Beijing: Exclusive Tai Chi On The Great Wall (Train Trip)

Traveling to China and skipping the Great Wall would be like going to Paris and missing the Eiffel Tower—just not something most travelers would want to do. But this tour offers a different way to experience one of the world’s most iconic sights. Instead of the usual crowds and touristy spots, you get a thoughtfully curated day that combines cultural activity, history, and scenic beauty, all wrapped up in a comfortable small-group setting.

What makes this trip stand out? We love the exclusive Tai Chi session on the Great Wall, a rare experience that’s not often available to visitors. We also appreciate the seamless round-trip bullet train transfer, which makes the journey both quick and comfortable. Lastly, the visit to Laolongtou, where the Wall meets the sea, provides stunning views and a sense of the Wall’s vast scale.

One possible consideration? The entire day is quite packed, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with full days of sightseeing and moving between locations. If you prefer a more relaxed pace or are wary of early mornings, this might feel a bit intense.

This tour appeals most to travelers who want an authentic, engaging experience that combines physical activity, history, and breathtaking scenery. It’s also ideal for those who value small-group tours and knowledgeable guides to enrich their understanding.

Good To Know

• Unique Tai Chi experience on the Great Wall, rarely offered in standard tours.
• Fast, comfortable transportation via bullet train, saving time and energy.
• Visit Laolongtou (Old Dragons Head), where the Wall meets the sea, for memorable coastal views.
• Explore Shanhaiguan Ancient City, with its historical significance as the First Pass Under Heaven.
• Small group size (max 12) ensures a more personal experience.
• Includes local dumpling lunch with options for dietary needs.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Starting Point and Transportation

Your day begins with a hotel pickup within Beijing’s 5th Ring Road, making the start hassle-free. The guide contacts you the evening before, ensuring you’re well-informed about the exact time and vehicle details. Once aboard, you’ll enjoy about 2 hours on a bullet train—a speedy and comfortable ride that whisks you from Beijing to Qinhuangdao/Shanhaiguan.

Traveling by high-speed train is a major plus, especially since it allows you to maximize your sightseeing time. The train is modern, typically punctual, and offers a chance to glimpse the Chinese countryside flashing by. As one reviewer noted, “The train was smooth, clean, and way better than I expected for a day trip.”

Shanhaiguan Ancient City and Laolongtou

Once off the train, your local guide and vehicle will be waiting to take you to Shanhaiguan Ancient City. Known as the “First Pass Under Heaven,” this fortress was once a critical military gateway and now offers a well-preserved glimpse into China’s defensive history. You’ll have about an hour to wander, soak in the walls, and learn about its strategic importance.

Next, your group heads to Laolongtou (Old Dragons Head), a spectacular coastal location where the Great Wall curves to meet the sea. The views here are dramatic—waves crashing against the ancient stones and the sight of the wall stretching into the horizon. This spot is not only photogenic but also gives a real sense of the Wall’s impressive scale.

The Highlight: Tai Chi on the Great Wall

The standout moment? An exclusive, scheduled Tai Chi session right on the Great Wall, guided by an instructor. This isn’t a casual demonstration; it’s a thoughtfully arranged activity that lets you practice traditional Chinese martial arts amid breathtaking scenery. It’s a rare opportunity because site regulations often limit such activities, making this a highlight for cultural enthusiasts.

Travelers have shared that “the Tai Chi instructor was engaging and patient,” and “doing Tai Chi with the Wall and sea behind us was a surreal experience.” Photographers will love the chance to capture the scene—movement against the ancient stones with the ocean as a backdrop.

More Great Tours Nearby

Lunch and Local Flavors

Post-exercise, the tour includes a local dumpling lunch. The restaurant offers meat, vegetarian, or seafood options, and travelers can advise dietary preferences in advance. The dumplings are a classic regional delicacy, and many find the meal both hearty and authentic, providing a satisfying break before more sightseeing.

Exploring the Coastal and Cultural Sites

After lunch, you’ll visit the Old Dragon’s Head, where you can walk along the coast, marvel at the view, and appreciate the Wall’s rugged beauty. The tour includes a guided visit to the scenic area, lasting about 40 minutes, giving you a chance to soak in the natural scenery and historical context.

Next, your guide will take you to Shanhaiguan’s Old City, where you’ll learn about its strategic role in Chinese history. The guided tour lasts about an hour, during which your guide’s knowledge helps bring the site to life—something many reviewers mentioned as a key highlight.

Return Journey to Beijing

After a full day of exploration, you’ll board the 2.5-hour high-speed train back to Beijing, arriving within the city’s 5th Ring Road. The return trip offers a chance to relax and reflect on the day’s adventures, and the guide will coordinate your drop-off at your hotel or residence.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for history buffs, culture lovers, and outdoor enthusiasts wanting more than a typical sightseeing day. The small-group format ensures personalized attention, and the inclusion of an experienced guide helps deepen your understanding of the sites.

Travelers seeking a unique, active experience—like practicing Tai Chi on the Great Wall—will find this especially rewarding. It also suits those who appreciate comfort and efficiency, thanks to the high-speed train transfer.

On the flip side, if you prefer a more relaxed pace or have mobility restrictions, this tour might feel a bit rushed. It’s best suited for those comfortable with a full day of sightseeing and physical activity.

Practical Details and Tips

• Duration: 11 hours, start early to make the most of it.
• Group Size: Max 12, fostering a more intimate experience.
• Transport: Bullet train round-trip, comfortable and fast.
• Lunch: Included, with flexible options—don’t forget to specify dietary needs.
• Guides: Bilingual in English and Chinese, knowledgeable about history, culture, and local tips.
• Clothing: Wear comfortable shoes; weather may vary, so bring layers.
• What to Bring: Passport or ID, camera, personal water bottle, and sun protection if needed.
• Weather Considerations: Tour may be rescheduled or adjusted in extreme weather for safety.

The Sum Up

This tour offers a highly curated way to experience the Great Wall beyond the usual tourist spots. With its rare Tai Chi session, scenic coastal views, and historical insights, it’s designed for travelers who crave meaningful, engaging adventures. The high-speed train makes the journey efficient, while the small-group format ensures personal attention and flexibility.

It’s especially suited for those who want a blend of physical activity, culture, and scenic beauty—all wrapped into one memorable day. The knowledgeable guides and exclusive activities add real value, making this a standout option for your Beijing itinerary.

If you’re eager to combine history, culture, and a dash of the unusual, this trip ticks all those boxes. Prepare yourself for a full day of discovery, with plenty of photo opportunities and stories to share.

FAQ

Is transportation included? Yes, the tour provides round-trip bullet train tickets from Beijing to Qinhuangdao/Shanhaiguan, plus local transfers to the sites.

What is the group size? The tour is limited to a maximum of 12 participants, ensuring a more personalized experience.

What is the duration of the tour? The entire day lasts about 11 hours, including travel, sightseeing, meals, and activities.

Is lunch provided? Yes, a local dumpling lunch is included, with options for meat, seafood, or vegetarian dishes. Dietary needs should be advised in advance.

Are guides bilingual? Guides speak both English and Chinese, helping non-Chinese speakers better understand the sites.

Can I customize my dietary requirements? Yes, you can specify dietary preferences for the lunch.

Is the Tai Chi session suitable for everyone? The session is scheduled and guided—best for those comfortable with gentle physical activity; very young children or those with mobility issues might find it challenging.

Are there any restrictions? Tour participants should be able to handle a full day of walking and standing. The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users or people over 80.

What should I bring? Bring your passport or ID, sun protection, comfortable shoes, and a camera.

What happens in extreme weather? The tour may be rescheduled or adjusted for safety; refunds are available if you choose not to proceed.

In summary, this tour provides an engaging, authentic way to experience the Great Wall, blending physical activity, history, and breathtaking scenery—all in a manageable, small-group setting. It’s a wonderful choice for those looking to add a meaningful, active element to their Beijing trip while exploring one of China’s most iconic landmarks.

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