Beijing’s most enriching cultural experiences come through its hands-on workshops. I love how authentic local instructors make traditional skills approachable for visitors. The Chinese Cooking Class stands out – you’ll explore local markets, learn wok techniques, and prepare classic dishes in a home kitchen setting. For movement enthusiasts, the morning Tai Chi and Kung Fu sessions near historic temples provide both exercise and cultural context. The intimate calligraphy workshops, where masters guide you through brush strokes and character meanings, offer a peaceful way to connect with Chinese artistic traditions.
Our tested picks for Beijing’s best workshops will help you learn directly from local experts.
Key Points
- Immersive cooking classes in Beijing, including a 5-hour Chinese cooking class with market tour and hands-on preparation, as well as a private jian bing crepe-making workshop.
- Cultural experiences like Shaolin kung fu classes, Chinese calligraphy workshops, and tai chi lessons, offering a deeper understanding of traditional Chinese practices.
- Convenience and accessibility features, such as cozy home environments, personalized attention, small group sizes, and free cancellation policies for cooking and cultural classes.
- Highly rated online cooking classes covering popular Chinese dishes like General Tso’s chicken, dumplings, and dandan noodles, with tailored experiences and cultural insights.
- Comprehensive cultural tours that combine sightseeing at the Temple of Heaven, dumpling-making sessions, and private tai chi lessons, catering to diverse traveler needs.
Experience Beijing: Chinese Cooking Class and Market Tour
The Chinese Cooking Class and Market Tour in Beijing offers travelers an immersive culinary experience.
With a 4.9-star rating from 75 reviews, the 5-hour class includes a market tour for fresh ingredient selection and hands-on preparation of local delicacies in a cozy home environment.
The menu changes daily and includes at least one vegetarian dish. Participants will learn to use woks and cleavers while exploring seasonings for flavor.
Lunch with tea and water is provided, and alcoholic drinks are available for purchase.
The class is led by a professional English-speaking teacher and is limited to a maximum of 6 travelers, ensuring personalized attention.
Read our full review: Experience Beijing: Chinese Cooking Class and Market Tour Review
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Chinese Kungfu Class in Old Temple Beside Forbidden Ci
A hands-on Kung Fu class awaits visitors in a centuries-old temple just steps from the Forbidden City.
For €44.80, guests can learn the basics of Chinese Kung Fu from a master trained since age 5. The 1-hour class, limited to 9 participants, covers Shaolin and traditional styles while exploring practical applications in daily life.
Reviewers praise the personalized instruction, skilled trainer, and included tea ceremony. With a 5/5 rating and 4.9/5 for value, this class offers a unique cultural experience in an atmospheric temple setting.
Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance, and a reserve now, pay later option is available for 3 days.
Read our full review: Chinese Kungfu Class in Old Temple Beside Forbidden Ci Review
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Online Cooking Class Beijing Dumplings and Cuisine by Sunflowerli Renowned Chef
Hosted by renowned Chef Sunflowerli, this online cooking class offers participants the opportunity to learn the art of crafting authentic Beijing dumplings and other signature Chinese cuisine from the comfort of their own homes.
With a 5.0 rating and 100% traveler recommendation, the class provides a private, interactive experience tailored to students’ schedules and skill levels.
Featuring a variety of dish options, including vegan choices, the class also includes cultural insights and personal anecdotes from the chef.
Participants receive an ingredient list in advance and engage in hands-on cooking under Sunflowerli’s expert guidance.
Read our full review: Online Cooking Class Beijing Dumplings and Cuisine by Sunflowerli Renowned Chef Review
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Online Cooking Class General Tsos Chicken by Sunflower Li
How does Chef Sunflower Li’s online cooking class on preparing the beloved General Tso’s Chicken compare to her acclaimed Beijing dumpling course?
While the Beijing dumpling class delves into traditional Chinese cuisine, this General Tso’s Chicken class focuses on a popular North American dish with Chinese roots.
Priced at $20 per person for 1.5 hours, the class is great for team building, birthdays, and more. Participants will learn to make the iconic dish using a detailed ingredient list and Chef Sunflower’s expert guidance.
The online format via Zoom allows folks from around the world to enjoy this interactive cooking experience, perfect for those seeking to expand their culinary horizons.
Read our full review: Online Cooking Class General Tsos Chicken by Sunflower Li Review
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Chinese Calligraphy Class for Small Group
Nestled in the heart of Beijing, the Chinese Calligraphy Class for Small Group offers an immersive cultural experience for those seeking to explore the ancient art.
With a 98% traveler recommendation and a Badge of Excellence, this class promises personal instruction in a small-group format. Participants can choose from a range of class lengths, from 30 minutes to 2 hours, and receive all necessary calligraphy supplies.
Priced competitively starting at €19.26 per person, the class is accessible to all. Located at the Hilton Beijing Wangfujing, the class is conveniently accessible by taxi or subway.
Whether you’re a beginner or an art enthusiast, this experience promises to deepen your understanding of Chinese culture.
Read our full review: Chinese Calligraphy Class for Small Group Review
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Online Cooking Class Dim Sum by Chef Sunflower Li
The Online Cooking Class: Dim Sum by Chef Sunflower Li offers an engaging virtual experience for those eager to master the art of authentic Chinese dim sum.
Lasting 1.5 hours and priced at $25 per person, the class allows participants to learn from a renowned chef in the comfort of their own homes.
Suitable for all ages, the class features vegan options and is designed for both European and US time zones.
Participants receive a list of required ingredients prior to the private Zoom session and can expect a flexible schedule to accommodate their schedules.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this class is perfect for team building, birthdays, or date nights.
Read our full review: Online Cooking Class Dim Sum by Chef Sunflower Li Review
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Mutianyu Great Wall With Dumpling Cooking Class Day Tour
Set out on a captivating day trip that blends the grandeur of the Mutianyu Great Wall with the art of authentic Chinese dumpling making.
This private tour includes hotel pickup, drop-off, and all entrance fees. Soar up the Great Wall via chairlift and glide down on a thrilling toboggan ride. Enjoy free time to hike and take in the breathtaking vistas.
Savor a local lunch to fuel your explorations. The tour also offers wheelchair accessibility and infant seats, accommodating a range of travelers.
With 14 reviews and a 100% recommendation rate, this action-packed adventure is a must for those seeking an immersive cultural experience in Beijing.
Read our full review: Mutianyu Great Wall With Dumpling Cooking Class Day Tour Review
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Online Cooking Class Orange Chicken by Chef Sunflower Li
For those seeking an immersive cultural experience beyond the Mutianyu Great Wall, Chef Sunflower Li offers an online cooking class focusing on the popular North American dish, Orange Chicken.
The 1.5-hour class is priced from $20 per person and available in English with a vegan option. Participants can book and pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
The class suits both kids and adults, providing insights into traditional Chinese cuisine. After booking, students receive a Zoom link and ingredient list to follow along as Chef Sunflower Li guides them through the preparation steps online.
The class is ideal for team building, birthdays, and special occasions.
Read our full review: Online Cooking Class Orange Chicken by Chef Sunflower Li Review
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Jian Bing Workshop – Bejings Favourite Street Food
Visitors can partake in a private cooking class to master the art of jian bing, Beijing’s beloved street crepe.
The Jian Bing Workshop, located in the heart of Beijing, offers an instructor-led session focused on making this traditional delicacy from scratch. Participants can customize their jian bing with a variety of fillings and flavors, and enjoy their handmade creations during the class.
The 5.0-rated experience is recommended by all travelers, making it a must-try for those seeking an authentic Chinese culinary adventure.
With convenient meeting and pickup locations, as well as accessibility for infants and service animals, the Jian Bing Workshop is a delightful option for exploring Beijing’s vibrant food scene.
Read our full review: Jian Bing Workshop – Bejings Favourite Street Food Review
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Chinese Class With Local Original Beijing Teacher
A 1-hour Chinese class with an original Beijing-born teacher awaits visitors in the hutong yard beside the Forbidden City.
