2-Day Tour With Enjoying Sunrise From Mutianyu Great Wall

A 2-Day Tour Offering a Genuine Window into Beijing’s Most Iconic Sites

If you’re after an authentic taste of Beijing’s ancient marvels without feeling rushed, this 2-day tour with Joy China Tour might be just what you need. Priced at $1,060 per person, it packs in visits to renowned spots like the Mutianyu Great Wall—famous for its stunning sunrise views—the Forbidden City, the Summer Palace, and the Temple of Heaven. It also includes cultural experiences like a tea ceremony and visits to a silk factory and jade museum.

What we love most about this tour is how it balances iconic sites with authentic cultural moments. The early morning sunrise over the Great Wall is unforgettable—it’s a chance to see one of the world’s most famous sights in a quiet, almost mystical light. Plus, the round-trip transfers and 4-star hotel stay add a layer of convenience that makes the experience less stressful.

The one potential consideration? The tour’s price might seem steep compared to self-guided options, but when you factor in private transport, expertly guided commentary, and all entrance fees, it’s a solid value for those seeking a seamless, curated experience. It’s especially well-suited for travelers who want a structured tour with the comfort of a private vehicle and knowledgeable guides.

This tour suits history enthusiasts, first-time visitors eager to see the highlights, or travelers who appreciate a blend of sightseeing, cultural insight, and comfortable logistics. If authentic, well-organized experiences matter, this is worth considering.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Convenience: Private transport, hotel stays, entrance fees, and guided commentary make this a hassle-free experience.
• Spectacular Views: Sunrise at Mutianyu offers breathtaking photos and a peaceful way to experience the Wall.
• Authentic Cultural Experiences: Tea ceremony, silk factory, jade museum, and insightful guides enhance your understanding.
• Flexible Itinerary: The tour can be tailored to your preferences, with options for alternative sites if needed.
• Ideal for First-Time Visitors: Covers all major highlights in a manageable, well-organized manner.
• Limited Group Size: The private vehicle and guided approach ensure personal attention and comfort.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring Beijing’s Top Highlights in Detail

Starting with the Summer Palace and Tea Ceremony

Your journey begins with a warm meet-up with your English-speaking guide and driver, either at Beijing International Airport or Daxing Airport. We loved how this initial contact feels smooth, setting a relaxed tone for the days ahead. The Summer Palace is a true highlight—an expansive ensemble of lakes, gardens, and palaces that exemplifies classical Chinese landscape design. It’s a place where you can easily lose yourself wandering through pavilions and bridges, taking in views of the vast Kunming Lake.

Afterward, a tea ceremony at a teahouse offers a chance to step into Chinese cultural tradition. The experience isn’t just about drinking tea but understanding its significance in daily life and social bonding. Many travelers find these moments an authentic glimpse into local customs, adding depth to the sightseeing.

Day 1: The Great Wall at Mutianyu and Arrival at the Hotel

Your first day culminates at the Mutianyu section of the Great Wall, famous for its dense battlements and fewer crowds. The architecture here is striking, with enemy towers and passes built into the landscape. We appreciated the attention to the Wall’s history—your guide will point out features like the main pass platform and the impressive altitude of the northwest pass, over 1200 meters.

What makes Mutianyu special is the opportunity to see this ancient marvel early in the morning, during sunrise. According to feedback, travelers are thrilled with this experience: “The sunrise view from Mutianyu was unforgettable,” one said, “quiet, misty, and absolutely inspiring.” It’s a rare chance to witness the Wall in a serene, almost spiritual setting, free from the usual crowds.

After enjoying the scenic vistas, you’ll transfer to your hotel near the Wall, which offers a comfortable base for the night. The hotel is a 4-star accommodation, providing a nice balance of comfort and value, with breakfast included.

Day 2: Forbidden City, Jade Museum, and Temple of Heaven

Early risers can head out on their own from the hotel to watch the sunrise again at Mutianyu—many find it a peaceful, reflective moment before the day’s busy sightseeing begins.

Next, a quick stop at the Jade Museum introduces you to the importance of jade in Chinese culture. It’s a fascinating insight into craftsmanship and tradition that many travelers find surprisingly interesting.

