Temple Grounds to Urban Curves in China

Morning in Ritan Park

My day started in the heart of Beijing’s Chaoyang District with a peaceful morning at Ritan Park, also called the Temple of the Sun. Walking through this historic park, which dates back to the Ming Dynasty, I felt connected to centuries of history, imagining emperors performing ceremonies to honor the sun on the very grounds I was exploring.

The ancient altars, stone pathways, and pavilions offered a quiet, reflective space while locals practiced tai chi, strolled with their families, or enjoyed the morning gardens. Away from the typical tourist crowds, I found myself lingering by the ponds and under the tree-lined walkways, soaking in the calm and feeling surprisingly at peace in the middle of the bustling city.

Galaxy SOHO

After a short ride across the Second Ring Road, I arrived at Galaxy SOHO, and the change in atmosphere was immediate. Designed by Zaha Hadid, this futuristic complex with its flowing curves and multi-level courtyards felt like stepping into another world. I wandered through boutiques, stopped for tea at a café, and admired the way the creative office spaces blended seamlessly with the architecture.

Climbing to one of the rooftop terraces, I took in sweeping city views and couldn’t help but marvel at how the modern skyline contrasted so dramatically with the tranquil historical sites I had just left. Every angle felt intentional, inspiring, and endlessly photogenic—a playground for anyone who loves architecture, art, or urban exploration.

I realized that both Ritan Park and Galaxy SOHO are perfect for a wide range of visitors. I saw solo travelers quietly enjoying the park, families taking leisurely walks, and urban explorers like me getting lost in the details of the modern SOHO complex. Experiencing the calm of the park in the morning and the energy of the SOHO building in the afternoon gave me a deeper appreciation for how Beijing balances its rich history with cutting-edge design. It felt like I was seeing two sides of the same city, each with its own story to tell.

Where to stay

Finding a place to stay nearby made the day even easier. I stayed at Hotel Eclat Beijing, a stylish and contemporary hotel with a quirky art-filled interior that felt like a perfect blend of modern comfort and creative energy, and it was just a short stroll to Ritan Park.

I also visited the Fairmont Beijing Hotel, which offered luxurious rooms, elegant public spaces, and easy access to nearby cultural sites, making it ideal if you want a refined stay in the heart of the city.

Finally, The St. Regis Beijing, located just minutes from Galaxy SOHO, impressed me with its sophisticated design, personalized service, and modern amenities—perfect for anyone wanting to be close to the dynamic pulse of contemporary Beijing.

Staying in these areas gave me a front-row view of the city’s contrasts—tranquil, historic spaces and the vibrant energy of modern architecture—making the day feel complete.

Ritan Park

• Visiting Ritan Park is best in the morning when it’s quiet, and you can catch locals practicing tai chi or walking their dogs. It’s a great opportunity to observe daily life in Beijing.

• The park is free to enter, so it’s easy to drop by even if you only have a short window in your day.

• Wear comfortable shoes for walking along the stone paths, and bring water if you plan to stroll for a while.

• Don’t forget sunscreen or a hat during the summer months, as there isn’t much shade along some of the open areas near the altars and ponds.

Galaxy SOHO

• For Galaxy SOHO, aim to visit in the late morning or afternoon when the shops, cafés, and courtyards are open, and natural light highlights the building’s fluid architecture. Perfect time for photos.

• While entry to the public areas is free, some rooftop terraces or cafés may require a purchase. If you’re an architect, avid traveler, or photography enthusiast, take your time to explore the multiple levels and curves of the building—every angle offers a new perspective.

• Nearby public transport makes it easy to combine these two sites in a single day, but plan your route carefully during rush hours to avoid traffic.

• Finally, bring a camera as both locations offer moments that are too good to miss!

For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our China page.