The welcoming team picks you up at the hotel in the morning, ensuring a stress-free start to your Beijing adventure.
The first stop is Beihai Park. This imperial garden is a blend of natural beauty and rich history. The glistening lake, lined with ancient pavilions and palaces, presents a breathtaking view. The White Pagoda on Qionghua Island stands as a symbol of the park. Standing atop it, you can overlook the whole park and the surrounding cityscape, feeling the grandeur of ancient imperial design.
Next, we make our way to a vibrant local market. Here, the senses are immediately overwhelmed. The air is filled with the lively chatter of vendors and customers haggling over prices, the enticing aromas of various street foods, and the colourful display of fresh produce, handicrafts, and traditional goods. Wander through the narrow aisles, and you'll witness the real-life scenes of Beijing locals going about their daily shopping. Interact with the friendly vendors, learn about their products, and perhaps even pick up a unique souvenir or two. This experience provides an authentic insight into the daily life and culture of the people in Beijing.
After exploring the market, it's time for a hands-on cultural experience - making dumplings. Led by local experts, you'll step into a warm and inviting kitchen. Here, you'll learn the art of making traditional Chinese dumplings from scratch. Starting with kneading the dough, carefully preparing the filling, and then skillfully folding the dumplings into perfect shapes, every step is a discovery. As you work side by side with locals, you'll not only master a culinary skill but also get to know more about Chinese food culture, traditions, and the significance of dumplings in Chinese celebrations. And of course, the best part is tasting the delicious dumplings you've made.
At the end of this enriching morning tour, we ensure a comfortable transfer back to your hotel or help with transfer to your next station for further exploration in Beijing.