The class focuses on basic casual words or specific requested vocabulary, providing a deep introduction to Beijing’s original life and culture. Discussions cover various topics related to Chinese culture, allowing participants to experience the local culture in the hutong area.
Priced from $41.07 per person, the class offers a reserve now & pay later option and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Private groups are available, and the host or greeter speaks English. Wheelchair accessibility and free Chinese tea are included.
Read our full review: Chinese Class With Local Original Beijing Teacher Review
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Beijing Private Tai Chi Class
Travelers seeking an immersive experience in traditional Chinese culture can embark on a private one-hour tai chi lesson in Beijing.
The class teaches the basics of this Chinese martial art, which promotes overall health through slow, deliberate movements combined with deep breathing and focus. Instruction includes Taoist philosophy, yin and yang concepts, and meditative elements.
Highly qualified English-speaking tai chi masters provide personalized attention, with flexible scheduling available. Located near the Tian Tan Dong Men subway station, the activity ends back at the meeting point.
Priced from $58 per person, the class has earned 4.5 stars across 8 reviews praising the knowledgeable instructor.
Read our full review: Beijing Private Tai Chi Class Review
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Beijing: Private Cooking Class and Temple of Heaven Tour
Those seeking a more immersive cultural experience in Beijing can embark on a private cooking class and tour of the iconic Temple of Heaven.
Priced from $280 per person, this 5-hour activity allows you to learn to cook traditional Chinese dishes like Sichuan-style chicken and dumplings.
After visiting a local market, you’ll prepare authentic dishes and enjoy a Chinese tea ceremony.
The tour also includes a private guided exploration of the historic Temple of Heaven complex, where you’ll learn about its significance to the Chinese people.
Transportation, including hotel pickup and drop-off, is provided in a comfortable private van.
Read our full review: Beijing: Private Cooking Class and Temple of Heaven Tour Review
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Beijing Private Day Tour: Lama Temple,Hutong Tour and Tai Chi Lesson W/ Lunch
On this immersive full-day tour, visitors can experience the highlights of Beijing’s cultural heritage.
The tour includes a visit to the UNESCO-listed Temple of Heaven, where emperors prayed for good harvests. Participants will also enjoy a private Tai Chi lesson from a master and a rickshaw ride through the historic hutong neighborhoods.
The tour culminates with a visit to a local family home for a hands-on dumpling-making session, followed by a lunch featuring the homemade dumplings.
With private transportation, an English-speaking guide, and all entrance fees included, this tour offers a comprehensive and hassle-free way to explore Beijing’s rich cultural traditions.
Read our full review: Beijing Private Day Tour: Lama Temple,Hutong Tour and Tai Chi Lesson W/ Lunch Review
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Online Potstickers Class by Sunflower Li Great Team Building
Chef Sunflower Li’s online potstickers class presents a great opportunity for team building.
The 1.5-hour class teaches participants to make authentic Chinese potstickers from scratch, suitable for both meat lovers and vegetarians. Conducted via Zoom, the class is designed for European or US time zones and offers flexible scheduling to suit any group’s needs.
Participants will learn techniques from a friendly and experienced instructor and receive a detailed ingredients list upon booking. This interactive class is ideal for company events, birthdays, and other celebrations, enjoyed by groups from around the world.
With vegan options and wheelchair accessibility, the online potstickers class caters to diverse preferences and needs.
Read our full review: Online Potstickers Class by Sunflower Li Great Team Building Review
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Water Color Class in Beijing
Travelers frequently praise the exceptional Water Color Class in Beijing, earning a perfect 5.0 rating from 9 reviews.
Priced at $65 per person, this 1.5-hour class offers an immersive experience in Chinese watercolor painting techniques. Led by an excellent art teacher, participants receive all necessary supplies and materials.
The class is suitable for beginners and art enthusiasts alike, with the instructor providing individualized attention to enhance the learning experience.
Located at the Hilton Beijing Wangfujing, the class is easily accessible via taxi or subway.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours prior, this creative workshop is a must-try for those seeking a unique cultural activity in the heart of Beijing.
