Barnaul Tourist Shares Beijing Impressions and Travel Tips

Since the introduction of the visa-free regime, China has been experiencing a real tourism boom, and thousands of Russians have already appreciated the hospitality of the Middle Kingdom. Among them is Barnaul resident Polina Svechkar, who at the end of January embarked on a three-week journey across the country. The first stop on her itinerary was Beijing. Polina shared her impressions with NGS22.RU, explaining why it«s worth visiting China and what exactly surprised her in this country.

«Immersion into Another Reality»

Polina«s journey began from Novosibirsk. Just 4.5 hours of flight — and she was already in Beijing. Round-trip tickets cost approximately 30,000 rubles per person (about $333 at current rates). Even before departure, Polina ensured comfort: she bought a Chinese SIM card for internet, downloaded necessary local applications, and topped up her Alipay account — a popular payment system.

— China is not just another tourist destination, but a whole immersion into another reality. It is a country of contrasts, where ancient traditions harmoniously coexist with ultramodern technologies, — shares Polina.

First impressions of Beijing were vivid.

— There are many people, shops for every taste. We actively used the subway — it«s the same as in Moscow. And if questions arose, we could always use a translator, — says the tourist.

Polina encountered amazing kindness and willingness to help from the Chinese. Even with the language barrier, people tried to understand and offer support.

— People don«t refuse, they even approach themselves to help, — notes Polina.

Now there are few tourists in Beijing, possibly due to the weather.

— It«s cold here, about +5 degrees Celsius (41°F). But Chinese people almost all walk without hats. I»m dressed as for a cold autumn, — says the tourist.

Gastronomic Discoveries and Budget Hacks

Chinese cuisine — this is a separate topic for conversation. Polina talks about how the variety of flavors and aromas amazed her. From street food to exquisite dishes — everyone finds something to their liking.

— In stores, snacks are sold everywhere: fermented fruits, nuts, seeds, dried vegetables and fruits. Even dried beets are available. They are inexpensive. We tried large grapes and green nectarines — very tasty.

She emphasized that it«s possible to eat deliciously and heartily almost anywhere in China.

— For example, at food courts in Beijing, there is a huge variety of noodles, dumplings, and fruits in caramel. I tried strawberries, I liked it. The cost of street food, reminiscent of our shawarma, is about 400 rubles (about $4), making it very affordable. And a portion of dumplings will cost only 100 rubles (about $1), — specified the tourist.

According to Polina, more money is spent on moving around the country than on food. The most budget-friendly way to travel is by bus. Metro fares start from 3 yuan. And the minimum price for a taxi ride in China is 10 yuan.

— Despite the huge distances between cities, travel within China is excellently organized. By the way, in trains, compartments are equipped with three beds and folding seats, making long journeys comfortable. In large cities, the cost of a trip on a high-speed electric train depends on the number of stops, — specified Polina.

As for accommodation, in Beijing Polina saved by paying for a two-star hotel only 2,000 rubles per day (about $22). Of course, there are more expensive options.

Surprising Details and Contrasts

Polina notes that Beijing could become an excellent example for Russian tourist cities.

— The streets of the capital are filled with people in national costumes, who happily stroll through squares and take photos. This is not just a one-time event, but part of daily life. There are entire shopping centers where you can not only choose a traditional outfit but also get professional makeup and hairstyling. Such a service is available not only in Beijing but also in other tourist centers. Many spend a whole day in such an image, I also want to change clothes and take a photo, but where it will be warmer, — Polina pointed out.

Besides bright national traditions, the tourist was surprised by the local ice rink.

— The first time I«ve seen such a thing, where instead of skates, people slide on ice on stools, they reminded me of school chairs, — recalls the tourist.

And on the roads of Beijing, according to her, there is a real parade of electric cars: BMW, Audi, Tesla, Lincoln, Porsche, and, of course, many Chinese brands.

What particularly struck Polina in Beijing was its cleanliness. Despite the huge population, the streets are well-maintained, garbage is removed promptly, and public places are kept in perfect condition.

— Beijing — this is a city of contrasts, where ancient temples and narrow hutong alleys neighbor modern skyscrapers. This combination creates a unique atmosphere that captivates and inspires, — added the tourist.

Polina Svechkar«s journey in China has only begun, but it is already clear: the Middle Kingdom is capable of surprising and delighting, leaving unforgettable impressions. In Polina»s plans — visiting Xi«an with its famous Terracotta Army, the panda city, Shanghai, Guangzhou, and, of course, the Great Wall of China.