Day 1: Imperial Beijing

Tiananmen Square (Tiananmen Guangchang) - Start your journey at Tian’anmen Square (30 minutes): As the largest city square in the heart of Beijing, Tian’anmen Square is named after the Tian’anmen, or the “Gate of Heavenly Peace,” which lies to its north, separating it from the Forbidden City. This square holds immense cultural importance, having been the site of numerous pivotal events in Chinese history.

As the world’s largest city square and a lasting emblem of China’s national pride, it is encircled by many grand structures, including the Heavenly Gate (entrance to the Forbidden City), museums, government buildings, and Chairman Mao’s Mausoleum.

Forbidden City-The Palace Museum - Visiting the Forbidden City is like stepping back in time. Upon entering through the red walls and yellow tiles, the first sight is the magnificent Hall of Supreme Harmony, where ancient emperors conducted grand ceremonies. Standing in the square before this hall, one can vividly imagine the grandeur and splendor of those imperial court events. Walking along the central axis, passing through the Hall of Central Harmony and the Hall of Preserving Harmony, each palace reveals its own rich history. The exhibitions within these halls offer visitors a deep understanding of royal life during the Ming and Qing dynasties, covering aspects from politics to court culture and artistic achievements.

Temple of Heaven - Upon entering the Temple of Heaven, the first sight is the Hall of Prayer for Good Harvest. This three-tiered circular roof building is not only the iconic symbol of the Temple of Heaven but also a significant place where ancient emperors prayed for bountiful harvests and national prosperity. Visitors can learn about the architectural features and historical and cultural significance of the Hall of Prayer for Good Harvest through the exhibitions and interpretations inside the hall.

Along the central axis, visitors will explore the Hwan Mound and the Imperial Dome, both of which carry the sacred mission of the royal family. The Circular Mound Altar, with its unique three-layer circular stone step design, symbolizes the vastness and supremacy of heaven and earth. The Emperor Dome, with its exquisite architectural style and mysterious echo wall phenomenon, draws countless tourists to explore and listen.

Day 2: Local Beijing Life

Shichahai Scenic Resort - Located in the heart of Beijing, Shichahai is a delightful historic district comprising three interconnected lakes—Qianhai, Houhai, and Xihai. Surrounded by ancient hutongs, traditional courtyard houses, and vibrant bars and cafés, it offers a perfect blend of history and local life.

Visitors can enjoy a leisurely walk along the lakeside, rent a bicycle or rickshaw to explore the old hutongs, or take a boat ride on the water. In summer, the willow-lined lakes are full of life, while in winter, the frozen surface becomes a natural ice rink popular with locals. Shichahai also hosts historic landmarks such as the Prince Gong’s Mansion and former residences of notable figures, providing a glimpse into Beijing’s rich cultural heritage.

Hutong Tour - Experience the essence of old Beijing with a rickshaw ride through the city’s most renowned hutongs. As the driver pedals through the narrow alleyways, you’ll pass traditional courtyard homes, colorful doorways adorned with red lanterns, and locals going about their daily routines. It’s one of the best ways to experience the authentic rhythm of Beijing.

During the ride, you might stop at a local family courtyard to learn about traditional life, visit hidden temples nestled between alleys, or explore small markets where residents shop for fresh produce and spices.

Your rickshaw ride is more than just transportation—it’s a journey back in time, connecting you to the stories, culture, and living history of Beijing’s hutongs.

Yandai Xie Street - Yandai Xiejie, or “Tobacco Pipe Lane,” is one of Beijing’s oldest and most renowned hutong streets, dating back to the Qing Dynasty. This narrow, bustling alley is lined with traditional grey-brick architecture, colorful shopfronts, and red lanterns that glow warmly in the evening.

As you wander down the sloping lane, you’ll discover a mix of boutique souvenir shops, tea houses, antique stores, and snack stalls offering Beijing specialties. The street is also famous for its historical connection to tobacco pipe making, a craft that gave the street its distinctive name.

Bell and Drum Towers - Majestically standing at the north end of Beijing’s central axis, the Bell and Drum Towers have overseen the city for over 700 years. Originally built during the Yuan Dynasty and later reconstructed in the Ming and Qing, these twin towers once served as Beijing’s official timekeepers, their sounds marking the rhythm of daily life long before mechanical clocks existed.

Today, visitors can climb the steep staircases to the top for panoramic views of the hutong neighborhoods below and the modern skyline beyond. Inside, you’ll find giant drums and an enormous bronze bell—historic instruments that once resonated across the capital. At scheduled times, you can also witness the famous drum performance, a thunderous and unforgettable cultural show.

A visit to the Bell and Drum Towers is more than just sightseeing—it’s a step into Beijing’s living history, where ancient traditions meet the heartbeat of the city.

• Private transportation
• Entrance tickets
• Professional English speaking tour guide
• Air-conditioned vehicle
• All fees and taxes
• Bottled water

• Meals

Seeking the ideal way to explore Beijing at your own pace? The Beijing City Walk provides the flexibility to select a 1-day itinerary that suits your schedule or combine both for a comprehensive 2-day experience.

Visit Beijing’s iconic landmarks: Temple of Heaven, Tiananmen Square, and the Forbidden City.

Experience authentic life in the hutongs, Shichahai Lake, Yandai Xie Street, and the Drum & Bell Towers.

Travel by subway, bus, bicycle, and Hutong rickshaw with your private guide.

Day 1 – Imperial Beijing

• Temple of Heaven: Ming Dynasty altar & morning tai chi.
• Tiananmen Square: The world’s largest public square.
• Forbidden City: A 3-hour guided walk through palaces & residences.

Day 2 – Local Beijing Life

• Shichahai Lake: Scenic water views & hutong surroundings.
• Yandai Xie Street: Traditional shopping street.
• Drum & Bell Towers: Explore ancient Beijing timekeepers.
• Hutong Tour: Ride a rickshaw into the heart of old Beijing life.

Day 1 + Day 2 – Complete Experience
Blend imperial grandeur with the charm of authentic neighborhoods.

• A current valid passport is required on the day of travel

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.