Private Exploration to Old Hutongs & Modern Sanlitun
Active
9h - 10h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Manual confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
1-day private public transportation trip takes you to discover the essence of the Beijing including Hutongs, Beihai Park sanlitun. Experience the public transportation in Beijing and witness local's life in one day. If you need a private car, feel free to contact our travel consultants to arrange it for you.
Available options
Private Exploration to Old Hutongs & Modern Sanlitun
Pickup included
What's included
Public transport
Entrance fees to tourist sites
Private English-speaking guide
Detailed itinerary
1
One day before this tour, your private guide will contact you to double confirm the time to meet you and the address of your hotel, so as to offer you the guided sightseeing service timely. After picking you up, the guide will decide how to get there, taking in the account of your hotel location and the real-time traffic conditions. Nevertheless, subway train is always preferred if there is any subway station close to your hotel.
We advise you not to book breakfast with your hotel today, because the first stop, Huguosi Street is one of the most popular snack streets in Beijing City, where you will have more choices than ever.Telling the guide your taste and he or she will be glad to give you some recommendations.
2
Mei Lanfang (1894－1961) is one of the most famous Peking opera masters in China. Right on the east end of the Huguosi Street, Mei Lanfang Memorial Museum is a classical and traditional style Beijing courtyard. You may seize the chance to know how traditional Beijing folk houses look like.
3
Coming out from the Mei Lanfang Memorial Museum, the guide will escort you to walk east along the Dingfu Street for about 600 meters (660 yards) to reach the entrance to the Prince Gong's Mansion, then offer you a guided tour inside.
The palace complex is quite grand and luxury, which fully reveals the noble life of the royal families in old times. In addition to Chinese style houses, pavilions and gardens, there is a western style gate inside, which is rarely seen in other traditional Chinese building complex.
4
Stop 4
Nanluoguxiang (South Gong and Drum Lane) is a group of crisscross hutongs. The guide will accompany you to have a short stroll there, then leave you some time to have lunch. You will find yourself a lot of choices. If you cannot decide which restaurant to choose, just ask for advice from the guide.
5
Stop 5
After having lunch in Nanluoguxiang, the guide will escort you to take city bus to the South Gate of the Beihai Park.
As one of the best preserved classic imperial gardens in Beijing, Beihai Park is a stunner with enchanting natural scenery and traditional Chinese architectures. It is said that the garden was built according to the wonderland described in an old Chinese legend. The Qionghua Islet is the center of the garden, and the White Dagoba on the islet will offer you a magnificent bird's eye view of the whole park.
6
After touring Beihai Park, the guide will lead you to get out from its North Gate, and then take city bus no.4 to Sanlitun, in need of 35-40 minutes on the way.
Sanlitun is one of the most popular and prosperous quarters in Beijing to spend the night. Due to its fashionable culture and entertainment, Sanlitun attracts a lot of people to relax themselves in pubs, bars, and night clubs.
Upon arrival, the guide will introduce the fun places to visit there, inform you how to get back to your hotel and draw an end to today’s guided service. Hope you will enjoy a wonderful night in Sanlitun.
What's not included
Hotels & meals
Cruise in Behai Park
Personal expenses
Gratuities for guide
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Mei Lanfang Memorial Museum is closed on Mondays
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
