
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
3 days
/ 2 nights
Maximum Group Size
/ 12
Activity Level
/ 2 Starts
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 3
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.


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.
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."
What's included
The following services are part of your standard package to ensure comfort and technical support throughout the 2-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.
Professional Cycling Guide: One expert guide for every six guests (1:6 ratio) to ensure safety and group management.
Full Tour Concierge: One full-time concierge to manage hotel check-ins, dining logistics, and on-ground arrangements.
Accommodation & Meals
Luxury Accommodation: 2 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.
Not Included in the Tour
Guests should budget for the following additional costs and administrative requirements:
Bicycle Rentals
Dining & Personal Activities
Lunch & Dinner: Daily meals (other than breakfast) are not included.
Entrance Fees: Tickets for travel hotspots, cultural shows (e.g., Impression Liu Sanjie), and scenic area shuttles are extra.
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.


Special Experience guided bike tour


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.
"Experience China’s breathtaking landscapes and ancient culture from the saddle. Safe, supported, and authentic adventures away from the crowds."




Guilin / 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. The crystal-clear Li River threads through this landscape. Key attractions include the iconic Elephant Trunk Hill and the breathtaking cruise to Yangshuo. Guilin provides a mystical, tranquil natural beauty often depicted in classic Chinese art.
ChengDu
A romantic hidden gem within Liangtai Gou, Sunshine Lover's Valley lives up to its name with abundant sunlight, pristine forests, and gurgling streams. Surrounded by snow-capped peaks and lush greenery, it’s a picturesque spot for couples and nature lovers.
3 day 2 night tour
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