How to Plan Your Beijing Private Layover Tour of Forbidden City Houhai Hutong and Local Delicacy

Beijing is an exciting city, full of fascinating culture, history and amazing food. If you have a layover in the city, there’s no reason why you can’t explore it on a private tour. A private layover tour with Viator is your best bet to make the most out of your time in Beijing. Here’s our guide on how to plan the perfect Beijing Private Layover Tour of Forbidden City Houhai Hutong and Local Delicacy.

Overview

The tour starts at 8:30 AM, and you can directly head to the meeting point. The tour includes visits to some of the most iconic attractions in Beijing like Forbidden City, Houhai Lake, local hutongs, and more. You’ll have the undivided attention of your guide as you explore these beautiful places at your own pace.

What’s Included

• Transportation to and from meeting point to tour sites
• Professional tour guide
• Zhajiangmian for lunch- a local delicacy

Meeting and Pickup

You can either head directly to the meeting point or request pickup from the airport or nearby hotels.

Meeting point

We pick up from Beijing Capital International Airport or nearby hotels.

Pickup points

If you prefer a pickup service, you can select one of the pickup points available. Please make sure to communicate your preference when booking your tour.

Start time

The tour starts at 8:30 AM.

End point

This activity ends back at the meeting point.

Pickup details

If you prefer pickup service, the meeting point can be the Beijing Capital International Airport, or any nearby hotel. Please make sure to communicate your preference when booking your tour.

What To Expect

This is a private tour, so you can expect undivided attention from your guide as you explore the beautiful city of Beijing. Your guide will provide insight into the history and culture of the city, as well as the best places to eat and shop. You can expect to visit some of the most iconic sites in Beijing, including The Forbidden City, which is sometimes known as the Palace Museum; Houhai lake, which is known for its nightlife, bars, and cafes.

Additional Info

• Confirmation will be received at the time of booking.
• Wheelchair accessible.
• Stroller accessible.
• Infant seats available.
• Most travelers can participate.
• This is a private tour/activity. Only your group will participate.

Cancellation Policy

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund. For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the experience’s start time. If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time, the amount paid is non-refundable.

If You’re Hungry on the Tour

The tour includes Zhajiangmian, a local delicacy, for lunch. Zhajiangmian is a traditional Beijing noodle dish. It comes with soybean paste that’s mixed with vegetables and minced pork. It’s a hearty meal that will provide you with the energy you need to continue your tour. If you need a snack or drink on the tour, your guide can recommend places to grab some refreshment.

Book the Tour Here

If you are interested in experiencing the best of Beijing in just 8 hours, book your tour today via the following link:

Book the Beijing Private Layover Tour of Forbidden City Houhai Hutong and Local Delicacy now.

Be sure to communicate your preferences and any special requests before the tour starts. Plan ahead for a hassle-free experience in Beijing.

The Most Frequently Asked Questions About Beijing

Beijing is the capital city of China and one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. With its rich culture, history, and architecture, there are several things to discover and explore in this city. In this blog post, we will address some of the most common questions about Beijing to help you plan your trip better.

1. When is the best time to visit Beijing?

The best time to visit Beijing is from September to November when the weather is mild, and the crowds are thin. Spring (March-May) is another pleasant time to visit, but it can be quite crowded due to the blooming of flowers. Summers (June-August) are hot and rainy, while winters (December-February) are chilly and dry.

2. What are the top tourist attractions in Beijing?

Beijing has several tourist attractions, including:

The Great Wall of China

One of the seven wonders of the world, the Great Wall of China attracts millions of visitors every year. The wall stretches over 13,000 miles and is an architectural masterpiece.

The Forbidden City

The Forbidden City was once the home of the Chinese emperors and is now a museum that houses over 1 million ancient artifacts, including porcelain, ceramics, and jade sculptures.

The Temple of Heaven

Built-in the early 15th century, the Temple of Heaven is a place of worship for the emperors of the Ming and Qing dynasties. The temple’s architecture and design are a marvel to behold.

The Summer Palace

The Summer Palace is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a beautiful garden that covers over 700 acres. It features several pavilions, lakes, and bridges that offer stunning views.

3. What are the transportation options in Beijing?

Beijing has an extensive public transportation system that includes buses, subways, and taxis. The subway system is the most convenient and fastest way to get around the city. Taxis are also readily available, but they can be costly during rush hour. It’s also possible to rent bicycles, but be prepared for heavy traffic and pollution.

4. What is the currency used in Beijing?

The official currency of China is the Chinese Yuan Renminbi (CNY). You can exchange foreign currencies at banks, hotels, and airports. ATMs are widely available throughout the city.

5. What is the language spoken in Beijing?

The official language of China is Mandarin Chinese. However, due to Beijing’s popularity as a tourist destination, you’ll find many locals who can speak English, especially those in the hospitality industry.

6. What are the must-try foods and drinks in Beijing?

Beijing is known for its diverse and flavorful cuisine. Some of the must-try dishes include:

Peking Duck

Peking Duck is one of Beijing’s signature dishes. It consists of roasted duck served with thin pancakes, scallions, and a sweet plum sauce.

Jiaozi

Jiaozi, also known as Chinese dumplings, is a popular street food in Beijing. It’s made of minced meat or vegetables wrapped in a thin dough and steamed or pan-fried.

Beijing Noodles

Beijing noodles are a staple food in Beijing. They are made of wheat flour and served with a variety of meats, vegetables, and sauces.

As for drinks, make sure to try the local tea and Baijiu (a Chinese liquor made of grain). Moreover, bubble tea is a recent addition to Beijing’s drink scene and quite popular among locals and tourists alike. You can also try some of the city’s craft beers.

7. What are the etiquette and customs to be aware of when visiting Beijing?

When visiting Beijing, it’s essential to be aware of the local customs and etiquette. Some things to keep in mind include:

Respect for Elders

In Chinese culture, respect for elders is crucial. Make sure to address older people with the proper titles and show them respect.

Public Behavior

Public behavior is important in Beijing. Avoid spitting, littering, and raising your voice in public places.

Tipping Culture

Tipping is not a common practice in China. However, if you want to leave a tip, make sure to do it discreetly.

Gift Giving

Gift-giving is a common practice in China, and it’s a way to show respect and appreciation. If you want to give a gift, make sure it’s wrapped beautifully, and don’t expect anything in return.

In conclusion, Beijing is a fascinating city with an abundance of history, culture, and attractions to explore. Hopefully, this blog post has answered some of the most common questions you might have before planning your trip to Beijing.