2-Hour Ancient & Modern Beijing Sidecar Tour (Day /Night)

Imagine cruising through Beijing’s bustling streets, but instead of walking or hopping on a bus, you’re sitting comfortably in a vintage motorcycle sidecar. That’s exactly what this 2-hour Ancient & Modern Beijing Sidecar Tour offers—an engaging, fun, and intimate way to see the city’s most iconic sights and hidden corners. With a knowledgeable guide behind the wheel, you’ll explore everything from historic hutongs to sleek skyscrapers, all in a short but rich experience.

One of the things we love most about this tour is its blend of historical sites and vibrant city life. The sidecar format allows you to get up close and personal with Beijing’s landmarks, offering photo opportunities you simply can’t get from a car or bus. Plus, it’s a guided experience, so you’re never left guessing what you’re looking at or missing out on interesting stories.

That said, a potential consideration is that this tour is best suited for those comfortable with open-air transport and a bit of adventure. If you’re easily sensitive to weather, the outdoor nature might require some extra planning, especially in winter or rainy days. However, for travelers who enjoy a mix of sightseeing and a dash of thrill, this tour hits the sweet spot.

This experience is an excellent choice for first-time visitors wanting to get a quick yet rundown of Beijing’s layout, or for travelers seeking a memorable, fun way to see the city from a different perspective. It’s especially suitable for those who appreciate authentic local scenes, stunning views, and a bit of adventure in their sightseeing.

Key Points

• Unique transportation: Riding in a vintage sidecar adds excitement and offers great photo angles.
• Comprehensive itinerary: Combines historic sites, scenic lakes, and modern landmarks.
• Local insight: Guides like John are praised for punctuality and storytelling.
• Flexibility and customization: Drop-off points can be adjusted; private tours are available.
• Cost and value: For $89 per person, you get a personalized, informative experience with snacks and drinks included.
• Weather considerations: The tour operates in most weather conditions but might be canceled if weather is poor.

Discovering Beijing in a Sidecar: What to Expect

This sidecar tour isn’t your typical sightseeing bus route. It’s a personalized ride that takes you through Beijing’s heart, highlighting its intriguing mix of ancient charm and modern innovation. Starting at the National Art Museum, the tour is designed to give you a snapshot of the city’s diverse character, all in just 2 hours.

The Itinerary in Detail

Hutongs – Traditional Alleyways and Local Life
Your journey begins in Beijing’s ancient hutongs—narrow lanes where you’ll see daily life unfold in authentic ways. Riding through these alleyways offers an immersive experience, with a chance to appreciate the traditional architecture and local vibe. As one reviewer noted, it’s a “great way to see different parts of the city,” especially when paired with stories from your guide like John, who is praised for his storytelling skills and punctuality.

Bell and Drum Towers
The iconic Bell and Drum Towers are central landmarks that have defined Beijing’s skyline for centuries. They’re also the “internet-famous check-in spots,” which makes for some fun photos. From the sidecar, you get a perfect angle, and the 5-minute stop allows you to soak in the historic ambiance without the usual crowds.

Shichahai Scenic Resort
Next, you’ll glide along Houhai lakes, a favorite spot among locals and visitors alike. This area offers scenic views, especially with the surrounding historic buildings and bustling waterside cafes. You’ll enjoy a stop here, with some drinks included, to relax and take pictures. One review highlights the view as “stunning,” and the relaxed stop is a chance to witness Beijing’s leisure lifestyle.

Forbidden City’s North Gate & Surroundings
Driving past the north gate of the Forbidden City and the moat provides a taste of Beijing’s imperial past. Watching Tower views and the moat are great photo moments, especially with the guide pointing out details about the site’s history. This stop offers a quick but enriching glimpse into China’s imperial legacy.

Beijing Workers’ Stadium & CCTV Tower
Moving into the modern era, you’ll pass the Beijing Workers’ Stadium, a hub for sports and entertainment, and then the CCTV New Mansion, an architectural marvel and the city’s tallest building. This contrast between the old and the new underscores Beijing’s rapid development. Both sights are visible from the sidecar with brief stops, giving you a chance for photos and commentary.

