Private Beijing Jingshan Hill, Beihai, and Hutongs with Imperial Lunch/Dinner
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Private Beijing Jingshan Hill, Beihai, and Hutongs with Imperial Lunch/Dinner

Active
(6 reviews)
7h - 8h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

This private day tour is designed for people who enjoy walking and a little bit hiking as you will walk around in two famous imperial parks plus the original part of Beijing. During this tour, you will visit beautiful Jingshan Hill, Beihai Park, Hutong, and Houhai. Lunch will be served in the famous Imperial Cuisine restaurant located inside of Beihai Park where you will unveil the emperor's secret dining preference.

Available options

Private Beijing Jingshan Hill, Beihai, and Hutongs with Imperial Lunch/Dinner

Pickup included

What's included

Hotel pickup and drop-off
Professional and friendly guide
Mineral water
Imperial Lunch/Dinner with drinks
Entrance fee

Detailed itinerary

1
Stop 1

Meet your guide in the hotel lobby at your preferred time and begin by climbing Jingshan Hill in Jingshan Park, the highest point along the central axis of Beijing. Made from soil dug during the building of the moat at the Forbidden City, this artificial hill was located according to the dictates of Feng shui: to protect the imperial palace from the evil wind from the north. Today, the hill is best-known as a place to enjoy outstanding panoramic views over the walled palace and downtown Beijing.

2
Stop 2

Next, walk to Beihai Park, an imperial garden to the northwest of the Forbidden City. Visit some major sites, such as the White Dagoba, Nine Dragon Screen, and Tuancheng. Plus, if you’re here between April and November, see various old temples and small gardens, as well as the famous Five Dragon Pavilion, by boat. At lunchtime, savor a delicious meal of imperial-style cuisine at the Beihai Fangshan Restaurant, a famous establishment open since 1925.

3
Stop 3

In the afternoon, walk into the hutongs around Houhai area, one of the two most popular pub streets in Beijing. Admire the traditional buildings lined along the beautiful lake. In the Ming and Qing dynasties, many high ranking officials and even princes used to live here.

4
Stop 4

Continue to walk to Yandaixie Street, one of the oldest streets in Beijing which is named after a store selling giant smoking pipes in the Qing dyansty. Today it is a popular palce with locals and tourists full of shops, cafés, restaurants, local snacks and bars, in reconstructed Ming and Qing dynasty era buildings.

5
Stop 5

Finally, visit the Bell and Drum Towers and head inside to watch a traditional drum-beating ceremony in the Drum Tower. You will aslo go up the Bell Tower to have a panoramic view of the old Beijing neighbour, and where the old and modern combines.

Available languages

Guide guide
EN

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0
3 reviews
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3
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1★
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Tripadvisor 5.0
3 reviews
5★
3
4★
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Important information

Suitable for all physical fitness levels
This tour involves quite some walking in the old part of Beijing, please wear comfortable shoes
Imperial Lunch/Dinner are set menu, please advise any special dietary requirements beforehand
Depending on your departure time, guide would adjust sequence of itinerary to suit for lunch/dinner

Important notes

Guide will contact you by calling your room or leave a message the night prior to the tour, to confirm the departure time

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

Adults
Age 0-99
1
Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 15
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation

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