Imperial Beijing: Forbidden City +Temple of Heaven +Roast Duck
Active
8h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Discover Beijing's imperial treasures with a private guide who brings the city's 3,000-year history to life. This isn't a rushed group tour—it's your day, your pace, exploring the landmarks and hidden corners that intrigue you most.
What Sets This Tour Apart:
1,Completely private—just you, your group, and your expert guide
Guides with deep historical knowledge and genuine passion for Beijing
2,Authentic Peking duck lunch at a beloved local restaurant
Flexible itinerary tailored to your interests
Your Day Includes:
1,Forbidden City's imperial halls and secret courtyards
2,Temple of Heaven where emperors communed with the gods
3,Nanluoguxiang Hutong's ancient alleyways and traditional homes
4,Award-winning roast duck lunch (the crispy, juicy kind locals crave)
Want to customize? Swap in the Summer Palace, Lama Temple, or other sites—this is your tour. (Great Wall visits available as an upgrade.)
Available options
Private tour price
Pickup included
What's included
Entrance fee to the Temple of Heaven
Professional English-speaking guide
Entrance fee to the Forbidden City
Exquisite Peking roast duck meal with drinks
Visit to Nanluoguxiang Hutong
Private transport in an air-conditioned vehicle
Convenient hotel pickup and drop-off
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Pass by
Begin your Beijing adventure with a seamless hotel pickup and head straight to the heart of China's imperial power—Tiananmen Square. Walk where history was made as your expert local guide brings the square's dramatic past to life.
This isn't just sightseeing—it's an insider's journey through the layers of Beijing's complex history. Your guide will share stories that go beyond the guidebooks, revealing the political intrigue, architectural secrets, and cultural significance that make this square unforgettable.
Whether you're a first-time visitor eager to understand modern China or a history buff seeking deeper context, this tour delivers the authentic Beijing experience you're looking for.
2
Stop 2
Step through the towering gates of the Forbidden City and enter the private world of China's emperors. For nearly 500 years, this vast palace complex was the beating heart of imperial power—off-limits to ordinary citizens, shrouded in mystery and ritual.
Your guide unlocks the stories behind the grand halls and hidden courtyards: where emperors held court, where concubines plotted in the shadows, and where dynasties rose and fell. Wander through the Palace Museum's extraordinary collection—imperial treasures, priceless artwork, and artifacts that survived centuries of turmoil.
From Ming Dynasty masterpieces to the intimate chambers where the last emperor lived, you'll discover why the Forbidden City remains one of the world's most captivating historical sites.
3
Stop 3
After the imperial grandeur of the Forbidden City, dive into the real Beijing—the ancient hutongs where locals have lived for over 700 years. Nanluoguxiang is your gateway to the city's soul, a maze of narrow alleyways lined with traditional courtyard homes, intricate doorways, and gray-brick walls that have witnessed centuries of daily life.
This isn't a museum—it's a living neighborhood. As you wander these lanes, you'll pass elderly residents chatting on doorsteps, catch the aroma of street food from hidden corners, and glimpse the authentic rhythm of Beijing life that survives amid the modern city's rush.
From imperial palaces to intimate alleyways, you'll experience the full spectrum of Beijing—monumental and personal, ancient and alive.
4
Stop 4
When hunger strikes, we'll take you to a local favorite where the real magic happens—crispy-skinned Peking duck roasted to perfection in traditional ovens. This is the duck Beijingers actually eat, not the tourist version.
Then venture to the Temple of Heaven, where Ming and Qing emperors performed sacred rituals to ensure good harvests. Walk the same marble pathways they once trod, marvel at the acoustical wonder of the Echo Wall, and witness the architectural genius of the Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests—built entirely without nails.
Your day concludes with a relaxing private transfer back to your hotel, leaving you with memories of Beijing's imperial past and vibrant present.
Important: The Forbidden City closes on Mondays. If you're booking for a Monday, we'll visit either the exquisite Summer Palace with its lakeside pavilions or the incense-filled Lama Temple, Beijing's most active Tibetan Buddhist monastery—both equally magnificent alternatives.
What's not included
Gratuities to tour guide and driver
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
ZH-CN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.6
40 reviews
5★
32
4★
2
3★
4
2★
0
1★
2
Tripadvisor
5.0
26 reviews
5★
26
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Important information
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Please be advised that the Forbidden City is closed on Mondays. Summer Palace or Lama temple will be substituted instead.
Passport name, passport number is required at time of booking for all participants, we need that to book the Forbidden City ticket beforehand
Make This Tour Yours. Already seen some of these sites or have other Beijing spots on your wish list? This itinerary is fully customizable. After booking, just tell us what you'd like to swap in—alternatives like the Summer Palace, Lama Temple, or Jingshan Park can be substituted at no extra cost, while sites farther out (like the Great Wall) incur additional fees due to extended travel distance.
About Beijing
Beijing, the capital of China, is a city of immense historical significance and modern dynamism. It's home to iconic landmarks, ancient palaces, and a vibrant contemporary culture that blends tradition with modernity. The city offers a unique mix of ancient history, cultural treasures, and modern advancements.
Top Attractions
The Great Wall of China
One of the most iconic landmarks in the world, the Great Wall of China stretches over 21,000 kilometers. The most accessible sections near Beijing are Badaling and Mutianyu.
Historical
Half day to full day
¥40-80 (depending on the section)
Forbidden City
The Forbidden City, also known as the Palace Museum, was the imperial palace during the Ming and Qing dynasties. It houses an extensive collection of artifacts and offers a glimpse into China's imperial past.
