Beijing Historic Free Tour with Calligraphy: China's First & Original

9.8
99 Reviews
Verified by: FREETOUR.com
Provided by: Free Tours China
Duration
3h 30min
Meeting point
Hufangqiao Metro Station (Line 7), Exit D (South-West Exit)
Languages
English
From €0
Tip based
Free Booking. Free Cancellation.
No fixed price — pay what you feel the tour is worth.

Overview

Hello, curious traveller!! Welcome to the FIRST, ORIGINAL, and best-rated free walking tours in China!! As the local free tour trailblazer, we've conducted 2200+ tours, delighting 39,000+ visitors worldwide since 2018. We were honoured with the TripAdvisor Travelers' Choice Award from 2019 to 2025!

Step into the glorious—and complicated—past of China’s imperial capital. In 3.5 hours, explore Beijing’s historic core by walking with our local storytellers through the heart of old city: from quiet hutong lanes to lively commercial streets with time-honored brands. Visit traditional courtyard homes, hear fascinating anecdotes, and taste hidden street-food gems known only to locals!

Plus, enjoy a surprise stop: create your own Chinese calligraphy artwork, then join a fun quiz game with prizes. We guarantee you’ll leave Beijing with unforgettable memories, both by hand and by heart!

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS
· Liulichang Antiques Street
· Courtyard Art Studio (Free Calligraphy Session + Quiz Game with Prizes!)
· Yangmeizhu Hutong
· Snack Break at a Local Market
· Dashilar Commercial Street
· Qianmen Pedestrian Walk
· Zhengyang Gate Arrow Tower
· Tiananmen Square (View from Outside)

And More!
Tour Conditions
Accessibility
Suitable for people with reduced mobility
Minimum Attendees
No minimum attendees
Children
Suitable for families with children
Extra Fees
No additional cost
Pets
Not allowed
Read more

This activity includes:

  • Yangmeizhu Byway
  • Zhengyangmen
  • Huguang Guild Opera Theatre, Beijing
  • Hutong Courtyard Beijing
  • Dashilan Shopping Centre
  • Liulichang Cultural Market
  • Local English-speaking Tour Guide
  • Welcome Gifts
  • Insider Travel Tips Collection for China
  • Snack Break to Taste Local Food
  • Fun Quiz Game with Prizes
  • Calligraphy Creation for Everyone

Our Guides

TEAM — Guide of Beijing Historic Free Tour with Calligraphy: China's First & Original, China
TEAM

Meeting point

Hufangqiao Metro Station (Line 7), Exit D (South-West Exit)

On arrival

Meeting Point: Hufangqiao Metro Station (Line 7), Exit D (South-West Exit). After exiting, head straight to the main road, turn right and walk 60 meters east to the green space at the intersection. The guide will be holding a YELLOW umbrella and waiting for you in that green space!

Address for Taxi: Corner of Hufang Road & Luomashi Avenue / Huguang Guild Opera Theatre

(Chinese: 7号线地铁虎坊桥站D口【西南口】出门向东60米,虎坊路与骡马市大街路口,湖广会馆东侧小广场)

Things to note

Ending Point: Qianmen Metro Station (Line 2&8, South of Tiananmen Square)
(In Chinese: 前门地铁站,天安门广场南侧)

Importance Notice: The tour ends in front of Tiananmen Square, but we will NOT enter to visit Tiananmen Square. Please make your own reservation at least one day in advance if you wish to visit, as same-day reservations are not possible.

Things to Bring:
◆Your passport for potential checkpoints on the way
◆ Comfortable shoes for walking
◆ Money to tip your guide at the end of the tour! (Recommended Tips: 180-200RMB / 20-25 USD or Euro per person)
◆ A curious heart to learn and explore!

Ps: We decided not to have a strict cancellation policy for visitors since we understand the complications of overseas travel planning. However, we would appreciate it if you could cancel the booking if you can’t make it so that it will help us with tour organizing. Thanks for your understanding!

How can the tour be free?

Our concept is simple — there is no set price. Instead, you tip your guide at the end of the tour whatever amount feels right to you. Typically, guests give between $10 to €50, depending on their satisfaction and budget.

Most guides accept cash or card payments, or you can do it via our app.

Rating
9.8
Organisation
9.9
Atmosphere
9.9
Content
9.8
Guide
9.9
Usefulness
9.9

Free Cancellation

You are free to cancel a booking anytime. We kindly remind you to cancel bookings you cannot arrive for. Being reported as absent decreases your customer level points and the benefits you can enjoy.

Availability & Language
February 2026
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Today, 20 February 2026
english
english
10:00 AM
From €0 Tip based
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Verified and Trusted by TripAdvisor
Verified & Trusted
This activity has been verified on Tripadvisor
Awards Winner
Based on ratings, reviews & feedback
2025 The Recognition Award
2018 The Recognition Award
Tours Organized by Free Tours China

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