1-Day Beijing Central Axis Cycling Tour

Meet your guide at 9:00 AM in the hotel lobby to go over the day's schedule. Confirm you have the necessities and IDs, crucial for entering Tiananmen Square and the Forbidden City.

From 9:10 to 9:40, choose between a taxi ride (30–40 minutes) or a subway journey (25–35 minutes) to reach the Tiananmen Square area for bike rentals.

The guide can assist with taxi arrangements or lead the way to the subway for a quicker commute during peak hours, allowing extra time for station crowds.

Upon arriving at the bike rental spot at 9:40, the guide will manage the rental process, checking bike conditions and ensuring proper adjustments for riders.

Proceed to explore Tiananmen Square, capturing highlights such as the Tiananmen Rostrum and the Monument to the People’s Heroes while following security protocols at square entrances. A swift visit to the Forbidden City's key areas from 10:30 to 11:45 emphasizes main halls and significant spots, offering a glimpse of imperial history.

Exit the Forbidden City via the Gate of Divine Might (Shenwu Men), then cross Jingshan Front Street and climb up to Jingshan Park. Ascend to the Wanchun Pavilion at the park’s peak, the highest point on the central axis, to enjoy a panoramic view of the golden rooftops of the Forbidden City.

Treat your taste buds to a genuine slice of Beijing's culinary, where every mouthful tells the story of a tradition that spans from imperial kitchens to hutong hearths.

Kick off the afternoon by cycling to the southern bank of Shichahai—an idyllic cluster of three interconnected lakes (Qianhai, Houhai, and Xihai) that’s been a beloved spot in Beijing for centuries. Lock your bike at the designated racks near Houhai South Bank and spend the first hour soaking in the area’s relaxed vibe.

Hop back on your bike and follow the lakeside bike lane north, then turn onto Gulou West Street to reach Yandai Xiejie—a 600-year-old hutong (alleyway) once famous for its tobacco pipes, now a charming mix of antiques, handicrafts, and cozy cafes.

From Yandai Xiejie, cycle east along Gulou East Street to Beijing’s historic timekeeping center: the Bell Tower and Drum Tower, standing tall at the northern end of the city’s Central Axis.

Cycle south through tree-shaded hutongs (try Shajing Hutong for a quiet route) to Nanluoguxiang—a lively 800-year-old alley that blends traditional snacks, trendy cafes, and local culture.