Is this tour too rushed with 3 major sites?

Not at all. The pace is comfortable and unhurried — about 2.5 hours in the Forbidden City, 1 hour at Jingshan (right across the street), and 1.5 hours at the Temple of Heaven. No bus to wait for, no crowd to follow. Your private guide adjusts the pace based on your group's energy level. Most guests tell us the rhythm feels just right.

Do I need to book Forbidden City tickets myself?

No — we handle everything. The Forbidden City requires real-name registration with passport numbers, and tickets sell out days in advance, especially in peak season. When you book with us, we secure your tickets immediately using the passport details you provide at checkout. This alone is worth booking a private tour — entry is not guaranteed for walk-up visitors.

Is this tour suitable for children or older travelers?

Yes. The route is designed to be accessible and flexible . Walking surfaces are flat and paved at all sites. Jingshan Park has a gentle ramp alternative to the stairs for the hilltop view. There are restrooms at every stop. Your guide sets a pace that works for your group — we've hosted families with toddlers and travelers in their 80s. Tell us your needs when booking and we will adapt the day.

How much walking is involved?

About 5–6 km total across all sites, spread over 8 hours with seated transfers between stops. The Forbidden City stretch is the longest continuous walk (~2 km, flat, paved). Jingshan has ~100 steps uphill — or a ramp path that takes 15 minutes with the same view. Comfortable walking shoes are all you need — no hiking involved.

Can I skip one site and spend more time at another?

Absolutely. This is a private tour — the itinerary is yours. If you want to linger in the Forbidden City and skip the Temple of Heaven, just tell your guide at the start of the day. If you prefer to swap something in, your guide will suggest alternatives that fit the route. No fixed schedule, no group to wait for.

What about lunch options for special diets?

Lunch is at your own expense — you choose what and how much to spend. We accommodate vegetarian, vegan, halal, and gluten-free diets with advance notice. Your guide selects a restaurant that fits your needs and translates the menu. Expect 40–60 RMB per person for a generous meal. Please specify dietary requirements when booking.

Is the Forbidden City open on Mondays?

No — it is closed every Monday. This is the most common trip-planning mistake visitors make. If your travel dates include a Monday, contact us before booking and we will swap your itinerary days or suggest strong alternatives like the Lama Temple, National Museum, or Confucius Temple. We catch this so you do not have to.

The tour runs rain or shine. Most of the day is indoors or under cover — the Forbidden City halls have covered walkways, the Temple of Heaven structures are fully roofed, and Jingshan Park has a pavilion at the summit. Bring an umbrella and shoes with grip. Beijing with approaching storm clouds over the golden roofs makes for remarkable photographs.

How and when do I pay?

You pay online at checkout via Stripe — secure, encrypted, and available in multiple currencies. We accept Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and UnionPay. Your payment is processed immediately and you receive instant booking confirmation with your detailed itinerary. No deposit, no cash on the day — one payment, fully confirmed.

Forbidden City & Temple of Heaven — Beijing Private Day Tour