Beijing:Summer Palace+Hutongs+Temple of Heaven

Discover the essence of Beijing’s cultural heritage with a captivating day tour that immerses you in the city’s most iconic landmarks. From the imperial splendor of the Summer Palace to the charming alleys of the Hutongs and the serene grandeur of the Temple of Heaven, this experience promises to transport you through time and unveil the multifaceted tapestry that defines the Chinese capital. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned explorer, this comprehensive tour offers a seamless blend of history, architecture, and local insights that will leave you with a deeper appreciation for the city’s remarkable past and vibrant present.

Good To Know

• Explore the architectural grandeur and imperial gardens of the Summer Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
• Navigate the charming Hutongs to observe traditional courtyard homes and local life in historic Beijing.
• Visit the iconic Temple of Heaven, another UNESCO World Heritage site, to learn about Taoist practices and architectural beauty.
• Gain insights into daily life through an immersive visit to a local family, including a traditional tea ceremony.
• Enjoy the convenience of private transportation and a knowledgeable, English-speaking guide throughout the day-long tour.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Beijing City Day Tour

The Beijing City Day Tour offers visitors a comprehensive introduction to the city’s top attractions and cultural experiences.

Over the course of 8 hours, the tour takes travelers to iconic sites like the Summer Palace, Drum Tower, and either the Temple of Heaven or Lama Temple. Guests can explore the imperial gardens, climb for panoramic city views, and explore the ancient hutongs.

The experience also includes a visit to a local family, providing insights into daily life.

With a private English-speaking guide, efficient transportation, and skip-the-line access, the tour provides a seamless and immersive way to discover Beijing’s highlights in a single day.

Highlights and Itinerary

Kick off the day with a captivating exploration of the majestic Summer Palace.

Wander through the imperial gardens, marvel at the striking Kunming Lake, and learn about the fascinating history of influential figures like the Dragon Lady Cixi.

Next, climb the iconic Drum Tower for sweeping views of old Beijing and explore its cultural significance.

Then, learn about the atmospheric Hutongs – navigate the 700-year-old commercial streets and tranquil Shichahai lakes to witness local life.

Summer Palace Exploration

Stepping into the majestic Summer Palace, visitors are instantly captivated by the imperial grandeur. Winding paths lead them through the expansive gardens, where they can admire the intricate architecture and learn about key figures like Empress Dowager Cixi. The serene Kunming Lake offers a tranquil respite, allowing visitors to appreciate the palace’s harmonious integration with its natural surroundings.

Key Highlights	Duration
Explore the imperial palace	1.5 hours
Admire the gardens and Kunming Lake	–
Learn about Empress Dowager Cixi	–

Navigating the Summer Palace, guests uncover the rich history and cultural significance that made it a seat of power during China’s dynasties.

Drum Tower Visit

Next, visitors ascend the Drum Tower, an iconic landmark dating back to the Yuan dynasty. The 151-step climb rewards them with breathtaking views over old Beijing.

As they take in the panorama, the guide shares the tower’s historical significance. Built in 1272, it served as a timekeeper, marking the hours with drum beats.

Visitors can explore the interior exhibits and learn about the ancient Chinese timekeeping system. The Drum Tower offers a glimpse into Beijing’s rich past, providing a memorable experience amidst the city’s modern development.

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Hutongs and Shichahai Lakes

After taking in the sweeping vistas from the Drum Tower, visitors will then explore the charming Hutongs and Shichahai lakes.

These 700-year-old commercial streets and lakes offer a glimpse into Beijing’s historical past. Strolling through the Hutongs, visitors can observe local life, visit small shops, and see traditional courtyard homes.

The Shichahai area is known for its scenic lakes, teahouses, and historic buildings. Visitors can opt to take a boat ride on the lakes or simply wander the narrow alleyways.

This cultural experience provides an immersive look at the daily lives of Beijingers and the city’s enduring heritage.

Local Family Visit

During the tour, visitors have the opportunity to visit a local family’s home. This cultural experience offers a unique glimpse into the daily lives of Beijing’s residents. Guests can interact with the family, learn about their traditions, and gain a deeper understanding of the local way of life.

Activity	Duration	Insights Gained
Home Visit	45-60 minutes	Understand local customs, family dynamics, and lifestyle
Conversation	20-30 minutes	Learn about the family’s occupations, hobbies, and perspectives
Traditional Tea Ceremony	15-20 minutes	Appreciate the cultural significance and etiquette of tea drinking

This intimate encounter with a local family is a highlight of the Beijing City Day Tour, providing a truly immersive and authentic cultural experience.

Temple Choice and Experience

Visitors to the Beijing City Day Tour have the option to choose between two renowned temples – the Temple of Heaven (Taoism) or the Lama Temple (Buddhism) – to learn about the rich religious traditions of China.

The Temple of Heaven, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a masterpiece of architecture and design, offering insights into Taoism and the emperor’s reverence for heaven.

Alternatively, the Lama Temple, a Tibetan Buddhist monastery, showcases intricate Buddhist artwork and rituals, providing a glimpse into the country’s diverse spiritual heritage.

Both temple visits offer a profound cultural experience, allowing travelers to enjoy China’s centuries-old religious history.

Tour Inclusions and Information

The Beijing City Day Tour includes a private English-speaking guide for the full 8-hour duration, ensuring personalized attention and insights throughout the excursion. Transportation is provided by DiDi taxi, and all entrance tickets for the attractions are included, allowing seamless access. Visitors can choose between the Temple of Heaven or the Lama Temple to explore Chinese religious traditions. With complimentary skip-the-line access, the tour maximizes time spent at each site. Pickup is available from hotels within the 4th ring road of Beijing, making the tour convenient for travelers.

Inclusions	Exclusions
Private English-speaking guide	Tips for guide
DiDi taxi transportation	All meals
Entrance tickets (choose 1 temple)	Boat ride in Summer Palace
Skip-the-line access	N/A
Hotel pickup (within 4th ring road)	N/A

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Customize the Itinerary Based on My Interests?

Yes, you can customize the itinerary based on your interests. The tour operator is flexible and can adjust the sites visited to match your preferences within the 8-hour tour duration.

What Is the Average Group Size for This Tour?

The tour is a private one, so the group size is flexible and tailored to the client’s preferences. Group size isn’t fixed, allowing for a personalized experience.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Students or Seniors?

The tour doesn’t explicitly mention student or senior discounts. However, it’s worth checking with the tour provider as they may offer reduced pricing for certain age groups or students with valid ID.

Can I Visit Additional Sites Not Included in the Itinerary?

Yes, you can visit additional sites not included in the itinerary, but it’ll incur an extra cost. Speak with the tour operator to customize the tour and add more locations you’d like to see.

What Is the Dress Code for the Temple Visit?

The tour doesn’t specify a dress code for the temple visit, but it’s generally recommended to wear modest, comfortable clothing that covers shoulders and knees out of respect for the religious site. Casual attire is acceptable.

The Sum Up

Enjoy Beijing’s rich history and culture on this comprehensive tour. Explore the majestic Summer Palace, wander through the charming Hutongs, and experience the spiritual significance of the Temple of Heaven. This tour offers a well-rounded glimpse into the city’s iconic landmarks and local life, providing an unforgettable experience for any visitor.

You can check availability for your dates here: