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Stroll along the Tongzi River and soak up old Beijing's charm! This moat encircling the Forbidden City has witnessed 600 years of imperial history, where emerald waters reflect crimson walls and golden roofs like a living painting. Twilight transforms it into magic hour – watch vermilion walls gilded by sunset while modern skyscrapers loom behind, creating surreal contrasts. Hop on a pedicab for waterfront storytelling sessions with drivers who'll spill palace gossip from dynasties past.
This hotel is the perfect choice for both business trips and leisure vacations! Located in the heart of Wangfujing Street, surrounded by shopping malls and unique restaurants, it offers stunning views of the Forbidden City and boasts an unbeatable location. Just a short walk to the subway, it’s super convenient to visit Tiananmen Square, the Palace Museum, and Dashilan. The hotel features executive lounges, a fitness center, and an indoor pool, along with French cuisine and buffet dining. Rooms are well-equipped with free Wi-Fi and HD TVs, some even overlooking the royal cityscape! Whether for work or play, this is your ideal stay!
Nestled in the bustling CBD area, this hotel offers more than just convenient access to Wangfujing and the Ancient Observatory—it brings natural hot spring water straight to your room! Perfect for both business and leisure, with amenities like Chinese restaurants, lounge bars, and meeting rooms. Don’t miss the hot spring club to unwind after a busy day. Plus, 24-hour front desk and airport transfers make your stay seamless and stress-free.
This hotel is super convenient! Located in the heart of Beijing, just a short walk from Beijing Railway Station and close to the subway. Surrounded by shopping malls and government offices, it's also near Wangfujing for a great shopping experience. The hotel offers a fitness center, executive floors, and multiple meeting rooms, perfect for both business trips and vacations. With airport transfer services, you can relax as soon as you land. At night, enjoy the stunning Jiuyanqiao night view. Plus, the price is a real bargain—great value for money!
This hotel is perfect for both families and business travelers! With a prime location near the subway and popular attractions like the Temple of Heaven and Deyun Club, convenience is guaranteed. Enjoy family-friendly rooms and meeting halls for business needs. Amenities like free parking and a 24-hour front desk add to the comfort. The restaurant serves delicious Anhui cuisine and local dishes. A top choice for your next trip to Beijing!
Everything you need to know about Tongzi River
Waldorf Astoria Beijing is ideal for guests seeking imperial views of the Courtyard River and Forbidden City. Located just steps from the riverbanks, its rooms offer panoramic vistas of ancient red walls and golden roofs. The hotel provides exclusive Imperial Heritage Tours, guiding visitors through quiet pathways along the Courtyard River with expert historians. With access to Tiananmen Square within a 5-minute walk, it’s perfect for both cultural immersion and convenience. For a memorable evening, join the hotel’s Moonlit Palace Walk, an illuminated nighttime journey reflecting on the river’s centuries-old history.
Staying at Beijing Hotel or New East Oriental Hotel puts you just a 10-minute walk from the Forbidden City's main entrance. Both properties offer complimentary shuttle services to the southern gate (Duanmen) every hour, ensuring seamless access. Guests can also book multilingual guided tours at reception, led by historians who reveal hidden stories behind imperial architecture. For the best experience, arrive before 7:30 AM when the Courtyard River glows under morning mist, creating a serene backdrop for photos with the Forbidden City’s golden rooftops.
Beijing Guesthouse features a signature program called "Morning Light at the Forbidden City", where guests gather at 6:30 AM by the Courtyard River to explore restricted areas with expert guides—walking the original Imperial Procession Path and standing beneath the Hall of Supreme Harmony. Afterward, enjoy authentic Imperial Tea Ceremony and Manchu-Han Fusion Pastries. Another highlight is the Imperial Calligraphy Workshop, held in a traditional study room using replica brushes and ink, where participants create their own classical scripts. These intimate experiences require advance HopeGoo and are limited to 15 guests per session for exclusivity.
Stay at The St. Regis Beijing and enjoy panoramic views of the Courtyard River and Forbidden City from its sky garden suite. The rooftop features dynamic light projections that transform palace walls into animated historical scenes each evening. The hotel hosts a monthly Riverside Poetry Gathering, where poets recite Tang and Song verses accompanied by live guqin music, creating a poetic ambiance. For tranquility, relax on riverside benches listening to rippling water and distant bell chimes echoing across the imperial city. Some suites even feature floor-to-ceiling windows, allowing guests to gaze at shimmering reflections of lanterns on the water before sleep.
JW Marriott Beijing Wangfujing is an excellent choice, located just 1.5 km from the Courtyard River with easy access to major attractions like Tiananmen Square and the Forbidden City. The hotel blends modern luxury with traditional Chinese design, offering spacious rooms, elegant interiors, and some units with panoramic views of the historic area. Its prime location allows guests to explore Beijing’s cultural heart on foot.
Another top option is Marriott Hotel Forbidden City Beijing, which features a distinctive imperial aesthetic and exceptional service. Though slightly farther from the river, it provides complimentary shuttle services to key sites and offers a tranquil retreat amidst the bustling city. Both hotels ensure comfort, convenience, and immersive experiences, making them ideal bases for discovering the rich heritage surrounding the Courtyard River.
Walking from the Courtyard River to the Forbidden City takes only about 10 minutes—just 800 meters through scenic old Beijing streets with red walls and yellow tiles. For public transit, take Line 1 of the Beijing Subway at Donghua Men Station (toward Sihui), and exit at "Forbidden City Station" after one stop—just a 3-minute walk to the entrance.
Alternatively, bus routes 103, 109, and 204 pass near the southern gate of the Forbidden City, offering direct access. Use the official Beijing Subway APP or Gaode Maps for real-time navigation and to avoid peak-hour crowds. Along the way, consider visiting Jingshan Park nearby—climb to the summit for a breathtaking panoramic view of the Forbidden City’s rooftops.
Whether walking, taking the subway, or catching a bus, getting to the Forbidden City is fast, convenient, and part of the authentic Beijing experience.
One must-try experience is morning jogging or tai chi along the riverbank, when the area is quiet and locals practice traditional exercises—offering a genuine glimpse into daily Beijing life. Join a guided tour of the Forbidden City that includes access to restricted areas and expert insights into imperial architecture and dynastic history, providing rare behind-the-scenes access.
For hands-on culture, visit craft workshops in Nanchizi Street, where you can learn cloisonné enamel techniques or paint your own Peking Opera facial makeup under master artisans’ guidance—perfect for creating personalized souvenirs. At night, stroll through Dengshikou, savor authentic local snacks like zhajiangmian, douzhi, and jiaoquan, while soaking in the atmospheric charm of historic alleyways.
These immersive activities connect travelers deeply with Beijing’s living heritage, transforming a simple visit into a memorable cultural journey.
Yes, several premium hotels such as Marriott Hotel Forbidden City Beijing and Shangri-La Beijing provide complimentary shuttle services to major attractions including the Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square, and the Courtyard River area. Shuttles run hourly from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM, with reservations required, ensuring seamless travel.
Additionally, hotel concierges assist with taxi bookings or e-bike rentals, and some room packages include free metro passes and discounts on attraction tickets. While JW Marriott Beijing Wangfujing doesn’t offer shuttles, its 24/7 concierge helps plan optimal walking routes and transportation combinations.
All recommended hotels are within walking distance of Subway Lines 1 or 2—reaching "Forbidden City Station" or "Tiananmen East Station" in just 5 minutes—making public transit a fast, efficient alternative. Whether using shuttles or metro, travelers enjoy smooth, stress-free access to Beijing’s iconic sites.
See what other travelers say about Tongzi River
Staying at Novotel Beijing Peace was an excellent experience overall. The family room was perfect for traveling with kids—spacious and comfortable, especially the sofa bed which was surprisingly large and very cozy to sleep on. Upon arrival, the front desk promptly arranged the bed-making service, and the on-duty manager, Mr. Huo, went above and beyond with his warm and attentive hospitality. Breakfast was a highlight—wide variety of options, both Western and Chinese, with consistent quality and freshness. Everything from the room comfort to the staff’s professionalism felt polished and well thought out. It's clear this is a long-established hotel that still delivers top-tier service. Highly recommend for families or anyone looking for a reliable, comfortable stay in Beijing.
