Beijing Private Day Tour: Tiananmen, Forbidden City, Temple of Heaven & Houhai/Hutongs

Your private guide will meet you at your hotel and accompany you to Tiananmen Square, the world's largest urban square. As an emblem of modern China, it's home to the Monument to the People's Heroes and the Great Hall of the People—sites steeped in historical weight and national pride, waiting for you to explore.

From there, you'll walk north to the Forbidden City, the imperial palace of the Ming and Qing dynasties. Inside, a vast array of ancient Chinese art and cultural relics awaits, and as you follow the central axis, you'll pass by grand structures like the Taihe Hall—the most magnificent of them all, where emperors once presided over important ceremonies. After touring the Forbidden City, you'll head to a local restaurant handpicked by your guide to savor a delicious lunch featuring authentic Beijing flavors.

Next, you'll drive to the Temple of Heaven, an ancient architectural gem. In imperial times, emperors came here to offer sacrifices and pray for bountiful harvests. Following that, you'll visit Hongqiao Pearl Market—a lively hub brimming with all sorts of goods, from traditional handicrafts to pearls. Feel free to bargain with vendors and pick out one-of-a-kind souvenirs to take home.

In the Houhai area, you'll stroll along the lakeshore, soaking in the scenic beauty and relaxed vibe. Nearby stands the Drum Tower, a well-preserved ancient building. Once used to tell time in old Beijing, it now stands as a testament to the city's long history. You can also wander through the surrounding hutongs—narrow alleys where local residents live—to experience the authentic charm of old Beijing. Maybe even stop by a local teahouse for a cup of tea to fully immerse yourself.

To wrap up the day, your guide will accompany you back to the hotel, bringing this wonderful one-day tour to a satisfying close.

B: Excluded, L: Included, D: Excluded