Beijing Hutong Food Tour: Dong Si Walk & 20+ Tastings

Summary

Taste old Beijing in quiet hutongs with real locals and too many snacks

You’ll step into Beijing’s quieter Dong Si hutongs for a food tour led by someone who knows every corner—and every snack worth trying. Taste over 20 local specialties from sesame cakes to mooncakes, chat with shop owners, and maybe even brave stinky tofu if you’re game. It’s more than eating—it’s sharing laughs and stories in real neighborhoods most visitors miss.

What’s the experience like?

I’ll admit, I’d pictured Beijing’s hutongs as just another tourist stop—maybe a few pretty doors, some dumplings, then back to the hotel. But walking into Dong Si with our guide Li changed that right away. The air smelled like fried dough and something sweet (maybe that sugar cake they call Tang Er duo?), and there was this low hum of neighbors chatting in Mandarin. Not a tour group in sight—just us, Li, and a couple of old men playing cards on tiny stools. She waved at them; I tried to say hello but probably sounded like a lost duck.

We wandered through these winding lanes where every turn seemed to lead to another snack. I lost count after the tenth stop—sesame cakes still warm from the oven, baozi so soft they nearly fell apart in my hands, and something called Ma dou fu that honestly tasted way better than it looked (Li grinned when I hesitated). At one point we squeezed into this bakery no bigger than my kitchen back home, where the owner handed me a mooncake without saying a word—just nodded and smiled. The filling was sticky-sweet and earthy, not what I expected at all.

The best part? Li knew everyone. She’d tell us little stories about each spot—like how her uncle swears by the stinky tofu stall (I tried it for the story; jury’s out), or why Beijing yoghurt comes in those glass jars you have to return. We even got a “foodie challenge” surprise—let’s just say pig’s intestine broth is not for the faint-hearted, but hey, when in Beijing… By the end I felt full but also kind of connected to this place in a way I didn’t expect. The light was fading by then, lanterns coming on above the alleyways. Still think about that last bite of fried bread with red bean paste sometimes—you know?

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Dong Si Hutong and food tastings

• Walk through Dong Si Hutong area
• Visit local markets and specialty shops
• Taste over 20 traditional foods
• Meet local shop owners
• Learn about Chinese culinary culture
• Explore historical sites in hutong

Top questions

How many tastings are included on this Beijing hutong food tour?

The tour includes over 20 different food tastings at markets, bakeries, shops and restaurants.

Is pickup included for the Dong Si hutong food walking tour?

Private transfer with pickup is available if you select that option during booking.

Can dietary requirements be accommodated on this tour?

Yes, dietary requirements including vegetarian options can be accommodated if advised at booking.

Are children allowed on this Beijing food tour?

Yes, children are welcome and kids aged 1-6 years old can join for free.

What are some foods sampled on this private hutong tour?

You might try sesame cakes, baozi dumplings, mooncakes, hotpot skewers, stinky tofu (optional), and more local snacks.

What’s included

Your day includes more than 20 different food tastings across bakeries, markets and family-run shops in Dong Si hutongs; guidance from a local expert who knows everyone; bottled water; private transfer if selected; plus flexibility for dietary needs—all just for your group so you can ask questions or pause whenever you want.