Day 01
Explore Tian'anmen Square and the Forbidden City
- Choose from several start times to suit your schedule, and meet your guide in your Beijing city hotel's lobby. Transfer by private vehicle to Tian'anmen Square to begin your walking tour. A private tour with a knowledgeable, entertaining guide is the best way to fully appreciate the impressive buildings and masterpieces inside the Forbidden City. The tour can also be customized and catered to families travelling with kids.
- Upon arrival, skip the security line to save time and head directly to Tian'anmen Square. Here, your guide will offer a detailed explanation of the surroundings. See many important buildings, including the Great Hall of the People, the National Museum, the Monument to the People's Heroes, Chairman Mao's Memorial Hall, the Front Gates, and more.
- Walk through the Tian'anmen Gate and head directly to the Forbidden City. Along the way, your guide will share the histories and stories of the most important buildings, immersing you in the history of the Ming and Qing dynasties. Throughout the tour, ask as many questions as you like and enjoy the personalized attention of your private guide as you get to know the history and stories of this massive palace.
- Follow your tour guide to explore many courtyards and halls inside the Forbidden City, such as the Hall of Great Harmony, the Hall of Central Harmony, and the Hall of Preserving Harmony. Then explore the living quarters of the imperial family at the Hall of Heavenly Purity, the Hall of Union, and the Hall of Earthly Tranquility. Afterwards, head to the Imperial Garden and admire beautiful flowers, hundred-year-old trees, pebble pavings, and more.
- After two hours, your tour will conclude before the North Gate of the Forbidden City. You will have time to explore more of the palace, or your guide will suggest where to go next and how to get there. Please note that the Forbidden City is not open on Monday.
