City Essence (Temple of Heaven & Summer Palace)
Discover Beijing's spiritual heart at the Temple of Heaven, then escape to the emperors' magnificent lakeside retreat at the Summer Palace.
Highlights
Detailed Itinerary
Pick-up
Airport Meet & Greet
Your guide meets you at the arrival hall. Drive to central Beijing (approx. 40 minutes).
1.5 Hours
Temple of Heaven
Explore this masterpiece of Ming Dynasty architecture where emperors prayed for good harvests. Marvel at the Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests, walk through the Imperial Vault of Heaven, and see the famous Echo Wall. Stroll through ancient cypress trees that are over 600 years old.
2.5 Hours
Summer Palace Exploration
Explore this stunning imperial garden. Walk along the Long Corridor, visit the Hall of Benevolence and Longevity, see the Marble Boat, and enjoy the lakeside scenery.
Optional
Boat Ride on Kunming Lake
If weather permits and time allows, enjoy a relaxing boat ride on the beautiful Kunming Lake (seasonal, own expense).
Return
Back to Airport
Comfortable return to the airport, arriving with plenty of time for your next flight.
What's Included
Customer Reviews
Lisa Chen
Canada • January 2026
Beautiful tour! The Summer Palace is absolutely stunning. Our guide was very knowledgeable about the history and took great photos for us.
Robert Brown
USA • December 2025
Excellent layover tour. Tiananmen Square was impressive and the Summer Palace was peaceful and gorgeous. Highly recommend!
Anna Kowalski
Poland • November 2025
Very nice tour. The Long Corridor paintings are amazing. Would have loved more time at the Summer Palace but understand the time constraints.
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