Beijing Zhushikou: Jinjiang Inn's BEST Kept Secret (Luxury on a Budget!)
Beijing Zhushikou: Jinjiang Inn - My Unexpected Love Affair with Luxury on a Budget (And Why You NEED to Book)
Okay, listen up, travel junkies and budget adventurers! I just got back from Beijing, and I’m still buzzing. And you know what? The Beijing Zhushikou: Jinjiang Inn completely blindsided me. I walked in expecting… well, a budget hotel in a bustling city. What I walked out feeling? Completely pampered, relaxed, and like I'd stumbled upon a seriously well-kept secret.
Accessibility - A+ for Effort (and Little Annoyances!)
First off: Accessibility. This is crucial, right? The Jinjiang Inn tries. They have an elevator, which is a lifesaver after a day of exploring the Forbidden City. And they have facilities for disabled guests. BUT, and this is a but that I’m going to be brutally honest about, it's not perfect. Sometimes you’d find the ramp a little steep; hallways might be a squeeze. So, while they've made an effort, if accessibility is your top priority, double check with the hotel to make sure it perfectly suits your needs. They were always super helpful on the phone, and the elevator was a godsend.
Cleanliness & Safety - My Inner Germaphobe (and the Good News!)
This is VITAL, especially post-pandemic! And the Jinjiang Inn slayed here. They take cleanliness and safety seriously. Seriously. I mean, the whole place felt… sterile in the best way possible. They use anti-viral cleaning products, they do daily disinfection in common areas, and staff trained in safety protocol. You've got hand sanitizers everywhere, and they offer room sanitization opt-out available, which, I thought was thoughtful! I'm a bit of a nervous Nellie, and it made me feel surprisingly safe. They even had sterilizing equipment visible – made me feel better. They have all the necessary things: First aid kit, Fire extinguisher etc. They even offered individually-wrapped food options! (I’m a sucker for that one.) They have CCTV in common areas and CCTV outside the property, which gave me an extra sense of security.
Internet, Internet (and the Glory of Free Wi-Fi!)
Let’s talk Wi-Fi. Because, let’s be real, in the modern world, it’s practically a human right. Free Wi-Fi in all rooms! Hallelujah! And thank you, Jinjiang Inn. The signal was strong, I could stream Netflix without buffering, even at busy times. Internet access – wireless was a dream, and the fact there was Internet Access – LAN was just a bonus.
Dining & Drinking - Surprise Gastronomic Adventures!
Okay, I'm not going to lie, I wasn’t expecting much from hotel food. But the Beijing Zhushikou: Jinjiang Inn surprised me BIG TIME. The restaurants were… good. Really good. They had Asian cuisine in restaurant with an Asian breakfast, what more could you want? I’m a massive fan of soup, and their soup in restaurant was my go to! The breakfast [buffet] was a solid choice. The Coffee/tea in restaurant was a nice way to start the day. They even had a Poolside bar, if you're into that sort of thing, which I'm not but still, nice touch right? They have Room service [24-hour], and a snack bar so you can get all your snack-y needs in. They've got desserts in restaurant. The A la carte in restaurant wasn't my vibe, but I know it is for some.
Things to Do & Ways to Relax - Spa Day, Anyone?
This is where the Jinjiang Inn truly shines. Seriously. This isn’t just a place to crash, it’s a place to indulge. They have a spa/sauna! I was absolutely shocked. They offer a Foot bath, Massage (to die for!), and a sauna. I didn't get a Body scrub or a Body wrap, but you could. They have a Fitness center, if that's your thing. And… a pool with view! A pool, people! I spent an afternoon lounging by the pool, forgetting I was in the middle of Beijing. Pure bliss.
My Spa Story -- The Moment I Became a Believer
Okay, I need to tell you about the massage. I'd had a brutal flight, a packed itinerary, and I was on the verge of collapse. I booked a massage. The massage therapist. Oh, the massage therapist. I can't even remember her name, but she was a goddess. Her hands found knots I didn't know existed, and the oils smelled divine. I emerged two hours later… a new woman. Seriously, the massage alone was worth the price of the room!