Read our full review: Water Color Class in Beijing Review
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Online Cooking Class Dandan Noodles by Chef Sunflower Li
The Online Cooking Class: Dandan Noodles by Chef Sunflower Li offers an immersive virtual experience for those seeking to explore authentic Chinese cuisine.
Priced at $20 per person, the 1-hour class is conducted in English and is wheelchair accessible.
Participants can enjoy the flexibility of scheduling, as the class is designed to suit European and US time zones.
The class features a hands-on learning experience, with Chef Sunflower Li sharing insights into traditional Chinese cooking.
Participants will learn to make the popular Dandan Noodles and receive the family recipe post-class.
A vegan option is available, making it suitable for guests of all dietary preferences.
Read our full review: Online Cooking Class Dandan Noodles by Chef Sunflower Li Review
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Online Cooking Class Steamed Buns by Chef Sunflower Li
Priced from $25.00 per person, the Online Cooking Class: Steamed Buns by Chef Sunflower Li offers a 90-minute to 2-hour immersive experience for those eager to learn the art of crafting authentic Chinese steamed buns.
Taught in English, the private Zoom class caters to various time zones and skillsets, making it ideal for families, foodies, and groups. Participants will learn to make the buns from scratch, receiving a family recipe after the session.
With vegetarian and vegan options available, the class engages learners of all ages and backgrounds. Sunflower’s engaging teaching style and the delicious final product have earned the class a perfect 5-star rating from past attendees.
Read our full review: Online Cooking Class Steamed Buns by Chef Sunflower Li Review
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Online Cooking Class Hand Pulled Noodles by Sunflower Li
Chef Sunflower Li’s Online Cooking Class: Hand Pulled Noodles offers a captivating 2-hour experience for those eager to master the art of crafting authentic “Biáng Biáng Noodles” from Xi’an, China.
Priced at $25 per person, the class includes vegan options and all recipes made from scratch. Participants will receive a Zoom link and ingredient list after booking, and they can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
The class is designed for both European and US time zones, making it accessible to a global audience.
With rave reviews highlighting Chef Li’s enthusiastic teaching style, the class is perfect for team-building, birthdays, and family activities.
Read our full review: Online Cooking Class Hand Pulled Noodles by Sunflower Li Review
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Noon Calligraphy Class
Situated in the heart of Beijing, the Noon Calligraphy Class offers a captivating 30-minute to 1.5-hour experience for those eager to explore the art of Chinese calligraphy.
Priced from $20 per person, the class caters to adults and kids, novices, and experienced individuals alike. Conveniently located near the East Gate of the Forbidden City, the class provides expert guidance from seasoned instructors and all necessary calligraphy supplies.
Guests can reserve their spot without payment and enjoy free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Whether seeking a deeper appreciation for this ancient art or hoping to create visually stunning characters, the Noon Calligraphy Class is an immersive and rewarding experience.
Read our full review: Noon Calligraphy Class Review
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Beijing Wangfujing Calligraphy Class Nearby Forbidden City
Located in the heart of the bustling Wangfujing district, near the iconic Forbidden City, the Hutong Calligraphy Class offers an immersive cultural experience for visitors seeking to explore the ancient art of Chinese calligraphy.
The class, ranging from 45 minutes to 2 hours, is priced from $35 per person and includes all necessary supplies. Suitable for all skill levels, the class is led by an excellent instructor, Richard, who’s praised for his calm demeanor and personalized guidance.
With an overall rating of 4.9/5 from 14 reviews, the class promises an enriching journey into the world of calligraphy and cultural inspiration.
Easily accessible by taxi or subway, the class is a must-try for those seeking a unique cultural activity in Beijing.
Read our full review: Beijing Wangfujing Calligraphy Class Nearby Forbidden City Review
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Sum Up
Beijing offers a range of engaging workshops and classes for visitors. From Chinese cooking and martial arts to calligraphy, there’s something for every interest. Whether you’re a beginner or have experience, these classes provide an opportunity to learn about Chinese culture and learn new skills. With options for in-person and online instruction, it’s easy to find the perfect experience to make your trip to Beijing even more memorable.