Craft Beer & Street Food Tour in Old Beijing Hutongs

A Tasty Introduction to Old Beijing: Craft Beer & Street Food Tour

This 3-hour private tour in Beijing offers an engaging glimpse into the city’s lively street food and craft beer scenes, all set against the backdrop of the historic hutongs. Starting at Shique Hutong, you’ll visit four craft breweries and sample four different street foods, ending at the iconic Drum & Bell Tower courtyard. With a price of $122 per person, this experience is designed for those eager to explore Beijing beyond its famous landmarks and discover its local flavors.

Two aspects stand out immediately. First, the guides—we hear from enthusiastic travelers that their guides, like Xin, offer informative and friendly commentary, making each stop both enjoyable and educational. Second, the authenticity of the food and drinks—all street foods are included, ensuring you taste real Beijing rather than touristy gimmicks.

A potential consideration is that alcoholic beverages are not included—you’ll want to budget extra if beer or other drinks are a must for you. This tour is best suited for adventurous eaters and craft beer lovers who enjoy exploring local neighborhoods and sampling authentic street cuisine. It’s perfect if you want a relaxed, intimate vibe coupled with genuine local experiences.

Key Points

• Authentic Experiences: Visit vibrant hutong neighborhoods and local craft breweries.
• Inclusive Tastings: All street foods are included, offering a true taste of Beijing.
• Expert Guides: Guides like Xin provide insightful and friendly commentary.
• Flexible & Private: The experience is tailored for your group, enhancing comfort and interaction.
• Cultural Insight: Learn about Beijing’s history and culture through its culinary scene.
• Ideal for Food & Beer Fans: Perfect for those who love discovering local flavors away from crowded tourist spots.

Exploring Beijing’s Hidden Flavors in a Compact Pack

This tour offers a well-balanced blend of food, culture, and craft beer—a winning combo that makes the most of a short visit. We loved the way the itinerary combines four craft breweries with four street foods, giving you a taste of Beijing’s thriving modern brewing scene alongside traditional snack stalls. It’s a clever way to experience two very different sides of the city’s culinary life.

The location starting point at Shique Hutong situates you right in the heart of Beijing’s historic alleyways—these narrow lanes are ideal for feeling the city’s pulse away from the tourist crowds. Ending at the Drum & Bell Tower courtyard wraps up the experience with a spectacular view of the city’s skyline and a chance to absorb some of Beijing’s ancient ambiance.

One of the highlights, based on reviews, is the knowledgeable guidance. Xin, the guide mentioned, is praised for providing great information on the history and culture behind each stop. This elevates the tour from just tasting to understanding, which is especially valuable for travelers eager to connect with the city on a deeper level.

In-Depth Itinerary Breakdown

Stop 1: Shique Hutong – The Starting Point

The tour kicks off in the lively Shique Hutong area, a neighborhood packed with local charm and traditional architecture. Here, you’ll meet your guide and get familiar with your surroundings. From the outset, the focus is on authenticity—this isn’t a sanitized tourist trap but a real neighborhood where locals live and work.

Stop 2-5: Visiting Four Craft Breweries

Each brewery offers a different flavor, style, or brewing philosophy. While the exact breweries aren’t named, we can infer that they showcase Beijing’s expanding craft beer scene, which is gaining popularity for its innovative brews and local pride. Expect to taste local craft beers, which might range from hoppy IPAs to darker stouts, depending on what each brewery specializes in.

Travelers have noted that the guides are keen to share interesting insights into brewing methods and beer styles, making this part of the tour both fun and educational. You’ll get a feel for how Beijing’s craft beer scene is evolving as a reflection of modern Chinese culture—an exciting contrast to the city’s traditional image.

Stop 6-9: Sampling Four Street Foods

Your taste buds will be spoiled with local street foods. While the specifics aren’t listed, typical Beijing street fare may include jianbing, baozi, chuan’r (skewers), or douhua (tofu pudding). The fact that all street foods are included means you can relax and savor each bite without extra cost or concern.

Many reviews mention how delicious and authentic these snacks are, with some quoting that they “enjoyed new foods” and appreciated the chance to try local specialties that might be hard to find elsewhere.

Ending at the Drum & Bell Tower

The tour concludes at the famous Drum and Bell Tower Courtyard, an ideal spot to take photos and reflect on your experience. This historic site offers stunning views and a peaceful atmosphere after a lively few hours of tasting and exploring.

What Travelers Say

One reviewer sums it up well: “Our guide Xin gave us a great tour. We enjoyed new foods, had a few great beers, and got a lot of information on the history and culture,” highlighting how this experience combines culinary delights with educational insight. Another mentioned that they appreciated the friendly guides and the authentic local vibe of the entire tour.

Practical Tips for Making the Most of the Tour

• Budget for extra drinks if you want to try more craft beers or beverages beyond the included street foods.
• Wear comfortable shoes—you’ll be walking through narrow hutong lanes.
• Arrive early at the meeting point to avoid any last-minute rush.
• Bring a camera—the views and street scenes are photogenic.
• The tour is suitable for most travelers; however, those wishing to indulge in alcoholic beverages should note that drinks are not included.

The Sum Up: Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is particularly well-suited for food lovers eager to experience authentic Beijing street snacks and craft beer enthusiasts curious about Beijing’s local brewing scene. It’s ideal for travelers who want a personalized and informative experience that gets them off the beaten path and into the heart of local neighborhoods. If you appreciate guides who share history and culture along with tastings, this tour will be a highlight of your Beijing visit.

It’s also a fantastic choice if you prefer a private, intimate setting, allowing you to ask questions and customize your experience. While it’s a short tour, the depth of local flavor and cultural insight makes it a memorable and worthwhile addition to your Beijing itinerary.

FAQ

Are all street foods included in the tour?
Yes, all street foods are included, so you can sample local specialties without extra cost.

Does the tour include alcoholic drinks?
No, alcoholic beverages are not included, but you’ll visit craft breweries where you can purchase drinks separately.

Where does the tour start and end?
It starts at Shique Hutong and ends at the Drum & Bell Tower courtyard.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but those who wish to drink alcohol should note drinks are not included.

Can the tour be canceled?
Yes, it offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Is transportation provided between stops?
The tour mainly takes place on foot through hutong streets, which are narrow and best explored on foot.

This Craft Beer & Street Food Tour in Old Beijing Hutongs offers a lively, tasty, and insightful way to connect with Beijing’s local life. Perfect for curious explorers eager to taste authentic flavors and learn about the city’s culture, all in a friendly, private setting.