Beijing Historical Tour II including Summer Palace, Lama Temple & Panda Garden

Traveling to Beijing? If you’re looking to get a solid overview of the city’s most iconic spots in a day, the Beijing Historical Tour II offers a balanced mix of culture, history, and adorable pandas—all for around $93. With a rating of 4.0 based on 155 reviews, this tour is popular among travelers, especially those looking for convenience, guided insights, and a touch of panda magic.

What makes this trip stand out? First, it offers comfortable transportation, making city-hopping smooth and hassle-free. Second, the knowledgeable guides consistently receive praise for making history engaging and accessible. Third, the combination of major sights like the Summer Palace, Lama Temple, and Panda Garden means you get a hearty taste of Beijing’s cultural treasures.

However, a potential downside is that some reviews mention fast-paced visits and promotional stops at shopping venues, which might detract from the authentic experience. So, if you’re someone who values a leisurely exploration without sales pitches, it’s worth considering that aspect.

This tour suits travelers eager to see Beijing’s highlights without the hassle of planning, especially those who enjoy guided storytelling, scenic views, and wildlife encounters. Let’s break down what you can expect each step of the way.

Key Points

Comprehensive Experience: Covers essential Beijing sites—Lama Temple, Summer Palace, and Panda Garden—all in one day.

Expert Guides: Guides are praised for their knowledge and friendly approach, making history enjoyable and easy to understand.

Value for Money: Includes transportation, entrance fees, lunch, and shopping stops, making it a convenient package at a reasonable price.

Potential for Over-Sales: Some reviews highlight sales pitches at silk and jewelry shops, which could be a downside for purists.

Time Management: Most travelers find the schedule well-organized, though some mention the day runs longer than expected or feels hurried.

Authentic Encounters: Highlights like the Maitreya Buddha and pandas promise memorable, photo-worthy moments.

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting Point: Hotel Pickup and Comfort Transportation

The tour begins early, with pickups from centrally located Beijing hotels within the 4th ring circle—an area that covers most major city hotels. If your lodging is outside this zone, you’ll need to meet at the Prime Hotel at Wangfujing, a convenient central spot. Expect to be transported in an air-conditioned coach or mini-van, which makes the roughly 7-hour trip manageable even after a long morning of sightseeing.

First Stop: Lama Temple (Yonghegong)

The Lama Temple is a highlight, and rightly so. Many reviewers mention its diverse architectural styles, blending Han, Mongolian, Manchurian, and Tibetan influences, creating a visual feast. The 18-meter Maitreya Buddha statue, carved from a sandalwood tree, is particularly striking. Guides like William and Mary are praised for their detailed explanations, bringing to life the significance of sacred objects and murals.

Guests often find the Lama Temple a cultural and spiritual treat. As one reviewer said, “The Lama Temple was such a cultural delight! The sights, the sounds, and the smells made this an incredible experience.” However, note that the temple is a labyrinth of halls, so wear comfortable shoes and prepare for some crowds.

Second Stop: Lunch and Silk Market Visit

After the Lama Temple, a traditional Chinese lunch is included, which many reviewers find enjoyable, if not exceptional. An important part of the experience is the Tianhou Silk Market, where a short silk-making demonstration is performed. Here, you can browse and purchase silk products—some guests appreciate the opportunity to buy authentic souvenirs, while others note the sales pitches can be a bit aggressive, especially at the silk and pearl shops.

One reviewer appreciated the quality of the silk but pointed out the pushy sales tactics, so if shopping isn’t your priority, be prepared to politely decline.

Third Stop: Summer Palace (Yiheyuan)

The Summer Palace is a true highlight, often praised for its stunning architecture and lush gardens. The tour covers the grounds, including temples, pavilions, bridges, and the famous man-made lake. Many mention that they only toured the grounds and didn’t go inside the palace buildings—something to keep in mind if you’re eager for an in-depth exploration.

The pictorial views and serene environment are perfect for photo ops. Several reviews highlight that the Summer Palace is a beautiful and peaceful escape from the city’s hustle, with one reviewer calling the “secret garden” particularly inspiring.

