Ancient Majesty & Modern Marvels in China's Capitals
Experience the Perfect Blend of Imperial History and Contemporary Culture
Tour Overview
Two Cities, Two Worlds
This carefully crafted 6-day journey showcases China's fascinating duality - Beijing's imperial grandeur meets Shanghai's futuristic skyline. From the Great Wall's ancient stones to the Bund's glittering towers, experience how traditional culture thrives alongside rapid modernization in these two world-class cities.
Tour Highlights
- Walk through 600 years of history in the Forbidden City
- Conquer the magnificent Mutianyu Great Wall
- Experience Beijing's local life through Hutong alleyways
- Marvel at Shanghai's architectural wonders along the Bund
- Discover traditional Chinese gardens in a modern metropolis
- Enjoy seamless high-speed train travel between cities
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Imperial Welcome - Beijing Arrival
Accommodation: Sunworld Hotel Beijing Wangfujing ★★★★
Meals: No meals included
Arrive in China's capital Beijing, where our guide will greet you at the airport regardless of your arrival time. After transferring to your hotel and checking in, the remainder of your day is free to relax and anticipate the imperial adventures ahead.
Day 2: Heart of Imperial China - Forbidden City & Temple of Heaven
Accommodation: Sunworld Hotel Beijing Wangfujing ★★★★
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Begin your exploration at Tiananmen Square, the world's largest public square. Walk through this historic space into the magnificent Forbidden City, the world's largest and most complete imperial palace complex. After authentic Chinese lunch, visit the Temple of Heaven where emperors prayed for good harvests. Complete your day browsing Panjiayuan Antique Market and consider our guide's recommendations for Peking duck dinner or evening entertainment.
Day 3: Great Wall Conquest & Olympic Legacy
Accommodation: Sunworld Hotel Beijing Wangfujing ★★★★
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Journey to Mutianyu Great Wall, renowned for its stunning scenery and excellent preservation. Choose to hike or take the cable car to explore this ancient marvel. After lunch near the Wall, return to the city visiting the exterior of Bird's Nest and Water Cube - the iconic venues of the 2008 Beijing Olympics. Evening options include foot massage, Houhai night bars, or Sanlitun bar street.
Day 4: Local Beijing & High-Speed Transition to Shanghai
Accommodation: SSAW Boutique Hotel Shanghai Bund ★★★★
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Experience authentic Beijing life with a rickshaw tour through ancient Hutong alleyways. Visit the magnificent Summer Palace, China's largest and best-preserved imperial garden, including a scenic boat ride on Kunming Lake. After lunch, board a high-speed train to Shanghai (approximately 5 hours), where your Shanghai guide will transfer you to your hotel.
Day 5: Shanghai Splendor - Tradition Meets Innovation
Accommodation: SSAW Boutique Hotel Shanghai Bund ★★★★
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Discover Shanghai's perfect blend of old and new starting with the classical Yuyuan Garden. Explore Shanghai Old Street and Nanjing Road for souvenirs and silk products. Stroll along the Bund, famous for its "Gallery of World Architecture." After lunch, visit the serene Jade Buddha Temple and admire the exterior of the iconic Oriental Pearl TV Tower from the Riverside Promenade. Consider evening acrobatic shows, particularly the acclaimed ERA performance.
Day 6: Futuristic Farewell - Shanghai Departure
Meals: Breakfast
Enjoy a leisurely morning before your airport transfer. We offer the unique option of experiencing Shanghai's Maglev train to Pudong Airport, or direct private transfer to suit your preferences.