Grand China Travel

Classic Beijing Tour 4 Days

Classic Beijing Tour 4 Days
• Tour Code: BCP05
• Starting from: USD208 per person
• Trip Duration: 4 Days
• Departure Dates: Upon request at your time of convenience
• Destinations: Great Wall, Ming Tomb, Tian'anmen Square, Forbidden City, Summer Palace, Temple of Heaven

 

  • Tour Introduction
    Beijing is a city with over 2000 years' of history, with one of the oldest cultures on Earth. It has been the Chinese capital for over 850 years (Yuan Dynasty, Ming Dynasty & Qing Dynasty). This 4 days of Classic Beijing Tour will make full use of time in Beijing to explore this both ancient and modern city's dynamic history and culture. We will visit all the world heritage sites in this Chinese capital; the Forbidden City, the Great Wall; the Ming Tombs; the Summer Palace & Temple of Heaven.
    Day 1: Arrival in Beijing, Meet & Greet at Airport, Transfer to Hotel
    Meals Included: No meals available
    Accommodation: City Inn Beijing or similar (please email us your choice of hotel if you have)
     
    Our GCT representative will meet you at the airport and assists you to your hotel. Relax during the remainder of the afternoon and evening to recover from the jet lag.
    Day 2: Tian’anmen Square, Forbidden City, the Temple of Heaven
    Meals Included: Breakfast & lunch
    Accommodation: City Inn Beijing or similar (please email us your choice of hotel if you have)
    Optional Tour: Acrobatic show performance with Chinese dinner
     
    We will start to explore Beijing from the Tian’anmen Square which is the largest city square in the world, bordered by the Great Hall of the People and Chairman Mao’s Mausoleum, then tour the Forbidden City, the complex of imperial palace, which was home to the Emperors for over 500 years. Grand halls and courts gradually give way to more intimate domestic quarters, giving an insight into the pampered isolation of the emperors. After lunch we will visit the Temple of Heaven where Chinese emperors pray for good harvest in the ancient times. 
    Day 3: The Great Wall of China, Ming Tombs, Jade Museum
    Meals Included: Breakfast & lunch
    Accommodation: City Inn Beijing or similar (please email us your choice of hotel if you have)
    Optional Tour: Chinese Kungfu show with Chinese dinner
     
    Today is the highlight of our China tour, the climbing of the Great Wall of China. In 220 B.C., under Qin Shihuang, the first emperor of China, sections of earlier fortifications were joined together to form a united defense system against invasions from the north. Construction of the great wall continued up to the Ming dynasty (1368-1644), when the Great Wall became the world's largest military structure. Its historic and strategic importance is matched only by its architectural significance. After lunch we will visit the Ming Tombs. Constructed for the 13 emperors of the Ming Dynasty, the Ming tombs follow the precepts of traditional Chinese geomancy and fengshui theory. They feature rich decoration of stone statues and carvings and tiles with dragon motifs, illustrating the development of the funerary architecture of the Ming Dynasty. 
    Day 4: Summer Palace, Departure from Beijing
    Meals Included: Breakfast 
     
    We will visit the Summer Palace in the morning. The Summer Palace, first built in 1750, largely destroyed in the war of 1860 and restored on its original foundations in 1886, is a masterpiece of Chinese landscape garden design. The natural landscape of hills and open water is combined with artificial features such as pavilions, halls, palaces, temples and bridges to form a harmonious ensemble of outstanding aesthetic value. We will do shopping at the local fresh water pearl shop. Transfer to the airport after lunch. However, should you wish to stay on rather than return home right away, we would suggest you choose our other Tour Packages as an extension to your China adventure!
    Reservation
    For reservation, please send an email to info@GrandChinaTravel.com. Please inform us: the tour code; the number of travelers; your name as appeared in passport; your passport number; the date of arrival in China and your international flight number. For details of payment, please read our Terms & Conditions.
  • Classic Beijing Tour 4 Days Tour Prices
     
    From Dec 01 to Feb 28, 2014
    2 pax: double occupancy rate: USD328pp; single occupancy rate: USD438pp
    3-5pax: Double occupancy rate: USD278pp; Single occupancy rate: USD388pp
    6-9pax: Double occupancy rate: USD228pp; Single occupancy rate: USD338pp
    Over 10pax: Double occupancy rate: USD208pp; Single occupancy rate: USD318pp
    Departure Dates: Date of your convenience
     
    From Mar 01 to Nov 30, 2014
    2 pax: double occupancy rate: USD348pp; single occupancy rate: USD468pp
    3-5pax: Double occupancy rate: USD298pp; Single occupancy rate: USD428pp
    6-9pax: Double occupancy rate: USD258pp; Single occupancy rate: USD398pp
    Over 10pax: Double occupancy rate: USD238pp; Single occupancy rate: USD358pp
    Departure Dates: Date of your convenience
     
    Booking Notice
    Tour starts in Beijing
    Tour ends in Beijing
    Tour Feature: Exclusive private tour (with private guide and private vehicle)
    Departure Dates: Upon request at your time of convenience
    Minimum of two persons are required at the time of booking
     
    Pricing Policy
    The prices are based on per person, twin sharing basis
    Infants (under 2 years of age) traveling with parents: free of charge
    Child (2-12 years of age) sharing a bed: 80% of the adult price
    Child (2-12 years of age) sharing no bed: 60% of the adult price
    Tour Price Inclusions
    Hotel accommodations with daily Buffet Breakfast at hotel
    Meals as specified (B for breakfast, L for lunch and D for dinner at local restaurants)
    Private air-conditioned car/van/coach for land transportation
    Experienced English language speaking tour guide
    All admission tickets to sightseeing places
    All government taxes
    Tour Price Exclusions
    Optional tour & Insurance
    International airfare to Beijing and departing from Beijing
    Chinese Tourist Visa
    Excursions and activities not included in itinerary
    Gratuities to GCT service staffs (please refer to Travel Information)
    Expenditure of a personal nature, such as drinks, souvenirs, laundry, etc
    Reservation
    For reservation, please send an email to info@GrandChinaTravel.com. Please inform us: the tour code; the number of travelers; your name as appeared in passport; your passport number; the date of arrival in China and your international flight number. For details of payment, please read our Terms & Conditions.
  • Classic Beijing Tour 4 Days Optional Tours
     
    Day 2: Acrobatic Show Performance with Chinese Dinner, USD30 per person
    Join an optional tour to a dazzling acrobatic performance by local acrobats at Beijing’s    Chaoyang Theater with an included dinner. Chinese acrobatics ranks among the best arts in the world. The history of acrobatic show has been existent for more than two thousand years. The acrobatic shows are characterized by feats of strength and daring performed cleverly, precisely and accurately, and the ability of retaining balance in motion.
     
     
    Day 3: Chinese Kungfu Show at Red Theater with Chinese Dinner, USD35 per person
    The show of the Legend of Kungfu at Red Theatre Beijing is a high level performance with the wonderful story layout, perfect stage design, professional martial arts actors, and the real Kungfu actions and scenes. You will be strongly impacted both mentally and physically by this show.
     
     
  • City Inn Happy Valley Beijing
    Add: Vecchio Shopping Street, North Xiaowuji Road, Chaoyang District, Beijing,
    Tel: +86-10-67376688
     
    City Inn Happy Valley Beijing is a chain of fine business hotel brand developed by the OCT IHMC, located in the center of Beijing City that gives traveler the great location for business and financial purposes. The hotel is also easily reachable the city’s major shopping area and famous attractions. The hotel has an excellent location which is 18km to Beijing Railway Station, and 30km to Beijing Capital Airport. The hotel offers 224 rooms that have contemporary interiors and diverse room types. It offers the ideal setting for conferences, meetings, special events, business trips, and the Internet access helps guests keeping in touch with their friends and family when traveling in Beijing. Free broad video and self-help laundry house are available for guests. Restaurants, Bars, Sauna, Foot Massage, Beauty Salon, Supermarket, Banks, and Hospital are all around the hotel. An attentive and professional staff is always pleased to provide you all the necessary information for your successful Beijing travel.
     
     
     
     
     
    Note: GCT is using above mentioned hotels for our regular tour packages. Shall you have special request for staying at hotels of your choice or hotels located at a specific area, please feel free to contact our professional tour consultant at info@GrandChinaTravel.com.
  • 1: Do I need a visa to travel to China?
     
    Yes, you do need a China Visa. Foreign visitors can obtain individual or group visas from Chinese embassies and consulates, usually within a day or two. For individual travelers, single-entry visas are valid for entry within three months. For business people and other regular visitors there are multiple-entry visas good for six months at a time. Each visa is valid for a stay of 30 or 60 days, and can be extended while in China. Visitors should be sure to carry their passports while in China as they are needed to check into hotels, make plane or train reservations, exchange money or establish the holder's identity. 
     
