How to Plan Your Beijing Classic Tour of Mutianyu Great Wall and Ming Tombs Plus Olympic Park

Are you planning a trip to Beijing and looking for the best tour to explore the city’s top attractions? Look no further than the Beijing Classic Tour of Mutianyu Great Wall and Ming Tombs plus Olympic Park. This private tour will take you on an unforgettable journey through some of China’s most iconic landmarks. Here’s everything you need to know to plan your perfect tour.

Overview

This private tour will take you on a full-day journey to three of the most visited attractions in Beijing – the Mutianyu Great Wall, Ming Tombs, and Olympic Park. After being picked up from your Beijing hotel in the morning, you’ll head to the UNESCO-listed Ming Tombs to explore the underground tombs of past Chinese emperors. Then, you’ll enjoy a traditional Chinese lunch before continuing on to the Mutianyu Great Wall, where you’ll have plenty of time to explore the iconic Wonder of the World. Finally, you’ll visit the Olympic Park to see the famous Bird’s Nest and Water Cube Stadium.

What’s Included

When you book this tour, you’ll get the following services and amenities:

• Air-conditioned transportation
• A local speaking English guide
• Lunch at a local restaurant
• Entrance tickets for children
• Hotel pickup and drop-off

Please note that the tour does not include food or drinks unless specified or gratuities.

Key information

Here are some key pieces of information about the Beijing Classic Tour of Mutianyu Great Wall and Ming Tombs plus Olympic Park:

• The tour begins at 8:00 am and lasts approximately 8 hours
• The tour is available in English and Chinese
• Hotel pickup and drop-off are included for most hotels within the 4th ring road of Beijing
• The price of the tour is inclusive of all taxes and fees

What to Expect

The Beijing Classic Tour of Mutianyu Great Wall and Ming Tombs plus Olympic Park offers a comprehensive exploration of Beijing’s cultural heritage and modern development. Here is what you can expect on this tour:

Ming Tombs

The first stop on the tour is the Ming Tombs, a UNESCO World Heritage site located about 50 km northwest of Beijing. Here, you’ll explore the underground tombs of 13 emperors from the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644). The underground palace of Dingling is the only tomb that has been excavated so far and is open to the public. The other tombs are still unexcavated and remain an exquisite mystery.

Local Chinese Lunch

After visiting the Ming Tombs, you’ll stop for lunch at a local restaurant to enjoy authentic Chinese cuisine. The restaurant offers a variety of dishes celebrating the rich and diverse culinary traditions of China.

Mutianyu Great Wall

The highlight of the tour is the Mutianyu Great Wall, a little-visited section of the wall that offers stunning views without the crowds found at other parts. You’ll have plenty of time to explore the wall at your own pace and admire the breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.

Olympic Park

The final stop on the tour takes you to the Olympic Park, where you can see the Bird’s Nest and Water Cube Stadium, the iconic structures built for the 2008 Summer Olympics. You’ll also have a chance to explore the park and take some pictures to remember your trip.

Booking the Tour

To book your Beijing Classic Tour of Mutianyu Great Wall and Ming Tombs plus Olympic Park, visit the tour page on Viator.com using this link. From there, you can select your desired date and add the tour to your shopping cart. You can also read reviews from other travelers and see additional information about the tour on this page.

Book Your Tour Now

Overall, the Beijing Classic Tour of Mutianyu Great Wall and Ming Tombs plus Olympic Park is an excellent choice for travelers who want to experience the best of Beijing’s cultural heritage and modern development. With a knowledgeable guide, comfortable transportation, and all the key attractions included, this private tour is a memorable way to explore the city’s world-famous landmarks.

Frequently Asked Questions About Beijing

1. What is the population of Beijing?

The estimated population of Beijing as of 2021 is around 21 million people. It is the second most populous city in China after Shanghai.

2. What is the climate in Beijing like?

Beijing has a humid subtropical climate, characterized by hot, humid summers and cold, dry winters. The average temperature in January is -4°C (25°F), while the average temperature in July is 26°C (79°F).

3. What is the best time to visit Beijing?

The best time to visit Beijing is during the spring (March to May) or autumn (September to November) months when the weather is milder and the skies are clearer. The summer months can be very hot and humid, and there is often heavy pollution in the air. Winter in Beijing can be bitterly cold, but it is a great time for winter sports and seeing the city covered in snow.

4. What are some must-see attractions in Beijing?

There are many famous attractions in Beijing that you should not miss, such as:

• The Great Wall of China
• The Forbidden City
• The Summer Palace
• The Temple of Heaven
• Tiananmen Square
• The National Museum of China

5. Is it safe to travel to Beijing?

Beijing is generally a safe city for travelers. However, like any big city, it is important to take precautions to avoid becoming a victim of crime. Tourists should be wary of scams and pickpockets, especially in crowded tourist areas. It is also recommended to avoid drinking tap water and to use bottled water instead.

6. What is the currency used in Beijing?

The currency used in Beijing is the Chinese Yuan (CNY). It is also known as Renminbi (RMB). Many hotels, restaurants, and tourist attractions in Beijing accept major credit cards, but it is always a good idea to have some cash on hand.

7. What is the transportation system like in Beijing?

Beijing has an extensive public transportation system that includes buses, trains, and subway lines. The subway system is particularly convenient and easy to use, with signs and announcements in both Mandarin and English. Taxis are also widely available, but visitors should be prepared for heavy traffic during rush hour.

8. What are some local foods to try in Beijing?

Beijing is famous for its flavorful cuisine, including dishes such as:

• Peking duck
• Mongolian hotpot
• Lamb kebabs
• Steamed dumplings (jiaozi)
• Spicy tofu (mapo tofu)

9. What are some popular shopping areas in Beijing?

Beijing has many shopping areas where you can find everything from luxury items to souvenirs. Some of the most popular areas include:

• Wangfujing Street
• Xidan Commercial Street
• Qianmen Street
• Silk Street Market
• Panjiayuan Antique Market

10. What is the etiquette for visiting Beijing?

While visiting Beijing, there are a few cultural customs and etiquette rules to be aware of. These include:

• Dress modestly, particularly when visiting temples and other religious sites
• Remove your shoes before entering someone’s home
• Do not point with your finger; instead, use an open hand or your chin
• Respect personal space, as physical contact is not common in Chinese culture

11. What should I know about Chinese holidays and festivals?

China has many holidays and festivals throughout the year, which can impact travel plans. Some of the most important holidays include:

• Chinese New Year (in January or February)
• Tomb Sweeping Day (in April)
• Dragon Boat Festival (in June)
• Mid-Autumn Festival (in September)
• National Day (October 1st to 7th)

During these holidays, travel may be more difficult due to increased crowds and transportation disruptions. However, they are also great opportunities to experience Chinese culture and traditions.

12. What are some cultural experiences to have in Beijing?

Beijing is full of cultural experiences that visitors can enjoy, such as:

• Learning calligraphy or painting
• Attending an acrobatics show
• Exploring the traditional hutong neighborhoods
• Trying tai chi in a local park
• Visiting a tea house for a traditional tea ceremony

13. How can I stay safe during my visit to Beijing?

To stay safe during your visit to Beijing, follow these tips:

• Be aware of your belongings at all times and keep them close to you
• Avoid traveling alone at night, especially in unfamiliar areas
• Stay aware of your surroundings and any potential dangers
• Research common scams ahead of time to avoid falling prey to them

14. What is the language spoken in Beijing?

The official language of Beijing is Mandarin Chinese. Many people in Beijing also speak English, particularly in tourist areas. However, it is always a good idea to learn some basic Mandarin phrases before traveling to Beijing.

