Busda:Half-day Small Group Tours: Forbidden City Walking Tours
Active
3h - 10h
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
Explore the heart of imperial China on this 3-Hour Beijing Half-Day Walking Tour to the Forbidden City. Designed for culture lovers and history enthusiasts, this immersive experience takes you deep into one of the world’s most iconic landmarks. As part of a small group tour, you'll enjoy a more personalized and engaging journey through the ancient halls, grand courtyards, and golden rooftops of the Forbidden City — once home to 24 emperors across the Ming and Qing dynasties.
This half-day tour is perfect for travelers short on time but eager to dive into Beijing’s rich past. Led by a knowledgeable English-speaking guide, this sightseeing tour reveals stories of royal intrigue, architectural brilliance, and ceremonial grandeur. As a curated city tour, it includes skip-the-line entry ticket, making your visit smooth and efficient.
add Additional Visit to mutianyu(if option selected)，Discover the historical grandeur of Beijing with visits to two must-see attractions
Available options
Forbidden City Entry Tickets
NOTE: This option includes entry tickets only (no guide or pickup) at the Meridian Gate entrance.
Entry Time: 8:30 AM - 12:00 PM.<br/>Customers from: Mainland China, Hong Kong, Macau，Taiwan must book 7 days in advance.<br/>Starting point:<br/>Meridian Gate, 4 Jing Shan Qian Jie, Dong Cheng Qu, China, 100009
Forbidden City Group Tour
This option is: Mini group tour (max 30 people), Departing at 8:00 from Exit C, Jinyuhutong Station (Subway Line 8). Includes 3.5-hour Forbi<br/>Note: Mainland China, Hong Kong, Macau，Taiwan guest must book 7 days in advance<br/>Starting point:<br/>Jinyu Hu Tong, Jin Yu Hu Tong, Dong Cheng Qu, Bei Jing Shi, China, 100006
ForbiddenCity&GreatWall Group
Small group tour: Departs at 8:00 from Exit C, Jinyuhutong Station. Includes English guide, entry ticket, and round-trip transport.<br/>Note: Mainland China, Hong Kong, Macau, Taiwan customers must book 7 days in advance.<br/>Starting point:<br/>Jinyu Hu Tong, Jin Yu Hu Tong, Dong Cheng Qu, Bei Jing Shi, China, 100006<br/>Pickup included
ForbiddenCity&GreatWall privat
private tour to: two of Beijing’s iconic landmarks., Includes private Transportation,English guide, entry ticket .Cable car not included.<br/>Note: Mainland China, Hong Kong, Macau, Taiwan customers must book 7 days in advance.<br/>Starting point:<br/>Beijing, China<br/>Pickup included
T-Square&ForbiddenCity private
private tour:: Includes guide, entry ticket , Downtown hotel pickup on foot is included, transportation fee to site is at your own cost<br/>Note: Mainland China, Hong Kong, Macau, Taiwan customers must book 7 days in advance<br/>Pickup included
T-Square&Forbidden City Group
This option is: mini group tour (max 30 people),Departing at 7:30 from Qianmen. Includes a 4-hour Tiananmen square & Forbidden City walking <br/>Note: Mainland China, Hong Kong, Macau, Taiwan customers must book 7 days in advance
Tiananmen Square Reservation
Special Note: : This option only provides Tiananmen square reservations and does not include tour or tour guide services. Self-guided visit.<br/>Meeting Point: : No meeting point, customers can get in by scan their passports.
What's included
This product includes multiple options. Please check each option's details for specific inclusions.
All Admission-related options include entry tickets only, with no additional services.
All Tour-related options include full admission tickets and guided services.
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Step into China’s imperial past at the Forbidden City, the world’s largest and best-preserved ancient palace complex. Home to 24 emperors during the Ming and Qing dynasties, this UNESCO World Heritage site is a masterpiece of traditional Chinese architecture and cultural heritage. The complex features nearly 1,000 buildings, golden rooftops, red walls, and grand ceremonial halls arranged with perfect symmetry and feng shui principles. Highlights include the majestic Meridian Gate, the Hall of Supreme Harmony, and the tranquil imperial gardens. Every stone and corridor echoes centuries of imperial power, artistry, and tradition. As the heart of Beijing for over 500 years, the Forbidden City offers an unforgettable journey into the grandeur, rituals, and daily life of China's royal court. A must-visit for lovers of history, culture, and architectural beauty.
2
Stop 2
Spend 30 minutes exploring the world's largest city square and admiring the magnificent parliamentary buildings.
3
Additional Visit to mutianyu(if option selected)，Discover the historical grandeur of Beijing with visits to two must-see attractions
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
NOTE: Customers from Chinese Mainland, Hong Kong and Taiwan need to book 7 days in advance
Confirmation will be received at time of booking
To ensure the success of your ticket booking to the Forbidden City, All traveler “full name, nationality and passport number” is required. You MUST provide above info to us upon booking.
We can’t guarantee 100% success of ticket booking during the peak tourist season, the tour may cancelled and full refund.
Meeting point
Pick you up from your hotel within Beijing’s 4th Ring Road. For locations beyond this area, an additional fee may apply. Please provide your hotel details, including the hotel name and reservation name, when booking.
Important notes
Please provide the passport details individually; this is mandatory
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