We booked this hotel last minute, and honestly, it exceeded all our expectations—it truly saved the day! We arrived around 8 or 9 PM with limited room availability, and even requested to avoid end-unit rooms. The staff went above and beyond by upgrading us to a better room at no extra cost—such a thoughtful touch. Though the hotel has seen some years, the ambiance and service remain excellent. The room was spacious, quiet, and the bed was incredibly comfortable—perfect for a good night’s rest. One of our main reasons for choosing it was the unbeatable location: right in the heart of Beijing, just a 10-minute bike ride from Peking Union Medical College Hospital. Super convenient for early morning appointments. Prices are reasonable, and when you factor in everything—location, comfort, service—the value is outstanding. I’d definitely stay here again on any future trip to Beijing.
This was my first time staying at Hunan Hotel, and I'm so glad the staff took the time to walk me through everything—such a welcoming touch that made the whole experience truly memorable. The hotel is spotlessly clean from top to bottom, with no corners left untouched, which really stood out. The value for money is exceptional, especially given how well-maintained and secure the property feels—something every traveler cares about. Location-wise, it's easy to find even on a weekend, and there's plenty of parking available, which was a huge plus. All facilities are modern and thoughtfully designed, making it comfortable for both business and leisure stays. Special shoutout to Mekey, the lounge assistant manager—super responsive, friendly, and always ready to help. Their level of service made a big difference. I’d absolutely recommend this place and will definitely be back.
Stayed at Beijing Century Huangshan Hotel (Qianmen Street) and was genuinely impressed. The room came with a TV, free Wi-Fi, and the parking lot was conveniently located—just a 7-8 minute bike ride to the subway station, making transit super easy. Cleanliness was excellent; the room was spotless and well-maintained, giving a really comfortable feel. The neighborhood is quiet and peaceful, perfect for a good night’s sleep. There's a supermarket nearby, and the hotel even has its own restaurant—plus, they handed out a Jajiangmian voucher redeemable for over $1 worth of food! That little touch made the stay extra special. Staff were friendly and helpful too—they greeted us at check-in with two bottles of water and basic toiletries, which showed great attention to detail. Overall, this place offers great value, excellent location, and warm hospitality. I’d definitely recommend it for travelers looking for comfort and convenience in central Beijing.
Staying at Huguosi Hotel was an absolute delight from the moment I arrived. The staff were incredibly warm and welcoming, embodying that genuine Beijing hospitality—friendly, respectful, and thoughtful in every way. The hotel itself is a true reflection of classic Chinese design, with elegant woodwork, traditional furnishings, and a serene atmosphere that instantly transports you into a quieter, more authentic side of Beijing. Located just steps away from Shichahai and close to Beihai Park, it’s perfect for those who want to explore old Beijing on foot. Wandering through the nearby hutongs at sunset, sipping tea in a quiet courtyard, or enjoying a peaceful morning by the lake—it all feels so real and immersive. The neighborhood is safe, charming, and full of character. For anyone looking to experience the soul of Beijing beyond the tourist spots, this place offers an unforgettable stay. Truly one of the most memorable stays I’ve had in China.
Staying at He Ping Li Hotel in Beijing was an absolutely delightful experience. I especially want to commend the front desk staff, Xiao Feng and Xiao Zhao — their friendly and professional attitude made a huge difference. Any issue I had was resolved promptly and efficiently, without any hassle. From check-in to check-out, everything felt smooth and welcoming, like being treated like family. The location is fantastic — just a short subway ride away from major attractions, and there are plenty of great restaurants and convenience stores nearby. It’s a perfect balance of comfort, convenience, and value. I’ll definitely be back and highly recommend this hotel to anyone visiting Beijing.
