Immerse yourself in Beijing’s history and culture on this two-day small-group tour. From the simplicity of Beijing’s ancient hutongs to the modernity of the Olympic precinct, Beijing is a fascinating city to explore. Discover this rapidly changing city by walking the streets and cycling through ancient alleys. Experience Beijing’s culture at the Temple of Heaven Park; see famous sights like Tiananmen Square and the Forbidden City; and join the locals in a game of mahjong and a cup of green tea. Your guide will help you navigate Beijing’s public transport system and bargain at Beijing’s vibrant local markets. This is a great introduction to Beijing, packed with authentic experiences that will allow you to see Beijing through the eyes of a local.
Highlights
- Two-day small-group tour of Beijing's history and culture
- Mingle with locals at the Temple of Heaven Park
- Visit Tiananmen Square and the Forbidden City
- Take part in a Chinese cooking demonstration
- Visit a local market and check out the local produce
- Cycle through Beijing's ancient alleys and lane-ways, know as hutongs
- Take in the views over Tiananmen Square and ancient Beijing from Jingshan Park
- Three standards of accommodation to choose from: Budget, Standard and First Class
- Travel in a small group, limited to12 participants, ensuring a personalized experience
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Day 1: Beijing (L)
After meeting your guide at your hotel, travel to the Temple of Heaven Park. Here you'll see people of all ages taking part in traditional pastimes such as taichi, fan dancing and water calligraphy. Join the locals in these activities or take the time to explore the park.
Please note: Entry to the Temple of Heaven is not included. If you wish to visit the Temple of Heaven, it will be at your own expense.
Stop for a dumpling or noodle lunch at a local restaurant before taking Beijing’s subway to the center of the city, Tiananmen Square. Here your local guide will give you insight into the historical significance of Tiananmen Square before entering the Forbidden City through the Gate of Heavenly Peace. Your guide will lead you through the Forbidden City, sharing its history, secrets and architectural importance. Continue to Jingshan Park and climb to the pagoda on the top of the hill for stunning views over the Forbidden City and the ancient heart of Beijing. You are then free to explore the park or Beijing's other sights at your leisure. Overnight: Beijing
Day 2: Beijing (L)
Today, you'll see Beijing by bike! Cycle the winding alleyways and back streets around the Forbidden City. Known as hutongs, these lanes are home to many of Beijing's residents, as well as shops, markets, temples and historic buildings. Get a glimpse into Beijing's traditional way of life that is slowly disappearing.
Visit a local market. Check out the fresh produce and learn more about the traditional ingredients in Chinese cooking. Watch a cooking demonstration and learn how local dishes are prepared before sitting down for a typical Chinese meal in a traditional courtyard.
Hop back on your bikes for the short ride to your next stop, where you'll spend some time learning the popular game of mahjong with some local friends over a cup of green tea. Your tour concludes in the late afternoon.
Schedule Details
Join in on a game of Mahjong
Select a month to view a calendar of availability and departure details.
Harmony Hotel, 9 Youtong Street, Beijing
Sunworld Hotel, 88 Dengshikou Street, Beijing Departure Time:
8:00am on Day 1
Duration:2 days (approx.)
Return details:5:00pm on Day 2
Tour and Pricing Options
Click the link below to check pricing & availability on your preferred travel date. Our pricing is constantly updated to ensure you always receive the lowest price possible - we 100% guarantee it. Your currency is set to USD. Click here to change your currency.
Additional Information
- 1 night accommodation in the selected category of hotel
- Local guide
- Meals as per itinerary (B=Breakfast, L=Lunch, D=Dinner)
- Entrance fees as specified
- Bike hire
- Train travel on Beijing's public subway
- Gratuities (recommended)
- Entrance Fees not specified in the itinerary
- Confirmation will be received at time of booking, unless booked within 7 days of travel. In this case confirmation will be received within 48 hours, subject to availability
- Not recommended for child aged 12 and under
- Adult pricing applies to all travelers
Budget (2-Star):
9 Dragons House or similar
Basic accommodation with private bathroom facilities. Located on one of the historic hutong streets in the centre of Beijing.
Standard (3-Star):
Harmony Hotel or similar
Locally owned hotel situated in the heart of Beijing near Beijing Railway Station. Comfortable rooms with private bathroom facilities.
First Class (4-Star):
Sunworld Hotel or similar
Located close to the busy Wangfujing Shopping Street in downtown Beijing. Spacious, elegant rooms with a wide range of amenities. Voucher Info: You can present either a paper or an electronic voucher for this activity. What's this? Local Operator Information:
Complete Operator information, including local telephone numbers at your destination, are included on your Confirmation Voucher. Our Product Managers select only the most experienced and reliable operators in each destination, removing the guesswork for you, and ensuring your peace of mind.
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