Rooms - Luxurious Touches on a Budget
Now, let's talk rooms. They're simple, clean, and designed in an elegant manner. Air conditioning is a must-have, and this is China, so you're gonna need it. They have Air conditioning in public area as well. The Blackout curtains were clutch for sleeping off jet lag. The Free bottled water was a welcome touch. And the In-room safe box was perfect for my passport and other valuables. The Tea and coffee maker was nice. They included slippers and bathrobes which was great. And, yes, there's Wi-Fi [free].
They offer Non-smoking rooms, (praise be!), Alarm clock, Bathrobes, and Bathtub. They have a TV and Satellite/cable channels. The Mirror was large enough for both of me. The only tiny complaint? The Bathroom phone seemed a little…dated. Seriously, who uses a bathroom phone anymore?! But hey, that's just part of the charm.
Services & Conveniences - The Little Things That Make a Difference
This hotel offers all the usual stuff. They have Daily housekeeping, Luggage storage, Laundry service, and a Concierge who were super helpful with insider tips. They do Contactless check-in/out, which I really appreciated. The dry cleaning came in clutch. They offer Cash withdrawal. They even have a Convenience store for last-minute snacks. And the Doorman was always ready with a smile.
Food, Glorious Food - The Restaurant and the Unexpected Delights
They have Alternative meal arrangement if your a picky eater. The Bottle of water kept me hydrated. The Breakfast [buffet] was good, with something for everyone. They had Coffee/tea in restaurant which kept me going, and the Desserts in restaurant were a sweet way to end the meal. If you're lucky, you might catch a happy hour at the bar.
For the Kids - A Family-Friendly Haven
They are definitely Family/child friendly and offer Babysitting service so if you have kids this is the right spot. They do have Kids facilities and Kids meal.
Getting Around - Super Easy
The Jinjiang Inn makes it easy to get around. They offer Airport transfer, and Taxi service. They also have Car park [free of charge] and the Car park [on-site] and they also have a Car power charging station.
The Un-Secret Secret: Why You Need to Book This Hotel
Look, I'm not one for hyperbole, but the Beijing Zhushikou: Jinjiang Inn genuinely exceeded my expectations. It's not perfect - no place is. But for the price, the location (right in the heart of things), the cleanliness, the spa, and the unexpected luxury? It's a steal.
So, here's my pitch: are you a budget traveler who deserves to be pampered? Do you want to explore Beijing without breaking the bank? Do you need a place to unwind after a day of sightseeing?
Book the Beijing Zhushikou: Jinjiang Inn. You won't regret it.
Why This Hotel is a "Best Kept Secret" (SEO Friendly!)
- Luxury on a Budget: This hotel offers amazing amenities for the price!
- Perfect Location: Close to all the action.
- Clean & Safe: Peace of mind is priceless.
- Spa & Relaxation: A true oasis in a bustling city!
- Value for Money: Seriously, book it. Seriously. Ready to book that trip? Go now! Don't wait!
Okay, buckle up buttercups, because we're about to dive headfirst into a Beijing adventure from the supposed luxury of the Jinjiang Inn Zhushikou Branch. I’m already exhausted, mind you, mostly from staring at the tiny, almost comically utilitarian room. Let's see if I can turn this into a fun-filled travel nightmare… I mean, itinerary.
Day 1: Beijing, I Barely Know Ya (and My Knees Already Ache)
7:00 AM: Wake Up to the Sound of… Construction? Honestly, I’m not sure what it is, but it's loud. Maybe it's the future of Beijing being built right outside my window. God help us all. Coffee, thankfully, is instant and suspiciously cheap (read: probably made from ground-up dreams and regret).
