Private Tour: Tiananmen Area Night Walk with Lao She Teahouse Show
Active
3h - 4h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Embark on a magical evening exploration of Beijing’s historic heart with a private English-speaking guide. Wander through the grand, illuminated Tiananmen Square, then stroll Qianmen Street—lined with time-honored shops, snack stalls serving sugar-coated haws and roast duck bites, and nostalgic vintage trams.
Venture into Dashilan’s ancient lanes and nearby hutongs, where Qing Dynasty architecture and century-old stores reveal old Beijing’s charm, and catch a glowing glimpse of the iconic National Centre for the Performing Arts. Cap off the night at Lao She Teahouse: sip fragrant tea while enjoying a captivating folk show with Sichuan face-changing, Beijing opera arias, kung fu, hand shadow puppetry and acrobatics.
Available options
Tickets 6-8th Row
Row 6-8: This option including Show tickets 6-8th Row<br/>Pickup included
VIP 1-2nd Row
This option including the Vip Tickets which is between 1-2nd Row.<br/>Pickup included
Show Tickets 10-12th Row
This option including the show tickets 10-12th Row.<br/>Pickup included
Center Tickets 3-5th Row
This option including Center Tickets between 3-5th Row<br/>Pickup included
What's included
Local guide
Show ticket
One way transportation fee from hotel to Tian'anmen Square
Snacks (during the show at Lao She Teahouse)
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Your tour kicks off with a pickup from your downtown Beijing accommodation, where you’ll meet your private guide and start your evening exploration of Tiananmen Square and its surroundings. Stroll through the illuminated Gate of Heavenly Peace, admire the lit-up bridges and columns, and experience Tiananmen Square’s breathtaking sparkle after dark.
Flag-lowering ceremony viewing is available upon advance reservation. Please note that security checks for square entry can take 1–3 hours depending on the day; our guide will tailor the itinerary accordingly. As you wander the square, your guide will also share fascinating historical insights into the surrounding iconic buildings.
2
Stop 2
From here, stroll to Qianmen Street and the Dashilan commercial district—once Beijing’s busiest thoroughfares during the Ming and Qing dynasties, showcasing traditional local architecture and time-honored merchant culture. Revered as a symbol of old Beijing for its grandeur and unique design, Qianmen Street has thrived as a commercial hub for nearly seven centuries.
Wander its bustling lanes to admire well-preserved classic buildings and iconic vintage "dangdang" trams. Explore renowned century-old shops like Quanjude (roast duck) and Liubiju (traditional pickles), then dive into the lively snack streets—where you can try adventurous local treats like fried scorpions and silkworm pupae (self-paid). Continue to Dashilan’s ancient alleyways to soak up the authentic charm of old Beijing’s commercial heritage.
3
Lao She Teahouse, named for the renowned 20th-century Chinese writer Lao She—his classic play Teahouse remains beloved across China. Step inside to soak up its elegant, unfussy atmosphere, evoking 1930s Beijing’s golden era, while sipping authentic Chinese tea and sampling local desserts.
En route to the teahouse, we’ll make a stop at the National Centre for the Performing Arts. By night, this iconic landmark shines with scattered "mushroom lights" across its smooth ellipsoid shell, resembling twinkling stars against the sky, with its reflection dancing on the surrounding lake for a magical photo backdrop .
The teahouse’s highlight is its traditional variety show, featuring crowd-pleasing acts like Sichuan face-changing, Beijing opera, acrobatics, hand shadow puppetry, kung fu, magic&tea ceremony performances .
Your guide will depart after seating you.
What's not included
Food and drinks, unless specified
Gratuities
Hotel drop off
Available languages
Guide guide
ZH-TW
CMN
EN
Reviews breakdown
Tripadvisor
5.0
3 reviews
5★
3
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Important information
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately
Important notes
• Dress code is smart casual
• 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
