Beijing Food & Culture: Hutongs & Local Eats：

Throughout this five-day culinary adventure in Beijing, you will visit iconic sites like the Temple of Heaven and Forbidden City to experience the imperial grandeur and savor imperial cuisine. Walk through the hutongs to discover local street food such as Tofu Pudding, douzhi, and pot stickers. Explore authentic restaurants to try Beijing Peking duck and Mongolian-style barbecue. Each bite will be a taste of the city's rich history and culture.

Itinerary Summary

DAY PLACE HIGHLIGHTS

1 Beijing Arrival and Relax

2Tiananmen Square, Forbidden City, Jingshan Park, Beijing Roast Duck Dinner

3Farmhouse Lunch, Mongolian Hotpots Dinner, Mutianyu Great Wall

4Street Food in Hutong, Temple of Heaven, Guanghua Temple

5Vegetarian Lunch, Lama Temple

6 Beijing Departure

Itinerary

Day 1: Welcome to Beijing

Upon arrival, you will be picked up from the airport and transferred to your hotel.

If you are feeling energetic, it is recommended to explore Wangfujing Pedestrian Street, one of the city's most historical shopping streets with a variety of dining options for you to choose from.

Day 2: The Forbidden City & Beijing Roast Duck

Your first stop today is Tiananmen Square, an impressive square that demonstrates the supreme national dignity of present China.

Next, delve deep into the Forbidden City, an exquisite imperial palace that witnessed the historical transitions of ancient China. At one or two corners of its historical halls and courtyards, come upon cafes and restaurants offering a delightful fusion of innovative Chinese flavors.

For an expansive view of the entire Forbidden City, stop by Jingshan Park, which furnishes an outstanding position for admiring the grandeur of the palace complex. In the evening, reward yourself with the well-known Beijing roast duck, featuring crispy skin and succulent inside.

Day 3: Great Wall & Mongolian Hotpots Dinner

Embark on a journey to the Mutianyu Great Wall, where you can ascend its majestic walls by cable car and admire the breathtaking scenery.

During lunchtime, savor authentic countryside cuisine at a nearby farmhouse, immersing yourself in the local culture and hospitality.

Then, return to the city and have a short break at your hotel. The dinner will be at one of Beijing's famous old-brand Chinese Mongolian hotpot restaurants. Gather around a steaming hot pot, and indulge in the delicate and savory flavors of the sheep meat.

Day 4: Temple of Heaven & A Gourmet Discovery in Hutongs

Today, you will visit Temple of Heaven Park, overwhelmed by the elegance of its architectural beauty while observing or even joining in locals' morning exercises. Discover local food in the hutongs near Drum Tower. Taste famous street food such as fried liver, zhajiang noodles, pot stickers, and dumplings. Next, experience a Huang Baoche tour to discover the old alleys, and visit the Shichahai Museum to gain deeper insights into the history and charm of this ancient neighborhood.

Head to Guanghua Temple, an ancient Buddhist temple tucked away in the hutong, offering a serene and peaceful atmosphere for relaxation. Make your way to Houhai Lake, where you'll discover a variety of Beijing-style restaurants and cozy pubs worth exploring on your own.

Day 5: The Lama Temple & Vegetarian Lunch

Start your day by visiting Yonghe Temple, a prominent Tibetan Buddhist temple in Beijing. Nearby, explore the Confucius Temple and Guozijian, an ancient academy that once served as the highest educational institution in imperial China.

The lunch will be at Gongde Lin Restaurant, renowned for its extensive menu of flavorful vegetarian dishes. Afterward, head to a tea house with a long-standing history, like Lao She Teahouse. Participate in a tea art experience, savoring a variety of teas while enjoying the traditional Chinese ambiance and cultural performances at this iconic teahouse.

Day 6: Beijing, Departure

On your last day, depart from Beijing or continue your journey to other destinations. Reflect on the amazing culinary experiences you've had during your food tour of Beijing.