How to Plan Your Beijing Layover Private Tour to Mutianyu Great Wall and Tiananmen and Forbidden City

Beijing is a fascinating city with a rich history and culture. If you are on a layover in Beijing, why not plan a private tour to make the most of your time in the city? This guide will take you through the steps of planning a Beijing layover private tour to Mutianyu Great Wall and Tiananmen and Forbidden City.

Step 1: Book a Private Tour

To start planning your Beijing layover private tour, you need to book a tour. There are several private tour companies that offer tours in and around Beijing, but one of the most highly recommended tours is the Beijing Layover Private Tour to Mutianyu Great Wall and Tiananmen and Forbidden City. This tour includes private transportation, a driver, and a professional guide. You will also be treated to a Chinese lunch, a cable car ride, and more. The tour lasts for approximately 9 hours and begins at 8:00 AM. You can book the tour through Viator website, just follow this link to book the tour here.

Step 2: Meeting and Pickup

The meeting and pickup point for the Beijing Layover Private Tour is the Capital Airport in Shunyi, Beijing. The driver will meet you at the airport at 8:00 AM for your day tour. Please make sure to provide your passport number and name ahead of time.

Step 3: Explore Beijing’s Top Attractions

Once you have met your driver and guide, you will embark on your adventure through Beijing’s top attractions.

Forbidden City-The Palace Museum

The first stop on your tour is the Forbidden City, also known as the Palace Museum. This palace complex was the imperial palace of the Ming and Qing dynasties and is now a UNESCO World Heritage site. You will spend approximately 2 hours exploring the palace complex, which features over 9,000 rooms with stunning architecture and art.

Tiananmen Square (Tiananmen Guangchang)

Next, you will visit Tiananmen Square, the world’s largest public square. This iconic location is home to many significant monuments, including the Monument to the People’s Heroes and the Mausoleum of Mao Zedong. You will spend approximately 30 minutes exploring the square.

Mutianyu Great Wall

Finally, you will travel to the Mutianyu section of the Great Wall of China. This section of the wall is one of the best-preserved and features some of the wall’s most beautiful and picturesque scenery. You will take a cable car ride to the top of the wall and spend approximately 2.5 hours exploring the wall, taking in the views, and learning about its history.

Step 4: Gratitude to the Guide and Driver

At the end of your tour, it is customary to thank your guide and driver for a job well done. You may consider tipping your guide and driver to show your appreciation for their services.

Step 5: Cancellation Policy

It is important to note that if you need to cancel or reschedule your tour, you can do so up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund. However, if you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time, you will not receive a refund.

Book Your Tour Now

By planning a Beijing layover private tour to Mutianyu Great Wall and Tiananmen and Forbidden City, you can make the most of your time in the city and experience some of Beijing’s top attractions in just one day. Make sure to follow these five simple steps to plan your tour and have a memorable experience in Beijing.

Frequently Asked Questions About Beijing

If you are planning a visit or are just curious about the capital city of China, Beijing, then you might have some questions that need answers. In this FAQ, we will try to cover the most commonly asked questions and provide as much information as we can.

1. What is Beijing famous for?

Beijing is famous for many things, including its rich history, cultural attractions, and modern development. Some of the key highlights include:

• The Great Wall of China, which is located just outside of Beijing
• The Forbidden City, which was the Chinese imperial palace for nearly 500 years
• The Temple of Heaven, which is a complex of religious buildings used for imperial ceremonies
• The Summer Palace, which is a beautiful park and palace complex that served as a summer retreat for emperors
• The National Stadium, also known as the “Bird’s Nest”, which was built for the 2008 Summer Olympics

2. What is the best time to visit Beijing?

The best time to visit Beijing is during the fall months (September to November) when the weather is mild and there are fewer tourists. Spring (March to May) is also a good time to visit as the weather is generally pleasant and there are many cultural festivals to enjoy. Summer (June to August) can be hot and crowded, while winter (December to February) can be very cold and dry.

3. What is the currency used in Beijing?

The currency used in Beijing is the Chinese yuan (CNY).

4. What language is spoken in Beijing?

The official language of Beijing is Mandarin Chinese. However, English is widely spoken in tourist areas and many hotels, restaurants, and shops have English signage.

5. What are some traditional Beijing dishes?

Beijing is known for its delicious cuisine, which is influenced by both northern and southern Chinese culinary traditions. Some traditional dishes to try include:

• Peking roast duck, which is served with thin pancakes, scallions, and hoisin sauce
• Zhajiangmian, which is a noodle dish with soybean paste, ground pork, and vegetables
• Hot pot, which is a soup-style dish where diners cook a selection of meats, vegetables, and noodles at the table
• Jiaozi, which are Chinese dumplings

6. What are some popular tourist attractions in Beijing?

Some of the most popular tourist attractions in Beijing include:

• The Great Wall of China
• The Forbidden City
• The Temple of Heaven
• The Summer Palace
• Tiananmen Square
• The National Museum of China

7. Is Beijing a safe place to visit?

Beijing is generally a safe place to visit, and the crime rate is low. However, visitors should take the usual precautions to protect their belongings and avoid areas that are known to be unsafe at night.

8. How do I get around in Beijing?

Beijing has an extensive public transportation system that includes buses, subways, and taxis. The subway system is particularly convenient and easy to use. Visitors can also hire bicycles or take a guided tour to see the major attractions.

9. What are some shopping areas in Beijing?

Beijing has a wide range of shopping areas, from high-end luxury boutiques to traditional street markets. Some popular shopping areas include:

• Wangfujing Street, which is known for its high-end stores and traditional food market
• Xidan Commercial Street, which is a bustling shopping area with many international brands
• The Silk Market, which is a large indoor market selling clothing, jewelry, and other souvenirs
• The Panjiayuan Antique Market, which is a popular destination for antique collectors

10. What is the weather like in Beijing?

Beijing has a continental climate, with hot, humid summers and cold, dry winters. Spring and fall are generally mild and pleasant, with occasional rain. Be sure to check the weather forecast before visiting, and pack accordingly.

11. What are some cultural customs I should be aware of in Beijing?

Beijing has a rich cultural heritage, and visitors should be respectful of local customs and traditions. Some things to keep in mind include:

• Removing your shoes before entering someone’s home
• Avoiding public displays of affection
• Respecting elders and authority figures
• Avoiding sensitive political topics

12. What are some emergency numbers in Beijing?

In case of an emergency, visitors to Beijing can call the following numbers:

• 110 – Police
• 120 – Ambulance
• 122 – Fire Department

13. Are there any visa requirements for visiting Beijing?

Yes, visitors to Beijing and China in general will need a visa unless they are from a country that is exempt. Visa requirements vary by country, so be sure to check the requirements before planning your trip.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Beijing

Beijing is an extraordinary city that attracts millions of tourists every year. An ancient city with a rich culture and history, it is home to some of the world’s most iconic landmarks and fascinating attractions. Here’s your ultimate guide to spending your time as a tourist in Beijing.

1. Visit the Great Wall of China

The Great Wall of China, one of the most iconic landmarks in the world, is located just outside of Beijing and is an absolute must-visit for any tourist. The wall spans over 13,000 miles and has several sections you can visit. The most popular section is the Badaling Great Wall, which is easily accessible and has been restored for visitors to walk on. For a more unique experience, consider visiting the Jinshanling or Mutianyu sections, where you can hike and admire the untouched scenery.

2. Explore the Forbidden City

The Forbidden City is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most magnificent examples of Chinese architecture. Built over 500 years ago, it was home to Emperors of the Ming and Qing dynasties and is filled with fascinating history and intriguing stories. Take a guided tour or explore on your own to see the grand halls, beautiful courtyards, and ancient treasures.

3. Marvel at the Temple of Heaven

The Temple of Heaven is an ancient religious complex and one of the most impressive examples of Chinese architecture. Built in the early 15th century, it was used by the Emperors to pray for a bountiful harvest. It features several buildings and a beautiful park, where locals practice tai chi and other traditional Chinese exercises. Explore the grounds and admire the intricate details of the complex.

4. Wander through the Summer Palace

The Summer Palace is a beautiful royal garden and one of the most popular attractions in Beijing. The palace was built in the 18th century and served as a summer retreat for the Qing Dynasty emperors. The garden is filled with stunning pavilions, lakes, and bridges, offering a serene and peaceful atmosphere where you can relax and take in the beautiful scenery.

5. Visit the Lama Temple

The Lama Temple, also known as the Yonghe Temple, is a beautiful Tibetan Buddhist temple in Beijing. Built in the 17th century, it’s the largest and most well-preserved lamasery in China. It features several halls, courtyards, and stunning statues of Buddha, making it a must-visit for anyone interested in Buddhism and Chinese culture.

6. Shop at the Silk Market

The Silk Market is a famous shopping district in Beijing, where you can find everything from silk scarves to electronics. Haggle with the vendors to get a good deal and take home some unique souvenirs. Be sure to bring cash and watch out for scams and fake products.

7. Eat Peking Duck

Peking Duck is a traditional Chinese dish that originated in Beijing and is known for its crispy skin and tender meat. There are several restaurants in Beijing that serve this delicious dish, but Quanjude and Da Dong are the most popular. Be sure to make a reservation in advance, as they tend to get crowded quickly.

Book Your Tour Now

Beijing is a city full of history, culture, and fascinating attractions. Whether you’re interested in ancient architecture or modern shopping districts, there’s something for everyone in this magnificent city. Follow this guide to make the most of your time in Beijing and create unforgettable memories.