3 Days Beijing Forbidden City, Mutianyu Great Wall VIP Tour

Discover the allure of Beijing’s iconic landmarks on this captivating 3-day VIP tour. Enjoy the grandeur of the Forbidden City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where you’ll uncover the rich history and imperial treasures that defined China’s past. Then, venture to the stunning Mutianyu Great Wall, offering breathtaking vistas and thrilling options like a chairlift ride or toboggan descent. This comprehensive itinerary promises to unveil the depth of China’s cultural heritage, leaving you with a newfound appreciation for the city’s remarkable past. But the journey has only just begun…

This experience made our list of the 20 Best 3 Day Tours In Beijing.

Key Points

• Comprehensive 3-day tour of Beijing covering iconic landmarks like Tiananmen Square, Forbidden City, Temple of Heaven, and Mutianyu Great Wall.
• Professional English, French, and Spanish-speaking guides available to provide in-depth insights into the historical and cultural significance of each attraction.
• Includes round-trip transportation, entrance tickets, and gratuities for a hassle-free, immersive experience.
• Opportunity to explore the lavish private quarters of former rulers at the Forbidden City and enjoy the majestic views from the Mutianyu Great Wall.
• Highly rated tour offering an authentic and memorable experience, with a 5.0 rating based on 4 reviews.

Tour Overview

This 3-day Beijing tour offers a comprehensive exploration of the city’s iconic landmarks, including the Forbidden City, Great Wall, and a range of cultural sites.

The tour is led by professional English/French/Spanish-speaking guides and includes round-trip transportation, all entrance tickets, and gratuities.

Spanning 3 full days, the tour covers major attractions like Tiananmen Square, the Forbidden City, Temple of Heaven, and the Mutianyu section of the Great Wall.

With a 5.0 rating based on 4 reviews, the tour provides an immersive experience that blends history, culture, and local insights, ensuring a memorable journey for travelers.

Tiananmen Square

The tour begins at Tiananmen Square, the largest city square in the world. Capable of holding 1 million people, this iconic landmark has a rich history spanning over 600 years.

Guests will spend about 40 minutes exploring the square, taking in the grand scale and significance of the space. The guide will share insights about the square’s role in pivotal events, such as the 1989 pro-democracy protests.

Visitors will marvel at the surrounding architectural landmarks, including the Forbidden City and the iconic portrait of Mao Zedong. This opening stop sets the stage for the deeper exploration of Beijing’s historical and cultural treasures that lies ahead.

Forbidden City

From Tiananmen Square, the tour proceeds to the iconic Forbidden City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that has served as the imperial palace for over 600 years.

This vast complex features:

• Over 9,000 rooms showcasing Ming and Qing dynasty architecture
• The Treasure Hall, housing an impressive collection of imperial artifacts
• The Imperial Garden, a serene oasis amidst the palace grounds
• The Clock and Watch Gallery, displaying the emperor’s exquisite timepieces
• The opportunity to explore the lavish private quarters of China’s former rulers

With its rich history and stunning aesthetics, the Forbidden City offers an immersive glimpse into China’s imperial past.

Temple of Heaven

After exploring the grandeur of the Forbidden City, the tour continues to the Temple of Heaven, Beijing’s largest worship structure. Visitors will spend around 2 hours exploring this UNESCO World Heritage site. They’ll discover the intricate architecture, including the majestic circular Altar of Heaven, where emperors would pray for good harvests. The tour also offers insights into the local life, as people gather here to practice tai chi, play cards, and socialize.

Feature	Description
Size	273 acres (110 hectares)
History	Built in 1420, expanded over centuries
Design	Symbolic representation of heaven and earth
Significance	Emperors’ yearly prayers for good harvests
Activities	Tai chi, card games, social gathering

Mutianyu Great Wall

Travelers making their way to the Mutianyu Great Wall can look forward to exploring this less crowded yet equally majestic section of the iconic ancient fortification.

The tour includes a chairlift ride to the top, providing breathtaking views of the wall snaking across the rugged landscape. Visitors can opt to hike along the well-preserved towers and ramparts or take a thrilling toboggan ride back down.

This section of the Great Wall was notably visited by President Nixon in 1972, adding to its historical significance.

With its stunning scenery and accessibility, the Mutianyu Great Wall is a must-visit destination on any Beijing itinerary.

