From Ancient to Modern: Beijing´s Complete Introduction

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Beijing

Duration: 2 hours and 15 minutes

Languages: English

Guru: Haotong

PRO

Verified quality

Registered on 26 September 2023

Born in Germany, my parents moved to Frankfurt when I was 5 years old. Growing up in Frankfurt with an immigrant background has been one of the most wonderful gifts. I'm excited to welcome you to one of Germany's most international cities. Passionate about traveling and connecting culture, history, and language, I began my career as a tour guide. As someone who loves to travel, I know what it's like to arrive in a new city. Therefore, I will do my best to introduce you to the city. My goal is to make you feel not only like a traveler, but also a part of Frankfurt. During the tour, you'll receive tips and recommendations on restaurants, attractions, and interesting facts about my hometown, Frankfurt. Come and discover Frankfurt like a local and immerse yourself in its fascinating stories.

Free reservation and cancellation

Pay-what-you-want tour, no set price, reservation and cancellation are free

Tour description

Complete Introduction to Beijing - from ancient empire to technological superpower..

Discover the heartbeat of China’s capital!
Join us for a 2-hour journey through time as we explore Beijing’s transformation — from ancient imperial city to modern-day powerhouse. This tour is perfect for first-time visitors who want to see more than just tourist sites. We start at the historic Drum Tower and walk through a mix of old alleyways, scenic lakes, and cultural landmarks — all while learning about the real Beijing, past and present.
You’ll stroll through quiet hutongs, pass by beautiful Shichahai Lake, climb to a stunning viewpoint over the Forbidden City, and finish with tips for exploring modern Beijing on your own.

Note:
- Entrance fees for ShichaHai Park and JingShan are NOT included

- Make sure to bring your passport

📍 Highlights include:
- Drum Tower – where time once ruled the empire

- Traditional hutongs and local daily life

- Local food recommendations in the Si Cha Hai Food corridor

- Scenic Shichahai Lake and old Beijing charm

- Huode Zhenjun Temple

- Panoramic view of the Forbidden City from Jingshan Park

- Holisitic Understanding of how modern China evolved and historic ties to Beijing

- Stories of emperors, families, revolutions, and today’s digital life

- Tips on food, apps, travel, and cultural do’s & don’ts

Whether you're here for one day or one month, this tour gives you the perfect introduction to Beijing — past, present, and future.

Highlights

What will we see on this tour?

Meeting point:

China, Bei Jing Shi, Dong Cheng Qu, Andingmen, Zhong Lou Wan Hu Tong, 临9号邮政编码: 100009

I will wait for you in front of the Drum tower (North gate) Chinese:北京鼓楼北门。 You will recognize me by my pink umbrella.

Outside visit

Beijing Bell and Drum Towers

Start your journey at Beijing’s historic Drum and Bell Towers — the original time-keeping center of the city. Learn how ancient sound rhythms once organized daily life, and how this connects to China’s evolution into a data-driven society today.

Outside visit

Hongyuan Courtyard

Step into a preserved hutong courtyard (siheyuan) to explore how everyday life looked in imperial times — and how these communities are adapting to Beijing’s modern urban identity.

Outside visit

Houhai Snack Street

Wander through this bustling food alley full of authentic Beijing street snacks. It’s the perfect spot to experience the city’s changing food culture, from traditional favorites to new foodie trends.

How much does this tour cost?

Free tours do not have a set price, instead, each person gives the guru at the end the amount they consider appropriate (amounts usually range from €15 to $50 depending on satisfaction with the tour).