Savor Beijing’s Imperial Eats, Palaces, and Hidden Hutongs

Begin your Beijing adventure by exploring the historic hutongs on a guided food crawl. Visit four carefully selected stops to taste some of the city’s most iconic dishes while learning about the stories behind each neighborhood. Walk past watchtowers that once signaled approaching armies and try a legendary toboggan slide for a playful glimpse of local traditions. Continue to the Forbidden City and marvel at over nine thousand rooms filled with imperial history, imagining the lives of emperors, concubines, and officials who once called this palace home. Along the way, savor Beijing’s famous roast duck served with all the traditional accompaniments, a culinary experience that has delighted locals and visitors for generations.

Experience authentic regional cuisine at a Xinjiang restaurant tucked away in a quiet hutong alley, where large shared dishes showcase rich flavors and cultural heritage. In the morning, try traditional breakfast dishes like Beijing-style crepes and millet porridge with sesame paste while wandering historic alleys. Take part in a hands-on dumpling-making session in a private kitchen, paired with classic stir-fried dishes for a complete meal. End the tour with a guided e-bike ride along Beijing’s Central Axis, stopping at landmarks such as the Drum Tower and other historic sites. This journey blends culinary delights with cultural exploration, offering a deep and immersive experience of Beijing’s vibrant food and history.