Private tour

Unveil Beijing: Hutong, History, and Handcrafted Memories

Discover the real Beijing in one unforgettable day - walk through historic hutongs, visit ancient temples, explore old foreign legations, shop like a local, and create your own Chinese art piece.

Select participants and date

Highlights

Stroll through Liulichang & Dashilar for antiques, calligraphy, and old charm
Admire the European-style architecture in Beijing’s quiet old embassy district
Wander through Shijia and Dongsi Hutong to glimpse traditional households
Explore a local market to experience an authentic slice of Beijing daily life
Visit 798 Art Zone and create crafts: lacquer inlay, cloisonné, & herbal sachet

Full Description

Cultural Street & Dashilar Historical District: Start your day in one of Beijing’s oldest cultural hubs, where ancient bookstores, calligraphy shops, and antique markets line the stone-paved alleys. Then stroll into Dashilar, a lively old shopping street filled with traditional courtyards, time-honored brands, and nostalgic architecture.

Dongjiaominxiang Former Embassy District: Walk down this elegant boulevard once known as Beijing’s diplomatic street. It’s dotted with 19th-century Western-style buildings, old embassies, and churches. A quiet, photogenic area that offers a glimpse into the city’s international past.

Zhihua Temple: Tucked away in the city center, this serene Buddhist temple is one of the best-preserved wooden structures from the Ming Dynasty. Admire the ancient architecture and learn about Jing music—a form of traditional temple music that originated here.

Shijia Hutong Museum & Dongsi Alley Walk: Discover real Beijing life through Shijia Hutong’s immersive museum, housed in a classic courtyard home. Then wander through the Dongsi hutong neighborhood, where old Beijing rhythm meets daily life—lined with bicycles, potted plants, and chatting neighbors.

Zhaojunsheng Market: Step into this vibrant community market, where locals buy vegetables, spices, snacks, and seasonal fruits. You can sample sugar cakes or candied hawthorn sticks and chat with friendly vendors—an authentic slice of Beijing’s daily life.

798 Art District & Traditional Handicraft Workshop: Explore Beijing’s famous contemporary art zone. Formerly a military factory, it now houses graffiti walls, concept galleries, and quirky design shops. Then, dive into a hands-on cultural workshop to enjoy a hands-on experience that blends aesthetics and tradition: a) Lacquer Inlay (Luodian): Learn how to cut and polish natural shells to create shimmering patterns on pendants or bracelets. b) Cloisonné Enameling (Shaolan): Try your hand at this centuries-old enamel technique, fusing colorful glazes onto metal to form vibrant jewelry. c) Herbal Scent Sachet Sewing: Stitch a fragrant sachet filled with traditional Chinese herbs—a symbol of health and seasonal harmony.

Includes

Convenient Pickup: Pickup and drop-off from anywhere in Beijing city (within our specified area). Your dedicated staff will confirm pickup details the evening before.
Group Size: 1-6 people (larger groups may inquire about custom options).
Language: Guided in your selected language for a smooth experience.
Tour Duration: Approximately 10 hours.
Tickets: Traditional Handicraft Workshop.
Two local snacks & drinks will be provided during the day.

Not Included

Lunch: not included. Guests will be recommended some lunch options by the guide.
Other personal expenses
Tips: Not included, but our guests can decide at their discretionary.

Not Suitable For

Wheelchair users
People with mobility impairments

Important Information

Wear comfortable walking shoes
Bring sun protection and rain gear as needed
Tour operates rain or shine

Guest Reviews

Emma - UK

"This tour gave me a deeper look into Beijing’s culture and daily life. I really enjoyed chatting with locals at the Zhaojunsheng market and walking through the quiet Dongsi alleys. The art and handicraft session was inspiring—very relaxing and meaningful. Highly recommended!"

Daniel - USA

"A fantastic mix of old and new! We started the day surrounded by traditional culture in Liulichang, then ended in the edgy art district. The cloisonné jewelry workshop was so fun and the hosts were patient and helpful. Great way to experience Beijing beyond the usual tourist spots."

Aya - Japan

"I loved exploring Beijing’s hidden gems on this tour. The embassy street and Zhihua Temple felt like stepping back in time. The hutong walk was a peaceful contrast to the art buzz of 798. The craft workshop was a highlight—I made a mother-of-pearl bracelet and a herbal sachet to bring home!"