Private Garden Tour: The Summer Palace and Beijing Botanical Garden

Exploring the tranquil gardens of Beijing can be a truly captivating experience. This private tour offers a unique opportunity to take in the UNESCO-listed splendor of the Summer Palace and the serene beauty of the Beijing Botanical Garden. From the ornate pavilions and dragon boat cruises to the diverse flora and historical monuments, this tour promises an escape into nature’s embrace. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or simply seeking a respite from the bustling city, this journey through Beijing’s most enchanting green spaces is sure to leave a lasting impression.

Good To Know

• This private garden tour offers a tranquil nature experience, visiting the UNESCO-listed Summer Palace and the expansive Beijing Botanical Garden.
• The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a guided tour of the Summer Palace’s gardens and pavilions, and a dragon boat cruise on Kunming Lake.
• The Beijing Botanical Garden, spanning 988 acres, showcases diverse flora and provides a serene escape from the city’s urban environment.
• The tour is designed for all abilities, with accommodations for dietary restrictions, wheelchair accessibility, and special requests.
• The tour is priced starting at $178.00 per person, with flexible payment plans and free cancellation up to 24 hours before the event.

Tour Overview

This private tour offers nature enthusiasts an opportunity to escape the bustle of Beijing and explore the stunning Summer Palace and the expansive Beijing Botanical Garden.

Ideal for those seeking a day of tranquility, the tour includes a private vehicle for hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as lunch. Rated 5.0 based on 2 reviews, the experience provides a chance to take in the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Summer Palace and its renowned gardens, followed by a visit to the sprawling Beijing Botanical Garden, covering 988 acres of diverse flora and historical monuments.

With flexible options to accommodate dietary requirements and accessibility needs, this tour caters to a range of preferences.

Itinerary Highlights

The private tour begins with hotel pickup in a private vehicle, offering a convenient start to the day’s exploration.

The itinerary highlights include:

1. Driving past the iconic Olympic Green on the way to the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Summer Palace.
2. Exploring the palace’s expansive gardens, recognized as a masterpiece of Chinese landscape design, including a dragon boat cruise (March to October) on Kunming Lake.
3. Visiting the Beijing Botanical Garden, covering 988 acres (400 hectares) with diverse flora and historical monuments.
4. Enjoying a 2-hour tour of the Summer Palace and a 30-minute visit to the Hall of Benevolence and Longevity, with all admissions included.

Summer Palace (Yiheyuan)

At the heart of the private tour lies the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Summer Palace, also known as Yiheyuan.

Visitors will spend 2 hours exploring this masterpiece of Chinese landscape design, marveling at the pavilions, water features, and rich historical context.

The tour includes admission to the iconic Hall of Benevolence and Longevity, where guests can spend 30 minutes immersed in the palace’s grandeur.

From the Dragon Boat cruise on Kunming Lake (March to October) to the meticulously maintained gardens, the Summer Palace offers a captivating glimpse into China’s imperial past and the country’s renowned architectural and landscape heritage.

Hall of Benevolence and Longevity

Within the expansive grounds of the Summer Palace lies the iconic Hall of Benevolence and Longevity. This 30-minute visit with admission included offers visitors a glimpse into the grand architectural and historical significance of this unique structure:

1. Constructed in the 18th century, the Hall of Benevolence and Longevity served as a resting place for the Qing dynasty Emperors.

2. The hall features an ornate and intricate design, with detailed carvings, vibrant colors, and a magnificent curved roof.

3. Visitors can admire the hall’s impressive size, measuring over 70 meters in length and 30 meters in width.

4. The hall’s location within the Summer Palace grounds provides stunning views of the surrounding gardens and Kunming Lake.

Beijing Botanical Garden

After exploring the grandeur of the Summer Palace, the tour continues to the expansive Beijing Botanical Garden.

Spanning 988 acres, the garden boasts a diverse collection of flora, including rare and endangered plant species. Visitors can stroll through themed sections, such as the traditional Chinese medicinal plants garden and the bonsai exhibition.

Historical monuments and sculptures dot the landscape, offering insight into China’s rich cultural heritage. The tour provides ample time to take in the tranquil atmosphere and appreciate the garden’s natural beauty.

With its vast size and variety, the Beijing Botanical Garden offers a serene respite from the bustling city.

Pickup and Accessibility

How does the tour handle pickup and accessibility for guests?

The tour offers free hotel pickup from hotels within Beijing’s 5th ring road, with an extra cost for hotels outside this area. The tour also caters to dietary requirements, wheelchair accessibility, and vegetarian options upon request.

Additionally:

1. Guests can request special accommodations when booking the tour.
2. The tour operates in all weather conditions, so appropriate attire is recommended.
3. The Summer Palace and Beijing Botanical Garden are designed to be accessible for visitors of all abilities.
4. The tour includes transportation in a private vehicle, ensuring a comfortable and convenient experience.

Weather and Attire

The tour operates in all weather conditions, and appropriate attire is recommended for guests.

Whether it’s a sunny day or a light drizzle, the tour will proceed as scheduled. Visitors should dress comfortably and wear sturdy shoes, as the gardens involve a fair amount of walking.

Layering is advised, as the temperature can fluctuate throughout the day. Umbrellas or rain jackets may be necessary during inclement weather.

The tour is designed to provide an enjoyable experience, so guests are encouraged to dress appropriately for the conditions to ensure their comfort and safety during the entire excursion.

Pricing and Booking

The starting price for this private garden tour is $178.00, but the exact cost may vary depending on the group size.

The tour offers several convenient booking options:

1. Reserve now with flexible payment plans.
2. Take advantage of free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience.
3. Customize the tour to accommodate dietary requirements, wheelchair accessibility, and vegetarian preferences upon request.
4. Enjoy a hassle-free experience with included hotel pickup and drop-off for hotels within Beijing’s 5th ring road, although an additional cost may apply for hotels outside this area.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Are the Dress Code Requirements for This Tour?

The tour operates in all weather conditions, so appropriate attire is recommended. Visitors should dress comfortably and wear comfortable walking shoes to fully enjoy the tour’s activities.

Can Children Participate in This Tour?

Yes, children can participate in this tour. The tour provides accommodations for dietary requirements and wheelchair accessibility. Appropriate attire is recommended for the tour in all weather conditions.

Is Photography Allowed Within the Gardens?

Photography is generally allowed within the gardens, but visitors should be mindful of any restrictions or guidelines in place. Some areas may have limitations or require special permission for certain types of photography.

Do I Need to Bring My Own Lunch or Is It Provided?

The tour includes lunch, so participants don’t need to bring their own. The provided meal is part of the overall tour package, making it a convenient and complete experience for visitors.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

Yes, the tour offers the option to extend the duration. Participants can request additional time at either the Summer Palace or Beijing Botanical Garden, subject to availability and an additional fee.

Sum Up

The Private Garden Tour offers a serene and immersive experience, showcasing the UNESCO-listed Summer Palace and the expansive Beijing Botanical Garden. Visitors can marvel at the stunning landscapes, ornate pavilions, and tranquil waters, while enjoying a dragon boat cruise and exploring the diverse flora and historical monuments. This tour provides an ideal escape for nature enthusiasts seeking a peaceful and enriching journey in the heart of Beijing.