China's Imperial Legacy & Natural Wonders
A Curated Exploration of Beijing, Xi'an, and Shanghai's Cultural Treasures
Day 1: Arrival in Beijing
Your flight arrives in China's capital city today. Our private guide and driver will welcome you at the airport arrival hall and escort you to your pre-booked hotel. The remainder of the day is yours to recover from jet lag and prepare for your upcoming exploration of China's most iconic destinations.
Day 2: Imperial Beijing - Forbidden City & Temple of Heaven
- Morning Exploration: Begin at Tian'anmen Square, the world's largest urban square, before entering the magnificent Forbidden City - the world's largest imperial palace complex
- Cultural Lunch: Enjoy a specially arranged a la carte welcome lunch featuring authentic Peking Roast Duck at a traditional courtyard restaurant
- Afternoon Heritage: Visit Yonghe Temple, Beijing's most important Tibetan Buddhist temple, followed by the Temple of Heaven where emperors performed heavenly worship ceremonies
Day 3: Great Wall Adventure & Hutong Culture
- Great Wall Experience: Journey to Mutianyu Great Wall with round-trip cable car access for breathtaking views and photography opportunities
- Modern Landmark: Photo stop at the Bird's Nest Olympic Stadium
- Traditional Beijing: Rickshaw ride through ancient Hutong alleys followed by a visit to a local family's traditional courtyard home
Day 4: Imperial Gardens & High-Speed to Xi'an
- Summer Palace: Explore China's largest and best-preserved imperial garden with its beautiful Kunming Lake and Longevity Hill
- Modern Travel: Experience China's high-speed train system on your journey to Xi'an (approximately 4.5-5.5 hours)
- Evening Arrival: Your Xi'an guide meets you at the station and transfers you to your hotel
Day 5: Terracotta Warriors & Tang Dynasty Heritage
- Terracotta Army: Full morning exploring the incredible underground army of Emperor Qin Shi Huang, including newly opened exhibition halls
- Exclusive Access: Visit the home of Mr. Yang Zhifa, the discoverer of the Terracotta Army
- Hands-On Experience: Create your own mini terracotta warrior at a local workshop
- Cultural Sites: Visit Giant Wild Goose Pagoda and explore the vibrant Great Tang All Day Mall
Day 6: Ancient City Walls & Culinary Xi'an
- Local Life: Morning visit to City Wall Park to observe and participate in local activities
- Historic Defense: Walk or cycle on the ancient City Wall overlooking both old and new Xi'an
- Cultural Fusion: Visit the Great Mosque blending Chinese and Islamic architecture
- Food Exploration: Sample authentic Xi'an snacks in the bustling Muslim Quarter before flying to Shanghai
Day 7: Shanghai - Tradition Meets Modernity
- Museum & Gardens: Visit the renowned Shanghai Museum and the classical Yu Garden with its adjacent bazaar
- Farewell Lunch: Enjoy an a la carte farewell lunch featuring Shanghai and Cantonese cuisines
- River Perspective: Huangpu River cruise showcasing Shanghai's spectacular skyline
- Architectural Walk: Stroll along the Bund to admire colonial-era buildings
- Creative Quarter: Explore Tianzifang's artsy lanes and converted traditional housing
Day 8: Shanghai Departure
According to your flight schedule, our guide and driver will transfer you to the airport for your journey home. For those with later flights, we can provide suggestions for further exploration of Shanghai or nearby water towns.