Lama Temple, Hutong, Drum Tower & Dumpling Lunch

Highlights

• Savor snacks favorites among Beijing locals near the Lama Temple
• Feel China's deep respect for education at the Imperial College.
• Taste Beijing's signature snacks along Yandai Xiejie
• Enjoy Beijing's specialty restaurants at Houhai, then unwind at one of its bars.

Description

This tour is a historic journey that also takes you to food streets and show you the restaurants cherished by Beijing locals — a relaxed and delightful experience all around. Begin your day by meeting your guide at the Exit F of Yonghegong Lama Temple subway station, then head to Yonghegong Lama Temple, a renowned Tibetan Buddhist monastery. Listen to distant morning bells and evening drums, and immerse yourself in the allure of Buddhist culture. Next, take a short walk to the adjacent Confucius Temple and Imperial College. It preserves numerous Ming and Qing dynasty buildings and stone inscriptions. Around noon, it's time to dig into one of Beijing's most beloved comfort foods: dumplings (jiaozi). Head to a popular local dumpling restaurant, where you'll find a variety of fillings to choose from — each carrying its own auspicious meaning. Celery (qincai) symbolizes hard work leading to a prosperous life; leek (jiucai) represents everlasting wealth; and cabbage (baicai) stands for a hundred ways of making a fortune. It's the perfect way to refuel with both delicious food and good luck for the afternoon ahead. Next, visit the Drum Tower. Climb up to overlook the landscape of old Beijing, then enjoy a captivating drum performance. The powerful drumbeats seem to echo Beijing's long history, drawing you deeper into its traditional culture. Afterward, head to Yandai Xiejie and Houhai. Yandai Xiejie (Tobacco Pouch Slanted Street) is a charming old street full of Beijing character, lined with unique shops, handicraft stores, and snack stalls. Houhai, part of the scenic Shichahai lake area, is where the flavors really come alive. Snack on Tanghulu (candied hawthorn berries on a stick), Baodu (quick-boiled tripe), Lǚdagunr (glutinous rice rolls with red bean filling, coated in soybean flour), and Milk Skin Yogurt (yogurt topped with a layer of clotted cream). Sip on Douzhir, a traditional Beijing-style fermented mung bean drink, or try bubble tea, a modern twist blending traditional Chinese tea culture with today's flavors. For something more substantial, treat yourself to authentic Peking duck or a steaming bowl of mutton hot pot. As evening falls, Houhai transforms into Beijing's nightlife spots, with bars and pubs buzzing with energy along the waterfront.

Includes

Taste delicious snacks Visit to Confucius Temple and Imperial College Lunch at a dumpling restaurant Hutong walk Beijing traditional yogurt experience Visit to Drum Tower Visit to Yandai Xiejie Visit to Houhai Bar Street

Excludes

Drinks at Houhai Bar Street

Important Information

• The tour involves a lot of walking, so comfortable shoes are recommended. Bring cash for personal expenses and purchases. Photography is allowed in most areas, but check for restrictions in specific sites.

Easy cancellation

Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund