The small-group Mutianyu Great Wall and Summer Palace tour offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore two of China’s most iconic landmarks. With a maximum of 12 participants, the tour ensures a personalized experience as you ascend the meticulously restored Great Wall, either by cable car or chairlift, and descend via a thrilling toboggan ride. Complementing the sightseeing is an authentic Chinese lunch, providing a true taste of the local culinary heritage. The guided tour of the Summer Palace then allows you to discover the imperial garden and palace, immersing you in the rich history and grandeur of ancient China. This comprehensive tour promises to leave you with lasting memories of your exploration of these remarkable attractions.
This experience made our list of the 25 Best Lunch Experiences In Beijing.
Key Points
- Explore the Mutianyu Great Wall, a masterpiece of restoration with 23 original-style watchtowers, using cable car or chairlift and descending via thrilling toboggan ride.
- Enjoy an authentic Chinese lunch in a charming local village, savoring the flavors of kung pao chicken, mushrooms with pork, and onion pancakes.
- Discover the iconic landmarks of the Summer Palace, including the Marble Boat and Long Corridor, during a 2-hour guided tour.
- Enjoy the grandeur and cultural heritage of the imperial garden and palace, featuring harmonious natural landscapes and exquisite architecture.
- Benefit from convenient hotel pickup and drop-off within the 4th ring road of Beijing, as well as a small-group tour with a maximum of 12 participants for a personalized experience.
Mutianyu Great Wall Highlights
The Mutianyu Great Wall is a masterpiece of restoration, featuring 23 original-style watchtowers that offer visitors a remarkable glimpse into China’s rich historical legacy.
Ascending the Mutianyu Great Wall can be done via cable car or chair lift, allowing travelers to save their energy for exploring the iconic fortifications.
Once atop the Great Wall, guests will have around 2 hours to wander along the restored sections, marveling at the stunning vistas that stretch out in all directions.
For the adventurous, the descent can be made by thrilling toboggan ride, providing an exciting end to the Mutianyu Great Wall experience.
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Cable Car or Chair Lift
Visitors to the Mutianyu Great Wall can choose between two convenient options to ascend the iconic fortification – a cable car or a chairlift.
The cable car whisks visitors up the mountain in just 15 minutes, offering stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
Alternatively, the chairlift provides a more leisurely ride, allowing you to take in the sights at a slower pace.
Both options are well-maintained and operate year-round, ensuring a comfortable and hassle-free journey to the top.
Whether you prefer the efficiency of the cable car or the scenic charm of the chairlift, these transportation choices make it easy for visitors of all ages and abilities to explore the breathtaking Mutianyu Great Wall.
Toboggan Ride Down the Wall
For those who prefer an exhilarating descent, the Mutianyu Great Wall offers the option to ride a toboggan down the mountain after exploring its historic watchtowers.
This thrilling experience allows visitors to glide down a specially-designed metal slide, weaving through the stunning natural scenery at speeds of up to 15 miles per hour.
The toboggan ride provides:
- An adrenaline-pumping adventure with sweeping views of the surrounding landscape.
- A unique way to experience the Great Wall beyond just walking its ancient steps.
- A fun and memorable end to the day’s exploration of this iconic UNESCO World Heritage site.
- A smooth and controlled descent, with brakes to adjust speed as needed.
Authentic Chinese Lunch Menu
An authentic Chinese lunch menu awaits visitors, offering a delectable array of traditional dishes that tantalize the taste buds.
Theres some good the savory flavors of kung pao chicken, relish the earthy tones of mushrooms and pork, and savor the crisp delicacy of onion pancakes, all served in the charming setting of a local village.
This carefully curated menu showcases the rich culinary heritage of China, allowing participants to enjoy the country’s vibrant food culture.
The lunch experience promises to be a highlight of the tour, providing a true taste of authentic Chinese cuisine in a picturesque and intimate setting.
Guided Tour of Summer Palace
The 2-hour guided tour of the Summer Palace immerses visitors in the grandeur and historical significance of China’s largest and best-preserved imperial garden and palace. Guests explore the iconic landmarks, including the Marble Boat and the Long Corridor, while learning about the captivating history and intricate architecture that define this stunning cultural heritage site.
