BusDa-Private Day Tours: Forbidden City & Mutianyu Great Wall

Exploring Beijing’s most iconic landmarks in a single day can be daunting, but this private tour by BusDa makes it surprisingly seamless. Designed for travelers who want a well-organized, authentic, and enjoyable experience, this tour hits two major highlights: the majestic Forbidden City and the breathtaking Mutianyu Great Wall. With a knowledgeable guide, comfortable transportation, and included entrance tickets, it offers a balanced mix of culture, history, and natural beauty—all at an accessible price.

What we love about this tour is the flexible, personalized approach — especially the thoughtful guides, the scenic drive, and the convenience of having everything arranged in advance. The scenic views of the Great Wall are truly unforgettable, and walking through the Forbidden City reveals a glimpse into China’s imperial past. However, keep in mind that the tour is quite full-day, which may be tiring if you prefer a more leisurely pace. It’s best suited for those who want a comprehensive, hassle-free introduction to Beijing’s top sights without breaking the bank.

Good To Know

• Affordable Price: At just $20 per person, it provides great value, especially with tickets included.
• Private and Flexible: The tour is exclusive to your group, with options for pickup and drop-off.
• Expert Guides: Well-reviewed guides like Yuly and Jackie enhance the experience with insightful commentary and friendly service.
• Scenic and Cultural Highlights: You get to explore the largest ancient palace complex in China and one of the most beautiful sections of the Great Wall.
• Convenient Logistics: Roundtrip transportation and hotel pickup make the day smooth.
• Additional costs: Optional extras like cable cars and toboggans are available at additional rates if you wish to enhance your visit.

A Deep Dive into the Experience

Starting at the Forbidden City: An Imperial Masterpiece

The tour kicks off with a visit to The Palace Museum, more famously known as the Forbidden City. As the most intact imperial palace in China, it’s a sprawling complex of over 9,000 rooms. You’ll get about 3 hours here, which is enough time to soak in the grandeur without feeling rushed. Your ticket is booked in advance (simply send your passport details), so no lines or hassle—saving time and frustration.

Travelers often comment on how well-organized the process is. One reviewer mentioned, “communication was very easy,” highlighting how smooth the booking and entry are. The guided walk allows you to appreciate the intricate architecture, the vast courtyards, and the stories behind the imperial halls. While the size of the site might seem overwhelming, your guide will point out highlights and share interesting facts, making the experience more engaging.

Journey to the Great Wall: Scenic Drive and Stunning Views

After the Forbidden City, you’ll hop on a coach for about 1.5 hours toward Mutianyu, a section of the Wall renowned for its scenic surroundings and fewer crowds. The drive itself is an opportunity to relax and enjoy the changing scenery—mountains, forests, and scenic landscapes, which are described as some of the most beautiful parts of the Wall.

Once you arrive, the area is surrounded by mountains, and the views are truly spectacular. The site features 20 watchtowers that you can explore at your own pace, choosing between visiting the east or west line, or both. This flexibility is appreciated, especially if you want to maximize your photo opportunities or enjoy some quiet time away from the crowds. One reviewer pointed out that “the place is taken as the most beautiful site of the Great Wall at home and abroad,” emphasizing its visual appeal.

The Wall Experience: Walk, Cable Car, or Toboggan

The highlight here is walking along the ancient stones, soaking in panoramic vistas, and imagining what life was like when it was built as a defensive barrier. For those wanting a little extra, optional cable cars and toboggans are available at additional costs (140 RMB each). Several guests mentioned the convenience of having transportation included, making visiting the Wall far easier than organizing it independently.

Reviewers like “Jackie was a wonderful tour guide,” noting his helpfulness navigating the site and providing tips to save money. The overall impression is that the guided experience enriches the visit, whether it’s learning about the Wall’s history or finding good spots for photos.

