Meet your tour guide in the lobby of your Beijing downtown hotel, then travel by private car to the Houhai lake area to start today's adventure! Stroll along the Shichahai Lake, a sense of its history inevitably hits you. Composed of three man-made lakes, Qianhai ("Front Sea" Lake), Houhai ("Rear Sea" Lake) and the lesser-known Xihai ("West Sea" Lake) once formed part of a system of waterways that fed into the Imperial Capital. Lean many stories while walking, which will further enhance your understanding of Chinese culture. Enjoy some folk activities around, such as fishing, swimming, boating, rowing, playing chess, dancing and singing. Feel free to ask questions if you have. 

Next, explore the Yandaixiejie street which is the oldest business street in Beijing with a history of about 800 years. The 232m Yandaixie Street today is lined with all kinds of shops, bars, cafes, and restaurants where you can buy local souvenirs, witness traditional Chinese handcrafts, and grab a drink.

Move on to the magnificent Drum and Bell Towers which functioned as important timepieces of the Imperial Capital from as early as the 12th century. Climb up to the Drum Tower, watch an interesting drum beaten performance, enjoy nice views over the Beijing's traditional Hutong neighborhood.