Beijing: Summer Palace and Panda House Guided Tour

Exploring the grandeur of Beijing’s historical sites and the captivating world of pandas, this guided tour offers an unparalleled experience. Visitors can enjoy the rich cultural heritage of the Summer Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, while an expert guide unveils the intriguing stories behind its iconic architecture. And for those seeking a glimpse of China’s beloved national treasures, the Panda House promises an enchanting encounter with these gentle giants. With convenient transportation options, this tour promises to leave a lasting impression on adventurous travelers.

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Key Points

Explore the UNESCO-listed Summer Palace and Panda House on a 5-hour guided tour in Beijing.
Tour includes visits to iconic sites like the Long Corridor, Tower of Buddhist Incense, and Marble Boat.
Observe pandas in their natural habitat and learn about conservation efforts for this endangered species.
Tour is priced at $91.80 per person with up to 15% discount and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Transportation options include affordable metro and private car service with hotel pickup and drop-off.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The Beijing Guided Tour is a 5-hour excursion that allows visitors to explore the iconic Summer Palace and the Panda House in the city.

Priced at $91.80 per person, the tour offers a discounted rate of up to 15% off the original price. Guests can reserve their spot without upfront payment and enjoy free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

The tour covers key sites like the Hall of Benevolence and Longevity, the Long Corridor, the Tower of Buddhist Incense, and the Marble Boat, providing an in-depth look at the history and architecture of the Summer Palace.

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Tour Highlights

This guided tour offers several key highlights for visitors.

Explore the magnificent Summer Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Explore the magnificent Summer Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Wander through the Long Corridor, home to over 8,000 vibrant paintings.

Ascend the Tower of Buddhist Incense for panoramic views.

Marvel at the iconic Marble Boat, symbolizing the stability of the Qing dynasty.

Plus, the tour includes a visit to the Beijing Panda House, where you can observe these captivating creatures in their natural habitat.

Throughout the experience, an expert guide provides insightful historical anecdotes, enriching your understanding of Beijing’s rich cultural heritage.

Exploring the Summer Palace

As visitors explore the Summer Palace, they’ll be captivated by its rich history and stunning architecture.

The Long Corridor, stretching over 2,000 feet, showcases over 8,000 intricate paintings. Nearby, the Tower of Buddhist Incense offers panoramic views of the palace grounds.

One of the most iconic structures is the Marble Boat, a symbol of the Qing dynasty’s stability and power.

Throughout the site, guests can imagine the grandeur of the imperial family’s summer retreat, learning about the palace’s significance in Chinese history from the expert tour guide.

Visiting the Panda House

After exploring the grandeur of the Summer Palace, visitors can now turn their attention to the Panda House, where they’ll have the chance to see these beloved creatures in their natural habitat.

At the Panda House, guests will observe the pandas’ daily activities and learn about their conservation efforts. The knowledgeable tour guide will provide insights into the pandas’ behaviors and the importance of protecting this endangered species.

This part of the tour offers a unique opportunity to witness the pandas’ gentle nature and appreciate the efforts to preserve this iconic symbol of China.

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Transportation Options

Visitors have various transportation options to reach the Panda House and Summer Palace during the guided tour.

The most affordable option is to take the metro, which provides convenient access to both sites. The tour also offers a private car service for those seeking more comfort and convenience. This option includes hotel pickup and drop-off.

Plus, the tour guide meets participants in the hotel lobby, ensuring a seamless start to the excursion.

Metro: Travel to the Panda House and Summer Palace using the Beijing Metro system.
Private Car: Option available for more comfort and convenience.
Pickup: Tour guide meets participants in the hotel lobby.

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Tour Inclusions

The tour includes several key features that enhance the overall experience.

Entrance fees to both the Panda House and the Summer Palace are covered. Travelers will also receive metro tickets, allowing them to navigate the city’s public transportation system.

An expert live tour guide provides insightful commentary and historical anecdotes throughout the journey.

For added convenience, hotel drop-off is available for guests who opt for the private car transportation.

While meals and drinks aren’t included, gratuities are left to the discretion of the participants.

With these inclusions, the tour offers a seamless and informative exploration of Beijing’s iconic landmarks.

Important Considerations

When visiting the Beijing Panda House and Summer Palace, it’s important to wear comfortable shoes as moderate walking is involved.

Plus, dress according to the weather and bring a water bottle to stay hydrated. To keep belongings secure, be mindful in crowded areas.

Dress for the weather and stay hydrated. Be mindful of your belongings in crowded areas.

The tour includes metro tickets and entrance fees, but meals and drinks aren’t provided. Gratuities for the tour guide are optional.

Prepare to use public transportation during the tour, as hotel drop-off is only available for the private car option.

Customer Feedback

Customers have provided overwhelmingly positive feedback on this guided tour, with an overall rating of 5 out of 5 stars based on 5 reviews.

Reviewers praise the tour guide’s extensive knowledge and helpful assistance, allowing them to learn about the history and significance of the Summer Palace and Panda House.

Many appreciate the convenience of the included metro tickets and entrance fees, as well as the option for private car transportation.

Visitors consistently describe the tour as an informative and enjoyable experience, highlighting the impressive sights and the guide’s ability to navigate the crowds efficiently.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?

The dress code for the tour is to wear comfortable shoes, as moderate walking is involved. Dress according to the weather conditions and bring a water bottle to stay hydrated during the tour.

Can We Take Pictures of the Pandas?

Visitors are generally allowed to take photos of the pandas during the tour, but they should follow any instructions from the tour guide or panda house staff. Photography may be restricted in certain areas for the pandas’ welfare.

Is There a Discount for Children or Students?

The tour doesn’t offer any discounted tickets for children or students. The standard price is $91.80 per person, with no special pricing available. The tour is open to all ages, though the walking may be challenging for young children.

Do We Have Time for Shopping at the Panda House?

The tour does not include dedicated time for shopping at the Panda House. The focus is on viewing the pandas in their habitat. Visitors can explore the gift shop briefly before moving on to the Summer Palace portion of the tour.

Are There Any Restroom Breaks During the Tour?

Yes, the tour includes scheduled restroom breaks. According to the tour details, visitors will have opportunities to use the restrooms during the visit to the Panda House and the Summer Palace on this 5-hour guided tour.

The Sum Up

Enjoy Beijing’s captivating history and wildlife on this guided tour of the Summer Palace and Panda House. Discover the ornate architecture and lush gardens of the UNESCO-listed palace, then witness the charm of the pandas in their natural habitat. With seamless transportation options and an expert guide, it’s an unforgettable way to explore the city’s iconic attractions.