Fourth Stop: Panda Garden and Zoo

A visit to the Panda Garden is a crowd favorite; many travelers find the pandas adorable and unforgettable. The zoo area is well-maintained, and some reviewers comment that the panda encounter is a “living Chinese treasure” not to be missed. The tour typically lasts around two hours, giving ample time to see the pandas and explore the nearby sculptures.

Summary of Activities

The tour wraps up with a visit to a silk and pearl showroom, where some guests feel the emphasis on shopping can slightly overshadow the sightseeing. The guides may encourage purchases, which can be a mixed experience depending on your shopping interests.

Finally, you’ll return to your hotel in a comfortable coach, often feeling that you’ve gained a well-rounded view of Beijing—from spiritual temples to imperial palaces and adorable pandas.

Practical Insights

Transportation and Comfort

Travel is by deluxe air-conditioned vehicle, which is appreciated during Beijing’s warm months. The group size can be quite large (up to 999 travelers), but most reviews suggest the guides are adept at managing the pace and keeping everyone engaged.

Duration and Timing

Most travelers find the 7-hour duration appropriate, though some mention that the day can stretch to over 10 hours due to shopping stops or optional activities like boat rides. If you’re on a tight schedule, this is something to keep in mind: the tour offers a packed itinerary.

Cost and Value

At $93, the tour includes entrance fees, lunch, transportation, and a knowledgeable guide, which makes it a convenient, budget-friendly option. Some reviewers feel the value outweighs the minor downsides, especially with the inclusion of the Panda Garden and the scenic Summer Palace.

Guides and Experience

The guides, such as William, Mary, and Michael, receive frequent praise for their knowledge and friendly demeanor. They often go beyond basic facts, sharing personal stories and cultural insights, making the experience more engaging.

Caveats

Some travelers express dissatisfaction with sales pitches at shops, feeling they detract from the authenticity. Also, the fast pace might mean skipping some details or not having enough time at each stop, especially if you want to explore in depth.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you’re after a structured, guided overview of Beijing’s top sights, this tour is a solid choice. It’s especially suitable for first-time visitors who want a comprehensive day that covers history, culture, and wildlife in one go.

It’s ideal for travelers who prefer guided commentary to self-exploration and don’t mind a busy schedule. Those looking for an authentic, leisurely experience or who dislike shopping stops might want to consider alternative options or shorter tours.

For families, especially those with children who love pandas, this tour offers a memorable highlight. Budget-conscious travelers will appreciate the all-in-one package that combines entrance fees, transport, and meals, saving time and money.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, pickup is offered from centrally located hotels within the 4th ring circle. Outside this zone, you’ll need to meet at the Prime Hotel.

How long is the total tour?
The guided tour lasts approximately 7 hours, but some travelers report it can stretch to over 10 hours due to shopping stops or optional activities.

Are entrance fees included?
Yes, all entrance tickets for the Lama Temple, Summer Palace, and Panda Garden are included.

What is the group size?
The tour can accommodate up to 999 travelers, but most reviews suggest it’s managed smoothly with small groups or large groups alike.

Is lunch provided?
A Chinese-style lunch is included, and most find it satisfying, though not gourmet. It’s a good way to refuel for the busy day ahead.

Are there shopping stops?
Yes, the tour includes visits to silk and pearl shops where you can browse and purchase souvenirs; some guests find the sales pitches a bit pushy.

Can I do the boat ride at the Summer Palace?
Yes, there is an optional boat ride available for extra cost, which some travelers enjoy adding for scenic views of the lake.

What is the best time to book?
Most travelers book about 28 days in advance, ensuring availability and better planning.

Is this suitable for all ages?
Yes, the tour is suitable for most travelers, including families, but be prepared for a full, somewhat busy day.

To sum it up, the Beijing Historical Tour II offers a well-rounded snapshot of the city’s most cherished sites. With knowledgeable guides, comfortable transportation, and a mix of cultural highlights, it delivers good value for those eager to see Beijing without the fuss of planning every detail. Just be ready for a full day and some shopping pitches, and you’ll likely walk away with a deeper appreciation for China’s capital.