As well as boasting numerous historical and architectural wonders, Beijing is home to a thriving art scene.

An art tour through the city can make an interesting alternative to a day of sightseeing and will highlight some of the interesting art work being created in Beijing.

One of the best places to start is the 798 Art Space in the Dashanzi district just north-east of central Beijing.

Designed by Russia as a gift to China in 1959, the gallery was once state-owned but now stages work from up and coming Beijing-based artists and designers.

Artists are able to rent a space in the factory and often put on exhibitions and performances. Visitors to a Beijing hotel should keep an eye out for upcoming events.

For a livelier arts display, the Chaoyang Theatre stages regular acrobatics performances and the Capital Theatre is an excellent place to take in some modern Chinese drama.

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