How to Plan Your Private Half Day Tour to Tiananmen Square, Forbidden City, and Temple of Heaven in Beijing

Beijing, the cultural heart of China and a city where ancient history blends with modernity, is one of the world’s most visited tourist destinations. It is home to several UNESCO World Heritage sites and boasts some of the most iconic landmarks in Chinese history. Among them are the Tiananmen Square, the Forbidden City, and the Temple of Heaven. If you are planning a trip to Beijing, then you should not miss out on these attractions. Here is a guide on how to plan your private half-day tour to these three sights.

Overview of the tour

This private half-day tour includes a guide and driver and will take you to three of Beijing’s most iconic attractions. The tour lasts approximately five hours, and you’ll have the opportunity to explore the following sights: – Tiananmen Square(Tiananmen Guangchang): The largest public square in the world, located in the center of Beijing, where you can witness the country’s political, cultural, and historical milestones. – The Forbidden City (a.k.a. Palace Museum): A UNESCO World Heritage site where emperors of the Ming and Qing dynasties lived and ruled for over 500 years. The Forbidden City offers a glimpse into China’s imperial past and features over 9,000 rooms. – The Temple of Heaven: Another UNESCO World Heritage site where emperors once prayed to the gods and held annual ceremonies to ensure good harvests. The Temple of Heaven is a beautiful complex of buildings and gardens with stunning architectural features.

Highlights of the tour

With this private tour, you’ll have a knowledgeable guide at your service who will take you through each sight, providing you with historical commentary and fascinating insights into the sights’ history and the culture of China. Some of the tour’s highlights include: – Exploring Tiananmen Square and learning about the history and significance of this important landmark. The guide will show you some of the key monuments in the square, including the Monument to the People’s Heroes and the Mausoleum of Mao Zedong. – Visiting the Forbidden City and walking through the gates that once only the emperors and their families could enter. The guide will take you through the palace’s different sections, including the Hall of Supreme Harmony, the Palace of Heavenly Purity, and the Inner and Outer Court. – Discovering the beautiful Temple of Heaven, including its beautiful gardens, circular hall, and the famous Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests. The guide will take you through the temple’s history and the importance of its architecture in Chinese culture.

Booking the tour

To book this private half-day tour, you can visit the Viator website and click on the “Book Now” button. The tour includes pickup and drop-off from hotels within Beijing’s 4th Ring Road, entrance tickets to the attractions, and an experienced guide and driver. The tour does not include lunch, personal expenses, or gratuities. The total cost is reasonable and can be paid online.

Book Your Tour Now

A trip to Beijing would not be complete without visiting Tiananmen Square, the Forbidden City, and the Temple of Heaven. These landmarks are a must-see for anyone interested in Chinese history and culture. A private half-day tour to these sights ensures personalized service and takes away the hassle of navigating and finding the best spots to see. So, book your tour today and explore Beijing’s most significant attractions with a local guide!

Frequently Asked Questions About Beijing

Beijing, the political and cultural capital of China, attracts millions of visitors every year. As you plan your trip to Beijing, you might have a few questions in your mind. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about Beijing, answered:

1. What is the best time of the year to visit Beijing?

The best time to visit Beijing is during the months of March to May and September to November when the weather is pleasant with mild temperatures and the city is not overcrowded with tourists. Avoid visiting Beijing during the summer months of June to August when the weather is hot and humid, and the city is crowded with both locals and tourists.

2. How do I get to Beijing from the airport?

Beijing has two International airports – Beijing Capital International Airport and Beijing Daxing International Airport. Both airports are well-connected to the city by taxis, buses, and the subway. The most convenient way to get to Beijing from the airport is by taxi or the airport express train. The airport express train connects both airports to different parts of the city.

3. What are the must-see attractions in Beijing?

Beijing has a rich cultural and historical heritage, with a plethora of must-see attractions. The top must-see attractions in Beijing are:

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

4. How can I visit the Great Wall of China from Beijing?

The Great Wall of China is located about 70 km from Beijing, and there are several ways to visit the Great Wall:

• Join a group tour – Group tours are the most convenient and cost-effective way to visit the Great Wall. You can choose from a variety of tour packages that include different sections of the Great Wall.
• Hire a private car – Hiring a private car with a driver is a convenient way to visit the Great Wall at your own pace.
• Take public transportation – You can take a bus or a train from Beijing to the Great Wall, but this option can be more challenging if you don’t speak Chinese.

5. What is the official language spoken in Beijing?

The official language spoken in Beijing is Mandarin, which is a dialect of the Chinese language. However, many local people also speak English or other foreign languages, especially in the tourist areas.

6. What is the currency used in Beijing?

The currency used in Beijing is the Chinese Yuan (CNY). You can easily exchange your currency into Yuan at the airport or at the numerous exchange shops in the city.

