Beijing Bucket List: Experience 1920s Beijing in This Unique Historical Tour

When I was a kid, I always associated Beijing with the Great Wall of China and the Forbidden City. But that’s it until I lived here. Despite traveling every month to see what Beijing has to offer, I feel like there’s a lot of cultural masterpieces waiting to be seen.

Though I love ancient buildings, hutongs, and all other things historical here, one particular part of Beijing that I have yet to know is its contemporary (or pre-modern) period, during and after the fall of the last Chinese dynasty, the Qing.

Yes, I was taught how great the imperial dynasties were, but that knowledge came from encyclopedias. What better way to explore more about Chinese history than living in China, right?

Puyi, the last emperor of China

On Wednesday (Oct 18), Newman Tours will hold a tour of old Beijing… but not the usual hutong stuff other travel groups do. This trip focuses on 1920s Beijing, the aftermath of the Qing’s fall in 1912. So much had happened during this tumultuous time in China, when warlords were tearing the country apart.

What’s more is that this historical journey, titled Unique Public Warlord Tour, happens the day after the 50th anniversary of the death of China’s last emperor, Puyi.

Newman Tours says travelers will learn how a bad foot helped the real last Emperor ascend to the throne; discover why the most powerful man in China fell from power and become a lowly landlord, and find out how the “dog meat general” earned his nickname. These are some of the highlights of this exciting trip, and I can just imagine how awesome it will be!

Newman Tours’ Unique Public Warlord Tour, Oct 18
All ages. Available as a two-hour Public Tour on the evening of Wednesday (Oct 18), 7-9pm. RMB 190 (adults), RMB 120 (for kids under 14), including a native English speaking guide. Tours must be booked in advance. See this website for starting point and private tour pricing. Newman Tours. (138 1777 0229, info@newmantours.com, www.newmantours.com)