How to Plan Your Private Beijing Day Tour: Tiananmen Square, Forbidden City, Temple of Heaven, and Summer Palace

Are you planning a trip to Beijing and looking for a hassle-free private tour to explore some of the most iconic landmarks? Book the Private Beijing Day Tour to Tiananmen Square, Forbidden City, Temple of Heaven, and Summer Palace, and gain insight into the imperial history of China. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to plan your tour.

Step 1: Book the Tour

Visit Viator’s website and book your tour in advance. The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off within the 4th ring road of Beijing, a private English-speaking guide, round trip cable car fees at Mutianyu Great Wall, and meals. The tour operates on all days of the week except for Mondays, as the Forbidden City is closed on Mondays. The link to book the tour is here.

Step 2: Select Your Meeting Point

You can either head directly to your preferred meeting point or request pickup from your hotel. The meeting points for the tour are:

• The lobby of your hotel (within the 4th ring road of Beijing)
• Beijing Railway Station
• Beijing South Railway Station
• Beijing West Railway Station
• Beijing Capital International Airport

Step 3: Explore Tiananmen Square

Start your tour by exploring Tiananmen Square, the largest city center square in the world, which can hold up to one million people. Your private guide will accompany you and provide interesting insights into the history and significance of the monuments in the square, such as the Monument to the People’s Heroes and Chairman Mao’s Mausoleum.

Step 4: Tour the Forbidden City

Next, head over to the Forbidden City, a massive complex of palaces and courtyards that served as the imperial palace for almost 500 years. As you walk through the halls and admire the stunning architecture and imperial treasures, your guide will provide detailed explanations of the significance of each area, including the Hall of Supreme Harmony, the Imperial Garden, and the Six Western Palaces.

Step 5: Lunch Break

After a morning of sightseeing, enjoy a delicious lunch featuring local Beijing cuisine that is included in the tour.

Step 6: Hike the Mutianyu Great Wall

After lunch, take a scenic 1.5-hour drive to Mutianyu Great Wall, one of the most famous and best-preserved sections of the Great Wall of China. Your guide will accompany you on a hike along the wall, sharing fascinating stories about its history while enjoying the breathtaking views. The tour also includes round trip cable car fees, which will allow you to experience the Wall from above.

Step 7: Visit the Temple of Heaven

On your way back to the city, visit the Temple of Heaven, another UNESCO World Heritage site in Beijing, where emperors of the Ming and Qing Dynasties held annual ceremonies to pray for good harvests. Explore the Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests, the Imperial Vault of Heaven, and the Circular Mound Altar while learning about the rituals and spiritual beliefs of the imperial families.

Step 8: Walk through the Summer Palace

End your day trip at the Summer Palace, the largest imperial garden in China, which served as a summer resort for the emperors. Walk through the Longevity Hill and Kunming Lake, marvel at the Seventeen-Arch Bridge, and admire the intricate architecture of the Marble Boat.

Step 9: Drop-off at Your Preferred Location

Finally, at the end of the tour, your guide will drop you off at your preferred location, whether it’s your hotel or any other place within the 4th ring road of Beijing.

Book Your Tour Now

Booking the Private Beijing Day Tour to Tiananmen Square, Forbidden City, Temple of Heaven, and Summer Palace is an excellent way to explore the imperial history of China without worrying about transportation, tickets, and navigating through the crowds. Follow these simple steps to plan your tour, and enjoy a hassle-free trip. Don’t forget to book the tour in advance to secure your spot.

FAQ About Beijing

Beijing, the capital city of China, is a vibrant city that is rich in history, culture, and tourist attractions. Below are some frequently asked questions about Beijing that can help you plan your trip to this beautiful city.

1. What is the best time to visit Beijing?

The best time to visit Beijing is during the autumn season from September to November when the temperature is pleasant and the city is not too crowded. Spring from March to May is also a good time to visit when the flowers are in full bloom. However, these are also peak seasons for tourists, so be prepared for bigger crowds and higher prices.

