Three to try: Beijing tours with a distinct difference

Get out, get about 

From scooting around to walking in the footsteps of the past, these tours around Beijing are just another great way to see this incredible city.

Republican Ladies and the Women of Dashilar

In honour of International Women’s Day, Beijing Postcards’ newest exhibition and walking tour studies the role of women in Chinese society. Taking place every Saturday throughout March, explore Old Beijing and the streets of Dashilar as Beijing Postcards examines the radical changes that occurred in the latter part of the Qing dynasty to the early days of the republic, from the depiction of Chinese women in media, to foot binding, equal rights and education.

 Visit bjpostcards.com to book. Tours Mar 9-30 (every Sat), 2-4.30pm. 300RMB.

Electric Bicycle Tours

The lads at B Electric have curated two tours that will save you from pounding the pavements of the massive sprawl that is Beijing. One takes you on a trip down the capital city’s much-storied past into the hutongs and ancient structures such as the Drum & Bell Tower and The Forbidden City. The Modern Beijing route, on the other hand, allows you to gawk at the city’s modern architectural marvels such as the CBD, CCTV Tower and Parkview Green. All on the comfort of a motorised scooter. 

 Visit belectricbeijing.com to book. Tours every Wed and Sun, 1-4pm. 300RMB. Private tours available.

Midnight in Peking

This March, author Paul French will be leading this acclaimed tour of the Beijing murder and mystery. During the tour, guests will be treated to snacks and drinks, a post-walk exhibition of materials relating to the case, a ‘One-Eyed Dragon’ cocktail (recreated from an authentic 1930’s recipe) and a book-signing. French will lead the tours on Saturday 30 and Sunday 31 March which include a four-course dinner at NUO Hotel Beijing (1,588RMB) and just the walk on Tuesday 2 April (588RMB).

 Visit bespoketravelcompany.com to book tickets and learn more information on their monthly public tours.

For more things to do in this beautiful city, hit 'Read more' below. 

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