Silk Road Odyssey: From Capitals to Frontiers
Beijing, Xian & Shanghai - Hands-On Heritage Experience
Day 1: Beijing Arrival & Cultural Orientation
Airport Transfer & Hotel Check-in
Arrive in Beijing, China's capital city, where our local guide will greet you at the airport. Transfer to your hotel for check-in. The remainder of the day is free for you to recover from jet lag and prepare for the cultural journey ahead.
Meals: No Meal | Accommodation: Beijing Hotel
Day 2: Imperial Beijing & Hutong Cultural Workshop
Tian'anmen Square, Forbidden City & Temple of Heaven
Begin at Tian'anmen Square, the world's largest city center square, then proceed to the magnificent Forbidden City to explore ancient palace halls and royal gardens. After authentic Chinese lunch, visit the Temple of Heaven where emperors prayed for good harvests.
Hutong Cultural Immersion & Beijing Opera Mask Painting
Experience authentic local life walking through traditional Hutongs. Visit a local family to learn the art of Beijing Opera facial makeup painting - a hands-on cultural activity perfect for families.
Meals: Breakfast, Chinese Lunch | Accommodation: Beijing Hotel
Day 3: Great Wall Adventure & Olympic Legacy
Mutianyu Great Wall Exploration
Journey to Mutianyu Great Wall, less crowded and perfect for families. Enjoy cable car access and optional sled descent. Consider our picnic lunch option for extended Wall exploration.
Olympic Architecture Photo Session
Capture memorable photos outside the iconic Bird Nest Stadium and Water Cube from the 2008 Beijing Olympics. Summer visitors can enjoy swimming at Water Cube.
Meals: Breakfast, Chinese Lunch | Accommodation: Beijing Hotel
Day 4: Imperial Gardens & High-Speed to Xian
Summer Palace Discovery
Explore the magnificent Summer Palace, China's best-preserved imperial garden. Enjoy boating on Kunming Lake and walking the world's longest corridor with exquisite paintings.
High-Speed Rail Experience
After lunch, experience China's modern transportation via high-speed train to Xian (5-5.5 hours). Alternative panda viewing at Beijing Zoo available upon request.
Meals: Breakfast, Chinese Lunch | Accommodation: Xian Hotel
Day 5: Terracotta Warriors & Ancient City Wall
Terracotta Warriors Archaeological Wonder
Discover the incredible Terracotta Warriors army, followed by a hands-on pottery workshop creating miniature warrior replicas with local artisans.
Ancient City Wall Adventure
Walk or cycle along the ancient city walls (weather permitting), with family-friendly options including golf carts for younger children.
Meals: Breakfast, Chinese Lunch | Accommodation: Xian Hotel
Day 6: Xian Cultural Heritage & Shanghai Transfer
Big Wild Goose Pagoda & Traditional Courtyard
Visit Big Wild Goose Pagoda and watch the fountain show, then explore Gao's Courtyard to appreciate ancient architecture and traditional paper-cutting arts.
Muslim Quarter Exploration
Experience the vibrant Muslim Quarter with its diverse local snacks and shopping opportunities before flying to Shanghai.
Meals: Breakfast, Chinese Lunch | Accommodation: Shanghai Hotel
Day 7: Shanghai Modern & Traditional Fusion
Oriental Pearl Tower & City History
Ascend the Oriental Pearl TV Tower for panoramic city views and explore Shanghai History Museum. Optional revolving restaurant lunch available.
The Bund & Classical Gardens
Admire the iconic Bund skyline, explore classical Yuyuan Garden, and experience traditional Shanghai Old Street. Evening acrobatic show recommended.
Meals: Breakfast, Chinese Lunch | Accommodation: Shanghai Hotel
Day 8: Free Exploration Day
Personalized Leisure Options
Choose from multiple family-friendly options: Shanghai Disney Resort, ancient water towns (Zhujiajiao/Xitang), or day trips to Hangzhou/Suzhou via high-speed train.
Meals: Breakfast | Accommodation: Shanghai Hotel
Day 9: Shanghai Departure
Airport Transfer with Maglev Option
Enjoy free time before airport transfer. Experience the high-speed Maglev train to Pudong Airport or direct private transfer.
Meals: Breakfast | Service Concludes