If you’re searching for a volunteer abroad program in China, the bustling capitol city of Beijing might be a great opportunity! Once the home of emperors, this sprawling urban center could be a great way to combine international service with cultural exploration.  The Volunteer in Beijing experience could leave you with many things: a deeper appreciation of Chinese customs and traditions, an enhanced resume full of professional skills, or the feeling of satisfaction associated with performing good deeds for those less fortunate.

Why Volunteer Abroad in Beijing, China?

The busy streets of Beijing could hold a lot of volunteering programs for you to jump right into! You might be able to take part in Volunteer in Beijing programs focusing on teaching, healthcare, business coaching, care-giving, and conservation. While lending a helping hand to a community in need, you may also develop your own academic and professional skills. Need another reason? Those same winding streets might be full of adventure! Street markets, food vendors, historical sites, and cultural festivals could be hidden within the city’s interior – waiting for you to discover it! Learn more about Volunteer in Beijing programs below!

What Might Life Be Like When I Volunteer in Beijing, China?

While your focus may be on volunteering abroad in Beijing, don’t forget you’ll also be living there! Open your front door and you may be surrounded by the unique Chinese culture of northern China. Maybe you’ll try the local specialties from the street vendors near your home base. Or, perhaps, visiting the national monuments and structures might interest you. Of course, you could simply spend your time hearing the stories your neighbors have to tell about their unique culture.  

Here a few other things you could stumble upon during your adventures in Beijing:

It’s food: Beijing cuisine originated out of the “Emperor’s Kitchen.” The imperial cuisine combined as many regional cuisines as there were cooks in the kitchen! This created a melting pot of flavors that would eventually become the food of the region. Beijing cooking is comprised of a lot of snack food as opposed to main dishes – perfect for small, light meals! Dishes include commonly available ingredients like dark soy bean paste, sesame products, scallions, and fermented tofu. Many cooking techniques are used, but frying is popular option. Popular Beijing dishes include:

  • Peking Duck, also known as Beijing Roast Duck, is perhaps best-known for its crispy, salty skin and decadent taste. Be sure to dip the crispiest bits in sugar for an authentic treat!
  • Jing Jiang Rou Si originated in Beijing and is one of its most popular dishes. This is a simple dish is made of pork cooked in sweet bean sauce. It’s usually eaten in soya bean wraps.
  • Jiaozi are Chinese dumplings. Traditional jiaozi are filled with minced pork, ginger, and leek. This dish is commonly eaten to celebrate the Chinese New Year.
  • Gangou Potatoes are a great dish for a cold day. Potatoes, pork, and chilies are simmered and caramelized in an iron pot to make this warming snack.
  • Zhajiangmian is made of hand-pulled noodles, vegetables, and pork. The Beijing version of this dish uses yellow soybean paste as opposed to the sweeter types found in other parts of China.

Finally, don’t forget to accompany your meal with a traditional pot of tea. Chrysanthemum tea is a bright, floral choice. Many Chinese drink it as a remedy for the common cold and other ailments.

It’s culture: Located in eastern Asia, China is the world’s third largest country. The sprawling country shares borders with 13 countries: notably Russia, India, Myanmar, Laos, and Vietnam. Beijing is the capitol of China and is located in the northern region: more specifically, it’s part of the Hebei Province. While natives speak Mandarin Chinese, many favor the Beijing dialect. What a good way to practice and develop your Chinese language skills!

Visiting others is an important part of Chinese daily life. You may expect some of your new friends and neighbors to drop by unannounced for what could be a festive and fun meal!

It’s sights: While out exploring, why not consider seeing some of these popular sights:

  • The Forbidden City is the old imperial palace of China that once housed emperors from the Ming and Qing dynasties.
  • Tiananmen Square, also known as the Gate of Holy Peace, is a large city square that has been the site of many historical Chinese events. Many monuments are displayed at this giant square.
  • The Beijing National Stadium was constructed for use in the 2008 Summer Olympics. It is often called the “Bird’s Nest” due to its resemblance to one.
  • The Great Wall of China is one of the only man-made structures that would be seen from space. You could access several sections of the wall via Beijing: the Mutianyu, Jinshanling, and Jiankou.

In addition to these sights, Beijing offers city monuments, national parks, and other UNESCO World Heritage sites. Be sure to do your research to find those that might interest you most!  

How Do I Find a Perfect Volunteer Abroad Program in Beijing, China?

A volunteer abroad program in Beijing could be a great way to commit your skills to aiding an urban cityscape.  When you’re ready to take the next step, browse the list of links below. If you find a program that interests you, either click on the program name or “LEARN MORE” for more information. You can also reach out directly to the Volunteer in Beijing program. Best of luck as you continue your journey to finding a volunteer abroad program in Beijing, China!