The Imperial Capital & The Great Wall
"Ride the timeline of Chinese history. From the intimate maze of ancient Hutong alleyways to the challenging ascents beneath the Great Wall, experience the cultural heart of the Middle Kingdom on two wheels."
DISCOVER BEIJING
China
/ Beijing
4 days
/ 3 nights
Maximum Group Size
/ 12
Activity Level
/ 2 Stars
DAY 1 / Beijing: The Soul of the Empire
For over 3,000 years, Beijing has been the beating heart of Chinese civilization. It is a city of staggering contrasts: immense imperial palaces sit beside intimate hutong alleyways; the Great Wall snakes along the northern mountains while futuristic skyscrapers pierce the smog-free skies of the CBD. As we pedal through this living museum, you will feel the weight of history under your wheels and the vibrant pulse of a modern superpower.
Saddle-View Highlights
The Forbidden City
The Forbidden City is an expansive imperial palace complex in Beijing, China, that served as the home and political center for Chinese emperors for nearly 500 years. Constructed from 1406 to 1420 by the Ming dynasty, it was the residence of 24 emperors across the Ming and Qing dynasties.
Its name comes from the severely restricted access; ordinary people were forbidden to enter. This UNESCO World Heritage site is the world’s largest preserved royal palace complex and houses the Palace Museum. It remains a supreme example of traditional Chinese palatial architecture.
Tiananmen Square
Tiananmen Square, located in the heart of Beijing, China, is one of the largest city squares in the world. Its name comes from the Tiananmen (Gate of Heavenly Peace) to its north, which leads to the Forbidden City.
Historically significant, Chairman Mao Zedong proclaimed the founding of the People's Republic of China here on October 1, 1949. The square is home to the Monument to the People's Heroes, the Great Hall of the People, and Mao Zedong's Mausoleum. It is also globally recognized as the focal point of the 1989 pro-democracy protests, which ended in a military crackdown. Today, it remains a key political and cultural symbol in China.
Local Cuisine Recommendations
Siji Minfu Roast Duck Restaurant (Forbidden City Branch)
Founded in 2008, Si Ji Min Fu is a leading Beijing cuisine chain known for its premium roast duck. It successfully blends traditional dishes with modern presentations. The brand has expanded to about 20 outlets in Beijing and Shanghai, with its Forbidden City branch famous for its scenic views. Popular for both its signature duck and dishes like Beile Roast Meat, it consistently ranks on top dining lists. The average cost is 150-200 RMB per person. Due to its popularity, expect significant waiting times at peak hours.
Nanluoguxiang / Houhai
Nanluoguxiang (南锣鼓巷), established during the Yuan Dynasty, is a historic hutong area featuring a unique "centipede" street layout. It blends traditional courtyard architecture with a lively, trendy mix of boutiques, cafes, and street food. The adjacent Houhai (后海) is the central lake in the Shichahai area, once the Grand Canal's terminus, boosting its early prosperity. Known for picturesque scenery, it's surrounded by historic sites like Prince Gong's Mansion and offers a famous bar street for vibrant nightlife.
Shangri La / Shougang Park Beijing / DAY 1 – DAY 4
The Shangri-La Shougang Park is a breathtaking masterpiece of "adaptive reuse," where Beijing’s industrial heritage meets contemporary luxury. Located within the 2022 Winter Olympics site, the hotel is built directly into the skeleton of a decommissioned 1910s power plant.
Designed by Lissoni & Partners, the architecture preserves the original steel trusses and concrete structures, now encased in a soaring glass "Winter Garden" atrium filled with lush greenery. This "Industrial Chic" aesthetic creates a surreal, cyberpunk atmosphere where raw mechanical history is softened by five-star elegance.
The 283 guest rooms offer floor-to-ceiling views of iconic landmarks, including the Big Air Shougang ski ramp and the massive, repurposed cooling towers. Beyond the rooms, the hotel serves as a culinary hub with Shang Brew, an on-site craft brewery, and Shang Market, an expansive interactive dining space.
