Beijing Private Day Tour: Longqing Gorge and Ancient Cliff Dwellings (Guyaju)

Exploring Beijing Beyond the City: Longqing Gorge and Guyaju Caves

This private day tour offers a refreshing escape from Beijing’s bustling streets into the quieter, scenic outskirts of the city. Perfect for travelers who’ve already checked off the major landmarks like the Forbidden City and the Great Wall, this experience takes you into the countryside, where natural beauty and mysterious ruins await. The tour’s flexibility and private setup make it ideal for those wanting a more personalized adventure, away from the crowds and typical tourist spots.

What we particularly like about this tour is how it combines two very different but equally fascinating sites—Longqing Gorge, with its dramatic canyon scenery, and the Guyaju Caves, an archaeological enigma of ancient dwellings carved into rock. The fact that it’s fully customizable means you can tailor the experience to your interests, whether you’re a nature lover, history buff, or simply after a peaceful day out. On the downside, the total travel time is about two hours each way, which is something to consider if you’re short on time or prefer more time spent at each location.

This tour works best for curious travelers who enjoy scenic landscapes, historical mysteries, and off-the-beaten-path discoveries. If you’re looking for a relaxing, private experience that offers a deeper glimpse of Beijing’s surroundings, this is a great choice.

Key Points

• Private and Customizable: Tailor the day to your preferences with a private guide and vehicle.
• Scenic Beauty: Longqing Gorge offers breathtaking canyon views reminiscent of China’s famous landscapes.
• Historical Mystery: Guyaju Caves provide an intriguing glimpse into ancient rock-hewn dwellings with uncertain origins.
• Convenient Transportation: Modern, air-conditioned vehicle ensures comfort during the roughly 2-hour ride each way.
• Expert Guidance: The local English-speaking guide enriches the experience with insights and stories.
• Value for Money: All-inclusive private service at $280 per person offers an intimate, hassle-free day out.

A Deep Dive into the Experience

Starting the Day: Convenient Pickup and Private Transport

The tour begins with a pickup from your hotel or designated location in Beijing, ensuring a smooth start to a day packed with exploration. The modern, air-conditioned vehicle is a significant plus, especially during Beijing’s warmer months, offering comfort on the approximately two-hour ride to the outskirts. The private nature of this tour means you’re not sharing your day with strangers, allowing for flexibility and personalized attention.

Longqing Gorge: Awe-Inspiring Canyon Views and Local Weekend Favorite

Your first stop is Longqing Gorge, often called the “north three gorge” and affectionately known locally as a popular weekend retreat. The gorge is famously photogenic, with narrow peaks, dramatic rock faces, and a reservoir that has transformed the landscape into a tranquil waterway. The flooded canyon, created by the nearby Longqing Dam, resembles the famous Li River in Guilin or the Three Gorges of the Yangtze, but on a smaller, more intimate scale.

While the admission ticket isn’t included, the scenic vistas are free for all visitors. Here, you can enjoy a gentle walk along the canyon, admire the steep cliffs, or just soak in the peaceful atmosphere. Some travelers, like Brice_K, have emphasized the “stunning views and friendly guide”, noting that the scenery is worth the trip even if you don’t go on a boat ride or take part in other activities.

Guyaju Caves: A Mysterious Ancient Rock-Hewn Settlement

After a scenic drive, you’ll visit Guyaju Caves, an archaeological site shrouded in mystery. These ancient dwellings are carved directly into the rock face of a valley and may date back as far as the Liao Dynasty (~950 AD). The caves include homes, a worship hall, and other structures, all packed closely together and cut into different levels—creating a labyrinthine feel that sparks curiosity.

The origins of this complex remain uncertain, with archaeologists unable to definitively establish who built them or when they were abandoned. From the description, the site resembles a small fortress or a communal settlement, and exploring it gives a tangible sense of China’s ancient past. The admission fee isn’t included here either, but the experience of walking through the rock-hewn dwellings is quite captivating.

Flexibility and Personalization

One of the key benefits of this tour is its full customization. You can discuss specific interests with your guide beforehand—whether it’s spending more time at the gorge, exploring additional nearby sites, or simply relaxing—and the guide will adapt accordingly. This flexibility makes it a good fit for travelers who prefer a tailored experience over a fixed schedule.

Practical Details and Considerations

Duration and Timing

The entire tour runs approximately 8 to 9 hours, with most of the time spent traveling between sites and exploring each location. It’s worth noting that the journey from Beijing’s central area to the outskirts takes around two hours each way, so plan your day accordingly. Starting early helps maximize your time at the sites.

Cost and Value

At $280 per person, this private tour offers a good value if you consider the convenience, private guiding, and transportation included. Compared to group tours, the personalized service and flexibility justify the price—especially if you’re traveling with a small group or as a couple. Remember, tickets to the sites are not included, but this allows you to choose your preferred options and avoid paying for attractions you might not want to visit.

Who Should Join?

This experience is best suited for travelers who have already covered Beijing’s major highlights and are eager for a quieter, more scenic, and historically intriguing day out. It’s ideal if you enjoy natural landscapes, ancient ruins, and learning about lesser-known sites. The private setup makes it especially appealing for those who want to avoid crowded tours and enjoy a more relaxed, intimate atmosphere.

Authentic Insights from Past Travelers

The reviews reveal a lot about what makes this tour special. Brice_K highlights the “stunning views” and the “friendly guide” (Judy), emphasizing that the scenery is worth experiencing firsthand. The fact that the guide is described as attentive and concerned suggests a high level of personalized service, which makes the day more enjoyable.

Many appreciate the value for money, especially given the private nature and the scenic quality of the sites. The combination of scenic landscapes and archaeological intrigue makes for a varied and enriching day.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Right for You?

If you’re looking for a peaceful escape from the busy streets of Beijing and want to explore some of the city’s lesser-known natural and historical sites, this private tour offers exceptional value. The ability to customize the day makes it suitable whether you’re a photography enthusiast, a history lover, or simply someone seeking a tranquil, scenic experience. The knowledgeable guide, stunning views, and private vehicle all contribute to a smooth and memorable day.

This tour is particularly well-suited for travelers who appreciate personalized experiences and are willing to spend around a full day exploring outside of the city core. Whether it’s the dramatic canyon of Longqing Gorge or the mysterious rock-cut dwellings of Guyaju, you’ll leave with a deeper appreciation of China’s quieter corners.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all travelers?
Yes, most travelers can participate. It’s designed to be accessible and enjoyable for a wide range of ages and activity levels.

Are tickets to Longqing Gorge and Guyaju Cave included?
No, the tour price does not include the entrance tickets. You will need to purchase these separately on-site.

How long does the drive from Beijing take?
The drive from Beijing to Longqing Gorge and Guyaju Cave takes about two hours each way.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, the tour is 100% private and customizable to your preferences, so you can spend more or less time at each site.

What should I bring for this tour?
Comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, water, and a camera are recommended. Since the sites involve outdoor exploration, dress appropriately for the weather.

Is this tour available year-round?
Most likely, but it’s best to confirm with the provider for seasonal considerations or weather-related closures.

How do I book this tour?
You can book directly through the provided platform or contact Encounter China Tours via phone or email for personalized arrangements.

In essence, this private day tour to Longqing Gorge and Guyaju Caves offers a fantastic blend of natural beauty and historical mystery, wrapped up in the comfort of a private, customizable experience. Perfect for those wanting to explore beyond Beijing’s usual sights with a knowledgeable guide by your side.