Summer Palace & Lunch at Commune by the Great Wall Day Tour

Taking a day out to explore Beijing’s must-see landmarks is a fantastic way to get a sense of China’s imperial grandeur and impressive engineering feats. This Summer Palace & Lunch at Commune by the Great Wall tour promises a well-rounded experience, blending cultural sights with relaxing downtime. While it’s a full day packed with sightseeing, it offers the convenience of private transportation and a knowledgeable guide, making it ideal for travelers wanting a curated, hassle-free adventure.

What we particularly like about this tour is the seamless visit to two of Beijing’s top attractions—the elegant Summer Palace and the iconic Great Wall—paired with a specially curated lunch at Commune, celebrated as a modern architectural marvel. Plus, the inclusion of a hot spring bath at Jiuhua adds a relaxing finish to your busy day. That said, the day can feel quite packed, especially on weekends when crowds swell, so be prepared for a full schedule. This tour suits those eager to combine cultural exploration with some leisure, especially if you prefer a private, guided experience over DIY sightseeing.

Key Points

• Private Tour Advantage: Personalized guide and vehicle for a more flexible experience.
• Cultural Highlights: Visit the sprawling Summer Palace with its impressive architecture and scenic views.
• Iconic Landmark: Access to the Great Wall via private entry, ensuring less crowd and more immersive experience.
• Culinary Experience: Enjoy a thoughtfully prepared lunch at Commune, an architectural gem.
• Relaxation: End the day with a soak in Jiuhua Hot Spring, known for its therapeutic micro-elements.
• Considerations: The itinerary is busy, and weekends can be crowded, so plan accordingly.

In-Depth Review of the Tour Experience

Starting the Day: Pickup and Initial Impressions

Most travelers begin their adventure with an 8:00 am hotel pickup, which means an early start but a smooth beginning. The private vehicle, whether a car or van, provides a comfortable ride and keeps the day flowing. Your guide, usually an English speaker, is there to enrich your understanding with facts and stories, making the experience more engaging.

Exploring the Summer Palace: Imperial Grandeur

The first stop is the Summer Palace, a sprawling royal garden that oozes elegance and tranquility. We loved the chance to walk along the Long Corridor, recognized as the longest covered corridor in the world, with its intricate paintings and relaxing atmosphere. The palace’s architecture, with a mix of pavilions, temples, and bridges, is set against the backdrop of Kunming Lake and the hills—sights that truly make you appreciate the scale and beauty of imperial China.

The Seventeen Arches Bridge is a highlight, offering great photo opportunities, while the Qingyan Stone Boat provides a glimpse into traditional leisure pursuits of old Chinese aristocrats. Our guide, who was notably knowledgeable, shared stories about the palace’s history and the significance of its design, making the visit both educational and visually stunning.

Lunch at Commune by the Great Wall: A Modern Marvel

After soaking in the history and scenery, you’ll enjoy lunch at Commune by the Great Wall, famed as a “New Architectural Wonder of China.” This restaurant isn’t just about good food; it’s a visual feast. The blend of modern architecture with scenic views of the Great Wall makes it a memorable dining experience. Expect well-prepared dishes that showcase local flavors, with dietary needs accommodated if advised earlier.

Private Access to the Great Wall: Less Crowd, More Connection

Unlike many public sections of the Great Wall, this tour offers private access, which means fewer travelers and a more personal appreciation of this UNESCO World Heritage site. While the exact section isn’t specified, the access typically allows for a more relaxed exploration, and you can enjoy panoramic vistas without the throngs of visitors common elsewhere.

Post-Lunch Relaxation at Jiuhua Hot Spring

The day continues with a trip to Jiuhua Hot Spring Resort, where you can unwind in the mineral-rich pools. The water, sourced from 1230 meters underground and maintained around 40°C, is said to have therapeutic properties, especially beneficial for skin conditions and pigment issues. We loved the opportunity to relax after a busy morning, and many reviews highlighted how the micro-element-rich waters leave skin feeling refreshed—a perfect restorative touch.

Return Journey: Comfort and Convenience

After the hot spring, you’ll be driven back to your hotel in central Beijing. The entire experience, from pickup to drop-off, is designed to be smooth, allowing you to focus on enjoying the sights rather than navigating logistics.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Knowledgeable Guides: Multiple reviews note the guides’ ability to make history accessible and engaging. Their insights turn a sightseeing trip into a fascinating story, enriching your understanding of each site.

Stunning Views: From the Summer Palace’s scenic lakes and gardens to the vistas from the Great Wall, the visual rewards are abundant. The private access allows for closer, less rushed photography.

Cultural and Leisure Balance: The combination of historical exploration, modern architecture at Commune, and relaxing hot springs means you get a well-rounded experience. It’s not just about ticking boxes but about experiencing different facets of Beijing’s appeal.

Convenience & Comfort: The private transportation, all-included entrance fees, and lunch eliminate many logistical headaches. This is especially valuable if you’re unfamiliar with Beijing’s transit system or prefer a more structured day.

Potential Drawbacks or Considerations

While the tour offers great value, it does pack in a lot, which might leave some feeling rushed—particularly if you’re a slow walker or want more time at each site. Weekends tend to be busier at popular spots, potentially affecting the tranquil experience at the Summer Palace or the Great Wall. So, if you’re a traveler who prefers more leisurely visits, consider doing this tour on a weekday or discussing flexibility with your guide.

The hot spring is a delightful addition, but it’s only a three-hour soak, so if your primary focus is cultural sightseeing, it might feel like a quick detour. Also, travelers with limited mobility should note the physicality involved in walking and exploring these sites, although the tour does require only a moderate level of fitness.

Final Thoughts

This private tour offers a comprehensive, curated experience of some of Beijing’s most iconic sights, balanced with leisure and excellent amenities. It’s ideal for history buffs who want a guided, insightful journey combined with relaxation. The inclusion of private access to the Great Wall and a premium lunch at Commune really adds a special touch that many standard tours lack.

For travelers who value comfort and expert guidance, this tour presents solid value in a city as vast and busy as Beijing. It’s a good pick for those eager to see top sights without the stress of planning every detail themselves, especially if they appreciate a mix of culture, modern architecture, and wellness.

FAQ

Is this a private tour?
Yes, it is a private experience, so only your group will participate, ensuring personalized attention.

What is included in the price?
The fee covers entrance fees, private transportation, an English-speaking guide, and lunch.

How long does the tour last?
The overall duration is approximately 8 hours, starting around 8:00 am and returning to your hotel afterward.

Can I customize the itinerary?
This specific tour includes the highlighted stops, but you can discuss any special requests with your guide.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children are welcome but must be accompanied by an adult and should have a moderate fitness level.

What should I wear?
Dress appropriately for all weather conditions—comfortable shoes are recommended for walking.

Will I have time at each site?
Yes, the itinerary is designed to balance sightseeing and relaxation, but it is quite full, especially on weekends.

Are entrance fees included?
Yes, all entrance fees for the listed attractions are included.

How is the transportation arranged?
You’ll be picked up and dropped off in an air-conditioned vehicle, ensuring comfort throughout the day.

What if the weather is poor?
The tour operates in all weather conditions, but if canceled due to bad weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

This tour provides a taste of Beijing’s imperial past, modern architecture, and natural relaxation, all with the comfort of private, guided service. Perfect for travelers seeking a balanced blend of culture, scenery, and leisure in one memorable day.