From there, the tour moves to Tiananmen Square, one of the largest public squares in the world and a symbol of Beijing’s history. Due to government policies, the Forbidden City may be replaced with a visit to Jingshan Park if tickets are unavailable, which still offers stunning views over Beijing and a taste of imperial history.

The Forbidden City remains a highlight—an immense complex of palaces, halls, and courtyards, showcasing the grandeur of China’s Ming and Qing dynasties. Many visitors comment on its architectural brilliance and sheer scale: “Walking through the halls, you can get a sense of imperial power and artistry,” a reviewer shared.

En route to the Temple of Heaven, you’ll visit a silk factory, learning about China’s traditional silk-cultivation process—a tangible connection to the country’s craftsmanship.

The Temple of Heaven is an awe-inspiring site, originally used for imperial ceremonies. It’s the largest surviving ancient ceremonial complex in China and offers a peaceful contrast to the urban hustle. Many find it a perfect place to reflect on China’s spiritual heritage.

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Practical Details and What’s Included

Your package covers lunch, entrance fees, a guide, private transport, and hotel accommodations. The two nights at a 4-star hotel ensure you’re well-rested, and the private vehicle makes traveling between sites comfortable and efficient.

Note that cable car fees for the Great Wall are not included, so if you want to take the cable car up or down, budget accordingly. Souvenir photos are available for purchase, but not included in the price.

What to Keep in Mind

The tour requires passport details for ticketing, so be prepared to share your passport name, number, and other info upfront. Also, consider that Forbidden City tickets are limited, so availability can affect the itinerary—your guide will adapt if needed.

While the tour is designed for flexibility, it’s important to note that pregnant women are advised against participating, mainly due to early mornings and extensive walking.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

This 2-day experience offers a comprehensive, well-organized introduction to Beijing’s most iconic sites. If you value expert guiding, cultural insights, and the chance to visit famous landmarks comfortably, this tour is an excellent choice. It’s particularly suited for those new to China or travelers who prefer a seamless, all-inclusive approach instead of navigating complex transportation and ticketing on your own.

The standout feature—the sunrise at Mutianyu—makes it a memorable experience for photography lovers or anyone wanting a more reflective, less crowded view of the Great Wall. Pair that with the chance to walk through the majestic Forbidden City and explore Beijing’s spiritual heart at the Temple of Heaven, and you have a well-rounded visit.

However, if you’re on a tight budget, or prefer more freedom in your schedule, consider doing some sites independently. But for someone who wants peace of mind, detailed guidance, and a touch of luxury, this tour offers great value.

Frequently Asked Questions

What sites are included in this tour?
You’ll visit the Summer Palace, Mutianyu Great Wall (including sunrise), Jade Museum, Tiananmen Square, Forbidden City (or Jingshan Park if tickets are unavailable), and Temple of Heaven. You also experience a tea ceremony and a visit to a silk factory.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
While generally suitable for most travelers, it’s best for those comfortable with walking and early mornings. Pregnant women are advised to avoid it.

Are meals included?
Yes, lunch is included each day, providing a chance to enjoy local cuisine.

What is the accommodation like?
You’ll stay at a 4-star hotel for two nights, with breakfast included, offering a comfortable base after busy days of sightseeing.

How do I book the tour?
Booking requires your passport details—name, date of birth, and passport number—so have those ready. You can reserve now and pay later.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, full refunds are available if you cancel up to 24 hours in advance.

Are there extra costs I should budget for?
Yes, Great Wall cable car fees are not included, and souvenirs are available for purchase if you wish.

Is transportation comfortable?
Absolutely. The tour provides private vehicle transfers between sites, making the experience smooth and relaxed.

What if I want to customize the experience?
The itinerary is described as flexible, and guides can tailor some parts according to your preferences, especially if tickets for certain sites are unavailable.

In essence, this tour offers a thoughtfully curated experience of Beijing’s highlights, blending history, culture, and breathtaking views. It’s ideal for travelers who want to see the major sights without the hassle of planning every detail themselves—while still gaining meaningful cultural insights. If you’re after a memorable, comfortable introduction to China’s capital, this tour might very well be your best option.

You can check availability for your dates here: