Private Tour: Mutianyu Great Wall and Forbidden City

Beijing , China

Private Tour: Mutianyu Great Wall and Forbidden City

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About this experience

Escape the crowds and enjoy a fully private tour of the breathtaking Mutianyu Great Wall. Your guide will lead you to quieter sections, perfect for serene walks and stunning photos. Tailor your experience by pairing Mutianyu with a second destination of your choice, such as the Summer Palace, Temple of Heaven, or a local village for a cultural touch.

Travel in comfort with private transportation, including hotel pick-up and drop-off. Enhance your visit with optional activities like a cable car ride, an exciting toboggan descent, or a hike for panoramic views. Your expert guide will share captivating stories about the Wall’s history and significance, bringing its ancient stones to life.

Complete the day with a meal of local delicacies or shop for unique souvenirs. This personalized tour ensures an unforgettable and intimate connection to one of China’s greatest wonders.

Book now and make the Great Wall your own!

Available options

Private Tour: Mutianyu Great Wall and Forbidden City

Pickup included

What's included

Entry fees on itinerary included

Private transportation

Bottled water

Parking Fees

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Stand in awe of the immense scale of Tiananmen Square, one of the world’s largest public squares. Surrounded by iconic landmarks, it’s a place where history and modernity converge. (Option 1)

Marvel at the Monument to the People's Heroes, a towering obelisk commemorating China’s revolutionary martyrs.
Admire the imposing facade of the Great Hall of the People, China’s national parliament building.
Capture photos of the Mausoleum of Mao Zedong, where the founder of modern China rests.

Stop 2

Embark on an immersive journey into the heart of imperial China.
Cultural Highlights:

Admire the stunning dragon thrones and richly decorated ceilings in the main halls.
See priceless artifacts at the Palace Museum, showcasing China's artistic and cultural heritage.
Learn about the symbolism behind the Forbidden City’s design, reflecting cosmic order and imperial power.
Photo Opportunities:
Capture breathtaking views from elevated platforms, like the Gate of Heavenly Purity, and create memories to last a lifetime in this stunning historical setting. (Option 1)

Stop 3

Discover the breathtaking beauty of the Summer Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a masterpiece of Chinese landscape design.
Wander through the vast gardens, majestic pavilions, and serene lakes that served as the summer retreat for Chinese emperors.
Immerse yourself in the peaceful ambiance of the Garden of Virtue and Harmony or the Suzhou Market Street, where you can explore recreated traditional shops.
Hear fascinating tales from a guide about the palace's history, its significance during the Qing Dynasty, and the life of Empress Dowager Cixi, who made this her personal haven.
Photo Opportunities:
Capture the perfect shots of ornate pavilions, stone bridges, and serene water scenes that define the Summer Palace’s charm. (Option 2)

Stop 4

Immerse in Sacred Atmosphere:
Walk through grand gates adorned with traditional Chinese architecture and intricate carvings as the scent of incense fills the air, creating a calming ambiance. (Option 3)

Stop 5

Step into history and marvel at the awe-inspiring Mutianyu Great Wall, one of the best-preserved and most scenic sections of China’s iconic landmark.
Explore History Up Close:
Walk along the ancient watchtowers and battlements, imagining the soldiers who once stood guard here to protect China’s northern frontier. Key highlights include:

The Zhengguan Terrace (Tower 1): A unique structure combining three watchtowers.
Panoramic Vistas: Climb to higher points for spectacular views that stretch for miles.
Guest can choose one of the adventure (self-pay)
Cable Car Ride: Glide over the forest for a relaxing journey to the wall.
Chairlift & Toboggan: Take the scenic chairlift up and enjoy an exhilarating toboggan ride down—fun for all ages!
Hiking: Trek at your own pace along the ancient stone path, exploring restored sections and marveling at its timeless beauty.

What's not included

Lunch at a local restaurant to enjoy authentic Beijing cuisine (self-paid), it will be around 20 dollars/150RMB per person

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

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

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

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