Yet it realizes the risks of losing its culture in the process and is doing everything it can to avoid such a loss. But the visitor who plans to go there now will ensure memories of the country as it is today. I'm glad I've seen it earlier and glad I've seen it now. Ten years down the line, it may be very different again. There are now many outstanding international-style hotels in Beijing, many of them managed by Japanese or other foreign hotel chains.
Accommodation here is clean, modern and reliable.
By and large, many gourmets will be disappointed by the Chinese food available in Beijing, although this is constantly improving. Fast food chains like McDonalds and Kentucky Fried Chicken have also started to proliferate in China. But the best meals for western tastes will be in the 5-star hotels. Unless you are very adventurous, you may prefer to eat in the Chinese restaurants of these establishments to 'play safe'. It is arguably the best Chinese food outside Hong Kong, but very hard to get bookings because consulates and foreign companies usually book this restaurant for weeks ahead.