Imperial Capitals & Sacred Mountains: Journey Through Time
Rediscover Ancient China's Greatest Legacies
Embark on an extraordinary 11-day expedition through China's most historically significant cities, where imperial grandeur meets spiritual enlightenment. This carefully crafted journey takes you from the political heart of ancient empires to the sacred mountains that shaped Chinese philosophy, martial arts, and Buddhism.
Journey Highlights
Imperial Grandeur & Spiritual Enlightenment
- Walk through 5,000 years of Chinese civilization across four ancient capitals
- Witness the living legacy of Shaolin Kung Fu at its birthplace
- Explore UNESCO World Heritage sites including the Great Wall and Terracotta Army
- Experience the perfect blend of ancient traditions and modern marvels
Detailed Itinerary
Days 1-3: Beijing - The Imperial Capital
Day 1: Arrival in the Dragon's Throne
Accommodation: Sunworld Hotel Beijing Wangfujing ★★★★
Meals: No meals included
Arrive in Beijing, China's political and cultural capital for centuries. Your personal guide greets you at the airport and transfers you to your hotel. Rest and acclimate to the city that served as the imperial seat for Ming and Qing dynasties.
Day 2: Forbidden City & Heavenly Temples
Accommodation: Sunworld Hotel Beijing Wangfujing ★★★★
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Begin at Tian'anmen Square, the world's largest public square. Enter the magnificent Forbidden City, exploring the vast complex that housed Chinese emperors for nearly 500 years. Climb Jingshan Park for breathtaking panoramic views of the imperial palace. After lunch featuring authentic Beijing cuisine, visit the Temple of Heaven where emperors performed sacred harvest rituals.
Day 3: Great Wall & Olympic Legacy
Accommodation: Sunworld Hotel Beijing Wangfujing ★★★★
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Journey to Mutianyu Great Wall, one of the best-preserved sections winding through lush mountains. Choose to hike or take a cable car to witness this marvel of ancient engineering. Return to the city to see the iconic Bird's Nest and Water Cube from the 2008 Olympics, symbolizing China's modern ambitions.
Days 4-7: Sacred Henan Province - Cradle of Chinese Civilization
Day 4: Beijing to Luoyang - Ancient Lifestyles
Accommodation: Yaxiang Jinling Hotel ★★★★
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Experience traditional Beijing life with a rickshaw tour through ancient hutongs. Visit the magnificent Summer Palace, China's largest preserved imperial garden with a boat ride on Kunming Lake. Board a high-speed train to Luoyang, one of China's four great ancient capitals.
Day 5: Dengfeng - Birthplace of Shaolin Kung Fu
Accommodation: Chanwu Hotel
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Travel to the sacred Songshan Mountains to explore Shaolin Temple, the legendary birthplace of Chan Buddhism and Chinese martial arts. Witness incredible Kung Fu performances and wander through the mystical Pagoda Forest. Optional evening Zen Music Ritual show immerses you in Buddhist traditions.
Day 6: Luoyang - Buddhist Art Legacy
Accommodation: Yaxiang Jinling Hotel ★★★★
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Discover the magnificent Longmen Grottoes, a UNESCO site featuring thousands of Buddhist statues carved into limestone cliffs over 400 years. Explore Luoyang Museum of Folk Customs and wander through the Ming & Qing Old Town to understand the city's profound historical significance.
Day 7: Luoyang to Xi'an - Ancient Capitals Connection
Accommodation: Grand Noble Hotel Xi'an ★★★★
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Visit White Horse Temple, China's first Buddhist temple established in 68 AD. Explore the Emperor Carriage Museum showcasing ancient royal transportation. Board a high-speed train to Xi'an, the starting point of the Silk Road and home to the legendary Terracotta Warriors.
Days 8-9: Xi'an - First Emperor's Legacy
Day 8: Terracotta Warriors & Muslim Heritage
Accommodation: Grand Noble Hotel Xi'an ★★★★
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Marvel at the Terracotta Army, one of the greatest archaeological discoveries of the 20th century. Explore the ancient Bell Tower and visit Gao's Courtyard to appreciate traditional architecture and folk arts. Immerse yourself in the vibrant Muslim Quarter, sampling local delicacies and experiencing the city's multicultural history.
Day 9: Ancient Walls to Modern Shanghai
Accommodation: Sunrise On The Bund Hotel ★★★★
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Walk or bike along Xi'an's remarkably preserved Ancient City Wall. Visit the Big Wild Goose Pagoda and witness the spectacular fountain show. Enjoy a special dumpling banquet before exploring the Hanyang Mausoleum. Fly to Shanghai, China's dazzling modern metropolis.
Days 10-11: Shanghai - Where Tradition Meets Tomorrow
Day 10: Colonial Heritage & Modern Marvels
Accommodation: Sunrise On The Bund Hotel ★★★★
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Visit Jade Buddha Temple, home to priceless Buddhist artifacts. Admire the iconic Oriental Pearl Tower from the Riverside Promenade. Explore the classical Yuyuan Garden and shop for souvenirs along Shanghai Old Street. Stroll along the historic Bund, witnessing the stunning contrast between colonial architecture and futuristic skylines.
Day 11: Departure from China's Future
Meals: Breakfast
Enjoy a leisurely morning before transferring to Shanghai Pudong Airport. Optional Maglev train experience, the world's fastest commercial train, provides a fitting end to your journey through ancient and modern China.