We had a private tour of the Forbidden City last Sunday with Helena. She picked us up from the reception of our hotel promptly at 9am and we walked to the Forbidden City. On the way, Helena told us all about life in China and gave us so much information. With Helena, we could skip the long queues and we were into the Forbidden City quickly. It was a hot day and Helena was very good about stopping in the shade to talk to us so we were less exposed. She gave us a lot of interesting information and history of the Forbidden City, took plenty of pictures of us and helped us avoid the crowds. She obviously has a very in-depth knowledge of the Forbidden City and that certainly showed. We then walked up the hill at Jingshan Park to get a good view of the City below which was the perfect end to our tour. Overall, the tour was great - I would highly recommend it - and Helena was an excellent guide! Thank you!
(NB: unfortunately due to rehearsals for the parade, Tiananmen Square was closed that day so we did not go there during this tour.)
Excellent
Edwin_P(2019年9月)
After searching for a one day tour of the Forbidden City based on guide reviews we decided on this one. As soon as we met our guide, April, we were not disappointed. April is knowledgeable, friendly, courteous, and professional. Walking to the Forbidden City April kept us informed of the inner workings of the area and of Beijing. Arriving at the main gate of the City April noticed it was too crowded and instead brought us through a side gate entrance where there were no lines and we entered with no problems. Once inside, April again educated us on the history of the Forbidden City and other detailed information. Would definitely recommend this tour and if possible ask for April !
Amazing Private tour
Paul_S(2019年5月)
April was our amazing guide, she was so knowledgeable. It makes all the difference as you understand exactly what you are experiencing and therefore take in more. Thank you April for making it so special.
A view into Chinese History
Hirsh_S(2019年4月)
Walking through the Forbidden City was like looking through a lens into China's past. The architecture, design, and artwork were all super impressive and well worth the trip.
We met our tour guide, April, near our hotel and she escorted us through the Subway to the Forbidden City. She was able to help us skip past extremely large crowds of people with the use of our tour guide pass which really expedited the trip- we probably would've been waiting in line for at least an hour if we did not have her help.
Throughout the entire trip, she gave us detailed information on the history and culture of China, and the role of the Forbidden City in Chinese history. She spoke English very well and she was kind and considerate- she even gave us directions to our next destination after the excursion and helped us hail a cab!
The one tip I would give to those considering visiting the Forbidden City: the majority of the trip is outside and we were rained on the entire time. Make sure to plan accordingly
Great day with April
CarlosHumberto_F(2019年4月)
We had a fantastic day with April who made it special because of her deep knowledge of Chinese history. She explained everything in detail and asked my 10 year old son extra questions to keep him curious and entertained. We highly recommend April and this tour.
Unforgettable Experience!
Vernita_V(2019年4月)
Tina made our tour a special experience. She found a way to interact with each member of our multi-generation group in a special way. She even got our grandson involved by getting him a flag to lead the group. It was such a special experience to learn more about Chinese history and this special place with her.
Absolutely awesome tour! April is the best!
Wotlos(2018年9月)
April was amazing, very knowledgeable about the area and had plenty of stories and conversation to keep me engaged for the long walk through the forbidden city. She was even was kind enough to take me by a local street vendor to grab some quick jianbing for breakfast before driving to the square. I can't recommend April enough, she was fantastic and I will definitely be taking the tour again when I travel back to Beijing with my family.
My Tour guide Susan was wonderful...
Fiona D(2018年5月)
My Tour guide Susan was wonderful. Very knowledgeable and a pleasure to spend the day with. She was flexible to go to the sections I wanted to see and she even stood in the rain to take photos for me. Thanks again for an amazing tour.
I was in Beijing less than two days...
kedekeka2(2018年1月)
I was in Beijing less than two days and wanted to take in as much as possible. I booked this 1/2 day tour of the Forbidden City through Viator to take place on the morning before I was to leave for the airport. Getting to the airport and through immigration is a whole other adventure.
My guide, Susan, was at the hotel on time and ready to start the tour. I was the only one on the tour so it certainly was a Private Tour. It was a very cold and somewhat hazy December day in Beijing. Susan suggested we take the train, and since I had not yet experienced the Chinese public transportation, we walked a short way to the subway station. I am glad we did. It was very inexpensive and an easy trip to Tian'anman Square. There were very few people in the Square and in the Forbidden City.
I feel extremely lucky that Susan was my guide for the tour. She was delightful to be with, very personable and knowledgeable, and easily adjusted the tour to meet my requests. We covered a lot of ground, saw Tian'anman Square, the Forbidden City, and more. I highly recommend Susan for any tour in Beijing. If I get a chance to go back, I will request her.