Private Tour: Mutianyu Great Wall & Hutong Culinary Adventure
Active
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
Embark on an unforgettable full-day private tour to uncover Beijing's architectural marvels and cultural treasures. Guided by a seasoned expert, you'll traverse the renowned 600-year-old Ming Dynasty Great Wall at Mutianyu, beholding the awe-inspiring grandeur of ancient Chinese architecture. Marvel at iconic landmarks like the Bird's Nest and Water Cube, soaking in their architectural splendor. Explore the historic Beijing old town around Drum Tower, immersing yourself in its rich heritage, followed by a delectable foodie tour to satiate your palate with scrumptious delights. Travel in utmost comfort and style with private, air-conditioned transportation, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable journey throughout.
Available options
Private Tour: Mutianyu Great Wall & Hutong Culinary Adventure
Pickup included
What's included
Private transportation
Enjoy a very yummy foodie tour(Beijing Zhajiangmian Noodle+Jianbingguozi+Chinese dumpling)
Visit of Bird's Nest and Water Cube(pass by)
Entrance fee of Mutianyu Great Wall
Professional English-speaking Tour guide
Visit of Beijing old town around Drum Tower
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
At 8:00 am, meet your guide in your hotel lobby to start your day tour. Drive to the famous Mutianyu Great Wall, the best-preserved section of the Great Wall and less crowded than other sections. With your expert guide, embark on a moderate hike along the wall, stretching 2,300 feet (700 meters) with inclines reaching up to 460 feet (140 meters). You can choose to walk up to the top or take a cable car at your own expense.
Enjoy picturesque views of the wall snaking through the mountains and learn about the tactical significance of watchtowers and fortification segments from your guide. The hike will take approximately two hours, depending on your pace.
2
On the way back to Beijing, pass by the Bird's Nest and the Water Cube, two iconic and celebrated architectural wonders in Beijing, China.
The Bird's Nest, officially known as the National Stadium, is a colossal and innovative sports arena that took center stage during the 2008 Beijing Olympics. Its intricate steel lattice design, resembling a giant bird's nest, has earned it the nickname "Bird's Nest." This remarkable stadium has become an enduring symbol of China's modernity and its ability to host grand international events. Visitors can admire its unique architecture from the outside and occasionally attend events inside, enjoying a glimpse of China's sporting excellence.
The Water Cube, officially called the National Aquatics Center, is an architectural gem renowned for its striking blue exterior, reminiscent of a cube of bubbles. It hosted swimming and diving competitions during the 2008 Olympics.
3
Stop 3
Come to the Drum Tower area, the old town of Beijing, and explore the hidden gems of the city by venturing into the quaint alleys of a 'hutong' (traditional-style neighborhood) with a knowledgeable private guide. Immerse yourself in an authentic experience, sampling local Chinese snacks and delving into the vibrant culture of historic Beijing. Indulge in iconic dishes such as Beijing ZHAJIANGMIAN noodles, Chinese dumplings, and Jianbingguozi (fried pancake), while meeting locals and gaining insights into Chinese culinary traditions from your guide. This culinary adventure promises plentiful tastings, making it a delightful journey for food enthusiasts!
What's not included
Gratuities
Cable car ticket at Mutianyu Great Wall
Available languages
Guide guide
CMN
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
10 reviews
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Important information
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
This tour can be customized,if you wish to visit other sightseeing places to replace the included parts in the itinerary, maybe you have already visited them before,please confirm with us after you book this tour, some scenic spots can be replaced without paying the extra expense.
During the peak travel season(May 1 -7) and (October 1-7), Mutianyu Great Wall may be swapped to other parts of Great Wall, because Mutianyu Great Wall will be super crowded during the festivals.
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