    If you need Visa Invitation Letter from us, please inform us at least one month ahead of your arrival date in China. Usually, it will take us about one week to process the Visa Invitation Letter. If you need hotel confirmation to get China Visa, please also advice us in advance. 
    2: How strenuous is this trip?
     
    This trip is moderate. The trip includes full days of activities, which start early in the morning and end in the evening. You may discuss the starting time with GCT tour guide who will be happy to listen to your advice. The longest walking is from Tian'anmen Square to Forbidden City and then to the parking place which will last for less than three hours covering about 2km.  
     
    As for the Great Wall of China, we are visiting Juyongguan or Badaling part which are renovated and fairly easy to climb. However, some of the climb along the wall does get fairly steep. You may stop any time and anywhere depending on your phycial condition. Bring plenty of water, wear good hiking shoes or boots and appropriate clothing for the weather. Also wear a hat and/or sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun.
    3. What types of meals are included?
     
    Meals will be served as the itinerary specified. Breakfast will be both Western and Chinese buffet breakfast at hotel. Lunch will be at local Chinese restaurants near sightseeing places. Dinner will be on your own. You may try local cuisines in each city, such as Peking Roasted Duck in Beijing, Xian Dumplings Banquet, etc. GCT tour guide will be very happy to assist you to find a fine local restaurant. 
     
    For guests with allergies, please bring all necessary medicines with you. Guests are highly encouraged to inform GCT ahead of time of specific allergies, such as to peanuts, fish, etc., so that our guides can ensure these items, including peanut oil, are not used in restaurant meals.
     
    If you request specific kind of food due to religious reasons, such as Halal meals, Indian meals or Arabian meals, please inform us in advance and we will arrange based on your request. 
    4. What types of vehicles are used? What are the roads like during our trips?
     
    Throughout the whole trip, GCT provides a private vehicle that is safe, comfortable and spacious and driven by experienced local drivers. In Beijing, Xian and Shanghai, all roads are well-paved and of good quality.
     
    For 2 passengers, we use a private sedan car; for 3 to 6 passengers, we use a private MPV such as Hyundai Refine; for 7 to 10 passengers, we use a private Toyota Hiace; for 11 to 17 passengers, we use 21 seated King Long Bus; for more than 18 passengers, we use buses with 33 seats, 45 seats and 51 seats respectively based on the group size.
    5. How do I book this tour with you? How about the deposit and payment?
     
    It is easy to book tours with GCT. Just send us an email with the tour code; the number of travelers; your name as appeared in passport; your passport number; the date of arrival in China and your international flight number. GCT will get back to you within 24 hours. We do need a deposit of USD200 per person to secure the reservation at the time of booking. Balance payment need to be completed one month before your arrival date in China. You may choose to pay the deposit and balance payment by PayPal or bank transfer. 
    6. I heard that a deposit is needed when check in at hotels in China, is this true?
     
    Yes, it is true. When you check in hotels in China, you are required to pay a deposit at the front desk though GCT has paid hotel for your accommodations. Deposit can be cash or you may pay the deposit with your credit card. This deposit is for your personal expenses at the hotel, such as minibar, international phone calls, laundry and etc. Of course, the deposit will be refunded when you check out. 
    7. What about baggage regulations?
     
    Allowance for carry-on luggage and checked luggage will vary with the class of your airline ticket, the dimensions of the bag, and individual airline policies. Usually, for domestic China flights, you are allowed to check one piece of luggage. The limitation is 20 Kilograms (44 pounds) total. A fee may be imposed for excess weight. Passengers traveling together can have their luggage allowances calculated together on a per-person basis. There is no free luggage allowance for holders of infant tickets. Passengers may apply for insurance coverage above the minimum value for checked luggage. On domestic trains there are no luggage restrictions, but few porters are available to help with luggage.
    8. What is the tipping practice in China?
     
    It is a common practice for visitors to tip the tour guide and driver in recognition of their good service. Our local guides and drivers do their utmost to make your trip smooth and pleasant. Gratuities are a way of showing your appreciation and also constitute a large part of their monthly income. We suggest $5 USD per person per day to both local guide and driver (you may tip them before you leave each city). Hotel Bellboys and luggage person will expect your tip for the delivery of your luggage, it is suggested that CNY5 for each delivery. It is not customary to leave tips at hotels or local restaurants as the bill usually includes a 10-15% service charge.
    9. Is tap water drinkable in China?
     
