beijing Airport is one of the few airport cinemas in the world, and it offers a unique experience for travelers. The theater is equipped with advanced sound and video systems, providing an immersive movie-watching experience. The screens are larger than normal cinema screens, and the sound is specially calibrated to create a realistic and impressive surround sound effect.

This type of cinema is perfect for watching large-scale blockbusters, documentaries, and even short films. The content of the movies varies, and you can catch a range of different genres depending on the day. Some popular movies shown are Chinese action films or nature documentaries. You can check the program on their website or at the theater’s entrance.

In addition to the traditional movie-going experience, the IMAX theater also provides comfortable seating options, which makes it an ideal spot for travelers to relax before their flight. The seats are arranged in a stadium-style format, giving every viewer a clear view of the screen. There are even blankets provided to keep you warm if it gets chilly in the theater.

Another bonus of watching a movie at Beijing Airport’s IMAX theater is the popcorn. You can purchase hot and delicious popcorn, as well as other snacks and drinks, to enjoy during the movie.

Overall, catching a movie at the IMAX theater in Beijing Airport is an excellent way to pass the time and experience Chinese culture. The visual and audio quality of the theater is among the best in the world, and the comfortable seating and delicious snacks create a relaxing and enjoyable atmosphere. So, next time you have a layover at the airport, consider checking out the cinema and dive into the world of cinema.

Take a nap in one of the airport lounges

Beijing Capital International Airport is the busiest airport in China and one of the largest in the world. With a large number of passengers passing through its gates every day, it can often become quite busy and hectic. However, if you find yourself with a long layover or an early morning flight, there is a solution to the chaos of the airport – taking a nap in one of the airport lounges.

Beijing Capital International Airport has a number of lounges available for passengers to rest and relax in. These lounges are available for both domestic and international passengers, and are located throughout the airport. Some of the lounges are operated by airlines while others are independent lounges.

The lounges offer a variety of facilities and services, including comfortable seating, free Wi-Fi, snacks, beverages, and even shower facilities in some cases. Additionally, some lounges offer private nap rooms for passengers to catch up on their sleep in a comfortable and quiet space.

One of the most popular lounges at Beijing Capital International Airport is the Air China First Class Lounge. This lounge offers passengers a luxurious experience, with private nap rooms, a buffet restaurant, a bar, and shower facilities. The lounge also has a quiet zone for those who wish to relax in peace.

Another popular lounge is the Plaza Premium Lounge. This lounge is not affiliated with any airline and is open to all passengers for a fee. The lounge offers a variety of amenities, including comfortable seating, snacks and beverages, shower facilities, and private nap rooms.

If you happen to be a member of a lounge program such as Priority Pass, you can access lounges at Beijing Capital International Airport for free. This provides a great opportunity to take a nap in a quiet and comfortable environment without having to pay for an expensive hotel room.

In conclusion, if you find yourself with a long layover or an early morning flight at Beijing Capital International Airport, it is worth considering taking a nap in one of the airport lounges. With comfortable seating, snacks, beverages, and even private nap rooms available, lounges provide a great opportunity to rest and relax in a quiet environment. So, take advantage of these facilities and enjoy your journey with a refreshing nap to energize yourself.

Play a round of golf at the Air China Lounge

As one of the busiest airports in the world, Beijing Airport offers a wide range of amenities for travelers to enjoy before and between their flights. And for those who are looking for a unique and relaxing experience, look no further than the Air China Lounge's golf simulator.

Located in Terminal 3, the Air China Lounge offers VIP services for eligible travelers, including members of Air China's frequent flyer program and those traveling in first or business class. For a small fee, guests can access the lounge and enjoy its many amenities, including the indoor golf simulator.

Designed to look and feel like a real golf course, the simulator allows guests to select from a variety of courses and practice shots on a virtual driving range. The simulator also offers various difficulty levels, making it suitable for golfers of all skill levels.

For those looking to play a full round of golf, the simulator offers a realistic and enjoyable experience. Tee off on famous courses such as Pebble Beach or St. Andrews, all without leaving the comfort of the lounge. And with the simulator's advanced technology, guests can experience the thrill and challenge of playing golf in different weather conditions and terrains, making it a truly immersive experience.

Aside from the golf simulator, the Air China Lounge offers other amenities such as free Wi-Fi, a selection of food and beverages, and comfortable seating to help guests relax before their flight. With its convenient location and unique offerings, the Air China Lounge is a must-visit for any golfer or traveler looking for a fun and enjoyable experience at Beijing Airport.

Visit the new Terminal 3 Art Display

Beijing Airport is not just a place to catch a flight. It is also a hub for art enthusiasts to enjoy various works of art from around the world. The new Terminal 3 Art Display is one of the most extraordinary highlights that must be checked out. Here, the lovingly placed art installations and designs are sure to make your travels a little less stressful.

This world-class airport art display is easily accessible upon your arrival in Terminal 3. The impressive gallery showcases exquisite art installations, sculptures, paintings, and works of calligraphy that create an atmosphere of comfort and serenity. These pieces are chosen to bring a warm welcome to those arriving, and a sense of peace to those departing from this busy airport.

One of the masterpieces you can’t miss at the Beijing Airport Art Display is the "Fan" installation. This 53 foot-long installation depicts a giant Chinese fan made up of five steel elements. The artwork is incredibly striking, and it illuminates the vast space. It represents a perfect combination of contemporary art, technology, and traditional Chinese elements.

Another sculpture that is worth seeing is "The Harmonious Society", created by the German artist Andreas Slominski. This horse sculpture is unique in its design and is visible to all passengers at the terminal. The bright colors and grand design create a sense of positive energy.

Aside from the art display, Terminal 3 itself is a fascinating piece of architecture to be explored. This terminal is the second-largest airport terminal in the world, and it's renowned for its grand scale, modern design, and sustainability initiatives. The unique use of natural lighting and energy-efficient solutions create a calm and sustainable environment for everyone entering the space.

All over the terminal, there are also various contemporary art installations and decorations to keep you inspired during your visit. The airport operates regular guided tours, so you can learn more about the history and design of this amazing metallic bird-like structure.

In conclusion, the Beijing Airport Terminal 3 Art Display is an essential stop for any traveler passing through. Whether you’re an art lover or not, the combination of contemporary art, cutting-edge architecture, and a sustainable environment, is sure to leave a lasting impression on you. So, be sure to make time to visit this extraordinary art display during your travels to Beijing.

Learn about Chinese culture at the China Culture Center

If you have some time to spare on your next layover at Beijing Capital International Airport, why not take a short trip to the China Culture Center? Located just a few kilometers away from the airport, the center provides a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the richness of Chinese culture.

The China Culture Center occupies a sprawling complex in the heart of Beijing, surrounded by lush gardens and serene lakes. The center is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting Chinese culture and the arts. It offers a range of programs and classes for foreigners, including language courses, cooking lessons, and traditional Chinese painting classes.

One of the center's most popular programs is the Chinese cultural experience tour. The tour offers visitors a chance to explore the center's various exhibits and learn about the different aspects of Chinese culture. You can try your hand at calligraphy, learn about the ancient art of tea, or witness a traditional Chinese musical performance.

The center also offers programs that delve deeper into specific aspects of Chinese culture, such as the art of bonsai, brush painting, and Chinese medicine. Visitors can even take a day trip to nearby attractions, such as the Great Wall of China or the Forbidden City.

The China Culture Center is more than just a tourist attraction—it serves as a bridge between Chinese culture and the rest of the world. The center's programs promote mutual understanding, cultural exchange, and friendship among people from all walks of life.

So next time you find yourself with a few hours to spare at Beijing Capital International Airport, don't waste it twiddling your thumbs. Take a short trip to the China Culture Center and immerse yourself in the wonders of Chinese culture. You won't regret it.

Take a tour of the city with Beijing Layover Tour

If you're on a layover at Beijing Capital International Airport and have some time to spare, why not take a tour of the city with Beijing Layover Tour? This will give you a great opportunity to explore the rich cultural heritage of one of the world's most fascinating cities.

One of the most popular tours offered by Beijing Layover Tour is the Beijing city tour which takes around 5 to 6 hours. This tour covers all the major landmarks and tourist attractions of the city including the Great Wall of China, Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square, Temple of Heaven, and Summer Palace.

You would be picked up from the airport by an English-speaking guide in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle. The tour would start with a visit to the Great Wall of China, one of the Seven Wonders of the World. It is said that the Great Wall can be seen from space, but it looks even more spectacular up close. You will be able to ascend the wall and marvel at the stunning landscape all around.

The next stop will be the Forbidden City, one of the most magnificent palace complexes in China. Located at the center of Beijing, it was the residence of emperors from the Ming and Qing dynasties, and occupies an area of over 180 acres. It houses a collection of artifacts representing the pinnacle of Chinese cultural heritage.

After visiting the Forbidden City, you will head to Tiananmen Square, the largest public square in the world. It has been the site of many important events in Chinese history, and was where the founding of the People's Republic of China was declared in 1949.

The tour continues to the Temple of Heaven, another imperial complex built during the Ming Dynasty. It was used by the emperors to perform sacrificial ceremonies and to pray for a good harvest. Now it is a popular tourist attraction where visitors can learn about the history and customs of ancient China.

Finally, the tour takes you to the Summer Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in the western suburbs of Beijing. It is a masterpiece of Chinese garden design, with an impressive set of pavilions, halls, bridges, corridors, and temples. It comprises a large lake, Longevity Hill, and Kunming Lake.

After the tour, you will be dropped off back at the airport with plenty of time to catch your connecting flight. This would certainly be a fantastic way to spend your layover and to get a glimpse of Beijing's rich history and culture.

Beijing Layover Tour provides a hassle-free and customized tour experience to fit within your layover schedule. You can book the tour well in advance or on the same day, and the guide would provide you with all the necessary information about the city and the places you visit. So, if you're passing through Beijing airport, add a trip to Beijing Layover Tour to your itinerary for an unforgettable experience.

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