How to Plan Your Private Beijing Summer Palace Tour with Dum Sum

If you’re looking for a fun and culturally rich experience in Beijing, a private tour of the Summer Palace with dum sum is an excellent choice. This four-hour tour will take you on a journey through one of Beijing’s most beautiful and historic landmarks, with the added bonus of experiencing some delicious local cuisine.

Overview

Your private tour will begin with hotel pickup and drop-off, ensuring a stress-free and convenient start to your excursion. You’ll be accompanied by an English-speaking tour guide who will provide insight and historical context into the Summer Palace’s significance, architecture, and attractions. Gratuities are recommended but not included, and any other expenses not listed are also at your own cost.

What’s Included

The following inclusions are part of your four-hour private tour of the Summer Palace with dum sum: – Hotel pickup and drop-off – Excellent English-speaking tour guide – Admission ticket to the Summer Palace – Dum sum meal

Meeting and Pickup

Before booking your tour, be sure to select your preferred pickup point to ensure a smooth start to your day. Your tour guide will provide detailed instructions on where to meet and what to expect, so you’re fully prepared for your adventure.

What to Expect

Once you arrive at the Summer Palace, you’ll have approximately two hours to explore the breathtaking grounds and immerse yourself in the history and culture of the palace. You’ll get to witness the beauty of the natural landscape, including a large lake, stunning gardens, and a variety of grand pavilions, temples, and halls. Your knowledgeable tour guide will provide historical, cultural, and architectural insights into the various landmarks and attractions, including the iconic Tower of Buddhist Incense. Be sure to have your camera ready to capture photos of these stunning and historic landmarks. In addition to exploring the Summer Palace, you’ll also get to indulge in some of Beijing’s renowned cuisine with an included dum sum meal. You’ll taste a variety of dishes, all while taking in the views of the palace gardens.

Additional Info

It’s important to note that this experience is not wheelchair accessible and may include over 10,000 steps or the equivalent of 30 floors. If you have back problems or are pregnant, this tour is not recommended. Those with heart problems or other serious medical conditions should also reconsider participating.

Summer Palace Attractions

To help you plan your visit further, the following are the top attractions you can expect to see during your private tour of the Summer Palace:

1. Long Corridor: A 728-meter covered walkway decorated with more than 14,000 paintings and traditional Chinese artwork
2. Kunming Lake: A large and serene body of water which encompasses three quarters of the palace’s total area
3. The Marble Boat: A unique structure built entirely of marble and originally constructed as a gift for the Empress Dowager Cixi
4. Suzhou Street: A collection of traditional Chinese shops and architecture reminiscent of the town of Suzhou in southern China

Cancellation Policy

If your plans change, you can cancel your booking up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund. However, keep in mind that canceling less than 24 hours before the tour start time will result in no refund.

Book Your Private Beijing Summer Palace Tour with Dum Sum Today

Ready to experience the beauty and culture of the Summer Palace with dum sum? Book your four-hour private tour today through Viator at the following link: book here. Be sure to select your preferred pickup point and prepare for a day of adventure and culinary delight in Beijing.

Frequently Asked Questions About Beijing

If you’re planning a trip to Beijing, you probably have a lot of questions. We’ve put together answers to some of the most commonly asked questions to help make your trip planning a breeze.

1. What is the best time of year to visit Beijing?

The best times to visit Beijing are in the spring (April to May) and autumn (September to October) when the weather is mild and pleasant. Summer can be very hot and humid, while winters are cold and often snowy.

2. Do I need a visa to enter Beijing?

Yes, most visitors to China will need a visa to enter Beijing. You can apply for a visa at a Chinese embassy or consulate in your home country before you depart. Alternatively, you can apply for a visa on arrival at Beijing Capital International Airport if you are eligible.

3. What is the local currency in Beijing?

The local currency in Beijing is the Chinese Yuan Renminbi (CNY). You can exchange your foreign currency for CNY at banks and exchange bureaus throughout the city.

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

The best way to get around Beijing is by subway or bus. The subway system is very extensive and affordable, with train lines covering most of the city’s major attractions. Buses are also a cheap and convenient option, but can be crowded during peak times.

5. What is the most popular attraction in Beijing?

The most popular attraction in Beijing is the Great Wall of China. This ancient wall stretches for over 13,000 miles and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Other top attractions include the Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square, and the Summer Palace.

6. What is the local cuisine like in Beijing?

Beijing is known for its delicious cuisine, which includes dishes like Peking duck, hot pot, and dumplings. You can find these dishes and more at local restaurants and street food vendors throughout the city.

7. Is it safe to travel to Beijing?

Yes, Beijing is generally a safe city for tourists. However, like any large city, it is important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to avoid theft and scams.

8. What is the local language in Beijing?

The local language in Beijing is Mandarin Chinese. While many locals speak English, it’s a good idea to learn a few basic phrases in Chinese to make your trip smoother.

9. What are some cultural customs to be aware of in Beijing?

In Beijing, it’s important to be mindful of cultural customs like removing your shoes when entering someone’s home, using both hands to exchange business cards, and not sticking your chopsticks upright in your food.

10. What should I pack for a trip to Beijing?

When traveling to Beijing, it’s important to pack for the weather. In the summer, pack light, breathable clothing and sunscreen. In the winter, pack warm layers and a heavy coat. Comfortable walking shoes are also a must for exploring the city’s many attractions. Overall, Beijing is a fascinating and exciting destination that offers something for everyone. Plan your trip carefully, and you’re sure to have a memorable experience.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Beijing

Beijing is not only the capital city of China but also one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. With its rich history, fascinating culture, and vibrant nightlife, it offers something for everyone. If you’re planning to visit Beijing as a tourist, you’re in for a real treat. In this guide, we’ll show you how to spend your time in Beijing to make the most of your trip.

1. Visit the Great Wall of China

No visit to Beijing is complete without visiting the Great Wall of China, one of the Seven Wonders of the World. The wall runs for more than 13,000 miles, but the most popular section for tourists to visit is the Badaling section, located about 70 km from the city. The views from the wall are breathtaking, and you can take a cable car up to the wall if you don’t want to hike.

2. Explore the Forbidden City

The Forbidden City is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the former imperial palace of China. The Ming and Qing dynasties ruled China from the Forbidden City for almost 500 years. Its 980 buildings cover an area of over 720,000 square meters, and it has more than 8,000 rooms. It’s best to hire a guide to take you through the palace and explain the history and significance of each building.

3. Wander around Tiananmen Square

Tiananmen Square is the largest public square in the world and is located in the center of Beijing. It’s the site of the infamous 1989 protests that ended in a tragic massacre. However, today it’s a bustling square where locals gather to fly kites, practice tai chi, and take photos. You can also visit the Mausoleum of Mao Zedong and the National Museum of China, which are located on the square.

4. Visit the Summer Palace

The Summer Palace is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located about 15 km from Beijing. It’s a beautifully landscaped park with palaces, gardens, and a man-made lake. The palace was used as a summer retreat by the imperial family in the Qing dynasty. You can take a boat ride on the lake, climb up to the hilltop pagoda for a great view of the park, or simply relax and enjoy the scenery.

5. Get lost in the hutongs

The hutongs are narrow alleys lined with traditional courtyard houses that date back to the Ming and Qing dynasties. They offer a glimpse into Beijing’s past and are a great place to explore on foot or by bike. You can find traditional shops, tea houses, and restaurants hidden in the hutongs. Some of the best hutongs to visit are Nanluoguxiang, Dashilar, and Wudaoying.

6. Sample Beijing cuisine

Beijing is famous for its cuisine, which has a long history and unique flavor. Some of the must-try dishes include Peking roast duck, jianbing (a type of pancake stuffed with savory fillings), zhajiangmian (noodles with soybean paste and vegetables), and roujiamo (Chinese-style hamburger). You can find these dishes in traditional restaurants or street food stalls throughout the city.

7. Experience Beijing’s nightlife

Beijing has a lively nightlife scene with plenty of bars, clubs, and night markets to explore. Some of the most popular areas for nightlife include Sanlitun, Houhai, and Gulou. You can enjoy live music, dance performances, and traditional Chinese entertainment. Don’t forget to try some local craft beer and fruit wine while you’re out.

8. Attend a traditional Chinese performance

Beijing is home to some of the best traditional Chinese performances, including Peking Opera, acrobatics, and Chinese folk music. You can catch a performance at one of the many theaters in the city, such as the National Centre for the Performing Arts, the Huguang Guild Hall, or the Red Theatre.

Book Your Tour Now

Beijing is a fascinating city with a rich history and culture that’s worth exploring. Whether you’re interested in history, art, food, or nightlife, there’s something for everyone in Beijing. With this guide, you’re sure to have a memorable trip and make the most of your time in the city.