• Chairlift ride to the top
• Hiking along the well-preserved towers and ramparts
• Thrilling toboggan ride back down
• Historical significance with a 1972 visit by President Nixon
• Stunning scenery and accessibility

Lama Temple

Within Beijing’s vibrant cityscape, the Lama Temple stands as a captivating Tibetan-style sanctuary. Established in the 18th century, this renowned Buddhist site is renowned for its 26-meter sandalwood Buddha statue, one of the largest of its kind.

Visitors can explore the temple’s intricately carved halls and altars, seeing the rich cultural heritage. The Lama Temple’s unique architecture, blending Tibetan and Han Chinese influences, offers a fascinating glimpse into the country’s religious diversity.

As part of the tour, guests will spend 1.5 hours discovering the temple’s serene ambiance and learning about its significance in Buddhist practice and Beijing’s history.

Confucius Worship Site

The Temple of Confucius and Guozijian Museum offer a captivating glimpse into China’s rich educational heritage. This preserved ancient institution serves as a worship site for Confucius, the revered philosopher and educator whose teachings have profoundly influenced Chinese culture.

• The temple’s architecture reflects traditional Chinese design, with ornate halls and courtyards that evoke a sense of timeless tranquility.

• Visitors can explore the museum’s collection of ancient texts, calligraphic works, and artifacts that showcase the legacy of Confucian scholarship.

• The site provides an opportunity to learn about the role of education in ancient China and how Confucian principles have shaped the country’s intellectual and cultural landscape.

• With a 1.5-hour guided tour, travelers can gain deeper insights into this significant historical and cultural landmark.

• The experience offers a chance to reflect on the enduring impact of Confucianism and its continued relevance in modern China.

Summer Palace

The Summer Palace stands as a testament to imperial grandeur, offering visitors a captivating glimpse into China’s rich cultural heritage. This expansive imperial garden, nestled on the outskirts of Beijing, was once the summer retreat for the Qing dynasty emperors. Visitors can explore the meticulously landscaped grounds, admire the intricate architecture, and gain insights into the life of the legendary Empress Dowager Cixi, who orchestrated the palace’s extensive renovations. The Summer Palace’s highlights include the renowned Marble Boat, the Seventeen Arch Bridge, and the opulent Long Corridor, each showcasing the remarkable craftsmanship and artistic traditions of the era.

Highlights	Description
Marble Boat	Iconic structure representing the Empress Dowager’s lavish indulgence
Seventeen Arch Bridge	Stunning bridge spanning the palace’s central lake
Long Corridor	Extensive covered walkway adorned with intricate paintings
Empress Dowager Cixi	Influential ruler who played a pivotal role in the palace’s development

Frequently Asked Questions

Is There Wheelchair Access for the Entire Tour?

The tour is wheelchair accessible, with the Mutianyu Great Wall section offering chairlift access to the top. Visitors in wheelchairs can fully participate in the majority of the sightseeing activities on this comprehensive Beijing tour.

What Is the Average Group Size for This Tour?

According to the information provided, the tour group size can vary, but the price range of $534.85 indicates it’s likely a small group tour. The tour is advertised as wheelchair and stroller accessible, allowing for a personalized experience.

Can I Take Photos Inside the Forbidden City?

Yes, visitors are permitted to take photos inside the Forbidden City. However, flash photography is not allowed as it can damage the ancient artifacts and structures. Visitors are encouraged to capture the stunning architecture and imperial history through their camera lenses.

Is There an Option to Upgrade to a Private Tour?

Yes, there is an option to upgrade to a private tour. Travelers can request a private tour with a dedicated guide and vehicle for a more personalized and flexible experience exploring the Forbidden City and Mutianyu Great Wall.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks During the Tour?

Yes, guests are welcome to bring their own food and drinks during the tour. The tour provides a flexible experience, allowing travelers to enjoy the sights at their own pace and with their personal refreshments.

Recap

This VIP tour of Beijing’s iconic landmarks offers an immersive cultural experience. Visitors will marvel at the grandeur of the Forbidden City, explore the serene Mutianyu Great Wall, and discover the city’s rich heritage through visits to the Temple of Heaven, Lama Temple, and Summer Palace. With the convenience of a guided tour and transportation, travelers can fully enjoy the splendor of China’s capital.