Beijing in 1 Day for Friends - Ride by sidecar through Beijing’s historic hutongs
In Collaboration with Beijing Sidecar Tours. Updated on February 13, 2026.
A 2.5-hour sidecar tour through Beijing’s historic hutongs and markets, combining short cultural stops with a curated shopping stop at the Pearl Market. Includes hotel pick up and drop off at Pearl Market, helmets, raincoats, bottled water, a professional driver/guide, and Beijing snacks.
This itinerary was created in collaboration with Beijing Sidecar Tours, inspired by the tour Pravite Old Beijing City & Pearl Market Tour by Sidecar. Please check the tour information during your booking process.
Highlights
- Ride by sidecar through Beijing’s historic hutongs
- Explore Beiluogu Xiang and Da Jing Chang Hutong alleyways
- Relax at Houhai lakeside and see the Drum & Bell Tower
- Shop at the Pearl Market (Hongqiao Market) for accessories and replicas
Itinerary
Day 1
Start the sidecar loop at 10:00 and follow an escorted route through central Beijing’s historic Drum & Bell Tower area, nearby hutongs and Houhai, finishing with shopping at the Pearl Market (Hongqiao Market). Total duration 2 hours 30 minutes.
The Drum & Bell Tower (Gulou & Zhonglou)
Short stop to view the historic Drum and Bell Towers from outside while on the sidecar route; photo opportunity and short orientation by your driver/guide.
Tips from local experts:
- Wear closed shoes; the area has cobbled lanes and brief stepping on/off the curb for photos.
- Keep small change or mobile payment (Alipay/WeChat) handy for nearby street snacks sold around the square.
- If you’re sensitive to noise, note the towers area can be busy—stay with your guide and follow their instructions when stopping.
Beiluogu Xiang (Beiluoguxiang) - Hutong cruising
Cruise through and pause briefly along Beiluogu Xiang to experience boutique shops, cafés and narrow hutong lanes characteristic of old Beijing.
Tips from local experts:
- Follow your guide’s direction when disembarking; some alleyways are narrow and best explored in small groups.
- Bring a small backpack or secure bag—some boutique stalls accept only mobile payment or cash.
- If you want to enter any cafés or shops, tell your guide so the driver can pause safely nearby for a quick visit.
Houhai Lake (Houhai)
Sidecar route skirts the Houhai lakeside for views and a short lakeside stop to enjoy the scenery and local atmosphere.
Tips from local experts:
- Wear a light jacket in October; lakeside breezes can be cooler than inner hutongs.
- Be cautious stepping onto docks or uneven pavements; stay near the group and use marked crossing points.
- Small snack vendors operate here—use mobile pay or have small RMB notes available if you plan to buy snacks.
Da Jing Chang Hutong
Drive and brief stop along Da Jing Chang Hutong to observe traditional courtyard homes and everyday hutong life.
Tips from local experts:
- Hutong lanes can be uneven—step carefully when getting on/off the sidecar.
- Ask your guide for recommendations if you want to photograph interiors; always request permission before photographing residents.
- Keep valuables close and zipped when moving through narrow, busy sections.
Ming Dynasty City Wall (Chongwenmen area)
Short roadside stop near the remains/park area associated with the Ming city wall for context on Beijing’s historic city layout.
Tips from local experts:
- This is a roadside/photo stop—wear comfortable shoes if you want to stretch legs and walk short distances.
- If you need seating or shade, ask the guide to pause at the nearby park benches where available.
- Carry your passport or ID if planning to enter any nearby ticketed sites separately—this tour does not include paid entrance fees.
Pearl Market (Hongqiao Market) — Shopping stop and drop-off
Conclude the tour with a longer stop at the Pearl Market (Hongqiao Market) for shopping. Driver/guide will drop you here (hotel drop-off at Pearl Market included). Time allocated for browsing and bargaining.
Tips from local experts:
- Bring a mix of payment methods: cash (RMB) and mobile pay (Alipay/WeChat) are commonly accepted—confirm with each vendor.
- Bargaining is expected; start around 50–60% of the asking price and negotiate politely. Shopping is voluntary—no compulsory purchases.
- Keep receipts and check items before leaving a stall; if paying by card or mobile, confirm the exact amount before authorizing payment.
Itinerary Attributes
| Days | 1 |
| Highlights | 4 |
| Season | - |
| Month | - |
| Persona | Friends |
| Transfers | - |
| Restaurants | - |
| Total Activities | 6 |
| Total Places | 6 |
| Activities Types | Attraction, Neighborhood, Outdoor, Shopping |
