Xingang (Beijing), China Cruise Port

Xingang is your entryway into Beijing, the capital of China, which is filled with fascinating history, culture and people. Originally ruled by the Mongols, China has had a storied past filled with dynastic legacies. You can learn about the Qin and Ming dynasties at the Forbidden City, which have now been turned into a wonderful collection of museums.  But modern times have also proven to be quite impressive for Beijing. In 2008, the city hosted the Summer Olympics, and for this the city was transformed with wider roads and wonderful venues like the Birds Nest stadium designed by artist Ai Weiwei. In Beijing you can easily go from past to present in your travels, and here are a few things we recommend when you are cruising to Beijing via Xingang:

• Head to the Water Cube, where Michael Phelps made history at the 2008 Summer Olympics, and have some fun at what is now a popular water park in Beijing.
   
• Have a taste of Beijing’s most famous dish, Peking duck. The crispy skin is what makes this national dish of China so delicious.
   
• Go back in time as you explore the Forbidden City with its wide array of jewels, precious metals, weapons and paintings. This is a treasure trove of a destination.
   
• Go to Malian Dao, an area with tea shops where you can find tea leaves produced all over the country. Remember, in China, bargaining is pretty much the norm.