How to Plan Your Mini Group: 2-Day Beijing Highlights and Great Wall Tour

Are you planning a trip to Beijing and looking for a comprehensive city tour that covers all of the major attractions? Look no further than the Mini Group: 2-Day Beijing Highlights and Great Wall Tour. This tour offers an in-depth sightseeing experience over two days, with transportation and lunch included. Here’s everything you need to know to plan your tour.

Overview

During this tour, you’ll visit major attractions like Tian’anmen Square, the Forbidden City, the Summer Palace, the Temple of Heaven, and the Great Wall of China at Mutianyu. With a knowledgeable guide to lead the way, you’ll gain a great overview and orientation of the city. This is an ideal tour for first-time visitors looking to see the sights, learn about the history and culture of Beijing, and take in the beauty of the Great Wall.

Day 1: Beijing City Highlights

On the first day of the Mini Group: 2-Day Beijing Highlights and Great Wall Tour, you’ll be picked up from your hotel within the 4th Ring Zone of Beijing City. The tour starts with a visit to Tian’anmen Square, the largest public square in the world. You’ll learn about the history and symbolism of the square as your guide leads you past landmarks like the Monument to the People’s Heroes, the Great Hall of the People, and the National Museum of China.

From there, you’ll enter the Forbidden City, an enormous palace complex that was once the home of Chinese emperors. Your guide will take you on a tour through the different sections of the palace, sharing stories and historical facts along the way.

Next, you’ll visit the Temple of Heaven, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that served as a place of worship for emperors of the Ming and Qing dynasties. You’ll learn about the temple’s architecture and the ceremonies that took place here.

Finally, the tour concludes with a visit to the Summer Palace, a sprawling royal garden that features lakes, pavilions, and thousands of trees. You’ll have time to explore the gardens, take photos, and relax before returning to your hotel.

Day 2: The Great Wall at Mutianyu

On the second day of the Mini Group: 2-Day Beijing Highlights and Great Wall Tour, you’ll be picked up from your hotel again and driven to the Great Wall at Mutianyu. This section of the wall is known for its stunning scenery and fewer crowds than other sections, making it the perfect spot for a leisurely hike.

Once you arrive, you’ll take a cable car up to the wall, where you’ll have about two hours to explore. You can walk along the wall, take photos, and enjoy the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. When you’re ready to come down, you’ll have the option to take a toboggan ride or walk back down to the bottom.

After your time on the wall, you’ll have lunch at a local restaurant before returning to your hotel in Beijing.

What’s Included

The Mini Group: 2-Day Beijing Highlights and Great Wall Tour includes the following:

– Hotel pickup and drop-off services are available within the 4th Ring Zone of Beijing City
– All admission tickets as listed in the itinerary
– English-speaking tour guide service
– Lunch on both days

What’s not included:

– Personal expenses
– Hotel accommodation
– Gratuities (recommended)

Booking Your Tour

To book the Mini Group: 2-Day Beijing Highlights and Great Wall Tour, simply visit the Viator website and follow the instructions. The link to book the tour is here: book the tour here. Don’t wait – this popular tour fills up quickly, so be sure to book your spot in advance.

Conclusion

The Mini Group: 2-Day Beijing Highlights and Great Wall Tour is the perfect way to see all of the major attractions of Beijing in just two days. With a knowledgeable guide, transportation, and lunch included, this tour takes care of all the details so that you can sit back, relax, and enjoy the sights. Book your tour today and get ready for an unforgettable experience in Beijing!

The Insider’s Guide to Exploring Beijing

Beijing, the bustling and vibrant capital city of China, is a cosmopolitan destination that offers visitors a chance to delve into the rich cultural heritage and enjoy modern amenities. It is a city filled with hidden gems that only locals know, and we’ll take you on a journey to discover those secrets. If you’re looking for an unforgettable experience in Beijing, read on for our comprehensive guide.

Local Attractions: Beyond the Common Tourist Spots

The Forbidden City, Tienanmen Square, and the Great Wall are undoubtedly Beijing’s most famous tourist attractions. But, as an insider, we recommend some off-the-beaten-path destinations. The 798 Art Zone, a former industrial district, has been transformed into a hub for contemporary art and culture. The Temple of Heaven is another exquisite imperial temple complex that has a fascinating cultural history and is perfect for a peaceful stroll.

For architecture enthusiasts, head to the Hutongs, a winding labyrinth of narrow alleys that used to be pedestrian-only zones. Many of the courtyard houses were restored, and you can go on a guided walking tour to learn more about traditional Beijing architecture.

Dining Spots: Local Cuisine and Its Origins

Beijing, often referred to as the culinary capital of China, is renowned for its diverse culinary scene. However, if you want to taste authentic Beijing cuisine, you must try the ‘Peking duck.’ This appetizing dish originated towards the end of the Ming Dynasty. There are several local restaurants that serve authentic Peking duck, including Quanjude, one of the oldest and most famous restaurants that has been serving Peking duck for over a century.

For those craving a more adventurous culinary experience, go to Gui Street, a street food mecca. Here, you’ll find delicious snacks and local delicacies, such as scorpions and sea urchins.

Cultural Experiences: Traditions, Festivals, Art, Music, and Customs

To appreciate the rich cultural heritage of Beijing, you must explore the city’s traditional festivals. The Temple Fair is celebrated on the fifteenth day of Chinese New Year. It is a vibrant display of traditional Chinese culture, featuring lion dances, dragon boat races, and street performances.

The National Centre for the Performing Arts (NCPA) is a must-see for music and theater lovers. The stunning contemporary architecture houses an opera house, a concert hall, and a theatre that showcases performances by top artists from around the world.

Visit the Confucius Temple to gain insights into Chinese philosophy and culture. The temple, located near Guloudajie, is peaceful and serene and features a fascinating history museum with exhibits showcasing Confucian philosophy and Chinese calligraphy.

Local History: Captivating Stories from the City’s Past

Beijing’s history is full of interesting stories, legends, and myths. The Beijing Capital Museum, located in the Chaoyang District, displays thousands of years of imperial history, including rare artifacts and relics.

For something more offbeat, take a stroll through Ghost Street, where it is believed that the spirit world and the living world intersect. The street is bustling with restaurants, cafes, and street food vendors that remain open late into the night.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions: Unique Experiences

For a unique cultural experience, visit the Liulichang Cultural Street, located near Hepingmen. The street is known for its traditional stores selling calligraphy brushes, antiques, and souvenirs. A great place to purchase unique gifts to take back home.

To escape the hustle and bustle of the city, head to Fragrant Hills Park, located in the Western Hills district. The park is known for its magnificent natural beauty, especially during autumn, when the leaves on the trees change color.

To conclude, Beijing is a city that is full of hidden treasures waiting to be discovered. Whether you’re looking to learn about the local history or taste unique cuisine, there is something for everyone in this vibrant city. Follow our insider’s guide to uncover the gems that only locals know and experience Beijing like a true insider.