    Tap water at most hotels are not drinkable. Drink only bottled or boiled water. Tea is often provided free in hotel.
    10. What about electricity in China?
     
    Electricity supply is 220 volts, 50 cycles throughout China. Plugs at hotel are normally two-pin flat (5 amp). Adaptors can be obtained from hotel housekeeping for free. 
    11. Can I use credit cards in China?
     
    At present the Bank of China accepts Master, American Express, Visa, JCB, and Diners Club cards. Travelers may use these cards to draw cash over the exchange counters in China's banks, make purchases or pay bills at large department stores, restaurants and hotels in more than 100 major cities in China. A surcharge of 2% is always charged for card transactions.
    12. What about the Chinese Currency?
     
    RMB (Renminbi) is the sole legitimate currency of the People's Republic of China. The basic unit of RMB is yuan, (pronounced in local dialect as kuai), which is divided into 10 jiao (pronounced as mao), which is again divided into 10 fen. RMB paper notes include 1, 2, 5, 10, 50 and 100 yuan, and the smaller 1, 2 and 5 mao. There are also 1, 2, 5 yuan, 1, 2, 5 mao and 1, 2, 5fen coins.
     
    You may change money at most four and five star hotels and at Bank of China. The exchange rate all over China is the same fixed by Bank of China. You should keep the form you fill in when changing money, because you will need to show it when you change RMB back into foreign currency.
    13. What about counterfeit money?
     
    Counterfeit money may be found in China and you may likely get counterfeit money as exchange from street vendors when you do shopping out on the street. Therefore, don't give big note money to street vendors. It is very common that shop and restaurant staff will carefully check your note when you pay. You may get counterfeit money outside the Summer Palace, outside the Forbidden City and in the street market outside the Great Mosque in Xian.  
    14. Is China a safe place to travel?
     
    China has a low crime rate, comparing with a lot of other countries. Foreigners have seldom been victims of violent crime. It is still wise to be cautious with your personal possession in public place. There are pickpockets active in crowded areas such as train stations, markets, shopping areas, etc. Do not show off your money in public. Use your safe in the hotel room and don't bring too much cash with you when you don't need it. 
    15. Can you give me some examples of tourist traps or scams when traveling in China?
     
    Art Student or Students Practicing English
    Be careful when you encounter a student in China who wants to practice English with you. Sometimes they are real students who want to improve their oral English. However, in most cases, they pretend to be a student who makes a living by taking you to art galleries, bars or coffee shop where you will likely be ripped off. Here is a short scam story: "When walking down the Wangfujing area, a girl, dressed in student suit, asked me if I wanted to go for a cup of coffee so that she could practice her English. Certainly, I had no excuse to refuse, and then she brought me into a café. The menu is incredibly expensive, a small beer for 100RMB. The bill finally was 1200RMB. That's extremely terrible." You may easily encounter a student on Downtown Beijing's Wangfujing Street, the Bell & Drum Tower Square in Xian and the Bund & Nanjing Road in Shanghai. 
     
    Tea House, Coffee Shop or Nightclub Scam
    At many tourist areas, you may be approached by elegant female or gentleman who will give you a free Hutong tour or something else for free. He or she will tell you something interesting about their city, even the history and culture of the city. After a while chat, he or she will invite you to go for a rest at the nearby tea house, coffee shop or a Karaoke Bar. There is the scam, and you will be asked to pay hundreds or thousands of dollars.
     
    Picture-taking scam
    Dressing up in traditional clothes for pictures at local tourist spots can be fun and memorable. It can also be expensive if you don’t clearly negotiate the price and know the price inclusions. Often they will tell you after you and a friend have posted that the price negotiated was per person. Or they will tell you the price is for only the smallest size print.

Find A China Trip


Where do you want to go?

How long is your trip?

What Our Customers Say About GCT

We have returned safe, sound and very pleased. This is just a brief note to thank you for your hospitality, care and attention for details. We were a bit anxious before starting this tour but thanks to your organizing skills we have returned with great bundles of very happy memories. Your guides are all wonderfully dedicated individuals. They made our stay and movements easy, enjoyable and educational.

A small group from Toronto is soon departing for a 20 day tour with you. I have no doubt they would benefit from your expertise just as much as we did, or more. We have already talked about your organization and its people to a number of our friends. We will be happy to talk to any one else at your suggestion.

With all the best wishes
Abbas
April, 2007
From Canada