Staying here places you in the heart of the 9-square-kilometer Shougang Park, steps away from the No. 3 Blast Furnace museum and elevated skywalks. It is more than a hotel; it is a stunning transformation of a steel mill into an urban oasis, making it Beijing’s most visually unique destination for design lovers and urban explorers alike.
Hotel Link: https://www.trip.com/w/uBfdVWcJ2V2
DAY 2 / The Shuiguan Great Wall
The Water Pass Discover the "Water Pass," a unique and dramatic section of the Ming Dynasty’s defense. Unlike other sections that wind along ridges, Shuiguan was built directly over a rushing river to defend the valley floor, creating a stunning "V" shape that rises sharply up the cliffs. We will conquer these steep stone steps to reach the watchtowers, where the reward is a breathtaking panoramic view of the dragon-like wall coiling through the lush mountains.
Total Ride Distance 70km . Total Elevation Gain 1019m . Estimated Timeline 5hr
Saddle-View Highlights
The Shuiguan Great Wall
The Shuiguan Great Wall is a less-crowded, yet historically significant, section of the Ming Dynasty Great Wall, located near the Badaling section in Beijing's Yanqing District. Its name, "Shuiguan" (Water Pass), derives from its original function as a crucial military pass built across a valley to control water flow and provide strategic defense.
Constructed during the Ming Dynasty, this part of the wall showcases impressive architecture, including beacon towers and battlements, often winding steeply up mountain ridges. It served as a critical defense line protecting the capital from northern invasion.
CycleQuest Mentougou Base
The CycleQuest Mentougou Base serves as the ultimate gateway for your Beijing cycling adventure. Strategically located at the foot of the Western Hills, this hub is designed for "Industrial Chic" utility, offering premium bike rentals, professional mechanical support, and a community lounge for riders. From here, you have immediate access to Beijing’s premier climbing routes, including the legendary Miaofeng Mountain, or the scenic Yongding River Greenway. Whether you are picking up high-end gear or fine-tuning your itinerary, the base provides a seamless transition from the city to the mountains, ensuring you start your journey fully equipped and inspired.
Local Cuisine Recommendations
Nanmen Shuanrou Hotpot (Tiantan Branch)
Hongyuan Nanmen Shuanrou is a legendary pillar of Beijing’s culinary scene, famous for its traditional copper-pot mutton hot pot. Established in 1994 near the South Gate of Temple of Heaven, it is beloved for its commitment to "Old Beijing" authenticity.The experience centers on pristine, hand-cut mutton cooked in clear water to highlight the meat's natural quality. Their "Secret Recipe" sesame dipping sauce—often garnished with a signature smiley face made of chive flower and fermented bean curd—is iconic. With its bustling atmosphere and classic decor, it offers a timeless taste of local culture that perfectly complements a day of urban exploration.
Wangping Ancient Road
Wangping Ancient Road is not only a millennium-old commercial thoroughfare, but also a three-dimensional historical textbook. Every polished blue flagstone and every deeply etched hoof print tells the tales of its former prosperity and vicissitudes. Wandering along it, you can not only appreciate the artistic conception of "ancient road, west wind, lean horse" but also feel the pulse of history. It is an ideal destination around Beijing for exploring historical culture and getting close to natural scenery.
DAY 3 / Beijing's Oldest Temple
Tanzhe Temple / Tanzhe Temple is not merely a religious site; it is a foundational pillar of Beijing’s cultural identity. Founded in 307 AD during the Western Jin Dynasty, it boasts a history spanning over 1,700 years. This staggering antiquity is immortalized in the popular local proverb: "First there was Tanzhe Temple, then there was Beijing City," highlighting that the temple’s spiritual presence predates the establishment of the capital itself.
