Beijing Historical 2-Day Tour Including the Great Wall

Explore the captivating historical legacy of China’s capital on this immersive two-day tour of Beijing. Set out on a journey through time, uncovering the hidden gems that have shaped the city’s rich cultural tapestry. From the grandeur of Tiananmen Square and the Forbidden City to the serene tranquility of the Temple of Heaven, each experience promises to leave a lasting impression. But the true highlight awaits as you venture to the iconic Great Wall, where the vastness of this architectural marvel will leave you in awe. Prepare to be transported to a bygone era, where the echoes of imperial dynasties still linger.

This experience made our list of the 20 Best 2 Day Tours In Beijing.

Key Points

• The 2-day Beijing Historical Tour covers major landmarks like the Great Wall, Tiananmen Square, Forbidden City, and Temple of Heaven, priced from $390.00 per person.
• The tour itinerary includes highlights such as exploring the Forbidden City, visiting the Silk Museum, and experiencing cultural performances at the Temple of Heaven.
• Tiananmen Square and the Forbidden City provide insights into China’s history, with the former showcasing Mao’s influence and the latter reflecting over 500 years of imperial power.
• The tour includes a visit to the Jade Museum, a tea ceremony, and an optional trip to the Summer Palace, offering a comprehensive understanding of Chinese culture and traditions.
• The package includes a professional guide, activities, entrance fees, transportation, and hotel pick-up and drop-off, though accommodation and gratuities are not covered.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The 2-day Beijing Historical Tour, priced from $390.00 per person, provides a comprehensive exploration of the city’s most iconic historical sites.

Covering the Great Wall and key landmarks like Tiananmen Square, the Forbidden City, and the Temple of Heaven, this tour offers a deep dive into China’s rich heritage.

Guests can take advantage of free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and reserve their spot without any upfront payment.

With a professional guide, all activities and entrance fees included, and transportation provided, the tour streamlines the experience for a hassle-free adventure.

Whether visiting for the first time or seeking a refresher, this 2-day itinerary delivers an immersive historical journey through Beijing.

Itinerary Highlights

Day 1 of the 2-day Beijing Historical Tour offers a captivating exploration of the city’s iconic landmarks.

Visitors will marvel at Tiananmen Square, observing Mao’s lasting influence on modern China. Next, they’ll explore the Forbidden City, the largest and best-preserved ancient imperial palace with over 500 years of history.

The Silk Museum provides a fascinating introduction to traditional Chinese silk culture. At the Temple of Heaven, guests can experience the serene square dance and Taiji show, seeing ancient worship traditions.

• Tiananmen Square
• Forbidden City
• Silk Museum
• Temple of Heaven
• Square dance and Taiji show

Tiananmen Square and Forbidden City

Tiananmen Square, the symbolic heart of China, serves as the captivating first stop on this historical tour. At over 100 acres, the expansive plaza is dominated by the iconic portrait of Mao Zedong, a constant reminder of the Communist Party’s influential role in shaping modern China.

Next, the group will explore the Forbidden City, the largest and best-preserved ancient imperial palace in the world. This UNESCO World Heritage site‘s stunning imperial architecture, dating back over 500 years, offers a glimpse into China’s dynastic past.

Visitors can wander through the maze of halls and courtyards, marveling at the intricate details and grandeur that defined the seat of imperial power.

Silk Museum and Temple of Heaven

After exploring the grandeur of Tiananmen Square and the Forbidden City, the tour continues to the Silk Museum. Here, visitors explore the rich history and cultural significance of traditional Chinese silk production.

The museum showcases:

• Intricate silk weaving techniques
• Displays of rare and exquisite silk garments
• Interactive demonstrations of silk farming and processing
• Opportunities to touch and feel the luxurious fabric
• Explanations of the silk trade’s impact on China’s economy

From the Silk Museum, the group then visits the Temple of Heaven, an iconic example of Ming dynasty architecture.