Site of Ming City Wall Park
Finally, you’ll visit the only remaining piece of the original Beijing city wall—an atmospheric spot where history and urban life blend. It’s a quieter, contemplative stop, perfect for understanding how the city’s ancient defenses have evolved into today’s parks and streets.

The Experience: Comfort, Snacks, and Practicalities

Included in the tour are helmets, bottled water, raincoats, and even a phone charge cable—a thoughtful touch for those capturing endless photos. During the ride, you can enjoy Beijing-style snacks and, depending on the season, hot drinks or cold sodas and beers, which add a nice touch to the experience.

The tour’s group size is small, with two passengers per sidecar, making it intimate and flexible. You can switch positions halfway through, giving everyone a chance for the best view. The driver also doubles as a guide, providing interesting insights and local stories—many guests have praised guides like John for storytelling and punctuality.

Practical Details

The meeting point at the National Art Museum is easily accessible by public transportation, making it straightforward to start your Beijing adventure. The tour lasts about 2 hours, which is perfect for fitting into a busy sightseeing schedule. The price of $89 per person is quite reasonable considering the personalized nature, snacks, drinks, and photo opportunities included.

If you’re traveling with a group larger than 8, you can contact the provider for more options or tailor-made experiences, making this flexible for families, friends, or small groups.

Weather and Cancellation

While most weather conditions are suitable, poor weather might cause cancellation. The provider offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour, ensuring you won’t be out of pocket if weather disrupts plans. If the tour is canceled due to weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This sidecar adventure is ideal for travelers who enjoy a bit of adrenaline with their sightseeing, and those who want to see Beijing in a more authentic, close-up manner. It’s perfect for first-timers who want a quick but rundown, or anyone wanting a memorable photo-ops and stories to share. It suits those comfortable with outdoor activities and who appreciate a guided experience with knowledgeable hosts.

It’s also a fantastic activity for couples, friends, or small groups looking for a fun, unique way to explore. If you’re traveling solo, the private tour option ensures you’ll still get all the attention and insights.

The Sum Up

This 2-hour sidecar tour offers a rare glimpse into Beijing’s layered personality—where ancient alleyways meet soaring modern skyscrapers. It’s a fun, engaging, and informative experience that’s worth considering for anyone wanting a different perspective on the city. The guided commentary, combined with the excitement of riding in a vintage sidecar, makes it a memorable addition to your Beijing itinerary.

Travelers who prioritize authentic encounters and excellent photo opportunities will find this tour especially rewarding. It’s a great way to get oriented in the city, especially if you’re short on time but still want to see key sights. Plus, the level of personal attention and the inclusion of snacks and drinks makes for a comfortable and enjoyable ride.

Overall, if you’re seeking an adventure that combines history, modernity, and fun, this sidecar tour might be just what you need to spice up your Beijing visit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, and the tour is designed for a wide audience. However, people who are uncomfortable with open-air rides or have mobility issues might find it less suitable.

What should I wear or bring?
Comfortable clothing suitable for the weather is recommended. The tour provides raincoats if needed, and you’ll be riding outdoors so dress accordingly.

Can I customize the drop-off location?
Yes, the tour offers flexible drop-off options if you have more than 8 people or specific preferences. Just contact the provider for arrangements.

How long is the tour?
The total ride lasts around 2 hours, including stops for photos and sightseeing. It’s a quick but dense experience, perfect for fitting into a busy day.

Are snacks and drinks included?
Yes, you’ll enjoy Beijing special snacks along with hot drinks in winter or cold soda/beer in summer. Bottled water and other amenities are also provided.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour can be canceled for poor weather, with free cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance. If canceled, you can reschedule or receive a full refund.

This sidecar tour is a fantastic way to see Beijing with a blend of fun, history, and modern sights—all in just a couple of hours. Whether you’re a history buff, a photography enthusiast, or simply craving a new adventure, it’s a memorable way to touch the pulse of this vibrant city.