Summer Palace and Art Zone with Hutong Beijing Private Tour

What's included

What you'll see and do

1. Summer Palace

   Your tour guide will meet you at the lobby of your hotel at 09:00 a.m.. Then, we will transfer to Summer Palace and start Beijing private tour. The Summer Palace is the largest and best-preserved of the surviving imperial garden, rich in history and culture. Once a summer retreat for emperors, this 716-acre park is still a retreat for tourist, who can relax here or stroll around ancient pavilions, mansions, temples, bridges and huge lake, stopping occasionally at a shop or tea-house. Much-loved summer retreat of the Imperial families, the lovely landscaped gardens, halls, pavilions and corridors are set around the lake and rivers in natural harmony. Long Corridor at the Summer Palace The paths beside the lake lead you under shady trees, or along the roofed colonnade known as the Long Corridor, with its magnificently painted ceilings. Bridges, boats, willows, lotus flowers, and other attractive landscaping make this a pleasant place to soak up the atmosphere and in the views. Then, we will stroll around Beijing Olympic Park and admire the facade of Niaochao National Stadium and Water Cube.

   120 minutes here · Admission included

2. Olympic Park

   Beijing Olympic Park, also known as the Olympic Green. Beijing Olympic Park is where the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games and Paralympics took place. It also will be where the 2022 Winter Olympics takes place. Afterward, it was transformed into a comprehensive multifunctional activity center for the public. It contains the main venues used during the 2008 Summer Olympic Games and Paralympic Games, such as the Bird’s Nest and the Water Cube. You will be overwhelmed by the architecture of these two magnificent buildings.

   60 minutes here

3. Bird's Nest National Stadium

   The Beijing National Stadium, more commonly referred to as the Bird’s Nest, was built for the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games at a cost of $423 million. Since the Olympics and all its fanfare, the stadium has become a major landmark and tourist attraction, as well as a venue for both international and domestic sporting competitions. Though relatively new to the Beijing landscape, the National Stadium has become a must-see attraction.

   Pass by without stopping

4. Water Cube

   Not far from the Bird's Nest, there is the National Aquatics Center, also known as Water Cube. Its creative design concept is originated from the arrangement pattern of cells and natural structure of soap bubbles. The huge square box was produced by combining modern technologies with traditional Chinese culture. In the past, Chinese ancestors believed that the sky is round while the earth is square, and that is the way nature keeps harmonious. The square Water Cube together with the round Bird's Nest, embody and interpret this idea very well. Then, we will enjoy local traditional food for lunch(Vegetarian diet, Beijing Duck and Sichuan Cuisine are available). After lunch, we will visit a new landmarks of Beijing Urban Culture - 798 Art Zone.

   Pass by without stopping

5. 798 Art Zone

   The 798 Art Zone is named after a factory which was built in 1950s. It is famous for its unique art exhibition and special creation workshop. Now the 798 Art Zone has become one of the new landmarks of Beijing Urban Culture. Walking in the 798 Art Zone, visitors can feel the contrast of the present with the past. On one side are the mottled redbrick walls with slogans of different ages; on another side are the scattered orderly industrial plants and crisscross pipelines. Uniformed workers and fashion visitors on the street form unique scenery. History and reality, industry and the arts perfectly merge together there. Then, we will transfer to Jingshan Park, climb the man-made hill and and gaze over the beautifully lit-up Forbidden City and other landmarks.

   90 minutes here

6. Jingshan Park

   Jingshan Park is superbly landscaped with hills to ascend by steps, clear lakes and dignified ancient buildings. It used to be one of the ancient imperial gardens in Beijing, and now has developed as a peaceful public park. Vigorous cypresses are planted widely in the park, creating a quiet and solemn atmosphere with the golden-glazed ancient pavilions. Because of close to north of the Forbidden City, Jingshan Park is the best place for a bird's eye view of the Forbidden City and central Beijing.

   60 minutes here · Admission included

7. Back Lakes (Hou Hai)

   Houhai, which literally means "Back Sea", is a large artificial lake in northern downtown Beijing. There were many wine shops, workshops, and opera stages in ancient times. Nowadays, it is open to all. The area is dotted with bars, cafes, tea houses and restaurants, and is quite popular among foreign visitors and local young people. In addition, the neighboring Hutongs and courtyards of former court officials and celebrities are worth a visit. We will stroll along Lotus Lane in the Back Lakes (Houhai) area, see its night-time bars and lake waters, taste some local traditional snacks and take in the historical Yandaixiejie Hutong and Nanluoguxiang Hutong.

   30 minutes here

8. Yandai Xie Street

   Know as Yandai Xiejie in Chinese, the Yandaixie Street is one of the oldest hutongs in Beijing. Located in the Xicheng District, it is close to the Shichahai which are famous attractions in Beijing. Since the olden days, Yandaixiejie Street has been one of the most flourishing commercial areas in Beijing. The stores are closely packed along the street and a wide variety of souvenirs with Beijing characteristics can be found there.

   30 minutes here

9. Nanluoguxiang

   Nanluoguxiang Hutong is known for its authentic Beijing atmosphere. The age-old siheyuans, archways, wall carvings, and former residences of socialites can be found there. Today there has been an unprecedented fusion of East and West in Nanluoguxiang Hutong, where new pubs and restaurants have given it an urban appearance. Afterwards, enjoy comfortable transfer back to your hotel, Wrap your memories and say good-bye in your hotel.

   30 minutes here · Admission included

Where it starts and ends

Before you book

Cancellation

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Languages

cmn, en

Ticket

Mobile Only

Runs on

Every day

Group size

Up to 15 travelers per booking

Operated by

MoreFunAsia Beijing Tours

Know before you go

• Wheelchair accessible
• Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
• Service animals allowed
• Specialized infant seats are available
• Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Photos