Beijing Hidden Gems: The Best Rooftop Views Away from the Crowds
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- Source：The Silk Road Echo
Looking for skyline magic without the tourist chaos? Skip the long lines at CCTV Tower and forget jostling for space at Forbidden City rooftops. Beijing’s true rooftop gems aren’t in guidebooks—they’re tucked behind old hutong alleys, perched atop boutique hotels, and hidden in plain sight across the city’s evolving skyline.
Why Rooftop Views in Beijing Are a Game-Changer
Sunset over the Forbidden City, the glimmer of the National Centre for the Performing Arts, or the futuristic silhouette of Galaxy SOHO—Beijing’s skyline blends ancient palaces with avant-garde architecture. But here’s the secret: you don’t need to pay premium prices or fight crowds to enjoy it.
We’ve scouted the city’s most underrated rooftop spots where locals sip craft cocktails, watch golden-hour light bathe temple rooftops, and toast to panoramic serenity—all without a selfie stick in sight.
Top 4 Secret Rooftop Spots You Need to Visit
1. Temple Restaurant Rooftop (Dongcheng District)
Nestled in a restored Qing Dynasty temple complex, this exclusive dining spot offers one of the most surreal views in Beijing. From its wooden terrace, you can see the Drum Tower glowing at dusk, framed by traditional upturned eaves. Access is limited—only guests of the restaurant can enter—but the Peking duck and aged Baijiu are worth every yuan.
2. UFO Kitchen & Bar (Sanlitun)
Perched on top of an apartment building, this retro-futuristic bar looks like a spaceship crash-landed in the city. The vibe? Think neon lights, synth music, and killer views of Sanlitun’s glittering streets. Come on a Thursday or Friday night for their live DJ sets and signature lychee mojitos.
3. The Orchid Hotel Roof Deck (Gulou)
This boutique hotel hides a serene rooftop garden where guests unwind with herbal tea while overlooking a sea of grey-tiled hutong roofs. No skyscrapers here—just the peaceful rhythm of old Beijing. Bonus: they offer free sunset yoga sessions in summer.
4. Commune Social Sky Lounge (CBD)
A speakeasy-style lounge above a Spanish tapas bar, accessible only through a discreet elevator. Dim lighting, bold cocktails, and a wraparound view of China Zun—the city’s tallest tower. Perfect for impressing a date or escaping the office grind.
Best Times to Visit & Crowd Comparison
Timing is everything. Hit these spots during golden hour (6–7:30 PM) for soft light and fewer people. Avoid weekends if possible—locals know when the out-of-towners arrive.
| Location | Best Time | Crowd Level | Entry Fee (CNY) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Temple Restaurant | 7:00–9:00 PM | Low (reservation only) | ~300 (dining minimum) |
| UFO Kitchen | 8:00–11:00 PM | Medium | Free (drink purchase suggested) |
| The Orchid Hotel | 5:30–7:00 PM | Very Low | Free (guests & invited visitors) |
| Commune Social | 9:00 PM–1:00 AM | Medium-High | One drink minimum (~80 CNY) |
Pro Tips for the Savvy Explorer
- Always check the air quality index (AQI). Clear days = crystal views.
- Dress smart-casual for lounges—no flip-flops or sportswear.
- Ask your taxi driver to take you to the ‘building behind’ a landmark—many rooftops aren’t signposted.
Beijing’s soul isn’t just in its monuments—it’s in the quiet moments between skyline glimmers, where the city exhales. So skip the obvious, seek the subtle, and let the rooftops tell you their stories.