Classic City Tour: Bell & Drum Towers, Shichahai & Nanluoguxiang
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Discover Beijing’s historic hutongs on a fun walking tour! Snap the Bell & Drum Towers, sample local street food on Yandaixie Alley, relax along Shichahai's shore, and explore Nanluoguxiang’s vibrant courtyard bars and lively shops.
During this tour, you'll discover Beijing's down‑to‑earth side — where tradition meets modern life. With 14 years of guiding under my belt, let me show you the city behind the landmarks.
Bell and Drum Towers — Once kept time for old Beijing, marking the hours for the entire city. In the square, locals kick shuttlecocks. Feel like trying? Jump in!
Yandaixie Alley — Wander up this slanting lane where old‑school Beijing meets tiny shops and local charm. Don't miss the tiny post office — grab a stamp, write a card, and send it home with Beijing memories.
Shichahai Area — Peaceful waters by day, vibrant bars by dusk. Rent a boat, or just watch the willows sway. Nearby, Yuhe (Jade River) whispers through ancient stone channels — a quiet reminder of the Yuan‑dynasty waterway.
Nanluoguxiang — Feel the pulse of modern hutong life, where the aroma of street food mingles with café chatter and the whisper of centuries‑old courtyards.
What are you waiting for? Come explore with me!
Meeting point
Exit G of Gulou Dajie Station (accessible via both Line 2 and Line 8)
Before you go
- Length
- About 2h 30min
- Languages
- English
- Usual start times
- 09:00, 14:00 (Beijing time)
- Coming up
- 120 departures in 3 months, 12 this week
Questions about this tour
How much does this tour cost?
Nothing up front. You book for free and tip your guide at the end. Many travellers tip around €5 to €15 per person, depending on the length and quality of the tour.
How long does it take?
About 2h 30min.
Where does it start?
The meeting point is Exit G of Gulou Dajie Station (accessible via both Line 2 and Line 8). The map on this page shows the exact spot.
What languages is it in?
Upcoming departures are in English. Pick your language in the calendar to see only those.
When does it run?
120 departures are listed in the next three months, 12 of them in the next 7 days, usually at 09:00 and 14:00. Times are local to Beijing.
Do I need to book?
Booking is a good idea: groups are limited and popular times fill up. Create a free Tripsora account, pick a day and time, and press Book to finish with the tour provider.
Other free tours in Beijing
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Travel guide
Annual Festivals Worth Planning a Trip Around
Annual festivals can make a trip memorable, but dates often depend on lunar calendars or local decisions and accommodation fills quickly. Researching dates, planning transport and respecting local customs will make a festival visit more rewarding.
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