Beijing: Hutong & Wet Market Walking Tour Local Wet Market with Hutong Paper-Cutting/Calligraphy

Explore the heart of Beijing on foot with a guided Hutong and wet market walking tour. Visit a traditional morning market, discover hidden alleyways, and engage in hands-on cultural activities.
Step into the rhythm of daily Beijing life with this immersive walking tour that blends the city’s vibrant local wet market culture with the charm of ancient Hutongs. Perfect for those looking for an authentic cultural experience in Beijing, this tour takes you through fresh food markets, narrow historical alleys, and offers hands-on classes like dumpling-making or Chinese calligraphy. From local snacks to architectural gems, this half-day activity is a rich dive into Beijing's traditions and daily routine.

Itinerary: Local Wet Market & Hutong Exploration

Start Point: Gulou Street Subway Station (Line 2, Exit B)

• Meet your English-speaking tour guide at the designated subway exit for a prompt start to your journey.

10:00 AM – XinMing Wet Market Visit (1 Hour)

• Walk 10 minutes to reach one of Beijing’s most lively and colorful wet markets (morning only).
• Discover how locals shop for fresh vegetables, meats, fruits, and Beijing specialty snacks.
• Learn about local ingredients, interact with friendly vendors, and pick up simple Mandarin phrases.

11:00 AM – Hutong Walking Tour (1 Hour)

• Walk 15 minutes into the heart of Beijing's historic Hutongs—narrow alleyways lined with traditional courtyard homes (Siheyuan).
• Gain insight into the cultural and historical significance of these unique neighborhoods.
• Explore family-run shops, community life, and ancient architectural details.

Noon – Cultural Activity in Local Courtyard (30–60 Minutes)

Visit a local family courtyard for a traditional cultural activity (varies by day):
• Chinese calligraphy
• Paper cutting
• Facial makeup art
• Dumpling-making (includes eating your creation for lunch)

1:00 PM – Explore Nearby Drum & Bell Towers or Houhai Lake (Optional)

• After the official tour ends, guests can continue exploring the area independently.
• Visit iconic landmarks like the Beijing Drum & Bell Towers or stroll around scenic Houhai Lake.

What’s Included

• English-speaking guide
• Cultural activity of your choice (based on selected option)
• Dumpling lunch (only if selected)

What’s Not Included

• Transportation to/from the meeting point
• Additional meals or snacks not mentioned
• Personal expenses

Optional Add-ons

• Multi-language guide (Chinese, French, Spanish – based on availability)
• Private Beijing city tour extension
• Evening walking tour of Houhai Lake with tea tasting

Important Information

• No smoking indoors
• No alcohol or drugs
• Do not feed animals
• Casual walking tour – wear comfortable clothing and shoes
• Please arrive on time at Gulou Street Station (Line 2, Exit B)

To guarantee availability book as soon as possible. Early booking is worth consideration especially if you planning the trip during high season like public holidays or weekends.

This excursion you can cancel with no cost up to 24 hours before the start of the trip. If you cancel it after 24 hours or not show up on the excursion you will still be charged the full price of the activity. Being late on pick-up or departure will be considered as not showing up.