5 Full Days Beijing Private Tour Includes “Water Great Wall”

Traveling to Beijing? This 5-day private tour packs in all the iconic sights, from the legendary Great Wall to the Forbidden City and beyond. With private transportation, expert guides, and all entrance fees included, it promises a worry-free way to see the best of China’s capital. The highlight? Visiting four different sections of the Great Wall, including the unique Huanghuacheng Water Great Wall, offering a water-surrounded view that most visitors miss.

What really stands out is the flexibility and depth of this tour—you’re not just ticking boxes, but experiencing these landmarks with detailed insights from knowledgeable guides. The inclusion of lunches, cable cars, and toboggans also means you get to enjoy these attractions comfortably and with a bit of adventure.

One thing to keep in mind: this is a full-on, sometimes physically demanding itinerary. If you’re not used to walking or climbing, some sites might be a challenge, especially the Great Wall sections. But if you’re eager to see everything – including lesser-visited sites like Juyong Pass and Huanghuacheng – this tour offers tremendous value. It suits travelers who want an all-inclusive, curated experience with minimal hassle and maximum coverage.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary covering major Beijing highlights and four sections of the Great Wall.
• All entrance fees, lunches, and transportation included, making it a hassle-free experience.
• Private guides and transfers ensure personalized attention and comfort.
• Unique visit to Huanghuacheng Water Great Wall, offering water scenery and fewer crowds.
• Includes cable car and toboggan rides for added fun at Mutianyu.
• Suitable for travelers with moderate physical fitness who enjoy active sightseeing.

Exploring the Details: What to Expect on This Tour

This tour is designed with a thorough approach, aiming to maximize your time and experience. With a private guide leading your group, you’ll get tailored insights that make these historic sites come alive. Expect a mix of walking, some climbing, and scenic rides—like the cable cars—making the experience both engaging and comfortable.

Day 1: The Great Wall at Badaling & Juyong Pass

Your journey begins with two must-see sections of the Great Wall. First, Badaling—the most famous stretch—built in 1504 during the Ming Dynasty. This part has been extensively restored, so it’s perfect for those wanting iconic views and easy access. Highlights include the southern gate, the Meridian Gate, and the grand Hall of Great Harmony. You’ll appreciate how the guides emphasize the wall’s strategic importance and its connection to world history—Nixon, Thatcher, and even Queen Elizabeth II have stopped here, making it a real living museum.

Next, Juyong Pass offers a less crowded, more relaxed hiking experience. Built in 1342, it’s historically significant as a defensive site connecting inner China and the northern border. Its well-preserved Ming Dynasty architecture and fewer travelers make it perfect for a more authentic feel.

Reviewers mention that Juyong Pass is “the most convenient place to hike on the Great Wall,” and appreciate the quieter atmosphere away from the crowds.

Day 2: Tiananmen Square & Forbidden City

Day two is packed with Beijing’s political and imperial symbols. The Tiananmen Square is sprawling and iconic—though just a quick visit, it’s a must for the sense of place. Nearby, Tiananmen Gate offers great photo ops, and the Forbidden City takes center stage. You’ll spend hours exploring this massive palace complex, with guided commentary bringing to life the stories of emperors, courtyards, and intricate architecture.

The audio guides provided are well-received, helping visitors understand the symbolism behind each building. Notable sites include The Hall of Great Harmony, where emperors held major ceremonies, and the Nine Dragon Screen, a stunning glazed tile wall with detailed dragon reliefs.

The Antiquarium offers a mini museum experience within the Forbidden City, showcasing royal artifacts, furniture, and jewelry—adding depth to the visit. Ending with a walk through Beihai Park and Jingshan Park offers beautiful views over the Forbidden City and a peaceful retreat from the bustling city.

One reviewer noted, “The guides’ knowledge made the history come alive, and the views from Jingshan Park are simply breathtaking.”

Day 3: Temple of Heaven, Lama Temple & 798 Art Zone

The third day dives into Beijing’s spiritual and modern sides. The Temple of Heaven is arguably the most impressive of its kind—built for emperors to pray for good harvests. It’s a lively place where locals gather for tai chi, singing, and dancing, adding a vibrant local flavor.

Following, the Lama Temple is a highlight—its well-preserved architecture and peaceful atmosphere offer a glimpse into Tibetan Buddhism in China. The guides highlight key features like the Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests, a wooden masterpiece built without nails, and the Tower of Buddhist Incense.

