Historic Free Tour & Walk Beijing Like a Local: Hutongs and Local Food
Overview
• Authentic Local Market: Dive into a non-touristy food market where neighbors shop. Taste fresh treats made before your eyes, like crispy Jianbing (Chinese crepes) & pastries! (Food costs paid to vendors, approx. $3-$5 total).
• Hutong History Walk: Explore maze-like alleys and see how modern daily life blends with centuries-old history.
• Sino-French University (Exterior): Stand before a hidden historic gem and hear fascinating stories of early modern cultural exchange.
• Hidden Temples (Zhizhu & Songzhu): Step inside restored ancient temples. Marvel at wooden structures and learn Chinese architectural philosophy.
• Special Gift: Every guest receives a handpicked Chinese souvenir to take Beijing memories home!
• Pace: Easy walk, 2-3 km. Perfect for everyone.
• End Point: Near Jingshan Park! Climb up to enjoy a panoramic view of the Forbidden City or a stunning sunset. We'll help you enter & give dinner tips!
This activity includes:
- Zhaojunsheng Vegetable Market
- Liangguochang Hutong
- Sino-French University「Exterior view only (photo stop)」
- Songzhu & Zhizhu Temple
- Sanyanjing Hutong（3 Wells Hutong）
- Expert Bilingual City Host（Your Local Friend）
- Local Handmade Gift
- Photo-taking Assistance
- Insider Travel Tips Collection for China
On arrival
Meeting Point: Exit B, National Art Museum Metro Station (中国美术馆地铁站 B口)
How to Find Us: Your host will be waiting outside Exit B holding an M&M Local Flow sign or A Purple Umbrella. Please arrive 5–10 minutes before the tour starts. The meeting point is easily accessible by the Beijing Subway Line 8.
Things to note
• Your passport for potential checkpoints on the way.
• Please note that Google Maps is not always accurate in China. For the best navigation experience, we recommend using Amap (Gaode Maps) or Baidu Maps.
• This is a walking experience with frequent stops. Please wear comfortable walking shoes.
• The tour operates in most weather conditions. Please bring an umbrella, hat, or sunscreen if needed.
• Some Beijing snacks are available during the tour, but food and personal purchases are not included in the tour price.
• If you have any food allergies, dietary restrictions, or mobility concerns, please inform your host before the experience.
• Children are welcome but should be accompanied by an adult.
• Please arrive at the meeting point 5–10 minutes before the scheduled start time.
• 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.
Cancellation policy
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.
