Beijing Private Layover Tour including Ming Tombs, Bird’s Nest and Hutong

Your tour guide will meet you at exit of the airport with the welcoming board on which your name will be written at 08:30 a.m.. Then, we will transfer to the Ming Tombs and start the highlight day tour. The Ming Tombs are a must-see for history buffs. A series of temple-like structures and burial mounds, the Ming Tombs contain the remains of 13 of the 16 emperors who ruled China during the Ming Dynasty (1368 to 1644). Of the 13 tombs, three are open to the public and accessible via a statue-lined path called the Sacred Way, where the carvings of mythical animals and legendary figures are believed to ward off evil spirits. The Ming Tombs Museum sits just behind the ticket office and offers a short introduction to each of the 13 entombed emperors.

In the afternoon, we will drive back to Beijing downtown. We will visit the Central Section of Beijing Olympic Park - the Bird's Nest and the Water Cube. Beijing Olympic Park, also known as the Olympic Green. Beijing Olympic Park is where the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games and Paralympics took place. It also will be where the 2022 Winter Olympics takes place. Afterward, it was transformed into a comprehensive multifunctional activity center for the public. It contains the main venues used during the 2008 Summer Olympic Games and Paralympic Games, such as the Bird’s Nest and the Water Cube.

The Drum Tower was equipped with bronze clepsydras and drums that were beaten to mark the hours. The drum was beaten quickly for 18 times and then slowly for 18 times to mark the hour. You have the opportunity to climb to the top of Drum tower for an excellent view of drumming performance which lasts for 20 minutes.

Houhai, which literally means "Back Sea", is a large artificial lake in northern downtown Beijing. Together with Qianhai (Front Sea) and Xihai (West Sea), it comprises Shichahai. It was exclusively for royal family in the Yuan Dynasty (1271-1368), and the surrounding area has been a prosperous commercial area since then. There were many wine shops, workshops, and opera stages in ancient times. Nowadays, it is open to all. The area is dotted with bars, cafes, tea houses and restaurants, and is quite popular among foreign visitors and local young people. In addition, the neighboring Hutongs and courtyards of former court officials and celebrities are worth a visit. We will walk along Hutong, taste snacks and experience the local lifestyle.

Know as Yandai Xiejie in Chinese, the Yandaixie Street is one of the oldest hutongs in Beijing. Located in the Xicheng District, it is close to the Shichahai which are famous attractions in Beijing. Since the olden days, Yandaixiejie Street has been one of the most flourishing commercial areas in Beijing. The stores are closely packed along the street, and a wide variety of souvenirs with Beijing characteristics can be found there.

Nanluoguxiang Hutong is known for its authentic Beijing atmosphere. The age-old siheyuans, archways, wall carvings, and former residences of socialites can be found there. Today there has been an unprecedented fusion of East and West in Nanluoguxiang Hutong, where new pubs and restaurants have given it an urban appearance. Afterwards, enjoy comfortable transfer back to Beijing Capital International Airport to catch your flight or your hotel, and your layover tour ends.