BeijingExperience of Qing Dynasty Costumes and Makeup

Traveling to Beijing and longing to step back into its imperial past? This tour offers a unique chance to wear authentic Qing Dynasty costumes, get professionally styled, and stroll around one of China’s most iconic landmarks — the Forbidden City. What makes this experience special is how accessible and personalized it is, making it perfect for travelers seeking culture with a playful twist.

From a wide selection of nearly 100 costumes to multilingual support, this tour emphasizes convenience and fun. We love the opportunity to transform into an emperor, empress, guard, or noble lady, and the chance to snap photos in historic settings. One thing to keep in mind is that you’ll need to visit the costume shop on your own, which might be a minor hurdle if you’re unfamiliar with the area. Still, the provided guidance makes it straightforward. Perfect for history buffs, costume enthusiasts, or those wanting a memorable souvenir photo session, this experience balances entertainment with cultural appreciation.

Good To Know

• Extensive Costume Selection: Nearly 100 different Qing Dynasty costumes available for a full day of use, offering plenty of variety.
• Professional Styling: About an hour of expert makeup and hair styling ensures you look the part.
• Multilingual Support: Online translation services help overcome language barriers, making the experience accessible to international visitors.
• Flexible and Budget-Friendly: The experience helps keep costs down while delivering an authentic feel.
• Self-Guided Pickup: You’ll need to visit the costume shop yourself, but guidance is provided.
• Ideal for All Ages: Suitable for most adults, though not recommended for children under 2 or individuals over 220 lbs.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Qing Dynasty Costume Experience

Getting Started: Finding the Costume Shop

The journey begins with locating the costume shop, which is outside the main tour area. While the tour provider offers guidance, you must make your way there independently. Reviewers mention that the instructions are clear and easy to follow, especially with the online support offered. Once you arrive, the staff assists you in selecting a costume that fits your size and preferences from a vast collection.

Many travelers appreciated the convenience of not needing to pre-book costumes, as the shop holds a wide variety. If you want a particular look—say, an empress or a guard—you can contact the team in advance to book the styling session, ensuring you get the look you’re aiming for. The staff are described as friendly and accommodating, making the whole process smooth.

The Transformation: Makeup and Hair Styling

The professional makeup and styling team take approximately an hour to prepare you. Expect skilled application of traditional Qing Dynasty makeup, which can include intricate facial details and hair accessories. The stylists are well-versed in their craft, with some reviewers noting that their attention to detail significantly enhances the authenticity of your look.

The styling experience isn’t just about makeup; hair accessories and traditional headpieces are carefully fitted, completing the transformation. Several visitors mention how they felt like real Qing officials or courtiers as they watched their reflection come together. It’s an engaging process that highlights the artistry involved in traditional Chinese costume styling.

Walking Through the Forbidden City in Costume

Once dressed and styled, you’re free to explore the Forbidden City or other designated areas. The costumes are comfortable enough for walking, and the full-day use means you can take your time. Many reviewers loved the chance to wander around historic sites dressed in period attire, capturing stunning photos that blend history and fantasy.

Some guests shared their excitement about how the costumes and makeup changed their overall experience, turning a typical sightseeing day into a memorable photo adventure. A couple of reviews noted that the costumes are well-made and durable, allowing for comfortable movement and posing.

More Great Tours Nearby

Returning the Costumes and Final Tips

The day concludes by returning the costumes and accessories before 6 PM. It’s recommended to plan your visit so you have ample time to enjoy your photo session and sightseeing without feeling rushed. Reviewers suggest arriving early in the day to maximize your time, especially if you want to revisit certain spots or take multiple photos.

Value and Pricing Considerations

This experience is valued not just for the costume and makeup but also for the culture and the opportunity to walk around one of China’s most famous sites dressed as Qing Dynasty royalty or guards. Many find the cost a reasonable investment for the full-day access, professional styling, and memorable photos.

While some might consider the price slightly higher than simple costume rentals, the inclusion of expert makeup and the flexibility of full-day use deliver a strong sense of value. It’s a unique way to connect with Beijing’s imperial past without the crowds and hustle of traditional tours.

Who Would Love This Experience?

This tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy hands-on, immersive activities. History buffs will appreciate the authenticity of the costumes and the opportunity to learn about Qing Dynasty fashion. Photographers and social media fans will love the chance to capture striking images in historic attire. It also works well for couples, families, or solo explorers wanting a fun, cultural souvenir.

If you’re comfortable navigating a city on your own to find the pickup point, and you want a playful, memorable experience that blends history with personal style, this tour is a fantastic choice. Just keep in mind it’s not ideal for very young children or those with mobility limitations over 220 lbs.

The Sum Up

Dressing up in Qing Dynasty costumes and getting styled by professional makeup artists offers a rare combination of cultural insight and fun. This experience turns a typical sightseeing day into an engaging, photo-worthy adventure that allows you to step into history. The flexibility to choose from numerous costumes, combined with multilingual support and a knowledgeable stylist team, makes it accessible and enjoyable.

For those who love authentic experiences with a bit of theatrical flair, this tour provides an affordable and memorable way to connect with Beijing’s imperial past. It’s perfect for history enthusiasts, costume lovers, and anyone wanting to create unique travel memories. You’ll leave not only with stunning photos but also a deeper appreciation for Qing Dynasty aesthetics and the craftsmanship behind traditional Chinese costumes.

FAQs

Do I need to book the costume and makeup session in advance?
You can contact the team to book a specific costume style ahead of time, but generally, there’s plenty of availability on the day. The online support makes it easy to coordinate your visit.

Where is the costume shop located?
Travelers will need to visit the costume shop independently. The tour provider offers guidance to help you find it, ensuring a smooth start to your experience.

How long will the makeup and styling take?
The professional team spends about one hour preparing your makeup, hair accessories, and costume fittings. This ensures a detailed and authentic look.

Can I wear the costume all day?
Yes, you have full-day access to the costume and accessories, allowing for relaxed sightseeing and photo sessions without rush.

Is this experience suitable for children?
It’s generally designed for adults, and not recommended for children under 2 or individuals over 220 lbs due to costume sizing and comfort considerations.

What should I do if I want to take photos?
Once dressed, you’re free to explore and take photos anywhere within the allowed area, including the Forbidden City. Many reviewers recommend arriving early to maximize photo opportunities.

This experience offers a playful yet meaningful way to engage with Beijing’s history, blending costume artistry with sightseeing. Whether you’re a history lover or just looking for a fun day out, dressing as Qing Dynasty royalty or guards will surely leave you with unforgettable memories and fantastic photos.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby