How to Plan Your Beijing Private Cultural Tour with Ming Tombs, Houhai Lake and Walking in Hutong

Are you planning a trip to Beijing? Don’t forget to experience the city’s cultural heritage with a private tour to some of its most fascinating historical sites. During this tour, you’ll explore the Ming Tombs, Houhai Lake, and the old alleys of Beijing, or Hutongs, where you’ll learn more about the city’s history and immerse yourself in its unique culture.

Booking the tour is easy. All you have to do is head to the viator.com website and follow the simple instructions at https://www.viator.com/tours/Beijing/Beijing-Private-Cultural-Tour-with-Ming-Tombs-Houhai-Lake-and-Walking-in-Hutong/d321-181334P14?pid=P00070472&mcid=42383.

Overview

This tour takes you to some of Beijing’s most famous landmarks, including the Ming Tombs and Houhai Lake, as well as back alleys, known as Hutongs, where you can step back in time and experience the traditional way of life in old Beijing.

What’s Included

When planning your private tour, you’ll be able to enjoy a delicious lunch and private transportation to take you from one site to the next. All entrance fees and taxes are also included in the price, giving you the opportunity to relax and enjoy your tour without any additional expenses.

Meeting And Pickup

You can either head directly to the meeting point or request pickup. The meeting point is in Beijing China. We offer pickup from hotels within the first five rings around Beijing, making your access to the tour even easier.

What To Expect

During this tour of Beijing, you’ll get an up-close look at the ancient Ming Tombs. These impressive emperors’ tombs date back to the Ming Dynasty in the early 15th century and have been carefully preserved over the years.

Next, you’ll be able to experience the beauty of Houhai Lake, which is located just north of the Forbidden City. This popular recreational area is filled with restaurants, cafes and bars, a great place for a photo op, and a relaxing spot to enjoy the scenery.

Finally, the tour includes a walking tour of Beijing’s famous Hutongs. These small back alleys have been around for more than 700 years and reflect traditional life in the city. You’ll enjoy getting lost in the maze of ancient courtyards, small shops, and local homes.

Additional Info

The tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, so everyone can participate. The tour also includes infant seats for those with infants. If you’re a traveler who likes a more exclusive experience, you’ll be happy to know that this is a private tour/activity. Only your group will participate.

Cancellation Policy

We know that plans can change, which is why we have a generous cancellation policy. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund. If you cancel less than 24 hours before the start time, the amount paid will not be refunded. Any changes made less than 24 hours before the start time will not be allowed.

Conclusion

Beijing is a fascinating city, and the private cultural tour with Ming Tombs, Houhai Lake, and Walking in Hutong provides an excellent opportunity to explore its unique culture and history. The tour takes you to famous landmarks and provides a glimpse of traditional life in the city’s back alleys. With convenient pickup and drop-off from most Beijing hotels, this tour is an excellent way to experience the best of Beijing with ease. To book the tour, click here.

The Most Frequently Asked Questions About Beijing

Beijing, the capital city of China, is a fascinating destination that attracts millions of visitors every year. However, planning a trip to Beijing can be intimidating, especially if you’re a first-time visitor. In this blog post, we’ll answer some of the most frequently asked questions about Beijing to help you plan a smooth and enjoyable trip.

1. When is the best time to visit Beijing?

Beijing experiences distinct seasons, with hot and humid summers, cold and dry winters, and mild spring and fall seasons. The best time to visit Beijing is during the spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) seasons when the weather is pleasant, and the skies are clear. However, these seasons are also peak tourist seasons, so expect large crowds and higher hotel rates.

2. How long should I spend in Beijing?

To explore the main attractions of Beijing and get a feel for the city’s culture, it’s best to spend at least three to five days. During this time, you can visit iconic landmarks such as the Great Wall, Forbidden City, and Summer Palace, and immerse yourself in Beijing’s unique culture and traditions.

3. Do I need a visa to visit Beijing?

Yes, most visitors to Beijing need a visa to enter China. You can obtain a visa from your nearest Chinese embassy or consulate, and the application process usually takes 4-5 business days. However, some countries have agreements with China that allow their citizens to visit for a limited period without a visa. Check the Chinese embassy website for more information.

4. What is the local currency in Beijing?

The local currency in Beijing, and all of China, is the Chinese Yuan (CNY). You can exchange your foreign currency for CNY at banks and foreign exchange bureaus, or withdraw cash from ATMs using your international debit or credit card. Some major establishments in Beijing also accept major international credit cards.

5. Is English widely spoken in Beijing?

English is not widely spoken in Beijing, especially among the older generation. However, most hotels, restaurants, and major tourist attractions have English-speaking staff and signage. It’s a good idea to carry a phrasebook or a translation app on your phone to communicate with locals who don’t speak English.

6. How do I get around Beijing?

Beijing has an extensive public transportation system that includes buses, subways, and taxis. The subway system is the most convenient and affordable way to get around the city and connects major attractions and neighborhoods. Taxis are also readily available, but make sure to carry the name of your destination in Chinese characters, as most taxi drivers don’t speak English.

7. What should I eat in Beijing?

Beijing is known for its delicious cuisine, which includes iconic dishes such as Peking duck, dumplings, and hot pot. You can find these dishes and more at local restaurants and street vendors throughout the city. It’s also a good idea to try out some of the local snacks, such as Beijing yogurt, fried dough twists, and jianbing (a Chinese crepe).

8. What should I wear in Beijing?

Beijing experiences hot summers and cold winters, so it’s important to pack accordingly. During the summer, wear light and breathable clothing, such as cotton shirts and shorts. In the winter, bring warm and layered clothing, such as sweaters, jackets, and scarves. Comfortable shoes are a must, especially if you plan to do a lot of walking or hiking.

9. How do I access social media in Beijing?

China has strict internet censorship laws, which means that some popular social media platforms, such as Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram, are blocked in the country. To access these platforms, you can use a virtual private network (VPN), which encrypts your internet connection and lets you bypass the Chinese firewall. However, VPNs are not legal in China, so use them at your own risk.

10. What are some cultural etiquette tips for visiting Beijing?

When visiting Beijing, it’s important to respect local customs and etiquette. Some tips to keep in mind include:

• Remove your shoes when entering someone’s home or a temple
• Bow slightly when greeting someone, especially elders
• Avoid pointing with your finger or feet
• Don’t touch someone’s head or pass objects over their head
• Use both hands to give or receive objects, especially business cards
• Avoid discussing sensitive topics such as politics or religion

Conclusion

Beijing is a vibrant and exciting city that offers a unique cultural experience. By answering these frequently asked questions, we hope to have given you a better understanding of what to expect when traveling to Beijing. From the best time to visit to cultural etiquette tips, we’ve covered everything you need to know to plan a smooth and enjoyable trip to Beijing.