Peking University (Weiming Lake & Boya Pagoda) - Image 1
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Peking University

4.5
·46 reviews·, China

Explore Peking University, a prestigious institution with stunning traditional architecture, serene lakes, and a vibrant academic atmosphere.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more serene

CrowdLow
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Peking University (Weiming Lake & Boya Pagoda) - Image 1

Peking University

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more serene

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore Peking University, a prestigious institution with stunning traditional architecture, serene lakes, and a vibrant academic atmosphere. TikTok

4.5
(46 reviews)

"Wander through one of China's most beautiful university campuses, a blend of history and academia. Reddit"

Vertical photo
TIP

🚶 Wander & Explore

Allow ample time to wander the beautiful campus; you might discover hidden gems. :athletic_shoe:

canteen Food Delights

Enjoy affordable and delicious meals at the university canteens. Try the mapo tofu! :knifeforkplate:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Weiming Lake

Weiming Lake

Central Campus

A picturesque lake surrounded by traditional architecture, perfect for a serene stroll or quiet reflection.

TikTok
Peking University Library

Peking University Library

Central Campus

One of the largest university libraries in Asia, an architectural marvel and a symbol of academic pursuit.

Reddit
Boya Pagoda

Boya Pagoda

Weiming Lake

An iconic landmark overlooking Weiming Lake, offering stunning views and photo opportunities.

TikTok
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Planning Your Visit

Navigating Campus & Crowds

Peking University is vast! Plan your visit to avoid peak hours. While beautiful, it can get crowded, especially near popular spots. Consider visiting during weekdays to experience a more relaxed atmosphere. Reddit

Student Life & Access

While visitors can explore parts of the campus, some areas might be restricted. For the full experience, consider attending a public lecture or event if available. The university is a hub of academic activity. Instagram

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more serene
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoon
Why
Good for exploring grounds
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

A day at Tsinghua + Peking University 北大清华 vlog @jenny huynh #duhoctrungquoc #hakiara
@kiara.yuhe
152.8K likes • 1.3M views

🚶 Wander & Explore

Allow ample time to wander the beautiful campus; you might discover hidden gems. Reddit :athletic_shoe:

canteen Food Delights

Enjoy affordable and delicious meals at the university canteens. Try the mapo tofu! Instagram :knifeforkplate:

What is a sponge city?   Professor Kongjian Yu of Peking University explains how this urban development concept works with water, rather than against it, to build more sustainable and flood-resistant ...
@museumofscience
91.5K likes • 564K views
Let’s grab lunch at my #Chinese #University 🍚🇨🇳 #canteen #canteenfood #foodie #foodporn #foodstagram #whatieat #whatieat #whatieatinaday #pku #pekinguniversity #chinesefood #chinese
totallytotoo
35.1K likes • 2.2M views

📸 Capture the Beauty

The campus offers numerous picturesque spots, especially around Weiming Lake. TikTok :camerawithflash:

🚇 Public Transport Access

While some areas are far, the main campus is accessible via subway. Check routes beforehand. Reddit :subway:

Chapter 2: Campus Life at Peking University (PKU) 🎓 Time to share a bit about what it’s like being a student at the top university in China! Part 1: Orientation Day ✨ We landed in China on 2nd Sept a...
_harsha_2000
232 likes • 2.5K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚶 Wander & Explore

Allow ample time to wander the beautiful campus; you might discover hidden gems. Reddit :athletic_shoe:

canteen Food Delights

Enjoy affordable and delicious meals at the university canteens. Try the mapo tofu! Instagram :knifeforkplate:

📸 Capture the Beauty

The campus offers numerous picturesque spots, especially around Weiming Lake. TikTok :camerawithflash:

🚇 Public Transport Access

While some areas are far, the main campus is accessible via subway. Check routes beforehand. Reddit :subway:

What Travellers Say

4.5
(46 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Peking University is lauded for its stunning, expansive campus featuring beautiful traditional architecture and serene natural spots like Weiming Lake. Visitors appreciate the affordable and diverse food options available in the university canteens. While generally welcoming, some areas may have restricted access, and navigating the large campus requires comfortable footwear. TikTokInstagramReddit

"A very pleasant park."

Nathan Petiet (Karcean)

"In general, the Peking University campus is worth visiting."

Hui Yu (Alythyah)

"exquisite little tower."

YJ H

What People Like

Beautiful campus scenery
Affordable canteen food
Iconic landmarks

What People Dislike

Large campus size
Restricted access areas

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Peking University is accessible via Beijing's subway system. The closest stations are often Peking University East Gate (Line 4) or National Library (Line 4 and 9), depending on your entry point. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also readily available. Reddit

The Changping campus is located further from the city center and is not directly connected to the subway system, making it less convenient for public transport users. Reddit

The campus is quite large, so walking is recommended for exploring. Bicycles are also a popular option for students and can be rented. Reddit

Generally, exploring the main campus grounds is free for visitors. However, access to specific buildings or facilities might require student ID or special permission. Reddit

Travel times can vary significantly depending on traffic. Using the subway is often more predictable, taking around 30-60 minutes from central Beijing to the university area. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, typically there are no admission tickets required to walk around the main public areas of Peking University. Reddit

While there are no official 'visiting hours' for the public areas, it's best to visit during daylight hours when the campus is active and safe to explore. Reddit

Access to the main library is generally restricted to students and faculty. However, the architecture is impressive from the outside. Reddit

Official guided tours for the general public are not always readily available. However, you can explore independently or join student-led campus tours if offered. Reddit

International visitors are welcome to explore the public areas of the campus. Be respectful of the academic environment and student activities. Instagram

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Don't miss Weiming Lake with the iconic Boya Pagoda, the grand library, and the historic buildings scattered across the campus. TikTokReddit

Peking University is generally a safe environment. However, like any large campus, it's wise to be aware of your surroundings, especially during peak hours. Reddit

It's a vibrant academic atmosphere, blending historical architecture with modern educational pursuits. You'll see students studying, socializing, and engaging in campus life. Instagram

Yes, photography is generally allowed in public areas. Be mindful of students studying or in classes and avoid intrusive photography. TikTok

Restrooms are available throughout the campus, particularly in academic buildings and near student common areas. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The university itself has several canteens offering affordable and diverse meals. There are also many restaurants and eateries in the surrounding Wudaokou area. InstagramReddit

Food at the canteens is very budget-friendly, with meals typically costing between 5 to 25 RMB. You can easily have a decent meal for under 50 RMB. InstagramReddit

You can find a wide variety of Chinese dishes, including rice noodles, mapo tofu, scrambled eggs with tomatoes, and various vegetable stir-fries. Instagram

Yes, many canteens offer vegetarian dishes like tofu-based meals and vegetable stir-fries. Instagram

It's best to have Chinese Yuan (RMB) as most canteens operate on a cash or local payment app basis. Currency exchange is available at banks. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Weiming Lake and the Boya Pagoda offer iconic shots. The traditional architecture of older buildings and the grand library are also excellent subjects. TikTok

While generally permitted in public areas, avoid photographing students in classrooms or private residences. Always be respectful of the academic environment. TikTok

Golden hour (early morning or late afternoon) provides beautiful lighting. Midday can be harsh, but offers good light for architectural details. TikTok

Drone usage is typically prohibited on university campuses due to security and privacy regulations. Check specific campus policies if unsure. TikTok

A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is great for landscapes and architecture. A wide-angle lens can capture the grandeur of the campus. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Peking University offers a pleasant environment for families to explore. The spacious grounds and green areas provide room for children to move around. Weiming Lake is a beautiful spot for a family picnic or a leisurely stroll. TikTok While there aren't specific child-focused attractions, the sheer scale and beauty of the campus can be captivating for younger visitors. Encourage them to spot the traditional architecture and enjoy the open spaces. Instagram

When visiting with children, consider packing snacks and drinks, as facilities might be spread out. The university canteens offer simple, palatable options that might appeal to picky eaters. Instagram Ensure everyone wears comfortable shoes, as you'll likely be doing a lot of walking. Reddit

🎓 Aspiring Students & Scholars

For those considering studying at Peking University, a campus visit is invaluable. You can get a feel for the academic atmosphere and see the facilities firsthand. Instagram Research specific departments or campuses you're interested in, keeping in mind the distance of Changping campus from the city center. Reddit Connect with current students or alumni if possible for insider tips on admissions and campus life. Reddit+1

If you're looking for scholarships, Peking University is a top choice for international students seeking opportunities in China. TikTok The university offers a wide range of programs, and understanding the campus layout and student living conditions, like the dormitories, can help in your decision-making process. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the Campus Grounds

Peking University, often referred to as 'Beida' (北大), is one of China's most prestigious universities, boasting a sprawling and beautiful campus. Visitors can wander through areas like the historic central campus, which features traditional Chinese architecture alongside modern facilities. A highlight is Weiming Lake, a serene spot perfect for a leisurely walk, often accompanied by the iconic Boya Pagoda standing guard. The campus is designed to be both an academic hub and a place of natural beauty, with lush greenery and well-maintained gardens. TikTokReddit

Beyond the central area, the university has expanded to include other campuses, such as the Changping campus, which is more modern and houses specific departments. However, it's important to note that Changping is quite far from downtown Beijing and less accessible by subway, making the main campus the primary destination for most visitors. Reddit When exploring, remember that this is an active academic institution, so maintaining a respectful demeanor is key. Instagram

Student Life and Dining

The student experience at Peking University is rich and diverse. For visitors, a taste of this can be found in the university's canteens. These dining halls offer incredibly affordable and varied meals, a stark contrast to many tourist-priced options. A typical meal can cost as little as 5-25 RMB, allowing for a full day of eating for under 50 RMB. InstagramReddit Popular dishes include rice noodles, mapo tofu, and various vegetable stir-fries, catering to a range of tastes. Instagram

Living on campus is highly recommended for exchange students to fully immerse themselves in university life. Dormitories are generally clean, spacious, and reasonably priced, offering a great way to connect with peers and experience the vibrant student community. Reddit This immersion is crucial for understanding the true spirit of Peking University beyond its academic rankings. Instagram

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