The temple’s name is derived from its natural surroundings—Tan (pool) for the Dragon Pool located behind the grounds, and Zhe for the rare Cudrania (silkworm thorn) trees that dot the hillsides. Its architectural grandeur reflects its status as a recipient of imperial patronage, particularly during the Ming and Qing dynasties. The complex is organized into a harmonious layout of halls, courtyards, and towering pagodas that follow the natural slope of the mountain.
Beyond its physical beauty, the temple is famous for its ancient flora, including the "Emperor Tree," a massive ginkgo that has stood for over a millennium. Today, Tanzhe Temple remains a serene sanctuary where history, nature, and Buddhist devotion converge, offering a profound glimpse into the ancient soul of China.
Total Ride Distance 116km . Total Elevation Gain 1805m . Estimated Timeline 7hr
Saddle-View Highlights
Tanzhe Temple:
( Beijing's Oldest Temple )
Dating back over 1,700 years (founded in 307 AD), Tanzhe Temple is the oldest recorded temple in the Beijing area. A famous proverb states: "First there was Tanzhe Temple, then there was Beijing City.”
Nestled in the Western Hills of Mentougou, its name comes from the Dragon Pool (Tan) and the surrounding Zhe trees. Historically a royal pilgrimage site, the temple showcases grand imperial architecture and famous relics, including the massive, ancient Emperor Tree. Tanzhe Temple remains a serene and vital complex, embodying centuries of Chinese Buddhist history.
Qianling Mountain North Gate
The Qianling Mountain North Gate serves as a scenic entry point to the Qianling Mountain Natural Scenic Area, located in Wangzuo Town, Fengtai District. With an altitude of approximately 400 meters, this area is deeply rooted in local religious history.
The scenic area centers on Buddhist culture and features over 30 historic caves of varying sizes, such as the Guanyin Cave, Jile Cave, and Guan Gong Cave. These ancient grottoes blend elements of Buddhism, Taoism, and folklore. The North Gate offers cyclists and hikers direct access to these cultural relics and the mountain's natural beauty, providing a refreshing escape into Beijing’s western hills.
Local Cuisine Recommendations
Magpie Restaurant (Yulong River Branch)
Located in a 100-year-old scholar's residence within Jima Village, Magpie Restaurant is a masterful blend of heritage and flavor. This restored Northern Guangxi mansion preserves its original grey tiles and wooden beams, creating a tranquil, historical atmosphere. While the courtyard offers leafy seclusion, the rooftop terrace provides stunning panoramic views of the Yulong River and limestone peaks. Breaking away from traditional farmhouse fare, Magpie serves exquisite Thai fusion cuisine. It is a refined destination where rustic architectural charm meets bold, contemporary flavors, making it one of the most atmospheric dining spots in the Yangshuo region.
Shougang Park: Industrial Transformation
Shougang Park: Industrial Transformation
Shougang Park is a striking urban regeneration project in Beijing, converting the century-old, decommissioned factory of the Shougang Group (Capital Iron and Steel Company) into a vibrant cultural and technological hub.
This site gained global fame as a key venue for the 2022 Beijing Winter Olympics, hosting the unique Big Air Shougang ski-jumping platform—a dramatic structure set against the park's iconic industrial cooling towers and blast furnaces.
DAY 4 / Imperial Grandeur & Spiritual Heritage
Experience the imperial grandeur and spiritual depth of Beijing on your final day. We begin at Prince Kung’s Mansion, the opulent former residence of the official He Shen, famous for its intricate gardens and storied past. Next, immerse yourself in the incense-filled halls of Yonghe Temple, the world’s most renowned Tibetan Buddhist site outside Tibet, followed by a serene visit to the historic Confucius Temple.
For lunch, enjoy an authentic taste of the capital at Xian Lao Man, celebrated for their legendary, handcrafted Beijing-style dumplings. This cultural finale perfectly concludes your stay before we transfer you to the airport for your flight to the next city. Safe travels as you continue your adventure across China!
