Introducing Beijing

Example Cultural Experiences

CITY TOUR

An introductory tour of Beijing’s most popular attractions; including Tiananmen Square (the largest city square in the world and has great cultural significance as it was the site of several important events in Chinese history), the Forbidden City (the “Russian Doll” of China. Wall after wall you will enter and see the world’s largest and best-preserved palace complex), the Temple of Heaven (considered the holiest place in Beijing, is the largest ancient imperial architectural structure for worship in the world) and the Summer Palace (Being the largest and most well-preserved royal park in China, it greatly influences Chinese horticulture and landscape with its famous natural views and cultural interests, which also has long been recognized as 'The Museum of Royal Gardens'.

Itinerary: The tour will include transfers to and from the hotel, walking tour with Winter of Tiananmen Square, the Forbidden City, the Summer Palace, as well as a traditional Chinese lunch.

*We would suggest sundowners at Capital M – just ask your guide Winter!

ACROBATICS AND DUCK DINNER

The breathtaking Beijing Acrobatics show is the most popular acrobatic show in Beijing and a MUST see for any visitor.

History: The Chinese have developed their acrobatic skills over many years, and this show is a landmark of the evolution of acrobatics in China. Traditional lion dancing, stunning bicycling, fire stunts and contortion acts are just some of the highlights that "WOW“ you. The charm of the show lies within its distinctive characteristics of the modern and Beijing tradition; representing a bridge between Chinese culture and the rest of the world.

Itinerary: The tour includes collection from the hotel, the 90 min acrobatic show, followed by a traditional Peking Duck dinner. Peking duck, also known as Beijing duck or simply Chinese roast duck, is considered one of China’s national dishes. Having been a staple for the ruling class of Beijing since a time when the Mongol Emperors ruled China, it is one of very few dishes that can claim a royal lineage of more than 700 years! With its history, tradition and delicious flavor, Peking roast duck is a must-try for all visitors to Beijing. All transfers between venues and back to the hotel will be via tour bus.

Example Site Visits

798 ART DISTRICT

798 Art Zone, or Dashanzi Art District, comprises a complex of 50-year-old decommissioned military factory buildings that boast a unique architectural style. The zone is located in Dashanzi, Chaoyang District of Beijing, that houses a thriving artistic community.

The Tea Ceremony: For the old Beijing people, the traditional tea tasting is not only a place for drinking tea, but also for enjoying the traditional performance. 

Itinerary: While you could spend days getting lost wandering from gallery to gallery, this tour will show you some of the highlights of the maze that is Beijing’s most famous art zone. The group will then be immersed in the local historical culture at one of the 170 tea houses in the city. More like a performance, the group will be shown how to properly prepare different types of tea.

MA KEE GALLERY

Awarded the title of Best Asia Designer at the 2007 Elle Style Awards, Ma Kee is one of China’s most successful artists. She has been the personal designer for Peng (China’s First Lady) since 2003 and previous accolades include an exhibition at the V&A. Celebrated for helping preserve tradition, Ma Kee uses traditional dyeing, weaving, embroidery techniques and equipment, some of which date back to the 19th century, and all stages of production are done in house. Her garments are collections of recycled material and found objects. She is praised for her efforts to preserve both tradition and the environment.

Located in the achingly cool C&C Park, Ma Ke’s showroom is in a former print factory.

Hidden behind an oversized door, this epic gallery space will make your jaw drop when you realize the extent of it. The designer to the stars is known for her painstakingly handcrafted
clothing and sustainable
products.

ADIDAS AG

Adidas AG is a German multi-national corporation, with their HQ in Germany and offices around the world. Known for designing and manufacturing shoes, clothing and accessories, it is the largest sportswear manufacturer in Europe and the second biggest in the world.

The visit includes a tour of adidas’s flagship store in Beijing, which is the largest of all their global flagship stores, with an explanation of how the visual merchandising specifically caters to the local and tourist Chinese markets.