Beijing offers world-class ancient wonders like the Great Wall and Forbidden City at budget prices, with cheap street eats, dorms under $10/night, and efficient subway rides for under $1.
- ●Hike free sections of the Great Wall like Mutianyu (bus access ~$5)
- ●Explore Forbidden City (entry ~$10)
- ●Wander hutongs and try jianbing street food (~$1)
- ●People-watch at free Tiananmen Square
WeChat Pay or Alipay essential for payments as cashless society dominates; English limited outside tourist zones.