As the capital of six dynasties, Beijing is the best starting point for understanding Chinese history and culture. World Heritage sites like the Forbidden City, Great Wall, and Temple of Heaven let you touch millennia of civilization, while the 798 Art District and National Centre for the Performing Arts showcase contemporary China's creativity. I recommend staying at least 4 days to slowly savor the depth and vitality of this city. Autumn in Beijing is the most beautiful, with golden ginkgo avenues and azure skies creating the city's most enchanting moments.