Saddle-View Highlights
Yonghe Temple
The Yonghe Temple, also known as the Lama Temple, is one of the most significant Tibetan Buddhist monasteries in the world. Originally built as an imperial palace for Prince Yong in 1694, it was later converted into a lamasery during the Qing Dynasty. This breathtaking complex features five main halls adorned with exquisite frescoes and intricate carvings.
Its crown jewel is the 18-meter-tall Maitreya Buddha, carved from a single piece of sandalwood, a Guinness World Record holder.
Prince Kung’s Mansion
Prince Kung’s Mansion (Gong Wang Fu) is one of Beijing’s most exquisite and best-preserved imperial estates, offering a rare glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of the Qing Dynasty elite. Originally built in 1777, it served as the lavish residence of He Shen, a powerful official known for his immense wealth and influence. Later, it was granted to Prince Kung, a pivotal statesman in late imperial China. The mansion is a masterpiece of traditional Chinese architecture, featuring grand courtyards and a stunning 28,000-square-meter garden. Visitors can explore ornate pavilions, serene ponds, and the famous "Fu" (Fortune) stele, which is hidden in a secret cave.
Local Cuisine Recommendations
Xian Lao Man
For a true taste of local life, we visit Xian Lao Man, a celebrated institution famous for serving some of Beijing’s most authentic dumplings. The name literally translates to "fillings are always full," a promise delivered through every handcrafted piece. This restaurant is a favorite among locals for its thin-skinned, juice-filled jiaozi and an extensive menu featuring dozens of unique flavor combinations—from classic pork and fennel to savory vegetarian blends.
Beyond its legendary dumplings, Xian Lao Man offers a variety of "Old Beijing" comfort foods in a bustling, unpretentious atmosphere. It provides the perfect culinary immersion, allowing you to refuel like a local while savoring the rich, hearty flavors that have defined the capital’s food culture for generations.
Confucius Temple
The Beijing Confucius Temple is a sanctuary of wisdom and tradition, standing as the second-largest temple dedicated to the great sage in China. Established in 1302, this historic site served as the center of imperial ceremonies honoring the philosopher whose teachings shaped Chinese civilization for millennia. The complex is famous for its "Forest of Steles," housing stone tablets inscribed with the names of over 50,000 scholars who passed the grueling imperial examinations. Walking through its ancient, cypress-lined courtyards offers a serene retreat, reflecting the scholarly elegance and intellectual legacy of China’s imperial past—a perfect final stop for cultural reflection.
What's included
The following services are part of your standard package to ensure comfort and technical support throughout the 3-night journey:
Support & Logistics
Dedicated Support Van: A vehicle follows the group every step of the way to provide mechanical support, luggage transport, and a "sag wagon" option for tired riders.
Professional Driver: A dedicated driver for the support vehicle.
English-Speaking Professional Cycling Crew: Every tour is supported by a dedicated driver and expert Cycling Guides maintained at a 1:6 ratio for maximum safety and personalized attention. Our guides are multi-talented professionals: they lead the navigation, provide advanced mechanical support (Ride, Tech, Repair), and are fully trained in emergency first aid. They also act as your personal on-road content creators, capturing high-quality photos and videos throughout your journey.
Specialist Cultural Guides: Depending on the itinerary, we provide professional English-speaking cultural guides for city and heritage tours. These experts offer deep insights into local history and traditions, providing a rich, educational narrative that complements your physical adventure.
Accommodation & Meals
Luxury Accommodation: 3 nights of stay based on two guests per hotel room.
Daily Breakfast: Morning meals are included at each hotel.
Media Services
Professional Content Team: Comprehensive tour photography and video services.
DJI Drone Service: Aerial drone footage of the group cycling through the scenic landscapes.
Safety & Insurance
High-Limit Travel Insurance: Every participant is provided with 1,000,000 RMB accidental travel insurance to cover medical emergencies and accidental injuries during the tour.
Entrance Fees: Tickets for travel hotspots, cultural shows (e.g., Impression Liu Sanjie), and scenic area shuttles are included.
