Beijing Imperial Journey — History with Breathing Room

Private transfer from PEK or PKX airport to your hotel — typically in the Wangfujing or Dongcheng area for easy access to the historic centre. Afternoon orientation walk through Tiananmen Square and the surrounding area, with context on the political and cultural history. Evening in the Wangfujing area or a Peking duck dinner.

• Private airport transfer and hotel check-in
• Tiananmen Square orientation and context walk
• Evening Peking Duck dinner — a classic first night in Beijing
• Briefing on the days ahead and site entry logistics

A full morning inside the Forbidden City — timed entry arranged to avoid peak crowds. Your guide provides context on imperial history, court life, and architecture as you move through the palace complex. Afternoon ascent to Jingshan Park for the classic rooftop view across the palace. Evening hutong walk or optional rickshaw tour through the old neighbourhoods.

• Timed Forbidden City entry — priority access arranged
• In-depth guide through the imperial palace rooms
• Jingshan Park — best viewpoint over the Forbidden City roofline
• Hutong neighbourhood walk at dusk

Early departure by private car to a quieter section of the Great Wall — Mutianyu is the standard choice for its restored walkways and relatively lower visitor density in the morning. Cable car up, walk along the battlements, and cable car or toboggan back down. Return to the city for a mid-afternoon visit to the Temple of Heaven complex and surrounding parkland.

• Private car to Mutianyu Great Wall — less crowded section
• Morning walk along the Wall with views over forested hills
• Temple of Heaven — architectural and ceremonial context
• Echo Wall and Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests

A relaxed final morning at the Summer Palace — lakeside gardens, painted galleries, and boat options if the season allows. Optional: visit to the 798 Art District if your interests lean contemporary. Private transfer to the airport with comfortable timing for afternoon or evening flights.

• Summer Palace — Kunming Lake and Longevity Hill
• Painted Long Corridor and Marble Boat
• Optional 798 Art District if time allows
• Private departure transfer to PEK or PKX