Dynamic Beijing is a city of extremes, steeped in ancient history and hurtling toward the
future. Lantern-lit streets, bustling curio markets and the ancient buildings of the
Forbidden City nod toward traditional roots. At the same time, urban developments are
springing up, remodeling the capital. The most extravagant project is the 2,805-acre
(1,135 hectares) Olympic Green, just north of Beijing's center. The 2008 Olympic
Games and greater global interest in China has rapidly developed Beijing's economy and boosted both
business and tourist interest in the city. This has had far-reaching effects including
more green spaces, an expanded transportation system and improved health services.
