Join a free walking tour of Beijing’s Imperial City and historic Hutongs. Explore Beijing on a free walking tour that takes you through the Imperial City and historic Hutongs. Discover ancient palaces, traditional courtyard homes, and hidden alleyways while learning about local culture, emperors, and everyday life from a knowledgeable local guide.
10:00AM Morning Tour
15:00PM Afternoon Tour
Times may vary—please check the calendar for current availability.
📍 Look for the PANDA flag at the meeting point.
⏰ Please arrive 5–10 minutes early.
🔒 Advance booking required.
Metro line 8 Nan luo gu xiang station exit E
📍Address:
Di’anmen East Street and Nanluoguxiang
In Chinese： 地铁8号线南锣鼓巷站 E出口, 地安门东大街和南锣鼓巷交叉口.
Bell and Drum Towers, just a short walk from Shichahai Metro Station (Line 8).
(Chinese: 钟鼓楼，近8号线什刹海地铁站)
Please note:
The tour does not include entry to the Bell and Drum Towers. However, after the tour, feel free to visit these iconic landmarks on your own.
Comfortable walking shoes
Personal skincare essentials
Cash for tipping – Show appreciation to your guide at the end.
(Suggested tip: 200–250 RMB / 25–30 USD or EUR per person)
An open mind – Bring curiosity and a sense of adventure!
Discover the real Beijing on the Beijing Imperial City and Historic Hutong Free Walking Tour. This route is carefully curated to showcase authentic, lesser-known areas that reveal the true character of old Beijing — away from the crowds and commercial zones.
Nanluoguxiang Lane – A lively street blending traditional hutong charm with modern local culture
Mao’er Hutong – One of the city’s most iconic and well-preserved hutongs
Former Residence of Empress Wanrong – Learn the poignant story of China’s last empress
Former Residence of the President of the Republic of China – A hidden gem with historical significance
Doujiao Hutong, Fangzhuanchang Hutong, Xiaoshibei Hutong, Dashibei Hutong – Quiet, residential lanes rarely explored by tourists
Houhai Lake (Shichahai) – A scenic area lined with willows and historic architecture
Houhai Bar Street – One of Beijing’s oldest nightlife districts, rich in local flavor
Smoking Pipe Street (Yandai Xiejie) – A traditional commercial alley with centuries of history
Drum Tower and Bell Tower (outside view only) – Ancient structures once used to keep time in imperial Beijing
During the tour, your guide will explain the unique cultural and historical context of Beijing’s hutongs and courtyards, including:
The origin and meaning of hutongs and their place in Beijing’s urban design
The traditional layout of old Beijing, including feng shui principles in courtyard homes
Why hutongs reflect a wide socioeconomic range — from wealthy compounds to modest dwellings
The rise and fall of hutong life through dynasties and modernization
The stories of Empress Wanrong and Emperor Puyi, and their connection to these alleyways
The mysteries behind the gates of siheyuan homes and the symbolism in their design
How locals lived, told time using ancient methods, and enjoyed foods like zhajiangmian
The significance of mythical creatures often seen in hutong decorations
This tour is ideal for those interested in Beijing’s authentic culture, history, and architecture, offering an in-depth look at how the city’s past lives on in its alleyways today.
As a tip-based tour, you decide the value! Simply tip your guide at the end based on your experience — no upfront cost, no pressure. This model ensures our passionate local guides always give their best to make your tour unforgettable.
Suggested Tip: 200–250 RMB (25–30 USD/Euro) per person.
Feel free to reach out and we're happy to answer any questions you may have.
I loved this Beijing Imperial City and Hutong free walking tour. It was a perfect blend of culture and history, showing hidden gems that are off the typical tourist path. The tour started conveniently near the Bell Tower metro station, making it easy to join. Afterward, I enjoyed exploring the beautiful Houhai lakeside area. A must-do walking tour in Beijing!
Isabella M., Italy
This free walking tour of Beijing’s historic neighborhoods offered deep insights into the city’s culture and architecture. Visiting the Drum and Bell Towers along with lesser-known hutongs gave me a unique perspective on Beijing’s past and present. The guide was engaging and informative, making it a perfect introduction to Beijing’s old city areas. Highly recommended for first-time visitors.
Charlotte L., Australia
This free walking tour in Beijing was an incredible way to explore the authentic hutongs and historic Imperial City. Our knowledgeable guide shared fascinating stories about traditional courtyard homes, local culture, and Beijing’s rich history. Walking through quiet, less-touristy alleys made the experience truly unique. Highly recommended for travelers seeking an authentic Beijing tour.
Michael T., USA
No, advance booking is required. We carefully manage group sizes to ensure the best experience for everyone.and keep you updated about any changes or cancellations. Booking is quick, easy, and completely free—it only takes 2 minutes!
Yes! You’ll get a confirmation email within 30′ after booking. One day before the tour, your guide will send you a welcome email with their contact details and important tour information. Please double-check that you provide a correct and working email address.
Wear comfortable walking shoes and bring sunscreen, a hat or cap, and a bottle of water. Don’t forget your curiosity—we love answering questions! During the rainy season, an umbrella or raincoat is also recommended.
The morning tour runs from 09:00 AM to 13:00 PM, lasting approximately 4 hours. The afternoon tour run from 1:30 PM to 5:30 PM, lasting around 3 .5 to 4 hours. Times may vary slightly depending on the pace and group size.
Yes! Our tours run rain or shine, so please dress accordingly. In the rare case of extreme weather (such as a typhoon or severe storm), we may cancel the tour for safety reasons. You’ll receive a welcome email the day before the tour with weather updates and any changes if necessary.
While tipping isn’t a traditional custom in China, our local guides work hard to offer you the best possible experience. As our tours are tip-based, your gratuity is not only appreciated—it’s how our guides earn a living. Tipping is seen as a sign of respect and satisfaction, and your generosity goes a long way in supporting passionate local experts.
Yes! We offer private tours for groups of 15 or more. Whether you’re a family, school, company, or travel group, our Private Group Walking Tours or bus tours can be customized to your interests and schedule.
Not at all! Our 4 to 4.5-hour tour is thoughtfully paced with plenty of breaks to rest, take photos, and enjoy snacks. Many of our past guests—from toddlers in strollers to energetic seniors—have completed the tour comfortably. Just wear comfy shoes, stay curious, and enjoy the journey!
Yes! Every tour includes 1–2 short breaks for snacks, drinks, and toilet access. While we don’t stop at restaurants, you’ll get to enjoy authentic and affordable local street food along the way—perfect for a taste of Shanghai’s vibrant culinary scene!
All of our public free walking tours are conducted in English. However, we also offer private tours in Mandarin and Spanish upon request.
我們可以做中文私人訂製團。
Podemos hacer tours privados en español.
Make the most of your visit with our handpicked walking tours, food adventures, cultural experiences, and private day trips—crafted to help you see the real Beijing.
