How to Plan Your Perfect Private Layover Tour of Beijing Hutong with Lunch and Airport Pickup

If you’re traveling through Beijing and have a layover of at least 7 hours, why not take a private layover tour of Beijing Hutong with lunch and airport pickup? This tour is perfect for those who want to experience authentic Chinese culture in a short amount of time. Here’s how to plan your perfect layover tour.

Step 1: Book Your Tour

To secure your spot on this private layover tour, book your tour on Viator’s website ahead of time. The tour costs $240 per group, and can accommodate up to 4 people. What’s included? Your tour comes with bottled water and a bowl of Zhajiangmian noodles, one of the most popular dishes in Beijing. A professional tour guide will show you around and give you a detailed account of the history and culture of Beijing’s Hutongs.

Step 2: Select Your Pickup Point

When booking your tour, select your pickup point. Your tour guide will either pick you up from Beijing Capital International Airport or a nearby hotel. If you’re coming from the airport, your tour guide will meet you at the arrival hall after you’ve cleared customs. You can also choose to be picked up from your hotel if you’re already staying in Beijing.

Step 3: Begin Your Tour

Your tour begins at 8:30 AM sharp. Once you’ve been picked up by your tour guide, you’ll head straight to Beijing’s Hutongs. Hutongs are narrow alleys and traditional Chinese courtyard residences that date back to the Yuan Dynasty. Your tour guide will take you on a rickshaw ride through the old alleyways so you can experience the local atmosphere firsthand.

Step 4: Explore Beijing’s Hutongs

During your tour, you’ll visit four different Hutongs: Yandai Xiejie Hutong, Nanluoguxiang Hutong, Guozijian Street, and Shichahai Lake. Along the way, you’ll learn about the history of Beijing’s Hutongs as well as the way of life of its local residents. Your tour guide will take you to hidden gems that only locals know about, such as off-the-beaten-path alleyways, traditional courtyard houses, and local markets.

Step 5: Enjoy Lunch

After a morning of exploring the Hutongs, it’s time to eat! Your tour includes a bowl of Zhajiangmian noodles, a hearty and delicious dish that’s popular among locals. Your tour guide will take you to a local restaurant renowned for its Zhajiangmian noodles. You’ll also have the opportunity to try other traditional Chinese dishes if you wish.

Step 6: Return to Beijing Capital International Airport

After lunch, your tour guide will take you back to Beijing Capital International Airport in time for your international flight. If you have any spare time, you can also choose to be dropped off at your hotel in Beijing instead.

Additional Information

Here are a few additional things to keep in mind when planning your perfect private layover tour of Beijing Hutong with lunch and airport pickup:

– Confirmation of your booking will be received at the time of booking.
– This tour is wheelchair accessible, stroller accessible, and can accommodate infants in car seats.
– This is a private tour, which means only your group will participate.
– 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 experience’s start time the amount you paid will not be refunded.
– Any changes made less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time will not be accepted.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a way to get the most out of your layover in Beijing, this private layover tour of Beijing Hutong with lunch and airport pickup is perfect for you. You’ll get to see the best of Beijing’s Hutongs, sample some of the city’s most delicious food, and be back in time for your international flight. Book the tour here and experience the best of Beijing’s Hutongs.

Frequently Asked Questions About Beijing

Beijing is a fascinating city that has been attracting visitors from all over the world for centuries. From its rich cultural heritage to its modern skyscrapers, there is no shortage of things to see and do in China’s capital city. However, for many first-time visitors, navigating the city can be a daunting experience. In this post, we will answer some of the most frequently asked questions about Beijing to help you plan your trip.

1. What 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. During these periods, the weather is mild and pleasant, and the skies are usually clear. The summer months (June to August) can be hot and humid, while the winter months (December to February) can be bitterly cold and windy. However, if you love winter sports, then visiting Beijing during the winter season could be a great idea.

2. How do I get around in Beijing?

Beijing has an extensive public transportation system that includes buses, the subway, and taxis. The subway system is one of the most efficient ways to travel around the city. The subway lines are color-coded and numbered, making it easy for visitors to navigate. It is advisable to purchase a transportation card, such as the Beijing Transportation Smart Card or Yikatong to make travel more convenient. Taxis are also plentiful, but it’s important to ensure that the taxi meter is turned on before embarking on a journey. Alternately, hire a private driver through a car rental service if you have more substantial flexibility in your budget as they can take you from site to site quickly and provide a personalized tour guide experience of Beijing.

3. Is it safe to drink tap water in Beijing?

It is not advisable to drink tap water in Beijing, as the quality is often poor. It’s always recommended to drink bottled or filtered water during your stay in the city.

4. What are some must-visit places in Beijing?

Beijing is a city that offers a wide range of attractions, from historical sites to modern shopping centers. Some of the must-visit places during your trip include:

– The Great Wall of China
– The Forbidden City
– The Temple of Heaven
– The Summer Palace
– Tiananmen Square
– The National Stadium (also known as the Bird’s Nest)

It’s also worth exploring the city’s neighborhoods, such as the hutongs (traditional alleyways), to get a flavor of the local life and culture.

5. What’s the local currency in Beijing?

The local currency in Beijing is the Chinese Yuan (CNY). It’s advisable to exchange your currency at banks or authorized exchange centers to avoid counterfeit currency issues.

6. What should I pack for my trip to Beijing?

Pack according to the season and the intended activities you have planned. In general, it’s advisable to pack comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, and a hat during the summer months. During the winter, bring warm clothing, a hat, gloves, and a scarf to protect against the cold. Also, pack an adapter for your electronics, as China uses outlets that are different from those used in many other countries.

7. What’s the food like in Beijing?

Beijing is known for its delicious and diverse cuisine, ranging from traditional dishes like Peking Roasted Duck and Mongolian Hot Pot to modern takes on international cuisine. Street food is also a great way to experience local flavors and dishes. Still, visitors should be cautious when sampling food from street vendors to avoid any stomach upset.

8. Do I need a visa to enter Beijing?

Most foreign visitors to Beijing will require a visa to enter. It’s advisable to check the visa requirements for your specific country before planning your trip.

Conclusion

Beijing is an incredible city with a rich cultural heritage and modern amenities, making it an ideal destination for travelers looking to explore China. With our guide to the most frequently asked questions about Beijing, we hope that you’ll be able to plan and enjoy your trip to this fascinating city with ease. Consider hiring a private driver to make your sightseeing even more convenient and effective; ENL translators are highly recommended for the best understanding possible of your driver’s and guide’s services in Beijing.