The magnificent Kunming Lake, which features the iconic Marble Boat, a whimsical structure that once served as a summer retreat for the Empress Dowager Cixi.
The Long Corridor, a 700-meter-long covered walkway adorned with intricate paintings and carvings, providing a delightful stroll through the gardens.
The Seventeen Arch Bridge, a picturesque stone bridge spanning the lake and offering breathtaking views of the palace grounds.
The Xianfeng Temple, an opulent Tibetan-style Buddhist temple showcasing the diverse cultural influences found within the Summer Palace.
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Imperial Garden and Palace
Beyond the iconic landmarks showcased during the guided tour, the Summer Palace boasts an expansive imperial garden that exemplifies the grandeur and cultural richness of China’s dynastic past.
Spanning an impressive 2.9 square kilometers, the garden features a harmonious blend of natural landscapes and exquisite architecture. Visitors can stroll along winding pathways, admire the intricate pavilions and bridges, and marvel at the serene Kunming Lake.
The palace itself, with its ornate decor and impressive scale, offers a glimpse into the luxurious lives of China’s emperors. Exploring the Summer Palace allows travelers to enjoy the legacy of imperial China and gain a deeper understanding of the country’s rich cultural heritage.
Hotel Pickup and Drop-off
Convenient hotel pickup and drop-off service within the 4th ring road of Beijing ensures a hassle-free start and end to the day’s excursion. This personalized transportation saves guests the trouble of navigating public transit or arranging their own rides.
The air-conditioned minivan provides a comfortable journey to and from the day’s highlights:
- Mutianyu Great Wall, where guests can ascend by cable car or chair lift and descend via toboggan.
- An authentic Chinese lunch in a local village.
- The Summer Palace, China’s largest and best-preserved imperial garden and palace.
Small-group tours with a maximum of 12 participants allow for a more intimate and personalized experience.
Small Group Tour Details
With a maximum of 12 participants, the small-group tour format allows for a more personalized and intimate experience compared to larger group excursions. Guests can engage directly with the knowledgeable guide and fellow travelers, fostering a sense of camaraderie throughout the day’s activities.
This smaller group size ensures a more focused and tailored experience, with ample opportunities to ask questions and receive attentive support. The tour’s itinerary is designed to provide a comprehensive introduction to the Mutianyu Great Wall and Summer Palace, while the authentic Chinese lunch offers a chance to savor local flavors in a picturesque village setting.
Ultimately, the small-group approach enhances the overall quality and exclusivity of this immersive cultural exploration.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Tour Schedule and Timings?
The tour schedule includes 2 hours to explore the Mutianyu Great Wall, followed by an authentic Chinese lunch, and a 2-hour guided tour of the Summer Palace. Hotel pickup and drop-off are provided.
Is the Tour Available in Other Languages?
The tour is available in multiple languages, including English. Travelers can expect knowledgeable guides who provide commentary in the language of their choice throughout the day’s activities at the Great Wall and Summer Palace.
Can We Customize the Tour Itinerary?
Customers can typically customize the tour itinerary within reason, such as adjusting the duration spent at each site or adding/removing stops. However, the core activities and inclusions are generally fixed for this type of small-group tour.
Are There Any Additional Costs or Fees?
There may be additional costs or fees for optional activities, such as using the cable car or toboggan at the Mutianyu Great Wall. The tour price typically covers the listed inclusions, but travelers should check for any extra charges.
What Is the Cancellation and Refund Policy?
The cancellation and refund policy allows full refunds for cancellations made at least 24 hours prior to the tour’s departure. Last-minute cancellations may incur penalties or no refund, so it’s best to check the policy details.
Recap
This small-group tour offers a comprehensive and immersive experience at two of Beijing’s most iconic landmarks.
Visitors can explore the Mutianyu Great Wall, ascend by cable car or chairlift, and descend via thrilling toboggan ride.
The tour also includes a visit to the Summer Palace, where they’ll discover the imperial garden and palace.
Complementing the sightseeing is an authentic Chinese lunch, providing a true taste of the local culinary heritage.
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