China's Grand Contrasts: From Karst Peaks to Cyberpunk Skylines
An In-Depth Journey from Beijing's Imperial Grandeur to Shanghai's Modern Skyline
Itinerary Overview
This 14-day comprehensive family journey takes you through China's most iconic destinations, blending ancient history with modern experiences. Travel from Beijing's imperial monuments to Xi'an's terracotta warriors, Chengdu's pandas, the majestic Yangtze River, and Shanghai's spectacular skyline in a perfectly paced adventure designed for all ages.
Detailed Daily Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Beijing - Welcome to the Imperial Capital
Your Chinese adventure begins with a warm welcome at Beijing Airport. After meeting your guide, transfer to the distinctive Double Happiness Courtyard Hotel, a 200-year-old traditional courtyard residence nestled within Beijing's historic hutongs. This boutique 4-star accommodation offers authentic Chinese cultural experiences, including opportunities to wear traditional clothing and savor both Western and Chinese breakfast options.
Special Features: - Smoke-free vehicles throughout your journey - Customizable meal options including vegetarian preferences - Historic courtyard accommodation in Beijing's traditional alleyways
Day 2: Beijing - Imperial Splendor & Hutong Life
Begin your exploration at Tiananmen Square, the world's largest public square, before entering the magnificent Forbidden City. Discover the secrets of imperial life as you learn about the rigorous education schedule of ancient princes. Enjoy a specially curated à la carte welcome lunch featuring Beijing's famous roast duck.
Afternoon Highlights: - Visit the architectural marvel of Temple of Heaven - Ascend Drum Tower for panoramic hutong views - Engage in cultural activities with a local family (calligraphy, facial painting, or paper cutting)
Evening Recommendation: Experience futuristic dining at Haidilao AI-powered Hot Pot (additional cost)
Day 3: Beijing - Great Wall & Imperial Gardens
Journey to Mutianyu Great Wall, one of the best-preserved sections, where you'll enjoy round-trip cable car access. Spend the morning hiking along this ancient wonder before visiting the exquisite Summer Palace, a masterpiece of Chinese landscape garden design.
Photography Opportunities: - Breathtaking Great Wall vistas - Serene Kunming Lake at Summer Palace - Traditional courtyard architecture
Day 4: Beijing - Free Exploration Day
Today offers flexibility to explore Beijing according to your family's interests. We highly recommend Universal Studios Beijing for families with children, featuring themed lands from Transformers to Harry Potter. Our team can assist with ticket reservations and transportation arrangements.
Alternative Options: - Explore more hutongs and local markets - Visit additional historical sites - Enjoy Beijing's culinary scene
Day 5: Beijing to Xi'an - Science & High-Speed Travel
Visit the China Science and Technology Museum to discover ancient Chinese innovations before experiencing China's modern marvel - high-speed rail to Xi'an. The comfortable train journey offers glimpses of the changing landscape as you travel to the ancient capital.
Evening: Check into Holiday Inn Xi'an Big Goose Pagoda with its convenient location near historical sites.
Day 6: Xi'an - Terracotta Warriors & Tang Dynasty Glory
Stand in awe before the Terracotta Army, where thousands of life-sized soldiers guard China's first emperor. Participate in a hands-on workshop crafting miniature terracotta figures using the same clay that created the original warriors 2,200 years ago.
Afternoon Exploration: - Shaanxi History Museum's treasure-filled galleries - External view of Giant Wild Goose Pagoda - Stroll through Grand Tang Dynasty Mall
Day 7: Xi'an to Chengdu - City Walls & Culinary Delights
Morning cycling or walking along Xi'an's ancient City Wall offers unique perspectives of the old capital. Explore the vibrant Muslim Quarter for lunch, sampling local specialties including the famous Chinese Hamburger (roujiamo).
Travel Note: Afternoon high-speed train to Chengdu, the panda capital, with hotel check-in at Holiday Inn Chengdu Oriental Plaza.
Day 8: Chengdu - Panda Keeper Program
Today's highlight: become a panda volunteer at Dujiangyan Panda Base! This full-day immersive experience includes:
Volunteer Schedule: - 7:00-8:30: Transfer to panda base - 8:30-9:00: Registration and orientation - 9:00-10:00: Panda enclosure cleaning - 10:00-11:00: Panda observation and education - 11:00-13:00: Panda feeding observation and lunch - 13:00-15:30: Panda documentary and cake preparation - 15:30: Certificate presentation and return transfer
Important Notes: Activities may adjust based on panda needs and weather conditions.
Day 9: Chengdu to Chongqing - Local Life & River Cruise Preparation
Experience authentic Chengdu life at a local vegetable market before visiting the unique Giant Panda Post Office to send special souvenirs. Stroll along Chunxi Road with its iconic climbing panda sculpture.
Afternoon Transition: High-speed train to Chongqing followed by boarding your luxury Century Cruise ship. Evening welcome dinner and captain's reception initiate your Yangtze River adventure.
Day 10: Yangtze River Cruise - Cultural Immersion
Begin your day with optional Tai Chi lessons on deck before visiting Fengdu Ghost City, an ancient temple complex showcasing Chinese spiritual beliefs. Afternoon cultural activities onboard provide deeper understanding of river life and traditions.
Day 11: Three Gorges & Goddess Stream
Marvel at the spectacular Three Gorges scenery that has inspired poets for centuries. Pass through dramatic Qutang Gorge and picturesque Wu Gorge before exploring the pristine landscapes of Shennv Stream (Goddess Stream) via smaller vessels.
Day 12: Three Gorges Dam & Journey to Shanghai
Disembark in Yichang after breakfast to visit the monumental Three Gorges Dam, the world's largest hydroelectric project. Afternoon high-speed train transports you to Shanghai for check-in at the enchanting Hengshan Moller Villa Hotel, a fairytale-like Scandinavian castle design.
Day 13: Shanghai - Traditional Gardens & Modern Marvels
Choose between Shanghai Museum's ancient artifacts or Natural History Museum's fascinating specimens. Explore the classical beauty of 400-year-old Yu Garden before savoring authentic Shanghai cuisine.
Afternoon Highlights: - The Bund's colonial architecture - Huangpu River cruise - Breathtaking city views from Shanghai Tower's Duoyun Bookstore
Day 14: Shanghai Departure
Your guide assists with airport transfer for your homeward journey, concluding your comprehensive Chinese adventure filled with unforgettable memories and cultural insights.