Together, 北 (běi) and 京 (jīng) form a very literal and descriptive name: “The Northern Capital.” This name helps distinguish it historically from 南京 (Nánjīng), the “Southern Capital,” which served as the capital during other periods of Chinese history.
For over 800 years, 北京 (Běijīng) has been the heart of China's power and identity. It was the imperial seat for the Yuan, Ming, and Qing dynasties and remains the headquarters for the Communist Party of China and the national government today. This long history as the center of command gives the city an unparalleled sense of importance and grandeur in the national consciousness. A useful comparison is to consider how Washington D.C., New York City, and London are different. Washington D.C. is almost purely a political capital. New York is a financial and cultural capital. London is a blend of history, finance, and politics. 北京 (Běijīng) uniquely combines all these roles. It is the historical imperial capital (like Rome or London), the modern political hub (like D.C.), and a major international center for culture, education, and technology. The city's very layout, a series of rings expanding outward from the Forbidden City at its absolute center, reflects the traditional Chinese worldview of China as the “Middle Kingdom” (中国, Zhōngguó). This design embodies ancient values of order, hierarchy, and the central authority of the ruler.
As the capital, 北京 (Běijīng) is a constant topic of conversation in daily life, media, and business.