2. What are the top tourist attractions in Beijing?

Beijing is home to several world-famous tourist attractions that are a must-see for any visitor. These include:

The Great Wall of China:

A series of fortifications made of stone, brick, tamped earth, wood and other materials, generally built along an east-to-west line across the historical northern borders of China.

The Forbidden City:

An imperial palace complex in the center of Beijing, China.

The Temple of Heaven:

An imperial complex of religious buildings situated in the southeastern part of central Beijing.

The Summer Palace:

A vast ensemble of lakes, gardens and palaces in Beijing, China.

The Beijing National Stadium:

Nicknamed the ‘Bird’s Nest’ due to its unique design, it was the main stadium for the 2008 Summer Olympics.

3. What is the best way to get around Beijing?

The best way to get around Beijing is by using the city’s public transportation system, which includes subways, buses, taxis, and bikes. The subway network is extensive and affordable, with signs in both English and Chinese. Taxis are also readily available, but be sure to use a licensed taxi and negotiate the price before getting in. Bike sharing is also available, and is a good way to explore the city at a leisurely pace.

4. What is the local cuisine in Beijing?

Beijing’s cuisine is heavily influenced by its history and culture, and is known for its rich flavors and unique cooking methods. Some of the must-try dishes include:

Peking Roast Duck:

The most famous dish from Beijing, the duck is roasted until the skin is crispy and served with sweet bean sauce and pancakes.

Hotpot:

A spicy soup that is cooked at the table and is a popular dish in the winter months.

Baozi:

Steamed buns filled with meat or vegetables and are a staple food in Beijing.

Jianbing:

A crepe-like pancake filled with eggs, scallions and a variety of other toppings.

5. What are some etiquette rules to follow in Beijing?

In order to show respect for Chinese culture and tradition, there are a few important etiquette rules to follow while in Beijing, including:

Do not point with your index finger:

Pointing with your index finger is considered rude. Use your whole hand or nod in the direction instead.

Do not wear shoes indoors:

It is customary to remove your shoes before entering someone’s home.

Do not blow your nose at the table:

This is considered impolite, and it is better to excuse yourself to do so in private.

Do not touch someone’s head:

In Chinese culture, the head is considered sacred, so touching someone’s head is considered rude.

6. What is the currency used in Beijing?

The currency used in Beijing is the Chinese Yuan (CNY). It is best to exchange your currency at a bank or hotel, as many vendors do not accept foreign currency. Major credit cards are accepted in most tourist areas, but it is best to carry cash for smaller purchases.

7. What is the weather like in Beijing?

Beijing has a dry climate with four distinct seasons. Summers are hot and humid, with temperatures reaching up to 40 degrees Celsius. Winter is cold and can be snowy, with temperatures dropping to around -20 degrees Celsius. Spring and autumn are the best times to visit when the weather is mild and comfortable.

8. Are there any cultural festivals in Beijing?

Yes, Beijing is known for its many cultural festivals throughout the year. Some of the most famous festivals include the Spring Festival (Chinese New Year), the Lantern Festival, the Dragon Boat Festival, and the Mid-Autumn Festival. These festivals are a great way to experience Chinese culture and traditions firsthand.

9. What are some useful Mandarin phrases to know?

Learning a few Mandarin phrases can be helpful and show respect for the local culture. Some useful phrases to know include:

Nǐ hǎo:

Hello

Zàijiàn:

Goodbye

Xìexìe:

Thank you

Nǐ hěn piàoliang:

You are very beautiful/handsome

Qǐng:

Please

Tīng bu dǒng:

I don’t understand

10. What are some souvenirs to bring back from Beijing?

Beijing is known for its many traditional handicrafts and souvenirs. Some popular items to bring back include:

Jade:

Jade is a precious stone that is commonly found in China and is often crafted into beautiful jewelry and figurines.

Silk:

China is famous for its silk production, and you can find everything from silk scarves to silk bedding and clothing.

Tea:

China has a long history with tea, and you can find many varieties of high-quality tea in Beijing.

Calligraphy brushes:

Chinese calligraphy is an art form, and calligraphy brushes are a great souvenir for anyone interested in this traditional craft.

Chinese paper-cutting:

Paper-cutting is a traditional craft that involves cutting intricate designs out of paper. These make great souvenirs to bring back home.

Book Your Tour Now

Beijing is a fascinating city with a rich history and culture. With so much to see and do, planning your trip can be overwhelming. By following these frequently asked questions, you can help make your trip to Beijing a success. Remember to be respectful of the local culture and traditions, and have an open mind to new experiences. Safe travels!

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Beijing

Beijing, the capital city of China, is famous for its ancient historical sites, delicious cuisine, and bustling modern cityscape. The city is full of fascinating places that can occupy your time for weeks, but if you have limited time, it can be challenging to decide where to go and what to do. Here’s our guide on how to make the most of your time in Beijing as a tourist.

1. Visit the Great Wall of China

The Great Wall of China is undoubtedly one of the most iconic landmarks of the country. It’s a must-visit for all tourists visiting Beijing. It’s a massive fortress wall that was built over 2000 years ago and stretches over 6000 kilometers across the country. You can visit various sections of the Great Wall from Beijing, but the most famous and picturesque section is the Badaling section. It’s about 70 kilometers northwest of the city and takes about an hour to get there from downtown. The best time to visit the Great Wall is early in the morning or in the late afternoon, to avoid crowds and enjoy the breathtaking views of the wall and the surrounding landscape.

2. Explore the Forbidden City

No trip to Beijing is complete without a visit to the Forbidden City. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage site that served as the imperial palace for Chinese emperors during the Ming and Qing dynasties. The palace complex covers an area of 72 hectares and has over 9000 rooms, making it the largest palace complex in the world. You can spend hours exploring the intricate architecture, landscaped gardens, and imperial throne halls. It’s located in the heart of Beijing and is easily accessible by public transportation.

3. Visit Tiananmen Square

Tiananmen Square is located adjacent to the Forbidden City, and it’s the largest city square in the world. It’s a place of historical significance, as it was the site of the famous Tiananmen Square protests in 1989. You can see the Monument to the People’s Heroes, the Great Hall of the People, and the Mao Zedong Memorial Hall. It’s a great place to relax and watch the hustle and bustle of the city.

4. Wander Through the Hutongs

The Hutongs are Beijing’s unique alleyways that are formed by traditional courtyard residences. They’re a living legacy of the old Beijing lifestyle and a great way to explore the city’s history and culture. You can wander around the narrow alleys and admire the traditional architecture, local stores, and street food vendors. You can also try riding a rickshaw or take a guided tour to learn more about the hutongs’ history and the people who lived there.

5. Visit the Temple of Heaven

The Temple of Heaven is another UNESCO World Heritage site that’s located in southern Beijing. It’s a complex of ancient sacrificial buildings that were used by emperors to pay homage to the gods of heaven and earth. The temple’s architecture is a stunning example of ancient Chinese wisdom and structural design, with round structures representing heaven and square structures representing earth. You can admire the intricate details of the buildings and enjoy the peaceful surroundings of the park.

6. Sample Beijing’s Cuisine

Beijing’s cuisine is famous for its fusion of northern and southern Chinese flavors, incorporating meat, wheat, and dairy products into their dishes. No trip to Beijing is complete without trying Peking Duck, a crispy roasted duck dish that’s considered Beijing’s signature dish. You can also taste other local delicacies, such as dumplings, hotpot, and scallion pancakes. There are many restaurants and street vendors selling delicious food throughout the city.

7. Enjoy the Nightlife

Beijing has a vibrant nightlife scene that offers something for everyone. You can go bar-hopping in Sanlitun, a trendy district that’s popular among expats and locals. You can also go clubbing in the Chaoyang district, where you can dance to the latest music until the early hours of the morning. If you’re looking for a more cultural experience, you can watch traditional Chinese performances, such as acrobatics shows, Peking Opera, and Kung Fu performances.

Book Your Tour Now

Beijing is an exciting city that has something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, architecture, or food, Beijing has it all. You can visit the Great Wall of China, explore the Forbidden City, wander through the hutongs, sample Beijing’s cuisine, and enjoy the city’s vibrant nightlife. With this guide, you can make the most of your time as a tourist in Beijing and create unforgettable memories.