THE JOURNEY
Overview
Go beyond Beijing’s famous landmarks and discover the culture, neighborhoods, and everyday life behind China’s historic capital.
This private 4-day journey combines the Forbidden City, Mutianyu Great Wall, Temple of Heaven, and Summer Palace with Beijing’s traditional hutongs, courtyard neighborhoods, and local communities.
Designed for travelers who prefer a slower and more personal way to explore Beijing, the itinerary can also be customized around your interests, travel pace, and arrival or departure schedule.
WHY YOU'LL LOVE IT
Trip highlights
Walk through Beijing’s historic hutong neighborhoods
Experience traditional courtyard culture and local life
Explore Tiananmen Square and the Forbidden City
See the Forbidden City from Jingshan Park
Walk along the Mutianyu Great Wall
Discover the Temple of Heaven and its lively local park
Explore the gardens and lakes of the Summer Palace
Experience both imperial Beijing and everyday Beijing
Private transportation throughout the journey
Professional English-speaking local guide
Flexible itinerary with no shopping stops
YOUR ITINERARY
Day by day
A thoughtfully paced journey with room to explore, relax and experience each place properly.
Drum & Bell Towers → Traditional Hutongs → Courtyard Neighborhood → Houhai
Begin your journey by discovering Beijing’s old city.
Explore the historic Drum and Bell Tower area before walking through traditional hutong lanes and courtyard neighborhoods. Learn about the history of Beijing’s old residential communities and experience the atmosphere of everyday life.
Continue to Houhai, one of Beijing’s most atmospheric historic neighborhoods.
Tiananmen Square → Forbidden City → Jingshan Park → Temple of Heaven
Start at Tiananmen Square before entering the Forbidden City and exploring the former imperial palace.
Continue to Jingshan Park for panoramic views over the palace complex before visiting the Temple of Heaven.
Spend some time in the surrounding park, where you may see Beijing residents exercising, playing traditional games, dancing, or practicing tai chi.
Mutianyu Great Wall → Beijing Countryside
Travel outside central Beijing to the Mutianyu section of the Great Wall.
Walk along the ancient Wall, explore its watchtowers, and enjoy spectacular mountain scenery.
After visiting the Great Wall, spend some time experiencing the quieter countryside surrounding Beijing before returning to the city.
Summer Palace → Local Neighborhood / Market → Departure
Visit the Summer Palace and explore its beautiful lakes, gardens, pavilions, and traditional architecture.
Depending on your departure time, continue to a local neighborhood or market for a final glimpse of everyday Beijing.
Your private driver will then transfer you to the airport or railway station.
WHAT'S INCLUDED
Included in your journey
PLEASE NOTE
Not included
BEFORE YOU GO
Good to know
Attraction opening hours and ticket policies may change. The Forbidden City normally requires advance reservation and is generally closed on Mondays.
The order of sightseeing may be adjusted according to ticket availability, weather, traffic, public holidays, and your arrival or departure schedule.
Passport information may be required in advance for attraction reservations.