Beijing Full-Day Tour: Forbidden City, Temple of Heaven and Summer Palace

After pickup from your central Beijing hotel, set off through the city’s bustling streets by climate-controlled coach. On route, hear about Beijing’s history, and listen as your guide shares information about China’s culture. Stop first at the Forbidden City, near Tiananmen Square. The world’s largest historical palatial complex, this massive walled compound dates from the 15th century, and was home to 14 Ming and 10 Qin emperors. Tour the main pavilions, halls and courtyards — the complex houses 800 buildings — and admire the classical Chinese architecture as your guide shares tales of the royals who lived and ruled from here. Next, continue to the Temple of Heaven, a beautiful imperial spiritual complex built 600 years ago. Admire the religious buildings and see the magnificent Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests, where the emperors prayed for fruitful harvests. After a set-menu Chinese lunch at a restaurant, indulge in some retail therapy at Chinese medicine outlets and the nearby Pearl Market. Then, travel to the Summer Palace. Created in 1750 as an imperial summertime retreat, this masterpiece of Chinese landscaping blends intricate pavilions, halls, bridges, lakes and rivers. Enjoy a leisurely stroll to admire the ornamental gardens, buildings, and other architectural gems, and then finish your tour with a central hotel drop-off.