A best day tour to the Forbidden City and Great Wall is all about smart planning, comfort, and access to the most iconic landmarks in one efficient, unforgettable day. Skip-the-line tickets and timed entries mean no waiting in huge crowds at Forbidden city, and you will get access to lesser-known areas (like the Treasure Gallery or Clock Exhibition Hall) that most tourists miss. A knowledgeable guide brings the history to life—sharing stories about emperors, concubines, court life, and ancient politics. Instead of touristy Badaling, top day tours often go to Mutianyu—less crowded, beautiful, and offers cable cars or toboggan rides for added fun. You get maximum value in minimum time, combining two of China’s most legendary sites with comfort, depth, and style.
You will be picked up from your preferred place with your name paper.
Morning pick up from your hotel by tour guide and private car, then you will be taken to the largest city square in the world- Tiananmen Square, you will be guided to see the monument to the people's hero, and get an external visit to the grand conference hall, national museum,etc. Notice: Please have your passport with you for security check.
You will walk through the Tiananmen gate(the landmark of Beijing city) to Forbidden City with guide.
The Taihedian (Hall of Supreme Harmony) is the largest and most important hall within the Forbidden City in Beijing. Built during the Ming Dynasty in the early 15th century, it served as the ceremonial center of imperial power. Major state events such as the emperor’s enthronement, weddings, New Year celebrations, and important imperial ceremonies were held here. The hall stands on a three-tiered white marble terrace and is beautifully decorated with golden roof tiles, intricate wooden carvings, and symbolic dragon motifs, reflecting the majesty of the emperor’s authority. At its heart is the Dragon Throne, symbolizing the emperor’s supreme status as the “Son of Heaven.” Today, Taihedian is one of the most iconic landmarks of the Forbidden City, showcasing the grandeur and political significance of ancient Chinese imperial architecture.
The Zhonghedian (Hall of Central Harmony) is one of the three main halls on the central axis of the Forbidden City in Beijing. It is smaller than the grand Taihedian (Hall of Supreme Harmony) and served as a transitional space for the emperor. Before major ceremonies, the emperor would rest here, review speeches, rehearse rituals, or receive close officials. The name “Central Harmony” reflects the Confucian ideal of balance and moderation. Architecturally, the hall is built on a marble platform and features elegant wooden structures with golden roof tiles, consistent with the majestic style of the Forbidden City. Though modest compared to its neighboring halls, Zhonghedian played an important role in ensuring the smooth conduct of imperial ceremonies.
The Baohedian (Hall of Preserving Harmony) is the northernmost of the three great halls on the central axis of the Forbidden City in Beijing. Built during the Ming Dynasty, it was used for different purposes throughout imperial history. In the Ming era, it often hosted banquets for nobles and high-ranking officials. During the Qing Dynasty, it became the venue for the final stage of the imperial examination, where top scholars competed for the prestigious title of jinshi. The hall stands on the same elevated marble terrace as Taihedian and Zhonghedian, featuring magnificent architecture with golden roof tiles and intricate decorations. Its name, “Preserving Harmony,” symbolizes the emperor’s role in maintaining unity and stability in the empire. Today, Baohedian is an important highlight of the Forbidden City, offering visitors a glimpse into the cultural and political traditions of imperial China.
The Jiulongbi (Nine-Dragon Screen) in Beijing is one of the most famous decorative walls in China. Located inside the Forbidden City, near the Palace of Tranquil Longevity, it was built in 1773 during the reign of Emperor Qianlong of the Qing Dynasty. The screen is about 29 meters long, 3.5 meters high, and covered with beautifully glazed tiles. On its surface, nine vividly carved and brightly colored dragons soar among waves and clouds, symbolizing imperial power, strength, and good fortune. Each dragon is depicted in dynamic motion, making the screen both artistic and symbolic. The Jiulongbi was designed to serve as a spirit wall, blocking evil influences from entering the palace, while also showcasing the grandeur of imperial craftsmanship. Today, it remains a striking example of traditional Chinese glazed-tile art and a popular attraction for visitors to the Forbidden City.
Forbidden City used to be the residence for the emperors of the Ming and Qing Dynasties (1368-1911). After visit at Forbidden city, a lunch will be organized nearby or you will be taken to the Great Wall (about 1.5 hours drive) and have lunch there before visit Great Wall. Since Forbidden city is closed on Monday, so we will take you to see Jingshan park where you can take bird's eye view to the whole Forbidden city .
As one of the most popular restored great wall sections in Beijing, Mutianyu offers a relaxing journey to a higher point of the great wall by cable car service(pay extra). Upon arrival, you may enjoy a stroll along the long stretch of the great wall. Later, you may either choose to walk down from the mountain or take another exciting Mutianyu Great Wall Toboggan(pay extra) slide down.The architecture of Mutianyu Great Wall is of a special style in that it has more watchtowers than any other section and was constructed with defensive battlements on both sides of the wall, rather than just facing to the north, as with most other sections. After visit at Great Wall, you will be escorted back to your hotel. Lovely tour ends!
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
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