A Day of Elegance and Relaxation in Beijing

If you’re looking for a full-day experience that balances sightseeing with rejuvenation, the Private Summer Palace and Hot Springs Tour from Beijing offers a compelling mix. For around $198 per person, you’ll spend roughly 9 hours with a private guide exploring the grandeur of the Summer Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and unwinding in the Jiuhua Hot Springs in the afternoon. The tour includes hotel pickup, lunch, entrance fees, and a private vehicle—making it an all-in-one, hassle-free way to enjoy some of the best that Beijing has to offer.

What we truly appreciate about this experience is how personalized it is, thanks to the private guide who makes history come alive, and the opportunity to relax in thermal waters that are believed to have therapeutic benefits. Plus, visiting during the week can help you avoid the crowds that often mar popular sites. That said, be prepared for a full day of activity—some travelers might find the pace a bit brisk, especially if they prefer a more leisurely sightseeing style.

This tour is especially well-suited for history buffs, garden lovers, or anyone eager to combine cultural discovery with wellness. It’s perfect if you want to avoid the hustle and bustle of larger group tours while still ticking two major attractions off your list in a single day. Keep in mind, it’s a full itinerary, so good walking shoes and an early start will serve you well.

Key Points

Balanced Itinerary: Combines cultural exploration with relaxation.
Private Guide: Ensures a tailored experience and stories that bring history alive.
All-Inclusive Pricing: Covers entrance fees, lunch, transport, and hot springs.
Therapeutic Hot Springs: Deep underground waters at about 104°F (40°C) for unwinding.
Cultural Highlights: The Summer Palace’s gardens, bridges, temples, and scenic views.
Flexible and Convenient: Hotel pickup, drop-off, and a small group feel with personalized attention.

A Closer Look at the Tour Experience

When we think about visiting Beijing, grand palaces and hot springs are top of mind. This tour hits both marks beautifully. It begins early morning—your guide will meet you at your hotel around 8am—so an early breakfast or a quick snack is wise. The convenience of hotel pickup means you avoid the hassle of navigating Beijing’s busy streets with public transport, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the city. The private vehicle, whether a car or van, is air-conditioned and offers a comfortable way to transition between stops.

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Exploring the Summer Palace

Once you arrive at the Summer Palace, you’re stepping into a sprawling showcase of imperial elegance. This UNESCO World Heritage site is renowned for its extensive gardens, pavilions, temples, and palaces. We loved the way our guide, Sue, added color and context to the visit—stories about the royal families who once called this place home, details about the Qingyan Stone Boat, and insights into the architecture of the Long Corridor. Her storytelling truly made history come alive, a sentiment echoed by many visitors who praised her knowledge and engaging style.

Highlights of the site include Kunming Lake, which is larger than many small lakes, and Longevity Hill, offering views of the sprawling grounds. The Seventeen Arches Bridge provides a picturesque photo opportunity, especially with the reflections on the water. We recommend taking your time to soak in the scenery, enjoy the tranquility, and perhaps even pause to reflect on the imperial grandeur that still lingers in the air.

Lunch and Rest

After a few hours of exploring, you’ll stop for an included lunch, typically Chinese cuisine. Depending on your dietary preferences, vegetarian options are available if you specify in advance. This break gives you a chance to recharge before heading to the hot springs.

Hot Springs at Jiuhua Resort

In the afternoon, the tour shifts gears—literally—to Jiuhua Hot Springs in Changping district. Known also as Xiaotangshan, the hot springs here originate from underground waters heated to about 104°F (40°C). These waters are believed to have therapeutic qualities, and soaking in them for a few hours can be a wonderfully relaxing experience after a morning of sightseeing.

At the resort, you’ll have access to indoor and outdoor pools, providing options based on weather and preference. Though the pools are public, they are spacious and well-maintained, offering a peaceful environment to unwind. Just remember to bring your own swimsuit, or you can purchase one on-site. Several visitors have appreciated the opportunity to relax in natural waters, noting how soothing and refreshing it can be after a busy morning.

End of the Day

The tour concludes with transportation back to your hotel in downtown Beijing. Most travelers find this a satisfying mix—seeing historic sites and then treating themselves to a soothing soak—without feeling rushed.

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What Makes This Tour Stand Out

The private guide truly enhances the experience. As one reviewer said, “History came alive!” because of the stories and insights provided, turning what could be just another sightseeing stop into a memorable learning moment. The stunning views of the gardens and lake at the Summer Palace are a definite highlight, perfect for photography or just soaking in the peaceful atmosphere.

On top of that, the hot springs add a unique wellness dimension that many travelers cherish. The water’s mineral content and temperature create an inviting environment to relax after hours of walking and exploring. Plus, the fact that the pools are well-maintained, with both indoor and outdoor options, makes this a versatile and soothing experience.

Considerations and Tips

One potential consideration is the full-day schedule—if you prefer a slower pace or are traveling with young children, this might feel a bit packed. The early start and multiple stops mean you’ll need comfortable shoes and readiness for a day on your feet.

Another aspect to keep in mind is the crowd factor. While visiting during the week helps avoid the busiest times, some parts of the Summer Palace can still get crowded, especially around popular spots like the Seventeen Arches Bridge.

Lastly, the cost, while inclusive of many amenities, is an investment. However, considering the private guide, private transport, entrance fees, and the hot springs experience, many find it offers good value, especially for a well-organized, all-in-one day trip.

The Sum Up

The Private Summer Palace and Hot Springs Tour offers a well-rounded glimpse into Beijing’s imperial past combined with a relaxing wellness break. It’s best suited for travelers who want a personalized experience, appreciate engaging storytelling, and enjoy soaking in natural waters after a day of sightseeing. The combination of cultural highlights and therapeutic hot springs makes for a memorable day, especially if you prefer avoiding large group tours.

This tour is ideal for history enthusiasts, garden lovers, and those seeking a calming escape amid their busy Beijing itinerary. The knowledgeable guide and beautiful scenery ensure you’ll leave with a richer understanding of the city’s heritage and some well-deserved relaxation.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes private transportation, hotel pickup and drop-off, entrance fees to the Summer Palace and hot springs, a Chinese lunch, and an English-speaking guide.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts about 8 hours, roughly from 8am pickup until drop-off in the late afternoon or early evening.

Can I request guides in other languages?
Yes, Spanish, Japanese, and Russian guides are available if booked at least three days in advance.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, your own swimsuit for the hot springs (or buy one on-site), and any personal items you might need for the day.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children under 3 are free, but they must be accompanied by an adult. The tour is generally suitable for most ages, but keep in mind it involves walking and a full day of activity.

What is the best time to visit to avoid crowds?
Visiting during the week is recommended to avoid the weekend crowds, especially at the Summer Palace.

Is the hot spring experience included in the price?
Yes, the hot spring entrance fee, as well as indoor and outdoor pools, are included in the tour price.

What is the price for this tour?
The cost is $198.00 per person, which covers most amenities and the full day’s activities.