Here, they experience the serene atmosphere of the ancient imperial worship complex and enjoy lively cultural performances, including a square dance and Taiji show.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Great Wall and Jade Museum

Departing the Temple of Heaven, the tour then ventures to the iconic Great Wall, an ancient fortification that stretches over 10,000 miles across northern China. Visitors have the chance to hike along the wall, marveling at its impressive engineering and breathtaking vistas. The tour next stops at the Jade Museum, where guests can explore the rich history and cultural significance of this precious stone in Chinese art and tradition.

Experience	Duration	Difficulty	Highlights
Great Wall Hike	1.5 hrs	Moderate	Panoramic views, ancient watch towers
Jade Museum Tour	1 hr	Easy	Intricate carvings, jade jewelry exhibition
Tea Ceremony	30 mins	Easy	Traditional brewing techniques, sampling
Summer Palace	1.5 hrs	Easy	Largest imperial garden, historic buildings

Summer Palace and Tea Ceremony

Visitors then explore the magnificent Summer Palace, the largest and most beautiful imperial garden in China.

Once the summer retreat for emperors, this sprawling complex is a harmonious blend of lakes, hills, and classical architecture. Guests admire the picturesque Long Corridor, marvel at the grand Marble Boat, and climb the Seventeen Arch Bridge for panoramic vistas.

The tour culminates in a traditional Chinese tea ceremony, where visitors learn about the history and art of tea culture:

• Observe the precise tea preparation techniques
• Sample a variety of premium Chinese teas
• Discover the subtle differences in aroma and flavor
• Learn about the health benefits of different tea types
• Appreciate the cultural significance of tea in Chinese society

Inclusions and Exclusions

The tour package includes a professional guide, all the listed activities and entrance fees, meals as per the itinerary, a tea tasting on Day 2, private vehicle transportation, and travel insurance.

Hotel pick-up and drop-off are also provided. However, the price doesn’t cover accommodation or gratuities, which are recommended.

Souvenir photos are available for purchase. The tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, and pets aren’t allowed.

Participants must provide their hotel details, passport information, and contact numbers for booking purposes.

Tickets for the Forbidden City are limited and can only be reserved a week in advance.

Booking and Availability

Travelers can check availability for starting times on the tour.

Pickup is available from central Beijing hotel lobbies.

If Forbidden City tickets are unavailable, the tour will visit Jingshan Park instead to provide views of the Forbidden City layout.

To book, travelers need to provide the following details:

• Hotel name and address
• Cell phone number
• Passport names, dates of birth, and passport numbers

Availability is limited, so early booking is recommended.

Tickets for the Forbidden City are especially competitive, only being released seven days in advance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Tour Suitable for Children?

The tour doesn’t explicitly mention suitability for children. However, the itinerary and inclusions suggest it may not be the most family-friendly option, as it doesn’t appear to cater to the needs of young travelers.

Can I Bring My Own Snacks and Water?

Yes, you can bring your own snacks and water for the tour. The tour itinerary doesn’t include meals, so you’re free to pack your own food and beverages to enjoy during the day.

How Many People Are Typically in a Tour Group?

The tour group size typically ranges from 8 to 15 people, providing an intimate experience while allowing for personalized attention from the guide. Group size may vary depending on demand and time of year.

Do the Guides Speak Fluent English?

The tour guides are proficient in English, allowing them to effectively communicate the tour’s details and provide insightful commentary. They’re trained to ensure a smooth and engaging experience for travellers from diverse backgrounds.

Is There an Option to Customize the Tour Itinerary?

The tour company generally offers a standard itinerary, but they may be willing to customize the tour based on the traveler’s interests and needs. Travelers can inquire about modifying the schedule or adding/removing certain activities when booking the tour.

The Sum Up

This 2-day Beijing Historical Tour offers an immersive experience, exploring the city’s iconic landmarks and rich cultural heritage. Travelers will marvel at the grandeur of the Great Wall, Tiananmen Square, and the Forbidden City, while gaining insights into Chinese traditions at the Silk Museum and Temple of Heaven. With all-inclusive amenities, this tour promises an unforgettable adventure through Beijing’s imperial past, creating lasting memories of China’s storied history.

You can check if your dates are available here: