20-Hour Layover in Beijing: Explore the Great Wall, Forbidden City, Temple of Heaven, Qianmen Street, Shichahai Lake & More
For those with a 20-hour layover in Beijing, you have ample time to explore a mix of historical landmarks and local attractions. From the Mutianyu Great Wall to the Forbidden City, Temple of Heaven, and more, this itinerary ensures you’ll experience Beijing’s best.
For those with shorter layovers, check out our 8-hour, 12-hour, 14-hour, 15-hour, 16-hour, 17-hour, 18-hour, and 19-hour guides.
1. Clearing Customs at Beijing Airport (1 Hour)
After arriving at Beijing Capital International Airport, allocate 1 hour for clearing customs.
2. Travel to Mutianyu Great Wall (1 Hour)
Once through customs, it’s a 1-hour drive to the Mutianyu Great Wall, one of Beijing’s most beautiful and accessible sections of the Wall.
3. Explore Mutianyu Great Wall (2.5 Hours)
Take 2.5 hours to explore the Mutianyu Great Wall. Highlights include:
- Scenic chairlift rides with panoramic views of the wall and surrounding nature.
- Exploring beacon towers with historic significance.
- Toboggan slideway ride down for a fun and thrilling experience.
4. Head Back to Downtown Beijing (1.5 Hours)
After your visit to the Great Wall, head back to downtown Beijing, allowing 1.5 hours for the journey.
5. Explore the Forbidden City (3.5 Hours)
At the Forbidden City, allocate 3.5 hours to explore the former imperial palace, including:
- The Hall of Supreme Harmony, Imperial Garden, and Palace of Heavenly Purity.
- Don’t miss the Treasure Museum and Clock Museum for an in-depth look at China’s imperial treasures.
6. Stroll Through Qianmen Street (2 Hours)
Spend 2 hours in the historic Qianmen Street. Walk through Dashilan for some traditional shopping, enjoy delicious street food, or relax in one of the many cafes.
7. Visit the Temple of Heaven (2 Hours)
Next, dedicate 2 hours to the Temple of Heaven, one of Beijing’s most iconic landmarks. Explore:
- The Heavenly Altar, Echo Wall, and Circular Mound Altar.
- The surrounding park where locals engage in Tai Chi and other activities.
8. Explore Shichahai Lake Area (2 Hours)
Head to the Shichahai Lake area, a charming part of Beijing known for its historic hutongs and lakeside ambiance. Spend 2 hours exploring:
- Enjoy a peaceful walk around Shichahai Lake and soak in the tranquility.
- Visit Bar Street for local food or relax at a lakeside cafe.
9. Travel Back to the Airport (1 Hour)
After a day of sightseeing, allow 1 hour to return to Beijing Capital International Airport.
10. Buffer Time for International Flight (Suggested Rest)
Make sure to leave 2-3 hours before your international flight, so you have ample time for check-in, security, and rest.
Conclusion: Your 20-Hour Layover in Beijing
With a 20-hour layover, you have plenty of time to explore some of Beijing’s top sights, including the Mutianyu Great Wall, Forbidden City, Temple of Heaven, Qianmen Street, and Shichahai Lake area. You’ll experience a mix of history, culture, and local life, all while ensuring you have plenty of time to get back to the airport and relax before your flight.
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See Also:
For shorter or longer layovers, check out our guides for 8-hour, 9-hour, 10-hour, 11-hour, 12-hour, 13-hour, 14-hour, 15-hour, 16-hour, 17-hour, 18-hour, 19-hour, 21-hour, 22-hour, 23-hour and 24-hour schedules.
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