How to Plan Your Beijing Private Layover Tour to Temple of Heaven, Guozijian Hutong, and Local Food

Are you on a layover in Beijing and looking to make the most out of your time there? Stop scrolling through endless lists of attractions and book yourself a private layover tour to visit some of the most beautiful sights in Beijing!

One of the most popular tours is the Beijing Private Layover Tour to Temple of Heaven, Guozijian Hutong, and Local Food. So, let’s plan your tour step-by-step.

Step 1: Book Your Tour

The first thing you need to do is book your tour. You can do that easily by clicking here. You’ll have to provide some basic information like your name, email address, and the number of people in your group. Then, choose your preferred date and time, pick up location, and make your payment.

Step 2: Meeting and Pickup

On the day of your tour, you will either be picked up from Beijing Capital International Airport or from your nearby hotel. If you choose to be picked up from your hotel, make sure to provide the name and address of your hotel when you book your tour.

Step 3: Explore the Temple of Heaven

The first stop on your tour will be the Temple of Heaven, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that was once used by emperors to pray for good harvests. The temple complex covers an area of over 270 acres and is surrounded by a beautiful park. Your tour guide will take you on a 1-hour tour of the temple complex, explaining its history and architecture. You’ll have plenty of time to take pictures and soak in the atmosphere.

Step 4: Walk through Guozijian Hutong

After the Temple of Heaven, you will head to the Guozijian Hutong, a historic street in Beijing that is home to numerous traditional courtyards, shops, and restaurants. You’ll spend 2 hours exploring this quaint street, seeing how locals live and immersing yourself in the culture of Beijing. Your guide will point out interesting landmarks and explain the significance of the area.

Step 5: Enjoy Local Food

No visit to Beijing is complete without trying some of the local delicacies. Your tour guide will take you to a local restaurant where you’ll get to taste some authentic Beijing cuisine. The lunch is included in your tour price and you’ll get to try different dishes and teas.

Step 6: Return to Meeting Point

After filling your stomachs, you’ll head back to the meeting point. The tour ends back at the pickup location and you’ll be either taken back to the airport or dropped off at your hotel, depending on your preference.

Step 7: Notes on the Tour

The tour is wheelchair accessible and stroller-friendly. Infant seats are also available if needed. Confirmation of your booking will be provided at the time of your booking, and you can cancel the tour up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund. The dress code is comfortable and casual, but make sure to wear comfortable shoes as there will be a lot of walking.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Beijing Private Layover Tour to Temple of Heaven, Guozijian Hutong, and Local Food is a fantastic way to experience the beauty and culture of Beijing in a short amount of time. Book your tour today and let an experienced guide take you on a journey that you’ll never forget.

Beijing: Answers to the Most Frequently Asked Questions

If you’re planning a trip to China, you’ll likely have a lot of questions about Beijing, the capital city that’s home to over 21 million people. To help you prepare for your visit, we’ve answered some of the most commonly asked questions about Beijing below.

1. What is Beijing famous for?

Beijing is known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and delicious food. Some of its top attractions include the Great Wall of China, the Forbidden City, and the Temple of Heaven. Additionally, Beijing is famous for its traditional hutongs, which are narrow alleyways lined with old homes and courtyard residences.

2. When is the best time to visit Beijing?

The best time to visit Beijing is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons when the weather is mild and comfortable. Summer can be very hot and crowded, especially in July and August. Winter can be extremely cold, with temperatures sometimes dropping below freezing.

3. How do I get around in Beijing?

Beijing has an extensive public transportation network that includes buses, subways, and taxis. The subway system is the easiest and most efficient way to get around the city, with signs and announcements available in English. Taxis are also widely available but can be more expensive, especially during rush hour.

4. What are some must-try foods in Beijing?

Beijing is known for its delicious cuisine, which includes dishes such as Peking duck, jianbing (a crispy breakfast crepe), and zhajiangmian (noodles with soybean paste). Other popular foods in Beijing include dumplings, baozi (steamed buns), and hot pot.

5. What are some popular tourist attractions in Beijing?

Beijing has a wealth of popular tourist attractions, including:

The Great Wall of China:

One of the most iconic landmarks in the world, the Great Wall stretches over 13,000 miles and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

The Forbidden City:

Home to China’s emperors for over 500 years, the Forbidden City is a massive palace complex that’s now open to the public as a museum.

The Temple of Heaven:

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this temple complex was used by emperors as a site for annual rituals and sacrifices.

The Summer Palace:

A beautiful imperial garden, the Summer Palace is home to pavilions, temples, and a large lake.

The National Museum of China:

One of the largest museums in the world, this museum features a vast collection of Chinese art, history, and cultural artifacts.

6. What are some cultural norms in Beijing?

When visiting Beijing, it’s important to be aware of and respectful of the local culture. Some cultural norms to keep in mind include:

Dress modestly:

Dress modestly when visiting religious sites or public places.

Respect elders:

In Chinese culture, showing respect for elders is very important and is considered a sign of good character.

Avoid public displays of affection:

Public displays of affection, such as kissing or hugging, are generally frowned upon in Chinese culture.

Use chopsticks correctly:

If you’re going to be eating with chopsticks, make sure you know how to use them correctly. Avoid using them to point or wave at others.

7. What is the currency used in Beijing?

The currency used in Beijing (and throughout China) is the Chinese yuan (CNY or RMB). ATMs are widely available throughout the city, and many vendors now accept payment through mobile apps such as WeChat and Alipay.

8. Do I need a visa to visit Beijing?

Yes, most visitors to Beijing will need a visa to enter the country. Visa requirements can vary depending on your country of origin and the length of your stay. Make sure to check with your local embassy or visa service for the most up-to-date information.

9. How can I stay safe while visiting Beijing?

Beijing is generally a safe city, but it’s always best to take precautions when traveling. Some tips for staying safe in Beijing include:

Avoid traveling alone at night:

Stick to well-lit areas and avoid traveling alone at night.

Watch out for scams:

Be on guard for common scams, such as fake taxis or individuals posing as police officers.

Protect your belongings:

Always keep an eye on your belongings and be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas.

Be cautious with food and drinks:

Be cautious when trying new foods or drinks, particularly street food or local specialties that may not be prepared to the same food safety standards as restaurants.

10. What are some basic Mandarin phrases to know when visiting Beijing?

Learning a few basic Mandarin phrases can go a long way when traveling in Beijing. Here are a few phrases to get you started:

Nǐ hǎo:

Hello

Zàijiàn:

Goodbye

Xièxiè:

Thank you

Tīng bù dǒng:

I don’t understand

Zài jiàn:

See you later

Conclusion

Hopefully, this guide has helped answer some of your most pressing questions about Beijing. With its rich history, beautiful architecture, and delicious food, Beijing is an amazing destination that’s worth adding to your travel bucket list. By following these tips, you’ll be able to make the most of your trip and have a safe and enjoyable experience in this incredible city.