15. What are some day trip options from Beijing?

There are many day trip options from Beijing that are worth exploring, such as:

• The Great Wall at Bādálǐng or Jīnshānlǐng
• The Ming Tombs
• The Summer Palace and Old Summer Palace ruins
• The Forbidden City and surrounding hutongs
• The Chengde Mountain Resort and its temples

Book Your Tour Now

Beijing is a fascinating city that offers visitors a unique blend of history, culture, and modernity. From exploring ancient landmarks like the Forbidden City and the Great Wall to indulging in local cuisine and taking in cultural experiences, there is something for everyone in Beijing. By following these frequently asked questions, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable visit to one of China’s most iconic cities.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Beijing

Beijing, the capital city of China, is home to some of the most popular tourist attractions in the world. From the world-famous Great Wall of China to the beautiful Forbidden City, there are many historic and cultural sites to explore. However, with so many things to do and see, planning a trip to Beijing can be overwhelming. In this guide, we will help you navigate the city and make the most of your time as a tourist in Beijing.

1. Visit the Great Wall of China

One of the main reasons people come to Beijing is to visit the Great Wall of China. This iconic landmark is located just outside the city and is more than 13,000 miles long. There are several different sections of the Great Wall to explore, so plan your visit accordingly.

How to Get There

The easiest way to get to the Great Wall is by taking a bus or hiring a taxi. The journey should take around one to two hours depending on which section you visit. The most popular sections of the Great Wall are Badaling and Mutianyu, which are both easily accessible from Beijing.

What to See

There are several different things to see when you visit the Great Wall. Some of the main highlights include:

• The Great Wall itself, of course
• The stunning views of the surrounding countryside
• The watchtowers and other defensive structures
• The winding paths and steep steps that lead to the top

2. Explore the Forbidden City

The Forbidden City is another popular attraction in Beijing. This ancient palace complex was once home to the emperors of China and is now open to the public as a museum.

How to Get There

The Forbidden City is located in the heart of Beijing and is easily accessible by public transport. You can take the subway or a bus to get there.

What to See

There are several different buildings and areas to explore when you visit the Forbidden City. Some of the main highlights include:

• The main halls and courtyards
• The imperial gardens
• The palace treasures and artifacts
• The architecture and design of the palace buildings

3. Take a Stroll through the Summer Palace

The Summer Palace is a beautiful park and palace complex that was once used by the royal family as a summer retreat. It is now open to the public and is a popular destination for tourists.

How to Get There

The Summer Palace is located in the northwestern part of Beijing and can be reached by bus or subway.

What to See

There are several different attractions within the Summer Palace to explore. Some of the main highlights include:

• The beautiful gardens and pavilions
• The Long Corridor, which is the longest covered walkway in the world
• The Kunming Lake, which is surrounded by scenic hills and islands
• The Tower of Buddhist Incense, which offers panoramic views of the entire palace complex

4. Visit Tiananmen Square

Tiananmen Square is one of the largest public squares in the world and is the site of several important historic events in China’s recent history.

How to Get There

Tiananmen Square is located in the heart of Beijing and can be reached by subway or bus.

What to See

Some of the main attractions within Tiananmen Square include:

• The Monument to the People’s Heroes, which is a tribute to the Chinese people who died in various wars
• The Great Hall of the People, which is the meeting place of the National People’s Congress
• The Mao Zedong Memorial Hall, which houses the embalmed body of the former Chinese leader

5. Explore the Hutongs

The Hutongs are a series of narrow alleyways and traditional courtyard houses that offer a glimpse into Beijing’s past. Many of these areas have been preserved and can be explored on foot or by bike.

How to Get There

The Hutongs can be found in various places throughout Beijing. Some of the most popular areas include Houhai, Nanluoguxiang, and Shichahai.

What to See

When you explore the Hutongs, you’ll get to see traditional courtyard houses, local shops, and small restaurants. Some of the main highlights include:

• The ancient architecture and design of the courtyard houses
• The local shops and artisans, who sell everything from souvenirs to handmade crafts
• The small restaurants and cafes, which offer a taste of local cuisine and culture

Book Your Tour Now

Beijing is a city that is rich in history and culture. From the Great Wall of China to the Forbidden City, there are many iconic attractions to explore. By following this guide and planning your trip carefully, you can make the most of your time in Beijing and create memories that will last a lifetime.