I was thoroughly satisfied with my stay and ended up extending my booking for a few extra days! The room size was just right, filled with natural light and very quiet—perfect for a good night’s sleep. The staff were incredibly helpful; when I felt unwell and had trouble staying warm, they promptly arranged a space heater for me—such a thoughtful touch. If you're driving, parking is available, and the EV charging station is conveniently close. Located near the Third Ring Road, there are several excellent restaurants within walking distance—like Siji Tongtang, Donglaishun, Huangsi Lurou, and Tongguo Shuanniu—all highly recommended and delicious. There's also a small convenience store downstairs and a local market nearby for fresh groceries. While breakfast options are limited, we usually hit the sightseeing spots early in the morning, so we found street vendors along the way easily enough. Getting to the Forbidden City via subway takes only six stops, and exiting at Donghua Gate means minimal queues. For the Great Wall, bus 877 gets you there comfortably. Overall, the location is fantastic—central yet peaceful, and everything feels accessible. This hotel offers exceptional value, and I’d definitely come back.
Staying at Xana Hotel near Tiananmen Square and Qianmen Pedestrian Street was an absolute delight. The hotel feels brand new—clean, modern, and thoughtfully designed with a quiet elegance. Check-in was quick and smooth thanks to the friendly and efficient front desk staff, especially Xiao X, who made us feel welcome right away. The room was spacious and bright, with a comfortable bed that made for a restful night’s sleep. The bathroom is well-designed with a clear dry/wet separation, and all toiletries were neatly stocked—no need to bring your own. Location-wise, it’s unbeatable: just a short walk to major landmarks like Tiananmen Square and Qianmen, yet surrounded by peaceful streets. It's perfectly balanced between convenience and tranquility. Every little detail shows care—from the lighting to the minibar selection. For the price, the value is outstanding. I’ll definitely be coming back on my next business trip to Beijing. Highly recommended!
I can't say enough good things about this hotel! The staff at the front desk were incredibly friendly and helpful—always smiling and ready to assist with any request. Location-wise, it's perfect: just a short walk from Dongzhimen subway station and super close to Sanlitun for shopping and dining. I found the place easy to locate, and getting around to major attractions was a breeze. The room was spotless, with clean linens, a comfortable bed, and a well-maintained bathroom. Everything felt fresh and well-cared for. For the price, the value is outstanding. I’ll definitely be coming back next time I visit Beijing—and I’ve already told friends about it.
As a representative office for my hometown in Beijing, I felt it was important to support this place. Honestly, while the property isn’t brand new, the facilities are well-maintained and surprisingly impressive compared to many standard five-star hotels in Beijing. From the attention to detail in room amenities to the thoughtful service from staff, everything felt polished and professional. The rooms were quiet, clean, and incredibly comfortable—perfect for both business travelers and tourists looking for a relaxing stay. Located just steps from the subway, getting around the city is super easy. It’s rare to find such a high level of comfort and value in this price range. If you're visiting Beijing, don’t overlook Jiangsu Plaza—it truly delivers beyond expectations.
Staying at Beijing Jinlin Hotel was an absolute delight! The front desk staff went above and beyond—gave us a complimentary room upgrade, and the space was surprisingly spacious and comfortable. I especially loved the shower: strong water pressure and perfect temperature, making every evening soak feel like a mini spa treatment. It was the perfect way to unwind after a long day exploring the city. The housekeeping team was incredibly friendly too—always smiling and greeting guests with warmth. You can tell they genuinely care about creating a welcoming atmosphere. Cleanliness and attention to detail were top-notch throughout the stay. I’d definitely come back again. Just one little suggestion: if they could add free bath mats in each room, it would be even more perfect! Definitely worth recommending to friends and colleagues—this is exactly the kind of hotel that makes travel enjoyable.
If you're transferring through Beijing South Railway Station, this hotel is an excellent choice. It's incredibly close—just a 15-minute walk from the station, and even more convenient if you're arriving by subway. I've stayed here multiple times, and every visit has been consistently clean, well-maintained, and professionally managed. Though it’s been around for years, the property has been thoughtfully updated with modern touches like keycard elevators and robot delivery service—both practical and reassuring. The staff, especially front desk agent Xiao Yang on floor 609, stood out for their genuine warmth and attention to detail. They went above and beyond to accommodate requests without hesitation. The room was spotless, the air conditioning worked perfectly, and the overall atmosphere felt safe and comfortable. With its unbeatable location, great cleanliness, and exceptional hospitality, this hotel offers outstanding value. Highly recommended—definitely a place I’d return to.
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