Summer Palace and Hot Spring Private Tour from Beijing

Beijing , China

Summer Palace and Hot Spring Private Tour from Beijing

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About this experience

If you're looking for the ultimate relaxation experience during your visit to Beijing, then a Summer Palace and Hot Spring Private Tour is just what you need! This tour gives you the chance to explore the stunning imperial gardens of the Summer Palace, where emperors once sought solace from the bustling city. Enjoy a peaceful stroll along the picturesque Kunming Lake and marvel at the intricate architectural designs of ancient pavilions and bridges. After working up an appetite, indulge in a delicious traditional Chinese meal before heading to a nearby hot spring resort for some well-deserved pampering. Soak in the mineral-rich waters and feel your stress melt away as you take in panoramic views of lush mountains and rolling hills. This tour is the perfect combination of cultural exploration and rejuvenating relaxation – a must-do for anyone visiting Beijing!

Available options

Private Tour

Pickup included

What's included

Hotel pickup and drop-off

Hot Spring Ticket

Professional guide

Bottled water

Entrance fee

Chinese lunch

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Your professional guide and driver will meet you at the lobby of your hotel. They are experienced and well-versed in providing a seamless and enjoyable tour experience. The guide will introduce themselves and briefly go over the day's schedule, answering any initial questions you may have. Then, you'll be comfortably transferred to the first destination of the day - the Summer Palace.
The Summer Palace is a masterpiece of Chinese landscape garden design. It served as a summer retreat for the imperial family during the Qing Dynasty. Spanning over 290 hectares, it combines palaces, temples, pavilions, and beautiful natural scenery.

Stop 2 Pass by

Next is the Hall of Happiness and Longevity, it was the living quarters of Empress Dowager Cixi. It is a magnificent building with a large courtyard. The interior is decorated with precious antiques and traditional Chinese furniture. Here, you can learn about the luxurious lifestyle of the imperial family and the political power Cixi held during her reign. The hall's design and furnishings showcase the opulence and status of the empress dowager.
The Long Corridor is a covered walkway that stretches for 728 meters. It is famous for its 14,000 painted scenes, including historical stories, folk tales, and natural landscapes. As you stroll along, your guide will explain the meaning behind some of the most interesting paintings, giving you a deeper understanding of Chinese art and culture. The Long Corridor not only serves as a passageway but also as an art gallery, connecting different parts of the Summer Palace's scenic areas.

Upon arrival, you will visit the most important buildings. First stop is the Hall of Happiness and Longevity was the place where the emperor held court and handled government affairs during his stay at the Summer Palace. The hall features a throne and various imperial symbols. Here, you can learn about the political activities that took place within these walls and how the imperial court functioned. The architecture and interior decoration reflect the grandeur and formality of the Qing - Dynasty imperial power.
Yu Lan Tang was the residence of Emperor Guangxu during his stay in the Summer Palace. It is named after the magnolia trees planted in its courtyard. The hall has a simple yet elegant layout. Emperor Guangxu was under the control of Empress Dowager Cixi for a long time, and this place witnessed some of the power struggles and political changes of that era. You can imagine the life of the emperor in this relatively private living area.

Arrive at the Marble Boat, also known as the Qingyan Stone Boat, is a unique structure made entirely of marble. It was built in 1755. Standing on the boat, you can enjoy the beautiful views of Kunming Lake and the surrounding gardens. Your guide will share the historical significance of this structure, such as its symbolism in imperial architecture.
For those interested, there is an option to take a relaxing boat ride on Kunming Lake at your own expense. As you glide across the water, you can admire the panorama of the Summer Palace from a different perspective. The lake is dotted with small islands and bridges, adding to the charm of the scenery. Please note that the cost of this boat ride is not included in the all - inclusive tour price.
A delicious Chinese lunch is included in the tour. You'll have the opportunity to taste a variety of traditional Beijing dishes.

Finally, as the cherry on top of this wonderful tour, we'll head to Chunhuiyuan Hot Spring. Here, you can fully immerse yourself in the warm, mineral - rich waters, letting go of all the fatigue accumulated during the day while enjoying the serene environment. After this relaxing hot spring experience, our professional team will ensure you are safely returned to your hotel. This tour truly encapsulates the essence of Beijing, with its blend of rich culture and rejuvenating relaxation, and we hope it will leave you with unforgettable memories.

What's not included

Personal cost in the hot spring

Additional entrance fee in the Summer Palace (to the museums inside the Summer Palace)

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

ZH-TW CMN EN

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0

2 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Specialized infant seats are available

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Important notes

• Dress code is smart casual
• Please bring your own swimsuits
• Tour last between 8-9 hours, if you want to extend the tour, then please pay 15USD to your driver and 15USD to your guide for each of their extra hour
• During weekends (Friday to Sunday) Jiuhua Hot spring have the time limit of 4 hours.The other days there is no time limit.

About Beijing

Beijing, the capital of China, is a city of immense historical significance and modern dynamism. It's home to iconic landmarks, ancient palaces, and a vibrant contemporary culture that blends tradition with modernity. The city offers a unique mix of ancient history, cultural treasures, and modern advancements.

Top Attractions

The Great Wall of China

One of the most iconic landmarks in the world, the Great Wall of China stretches over 21,000 kilometers. The most accessible sections near Beijing are Badaling and Mutianyu.

Historical Half day to full day ¥40-80 (depending on the section)

Forbidden City

The Forbidden City, also known as the Palace Museum, was the imperial palace during the Ming and Qing dynasties. It houses an extensive collection of artifacts and offers a glimpse into China's imperial past.

