Beijing, located in the North, is China's political center and a busy capital city, with a population of over 22 million people. As the seat of power of Chinese emperors throughout the centuries, Beijing is steeped in history, including the 26 traditions of the Ming and Qing Dynasties (1368-1911). Reigning as both an ancient capital of Imperial China and the modern capital of a thriving nation, Beijing retains plenty of evidence of its royal past, with aristocratic parks, temples, and palaces (all open to the public). Beijing is home to an incredible cultural display of art and historical artefacts in more than 50 museums. Folk traditions flourish in theatres, delicious dining is available in exotic settings, and cultural centres with fascinating demonstrations of centuries old art and craft making abound. Nowhere else can you get a more concentrated impression of the old and new China. Beijing is the treasure trove of Chinese culture, where many of the sights that make China a world-class destination are located.