Imperial China & Karst Wonders: Timeless Landscapes
Rediscovering the Heart of Classical Chinese Civilization
Day 1: Departure from Italy to Beijing
Transcontinental Journey to China's Capital
Embark on your Chinese adventure with convenient direct flights from Rome or Milan to Beijing. Choose between Air China's CA940 (20:55/13:10+1) or Alitalia's AZ790 (14:20/06:20+1) from Rome, or the exclusive CA950 (21:00/13:30+1) from Milan. The 10-10.5 hour flight connects you seamlessly to the beginning of your imperial exploration.
Day 2: Beijing Arrival and Initial Immersion
First Steps in the Imperial Capital
Arrive at Beijing Capital Airport and transfer independently to Hotel Yoo Beijing in the city center. Strategically located near Wangfujing Commercial Street, your accommodation provides easy access to Tiananmen Square and the Forbidden City. Spend your first afternoon acclimating to Beijing's vibrant atmosphere.
Day 3: Imperial Beijing Exploration
From Tiananmen to Traditional Hutongs
Begin your imperial journey at Tiananmen Square, the symbolic heart of China. Walk north through Tiananmen Tower to enter the magnificent Forbidden City, exploring the imperial palace that housed 24 emperors across Ming and Qing dynasties. Experience traditional Beijing life in Skewed Tobacco Pouch Street hutong, where man-powered rickshaws offer authentic transportation through ancient alleyways.
Day 4: Great Wall Adventure at Mutianyu
Conquering China's Most Iconic Fortification
Journey 45 miles from downtown to Mutianyu Great Wall, renowned for its unique watchtowers and breathtaking scenery. Challenge yourself with hiking or utilize cable cars and slideways for accessibility. Navigate via subway to Dongzhimen Transport Hub, then bus 916 Express to Huairou, completing your journey with local transportation to the wall.
Day 5: Imperial Worship and Summer Retreat
Temple of Heaven and Summer Palace Discovery
Explore the Temple of Heaven, where emperors conducted sacred harvest ceremonies. Witness locals flying kites in spring before continuing to the Summer Palace, showcasing perfect harmony between natural landscapes and imperial architecture. Experience both UNESCO World Heritage sites through efficient public transportation connections.
Day 6: Capital Transition to Ancient Luoyang
From Pandas to Pagodas
Morning visit to Beijing Zoo to observe giant pandas during their active feeding hours. After luggage storage at West Railway Station, board an afternoon bullet train to Luoyang (approximately 4 hours). Arrive at Luoyang Longmen Station and transfer to Holiday Inn Express Luoyang City Center, perfectly positioned for tomorrow's adventures.
Day 7: Shaolin Temple Martial Arts Pilgrimage
Birthplace of Chinese Kung Fu
Travel 35 miles to Dengfeng City to explore Shaolin Temple, established in 495 AD during the Northern Wei Dynasty. Marvel at the Pagoda Forest with 240 Buddhist stupas and witness authentic Kung Fu performances by temple monks. Return to Luoyang via direct bus service, immersed in martial arts history.
Day 8: Buddhist Grottoes to Ancient Xi'an
Longmen's Sacred Caves and Capital Transfer
Morning exploration of Longmen Grottoes, featuring 2,345 caves, over 100,000 Buddhist statues, and 2,800 inscriptions carved into Longmen Mountain. After depositing luggage, take a high-speed train (90-120 minutes) through scenic landscapes to Xi'an. Settle into Days Inn City Center, strategically located for urban exploration.
Day 9: Terracotta Warriors and Muslim Quarter
Qin Dynasty's Eternal Army and Culinary Delights
Discover the Terracotta Army Museum, Emperor Qin Shi Huang's underground military formation. After marveling at pottery figures and bronze chariots, immerse yourself in Muslim Quarter's vibrant food culture. Sample local specialties including Shaanxi sandwich (Rou Jia Mo) and Crumbled Flatbread in Mutton Stew (Yangrou Paomo).
Day 10: Ancient City Walls and Buddhist Heritage
Ming Dynasty Fortifications and Big Wild Goose Pagoda
Walk or cycle along Xi'an's perfectly preserved City Wall, encompassing the city center with 11 miles of ancient fortifications. Continue to Big Wild Goose Pagoda, where hierarch Xuanzang translated Buddhist scriptures. Ascend the 1,300-year-old pagoda for panoramic city views before returning to your hotel.
Day 11: Homeward Journey from Xi'an
Farewell to Imperial China
Complete your imperial capitals tour with departure from Xi'an. Take Hainan Airlines flight HU7971 (01:00/06:55) direct to Rome on selected days, or connect through major Chinese hubs. Return to Italy enriched with profound understanding of China's imperial legacy and cultural heritage.