Tiananmen Square

Your tour kicks off with a pickup from your downtown Beijing accommodation, where you’ll meet your private guide and start your evening exploration of Tiananmen Square and its surroundings. Stroll through the illuminated Gate of Heavenly Peace, admire the lit-up bridges and columns, and experience Tiananmen Square’s breathtaking sparkle after dark. Flag-lowering ceremony viewing is available upon advance reservation. Please note that security checks for square entry can take 1–3 hours depending on the day; our guide will tailor the itinerary accordingly. As you wander the square, your guide will also share fascinating historical insights into the surrounding iconic buildings.

Qianmen Main Street Mall

From here, stroll to Qianmen Street and the Dashilan commercial district—once Beijing’s busiest thoroughfares during the Ming and Qing dynasties, showcasing traditional local architecture and time-honored merchant culture. Revered as a symbol of old Beijing for its grandeur and unique design, Qianmen Street has thrived as a commercial hub for nearly seven centuries. Wander its bustling lanes to admire well-preserved classic buildings and iconic vintage "dangdang" trams. Explore renowned century-old shops like Quanjude (roast duck) and Liubiju (traditional pickles), then dive into the lively snack streets—where you can try adventurous local treats like fried scorpions and silkworm pupae (self-paid). Continue to Dashilan’s ancient alleyways to soak up the authentic charm of old Beijing’s commercial heritage.