Hutongs, Drum Tower & Duck Dinner

The day

What This Day Feels Like

This day runs on old Beijing’s clock: start at midday, end with dinner. It begins under the incense smoke of the Lama Temple, Beijing’s most atmospheric working monastery, and moves into the grey-brick hutong lanes by rickshaw — including tea in a real courtyard home with the family who has lived there for three generations.

As the light goes golden you climb the Drum Tower for the drumming performance, stroll Houhai’s lakes as the lanterns come on, and finish with the city’s signature meal: whole roast duck, carved tableside, at a restaurant locals actually book.

Good to know

Before You Go

• Runs midday to evening — mornings stay free for shopping or a lie-in
• The courtyard family visit is genuine — feel free to bring questions (your driver translates)
• Duck dinner is pre-reserved; tell us about dietary needs in advance
• Houhai bar street gets lively after 20:00 — stay on if you like, and we’ll adjust the pickup