Imperial Capitals & Ancient Pathways: China's Heartland
A Tailored Exploration of Dynastic Splendors, Ancient Architecture, and Cultural Treasures
Tour Overview
Journey Through China's Historical Timeline
This meticulously crafted 11-day expedition takes you through the cradle of Chinese civilization, from imperial capitals to ancient trading hubs. Experience the grandeur of dynastic empires, marvel at architectural masterpieces, and immerse yourself in living history across five remarkable cities that have shaped China's cultural landscape for millennia.
Detailed Itinerary
Days 1-4: Imperial Beijing - The Heart of Ancient Power
Day 1: Arrival in the Capital
Beijing Arrival & Hotel Transfer
Arrive in Beijing, China's magnificent capital. Your personal guide greets you at the airport and transfers you to Sunworld Hotel Beijing Wangfujing (★★★★). After check-in, the remainder of your day is free to rest and anticipate the historical wonders ahead.
Day 2: Imperial Grandeur & Heavenly Worship
Tian'anmen Square, Forbidden City, Jingshan Park, Temple of Heaven
Morning exploration begins at Tian'anmen Square, the world's largest public square. Enter the magnificent Forbidden City, the world's most complete imperial palace complex. Ascend Jingshan Park for breathtaking panoramic views over the former imperial residence. After lunch at Shi Yuan Restaurant, visit the Temple of Heaven where emperors prayed for abundant harvests. Conclude with shopping at Panjiayuan Antique Market and Pearl Market.
Day 3: Great Wall Marvels & Olympic Legacy
Mutianyu Great Wall, Olympic Park Exteriors
Journey to Mutianyu Great Wall, renowned for its stunning scenery and excellent preservation. Choose to hike or take the cable car to experience this world wonder. After lunch at Xiaolongpu Restaurant, return to Beijing to photograph the iconic Bird Nest and Water Cube from the 2008 Olympics. Enjoy a traditional Chinese tea ceremony before returning to your hotel.
Day 4: Local Life & Imperial Gardens
Beijing Hutong Tour, Summer Palace
Experience traditional Beijing life with a rickshaw tour through ancient hutongs. Visit the magnificent Summer Palace, China's largest and best-preserved imperial garden, including a boat ride on Kunming Lake. Enjoy lunch at Xiangyangtun Restaurant before free time to explore Wangfujing Commercial Street or historic Dashilar.
Days 5-6: Buddhist Treasures & Architectural Marvels
Day 5: Beijing to Datong - Cave Temples & Ancient Monasteries
High Speed Train to Datong, Yungang Grottoes, Huayan Monastery, Nine Dragons Screen
Morning high-speed train to Datong. Explore the magnificent Yungang Grottoes with over 51,000 Buddhist carvings. After local lunch, visit Huayan Monastery, the largest Liao Dynasty monastery, and the stunning Nine Dragon Wall, China's oldest glazed screen. Check into Weidu International Hotel Datong Centre (★★★★).
Day 6: Datong to Pingyao - Hanging Wonders & Ancient Pagodas
Hanging Temple, Yingxian Wooden Pagoda
Check out and visit the incredible Hanging Temple, a masterpiece of ancient wooden construction clinging to cliffs. Continue to Yingxian Wooden Pagoda, one of the world's three great pagodas. After lunch, travel to Pingyao Ancient City, checking into Hongshanyi Hotel (★★★★).
Days 7-9: Ancient Trading Empires & Terracotta Warriors
Day 7: Pingyao to Xi'an - Merchant Legacy
Qiao Courtyard, Rishengchang Exchange Shop, Ming Qing Street
Explore Qiao Courtyard, home of the powerful Jin merchant family. Return to Pingyao Ancient Town for lunch before visiting Rishengchang Exchange Shop, China's first bank established in 1643. Stroll along Ming Qing Street before taking an evening high-speed train to Xi'an. Check into Grand Noble Hotel Xi'an (★★★★).
Day 8: Xi'an's Imperial Legacy
Terracotta Warriors, Bell Tower, Gao's Courtyard, Muslim Quarter
Discover the incredible Terracotta Warriors, one of archaeology's greatest finds. After lunch at Lanchi Restaurant, visit the historic Bell Tower and Gao's Courtyard to appreciate ancient residences and traditional crafts. Explore the vibrant Muslim Quarter with its exotic snacks and shopping opportunities.
Day 9: Xi'an to Shanghai - Ancient Walls to Modern Metropolis
Ancient City Wall, Wild Goose Pagoda, Hanyang Tomb, Flight to Shanghai
Walk or cycle along Xi'an's Ancient City Wall, then visit the Big Wild Goose Pagoda and watch the fountain show. Enjoy a special dumpling banquet lunch before visiting Hanyang Mausoleum, China's largest museum. Fly to Shanghai and check into Sunrise On The Bund Hotel (★★★★).
Days 10-11: Colonial Heritage & Modern Marvels
Day 10: Shanghai's Contrasts
Jade Buddha Temple, Oriental Pearl TV Tower, Yuyuan Garden, The Bund
Visit Jade Buddha Temple with its priceless jade Buddha statue. See the iconic Oriental Pearl TV Tower and stroll along Riverside Promenade. After dim sum lunch, explore classical Yuyuan Garden, shop at Shanghai Old Street and Nanjing Road, then walk along The Bund's architectural gallery. Optional evening acrobatic show.
Day 11: Departure
Airport Transfer
Free time before airport transfer. Optional Maglev train experience to Pudong Airport for a fitting technological conclusion to your historical journey.