8:00 AM: Breakfast - The Breakfast That Ate Beijing? Okay, so the hotel breakfast. Let’s just say it's…an experience. I bravely ventured into the buffet, a battlefield of dubious-looking dishes. The congee was…gloopy (a technical term, obviously), the pickled vegetables seemed to be judging my life choices, and the "mystery meat" was exactly that: a mystery. I ended up with a surprisingly delicious hard-boiled egg and a piece of white bread that tasted like cardboard. Success! (I think?)
9:00 AM: The Forbidden City – Lost in a Land of Glare and Gold: Armed with my (slightly blurry) map, I take a deep breath and head to the Forbidden City. This place is a behemoth. Seriously, it’s like walking through a history textbook, but a really, really impressive one. The sheer scale of it is overwhelming. I spent about an hour wandering around, completely lost in amongst the throngs of tourists, I was constantly being shoved and feeling like a very small cog in an enormous, ancient machine. The best part? The heat. Oh, the HEAT! It felt like I was melting. I did manage to snap some pictures though, which I'm sure will look stunning, once I figure out how to edit out all the people.
12:00 PM: Lunch: Street Food Adventures (and a Lesson in Chopstick Mastery): After my palace-based trek, I was STARVING. Headed for the food stalls. This is where Beijing truly shines, right? I plunged headfirst into the street food scene, figuring if I got sick, well, it's all part of the adventure, right? I braved some skewers of what I think was lamb (delicious and spicy!), some noodles with a sauce that could probably melt metal, and… well, let’s just say I'm still working on my chopstick skills. I probably looked like a toddler trying to eat with chopsticks, but the food was amazing. And cheap!
2:00 PM: Temple of Heaven - Regret (and a Slightly Sunburnt Nose): The Temple of Heaven promised tranquility. I found…more crowds. More heat. More sweating. It's beautiful, yes, the colors are vibrant, the design stunning. But it’s also packed, and I forgot my hat. My poor nose is now a shade of crimson that screams "tourist." There’s just something about ancient temples that inspires a weird sense of existential dread, you know? Like, you’re standing there, surrounded by history, and you're just thinking, "Wow, I'm gonna get sunburned."
4:00 PM: Back to Jinjiang Inn: The Sweet Embrace of Air Conditioning: I needed a refuge. The hotel room, despite its limitations, was heaven. I collapsed onto the bed, thankful for the weak but functional air conditioning. I will nap. No matter what the day brings.
7:00 PM: Dinner: Peking Duck… Maybe? Time for the Peking duck ceremony. I've heard tales of crispy skin, succulent meat, and pancakes filled with joy. I’m hoping that this experience will redeem the questionable breakfast and the general chaos of the day. Wish me luck… I've got a feeling this could either be the highlight of my trip, or a culinary disaster. Time to find out.
9:00 PM: Reflecting (and Trying to Ignore the Construction Noises): Back in the hotel. The duck…was… incredible! Absolutely worth every penny. I'm absolutely STUFFED. I can barely move I am so tired. Beijing, you are a wild beast. I'm starting to think I might actually survive this trip. But I need to sleep. Day 2: The Great Wall (and My Ongoing Struggle with Stairs)
7:00 AM: Wake Up to…The Same Construction? Seriously, is this continuous?! I'm starting to believe that's the sound of my sanity slowly unraveling.
8:00 AM: Breakfast: Again, the hotel buffet. This time, I go straight for the hard-boiled eggs. I saw that they added an interesting looking side dish to the buffet, but I'm not sure what it is, and I'm not sure I'm willing to find out.
9:00 AM: Great Wall Bound! (Pray for my Quads): The Great Wall. THE Great Wall. I've seen pictures. I've read the articles. But nothing could prepare me for the sheer magnitude of it. And the stairs. Oh, Sweet Mother of Mercy, the stairs. I opted for the Mutianyu section (supposedly less crowded). Even so, after 30 minutes, my legs felt like rubber. I spent a good portion of the time wheezing and stopping to catch my breath, mostly muttering things about how I should have trained for this (spoiler: I didn't). The views are spectacular though. Spectacular enough to make me almost forget the pain. Almost.
