Tailored Travel
Old Beijing · Through the Eyes of a Beijing Dàye
About This Journey
This four-day journey takes you through both the iconic sights and the everyday life of Beijing—not as an observer, but through real connections with the people who live here. You walk through the Forbidden City, explore quiet gardens, step into hutong neighborhoods, and spend time in local markets, teahouses, and shared meals alongside local hosts, vendors, and families you meet along the way. Among them, a Beijing Dàye might be the one who slows you down—not with a lecture, but with a gesture: a nod toward a hidden noodle stall, a story about the tree that's outlasted three dynasties, or simply the quiet company of two stools on a hutong corner. By the end, Beijing feels less like a destination you visited, and more like a place you briefly lived in.
Why This Journey
Step into Tiananmen Square and walk through the Forbidden City, experiencing the most iconic gateway into China's imperial past in one journey.
Take in sweeping mountain views from atop the Mutianyu Great Wall, one of the most unforgettable landscapes in China.
Ride through Beijing's historic hutongs by rickshaw, chatting with a Beijing Dàye as he points out hidden courtyards and shares the timeless rhythm of old Beijing life.
Browse a local neighborhood market and learn to make handmade dumplings with a Beijing host, experiencing real everyday Chinese life from market to table.
Itinerary
Start your Old Beijing journey in the Forbidden City, walking through vast courtyards and quiet gates where imperial life once unfolded. From Jingshan Park, take in the view over the city's historic center, where the scale and layout of Old Beijing become clear at a glance.
As the day continues, step into the lived-in rhythm of old Beijing. Ride through Shichahai's hutongs by rickshaw with a Beijing Dàye as your guide—he'll greet residents at doorways, trade banter with street vendors, and show you the unhurried life that hums just beyond the tourist trail. As evening falls, wander into Nanluoguxiang's bustling lanes, where old-timers on bamboo stools quietly observe the vibrant mix of locals, travelers, and street vendors sharing the same narrow alleys in a blend of tradition and contemporary buzz.
The day ends over a classic Peking duck dinner, enjoy one of Beijing's most iconic culinary traditions. Famous for its crispy golden skin and tender meat, Peking duck is expertly carved tableside and served with delicate pancakes, scallions, cucumber, and savory sauce. This classic dining experience offers a delicious introduction to Beijing's rich food culture and centuries-old culinary heritage.
Hotels
XinXiangYaYuan Courtyard
XinXiangYaYuan Courtyard is a traditional courtyard-style boutique hotel near Tiananmen and Wangfujing, offering a quiet stay in central Beijing. It features classic siheyuan architecture with simple, modern comforts, ideal for experiencing authentic Hutong atmosphere.
Photo Gallery
What's Included & Excluded
What's Included
- All admission fees and activity expenses, as noted in the itinerary
- 3 nights' accommodation with daily breakfast included
- English-speaking guide for 4 days
- Local transportation throughout the itinerary
- Private chauffeur service to/from airport or railway station at the start and end of your trip
- Travel insurance for 2 days
- 24/7 online travel assistance throughout the trip
What's Excluded
- All admission fees and activity costs not explicitly included in the itinerary
- Any optional, recommended, or self-funded items listed in the itinerary
- All meals, snacks, and beverages other than breakfast and the Imperial Banquet on Day 3
- Gratuities for driver and guide (at guest's discretion)
- Personal expenses, including shopping, souvenirs, and other items of a personal nature
Booking & Payment
How do I book this tour?
Ready to start your China journey? Click "Start Your Journey" in the upper right corner to fill out the inquiry form, or send an email to hello@localechina.com and include your travel preferences. One of our travel designers will get in touch with you promptly to craft a one-of-a-kind itinerary, tailored just for you.
What is the payment schedule?
A. Deposit: To begin reserving your arrangements, we ask for a deposit of 30% of the total trip cost per person. This deposit goes directly toward your trip and will be deducted from your final payment.
B. Full payment: Final payment for your trip is due 30 days before departure. If you book within 30 days of your travel date, full payment will be required at the time of booking. We accept credit card, international bank transfer, WeChat, and Alipay.
What is your cancellation policy?
See our full booking conditions here.
Why LocaleChina
Because great journeys are built on local knowledge. Unlike large international operators, we're based right here in China — meaning faster response, deeper connections, and authentic experiences you can't book online.
- Insider access · Skip-the-line VIP entry, hidden viewpoints, and private cultural encounters
- Full service, no hidden costs · Private GL8 transport, expert guides, and hand-picked accommodations — all arranged
- Real-time support · 24/7 local assistance before and during your trip