How to Plan Your Private Day Tour of Mutianyu Great Wall and Summer Palace or Hutong in Beijing

Beijing, the capital city of China, is a hub of history and culture, and is known for its ancient landmarks and monuments. Amongst these, the Great Wall of China is one of the most popular sights you must visit while in Beijing. This tour offers a chance to visit the Mutianyu section of the Great Wall and a choice of visiting either the Summer Palace or Hutong, with a private guide and transportation, making the experience hassle-free.

Overview

The Private Day Tour of Mutianyu Great Wall and Summer Palace or Hutong in Beijing is a full-day tour that takes visitors on a journey to explore two of the most iconic landmarks in Beijing. The tour starts with hotel pickup, after which visitors are taken to Mutianyu, one of the most famous sections of the Great Wall, located 70 kilometers northeast of Beijing. Visitors can take the cable car or chairlift up the Wall and enjoy a scenic view of the mountainous terrain and the surrounding Gubeikou area. After visiting the Great Wall, visitors have the option to choose between two different locations to visit next: the Summer Palace or Hutong. The Summer Palace is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Beijing and is located in the northwest part of the city. Hutongs, on the other hand, are narrow alleyways or streets found in Beijing’s central neighborhoods, lined with traditional courtyard residences. Visitors can choose one of the two locations for a city tour before returning to their hotels.

What’s Included

The tour includes an English-speaking tour guide, hotel pickup and drop-off, private transportation, cable car ride, and lunch. Visitors will not have to worry about out-of-pocket ticket costs as all entry fees are included in the tour price. Gratuity for the tour guide is also included in the package.

Customized Itinerary

This Private Day Tour is unique in that it allows visitors to customize their itinerary according to their own preference. The tour guide will discuss the itinerary with visitors and make recommendations based on their interests, providing a personalized tour experience. Visitors have the chance to see the sights they want to see and spend as much time as they would like at each location.

Tour Details

The tour starts at 8:30 AM, with your guide picking you up from your hotel. Visitors can choose from a selection of pickup points. The entire tour is conducted in a private vehicle, which includes a comfortable air-conditioned car with plenty of space for the visitors. Visitors will be taken directly to the Mutianyu Great Wall, where an English-speaking tour guide will be present to provide details about the Wall’s history and significance. After touring the Great Wall for approximately two hours, visitors will enjoy delicious Chinese cuisine lunch. The Western-style restaurant provides a range of vegetarian and meat options including fish, chicken, beef, tofu, vegetables, and rice. After lunch, visitors can choose to visit either the Summer Palace or Hutong. The Summer Palace is a vast area consisting of lakes, pavilions, temples, and gardens, while Hutongs offer an insight into the traditional lifestyle of China’s capital. Finally, visitors will be dropped back at their hotels in Beijing after a day filled with adventures and memories.

Book Your Tour Now

The Private Day Tour of Mutianyu Great Wall and Summer Palace or Hutong in Beijing is an exciting tour that covers the most popular landmarks of Beijing. With a private tour guide, personalized itinerary, and comfortable transportation, visitors can enjoy an unforgettable tour experience in the capital city of China. Book the tour here and discover the beauty and history of Beijing’s most iconic landmarks.

Frequently Asked Questions about Beijing

Beijing, the capital city of China, is a vibrant city with a rich culture and incredible attractions. Visitors from all over the world flock to Beijing to take in the iconic landmarks, explore the historical sites, and experience the unique charm of this city. Here are some frequently asked questions about Beijing.

1. When is the best time to visit Beijing?

The best time to visit Beijing is during the spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) seasons. During these times, the temperature is mild, the air is less polluted, and the city is not too crowded. However, visitors can also consider visiting during the winter (December to February) when the city is covered in a beautiful blanket of snow.

2. What are some must-visit attractions in Beijing?

Beijing has a plethora of amazing attractions that visitors should check out. Some of the top must-visit places include:

• The Great Wall of China
• The Forbidden City
• The Temple of Heaven
• The Summer Palace
• Tiananmen Square
• The National Museum of China
• The Beijing Zoo
• The Lama Temple

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

The best way to get around Beijing is by public transportation. The city has an extensive subway system that is clean, efficient, and affordable. Visitors can also take buses, taxis, or ride-sharing services like Didi.

4. What are some local foods to try in Beijing?

Beijing is famous for its delicious cuisine. Visitors should try some of the local dishes, such as:

• Peking Duck
• Beijing Zhajiangmian (Fried Sauce Noodles)
• Hotpot
• Jingjiang Rousi (Shredded Pork in Sweet Bean Sauce)
• Chuanr (Grilled Meat Skewers)

5. What are some cultural experiences to have in Beijing?

Beijing is a city with a rich cultural heritage, and there are many ways visitors can experience its unique culture. Some cultural experiences to have in Beijing include:

• Visiting a traditional hutong neighborhood and learn about Chinese community life
• Watching a Peking Opera show
• Visiting a Chinese tea house and learn about the art of tea
• Learning about Chinese calligraphy and painting at a local art center
• Visiting a local night market and try street food while experiencing the local atmosphere

6. Where can I go for shopping in Beijing?

Beijing has many shopping areas, from luxury malls to traditional markets. Some of the best places to go for shopping include:

• Wangfujing Street
• The Silk Street Market
• Tai Koo Li Sanlitun
• Xidan Commercial Street
• Houhai Bar Street

7. Is it safe to travel to Beijing?

Beijing is generally a safe city to travel to. However, visitors should take normal travel precautions, such as being aware of their surroundings and not carrying too much cash or valuables with them. Visitors should also be aware of scams targeted at tourists, such as fake tours and overpriced goods.

