Private Tour: Mutianyu/Badaling Great Wall and Temple of Heaven
Active
8h - 9h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Enjoy a hassle-free private day tour of Beijing’s two iconic landmarks, with your choice of Mutianyu or Badaling Great Wall to suit your preference.
Start with your Great Wall pick: opt for Mutianyu’s well-preserved watchtowers and lush, crowd-free vistas, or Badaling’s iconic, historically significant stretch. Round-trip cable car rides are included to ease your exploration of this ancient marvel. Afterward, refuel with a included authentic Chinese lunch before heading to the Temple of Heaven—a UNESCO World Heritage Site where emperors prayed for good harvests. Marvel at its intricate imperial architecture and uncover age-old rituals with the help of a knowledgeable English-speaking guide.
This all-inclusive tour covers all entrance tickets, cable car fares, and lunch—no hidden costs. A dedicated English-speaking guide and driver will accompany you throughout, ensuring a flexible, personalized experience tailored to your pace.
Available options
Mutianyu Great Wall
Mutianyu Great Wall: Visit Mutianyu Great Wall and Temple of Heaven. Including entrance fee, guide, cable car round trip and transfer. <br/>Pickup included
Badaling Great Wall
Badaling Great Wall: Visit Badaling Great Wall and Temple of Heaven, including English speaking guide, private car, entrance fee and cable car.<br/>Pickup included
What's included
Bottled water
Private tour
Hotel pickup and drop-off( For hotels within the 4th ring road of Beijing City)
Lunch
Cable car round trip or ski lift up and toboggan ticket
English speaking tour guide
Transport by private vehicle
Entrance Fee
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Your private driver and professional guide will greet you at your Beijing hotel lobby, holding a personalized name sign for easy identification.
We’ll head first to the Temple of Heaven—the sacred imperial site where Ming and Qing emperors performed grand sacrifices to pray for bumper harvests. Follow your guide on a guided tour of this architectural masterpiece, and dive into the fascinating rituals of imperial heaven worship and harvest prayers. You’ll explore key structures including:
2
Stop 2
First, step into the Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests—the temple’s crown jewel, a striking circular structure crowned with a magnificent triple-tiered roof. Your guide will unpack its profound importance, delving into the building’s ingenious feng shui principles and architectural feats that embody ancient Chinese beliefs of harmony between heaven and earth.
Next, follow the serene Imperial Walkway to the Imperial Vault of Heaven. Here, linger by the legendary Echo Wall—a marvel of acoustic engineering where even soft whispers carry clearly across its curved surface, offering a playful yet fascinating glimpse into ancient craftsmanship.
3
Cap off your temple exploration at the Circular Mound Altar, the sacred stage where Ming and Qing emperors performed grand sacrifices to heaven, praying for national prosperity and bumper harvests. Stand on the Central Heavenly Stone at the altar’s heart, and imagine the imperial rituals of old—feeling the same sense of awe as emperors once did when communing with the heavens.
Spend 2–3 hours immersed in this UNESCO-listed site, with your guide illuminating the rich rituals and cultural stories behind every corner.
Afterwards, we’ll head to a local restaurant for a delicious authentic Chinese lunch to refuel.
4
Stop 4
You have the option to take the cable car (round - trip or one - way) or the chairlift (one - way) to reach the higher sections of the Great Wall with ease. If you choose the chairlift one - way, you can experience the exciting toboggan slide on your way down.
Spend around 2 hours exploring the Great Wall. Walk along the ancient bricks, take in the breathtaking scenery, and capture memorable photos. Your guide will accompany you, sharing fascinating historical stories and answering any questions you may have. Learn about the construction techniques and the strategic role the Great Wall played in ancient times.
After a fulfilling day of exploration, your driver will take you back to your hotel. Your guide will bid you farewell, and you can reflect on a wonderful day filled with rich history, culture, and amazing experiences.
5
When it’s time to head down, if you’ve opted for Mutianyu Great Wall, you can swap the ordinary for fun: skip the cable car and glide down the mountainside on a ski lift and toboggan for an exhilarating end to your Great Wall adventure.
Once the Great Wall exploration wraps up, we’ll retrace our route and drive you back to your Beijing hotel, bringing your unforgettable day tour to a perfect close.
What's not included
Gratuities
Available languages
Guide guide
ZH-TW
CMN
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
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Tripadvisor
5.0
2 reviews
5★
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Important information
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Please advise any specific dietary requirements at time of booking
Vegetarian option is available, please advise at time of booking if required
Important notes
• Comfortable walking shoes are recommended
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
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
