Overview
Get down to business with Beijing's can't miss sites.
This fabulous city is so much to handle that one needs a guide who can anticipate to make the day its fullest.
The storied past of Tiananmen Squaure and the polarizing events that took place here will provide a distinct atmosphere that will leave your mind wandering through China's unique history. Standing as the third biggest city square in the world, the opportunities to explore are endless while the enormity of the area matches its importance. From the May Fourth Movement in 1919 to the controversial protests of the late 1980's this center of Chinese development will forever be one of the most recognized locations in this nation's history. Your personal guide will walk you through the monuments while providing you with a thorough understanding of their historical impact.
Beijing is home to some of the most intriguing destinations in the world and many put your next stop, the Forbidden City, on the top of that list. Designed as a monument to the 24 emperors who dictated from its halls for close to 500 years, this emblematic beacon of Chinese culture is a can't miss stop during your time in this historic city.
Make sure to look for the symbology in the design of the complex's endless buildings. With yellow being the color of the Emperor you will notice that almost all the roofs are covered in yellow tiles. Notice how the main halls and courts are situated in groups of three or the shape of the Qian trigram which represents Heaven. Look for the number of statuettes that line up on the sloping roofs to get an initial understanding of the buildings importance. Your guide will point out many more!
Finish your day with the exploration of the Hou Hai neighborhood which represents one of the most satisfying ways to examine daily life in Beijing. Life along Hou Hai lake has fended off the upwards growth of urban living and provides the perfect opportunity to see "classic" China with endless passageways and restaurants to delve into. The highlight of this neighborhood are the Hutongs which have become synonymous with Beijing living and are formed by the intermixing of alleyways, courtyards and houses. Hop in a rickshaw to cover all the stops in a traditional fashion as you give your feet a break. Here you will grab some lunch with a variety of options from local traditions like an 1,000 year old egg to global favorites. Your time here will end with a walk up the Drum and Bell Towers, once considered the northern limits of the city, for a spectacular view of Hou Hai's intricate design.
- All entrance fees are included in the tour price.
- Lunch is not included in the price. Expect it to cost about 25-30 USD per person.
- Please wear comfortable walking shoes.
- Entrance fees are included.
- If you choose to get a Hutong tour via Pedi-cab it includes 1 or 2 activites with a visit to a local family. The price is 20 USD per person and includes the tip.
- You will be asked for your full name as it reads on your passport and passport number while purchasing this program in order to reserve entrance into the Forbidden City.
- The Forbidden City is closed on Mondays.
Days offered: Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday
Departures:- 08:00 AM, duration: 8 hours
- 09:00 AM, duration: 8 hours
- 10:00 AM, duration: 8 hours
