Beijing Historical Tour II including Summer Palace, Lama Temple & Panda Garden

Introduction

If you’re planning a day in Beijing and want a taste of the city’s most iconic sights, the Beijing Historical Tour II offers a well-rounded experience. It packs in visits to the UNESCO-listed Summer Palace, the sacred Lama Temple, and the adorable Panda Garden — making it perfect for those short on time but eager to see the best.

One thing we particularly appreciate about this tour is its balance: it combines cultural sites with a brief but engaging visit to the panda reserve, and includes a traditional Chinese lunch. The knowledgeable guides and all-inclusive price make it a straightforward way to explore without stress.

However, some travelers note that the tour can feel rushed, especially if you want to linger longer at each site or dive into deeper details. It’s ideal for first-timers or those who prefer a structured overview rather than a slow, in-depth exploration. If you’re looking for a comprehensive, value-packed day with plenty of photo opportunities and cultural insights, this tour ticks many boxes.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary covering key Beijing highlights in one day
• Guided experience with knowledgeable English-speaking guides
• All-inclusive price covers transportation, entrance fees, lunch, and hotel pickup
• Efficient schedule but may feel somewhat hurried at times
• Value for money with a mix of culture, history, and wildlife
• Suitable for first-time visitors wanting a snapshot of Beijing’s icons

The Itinerary and What to Expect

Visiting the Lama Temple (Yonghegong)

Our first stop on this full-day tour is the Lama Temple, one of Beijing’s most renowned religious sites. This temple, built with a blend of Han, Mongolian, Manchu, and Tibetan architectural styles, is a visual delight. The colorful carvings, intricate murals, and sacred objects give it a lively, spiritual atmosphere.

Most travelers find the highlight to be the 18-meter-tall Maitreya Buddha carved from a sandalwood tree, a striking image that’s both impressive and peaceful. The temple is bustling but still offers moments of quiet reflection amid the vibrant surroundings. As one reviewer put it, the “cultural delight” of the Lama Temple makes it a must-see.

Your guide shares stories about the significance of the temple’s different halls and the history behind its construction, which adds depth to the visit. Expect about an hour here, which gives enough time to explore the grounds and take plenty of photos.

A Traditional Chinese Lunch

After soaking in the sights at the Lama Temple, your tour includes a Chinese-style lunch. Many reviewers mention that the meal is a good opportunity to try local dishes and recharge for the afternoon. While the specific menu isn’t detailed, the inclusion of lunch is valuable, especially for those eager to avoid extra planning or costs during their day.

Exploring the Summer Palace (Yiheyuan)

Next, you’ll head to the Summer Palace, a sprawling complex that once served as an imperial retreat. The palace’s impressive architecture, the expansive man-made lake, and meticulously landscaped gardens make it a highlight.

The guide explains how the palace was rebuilt after destruction by foreign armies, adding a historical layer to your visit. You’ll stroll through decorated temples, quaint pavilions, and bridges that cross the water. The “secret garden” is a favorite among visitors, offering tranquil views and great photo ops.

While some reviews note that the tour generally covers the grounds rather than going inside the main palace buildings, you’ll still get a good feel for the grandeur and serenity of this imperial getaway. Expect about two hours here, providing time for pictures, wandering, and soaking in the scenery.

Panda Garden Encounter

One of the most beloved stops is the Panda Garden at the Beijing Zoo. Seeing these gentle, playful creatures is often the highlight of the day. Reviewers consistently mention how “fascinating” and “adorable” the pandas are, making it a crowd favorite. It’s a rare chance to see China’s national treasure up close, and the opportunity to observe the pandas’ antics is priceless.

The visit lasts around two hours, giving enough time to watch the pandas, explore the zoo’s other sculptures, and maybe buy some souvenirs. Some reviewers mention that the “sculptures at the zoo are as interesting as the animals,” adding a quirky touch to the experience.

Silk Market Demonstration

Towards the end of the tour, you’ll visit the Tianhou Silk Market, where a short silk-making demonstration is performed. Many travelers find this part intriguing, especially if you’re interested in textiles and shopping. The guide explains the silk process, and you’re welcome to purchase high-quality silk products if you wish, although some reviews warn about the sales pitches at these showrooms.

While the visit to the silk shop can seem like an extra stop that cuts into sightseeing time, it’s also an opportunity to buy authentic souvenirs at potentially better prices than in other parts of the city.