12:00 PM: Lunch at the Wall (or, More Accurately, Eating while Slightly Terrified): There are little restaurants at the Wall. I bought some noodles at a very basic restaurant. The food was passable. The views, however… I sat eating my noodles, looking out over the endless expanse of mountains and wall, thinking about the ages of the people who built it. It was a very cool moment.
2:00 PM: Lost in Translation (and a Taxi Mishap): Getting back to the city was an adventure. I tried the public transit but it seemed impossible. So, taxi. Well, trying to hail a taxi. The language barrier? Immense. The driver, bless his heart, seemed to understand about half of what I was saying, and I understood maybe a quarter of what he said. We eventually got to the hotel. With a few detours and a good laugh.
4:00 PM: Back to the Room: Air Conditioning Is My BFF: The trip to The Wall was a workout. Time to shower, hide in the hotel, and be thankful.
7:00 PM: Dinner: Sichuan Food (Prepare Your Taste Buds!): I'm craving spicy food and I've located a Sichuan restaurant. I'm a spice addict, and I'm ready for anything! I'll go in with an open mind (and possibly a fire extinguisher). I'm sure it's going to be an adventure.
9:00 PM: Wallowing in Comfort: Back in the hotel. Reflecting. I'm tired. Tomorrow, I may visit the Summer Palace. Or I may not. We'll play it by ear. Beijing is overwhelming, exhausting, and somehow incredibly captivating. I'm utterly charmed, and I can't wait to see what other weird adventures await me.
Day 3: Departure Day (And a Last-Minute Dash for Souvenirs)
7:00 AM: Construction? REALLY?
8:00 AM: Breakfast (Eggs. Always the Eggs.)
9:00 AM: Summer Palace - A Quick Visit: My legs have mostly recovered from the Great Wall. The Summer Palace is lovely. The lake is pretty. Very serene. I wish I had more time.
11:00 AM: Souvenir Panic! Time to buy some last-minute souvenirs, right? I ran around like a maniac, buying enough trinkets to fill a small truck. I spent way too much money, and now I'm wondering if I even want half of this stuff. Whatever. It’s part of the chaos.
1:00 PM: Quick Lunch & Head to the Airport: I tried to eat some dumplings. I was rushed. Whatever.
2:00 PM: Airport Run: I had cut it close, but I made it.
3:00 PM: Plane: Goodbye Beijing! Farewell to questionable breakfasts, the Great Wall, and the constant hum of (you guessed it) construction. I'm tired, I'm a little sunburned, and I kinda can't wait to come back.
6:00 PM: Home:
Beijing Zhushikou Jinjiang Inn: The Secret's Out (Mostly!) - My Unfiltered Q&A
1. Okay, spill the beans! Is this Jinjiang Inn ACTUALLY "luxury on a budget"? Like, seriously?
Alright, alright, I'll fess up. "Luxury" might be a *slight* overstatement. Let's be honest. And I'm going to be real here, I'm a sucker for a good hotel. But for the price? *Absolutely*! Think of it like this: you're getting the quality of a decent 3-4 star place but paying...well, let's just say you can afford a LOT more of that delicious Peking Duck. The rooms are clean, the beds are comfy (crucial!), and the location is GOLD. It's not the Four Seasons, but I wasn't expecting that when I booked, and frankly, I enjoyed it MORE because I wasn't constantly worrying about prices!
Remember that time I stayed in a place that was definitely *not* luxury? Let's just say the cockroach who shared my room became my unintentional roommate. Never again!
2. The Location, Location, Location! What's the deal with Zhushikou? Is it… safe? Accessible? And how's the air quality? Be completely honest.
Zhushikou? YES, a million times yes! It’s practically a stone’s throw from Tiananmen Square and the Forbidden City. Safe? Absolutely. I walked around at all hours, even at 3 AM after a questionable karaoke session (don't ask). Accessible? Subway stations are a hop, skip, and jump away, and taxis are plentiful. You can easily reach all the big sights. And the food? Street food heaven! (More on THAT later.)
