A Foreign Tourist's Four-Day Beijing Travel Diary: Strolling Through the Millennial Imperial Capital and Experiencing the Charm of Old and New Beijing
As an France travel enthusiast, I joined a small, four-day "sightseeing-only" tour of Beijing with a close friend. The four-day, three-night itinerary offered excellent value; all costs were transparently priced from the start, with absolutely no hidden fees. Our guide, Kai, accompanied us throughout the trip; deeply knowledgeable about Beijing’s millennia-long history and legends, he was well-versed in the city's imperial monuments and traditional local culture. The pace was relaxed and comfortable, allowing us to fully immerse ourselves in the ancient capital's rich historical heritage and the vibrant, everyday life of the city.
Click here for a detailed itinerary.
1. Cost Guide
The four-day, three-night itinerary offered excellent value; all costs were transparently priced from the start, with absolutely no hidden fees. Our guide, Kai, accompanied us throughout the trip; deeply knowledgeable about Beijing’s millennia-long history and legends, he was well-versed in the city's imperial monuments and traditional local culture. The pace was relaxed and comfortable, allowing us to fully immerse ourselves in the ancient capital's rich historical heritage and the vibrant, everyday life of the city.
This is Riyue's WhatsApp +86 19522591430
Email: hunanVIP_intltravel_Riyue@hotmail.com
2. Daily Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive in Beijing, Visit the Palace Museum & Enjoy the Evening Breeze at Shichahai
After a long trip, we finally arrived in Beijing. This city has a grand layout, where ancient red-wall buildings stand side by side with modern skyscrapers. The majestic temperament of the imperial capital filled us with awe and anticipation.
·After checking into our accommodation, we headed straight for the core of the central axis — the Palace Museum. Walking among the grand imperial palaces, we saw crimson walls and golden glazed tiles stretching far away. The well-arranged halls are magnificent. Our guide told us detailed stories of the Ming and Qing dynasties, royal tales and ancient architectural aesthetics. It felt like travelling back hundreds of years to witness the glory of the ancient empire.
·In the late afternoon, we climbed Jingshan Park. From the top, we overlooked the whole Palace Museum. The sunset glow covered the Forbidden City, creating a spectacular view. When night fell, we strolled around Shichahai. Gentle wind swept across the lake, and soft lights lit up the nearby Hutongs. Away from the hustle of daytime, it shows the peaceful local life of old Beijing.
Day 2: Hike Mutianyu Great Wall, Overlook the Vast Northern Mountains
Today was the most anticipated day of our trip — visiting Mutianyu Great Wall. Compared with crowded scenic spots, it has gentler slopes, fewer visitors and fantastic panoramic views, making it a perfect place to admire the Great Wall.
·We took the cable car uphill. The Great Wall winds along the ridges of towering mountains, stretching endlessly across layered hills. We walked slowly on the weathered ancient bricks, touching the wall carved by time. We truly felt the wisdom and courage of ancient people who built this giant defence project.
·Standing at the high point, we saw rolling mountains extending to the horizon. The sunset gilded the Great Wall. Standing here in person, I finally understand the famous saying “He who has never been to the Great Wall is not a true man”. This is the breathtaking romance unique to northern China.
Day 3: Explore Imperial Gardens, Appreciate the Ancient Beauty of Summer Palace and Yuanmingyuan
We spent the whole day visiting two classic imperial gardens in Beijing. In the morning, we toured Yuanmingyuan. Walking inside the heritage site, the ruins of the Western-style buildings stand quietly, silently telling the vicissitudes of history, leaving us deeply touched. The park features wide lakes and lush plants, peaceful and elegant with beautiful scenery everywhere.
·In the afternoon, we visited the Summer Palace, the top imperial garden of the Qing Dynasty. Lakes and mountains set off each other with exquisite layout. We wandered along Kunming Lake, passed the painted long corridor, admired the delicate 17-Arch Bridge and the towering Tower of Buddhist Incense. Hills, water, pavilions and terraces perfectly show the charm of classical Chinese garden design, relaxing our minds completely.
·We roamed the gardens all day, escaping the noise of the city and savouring the poetic charm of ancient royal landscapes.
Day 4: Explore Imperial Gardens, Appreciate the Ancient Beauty of Summer Palace and Yuanmingyuan
On the last day of our trip, we visited Yonghe Temple, a solemn and peaceful Buddhist temple. With red walls and ancient cypresses, the grand halls combine Chinese and Tibetan architectural styles. Incense curls upward, creating a tranquil atmosphere that calms our hearts. We learned about religious culture and the history of this temple and experienced the unique Chinese praying culture.
·In the afternoon, we visited the Summer Palace, the top imperial garden of the Qing Dynasty. Lakes and mountains set off each other with exquisite layout. We wandered along Kunming Lake, passed the painted long corridor, admired the delicate 17-Arch Bridge and the towering Tower of Buddhist Incense. Hills, water, pavilions and terraces perfectly show the charm of classical Chinese garden design, relaxing our minds completely.
·Our four-day journey in the ancient capital came to an end. Grand imperial palaces, magnificent Great Wall, elegant gardens and lively Hutongs blend ancient and modern beauty. The profound history and gentle vitality of this thousand-year-old city left us irreplaceable precious memories.
4. Personal Suggestion
• All popular historic sites, gardens and temples in Beijing require real-name reservation in advance. Tickets are limited during peak seasons. Please book ahead to avoid ruining your schedule.
• Scenic spots are far apart in Beijing. Plan your daily route wisely and visit attractions in the same area together to reduce travel time and save energy.
• There is a big temperature difference between day and night in northern China. A light jacket is recommended all year round for cool mornings and evenings.
• A large amount of walking is required at imperial scenic spots. Wear comfortable non-slip sports shoes for a pleasant trip.
Share Riyue's whatsApp: +8619522591430
Riyue's email address: hunanVIP_intltravel_Riyue@hotmail.com
Riyue's wechat ID: 19522591430