7. What are the best places to shop in Beijing?

Beijing is known for its shopping culture, and there are plenty of places to shop in the city. The best places to shop in Beijing are:

• The Silk Market – for silk products, pearls, and souvenirs
• The Yaxiu Market – for clothing, shoes, and accessories
• The Panjiayuan Antique Market – for antique items, traditional handicrafts, and artworks
• The Sanlitun Village – for high-end fashion and luxury brands

8. What are the local delicacies in Beijing?

Beijing is known for its delicious local cuisine, which includes both meat and vegetarian dishes. Some of the local delicacies in Beijing are:

• Peking Duck – roasted duck served with pancakes, spring onions, and sweet bean sauce. This is the most famous dish in Beijing.
• Jianbing – a traditional Chinese breakfast crepe filled with egg, chili sauce, crispy fried wontons, and scallions.
• Hot Pot – a Chinese stew served with sliced meat, vegetables, and noodles.
• Lamb Skewers – skewered lamb meat seasoned with hot spices and grilled over charcoal.

9. What are the best transportation options in Beijing?

Beijing has a well-connected transportation system, and you can use different modes of transportation to get around the city. The best transportation options in Beijing are:

• The subway – Beijing has an extensive subway system that connects different parts of the city.
• Taxis – Taxis are easily available in Beijing and are a convenient option for short distances.
• Buses – Beijing has a vast network of buses that connect different parts of the city.
• Bicycle rentals – You can rent a bike to explore the city at your own pace. Beijing has several bike rental stations throughout the city.

10. What are some etiquette rules to follow in Beijing?

Beijing has its own culture and etiquette, and it’s always better to follow these rules to avoid any misunderstandings:

• Respect the local customs and traditions.
• Keep your voice low and avoid making noise in public places.
• Don’t stare at people and avoid touching or patting people on the head.
• Use chopsticks while eating and don’t use them to point at people or things.
• Don’t forget to remove your shoes while entering someone’s home.

With these FAQs answered, you are ready to plan your trip to Beijing with confidence. Enjoy your visit to this remarkable city and take home some unforgettable memories of China’s rich cultural heritage.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Beijing

As the capital of China, Beijing is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking the perfect blend of old and new in a single city. From the ancient imperial landmarks to the modern bustling city life, there are so many things to see and do in Beijing. In this guide, we will provide you with some tips on how to spend your time as a tourist in Beijing.

1. Visit the Great Wall of China

One of the Seven Wonders of the World, the Great Wall of China is definitely a must-see attraction when you’re in Beijing. The wall stretches for over 5,500 miles across China and was initially built during the Ming dynasty as a defense against invading forces. You can choose to visit the Great Wall at different points from the most popular, Mutianyu, to the less crowded but equally impressive Jiankou or Jinshanling sections. Whichever section you choose, you’ll be able to enjoy a breath-taking view of the wall snaking across the landscape.

2. Explore the Forbidden City

The Forbidden City was the imperial palace during the Ming and Qing dynasties and remains one of the most impressive examples of Chinese architecture. The palace complex covers an area of 72 hectares and includes 980 buildings. The impressive red and gold decoration, coupled with stunning halls and palaces, will leave you awestruck. Don’t forget to visit the Imperial Garden and appreciate its old-fashioned beauty.

3. Visit the Temple of Heaven Park

Located in Southern Beijing, the Temple of Heaven was once used by emperors to perform religious rituals to seek good harvests. Today, it is a national treasure and World Heritage site where you can stroll around the well-manicured gardens and admire the stunning architecture. The round temple, in particular, is an impressive example of Chinese architecture.

4. Take a stroll through Hutongs

Hutongs are Beijing’s old-style street communities that have retained their traditional layout and architecture. Take a leisurely walk down the winding alleyways and maze-like street network, where you’ll come across impressive courtyards, local markets, and people’s homes. You can also opt to take a bike tour or a rickshaw tour to explore the area.

5. Visit the Summer Palace

The Summer Palace is China’s largest imperial garden. It was once a haven for the royals to escape the summer heat and served as a place where kings and queens could unwind and relax. The colorful palaces and pavilions, the stunningly designed gardens, and the vast expanse of the picturesque lake all contribute to making the Summer Palace a must-visit destination.

6. Sample the local cuisine

The cuisine of Beijing flavorfully represents the food of Northern China. You cannot leave the city without trying some of the local dishes. Peking roast duck is the most famous dish representing Beijing’s culinary culture, but you may also want to try the classic “zhajiangmian” (hand-pulled noodles in bean sauce), “jiaozi” (dumplings), and “roujiamo” (Chinese hamburgers).

7. Watch a Chinese Opera Performance

Beijing Opera is the quintessential Chinese performance that features singing, acting, acrobatics, and dance. The traditional opera is performed in Mandarin, but the use of visual and symbolic language allows even non-speakers of Chinese to enjoy the show. You can catch a performance at the Liyuan Theatre, Huguang Guild Hall, or Chang’an Grand Theatre.

Book Your Tour Now

Beijing is an exciting and vibrant city with a diverse range of attractions that cater to different interests. You can easily spend several days exploring the different sites and neighborhoods, immersing in the culture, savoring the local cuisine, soaking up the history, and creating unforgettable memories. Be sure to get a guide or translator, as English may not be well-understood by locals. Follow the tips we’ve provided above, and you are sure to experience the best that Beijing has to offer!