Private Shilinxia Area and UFO Glass Platform Day Tour with Lunch

Planning a trip to Beijing and craving something beyond the usual historic sites? This private day tour to Shilinxia Scenic Area offers a fresh perspective, combining natural beauty with mind-boggling architecture. Whether you’re into scenic hikes, adrenaline-pumping views, or just want to escape the city’s hustle, this experience delivers.

What we love about this tour? First, it’s conveniently all-inclusive, with hotel pickup, a delicious local lunch, and entrance fees covered. Second, the expert guide enhances the adventure, sharing insider tips and fascinating insights. Third, the UFO Glass Platform itself is a stunning feat of engineering—offering breathtaking views from 400 meters above the gorge.

One thing to keep in mind is that the cable car is not included, so if you’re eager to ride up to the platform, budget for that extra. But overall, this tour suits travelers wanting a mix of natural exploration and a touch of thrill, all wrapped into a single day.

Key Points

• Scenic Escape: Perfect for those wanting to step outside Beijing’s busy city streets into nature.
• Unique Attraction: The UFO Glass Platform is claimed to be the largest in the world and offers spectacular views.
• All-Inclusive: Food, entrance fees, and transport are covered, making planning simple.
• Expert Guidance: Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with local insights.
• Flexible Experience: Options to hike or take the cable car (own cost) provide some choice.
• Efficient Day: With the 7-8 hour schedule, you can enjoy a relaxed yet comprehensive outing.

How the Tour Comes Together

Starting Point: Convenience from the Get-Go

Your day begins with a hotel pickup at 8:00 am, which is especially appreciated if you’re staying in central Beijing. The drive to Shilinxia takes about two hours in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle, giving you a chance to relax or chat with your guide about what’s ahead. This transfer time also means you arrive refreshed and ready to explore without the hassle of navigating public transport.

Shilingxia Scenic Area: Nature’s Quiet Corner

Once at Shilingxia, the scenic area unfolds over twelve kilometers of gorges—a true testament to the area’s untouched beauty. The entrance fee is included, so the focus is on enjoying the surroundings. You can choose to hike along the trails or ride the cable car (own expense) up to the glass platform. Many reviewers mention that the scenery is particularly stunning, with some highlighting the peaceful atmosphere as a welcome break from city life.

One traveler noted, “The views were incredible, and it felt like a secret escape from the urban chaos.” The area offers plenty of photo opportunities, with lush greenery and dramatic cliffs forming the perfect backdrop.

The UFO Glass Platform: A Modern Marvel

The star of this trip is undoubtedly the UFO Glass Sightseeing Platform. Extending 32.8 meters over the edge of the cliff, it’s claimed to be the largest glass sightseeing platform in the world. Standing on it, you get a clear, vertigo-inducing view of the deep gorge below—an experience both thrilling and awe-inspiring.

Expect to spend around three hours at this site, giving plenty of time to take photos, walk around, and absorb the panoramic vistas. The platform’s engineering is impressive, with some reviews mentioning that “it feels like you’re walking into the sky.” Be prepared for a bit of a breeze and remember that the glass floor can be a bit unnerving if you’re sensitive to heights.

Lunch: A Taste of Local Flavors

After soaking in the views, your guide will take you to a local Chinese restaurant for a traditional meal. This is a thoughtful inclusion, allowing you to enjoy authentic dishes that reflect regional flavors, often appreciated by travelers for the opportunity to try something new without the hassle of finding a good restaurant on your own.

Return Journey and Drop-off

The tour wraps up with a drop-off back at your Beijing hotel, typically by early afternoon, leaving you time to explore more of the city or relax after your adventure. The smooth, private transportation means no worries about navigating public transit or booking taxis in unfamiliar territory.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

Knowledgeable Guides

One of the highest-rated aspects, based on reviews, is the guide’s expertise. Travelers often mention guides as being friendly, informative, and enthusiastic, adding context about the area’s natural formations and engineering marvels. Having a guide who can answer questions and point out details you might miss on your own significantly enhances the experience.

Flexibility and Comfort

The private transport offers comfort and flexibility. If you want to linger longer at any spot or adjust the schedule slightly, your guide can accommodate. The cable car is optional, giving those who prefer a more active hike or want to save a bit of money a choice.

Value for Money

At $210 per person, this tour offers a lot—entrance fees, lunch, and private transportation—making it a convenient, all-in-one package. For travelers who appreciate hassle-free planning, this is a practical way to see a unique side of Beijing without worrying about logistics.

Authentic Experiences

While the UFO platform is modern, the surrounding area remains natural and relatively untouched, providing a glimpse into the province’s rugged beauty. The lunch at a local restaurant adds a cultural touch that many find memorable.

Practical Considerations

What to Bring

Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking or hiking, and bring a jacket if visiting during cooler months. Remember that the cable car is not included, so if you plan to ride, bring extra cash. Sunscreen and sunglasses are advisable if visiting in sunny weather, especially since there’s open space on the platform.

Physical Fitness

The tour is described as suitable for those with moderate physical fitness. If you’re not used to walking or heights, take care and listen to your guide. The hike around the scenic area can be leisurely, but the platform’s height might be daunting for some.

Weather Dependency

The experience is weather-dependent—poor weather could lead to cancellations or rescheduling, with a full refund available. Cloudy or rainy days may diminish the views but can also add a mystical quality to the scenery.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and those interested in engineering marvels. It works well for travelers wanting a day away from Beijing’s urban core, especially if they enjoy scenic landscapes and panoramic views. Families with children who are comfortable with heights might also find it exciting, while those with mobility concerns should consider their comfort level with hiking and standing.

Final Thoughts

This private Shilinxia and UFO Glass Platform tour combines the best of nature, modern engineering, and culture in a manageable, well-organized package. The inclusion of expert guides, authentic local lunch, and private transport makes for a smooth and enjoyable experience. It’s a fantastic choice for anyone wanting to see a different side of Beijing—one filled with dramatic landscapes and an impressive feat of architecture that will leave you both awestruck and with plenty of memorable photos.

If you’re after a blend of adventure and tranquility, and you value private, guided experiences, this tour ticks many boxes. It’s especially suitable for those who appreciate comfort and local flavor but also crave a good dose of adrenaline on their trip.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making it convenient for travelers staying in central Beijing.

How long is the drive to Shilinxia?
The transfer from Beijing takes about two hours in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle.

Can I take the cable car up instead of hiking?
Yes, you can choose to take the cable car to the glass platform, but it is an additional cost not included in the tour price.

What is the main attraction at Shilinxia?
The UFO Glass Sightseeing Platform, which extends over 30 meters and offers breathtaking views from 400 meters above the gorge.

Is food included in the tour?
Yes, a local Chinese lunch is included after exploring the scenic area.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes suitable for walking, and consider bringing a jacket or sun protection depending on the weather.

What happens in bad weather?
The tour is weather-dependent; if canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

This comprehensive review highlights what makes the Private Shilinxia and UFO Glass Platform Day Tour a worthwhile addition to your Beijing itinerary—combining natural beauty, modern marvels, and authentic local flavors in a flexible, guided format.