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Beijing’s Central Axis, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2024, is a 7.8-kilometer-long imperial route connecting some of the city’s most significant landmarks, including the Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square, and the Temple of Heaven. This WildBeijing experience showcases the essence of imperial Beijing in just half a day. Along the way, discover the ancient Chinese concept of the “Dragon Vein”, a mystical energy believed to flow through the city’s central axis, and learn about the intricate rituals of the imperial court.
The central axis exploration begins at the Bell and Drum Towers. These majestic structures served as crucial timekeepers and city management tools during the Ming and Qing dynasties. Their booming sounds, now a distant memory, once synchronized the rhythm of Beijing, dictating the opening and closing of gates and markets.
Wanning Bridge was once a vital transportation link for both land and water traffic, connecting north and south. Its sturdy construction and convenient location continue to make it an important thoroughfare for pedestrians and vehicles even today. Strolling along the bridge, admire the serene beauty of Shichahai, with goose-shaped boats gliding in summer, replaced by traditional ice sleds in winter.
Dating back to the Tang Dynasty, this 1300-year-old temple boasts a rich history. Its vibrant vermilion doors, adorned with antique lion-head handles, stand in stark contrast to the gray walls and tiles, hinting at the temple’s purpose – to appease the Fire God and protect the surrounding area. Inside, explore the well-preserved main building, the Long En Temple, and the main hall dedicated to the south fire Dehong star, the Fire God.
Ascend to the summit of Jingshan Park, a verdant oasis overlooking the Forbidden City, and let breathtaking views of Beijing unfold. Explore winding paths adorned with intricate pavilions, remnants of its imperial past, now a haven for tranquil exploration. Conclude the experience in the park’s captivating blend of history and nature, a symphony of serenity amidst the bustling city.
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We’re on the ground with you
Our team of advisors will design every detail of the trip with you through close consultation, then orchestrate your entire journey while on the ground. We’re in the same time zone as you, so we can fulfill requests and handle issues without a hitch. With over 40 staff in Beijing and an expansive network of operational partners across the country, we have the manpower to ensure your journey is safe, reliable and comfortable from beginning to end.
Your trip, your way
Flexibility is our highest-ranking compliment. We pull off journeys for pioneers with a 6-hour layover to Hollywood’s elite, and everywhere in between. Our team regularly pulls off unprecedented logistical feats; nearly any time frame or budget is within our realm. No matter how you wish to experience China, we are here to bring that dream to life.
We embody passion
WildChina guides are carefully handpicked for their knowledge and charisma, then meticulously trained to maintain our exceptional service standards. They are expert storytellers and passionate natives of the regions where they guide, having the perfect combination of local insights and service know-how to bring you seamless once-in-a- lifetime moments all across China.
The little things, the big picture
Supporting inspired local economies allows you to experience the soul of the destination, while also protecting and cultivating China’s artisanal culture. From watching artisans hand make shoes in Yunnan, to picking organic vegetables for dinner on a local farm in Fujian, our tours are designed to showcase and protect China’s heritage, both natural and human.
