BusDa-Full-Day Bus Trips: Mutianyu, Summer & Old Summer Palaces

Review of the BusDa Full-Day Tour: Mutianyu, Summer & Old Summer Palaces

Exploring Beijing’s iconic landmarks in a single day can seem ambitious, but this BusDa full-day tour manages to pack in three of the city’s most celebrated sites with ease. It’s a solid choice for travelers who want a hassle-free, well-organized experience that sticks to the highlights without the pressure of planning every detail themselves.

What we love most about this tour is the balance of scenic beauty, cultural insights, and convenience. The well-preserved Mutianyu Great Wall offers impressive views and fewer crowds early in the morning, the Summer Palace provides a tranquil glimpse into imperial gardens, and the Old Summer Palace leaves a powerful impression of resilience and past grandeur. Plus, the affordable price point of just $23 per person makes it a budget-friendly way to see some of Beijing’s most famous landmarks.

One potential downside is that the itinerary can feel rushed for those who prefer more time at each site or want to explore at their own pace. However, the tour’s structure is designed for efficiency, making it ideal for travelers with limited time or those on layovers. This tour suits visitors looking for a comprehensive, guided experience that covers the essentials without the fuss of navigating public transit or dealing with language barriers.

Good To Know

• Excellent value at just $23, including entrance fees and transportation
• Expert guides who bring history and stories to life
• Comfortable transportation in an air-conditioned bus with pickup service
• Well-paced itinerary balancing sightseeing and leisure
• Flexible add-ons like cable car, toboggan, and boat rides available for extra fee
• Ideal for short stays or layovers wanting a quick, immersive experience

What’s Included and What to Expect

This tour offers a straightforward, no-hidden-fees approach—your ticket includes transportation, entry to all three sites, and a guide (if you opt for the guided version). The roundtrip air-conditioned bus ensures comfort as you hop between sites, and the hotel pickup adds a layer of convenience most travelers appreciate in Beijing.

The day’s schedule begins early, with the first stop at Mutianyu Great Wall. Known for its striking mountain vistas and relatively restored watchtowers, it’s one of the most scenic sections of the Wall. Visitors can choose to walk, take the cable car (optional, at 140 RMB), or enjoy the toboggan ride (also optional, at 140 RMB). One reviewer noted that early departure is perfect for avoiding crowds and capturing great photos, describing it as a “must-do” experience.

Next, the Summer Palace welcomes you with its expansive lakes, traditional Chinese landscaping, and imperial architecture. While the tour includes admission, some optional activities like a boat ride or visiting the Tower of Buddhist Incense are extra. Reviewers mention that the guide’s storytelling brings the site alive, with one praising Aria for her engaging narration. Around 2.5 hours is allocated here, giving enough time to wander the gardens, take photos, and soak in the scenery.

Finally, the Old Summer Palace (Yuanmingyuan) offers a poignant look at China’s imperial past, with sprawling ruins and remnants of ancient structures. It’s a quieter, more reflective stop that symbolizes resilience and cultural pride. The tour allows 1.5 hours here, which some reviewers find just enough to explore the grounds and appreciate its historical significance.

Transportation and Comfort

Traveling in an air-conditioned bus makes a big difference, especially during Beijing’s hot months. The pickup service is a major convenience, saving you from navigating busy streets or figuring out public transport. The group size is capped at 47 travelers, keeping the experience intimate enough for personalized attention but lively enough for socializing.

The inclusion of free shuttle buses within each scenic area enhances the experience by making it easier to get around once you arrive. This is especially useful at the Summer Palace and Old Summer Palace, where walking distances can be considerable.

Guides and Insights

Reviewers highlight the knowledgeable guides, with one mentioning that Aria’s storytelling made the experience memorable. Guides are there to answer questions, share historical anecdotes, and help you capture the best photos. Their presence transforms a simple sightseeing trip into a more meaningful experience.

If you choose a guided option, you’ll benefit from expert commentary that adds context to each site, helping you understand the significance of what you’re seeing—beyond just pretty views.

Flexibility and Extras

While the base price covers the essentials, there are optional add-ons to enhance your visit. Cable cars and toboggans are popular at Mutianyu, offering fun ways to ascend or descend the wall, though at an extra cost. For the Summer Palace and Old Summer Palace, boat rides are available (costs extra), which many find worth it for the unique perspective on the scenery.

This flexibility allows you to tailor the trip to your interests and energy levels, whether you want a quick overview or a more adventurous day.

Authenticity and Value

This tour excels at offering a well-rounded snapshot of Beijing’s historical grandeur without the hassle or expense of private guides or multiple separate tickets. The cost-to-value ratio is impressive, especially considering the included entrance fees and transportation. Reviewers appreciated the early start for avoiding crowds and getting better photos, highlighting an advantage over more leisurely, crowded visits.

However, some reviews note that time at each site can feel tight, especially if you want to explore in depth. If you’re a history buff or want to linger longer, this might not be the best fit. But for most travelers, especially those on a tight schedule, it hits the sweet spot.

Who This Tour Is Best For

This experience is perfect for first-time visitors wanting an overview of Beijing’s top landmarks without the stress of planning. It’s also suitable for layover travelers or those with limited time in the city. The affordable price makes it accessible for budget-conscious travelers, and the added convenience of hotel pickup saves time and effort.

If you’re traveling with family, this tour offers a balance of education and fun, especially with optional activities like toboggans and boat rides. It’s an excellent choice for anyone wanting an organized, hassle-free day that covers the major highlights.

Final Thoughts

In essence, the BusDa full-day tour offers great value and convenience, combined with knowledgeable guides and an efficient itinerary. If your goal is to see iconic Beijing sites without the fuss of individual planning, this tour is a reliable pick. It balances sightseeing, storytelling, and comfort—making it ideal for those who want a comprehensive yet manageable introduction to the city’s historical marvels.

While it may not be suited for travelers craving a slow, immersive experience or more free time at each site, it excels at giving you a meaningful, photo-worthy day out. From scenic views atop the Wall to tranquil gardens and awe-inspiring ruins, this tour packs a lot into one day, leaving you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for China’s cultural treasures.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included? Yes, if you select the option, pickup and drop-off are included, making logistics easier.

How long is the tour? The entire experience lasts approximately 10 hours, from early morning pickup to late afternoon return.

Are entrance tickets included? Yes, all site entrance fees are included in the price of $23.

Can I do the optional activities? Yes, activities like cable car, toboggan, and boat rides are available for an additional fee.

What’s the group size? The tour accommodates up to 47 travelers, ensuring a lively but manageable group.

Is there a guide? Guided tours include an English-speaking guide who provides insights and stories about each site.

Is this tour suitable for children? Yes, it’s designed for most travelers, but consider the walking involved and optional activities.

Can I cancel if my plans change? Yes, free cancellation is available if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance.

Does the tour run rain or shine? The experience requires good weather. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

What should I bring? Comfortable shoes, sun protection, and water are recommended. Optional activities may require cash for tickets.

This tour offers a compelling blend of affordability, flexibility, and cultural highlights, making it a smart choice for anyone eager to experience Beijing’s most famous sights without the fuss.