Serenity in Motion: Hangzhou & Wuzhen Cultural Escape
Rediscover Ancient China Through Its Grand Monuments, Living Traditions & Natural Wonders
Journey Overview
A Small-Group Cultural Immersion
This meticulously crafted 11-day expedition takes you through China's most iconic destinations, blending ancient history with modern vitality. Travel with like-minded explorers in a small group setting, uncovering the profound cultural heritage of Beijing, Xi'an, Chengdu, and Shanghai while creating meaningful connections with both historical treasures and fellow travelers.
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in China's Imperial Capital
Arrival Beijing
Upon landing at Beijing Capital International Airport, our representative greets you for transfer to your four-star hotel. The remainder of the day offers leisure time to recover from your journey and anticipate the cultural wonders ahead.
Day 2: Beijing's Spiritual & Imperial Grandeur
Temple of Heaven, Hutong Life, Forbidden City
Begin at the Temple of Heaven, where emperors performed sacred ceremonies. Experience authentic Beijing through a rickshaw Hutong tour, including a local family visit and Peking opera mask painting workshop. After an à la carte lunch, proceed to Tian'anmen Square before exploring the magnificent Forbidden City, the world's largest imperial palace complex.
Day 3: Great Wall & Olympic Legacy
Mutianyu Great Wall, Bird's Nest & Water Cube
Journey to the breathtaking Mutianyu section of the Great Wall, ascending via cable car for unparalleled views. Following an à la carte lunch, return to Beijing for photographic opportunities at the iconic Bird's Nest Stadium and Water Cube from the 2008 Olympics.
Day 4: Imperial Gardens & High-Speed to Ancient Capital
Summer Palace, Bullet Train to Xi'an
Explore the exquisite Summer Palace, China's best-preserved imperial gardens, before enjoying a final Beijing lunch. Board a high-speed train to Xi'an, where upon arrival you'll check into your hotel with evening at leisure.
Day 5: Terracotta Warriors & Ancient City Walls
Xi'an City Wall, Terracotta Army, Muslim Quarter
Walk the ancient City Wall before visiting a pottery workshop to create miniature warrior replicas. After lunch, encounter the archaeological marvel of the Terracotta Warriors. Conclude at Bell Tower Square and the vibrant Muslim Quarter for local delicacies and shopping.
Day 6: Traditional Courtyards & Journey to Panda Capital
Gao's Courtyard, Wild Goose Pagoda, Train to Chengdu
Discover Gao's Courtyard with its shadow puppetry traditions and visit the Big Wild Goose Pagoda North Plaza. Board an afternoon high-speed train to Chengdu, arriving in the evening to check into your hotel.
Day 7: Giant Pandas & Sacred Mountains
Panda Research Base, Leshan Giant Buddha
Morning visit to the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding to observe these national treasures. After lunch, travel to Leshan to witness the monumental Giant Buddha carved into cliffsides, either hiking around the statue or viewing from the river.
Day 8: Chengdu's Leisure Culture
People's Park, Wuhou Temple, Jinli Ancient Street
Experience local life at People's Park, sipping tea while observing traditional pastimes. Visit the serene Wuhou Temple before exploring the adjacent Jinli Ancient Street with its traditional architecture and local crafts.
Day 9: Flight to China's Modern Metropolis
Chengdu to Shanghai Transfer
Morning at leisure with optional activities including Jinsha Site Museum, Kuanzhai Alley exploration, or a final Sichuan hotpot experience. Afternoon flight to Shanghai with hotel transfer upon arrival.
Day 10: Shanghai's Contrasting Faces
Shikumen Alleys, Yu Garden, Oriental Pearl Tower, The Bund
Discover traditional Shanghai through Shikumen alleyways before visiting the classical Yu Garden and adjacent bazaar. After lunch, ascend the Oriental Pearl Tower for panoramic views and explore the Shanghai History Museum. Conclude at The Bund, admiring the spectacular contrast between colonial architecture and Pudong's futuristic skyline.
Day 11: Farewell to China
Shanghai Departure
After breakfast, transfer to Shanghai Pudong International Airport for your homebound flight, concluding this immersive journey through China's cultural heartlands.