Never has the People's Republic of China had so many tourists as it has today, and its no wonder with all the things there are to see and do.

It's almost like arriving in another world when you enter the city of Beijing. Beijing is filled with amazing historical builings and traditional architecture, well preserved and restored. But amongst it all, or standing high above it all, are the new skyscrapers and buildings cropping up in Beijing. Beijing is also very modern, and has always been an important center for Chinese business and trade. You really can see how the past meets the present in Beijing.

One of the things that needs to be seen is the biggest square in the world, Tiananmen square, where you will also find the Gate of Heavenly Peace. The gate separates the square from the Forbidden City, an imperial palace complex used under the mid-Ming and Qing dynasties from 1422. This complex contains 800 buildings with 9,999 rooms, and is today one of the most popular tourist attractions in the world.

The Forbidden City got its name as ordinary citizens were not allowed to enter the palace during the dynasty era. The Temple of Heaven is also a visit worth making. It is surrounded by a long wall, and the temple is divided into parts, all built differently. The northern part symbolizes heaven and is built higher than the southern part, which symbolizes earth.

In August 2008, the Summer Olympics will be held in Beijing, so if you're interested in sports, and the olympic Games, mark your calendars now! When you do land in this colourful city, tuck into the delicious cuisine, try your hand at mastering chopsticks, and enjoy present-day Beijing, rich in culture and tradition.