Beijings Old Hutongs: A Self-Guided Audio Tour

Exploring the historic alleyways of Beijing has never been easier. The self-guided audio tour of the city’s old hutongs offers a unique opportunity to take in the rich cultural heritage at one’s own pace. Priced at $4.99 per person, the 45-minute tour led by Alec Ash takes participants on a 3km journey from the Drum Tower to the Tibetan Buddhist Lama Temple. With the convenience of the VoiceMap app, visitors can uncover the architectural charm and captivating stories that lie within these ancient passageways. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a curious first-timer, this tour promises to reveal…

Key Points

• A self-guided audio tour that explores the historic hutongs of Beijing, providing insights into the city’s traditional architecture and community life.
• Tour is priced at $4.99 per person, with a duration of 45 minutes covering a 3km route from the Drum Tower to Tibetan Lama Temple.
• Audio guide narrated by Alec Ash is available in English and accessible through the VoiceMap app, which must be downloaded prior to the tour.
• Tour offers flexibility for visitors to explore at their own pace, with the option to access the content before and after the booking date.
• Despite positive aspects, the tour has received mixed reviews, with concerns raised about the alignment of the starting point and the depth of exploration of the hutong charms.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

The self-guided audio tour of Beijing’s old hutongs, priced from $4.99 per person, offers a 45-minute walking experience spanning a 3km distance from the Drum Tower to the Tibetan Buddhist Lama Temple.

The tour is available in English only and includes an audio guide. Visitors can explore the history and culture of Beijing’s charming hutongs at their own pace, with commentary provided by producer, writer, and editor Alec Ash.

To ensure the best experience, travelers should download the VoiceMap app and the tour content before arriving at the starting point, located on the south side of the Drum Tower.

Booking Information

Visitors have access to free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

There’s also a reserve now & pay later option available. The tour provides unlimited access before and after the booking date, allowing visitors to explore the experience at their convenience.

Plus, a virtual tour option is offered for those who prefer to experience the hutongs from the comfort of their own homes.

The booking process is straightforward, with clear instructions provided to ensure a seamless tour experience.

Travelers can secure their spot in advance, ensuring they don’t miss out on this unique opportunity to explore the rich history and culture of Beijing’s captivating hutongs.

Experience Highlights

Exploring the history and culture of Beijing’s hutongs is the core focus of this self-guided audio tour.

Narrated by producer, writer, and editor Alec Ash, the commentary provides an in-depth look at these historic alleyways.

Tour-goers have the flexibility to complete the 45-minute tour at their own pace, lingering at stops to fully enjoy the charm of the old neighborhoods.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned Beijing explorer, this audio tour offers a unique opportunity to uncover the hidden gems and stories that lie within the city’s iconic hutongs.

Requirements and Preparation

To fully enjoy the self-guided audio tour of Beijing’s old hutongs, you’ll need a few essential items.

First and foremost, you’ll need a pair of headphones to learn about the audio commentary.

Plus, you’ll need a charged smartphone to download and access the VoiceMap app, which is the platform for the tour.

It’s highly recommended to download the tour before arriving at the starting point to ensure the best experience.

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Meeting Point and Directions

The self-guided audio tour begins at the south side of the Drum Tower.

To get there, you can:

1. Take the subway and exit at Shichahai Station (Line 8), then turn right.
2. Hail a taxi and ask the driver to take you to Gulou, near the Drum Tower.
3. Walk from the Drum Tower’s entrance, as the starting point isn’t at the tower itself.
4. Follow the turn-by-turn directions provided in the VoiceMap app to ensure you’re on the right path.

Downloading the tour before arriving at the starting point is recommended for the best experience.

Customer Reviews

With only a single review available, the overall rating for this self-guided audio tour of Beijing’s old hutongs stands at a disappointing 2 out of 5 stars.

The feedback highlights issues with the starting point, which may not be the entrance to the Drum Tower as expected, and indicates the tour content may not fully capture the charm and character of the historic hutong neighborhoods.

While the tour offers an audio guide and turns-by-turn directions, the lone review suggests the experience falls short of providing an immersive and engaging exploration of this culturally significant area of Beijing.

Exploring Beijing’s Hutongs

Beijing’s historic hutongs offer visitors a captivating glimpse into the city’s traditional way of life.

This self-guided audio tour brings these charming alleyways and courtyard homes to life through the engaging commentary of producer, writer, and editor Alec Ash.

The tour highlights several key experiences:

1. Discovering the architectural styles and unique features of traditional hutong dwellings.

2. Learning about the social dynamics and community life that thrives within these narrow lanes.

3. Appreciating the artisanal workshops and local businesses that have operated in the hutongs for generations.

4. Observing the blend of modern and historic elements that coexist in these dynamic urban neighborhoods.

Tour Highlights and Insights

Several highlights await visitors on this immersive audio tour of Beijing’s historic hutongs.

Led by writer and editor Alec Ash, the 45-minute self-guided experience explores the culture and history of these traditional alleyway neighborhoods. Walkers can set their own pace, lingering at stops or completing the 3km route in under an hour.

The included audio guide provides in-depth commentary, while a virtual tour option allows users to experience the hutongs from home.

However, some reviewers noted issues with the starting point and tour content, suggesting it may not fully capture the charm of old Beijing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Book the Tour in Languages Other Than English?

Unfortunately, the tour is only available in English. The information provided does not mention any other language options being offered for this self-guided audio tour of Beijing’s old hutongs.

Is the Tour Handicap Accessible?

The self-guided audio tour does not appear to be handicap accessible. The tour requires walking a 3km distance and following turn-by-turn directions, which may pose challenges for individuals with mobility limitations.

Can I Purchase the Tour On-Site or Only Online?

The tour can only be purchased online and not on-site. The website offers a "Reserve now & pay later" option, allowing customers to book the tour in advance without immediate payment.

What Are the Health and Safety Protocols During the Tour?

The tour overview doesn’t mention any health and safety protocols. However, as with any self-guided tour, visitors should exercise caution, follow local guidelines, and bring any necessary personal protective equipment to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

Is There an Option to Join a Group Tour Instead of Self-Guided?

No, there is no option to join a group tour. This audio tour is self-guided only. Customers must use their own smartphones and download the necessary app and audio content before starting the tour at the designated location.

The Sum Up

The self-guided audio tour of Beijing’s historic hutongs offers visitors an immersive and flexible way to discover the city’s rich cultural heritage. With the convenience of the VoiceMap app, travelers can explore the charming alleyways at their own pace, learning about the architecture and history from the engaging commentary. Whether visiting in person or virtually, this tour provides an authentic and insightful experience of the hutongs’ unique character.

You can check if your dates are available here: