7-12 Hour Best Beijing Layover Tour to Forbidden City & Mutianyu Great Wall

Tour Itinerary

We offer a complimentary pick-up service from your accommodation in Beijing, whether it's a hotel, train station, or airport. Our professional guide will meet you at the designated location, holding a sign with "Your Way Holiday" for easy identification. From there, you’ll begin our Beijing City Highlights Tour, exploring the city's most iconic attractions and gaining insight into the rich history and culture that make Beijing a must-visit destination.

Your journey begins at the grand Forbidden City, the former imperial palace that served as the political and ceremonial heart of China for over 500 years. Entering through the majestic Gate of Heavenly Peace (Tiananmen), you’ll step into a world of imperial splendor that once housed the emperors of the Ming and Qing dynasties.

The tour starts with the Outer Court, where the emperor held state affairs and grand ceremonies. Here, you’ll be awed by the monumental Hall of Supreme Harmony, the largest and most impressive structure in the Forbidden City. This hall hosted imperial rituals such as the emperor’s enthronement and New Year celebrations. As we continue through the Hall of Central Harmony and the Hall of Preserving Harmony, you’ll learn about the important events and the lavish ceremonies that shaped China’s imperial history.

Leaving the Outer Court, we move to the Inner Court, the private quarters of the emperor and his family. The contrast between the public grandeur and the intimate spaces here is striking. Explore the Palace of Heavenly Purity, where the emperor resided and interacted with close advisors, and the Hall of Union, the meeting place for the emperor and empress. You’ll also visit the peaceful Imperial Garden, designed for relaxation, surrounded by ancient trees, rockeries, and classical pavilions.

Throughout your visit, your guide will share fascinating stories of the emperors' lives, their intricate relationships, and the power dynamics that shaped this ancient empire. You’ll also have the chance to explore the Palace Museum, which houses an extraordinary collection of Chinese art, from priceless jade and silk garments to delicate porcelain and ancient scrolls. This three-hour exploration of the Forbidden City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers a rare glimpse into China’s imperial past. With each courtyard and hall, you’ll uncover layers of history, making this visit an unforgettable journey through China’s royal heritage.

Indulge in a culinary adventure as you explore Beijing’s cultural treasures, enjoying a delightful lunch that introduces you to local flavors. Whether dining in a cozy family-owned restaurant in a hutong or sampling street food at a lively market, you’ll savor iconic Beijing dishes such as succulent Peking duck, savory jianbing, aromatic copper pot hotpot, and delicious dumplings, all made with fresh, local ingredients and traditional recipes. For vegetarians and halal diners, there are plenty of options to ensure everyone enjoys a satisfying meal. Meet friendly locals and passionate chefs eager to share their cooking traditions, enriching your experience. With each bite, you'll not only savor Beijing’s renowned dishes but also gain a deeper understanding of the city’s diverse food culture, leaving with a lasting appreciation for its rich culinary heritage.

In the afternoon, we’ll head to the Mutianyu Great Wall, known for its stunning scenery and well-preserved architecture. Mutianyu is divided into two routes: East and West. For today’s tour, we’ll explore the East Line, a route offering both breathtaking views and fascinating history. Upon arrival, we’ll take the cable car to the 6th Watchtower, where we’ll begin our hike. From here, we’ll head east towards the 1st Watchtower and the iconic Great Corner Tower (Da Jiao Lou). This section of the wall offers some of the best views, with the path winding through the mountains and valleys, providing stunning panoramas of the surrounding landscape.

During our hike, we’ll stop at the 4th Watchtower, famous for its striking views and a popular photo spot called “Zhengguan Tai”. This location is known for its excellent vantage point, where you can capture the Great Wall stretching across the mountains. It’s a perfect place to take a moment, reflect, and snap some memorable photos of this awe-inspiring site. After visiting the 4th Watchtower, we’ll return to the 6th Watchtower and then take the thrilling Super Slide down the mountain. This 1,580-meter-long slide provides an exhilarating descent, letting you zoom through the trees and enjoy a fast-paced, fun ride back to the base. It’s a unique and exciting way to end our visit.

Throughout the hike, your guide will share fascinating stories about the wall’s history and construction. You’ll learn about its role in protecting the ancient Chinese empire, the soldiers who once manned the watchtowers, and the incredible engineering feats that made the Great Wall a symbol of China’s strength and ingenuity. This experience combines history, nature, and adventure, making it a truly unforgettable part of your Beijing visit.

As the day comes to an end, descend from the Great Wall feeling exhilarated and accomplished. Whether heading to the airport or train station, your guide will ensure a smooth and timely transfer, tailored to your schedule. This flexibility lets you customize your experience, maximizing your time in Beijing. Reflect on your journey, from the imperial grandeur of the Forbidden City to the awe-inspiring Great Wall, gaining deeper insight into China’s rich cultural heritage. Rest assured, we’ll ensure you are comfortably and promptly transported to your next destination, concluding a day filled with unforgettable memories.

Price Per Person in US Dollars