Originally Posted by
moondog
Personally, I'd rank Wudaokou ahead of the Lama Temple because there are thousands of temples in China, but only one Wudaokou. Zhongguancun (on the way back) is also worth a look for those that are into electronics.
Please enlighten me as to why the Wudaokou area is unique and special vs Lama Temple area (not just the Temple which is grand, but also the area). Wudaokou is full of new buildings, commercial enterprises, lots of university students and related support buildings, and an electronics market. As University districts go, it's not even one of the more pleasant in China. Have I missed something in my last 11 years in Beijing (not to mention previous residence in Wudaokou)?
In short, for somebody who's never been to Beijing and has only 2 full days + 1 on the return, Wudaokou wouldn't make my top 30 of places to recommend.