6-Hour Private Beijing Tour: Flower and Fish Market, Panjiayuan Antique Market and 798 Art Zone

Beijing , China

6-Hour Private Beijing Tour: Flower and Fish Market, Panjiayuan Antique Market and 798 Art Zone

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(7 reviews)

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About this experience

Beyond Beijing’s iconic historical landmarks, the city brims with delightful experiences that let you dive into its vibrant local charm—perfect for escaping the usual tourist trail! Spend a memorable weekend uncovering hidden gems: wander through the bustling local flower and fish markets, where colorful blooms, lively aquatic creatures, and the buzz of vendors offer a vivid slice of daily life; hunt for unique treasures at Panjiayuan Antique Market, a paradise for antique lovers, collectors, and anyone eager to spot one-of-a-kind trinkets; or soak up creative energy at 798 Art Zone, where industrial warehouses meet contemporary art, showcasing bold exhibitions, quirky installations, and trendy cafes.

Available options

Private Tour

Pickup included

What's included

Hotel pickup and drop-off

Bottled water

Lunch

Transport by private vehicle

Private tour guide

Detailed itinerary

Your Beijing tour kicks off with a convenient pickup right at your hotel—no hassle, just a smooth start to your day of exploration.
Our first stop is the local flower, fish, and insect market—a lively, sensory-filled hub loved by locals. Here, you’ll meet a charming mix of small creatures: gliding turtles, darting colorful fish, fluffy rabbits and chinchillas, chirpy budgerigars and parrots, plus intriguing reptiles like iguanas for unique interests.

It’s not just for animal lovers, though—wander further to find more treasures. Jewelry stands out, with delicate jade and semi-precious stone pieces (bracelets, necklaces, loose gems) that make one-of-a-kind souvenirs. Every corner has a surprise, perfect for soaking up Beijing’s everyday charm.

Next, we’ll head to Panjiayuan Antique Market—a beloved hub where vendors from across China gather daily to sell handmade crafts and artworks (though weekends tend to be livelier with more stalls). As a bustling center for Chinese folk handcrafts (both for sale and collection), it’s packed with unique finds: jewelry, ceramics, calligraphy, teapots, ethnic clothing, Buddha statues, and paper lanterns. You’ll also spot one-of-a-kind pieces like Cultural Revolution memorabilia, PLA belts, Ming- and Qing-style furniture, old pipes, opium scales, and painted human skulls—plus countless other treasures waiting to be discovered any day of the week.

Stop 3

While you browse the market’s treasures, your guide will tailor handy shopping tips and advice to your interests—whether you’re hunting for authentic antiques, unique crafts, or memorable souvenirs, they’ll help you navigate with confidence.

After a relaxing lunch to recharge, we’ll head to your final stop: 798 Art Zone. Once a cluster of disused factories built with East German assistance, this sprawling space has been transformed into Beijing’s iconic hub for contemporary art. Today, it’s home to a vibrant mix of art galleries, chic boutiques, cozy coffee shops, and distinctive restaurants, where industrial brick walls and exposed steel beams blend seamlessly with cutting-edge art.

When your art-filled exploration comes to an end, we’ll arrange a comfortable drop-off back at your Beijing hotel, wrapping up your day of discovery perfectly.

What's not included

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 4.9

7 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Children must be accompanied by an adult

Please advise any specific dietary requirements at time of booking

Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately

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