Experience the charm of history
Designed by SHERRY from Gopagoda Travel
Author Recommendations
This curated Beijing journey is designed to take you through the very heart of Chinese imperial history before revealing the city's dynamic, multi-layered character.
The itinerary begins with the majestic core of ancient power: the Forbidden City, where emperors ruled for centuries. From there, the path leads to the Mutianyu Great Wall, a breathtaking manifestation of imperial might and engineering prowess, allowing you to walk along the same ramparts that once defended the empire. The spiritual dimension of this power is explored at the Temple of Heaven, where emperors performed sacred rites.
The journey then delves into the luxurious world of the Summer Palace, a testament to imperial aesthetics and leisure. Finally, the experience shifts to the intimate alleyways of Beijing's hutongs, offering a glimpse into traditional daily life, seamlessly connecting it to the city's modern landmarks. This deliberate contrast showcases Beijing's unique identity—a captivating blend where a profound historical legacy lives side-by-side with vibrant, contemporary energy. It's more than a tour; it's a narrative of power, faith, and enduring culture.
Experience the charm of history in Beijing
This Beijing journey immerses you in imperial history at the Forbidden City and Summer Palace, marvels at the Great Wall's grandeur, and explores the spiritual sanctuaries of the Temple of Heaven. Experience the vibrant blend of ancient hutongs and iconic modern Olympic landmarks.
Key Highlights
- From imperial palaces to the Great Wall, trace ancient grandeur.
- Discover spiritual serenity at Temple of Heaven.
- Witness the blend of old hutongs and modern Olympic landmarks.
2025-09-26 • Beijing
Day 1 · Beijing · Beijing
Welcome to the ancient East, to the capital of a nation with a profound civilization. What will your first impressions be upon landing? What are your expectations for the first stop on our tour?
Today, we begin our Beijing journey! Let's first step into the Forbidden City, that immense palace complex once home to China's supreme rulers, and appreciate the beauty of Chinese architecture. Then, we'll head to Jingshan Park to overlook the entire Forbidden City from above. After that, we'll take a leisurely stroll around Beihai and Shichahai, venturing into the hutongs to discover the authentic flavors of old Beijing.
Remember to bring your valuables and identification documents when we set off. Tian'anmen Rostrum, the Forbidden City, and Jingshan Park are already booked for you; simply present the QR code for entry. There will be quite a bit of walking today, so please wear comfortable shoes.
We have also arranged a tour guide for you at the Forbidden City. He will be waiting at the entrance at 11:00 AM and will contact you in advance. Should anything come up during the tour, feel free to contact your travel designer at any time.
Tiananmen Square
What to Expect
The symbolic heart of China — the world's largest public square. Stand before the vermillion Tiananmen Gate bearing the iconic portrait of Chairman Mao as the flag-raising ceremony begins at dawn.
Walking to The Forbidden City
After visiting the Tiananmen Gate Tower, we are going to the Forbidden City! Remember to pick up the items we stored before climbing the building. We can walk about 1km and take about 15 minutes to reach the entrance of the Forbidden City at the Meridian Gate.
The Palace Museum / Forbidden City
What to Expect
The world's largest palace complex, home to 24 emperors over 500 years. Wander through the Meridian Gate, the Gate of Supreme Harmony, and the three great ceremonial halls leading to the Inner Court.
Walking to Jingshan Park
After lunch, we walked from the restaurant to Jingshan Park, which is about 400 meters away and takes about 6 minutes to arrive. We entered through the east gate of Jingshan Park.
Jingshan Park
What to Expect
Climb to the Wanchun Pavilion at the summit for the most famous panoramic view of the Forbidden City's golden rooftops spreading below you across the entire imperial complex.
To Beihai Park
After visiting Jingshan Park, we can navigate and walk about 900 meters, taking about 15 minutes to reach Beihai Park. If you feel a bit tired from walking, you can also take a taxi directly to the destination, which is about 1km away and takes about 7 minutes to arrive. The estimated cost is 14 yuan.
Beihai Park
What to Expect
One of China's oldest and best-preserved imperial gardens. Enjoy a boat ride on the Beihai Lake and visit the White Dagoba, a Tibetan-style stupa built by Emperor Shunzhi in 1651.
Walking to Shichahai Scenic Area
Shichahai Park is adjacent to Beihai Park. As we stroll north, we can reach the Shichahai area. If we get tired of walking, we can sit on the seats or tea house in the park to rest.
Shichahai Scenic Area
What to Expect
Stroll the hutong alleyways surrounding the three interconnected lakes of Shichahai as sunset falls. Rickshaw rides, local street food, and the Silver Ingot Bridge make for a magical evening.
2025-09-27 • Beijing
Day 2 · Beijing · Beijing
Did you sleep well last night? We certainly covered a lot of ground yesterday, and all that beautiful scenery must have guaranteed a good night's rest! Now, re-energized, we're off to see the magnificent Great Wall.
A driver will take us around today, so you can even relax a bit more in the car. Please have your ID documents ready. The driver, Mr. Zhang (Phone: 13*********), will be waiting in the hotel lobby at 08:30. If the driver is late, please contact your travel designer immediately.
The chartered car fee for 08:30 to 17:00 has been paid, covering tolls and parking. There are no additional fees to pay the driver today. Should the driver request any payment, please politely decline and inform your travel designer immediately. If you anticipate needing the car beyond 17:00, please also let your travel designer know beforehand to confirm any extra charges. For your safety, please avoid making private arrangements with the driver.
Mutianyu Great Wall
What to Expect
The most scenic and well-restored section of the Great Wall, stretching across forested hills north of Beijing. Take the cable car up and choose between walking the wall or taking the thrilling toboggan ride back down.
Take Car to Summer Palace
After having lunch under the Great Wall at Mutianyu, we are going back to the city to visit the Summer Palace. The journey takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes, and the driver will take us for about 72km. It's been a tough morning to play, so why not take a break in the car.
Summer Palace
What to Expect
China's grandest imperial garden — a masterpiece of landscape design. Stroll the Long Corridor's painted galleries, take a boat across Kunming Lake, and admire the Marble Boat at the northern shore.
Take Car to Bird's Nest
As night falls, the city's nighttime lighting will gradually turn on. We will head to the Bird's Nest and enjoy both the daytime and nighttime scenery in the evening. The journey is about 12km and is expected to take about 25 minutes.
Bird's Nest (National Stadium)
What to Expect
Herzog & de Meuron's iconic 2008 Olympic main stadium, nicknamed the Bird's Nest for its interwoven steel lattice structure. Spectacular at dusk as the floodlights begin to illuminate the frame.
Walking to Water Cube
You must have taken many beautiful photos at the Bird's Nest, right? We are now going to the Water Cube to continue taking beautiful photos. After visiting the Bird's Nest, walk about 750 meters and it takes about 12 minutes to reach the entrance of the Water Cube.
Water Cube (National Swimming Center)
What to Expect
The ethereal blue bubble-clad aquatics centre glows like a softly lit lantern at night — a perfect closing image of the Olympic Park. The building's ETFE cushion facade creates a surreal, otherworldly atmosphere after dark.
2025-09-28 • Beijing
Day 3 · Beijing · Beijing
Today's schedule is generally more relaxed. We can sleep in a bit and start the day at a slower pace, soaking in the authentic charm of old Beijing. After breakfast, we'll first visit the Temple of Heaven, then explore the Lama Temple (Yonghegong), and finally stroll through Nanluoguxiang Alley to look for and select souvenirs or gifts, bringing a touch of Beijing back to family and friends.
As we are visiting sites of religious significance today, appropriate attire is recommended; please avoid wearing revealing clothing.
We have already reserved tickets for the Temple of Heaven and Yonghe Temple for you in advance. Please bring your documents and let's go.
Temple of Heaven Park
What to Expect
The supreme example of Ming imperial ceremonial architecture. The Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests — a triple-gabled circular pavilion of dark blue tiles — is one of China's most recognisable and photographed icons.
Yonghe Palace
What to Expect
Beijing's most famous Tibetan Buddhist temple, housing a breathtaking 18-metre Maitreya Buddha carved from a single white sandalwood trunk. The incense smoke, chanting monks, and ornate halls create an unforgettable atmosphere.
Nanluogu Lane
What to Expect
An 800-year-old hutong in the heart of Beijing's old city, transformed into a lively pedestrian street of indie boutiques, artisan cafés, vintage shops, and the city's best range of local snack foods.
What Our Clients Say About Us
3 months ago
A really nice trip
A really nice trip. Well organised and a lovely driver. We travelled with 2 kids and were touched by the kindness of everyone!
Clara Gerhardt, February 15, 2026
4 months ago
Memorable Journey
We planned our trip for three months and at the end, it was just perfect. Our contact Miffy did not get tired to personalize and adjust the tour several times, trying to meet our interests and expectations. She did an awesome job! Our local driver Liu was a true blessing in many situations. Together with Yoyo, our lovely guide, we had a great team that made this unforgettable journey possible. Thank you so much for your efforts!
Chris Sandtmann, January 3, 2026
4 months ago
Highly recommend
Highly recommend! Smart communication and professional approach. Sherry helped me to organize a part of my tour of Yunnan and everything was fine 🙂
grazia didonna, December 24, 2025
5 months ago
Once in a lifetime
Beijing completely exceeded my expectations. The itinerary was perfectly balanced — enough time at each major site without feeling rushed. Our guide at the Forbidden City was outstanding. Already planning a return trip.
Michael T., November 18, 2025
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