Journey at a glance
- Day 1
- Day 2
- Day 3
- Day 4
Like New York in the ’20s, Beijing is set to define the 21st century. Explore its palaces and temples, discover hidden courtyard homes alongside modern architectural wonders, get to grips with calligraphy and contemporary art, dine on divine duck, and conquer China’s Ming-era Great Wall.
About this Journey
Beijing is China’s past, present, and future. The country’s capital is a testament to China’s illustrious imperial past, its unforeseen rapid development, and a future that holds incredible potential. Proud historical palaces rub shoulders with luxurious shopping malls and construction sites can be found on nearly every street corner. Beijing has changed beyond recognition in the 21st century, but the city still retains remnants of its past in the form of ancient hutong alleys, traditional courtyard residences, and imperial wonders. This five-day trip will show you the best of the figurative heart of the Middle Kingdom that is Beijing.
Tour Highlights
- Exploring Beijing’s imperial legacy, from the towering walls of the Forbidden City to a tranquil tai chi ritual at the Temple of Heaven
- Sitting on top of the Great Wall with a majestic view of one of the wonders of the world winding its way off into the distance
- Wandering through Beijing’s hutongs, where tradition, street snacks, and quiet alleyway stories await around every corner
YOUR JOURNEY
Route Map
Select a route section to explore the map. Tap a stop for its location or use the directions link for the next leg. Flights, trains, cruises and hiking arrangements follow your itinerary.
Itinerary
Day 1
As you arrive, your local guide will be waiting to welcome you in the arrival hall. After meeting your new host, take off in your private vehicle to check into your hotel.
Day 2
Gaze across Tiananmen Square • Enter the Forbidden City, where emperors ruled for five hundred years • Hike up Jingshan and take in a commanding view over the Forbidden City • Get lost in Beijing’s hutongs and visit a cricket-fighting master • Wander through the popular imperial neighborhoods around Houhai Lake and try some of Beijing’s unusual local snacks • Savor a Peking duck dinner in one of Beijing’s oldest kaoya restaurants.
Day 3
Drive out of the city to Mutianyu, a beautifully restored section of the Great Wall. • Here you will hike along the wall and gaze in awe at Ming-era watchtowers and fortresses snaking across verdant hills • Pop a bottle of champagne on top of a Great Wall watchtower • Delve into the heart of Beijing’s contemporary art scene at the 798 Art District.
Day 4
Start the day practicing taiji (tai chi) with a master in the Temple of Heaven. • Discover the grounds of the Temple of Heaven • Depart Beijing.
Recommended Hotels



Rosewood Beijing
5 starThe first of the brand in China, Rosewood Beijing presents contemporary, residential-style surroundings that are warm, refined, and serene with nods to traditional Chinese culture.
The Peninsula Beijing
Luxury BoutiqueThe only all-suite hotel in the capital, The Peninsula Beijing sits a short stroll from Tiananmen Square, the Forbidden City, and the bustling Wangfujing shopping street.
Mandarin Oriental Wangfujing
5 starOnly a 15-minute walk from the must-see Forbidden City and Tiananmen Square, the Mandarin Oriental is a luxurious retreat in the heart of Beijing.
Photos



Photos Old Beijing The Temple of Heaven Modern Beijing
Details
What’s Included
- Services of an English-speaking local English-speaking guide
- Accommodation based on double occupancy with breakfasts included
- All overland transfers with private chauffeur and in-transport refreshments
- Private chauffeur service to and from airport at start and end of your trip
- All admission fees and activity expenses, as noted in the itinerary
- Meals as noted in the itinerary with complimentary drinking water
What’s Excluded
- International and domestic flights, domestic trains, plus relevant taxes
- Chinese tourist visa, which is required for most foreign passport holders
- Travel and medical insurance
- Meals, apart from those included in the itinerary, and alcohol
- Expenses of a personal nature
- Excursions and activities not included in the itinerary
- Discretionary gratuities for guides and drivers
TAILOR-MADE TRAVEL
Request This Tour
Tell us your preferred dates, group size, and interests. We will prepare a personal proposal for your China journey.
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