Hutongs of Ancient Beijing+Drum Tower+Local Snacks

Uncover the captivating essence of ancient Beijing through an immersive exploration of its iconic hutongs. This small-group tour offers a chance to stroll through narrow alleyways lined with traditional courtyard houses, visit the historic Drum Tower, and savor authentic local snacks. More than just a sightseeing experience, this journey promises to unveil the rich cultural heritage that has shaped the city over centuries. Prepare to be enchanted as you explore the hidden charms of this bustling metropolis, where the past and present seamlessly intertwine.

Good To Know

• Experience the historic hutongs of ancient Beijing, including a visit to the iconic Drum Tower and opportunities to sample local snacks.
• Set out on a 3-hour small-group tour with a maximum of 6 participants, priced at €66.45 per person.
• Explore traditional courtyard houses and engage with residents for authentic cultural insights and interactions.
• Discover hidden gems like Taoist temples and stroll along the charming Yandai Byway during the tour.
• Benefit from the expertise of a knowledgeable English-speaking guide and receive high customer ratings for exceptional value and experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The tour offers visitors a chance to experience the hutongs of ancient Beijing, along with a visit to the Drum Tower and an opportunity to sample local snacks.

Priced at €66.45 per person, the 3-hour small-group experience is limited to just 6 participants, ensuring a more intimate and personalized adventure.

Guests can take advantage of the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve now and pay later.

Whether you’re seeking an immersive cultural experience or a glimpse into Beijing’s rich history, this tour promises to deliver an unforgettable journey through the city’s charming alleyways and iconic landmarks.

Unique Cultural Experience

Hutongs are unique to Beijing, representing the local culture and way of life. Visitors can experience this firsthand through rickshaw rides through ancient alleyways, offering a glimpse into history.

At a local family’s courtyard house, you’ll learn about traditional architecture and daily routines. The authentic interactions with locals provide an enriching experience:

• Witness the vibrant street life and bustling local markets
• Engage with residents and gain insights into their traditions
• Explore hidden gems like Taoist temples and historic commercial streets
• Savor the flavors of Beijing’s iconic snacks and delicacies

This unique culture promises to leave a lasting impression on your trip to China’s capital.

Tour Itinerary

When does the tour begin?

The tour kicks off at 2:00 PM, where guests meet the guide at Exit A2 of the Shichahai subway station.

From there, the group will visit a Taoist temple near the Jing-hang canal and Wanning bridge.

Next, they’ll stroll along the ancient commercial street of Yandai Byway, with free time to sample local snacks and browse for souvenirs.

The tour will then explore traditional courtyard houses, learning stories from the knowledgeable guide.

Finally, the group will visit the Square between the Drum and Bell Towers to gain insights into Beijing’s rich history.

The tour concludes around 4:30-5:00 PM.

Inclusions and Requirements

The tour includes a knowledgeable English-speaking guide who’ll share insights and stories throughout the experience.

The guide will pick you up at the designated meeting point. While the tour price doesn’t cover food, drinks, or public transportation costs, it’s recommended to bring Chinese cash for any purchases you’d like to make along the way.

To fully enjoy the experience, wear comfortable shoes and be prepared to learn about the local culture.

• Knowledgeable English-speaking tour guide
• Pick-up from designated meeting point
• Bring Chinese cash for purchases
• Wear comfortable shoes

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Customer Feedback and Ratings

Visitors have overwhelmingly praised the Hutongs of Ancient Beijing tour, awarding it an impressive 5/5 overall rating based on 23 reviews.

Reviewers consistently highlight the tour’s exceptional value for money, with a 4.8/5 rating in this category. Guests rave about the engaging and knowledgeable guides, like Lisa and Jenny, who provide fascinating insights into the local culture and history.

Many also mention the enriching experience of interacting with locals and exploring the charming alleyways and traditional courtyard houses.

Getting to the Meeting Point

As per the tour details, the meeting point is conveniently located at Exit A2 of the Shichahai subway station. This makes it easy for participants to find the starting point, as the subway station is a well-known landmark in the city.

To reach the meeting spot, you can:

• Take the subway and get off at Shichahai station
• Look for Exit A2 and head towards the designated meeting location
• Arrive a few minutes early to ensure you don’t miss the start of the tour
• Keep an eye out for the tour guide, who’ll be waiting to greet the group

What to Expect on the Tour

On this 3-hour Hutongs tour, participants can expect an immersive cultural experience that takes them through the ancient alleyways of Beijing. The tour begins at Shichahai subway station, from where visitors will explore a Taoist temple, stroll along the historic Yandai Byway, and discover traditional courtyard houses. Along the way, the knowledgeable guide will provide insights into the local culture and history. The tour culminates at the iconic Drum and Bell Towers, where participants can learn about the significance of these landmarks in the lives of Beijingers. Throughout the experience, visitors will have opportunities to engage with locals and savor authentic snacks, creating lasting memories of this unique journey.

Activity	Description
Taoist Temple	Visit a temple near the Jing-hang canal and Wanning bridge
Yandai Byway	Explore an ancient commercial street with free time for snacks and souvenirs
Courtyard Houses	Learn about the traditional architecture and daily life
Drum and Bell Towers	Understand the historical significance of these iconic landmarks
Interaction with Locals	Engage with residents to experience authentic cultural exchange

Frequently Asked Questions

Is This Tour Appropriate for Children?

This tour may not be the most suitable for children, as it involves walking through narrow alleyways and interactions with locals that could be challenging for younger participants. However, older children interested in cultural experiences may still enjoy the tour.

Can We Book This Tour in Multiple Languages?

Yes, this tour can be booked in multiple languages. The tour provider offers the experience in English, with the option to arrange it in other languages upon request, subject to availability of multilingual guides.

Do We Need to Bring Our Own Water/Snacks?

It’s not required to bring your own water or snacks, as the tour does not include them. However, you may want to pack some to have on hand during the 3-hour experience for your own comfort.

Is There an Option for a Private Tour?

Yes, there is a private tour option available. The private tour allows for a more personalized experience with just your group, but it may have a higher price point than the small group tour.

How Accessible Is the Tour for People With Disabilities?

The tour is generally accessible for people with disabilities, though wheelchair users may find some portions of the hutong area challenging. The tour provider can accommodate most needs with advance notice and coordination.

The Sum Up

The hutongs of ancient Beijing offer a captivating glimpse into the city’s rich cultural heritage. Visitors can enjoy a small-group tour that includes a visit to the iconic Drum Tower, where they can learn about its historical significance. Along the way, participants can savor local snacks, enhancing their experience of authentic Beijing cuisine. This immersive journey provides a unique opportunity to engage with local residents and discover hidden gems within the bustling city.

You can check availability for your dates here: