3) Western Church (Xizhimen Church)
The Western Church, located on the southern side of Xizhimen Nei Street, is the newest Catholic church in Beijing and the only one not built by missionaries. It was first established in 1723 and restored in 1912.
Though the church can't be seen from the street, the passion for it hasn't declined. Every year on Christmas Eve, college students flock to the church not only for the choral music, but also for the delicate Collins pillars and Gothic peaked arches inside, which make a grand, elegant and solemn impression on visitors.
Mass Time: 06:30-07:00 (all week long); 8 hours open to visitors on Christmas Day
Address: 130 Xizhimenneinan Dajie, Xicheng District
Tel: 010-6615-6619
How to get there: Take bus 7, 808, 27 or 105 and get off at Xikai Hutong
4) North Church (Xishiku Church)
The grandest and most ornate Catholic church in town is located in Xishiku inside the west city gate. Founded in the 14th year of Emperor Guangxu's reign of the Qing Dynasty, it was originally called "Savior Church," and is currently the location of the Beijing Cardinal Bishop Office.
Mass Times: Mass times vary, but 08:00 on Sunday is the safest bet; 8 hours open to visitors on Christmas Day
Address: 33 Xishiku Dajie Xi' anmen, Xicheng District
Tel: 010-6617-5198
How to get there: Take bus 103, 109, 101, or subway Line 2, and get off at Xishikou