Historical 2-3 hours ¥60 (March-October), ¥40 (November-February)

Temple of Heaven

The Temple of Heaven is a complex of religious buildings where emperors of the Ming and Qing dynasties performed annual ceremonies of prayer to heaven for good harvests.

Historical 1-2 hours ¥15 (Temple area), ¥35 (Temple and park)

Summer Palace

The Summer Palace is a vast ensemble of lakes, gardens, and palaces. It served as a retreat for emperors to escape the summer heat and is known for its beautiful landscapes and architecture.

Historical 3-4 hours ¥30 (Park and palace area), ¥60 (Boat ride included)

Hutongs

Hutongs are traditional narrow alleys and residential neighborhoods that offer a glimpse into old Beijing's way of life. Exploring hutongs provides an authentic experience of local culture and history.

Cultural Half day to full day Free to explore, but consider paying for guided tours or Rickshaw rides

798 Art Zone

The 798 Art Zone is a contemporary art district located in a former military factory. It's home to numerous art galleries, studios, and cultural events, making it a hub for Beijing's art scene.

Cultural 1-2 hours Free to explore, but some galleries may charge admission

Must-Try Local Dishes

Peking Duck

A iconic dish of Beijing, Peking Duck is roasted to perfection and served with thin pancakes, hoisin sauce, and scallions. The crispy skin and tender meat make it a must-try for any visitor.

Main Course Contains meat (duck), gluten (pancakes and sauce)

Zhajiangmian (Fried Sauce Noodles)

A popular Beijing street food, Zhajiangmian consists of hand-pulled noodles topped with a rich, savory sauce made from fermented soybean paste and minced pork. It's often served with cucumber and bean sprouts.

Main Course Contains meat (pork), gluten (noodles and sauce)

Jianbing (Savory Crepes)

A popular Beijing street food, Jianbing is a savory crepe made with a batter of wheat and mung bean flour, filled with egg, scallions, and hoisin sauce. It's crispy, delicious, and perfect for a quick breakfast on the go.

Breakfast Contains eggs, gluten (batter and sauce)

Baozi (Steamed Buns)

Baozi are steamed buns filled with various ingredients, such as pork, beef, or vegetables. They are a popular street food and can be found in many markets and food stalls throughout Beijing.

Snack Can be vegetarian or contain meat, depending on the filling; contains gluten (bun)

Popular Activities

Hiking the Great Wall Rock climbing in the Huairou District Mountain biking in the outskirts of Beijing Boat rides on Kunming Lake at the Summer Palace Tea ceremonies at traditional teahouses Gardens and parks at the Temple of Heaven and Beihai Park Exploring the Forbidden City and other imperial palaces Visiting temples and religious sites

Best Time to Visit

September to October, April to May

These months offer the most pleasant weather with clear skies and comfortable temperatures, making it ideal for sightseeing. The city is vibrant with cultural festivals and outdoor activities.

15-25°C (59-77°F) 59-77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Mandarin Chinese
Widely spoken: English (in tourist areas and by younger generations)
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere

Currency

Chinese Yuan (CNY)

Time Zone

GMT+8 (China Standard Time)

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe, but exercise caution in crowded areas and tourist spots

Beijing is generally a safe city for travelers, with low crime rates and a strong police presence. However, petty crimes such as pickpocketing and scams can occur, especially in crowded areas and tourist spots. Exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings, particularly at night and in less touristy areas.

Important Precautions:

• Be cautious when using taxis, and insist on using the meter or agreeing on a price before starting the journey
• Keep valuables secure and be aware of your surroundings in crowded areas and tourist spots
• Be wary of strangers offering services or attractions at inflated prices, and only use licensed and reputable tour guides and operators

Getting there

By air

Beijing Capital International Airport • 32 km (20 miles) northeast of city center
Beijing Daxing International Airport • 46 km (29 miles) south of city center

By train

Beijing Railway Station, Beijing West Railway Station

By bus

Beijing Sihui Bus Station, Beijing Liuliqiao Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

The Beijing Subway is efficient, affordable, and widely used. It's the best way to navigate the city, especially during peak hours.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Didi Chuxing, Tencent Taxi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Dongcheng Xicheng Chaoyang Haidian Shijingshan

Day trips

The Great Wall at Mutianyu

70 km (43 miles) northeast of Beijing • Full day

The Great Wall at Mutianyu is a less crowded and more scenic section of the Great Wall, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. It's a popular day trip from Beijing for those looking to experience the Great Wall without the large crowds.

The Great Wall at Jinshanling

130 km (81 miles) northeast of Beijing • Full day

The Great Wall at Jinshanling is a remote and less restored section of the Great Wall, offering a more authentic and adventurous experience. It's a popular day trip for those looking to explore the Great Wall's wild and rugged beauty.

The Great Wall at Simatai

120 km (75 miles) northeast of Beijing • Full day

The Great Wall at Simatai is a unique and well-preserved section of the Great Wall, known for its dramatic and picturesque landscape. It's a popular day trip for those looking to experience the Great Wall's beauty and history in a more intimate setting.

Festivals

Chinese New Year (Spring Festival) • January or February (varies by lunar calendar) Lantern Festival • 15th day of the first lunar month (varies by year) Qingming Festival (Tomb-Sweeping Day) • April 4th or 5th (varies by solar calendar)

Pro tips

Use the official Beijing Subway app for route planning and real-time updates
Carry a VPN to access restricted apps and websites, such as Google, Facebook, and Instagram
Learn a few basic Mandarin phrases to enhance your experience and interact with locals
Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the city's many attractions and neighborhoods
Try local snacks and street food for an authentic and delicious culinary experience