Imperial Capitals, Warriors & Sacred Peaks
Discover China's Cultural Treasures and Natural Wonders on an Expertly Curated Small Group Tour
Introduction
This meticulously crafted 11-day small group journey unveils China's most iconic destinations, blending ancient wonders with modern marvels. Experience the perfect balance of value and personalized attention as you explore imperial palaces, walk along the Great Wall, stand before the Terracotta Army, and ascend the breathtaking peaks of Huangshan. This comprehensive itinerary offers an immersive cultural experience while maintaining the comfort and intimacy of a private tour.
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Beijing - Gateway to Imperial China
Arrival and Hotel Transfer - Transfer from Beijing Capital International Airport to your hotel - Free time to rest and adjust to the time difference - Meals: No meals included - Accommodation: 4-Star Hotel in Beijing
Day 2: Beijing's Imperial Legacy
Temple of Heaven, Hutong Exploration & Forbidden City - Morning visit to the Temple of Heaven, where emperors prayed for good harvests - Experience authentic Beijing life with a rickshaw tour through ancient Hutongs - Participate in Peking opera facial mask painting cultural activity - Explore Tian'anmen Square, the world's largest city center square - Immerse yourself in the magnificent Forbidden City, home to Chinese emperors - Meals: Hotel breakfast and à la carte Chinese lunch - Accommodation: 4-Star Hotel in Beijing
Day 3: The Great Wall Experience
Mutianyu Great Wall & Olympic Landmarks - Full-day excursion to Mutianyu section of the Great Wall - Round-trip cable car included for comfortable access - Marvel at the ancient fortifications and breathtaking mountain scenery - Photo stop at the Bird's Nest and Water Cube Olympic venues - Meals: Hotel breakfast and à la carte lunch - Accommodation: 4-Star Hotel in Beijing
Day 4: Imperial Gardens & High-Speed to Xi'an
Summer Palace and Journey to Ancient Capital - Morning exploration of the Summer Palace, China's best-preserved imperial garden - Cruise on Kunming Lake and walk along the famous Long Corridor - Afternoon high-speed train to Xi'an (approximately 5-5.5 hours) - Meals: Hotel breakfast and à la carte lunch - Accommodation: 4-Star Hotel in Xi'an
Day 5: Xi'an's Ancient Wonders
Terracotta Warriors & Historical City Wall - Morning bicycle ride or walk along the ancient Xi'an City Wall - Visit the world-renowned Terracotta Warriors archaeological site - Hands-on pottery workshop experience creating miniature warriors - Explore Bell Tower Square and the vibrant Muslim Quarter - Sample local street food and shop for traditional crafts - Meals: Hotel breakfast and à la carte lunch - Accommodation: 4-Star Hotel in Xi'an
Day 6: Cultural Xi'an & Flight to Shanghai
Traditional Courtyards and Modern Metropolis - Visit Gao's Courtyard to appreciate ancient residential architecture - Experience traditional shadow puppetry performance - Photograph the Big Wild Goose Pagoda and enjoy musical fountain show - Afternoon flight to Shanghai, China's commercial capital - Meals: Hotel breakfast and à la carte lunch - Accommodation: 4-Star Hotel in Shanghai
Day 7: Shanghai's Contrasts
Classical Gardens and Modern Skyline - Explore Shikumen architecture and witness local Shanghai life - Visit the classical Yuyuan Garden and Chenghuangmiao Old Street - Ascend the Oriental Pearl TV Tower for panoramic city views - Explore Shanghai City History Museum - Evening walk along the Bund to admire illuminated skyline - Meals: Hotel breakfast and à la carte lunch - Accommodation: 4-Star Hotel in Shanghai
Day 8: Journey to Huangshan
Free Morning and Scenic Transfer - Leisure morning for personal exploration or shopping in Shanghai - Afternoon high-speed train to Huangshan (approximately 3 hours) - Evening stroll through Tunxi Old Street - Meals: Hotel breakfast - Accommodation: 4-Star Hotel in Huangshan City
Day 9: Majestic Huangshan
The Yellow Mountain Adventure - Full-day exploration of Mount Huangshan, a UNESCO World Heritage site - Cable car ascent to mountain peaks (optional, at own expense) - Hike among iconic granite peaks and ancient pine trees - Visit scenic spots including Beginning-to-Believe Peak and Lion Peak - Marvel at the sea of clouds and unique rock formations - Meals: Hotel breakfast (lunch at own expense on mountain) - Accommodation: 4-Star Hotel in Huangshan City
Day 10: Ancient Villages & Return to Shanghai
Hongcun Village and Journey Back - Morning visit to Hongcun Ancient Village, film location for "Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon" - Explore traditional Hui-style architecture and tranquil water systems - Visit South Lake, Chengzhi Hall, and other historical structures - Afternoon high-speed train return to Shanghai - Meals: Hotel breakfast - Accommodation: 4-Star Hotel in Shanghai
Day 11: Departure from Shanghai
Farewell to China - Transfer to Shanghai Pudong International Airport for departure - Meals: Hotel breakfast - Service Ends
Tour Highlights
- Small group experience combining value and personalized attention
- Comprehensive exploration of China's most iconic historical sites
- Perfect blend of ancient culture and modern development
- Expert local guides providing deep cultural insights
- Comfortable accommodations and transportation throughout
- Multiple cultural immersion activities and hands-on experiences