Not Included in the Tour
Guests should budget for the following additional costs and administrative requirements:
Lunch & Dinner: Daily meals (other than breakfast) are not included.
Bicycle Rentals
MTB, Carbon Road Bike, E-bike ( Please let us know your size and peddle requirements ahead of time. )
Documentation & Personal Travel
Visa Processing: Guests must process their Chinese visas independently.
Additional Travel Insurance: While 1M RMB accidental insurance is provided, guests must obtain their own comprehensive Travel Insurance (covering trip cancellation or illness) before submitting visa documents.
Single Occupancy: Single-room requests are subject to availability and will incur an additional fee.
Elite Support Vehicle & Logistics Infrastructure
A fleet of Professional Drivers (all highly experienced mountain drivers and active cycling enthusiasts) will man our dedicated support vans, shadowing the group every kilometer of the way.
Every vehicle is outfitted with a Full Logistics & Comfort Checklist (Items 1–19):
1.Roof Bike Carrier: Premium Thule rack system securely holding up to 6 bicycles per vehicle.
2.Side Awning Tent: Retractable vehicle canopy providing immediate outdoor shade and rest space.
3.Onboard Mini Refrigerator: Portable car fridge keeping drinks cold and fresh food chilled.
4. Cooking Kit: Complete outdoor cookware and portable gas stoves for field meal preparation.
5.Portable Power Station: High-capacity mobile power supply for all field electronics and appliances.
6. Pressurized Mobile Shower Set: Pressure-driven portable system for outdoor rinsing and bathing.
7.Detachable Changing Tent: Independent pop-up privacy tent for roadside clothes changes.
8.Camping Furniture: Foldable premium outdoor dining tables and matching camping chairs.
9.First Aid Kit: Standard comprehensive emergency medical and trauma treatment kit.
10.Cycling Energy Supplements: On-tour fuel supply including sports energy drinks and electrolyte powders.
10.Fresh Food Supply: Fresh bananas, assorted seasonal fruits, bread, and daily drinking water.
11.Beverage Reserve: Coca-Cola, craft beers, and red wine for post-ride relaxation.
12. Full Bicycle Repair Toolkit: Professional, portable bike-shop toolsets stationed in every van.
13.Certified Driver Team: Drivers possess over 10 years of experience navigating high-altitude and rugged terrain.
14. Professional Bike Tech Training: Every driver has completed formal mechanical bicycle repair courses.
15. Driver Cycling Hobby: Drivers are active cyclists, understanding rider needs intuitively.
16. Off-Road Ready Tires: Vehicles modified with rugged, off-road tires for mountain gravel and complex roads.
17. Emergency Spare Parts: Onboard reserve of common components for quick, roadside mechanical fixes.
18. Daily Camping Consumables: Full stock of cleaning supplies and daily necessities for multi-day outdoor comfort.
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation fees are calculated based on the date we receive your written cancellation request, in accordance with the following schedule:
90 days or more prior to scheduled departure: 5% of the total cost per person.
45 days or more prior to scheduled departure: 15% of the total cost per person.
15 to 44 days prior to scheduled departure: 30% of the total cost per person.
7 to 14 days prior to scheduled departure: 50% of the total cost per person.
6 days or less prior to scheduled departure: 100% of the total cost per person.
Important Notes:
Third-Party Fees: Any additional cancellation fees imposed by external service providers (including, but not limited to, banks, payment platforms, airlines, cruise lines, hotels, or railway companies) will be deducted from your final refund amount.
Traveler Changes: Changing the name of a traveler on an existing booking is considered a cancellation and is subject to the standard policy and fees outlined above.
Unused Services: Once a tour has commenced, we are unable to provide refunds for any unused services (including hotels, transportation, meals, or admission fees) resulting from late arrivals, early departures, or missed days on the tour.
Promotional Offers: Special terms and conditions may apply to promotional bookings.
Premium Fleet Rentals
Top-tier E-bikes, Road, and MTBs maintained to western standards, available with pre-loaded GPS routes for independent exploration.
MTB
"Ride China’s rugged terrain with confidence. Our premium fleet features top international brands like Specialized, Cannondale, and Trek. Professionally tuned for performance, we stock all sizes (XS to XL) to ensure the perfect fit. Experience reliable, high-end gear designed for technical single-track and scenic off-road adventures."
ROAD
"Experience pure speed on our elite fleet of full-carbon road bikes. We feature legendary brands including Colnago, Specialized, Cannondale, and Trek. We guarantee the perfect match for your geometry with all sizes available. Light, stiff, and professionally fitted to your specs for the ultimate riding experience."
E-BIKE
"Eliminate range anxiety with our expedition-ready E-bikes, capable of an impressive 170 KM on a single charge. Designed for long-distance touring, every bike comes fully equipped with integrated front and rear safety lights and spacious travel bags for your gear. Explore China further, faster, and effortlessly."
Special Experience guided bike tour
Beijing
For over 3,000 years, Beijing has been the beating heart of Chinese civilization. It is a city of staggering contrasts: immense imperial palaces—the Forbidden City—sit beside intimate hutong alleyways where the echo of bicycle bells lingers. The Great Wall snakes along the northern mountains like a sleeping dragon, while futuristic skyscrapers pierce the smog-free skies of the CBD. As you pedal through this living museum, you feel the weight of history under your wheels: emperors, revolutionaries, dreamers. Yet the city never rests. From sizzling Peking duck stalls to hidden courtyard teahouses, Beijing thrums with the vibrant pulse of a modern superpower—ancient, bold, and utterly unforgettable.
"Experience China’s breathtaking landscapes and ancient culture from the saddle. Safe, supported, and authentic adventures away from the crowds."
Yangshuo
Guilin, in China's Guangxi region, is famous for having "the finest scenery under heaven." The city is dominated by spectacular karst topography—thousands of unique limestone peaks rising steeply from the ground like ancient sentinels. The crystal-clear Li River threads through this surreal landscape, its emerald waters mirroring the jagged hills. Key attractions include the iconic Elephant Trunk Hill, a rock formation resembling a giant elephant drinking from the river, and the breathtaking cruise to Yangshuo, where every bend reveals another postcard-perfect view. Guilin provides a mystical, tranquil natural beauty often depicted in classic Chinese ink paintings—a place where mist drapes over peaks and time seems to stand still.
ChengDu
Tucked away within Liangtai Gou near Chengdu, Sunshine Lover's Valley lives up to its romantic name. Bathed in abundant sunlight even as mist lingers elsewhere, this hidden gem offers pristine forests, gurgling streams, and meadows dotted with wildflowers. Towering snow-capped peaks frame the horizon, while lush greenery embraces every winding path. The gentle sound of flowing water accompanies your every step, creating an intimate atmosphere perfect for couples seeking solitude or nature lovers craving tranquility. Whether you're sharing a quiet picnic by the creek or simply holding hands beneath the dappled sunlight, this valley feels like a secret whispered between the mountains—a place where love and nature bloom together in perfect harmony.
4 day 3 night tour
7 day 6 night tour
4 day 3 night tour
Shangri-la
6 day 5 night tour
Where snow-capped peaks pierce the heavens, Shangri-La offers an otherworldly escape into Yunnan’s wild frontier. Wander ancient cobblestone streets in Dukezong, one of Tibet’s best-preserved old towns. Hear rhythmic chants echoing within Songzanlin Monastery, the “Little Potala Palace,” where prayer wheels spin beneath golden rooftops. Lose yourself in pristine alpine valleys—Pudacuo’s crystal lakes and flower-strewn meadows. Here, ancient Tibetan myths breathe and untamed nature truly thrives. Wild yaks graze beneath glacier-carved ridges; prayer flags flutter in crisp mountain air. Whether seeking spiritual peace or high-altitude adventure, Shangri-La calls you home to a land where legend and landscape become one.
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