This day tour offers a well-rounded, immersive journey into Beijing’s imperial past, combining history, culture, architecture, and scenery—all within one unforgettable day.
The Forbidden City, located in the heart of Beijing, is one of the most iconic landmarks in China and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Built between 1406 and 1420 during the Ming Dynasty, it served as the imperial palace for 24 emperors of the Ming and Qing dynasties for nearly 500 years. Enclosed by a massive wall and moat, the Forbidden City covers over 180 acres and consists of more than 900 buildings. It was called the "Forbidden" City because access was strictly limited — only royalty, nobles, and selected officials were allowed inside. Today, it is known as the Palace Museum, showcasing imperial architecture, ancient artifacts, and cultural treasures. The Forbidden City stands as a symbol of China’s rich history, traditional Chinese palatial design, and imperial power.
The Temple of Heaven, located in Beijing, is a magnificent complex of religious buildings that was used by emperors of the Ming and Qing dynasties to pray for good harvests and offer sacrifices to Heaven. Built in 1420, it is a masterpiece of ancient Chinese architecture and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The most iconic structure is the Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests, a stunning circular wooden building with no nails, set atop a triple-tiered marble platform. The entire complex reflects ancient Chinese cosmology, with symbolic design representing the harmony between heaven and earth. Surrounded by peaceful gardens and pine woods, the Temple of Heaven is not only a historical site but also a cultural park where locals practice tai chi, music, and traditional activities. It remains a symbol of spiritual significance, imperial ritual, and architectural perfection in Chinese history.
The Summer Palace, located in the northwest of Beijing, is a stunning imperial garden and former royal retreat, renowned for its natural beauty and classical Chinese landscape design. Originally built in 1750 during the Qing Dynasty, it was later rebuilt and expanded after being damaged in the 19th century. Covering over 700 acres, the Summer Palace is centered around Kunming Lake and Longevity Hill, featuring elegant pavilions, ancient halls, bridges, and winding corridors. Highlights include the Long Corridor, Marble Boat, and Seventeen-Arch Bridge. It served as a summer resort for emperors seeking escape from the Forbidden City’s heat, combining political function, leisure, and spiritual reflection. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Summer Palace is a masterpiece of traditional Chinese garden architecture and a symbol of imperial elegance and harmony with nature.
You can choose to be picked up from a list of locations, or alternatively, have the choice to make your own way to the meeting points
1. If you would start the tour from a hotel in Beijing city: Your guide or driver will hold your name sign and pick you up from the hotel lobby. 2. If you would start the tour from PEK airport: Your guide or driver will hold your name sign and wait you outside the luggage picking area.
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