4 Days Beijing UNESCO World Heritage Sites Walking Tour

Ni Hao, welcome to Beijing, the iconic city as well as the capital of China!

You will be met by your local tour guide at the arrival hall of your arrival airport or train station, then be escorted to check in to your hotel in downtown by a private comfortable vehicle. The rest of today is on your own to relax. If you want to explore nearby, feel free to get some practical suggestions from your tour guide.

Arrival Ideas: At present, there are many international and domestic flights to Beijing. Besides, you can take a high speed train to this capital city from Shanghai (4.5-6 hrs), Xian (4-6 hrs), Guangzhou (7.5-8 hrs), Chengdu (7.5-10 hrs), Chongqing (7-9 hrs), Hong Kong (8 hrs), etc.

Today, you will have a full day to walk along the Beijing's Central Axis, which is an ensemble of building complexes and archeological sites running north-south through the heart of the old city of Beijing and governing the overall layout of the capital, comprised by 15 components. First, your Beijing central axis city walk tour will start from Zhengyangmen Gate, which was a city gate complex for defensive purposes and with urban management functions during the Ming and Qing dynasties. Then take a brief visit to Tiananmen Square. The Tiananmen Square building complex carries on the traditional capital city planning pattern of rigid symmetry, which gives you an experience of the central axis of modern Beijing’s unique charm. Tiananmen Gate on the northern square was the site where the Chairman Mao announced the establishment of the People's Republic of China. Step through Upright Gate and into the heart of imperial China - Forbidden City. It was the imperial palace for 24 emperors of Ming and Qing dynasties and stands as a marvel of architectural brilliance and historical grandeur. Along the central axis from south to north to admire the intricate details from the dazzling yellow-glazed tile roofs to the refined white marble bases and envision the lives of emperors, empresses, and their courtiers.

After Forbidden City tour, take a short visit to the near Jingshan Park. It is the best viewpoint to appreciate the landscape both north and south sections of Beijing Central Axis, where you can take a clear panoramic view of the Forbidden City. Then keep walking to Wanning Bridge, which is the oldest bridge on Beijing Central Axis with its location and function have remained unchanged for over seven centuries. At last, you will get to the northern end of Beijing's Central Axis - Bell and Drum Towers, where you can experience the long-standing Chinese tradition of timekeeping and admire the magnificent scenery at the north section of the central axis.

Optional Night Activities: 1) Watch a wonderful acrobatic performance at the Chaoyang Theater. 2) Enjoy the classic Chinese art performance of Beijing Opera at Liyuan Theater.

After breakfast, you will be picked up at your hotel and get to the outskirts of Beijing to experience the enchanting Summer Palace. Once the exclusive summer retreat of the imperial family, this site is renowned as China's largest and most well-preserved royal garden. Discover a stunning array of ancient pavilions, grand mansions, serene temples, and elegant bridges. The Long Corridor, stretching along the peaceful shores of Kunming Lake, is adorned with thousands of vibrant paintings that tell captivating stories of history and mythology.

After the Summer Palace visit, drive approximately 70 km (about 1.5 hours) to the iconic Mutianyu Great Wall, a less-crowded but beautiful section of this World Wonder. Begin your adventure by ascending the wall via an enclosed cable car, reaching No. 14 Watchtower, your starting point for an incredible experience. Hike westward along the wall, passing through towering watchtowers and capturing breathtaking views. The trail is moderate, suitable for most fitness levels, including families with children. For the more adventurous, challenge yourself by climbing the Great Man Slope to No. 20 Watchtower, the highest point, offering an even more spectacular vista. After exploring the wonderful sightseeing, hike back to No. 14 Watchtower and descend by the enclosed cable car.

Optional Toboggan Experience: For an extra thrill at Mutianyu, consider taking the toboggan ride or the chairlift cable car to descend the Great Wall, both available at No. 6 Watchtower. Note that there might be a queue, especially during peak seasons like Chinese holidays.

Next, drive back to Beijing City and take a short stop at the Beijing Olympic Village to view its famous Bird’s Nest and Water Cube from the outside.

At for dinner, we prepare the flavorful dish of Peking Roast Duck or Hot Pot, Mongolian Style for you. You can choose as you wish. If you want to experience other Chinese cuisine, that's totally ok. All you have to do is telling your guide and he/she will arrange the dinner according to your request.

After the dinner, back to your hotel.

After breakfast, drive to another brilliant UNESCO World Heritage Site - Temple of Heaven, a historic site once used by emperors for sacrificial ceremonies. As you explore this grand complex of buildings and gardens, you'll discover the rituals and beliefs of the Ming and Qing emperors, who sought divine blessings for good harvests through intricate ceremonies. Beyond its historical importance, you'll observe vibrant local life, with residents practicing Tai Chi, dancing, and engaging in various exercises among the lush pine woods.

Then, you will experience the Beijing Hutongs - narrow alleys lined with historic quadrangle dwellings. This journey will immerse you in the traditional Beijing lifestyle, where you can explore charming antique shops, boutique stores, and witness the city's historical evolution. You'll also visit a local family's home in the Hutongs, offering a glimpse into everyday life.

Your 4-day Beijing UNESCO World Heritage Sites Walking Tour is now about to end. Your guide and private driver will escort you to your hotel or to catch your flight/train to the next destination.