How to Plan Your Private Day Tour: Summer Palace, Lama Temple and Hutong Experience in Beijing

Planning a tour can be overwhelming, especially if you are visiting a city for the first time. With so many sights to see and activities to do, it can be tough to decide which ones to prioritize. If you are planning a trip to Beijing, we recommend a private day tour of the Summer Palace, Lama Temple, and Hutong experience. Keep reading for all the details you need to plan your tour.

Overview of the Tour

The private day tour of the Summer Palace, Lama Temple and Hutong Experience is an eight-hour tour that takes you through some of the most iconic sites in Beijing. The tour includes private transportation, English-speaking guide, entrance ticket fees, lunch, and gratuities. All you need to do is sit back, relax, and enjoy your tour.

Meeting and Pickup Details

The tour offers pickup from your centrally located Beijing downtown hotels within the 3rd ring road, and drop-off at your centrally located Beijing downtown hotel. Make sure to provide detailed hotel information while booking. The start time is 09:00 AM, and the ticket redemption point is Beijing China.

What to Expect

The tour begins with a visit to the Summer Palace, one of the most beautiful parks in Beijing. You will get a chance to explore the Long Corridor, which is the longest covered walkway in the world, and visit the Marble Boat, a famous landmark in the park.

Next, you will visit the Lama Temple, one of the most important Tibetan Buddhist temples outside of Tibet. The temple houses a stunning 26-meter tall statue of Maitreya Buddha carved from a single piece of sandalwood. You will also get to see the famous Hall of Heavenly Kings, which houses four giant statues guarding the entrance.

After that, you will experience a traditional Beijing Hutong tour on a rickshaw. A Hutong is an ancient alley or lane typical in Beijing, and a rickshaw ride is a great way to explore and experience the local culture. The ride will take you through narrow alleys, where you can admire traditional Chinese courtyards.

Additional Information

Confirmation will be received at the time of booking. Please note that this tour is not wheelchair accessible. Most travelers can participate. The tour is operated by Tour Insiders. If you need to cancel your tour, you can do so 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.

Book the Tour Here

Ready to book your private day tour of the Summer Palace, Lama Temple, and Hutong experience in Beijing? Click here to book your tour now.

Conclusion

A private day tour of the Summer Palace, Lama Temple, and Hutong experience is a great way to explore Beijing’s rich history and culture. With an English-speaking guide and private transportation, you can sit back, relax, and enjoy your tour. We hope this guide provides you with all the information you need to plan your perfect tour in Beijing.

An Insider’s Guide to Beijing, China

Beijing, the capital city of China, is a fascinating destination that offers a mix of modern and ancient culture. With its rich history, incredible monuments, and tasty cuisine, Beijing is a must-visit for anyone heading to China. Here’s an insider’s guide to help you plan your trip to Beijing.

Local Attractions

There is no shortage of cultural and historical landmarks to visit in Beijing. Here are some of the top attractions that you should not miss:

The Great Wall of China

The Great Wall is one of the world’s most famous landmarks, and it spans over 13,000 miles. While you can visit many different sections of the Great Wall, the most popular section for tourists is Badaling. Be sure to arrive early to avoid the crowds.

Forbidden City

Another iconic landmark in Beijing is the Forbidden City. This imperial palace was once home to emperors of the Ming and Qing dynasties. It is now a UNESCO World Heritage site, and a must-see for anyone interested in Chinese history.

Temple of Heaven

The Temple of Heaven is a beautiful Taoist temple that was once used by emperors for offering prayers for a good harvest. The temple’s architecture is stunning, and the gardens surrounding it are a perfect spot for a peaceful stroll on a sunny day.

Dining Spots

Beijing is famous for its diverse cuisine, which includes dishes like Peking duck, hotpot, and dumplings. Here are some dining spots that you should add to your list:

Din Tai Fung

Din Tai Fung is a popular Taiwanese chain, and it has a few locations in Beijing. It’s a great spot to try xiaolongbao, a type of soup dumpling that’s famous throughout China.

Lao Beijing

Lao Beijing is a local restaurant that serves traditional Beijing cuisine. The restaurant is located in a restored traditional courtyard house, and the atmosphere is cozy and welcoming. Make sure to try the jiaozi (dumplings) and zhajiangmian (noodles with soybean paste).

Goubuli

Goubuli is a chain of restaurants that specializes in baozi, a type of steamed bun. The baozi are filled with a variety of meats and vegetables, and they are incredibly delicious. Be sure to try the famous “Goubuli Steamed Bun” when you visit.

Cultural Experiences

If you’re interested in experiencing Beijing’s culture, here are some activities you should add to your itinerary:

Explore the Hutongs

Hutongs are traditional alleyways that offer a glimpse into the daily life of Beijing’s residents. You can explore them on foot or by bike and get a sense of the city’s history and culture.

Watch a Peking Opera

Peking Opera is a traditional art form that combines singing, dancing, and acrobatics. If you’re interested in Chinese culture, watching a Peking Opera is a must. You can find performances at the Liyuan Theatre or the National Centre for the Performing Arts.

Tai Chi at the Temple of Heaven

Join the many locals practicing tai chi in the early morning at the Temple of Heaven. You can learn the basics from a tai chi master or simply watch and admire the calming movements as you take in the beautiful setting.

Local History

Beijing has a rich history that spans over 3,000 years. Here are some historical facts that you should know:

The Ming and Qing Dynasties

The Ming and Qing dynasties were the last two imperial dynasties of China. Many of Beijing’s famous landmarks were built during these eras, including the Forbidden City, the Temple of Heaven, and the Summer Palace.

The Cultural Revolution

The Cultural Revolution was a tumultuous period in Chinese history that lasted from 1966-1976. During this time, many landmarks and cultural relics were destroyed or damaged. The Temple of Heaven, luckily escaped the destruction.

Tiananmen Square Incident

The Tiananmen Square Incident occurred in 1989, when Chinese students protested for democracy and free speech. The government responded with violence, resulting in the deaths of many protesters. Tiananmen Square remains a symbol of the student movement.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

If you’re looking to venture off the beaten path, here are some suggestions:

The Beijing Art District

The Beijing Art District is a neighborhood that’s filled with galleries, shops, and cafes. It’s a great spot to explore if you’re interested in contemporary art and culture.

The 798 Art District

The 798 Art District is another art-focused area in Beijing. It’s home to galleries, cafes, and restaurants, and it’s a great spot to take in some modern Chinese art.

The Jade Factory

The Jade Factory is a showroom where you can learn about jade and its significance in Chinese culture. You can also watch artisans at work and purchase a piece of your own.

Conclusion

Beijing is a city that’s overflowing with history and culture. Whether you’re interested in exploring landmarks like the Great Wall and Forbidden City or experiencing local cuisine and culture, Beijing has something to offer everyone. Follow this insider guide, and you’re sure to have an unforgettable trip to China’s capital city.