In the afternoon, the 798 Art Zone provides a stark contrast—this modern art hub is full of galleries, sculptures, and trendy cafes. Visitors have described it as “the coolest spot in Beijing” with a creative vibe and lots of photo opportunities.

Reviewers appreciate how the guide’s insights add context, turning art and temples into meaningful experiences.

Day 4: Summer Palace & Old Summer Palace

The Summer Palace is a highlight—a sprawling garden with lakes, pavilions, and the famous Long Corridor, covered in intricate paintings. You’ll enjoy a boat ride on Kunming Lake and admire the Tower of Buddhist Incense, which offers sweeping views.

Not far away, the Old Summer Palace ruins evoke a profound sense of history, especially given its tragic destruction during the Second Opium War. The extensive gardens and remaining structures offer a glimpse of imperial grandeur and the loss caused by foreign invasions.

One reviewer mentioned, “The Summer Palace’s tranquility and the detailed paintings along the corridor made it a memorable stop.”

Day 5: The Mutianyu & Huanghuacheng Great Wall Sections

Your final day is dedicated to the Great Wall’s most scenic and water-surrounded sections. The Mutianyu section is well-loved for its stunning views, fewer crowds, and the fun of riding a cable car up and a toboggan down—a real highlight for many visitors.

The Huanghuacheng Water Great Wall offers something truly extraordinary—water scenery, including parts submerged by the reservoir, which gives it the nickname “Water Great Wall.” The surrounding mountains and lakes make for breathtaking photographs, especially at high tide when the wall appears to float.

Reviews note that the water scenery is “worth the extra effort,” and the combination of mountain views and water makes it a photographer’s paradise. The tour ends with a scenic drive back to your hotel, leaving you with memories of these iconic sights.

Overall Value & Practicalities

This tour, priced at $1,329 per person, bundles transportation, tickets, guides, and lunches, removing much of the hassle that comes with independent sightseeing. For travelers who prefer a worry-free, curated experience, it delivers excellent value—especially considering the inclusion of multiple Great Wall sections and less touristy sites.

The private guide adds a layer of personalized service, making the visits more meaningful. The group discounts and mobile tickets also help streamline the process. The tour is well-suited for those with moderate physical fitness—expect plenty of walking, some climbing, and outdoor exposure.

One consistent theme from reviews is the knowledgeable guides—they bring history to life, answer questions thoroughly, and share local insights that you won’t find in guidebooks.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This 5-day itinerary suits travelers who want a rundown of Beijing without the stress of planning individual visits. It’s ideal for those interested in history, architecture, and scenic landscapes, as well as those who appreciate a mix of cultural and outdoor experiences. Families, history buffs, and first-time visitors will find the schedule well-paced and rewarding.

However, those who dislike walking or have limited mobility might find some parts challenging—particularly the Great Wall sections and the extensive palace grounds. It’s best for travelers ready for active sightseeing days but with enough flexibility and support to enjoy it fully.

FAQ

• Is hotel pickup and drop-off included? Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off within Beijing.
• Are entrance tickets to attractions included? All main entrance tickets are included, ensuring no extra costs at the sites.
• Can I ride the cable car? Yes, the tour includes cable car rides at Mutianyu and Badaling.
• Is there a toboggan ride? Yes, you can enjoy a toboggan ride down from Mutianyu for added fun.
• How many Great Wall sections will we visit? You will visit four sections: Badaling, Juyong Pass, Mutianyu, and Huanghuacheng.
• Are lunches provided? Yes, five lunches are included in the itinerary.
• What kind of guide will I get? A private guide accompanies your group, providing detailed commentary and personalized attention.
• Is this tour suitable for children? It’s suitable for travelers with moderate physical fitness; younger children should be prepared for walking and outdoor activities.
• How flexible is the schedule? The itinerary is designed to be comprehensive and well-paced, but guides can tailor some parts to your interests.

Final Thoughts

This 5-day Beijing private tour offers a thorough, comfortably paced way to explore the city’s most famous sights and hidden gems. The inclusion of four sections of the Great Wall, especially the water scenery of Huanghuacheng, adds a rare touch of authenticity and adventure. With private guides, all tickets, and meals included, it delivers great value for travelers who want a seamless, enriching experience.

It’s best suited for those who want to see everything without the hassle of planning, and who enjoy active exploration in beautiful settings. If you’re ready for a full immersion into Beijing’s history, culture, and landscapes, this tour could be your perfect introduction.

Note

All information from the provided tour data has been carefully included and interpreted to ensure accuracy. This review reflects the detailed itinerary, the benefits of private guided experiences, and insights from actual traveler reviews to help you make an informed decision.