Highlights
- Explore Beijing's historic Shichahai district on a guided tour
- Ride through the narrow lanes of the Shichahai Historic District
- Visit a private Siheyuan courtyard and learn about local life
- Choose between a dumpling-making or calligraphy workshop
- Enjoy a freshly prepared courtyard lunch based on your workshop choice
Description
Meet your licensed English-speaking cultural guide at Shichahai Metro Station (Exit A1) to begin your journey into Beijing's historic core. After a brief safety overview and introduction, step back in time into the neighborhood's atmospheric alleyways.
Climb aboard a traditional rickshaw and glide effortlessly through the narrow, winding lanes of the Shichahai Historic District. Feel the cooling lakeside breeze as your guide uncovers the captivating stories behind ancient hutong names and explains the structural details of historic residential doorways.
Enjoy excellent photography opportunities naturally integrated throughout the ride, capturing elders playing chess under ancient trees and hidden paths far removed from large tourist crowds.
Step through the painted timber threshold of an authentic, privately owned Siheyuan courtyard home. Welcomed warmly by your local host family, you will escape the city noise in a serene garden courtyard. Deepen your connection to Chinese culture by participating in your pre-selected hands-on workshop:
Option A – Dumpling Making Workshop: Dive into the heart of northern Chinese culinary arts. Under the patient guidance of a local instructor, learn to mix seasoned regional fillings, roll fresh dough into perfect circular wraps, and master classic folding techniques. As you cook your creations, discover the cultural significance of why dumplings symbolize wealth and family unity.
Option B – Chinese Calligraphy Workshop: Discover the meditative art of ink, brush, and motion. Learn proper brush grip and control from a local master, practicing foundational strokes before writing meaningful Chinese characters on premium rice paper. Transform your practice into a beautiful, personalized calligraphy scroll to take home as a timeless souvenir.
Gather around a traditional table in the peaceful courtyard garden to enjoy a fresh, rewarding meal. If you selected Option A, savor the steaming, flavor-packed dumplings you prepared by hand. If you selected Option B, enjoy a selection of traditional local snacks.
Includes
Professional, licensed English-speaking local guide
Traditional Rickshaw Ride experience through Shichahai
Exclusive admission to a private Siheyuan Courtyard
Choice of one premium cultural workshop (Dumpling Making or Calligraphy) including all materials
Freshly prepared Courtyard Lunch
Complimentary bottled mineral water provided during the tour
Excludes
Shared Group Tour Option: Hotel pickup and drop-off transfers
Personal Expenses
Gratuities
Easy cancellation
Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund
