• Lotus Lane - A personal guide will collect guests from their downtown Beijing hotel and take them to Shichahai, a peaceful waterside area away from the crowds, offering a unique view of old Beijing’s allure.

The journey begins at Lotus Market, a historic riverside area that combines traditional architecture with local ambiance. Once a lively market focused on lotus-themed trade, it now maintains its old-world charm, allowing visitors to stroll along the waterfront and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere of Shichahai’s daily life.

• Bell and Drum Towers - Along the way, there will be a stop to admire the Bell and Drum Towers from the outside. These iconic landmarks of Beijing’s Central Axis (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) once regulated the city’s daily rhythm with their bell and drum sounds. The guide will explain their historical importance as the “timekeepers” of ancient Beijing and their vital role on the city’s central axis.
• Gong Wang Fu - The next stop is Prince Gong’s Mansion, the largest and best-preserved Qing-dynasty noble residence, known as “a mansion that tells half of Qing’s history”. Visitors can explore its grand courtyards, the intricately carved “99-and-a-half” Back Cover Building, the lush Cuijin Garden, and the Nanmu Hall (a forbidden luxury in ancient times). (Note: During peak seasons, the mansion attracts large local crowds, so tickets cannot be guaranteed.)
• Peking Former Residence of Soong Ching Ling (Song Qingling Guju) - The tour then visits Soong Ching-ling’s Former Residence, the former home of China’s esteemed state honorary president. This tranquil garden estate, once a royal garden of the Ming and Qing dynasties, features a two-story building where Soong lived and worked for 18 years. Guests can view her original living quarters, personal items, and exhibits detailing her life and contributions to the nation, surrounded by ancient trees and serene lakes.
• Yinding Bridge - The tour will pass by Yinding Bridge, a historic white marble bridge shaped like an inverted silver ingot. It was once one of the “Eight Scenic Spots of Yanjing”, where Emperor Qianlong famously admired the sunset over the Western Hills, creating a poetic landscape celebrated by generations of literati.
• Yandai Xie Street - The next destination is Yandaixie Street, a 232-meter ancient alleyway recognized as one of China’s top historical and cultural streets. Shaped like a tobacco pipe, it was once a high-end commercial area for nobles and now features boutique shops selling traditional souvenirs, antiques, and local snacks — ideal for finding unique keepsakes.
• Shichahai Scenic Resort - Before the rickshaw ride, there will be a leisurely walk through the hutongs — the narrow alleyways that form the backbone of old Beijing’s urban layout. Hutongs, lined with traditional courtyard houses (siheyuan), are more than just pathways; they are living museums of Beijing’s culture, where locals maintain time-honored lifestyles. Visitors will observe residents’ daily routines, from elders chatting under old trees to families gathering in courtyards, gaining deep insights into how Beijing people have lived here for centuries.
• Back Lakes (Hou Hai) - The tour continues with a 20-minute rickshaw ride through these hidden lanes, passing siheyuan and ancient alleyways to experience traditional transport and absorb the authentic local atmosphere that has remained unchanged over time.
  The entire tour lasts 4-5 hours and concludes with a drop-off at the tour’s final location.

• Rickshaw ride
• Hotel pickup (hotels within the 3rd ring road of Beijing city)
• Professional guide
• Transportation fee to Shichahai Lake

• Food and drinks
• Gratuities
• Hotel drop-off
• Transportation back to your hotel

Join an enjoyable, expertly-led private stroll through the hidden alleys of Shichahai – a lesser-known treasure away from the crowds.

Discover iconic locations with unique charm: Huoshen Temple (a peaceful ancient shrine), Lotus Lane (adorned with charming local shops), Prince Gong’s Mansion (a magnificent Qing-dynasty noble estate), Soong Ching-ling’s Former Residence (a calm homage to the esteemed leader), Yinding Bridge (a picturesque spot for lake views), and Yandaixie Street (a historic pedestrian lane with an old-world charm).

Travel through hutongs by rickshaw to immerse in genuine local life, as the guide shares captivating stories that illuminate the area’s rich history and scenery.

• Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately
• During peak tourist seasons, tickets for Prince Gong’s Mansion require advance reservation. Due to the high demand and limited availability, we cannot guarantee entry to the mansion. In the event that we are unable to visit Prince Gong’s Mansion, we will arrange a visit to the Drum Tower (Gulou) or another nearby scenic spot as an alternative, ensuring your tour experience remains fulfilling.

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.