Air quality is… well, it's Beijing. Download an air quality app and bring a mask. I went in winter and the air was a bit rough at times, but I soldiered on. It’s worth it, trust me. Plus, it's not as bad as some people make out. You could get away with a thin mask, mostly, it's more of an awareness thing, and you have to be prepared for worse!
3. The Rooms! What are they ACTUALLY like? Any hidden horrors?
Okay, deep breath. The rooms are… good. Honestly, they're better than I expected. Clean, modern enough, and they all have a private bathroom which is a non-negotiable for me. The beds are firm (Chinese beds often are), but I slept like a log. The decor is… not going to win any design awards, but it's functional. Think of it as...efficient. I wouldn't say luxurious, but more of a good motel feel. Oh and the bathroom? Nice and spacious, and I got more towels in there than I could count in a week. Just don't forget your adapter, the outlets might not be the type you're used to.
Hidden horrors? Thankfully, no cockroaches! But the walls are a bit thin. I could sometimes hear the neighbours, but honestly, who am I to judge? They probably heard me snore! And the AC...it's a little noisy, something to be aware of. If you're a light sleeper, bring earplugs. Trust me, you'll thank me!
4. The Breakfast! Is it even worth bothering with?
Okay, here's the truth. Breakfast is included. It's… Chinese breakfast. Think noodles, steamed buns, congee, and some slightly mysterious scrambled eggs. Don't expect bacon and a proper coffee (instant is your friend, though). I personally love that stuff, I love to try local food. I actually *loved* it, but I’m a bit of a glutton for punishment, or at least exploration! For an adventurous foodie, it’s a delightful taste of the real Beijing. For a picky eater? Maybe… stock up on some fruit from a nearby shop. Or bring some granola bars. Or just go hunt for a Western style cafe, they're not too far away.
5. Tell me about that "Secret" part! What makes it "luxury" even if it’s budget? What are the special details?
Okay, the "secret" part. I might have embellished a bit. Luxury is a strong word, okay? But here's what makes it special: The location is worth its weight in gold. Getting to those major sights so easily is a Godsend, and you get a little taste of local life. You're not stuck in a soulless tourist bubble. The staff are generally helpful and friendly, even if their English isn't perfect. Some of them are genuinely lovely, you know, the kind who make you feel welcome and try, with their limited English, to give you advice on the local area.
And, here’s my favorite memory from my stay. One evening, I got totally lost and panicked (my sense of direction is… terrible). I stumbled into a little noodle shop, flustered and hungry. The shop owner, a woman with a beaming smile, didn't understand a word I said, but she somehow understood my desperation. She pointed at the menu, then at me, then at the steaming bowls, and then she gave me a free dumpling! (Probably because I looked like I was about to collapse). That kind of kindness... that's the real luxury. You wouldn't get that in a fancy hotel. That's what you can find here, and that's what makes it 'special' to me.
6. What are the downsides? Be brutally honest. Don't sugarcoat it.
Alright, here's the unfiltered truth. The noise level can be a problem. Thin walls, remember? You might hear traffic, other guests, and the ever-present construction that seems to be happening *everywhere* in Beijing. Also, the Wi-Fi wasn't always the fastest, but let's face it, you're in Beijing, not trying to run a marathon of streaming. The elevator is SLOW, and I mean, *slow*. I frequently took the stairs, good exercise!
7. How do you get here? Any tips on getting from Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK)?
Getting there is easy! I used the Airport Express train to Dongzhimen station, then the subway, which is a breeze. Seriously, if you know how to use a map and a little Chinese (even just the basics), it's the cheapest and quickest way. Taxis are an option, of course, but can be expensive and the traffic in Beijing can be a nightmare. If you're feeling brave, consider a DiDi (China's version of Uber). Use data! And before you go, make sure your VPN is working: otherwise, you will be limited by the firewall.
