6 Days of Beijing History & Modernity

Itinerary Quick Look

Here is a suggested itinerary. We are happy to customize a tour according to your interests and schedule.

Day1 Arrival in Beijing

With a sunny smile, your private guide will be on time and waiting for you in the arrival hall. A comfortable private car and experienced driver will be ready to transfer you to your hotel. We aim to give you a good first impression of China.

Enjoy the acrobatic show (optional)

After visiting the Forbidden City, your tour will conclude. If you're not in a rush, we recommend attending a classic Beijing acrobatics performance. The performers will showcase thrilling and graceful traditional Chinese arts through aerial flips, contortion, and balancing skills. After the show, we’ll return you to the meeting point, or arrange transport if you need to head to the city center or catch a flight or train.

Day2 Visit Tiananmen Square

In the morning, visit one of the world's largest city squares, where the vast and solemn space will leave you in awe. From here, you can admire iconic buildings like the Great Hall of the People and the National Museum. Don't miss the opportunity to take a photo in front of Tiananmen. Your guide will share insights into key historical events, deepening your understanding of Beijing's political and cultural significance.

In-depth Visit of the Forbidden City

Embark on a 600-year royal journey along the central axis, visiting key sites like the Meridian Gate, Hall of Supreme Harmony, Hall of Central Harmony & Hall of Preserving Harmony, the Hall of Heavenly Purity, and the Imperial Palace. Your guide will bring history to life with captivating stories, allowing you to rest and take photos while exploring the grandeur and intricacy of the world's largest ancient palace complex.

Visit Jingshan Park

Located just north of the Forbidden City, Jingshan Park offers breathtaking panoramic views of Beijing. This 57-acre park is famous for its ancient man-made hill, built with earth excavated from the surrounding city. Visitors can climb to the top for a stunning vista of the city and the iconic Forbidden City. With its rich history, tranquil atmosphere, and beautiful gardens, Jingshan Park is a perfect spot for both relaxation and exploration.

Visit Beijing Hutongs

Next, explore Beijing's traditional Hutongs (Courtyard neighborhoods), walking through narrow alleys to experience the lifestyle of old Beijing. Engage with local residents and immerse yourself in the authentic, down-to-earth culture of the city.

Day3 Mutianyu Great Wall (Including Cable Car)

After breakfast, your guide takes you to the Mutianyu Great Wall. Go up by cable car or chairlift for mountain views. Walk the stone path and watchtowers while learning the wall’s history. Some sections are steep, others gentle—great for photos. A one-hour lunch break. Descend by toboggan or cable car.

Visit Temple of Heaven

In the morning, your guide will lead you to the Temple of Heaven, a sacred imperial site. Stroll among ancient cypress trees while learning about royal rituals. Visit the Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests, Echo Wall, and Circular Mound Altar, and witness locals practicing tai chi and daily life.

Dinner | Peking Duck

After visiting the Forbidden City, enjoy a classic Beijing dinner-Peking duck.The golden, crispy duck skin and tender, juicy meat are meticulously prepared by the chef. Wrapped in thin pancakes and served with sweet bean sauce, scallions, and cucumber, each bite is a delightful experience. Your guide will also introduce the history and traditional way of eating this famous dish.

Day4 Visit The Summer Palace

After breakfast, head to the picturesque Summer Palace. Stroll along the shores of Kunming Lake, admire the painted long corridor, and take in the views of Longevity Hill. Experience the elegance and refinement of this ancient imperial summer retreat.

Visit Beijing Zoo

Beijing Zoo (founded 1906) is China's oldest public zoo. In 1955, it exhibited the first giant pandas ever seen in a zoo. It achieved world firsts in panda breeding: the first captiveborn cub (1963) and first artificial insemination birth (1978). Today, its Panda House is home to famous residents like Ya Ya, continuing a centuryold legacy of conservation.

Day5 Yonghe Lama Temple

Yonghe Temple (Lama Temple) –Beijing’s premier Tibetan Buddhist monastery. Known for its strong incense, golden splendor, fine Buddha statues, and beautiful architecture, it offers a deep insight into Tibetan Buddhist culture and customs.

Confucius Temple

Afterward, visit the Confucius Temple to gain a deeper understanding of Confucian culture and the ancient Chinese education system. As you walk through the serene courtyards and historic halls, your guide will introduce the life and philosophy of Confucius, as well as how his teachings shaped moral values, social order, and scholarly traditions in imperial China.

Imperial Academy

Continue your exploration of the traditional "Royal Academy" –the Hanlin Academy. Step into this ancient seat of supreme learning, where the atmosphere of scholarly dedication still lingers. Immerse yourself in the rigorous academic spirit that once shaped China’s finest minds, and gain a deeper appreciation of the imperial examination culture –a system that for centuries determined the fate of aspiring scholars and upheld the ideals of meritocracy in imperial China.

At the end of the tour, we will be pleased to arrange a comfortable transfer for you to the railway station or the airport.