Old Beijing Hutong, the Drum & Bell Tower of Layover

Old Beijing Hutong, with its maze-like alleys and courtyard homes, offers travelers a chance to glimpse the city’s rich cultural heritage. Nearby, the iconic Drum and Bell Towers provide stunning panoramic views that enhance the experience. A guided tour allows visitors to navigate this historic neighborhood, engage with locals, and even enjoy a rickshaw ride. Whether you’ve got limited time on a layover or are seeking an immersive cultural experience, this tour promises to leave you intrigued and eager to discover more of Beijing’s vibrant charm.

Key Points

• This 2-3 hour private tour explores the historic Hutong neighborhoods and Drum and Bell Towers of Old Beijing during a layover.
• The tour is designed for travelers with flights arriving 6-7 a.m. and departing 7-8 p.m., optimizing limited layover time.
• Highlights include rickshaw rides through alleyways, visits to local homes, and panoramic views from the Drum and Bell Towers.
• The tour includes transfers, mineral water, rickshaw rides, and tower visits, but excludes personal expenses like tips.
• Accessible for wheelchairs and strollers, with infant seats available, ensuring an inclusive experience.

Overview of the Tour

This private tour takes guests on a 2-3 hour exploration of Old Beijing‘s renowned Hutong neighborhoods and the iconic Drum and Bell Towers.

Designed for travelers with flights arriving as early as 6-7 a.m. and departing as late as 7-8 p.m., the tour ensures an immersive experience focused solely on your group.

You’ll venture through the city’s historic alleyways by rickshaw, visit local homes, and ascend the ancient Drum and Bell Towers for panoramic views of Old Beijing.

This private tour provides a convenient way to make the most of a layover in the capital, showcasing the charm and culture of this centuries-old city.

Inclusions and Exclusions

The tour includes transfers, mineral water, rickshaw rides, and visits to the iconic Bell and Drum Towers as well as local homes.

However, it excludes personal expenses, such as tips for the guide, driver, and rickshaw pullers.

The meeting point is at the Starbucks in Beijing airport Terminals 2 and 3, or at the hotel/apartment, where the guide will be waiting with a sign bearing the traveler’s name.

The transfer to the Old Beijing Hutong takes approximately one hour.

The tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, and infant seats are available, but it isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers or those with serious medical conditions.

Meeting and Pickup Details

The meeting point for the tour is at the Starbucks in Beijing airport Terminals 2 and 3, or at the hotel/apartment. The guide will be waiting for you in the lobby, holding a sign with your name. The transfer to the Old Beijing Hutong takes about 1 hour.

Step	Action
1	Follow the signs to the Exit and Baggage Claim
2	Get the Visa-free Permit Stamp at the 72/144-hour International Transfer
3	Pass through immigration
4	Take the train to the terminal station (T3 C), then exit B and find the Starbucks

If you have trouble finding the Visa-free Permit location, consult the airport staff for assistance.

Visa-Free Permit Process

To obtain the Visa-free Permit, guests follow a straightforward process.

After clearing customs, they’ll find signs directing them to the Visa-free Permit Stamp station. Once they’ve obtained the stamp, they’ll pass through immigration and take a train to the terminal station.

At the terminal, they’ll exit at B and find the Starbucks where the guide will be waiting. If they’ve any trouble locating the Visa-free Permit station, guests can consult the airport staff for assistance.

This process ensures a seamless start to the Old Beijing Hutong and Drum & Bell Tower tour.

Accessibility and Additional Information

Wheelchair accessibility, stroller accessibility, and service animal allowance are among the tour’s accessibility features.

Infant seats are also available for those bringing young children. However, the tour isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers or those with serious medical conditions.

Confirmation is provided at the time of booking, and free cancellation is possible up to 24 hours before the tour begins.

The overall price for the Old Beijing Hutong and Drum & Bell Tower tour starts at $174.54 per person, with the exact cost varying based on group size.

Duration and Suitability

The tour’s duration is 2-3 hours, making it suitable for travelers with flights arriving between 6-7 a.m. and departing between 7-8 p.m.

This private tour is designed to accommodate guests, with only your group participating.

The tour takes you through the charming Old Beijing Hutong, where you’ll visit the iconic Drum and Bell Tower.

The tour’s timing aligns with typical flight schedules, ensuring you can make the most of your layover in Beijing.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, this tour offers a unique and immersive experience in the heart of China’s ancient capital.

Private Tour With Your Group

Your private tour with your group allows you to explore the charming Old Beijing Hutong at your own pace.

With only your group participating, you’ll enjoy a personalized experience tailored to your interests. Your guide will lead you through the maze-like alleys, introducing you to the local way of life.

You’ll visit the iconic Drum and Bell Towers, gaining insights into Beijing’s rich history. The tour also includes a visit to a traditional home, giving you a glimpse into the daily lives of the Hutong residents.

This private excursion ensures you make the most of your limited layover time in Beijing.

Price and Cancellation Policy

The price of this private tour starts from $174.54 per person, with the exact cost varying based on the group size.

Travelers can take advantage of the free cancellation policy, which allows them to cancel up to 24 hours before the experience starts. This provides flexibility for those who may need to adjust their plans.

The tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, and accommodates service animals and infant seats, making it inclusive for a range of travelers.

However, it isn’t recommended for pregnant individuals or those with serious medical conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Should I Wear During the Tour?

Comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing is recommended for the tour. Wear sturdy walking shoes, as the tour involves navigating narrow alleyways and climbing stairs. Dress in layers to accommodate changes in temperature during the 2-3 hour tour.

Can I Take Photographs During the Tour?

Yes, visitors are encouraged to take photographs during the tour. Photography is permitted in all areas visited, providing an opportunity to capture the unique architecture and cultural experiences of the hutong and historic towers.

Is There a Language Option for the Tour?

The tour offers language options for English and Chinese. Participants can request their preferred language when booking the tour, and the guide will provide commentary in the selected language throughout the experience.

Can I Buy Souvenirs During the Tour?

Yes, visitors can purchase souvenirs during the tour. The itinerary includes visits to local homes and shops where travelers can browse and buy traditional Chinese handicrafts, artwork, and other mementos to take home.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

Yes, there is an option to extend the tour duration. The tour’s inclusions list indicates it is a 2-3 hour experience, but travelers can likely customize the length to meet their needs by talking with the tour provider.

Recap

This guided tour offers visitors a chance to enjoy Beijing’s captivating past. Exploring the Hutong’s maze-like alleys, taking in the panoramic views from the Drum and Bell Towers, and experiencing local culture through rickshaw rides create an engaging layover experience. With its convenient inclusions and visa-free permit process, this private tour ensures travelers make the most of their limited time in Beijing.