8. Do I need a visa to visit Beijing?

Yes, visitors to Beijing will need a visa to enter China. However, some countries are exempt from this requirement, and visitors can stay in China for up to 72 hours without a visa if they are in transit to a third country. Visitors should check the visa requirements before planning their trip.

9. What is the currency used in Beijing?

The currency used in Beijing is the Chinese yuan (CNY). Visitors can exchange their currency at banks, hotels, and authorized exchange centers throughout the city. Many shops and restaurants in tourist areas also accept major credit cards.

10. What is the language spoken in Beijing?

The language spoken in Beijing is Mandarin Chinese. However, many people in Beijing also speak English, especially those in the tourist industry. It’s always a good idea to learn some basic Mandarin phrases before visiting Beijing to help with communication.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Beijing

Beijing, the capital and political center of China, is a city of contrasts, where ancient and modern mingle seamlessly. From exploring the majestic Forbidden City to wandering through the bustling streets of the city’s vibrant arts districts, there’s plenty to see and do as a tourist in Beijing. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you make the most of your time in China’s capital.

1. Visit the Iconic Attractions

No trip to Beijing would be complete without a visit to its most iconic attractions. These include:

The Great Wall of China

The Great Wall of China, one of the Seven Wonders of the World, is a must-see attraction for any tourist in Beijing. The wall stretches over 8,000 kilometers and was built over 2,000 years ago to protect China from invaders. Mutianyu and Badaling are the most popular sections of the wall, but for a less crowded experience, consider visiting the Jiankou or Huanghuacheng sections.

The Forbidden City

The Forbidden City was once the imperial palace of the Ming and Qing dynasties and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The vast complex contains 980 buildings and is one of the best-preserved examples of traditional Chinese architecture in the world. Be sure to visit the Palace Museum to see the extensive collection of imperial artifacts.

Tiananmen Square

Tiananmen Square is the largest public square in the world and is located in the heart of Beijing. The square is home to numerous monuments and is a symbol of China’s political power. Be sure to visit the Mao Zedong Memorial Hall and the National Museum of China while you’re there.

2. Explore the Hutongs

The hutongs are the narrow alleyways that wind through Beijing’s old neighborhoods. Exploring the hutongs is a great way to experience traditional Chinese culture and see how the locals live. You’ll find shops, restaurants, and tea houses along the way. For an authentic experience, consider taking a rickshaw tour or staying in a traditional courtyard house.

3. Visit the Temples

Beijing is home to some of the most magnificent temples in China. Here are a few that you should add to your itinerary:

The Temple of Heaven

The Temple of Heaven is a complex of religious buildings in southeastern Beijing. The temple was once used by emperors to pray for good harvests and is now a popular attraction for visitors. Be sure to see the Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests, the Circular Mound Altar, and the Imperial Vault of Heaven.

The Lama Temple

The Lama Temple, also known as the Yonghe Temple, is a Tibetan Buddhist temple in northeastern Beijing. The temple is home to numerous statues and frescoes and is a peaceful oasis in the middle of the city.

The Confucius Temple

The Confucius Temple is a temple dedicated to the memory of Confucius, the famous Chinese philosopher. The temple is located near the Lama Temple and is a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city.

4. Indulge in the Local Cuisine

Beijing is home to some of the most delicious food in China. Here are a few dishes that you must try:

Peking Duck

Peking Duck is a famous Beijing dish that has been served since the imperial era. The duck is roasted until the skin is crispy and then served with thin pancakes, scallions, and a sweet bean sauce.

Jianbing

Jianbing is a type of Chinese crepe that is popular as a street food in Beijing. The crepe is made with batter and filled with egg, cilantro, scallions, and a crispy fried cracker.

Zhajiangmian

Zhajiangmian is a type of Chinese noodles that are served with soybean paste, minced pork, and vegetables. It’s a simple yet delicious dish that’s perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.

5. Shop Until You Drop

Beijing is a shopper’s paradise, with everything from high-end boutiques to traditional markets. Here are a few places to shop:

The Silk Market

The Silk Market is a well-known market in Beijing where you can buy silk, clothing, electronics, and souvenirs. Be prepared to haggle to get the best price.

The Panjiayuan Market

The Panjiayuan Market is the largest antiques market in Beijing and is a great place to find unique souvenirs. You’ll find everything from jade carvings to Tibetan jewelry.

The Sanlitun Village

The Sanlitun Village is a high-end shopping center in Beijing with numerous luxury brands. If you’re looking for high-end fashion, this is the place to go.

Book Your Tour Now

Beijing is a city full of history, culture, and delicious food. By following this step-by-step guide, you’ll be able to make the most of your time as a tourist in Beijing. Don’t forget to bring your camera, and be prepared to be amazed by everything that this vibrant city has to offer.