Rainy Days in Beijing don’t have to mean staying indoors. Beijing summers can be wet, but don’t let a little rain ruin your plans. In fact, it’s the perfect excuse to explore the city like a local. Ride an eBike through quiet hutongs, taste street food under steamy rooftops, sip cocktails in hidden bars, or try a hands-on cultural workshop indoors. Rain or shine, Beijing never stops — and neither should you.
At Our Beijing, we offer deeply local, small-group experiences—from hutong bike tours to foodie adventures and custom cultural itineraries. Whether you’re here for a day or a week, we help you skip the tourist traps and truly connect with the heartbeat of the city.
Keyword: Beijing Hutong bike tour
Beijing’s hutongs—the city’s historic alleyways—are best explored on two wheels. Our small-group bike tours take you deep into these living neighborhoods, where bicycles still outnumber cars and every turn tells a story. Expect tree-shaded lanes, hidden temples, mahjong games in courtyards, and locals greeting you with a smile.
You’re still good to go. Summer showers in Beijing are often light and refreshing. A quick poncho and you’ll be gliding through misty alleys with puddles reflecting red lanterns and tiled roofs—an atmosphere you’d never get on a sunny day. Plus, the rain tends to clear out crowds, giving you that rare “Beijing to yourself” feeling.
You’ll get the full hutong buzz: food carts sizzling at corners, kids chasing each other on bikes, grandpas out for their morning strolls. Either way, cycling keeps you close to the city’s heartbeat, while covering much more ground than walking.
Depending on your route, you might pass through Lama Temple, Guozijian, Wudaoying, Drum Tower, or the lakes of Shichahai. All routes are curated by Our Beijing’s local guides —so no GPS needed, just follow the rhythm.
Pro tip: Bring a light rain jacket or ask us in advance—we always have extras. Our eBikes are rain-ready and adjustable for all levels, from casual riders to adventure-seekers.
Keyword: Beijing foodie tour on rainy days in Beijing
Rainy weather in Beijing doesn’t dull the flavors—it intensifies them. In fact, some of the best foodie tours happen under a light drizzle, when the aroma of jianbing, steaming baozi, and simmering soy broth floats through misty alleys. Hutongs come alive with sizzling sounds and fragrant smoke, and you’ll find locals crowding under awnings or street-side tents, happily slurping noodles or sharing a plate of cold mung bean jelly.
Think hand-pulled noodles drenched in sesame sauce, pan-fried dumplings that burst with broth, or sweet-and-savory desserts like hawthorn jelly or almond tofu. Rain makes everything more comforting—and less crowded.
Our routes wind through hutongs around Beixinqiao, Lama Temple, and Gulou, where tiny eateries hide behind wooden doors or down narrow alleys. We know the spots that locals love but rarely show up on maps: one-table noodle stalls, backyard barbecue joints, vegan-friendly tofu houses, and even grandma-run dessert windows.
Why rainy days are perfect: Many hutong eateries are semi-sheltered—covered patios, rooftop tarps, and inner courtyards where you can sit dry and enjoy the atmosphere. Rain keeps the tourists away but never stops the locals, which means you’ll see Beijing in its truest, hungriest form.
Our tip: Wear comfy shoes for puddle hopping and bring your appetite. Our guides will adjust the pace and route depending on weather.
Keyword: bars in Beijing hutongs / where to drink when it rains
When the rain hits, it’s time to slow down and raise a glass. Hidden bars in the hutongs offer refuge and character: think candle-lit tables, rooftop views of rain-soaked tiles, or just that old-school Beijing vibe. Whether you’re with friends or meeting new ones, this is your moment to say “Ganbei!” to a rainy adventure.
We’ve partnered with the most beloved hutong bar in Beijing—places known not just for their craft beers, but also for their house-made burgers, and warm neighborhood feel. One of our favorites features rooftop seating with temple views, while another tucks itself behind a discreet grey brick façade near Lama Temple, serving up fusion bar snacks with a Beijing twist.
Need to stay dry? No problem—these spots offer cozy indoor spaces with jazz playlists, board games, and glowing amber lights. Rain just adds to the mood. Want something more open-air? Look for covered rooftop terraces where you can sip a local brew while watching the storm pass over the hutongs.
Most importantly, these aren’t touristy bars—they’re where Beijing’s creative crowd and longtime locals hang out. Many are located near Our Beijing’s favorite walking and biking routes, making it easy to end your day with a well-earned drink.
🍻 Want us to reserve a table or recommend a spot near your hotel? Just ask during your Our Beijing tour—we’ve got you covered, rain or shine.
Keyword: cultural workshop in Beijing / things to do indoors in Beijing
Looking for something more grounded? Join a cultural workshop where you can make learn Mahjong, make Jianbing, play Chinese chess, or try Chinese calligraphy—all indoors, rainproof, and deeply local. These cozy sessions are perfect on grey days, offering a chance to slow down and connect with Beijing’s artistic traditions.Fun, interactive, and perfect for travelers of all ages.
No umbrella? No problem. Beijing in the summer is full of surprises. Just bring your curiosity (and maybe a light raincoat), and let Our Beijing help you navigate it all—rain or shine. Check out our full Beijing itinerary to craft your perfect day.
A: Some of the best activities include exploring local street food on a foodie tour, relaxing in cozy hutong bars, or taking a cultural workshop indoors. Rainy weather often means fewer crowds, giving you a more local and authentic experience.
Rainy days in Beijing don’t have to mean staying indoors. From cycling through misty hutongs to tasting comfort foods, raising a glass in a hidden bar, or learning a new craft in a cozy studio — the city has endless ways to keep you inspired. At Our Beijing, we design experiences that adapt to the weather, so you never miss a moment.
Whether you’re here for a day, a week, or just looking for unique things to do in Beijing, we’ll help you discover the local side of the city — rain or shine. Get in touch today to plan your perfect adventure.