Transportation, Guide, and Overall Experience

Transportation is comfortable and reliable, with the tour using air-conditioned coaches or mini-vans, making the long drives between sites manageable. The hotel pickup and drop-off are included if your stay is within the 4th ring highway, which adds convenience.

The guides are often praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and good English skills. One reviewer, Monica, mentions that her guide, Mary, was “very entertaining and tried to cater to individual interests,” making the experience engaging and informative.

Timing-wise, the tour starts promptly at 8:00 am. While the schedule is well-organized, some travelers note that it can feel “rushed,” especially if you want to spend more time at each site or do additional activities like boat rides. The day usually lasts about 7 to 10 hours, which means you’ll be on the move with limited downtime.

What’s Included and What to Watch For

• All admission fees are covered, eliminating surprise costs.
• The lunch provides a good break, though some reviewers felt it was “subpar” compared to other tours.
• The bookings typically are made 28 days in advance, so plan ahead to secure your spot.

Some reviews highlight the presence of sales pitches at the silk and pearl shops, which might be a consideration if you prefer a more shopping-free experience.

The Authenticity and Value of the Tour

This tour offers a solid value for money—at $93 per person, it covers transportation, entrance fees, a guide, lunch, and hotel pickup. Many travelers mention that they appreciated the organized logistics, which allowed them to see several major sights without the hassle of planning individual tickets or navigating public transportation.

However, the fast-paced nature means that if you’re looking for deep dives into each site, this might not be your ideal choice. The emphasis is on overview and efficiency rather than in-depth exploration. Still, the combination of cultural sites, wildlife, and shopping provides a well-rounded snapshot of Beijing.

What Could Be Better?

Some reviews point out the short time spent at the zoo, with only about 10 minutes at the gift shop and a quick look at the pandas. Others mention the pushy sales tactics at the silk and pearl shops. Plus, a few guests felt the lunch could be more satisfying and that the itinerary could be slightly longer to include more leisurely moments.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour suits first-time visitors to Beijing who want a structured, all-in-one experience. It’s great if you prefer guided tours over solo exploration, especially for the cultural and wildlife highlights. Families, particularly those with children interested in pandas, will find this tour engaging and manageable within a full day.

It’s also a strong choice for travelers who appreciate value for money, as it bundles transportation, entry fees, meals, and guide services. However, if you’re seeking a more relaxed pace or a deep culture into each site, consider a more customized or private option.

The Sum Up

The Beijing Historical Tour II strikes a good balance between convenience, value, and variety. You’ll walk away with a solid overview of some of Beijing’s most iconic sights, complemented by insightful guides and a tasty Chinese lunch. While it’s fast-paced and includes some shopping stops, the opportunity to see pandas and explore historical sites makes it a worthwhile choice for many travelers.

This tour is especially suited to those visiting Beijing for the first time, wanting a comprehensive snapshot without the hassle of organizing multiple tickets and transport. If you’re comfortable with a busy day and appreciate guided insights and good value, this experience offers a memorable way to tick off major landmarks.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off are included if your hotel is located within the 4th ring highway of Beijing. For hotels outside this area, you’ll need to meet at the Prime Hotel in Wangfujing.

What’s the duration of the tour?
It lasts about 7 hours, but some reviews mention it can extend up to 10 hours depending on traffic and stops.

Are entrance fees included?
Yes, all entrance fees for the sites visited are covered in the tour price.

Can I buy souvenirs during the tour?
Yes, at the silk market, you can purchase silk and other souvenirs, but be aware of the sales pitches.

Is lunch provided?
A traditional Chinese meal is included, giving you a chance to enjoy local cuisine without extra cost.

Are the guides knowledgeable?
Most reviews praise the guides for their helpfulness, good English, and ability to share interesting stories about the sites.

How crowded are the sites?
Beijing’s top attractions are popular, so expect some crowds, especially at the Panda Garden and Summer Palace.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, especially those fond of pandas or interested in cultural sights, but keep in mind the schedule is quite full.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes are highly recommended, as the sites involve a fair amount of strolling.

In all, this tour offers a hassle-free way to check off Beijing’s major sights in one day, with the added bonus of adorable pandas and cultural insights. It’s a practical choice for travelers wanting a guided, well-organized experience that packs in a lot of value.