End of Day: Comfortable, Personal, and Well-Organized

The tour ends with drop-off back at your hotel or designated location, completing a full day of sightseeing. The private nature of the tour allows for a relaxed pace, with guides often going out of their way to ensure guests are comfortable and well-informed. The reviews highlight how guides like Yuly and Jackie made the experience both fun and educational, with many guests praising their friendly, professional attitude.

Practical Details and Value

At $20 per person, this tour is extraordinary value, especially considering the entrance tickets are included. For travelers on a budget or those who prefer a packaged experience, it’s hard to beat. The small group size and private arrangement mean you won’t be jostling for space or stuck with strangers, and the flexible pickup options save you time.

Transportation is air-conditioned, and the roundtrip service within Beijing makes logistics simple. The tour’s duration is around 10 hours, so it’s a full day but well worth the effort if you’re eager to see top sights without the hassle of planning each step yourself.

One thing to note: optional extras like cable cars and toboggans cost extra, but they’re not obligatory. Many reviews mention that the overall experience is so good that these small costs are worth it for added convenience or fun.

Guides Who Know Their Stuff

Reviewers consistently praise the guides for their knowledge, friendliness, and ability to communicate fluently in English. Yuly, Jackie, and Liz have all received glowing compliments for their helpfulness and humor. Knowing your guide is motivated to make the day enjoyable and informative truly enhances the experience.

Timing and Crowd Avoidance

The tour manages to balance seeing the sights with avoiding the busiest times, thanks to pre-booked tickets and personalized itineraries. The schedule allows plenty of time at each site without feeling rushed, though expect a busy, activity-packed day.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers who want a cost-effective, all-in-one Beijing tour without the stress of organizing transport or tickets. It suits families, couples, or solo travelers interested in a comprehensive, guided day of sightseeing. If you’re on a layover in Beijing or short on time but still want to see the city’s highlights, this is an excellent choice.

It’s also great if you prefer to explore with a knowledgeable local guide who can provide insights, help navigate crowds, and make the day more personal. The flexible itinerary makes it suitable for those who want to enjoy the view and learn about China’s imperial past at their own pace.

The Sum Up

This private tour by BusDa offers a remarkably good value, combining two of Beijing’s most iconic sites into one smooth, well-organized day. For just $20, you get included entrance tickets, comfortable transportation, and guides praised for their friendliness and expertise. It’s an excellent choice for anyone seeking an authentic, insightful, and hassle-free introduction to Beijing’s history and scenery.

If you’re after a budget-friendly, private experience with a balance of culture and natural beauty, this tour checks all the boxes. It’s especially suitable for those who appreciate flexible, guided adventures that make exploring an unfamiliar city both easy and memorable.

While the day can be long, the stunning views and rich stories make it worthwhile. Just remember to wear comfortable shoes and be ready for a full day of discovery—you’ll leave with plenty of photos, stories, and a deeper appreciation for China’s heritage.

FAQ

What is included in the tour price?
The $20 fee covers entrance tickets to both the Forbidden City and Mutianyu Great Wall, private tour service, hotel pickup and drop-off (if selected), and transportation by air-conditioned bus.

Can I customize the visit to the Great Wall?
Yes, you have the choice to visit either the east or west line at Mutianyu, or both, depending on your preference and energy level.

Are guides fluent in English?
Yes, the guides are praised for their fluent English and friendly assistance, making navigation and explanation easy to follow.

What optional extras are available?
Cable cars and toboggans are available at additional costs (around 140 RMB each). These are not included in the base price but can enhance the experience if desired.

How long is the total tour?
The tour lasts approximately 10 hours, including travel time between sites, sightseeing, and transfers.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, it’s ideal for families, couples, or solo travelers looking for a comprehensive and guided experience that balances sightseeing with comfort.

Do I need to book tickets in advance?
Yes, your guide will book the Forbidden City tickets in advance once you provide your passport details, ensuring a smooth entry process.

This private tour combines affordability, convenience, and expert guidance to give you a memorable introduction to Beijing’s finest sights. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or just seeking a hassle-free way to see the city, it’s a fantastic choice to make your trip effortless and enjoyable.