As the sun rises over the ancient city, the shadows of Beijing’s Old Hutongs whisper tales of centuries past. A labyrinth of narrow alleyways and traditional courtyard residences, these hutongs hold secrets waiting to be unveiled.
Imagine strolling through these historic streets, guided by the melodic voice of Alec Ash, painting vivid pictures of bygone eras. But what hidden gems lie within these timeworn lanes?
Join the exploration, and discover the untold stories that echo through the brick walls, beckoning you to uncover more.
- Good To Know
- Tour Overview
- Tour Highlights
- Inclusions and Exclusions
- Meeting Point Details
- Important Tour Information
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Are There Any Recommended Times of Day to Take the Self-Guided Audio Tour of Beijings Old Hutongs?
- Are There Any Specific Landmarks or Points of Interest Along the Route That Are Not Mentioned in the Tour Highlights?
- Can the Self-Guided Audio Tour of Beijings Old Hutongs Be Customized or Personalized in Any Way?
- Is There a Recommended Duration for Spending at Each Stop Along the Tour Route?
- Are There Any Local Customs or Etiquette Tips to Keep in Mind While Exploring the Hutongs on the Self-Guided Tour?
- The Sum Up
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Good To Know

- Immerse in Beijing’s hutongs with a self-guided audio tour
- Explore historical insights and cultural gems at your own pace
- Witness the fusion of old-world charm and modern life
- Engage with locals, respect traditions, and plan wisely for an enriching experience
Tour Overview

Set out on a captivating journey through Beijing’s old hutongs with a self-guided audio tour that reveals the rich history and cultural significance of these narrow alleyways.
Exploration tips include wearing comfortable shoes for the 3km walk from the Drum Tower to the Lama Temple, where visitors can enjoy the historical insights provided by the narration of Alec Ash.
Travelers have complete control over their pace, with unlimited use of the tour allowing for a deeper understanding of this ancient area.
For just $4.99 per person, you can access a lifetime of English tour content through the VoiceMap app, ensuring an informative and engaging experience.
Don’t forget to bring headphones and a charged smartphone to make the most of this enriching historical adventure.
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Tour Highlights

Uncover fascinating historical insights and cultural gems as you explore the vibrant hutongs of Beijing on this self-guided audio tour. Enjoy the rich history and traditions of Beijing as you walk through the narrow alleyways lined with traditional courtyard homes.
Listen to the captivating narration by Alec Ash, providing you with valuable context and stories about the area. With complete control over your pace, you can explore the depths of Beijing’s past at your leisure.
This tour offers a unique opportunity for historic exploration, allowing you to witness the fusion of old-world charm and modern life in the heart of the city. Don’t miss the chance to explore culture in one of Beijing’s most iconic neighborhoods.
Inclusions and Exclusions

Included in the self-guided audio tour of Beijing’s Old Hutongs by VoiceMap are lifetime access to the English tour, the VoiceMap app for Android and iOS, and offline access to audio, maps, and geodata. Exclusions such as museum tickets, transportation, food, and drink are not covered.
- Exploration Tips:
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking.
- Engage with locals to learn more about the area.
- Take your time to soak in the atmosphere.
- Visit during off-peak hours for a more serene experience.
- Respect local customs and traditions.
Budget Considerations:
- Museum tickets aren’t included.
- Transportation costs aren’t covered.
- Food and drink expenses are the responsibility of the visitor.
- Consider bringing your water and snacks to save money.
- Plan your tour schedule to minimize additional spending.
Meeting Point Details
The meeting point for the self-guided audio tour of Beijing’s Old Hutongs by VoiceMap is located on the south side of the Drum Tower, with detailed directions provided for subway and taxi users.
| Transportation | Directions |
|---|---|
| Subway | Take Line 2 or Line 8 to Guloudajie Station, leave from Exit B, walk south for 10 minutes to reach the Drum Tower. |
| Taxi | Ask the driver to take you to the south side of the Drum Tower (Gulou) in the Dongcheng District. |
Arriving at the Drum Tower, visitors will find themselves in the midst of the vibrant energy of Beijing’s historic heart, ready to embark on a journey through the winding hutongs rich in history and culture.
More Great Tours NearbyImportant Tour Information
Arriving at the Drum Tower marks the beginning of an immersive experience through Beijing’s Old Hutongs with VoiceMap, where visitors can uncover the hidden stories and vibrant culture of the city’s historic heart.
- Tour Logistics
- Bring: Headphones, Charged Smartphone
- Download: VoiceMap app
- Tour specifics: Set route with turn-by-turn directions, English only
- Pricing: From $4.99 per person
- Gift option available
For a seamless exploration of the hutongs, visitors should come prepared with their headphones, ensuring a fully immersive experience. The VoiceMap app is essential for accessing the tour, providing detailed directions in English. With clear pricing starting at $4.99 per person, this self-guided audio tour offers a cost-effective means to explore Beijing’s cultural tapestry.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are There Any Recommended Times of Day to Take the Self-Guided Audio Tour of Beijings Old Hutongs?
For the self-guided audio tour of Beijings old Hutongs, the best times are early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy the peaceful ambiance. Visitors must try local street food.
Are There Any Specific Landmarks or Points of Interest Along the Route That Are Not Mentioned in the Tour Highlights?
Hidden gems and off the beaten path landmarks like secluded courtyards and ancestral homes enrich the Beijings Old Hutongs audio tour. These unique spots offer a glimpse into Beijing’s rich history and cultural heritage beyond the main highlights.
Can the Self-Guided Audio Tour of Beijings Old Hutongs Be Customized or Personalized in Any Way?
When exploring Beijings Old Hutongs with the self-guided audio tour, visitors can enjoy customized experiences through personalized narration, route adjustments, and the flexibility to pause or replay content, enhancing their journey through the historic heart of Beijing.
Is There a Recommended Duration for Spending at Each Stop Along the Tour Route?
When exploring Beijings Old Hutongs on a self-guided tour, visitors can adjust their pace to enjoy each stop fully. While there isn’t a set time for each location, an ideal visit duration is around 10-15 minutes per stop.
Are There Any Local Customs or Etiquette Tips to Keep in Mind While Exploring the Hutongs on the Self-Guided Tour?
When exploring the hutongs on the self-guided tour, visitors should be mindful of local customs and etiquette tips. Respect privacy, avoid loud noises, ask permission before taking photos, and remove shoes when entering homes to show courtesy and appreciation.
The Sum Up
Explore the hidden gems of Beijing’s old hutongs on this self-guided audio tour.
With fascinating narration by Alec Ash, visitors can explore the rich history and culture of this ancient city at their own pace.
From the bustling Drum Tower to the serene Lama Temple, this immersive experience offers a unique way to uncover the secrets of Northern China’s capital.
Don’t miss out on this unforgettable journey through Beijing’s historic heart.
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