Historical
2-3 hours
¥60 (March-October), ¥40 (November-February)
Temple of Heaven
The Temple of Heaven is a complex of religious buildings where emperors of the Ming and Qing dynasties performed annual ceremonies of prayer to heaven for good harvests.
Historical
1-2 hours
¥15 (Temple area), ¥35 (Temple and park)
Summer Palace
The Summer Palace is a vast ensemble of lakes, gardens, and palaces. It served as a retreat for emperors to escape the summer heat and is known for its beautiful landscapes and architecture.
Historical
3-4 hours
¥30 (Park and palace area), ¥60 (Boat ride included)
Hutongs
Hutongs are traditional narrow alleys and residential neighborhoods that offer a glimpse into old Beijing's way of life. Exploring hutongs provides an authentic experience of local culture and history.
Cultural
Half day to full day
Free to explore, but consider paying for guided tours or Rickshaw rides
798 Art Zone
The 798 Art Zone is a contemporary art district located in a former military factory. It's home to numerous art galleries, studios, and cultural events, making it a hub for Beijing's art scene.
Cultural
1-2 hours
Free to explore, but some galleries may charge admission
Must-Try Local Dishes
Peking Duck
A iconic dish of Beijing, Peking Duck is roasted to perfection and served with thin pancakes, hoisin sauce, and scallions. The crispy skin and tender meat make it a must-try for any visitor.
Main Course
Contains meat (duck), gluten (pancakes and sauce)
Zhajiangmian (Fried Sauce Noodles)
A popular Beijing street food, Zhajiangmian consists of hand-pulled noodles topped with a rich, savory sauce made from fermented soybean paste and minced pork. It's often served with cucumber and bean sprouts.
Main Course
Contains meat (pork), gluten (noodles and sauce)
Jianbing (Savory Crepes)
A popular Beijing street food, Jianbing is a savory crepe made with a batter of wheat and mung bean flour, filled with egg, scallions, and hoisin sauce. It's crispy, delicious, and perfect for a quick breakfast on the go.
Breakfast
Contains eggs, gluten (batter and sauce)
Baozi (Steamed Buns)
Baozi are steamed buns filled with various ingredients, such as pork, beef, or vegetables. They are a popular street food and can be found in many markets and food stalls throughout Beijing.
Snack
Can be vegetarian or contain meat, depending on the filling; contains gluten (bun)
Popular Activities
Hiking the Great Wall
Rock climbing in the Huairou District
Mountain biking in the outskirts of Beijing
Boat rides on Kunming Lake at the Summer Palace
Tea ceremonies at traditional teahouses
Gardens and parks at the Temple of Heaven and Beihai Park
Exploring the Forbidden City and other imperial palaces
Visiting temples and religious sites
Best Time to Visit
September to October, April to May
These months offer the most pleasant weather with clear skies and comfortable temperatures, making it ideal for sightseeing. The city is vibrant with cultural festivals and outdoor activities.
15-25°C (59-77°F)
59-77°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Mandarin Chinese
- Widely spoken: English (in tourist areas and by younger generations)
- English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere
Currency
Chinese Yuan (CNY)
Time Zone
GMT+8 (China Standard Time)
Electricity
220VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe, but exercise caution in crowded areas and tourist spots
Beijing is generally a safe city for travelers, with low crime rates and a strong police presence. However, petty crimes such as pickpocketing and scams can occur, especially in crowded areas and tourist spots. Exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings, particularly at night and in less touristy areas.
Important Precautions:
- • Be cautious when using taxis, and insist on using the meter or agreeing on a price before starting the journey
- • Keep valuables secure and be aware of your surroundings in crowded areas and tourist spots
- • Be wary of strangers offering services or attractions at inflated prices, and only use licensed and reputable tour guides and operators
Getting there
By air
- Beijing Capital International Airport • 32 km (20 miles) northeast of city center
- Beijing Daxing International Airport • 46 km (29 miles) south of city center
By train
Beijing Railway Station, Beijing West Railway Station
By bus
Beijing Sihui Bus Station, Beijing Liuliqiao Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
The Beijing Subway is efficient, affordable, and widely used. It's the best way to navigate the city, especially during peak hours.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Didi Chuxing, Tencent Taxi
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Dongcheng
Xicheng
Chaoyang
Haidian
Shijingshan
Day trips
The Great Wall at Mutianyu
70 km (43 miles) northeast of Beijing • Full day
The Great Wall at Mutianyu is a less crowded and more scenic section of the Great Wall, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. It's a popular day trip from Beijing for those looking to experience the Great Wall without the large crowds.
The Great Wall at Jinshanling
130 km (81 miles) northeast of Beijing • Full day
The Great Wall at Jinshanling is a remote and less restored section of the Great Wall, offering a more authentic and adventurous experience. It's a popular day trip for those looking to explore the Great Wall's wild and rugged beauty.
The Great Wall at Simatai
120 km (75 miles) northeast of Beijing • Full day
The Great Wall at Simatai is a unique and well-preserved section of the Great Wall, known for its dramatic and picturesque landscape. It's a popular day trip for those looking to experience the Great Wall's beauty and history in a more intimate setting.
Festivals
Chinese New Year (Spring Festival) • January or February (varies by lunar calendar)
Lantern Festival • 15th day of the first lunar month (varies by year)
Qingming Festival (Tomb-Sweeping Day) • April 4th or 5th (varies by solar calendar)
Pro tips
- Use the official Beijing Subway app for route planning and real-time updates
- Carry a VPN to access restricted apps and websites, such as Google, Facebook, and Instagram
- Learn a few basic Mandarin phrases to enhance your experience and interact with locals
- Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the city's many attractions and neighborhoods
- Try local snacks and street food for an authentic and delicious culinary experience
Get Price
per person
Price varies by option
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Free cancellation available
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