Imperial Capitals & Panda Paradise in China
Rediscover Ancient Kingdoms and Modern Marvels on a Small-Group Adventure
Journey Overview
Cultural Immersion Across Four Legendary Cities
This meticulously crafted 11-day small-group tour unveils China's profound history and vibrant culture through its most iconic destinations. From Beijing's imperial grandeur to Xi'an's ancient warriors, Chengdu's panda sanctuary to Shanghai's futuristic skyline, experience the authentic essence of China while forging connections with fellow culture enthusiasts.
Detailed Itinerary
Days 1-4: Beijing - Imperial Splendor and Great Wall Wonders
Day 1: Arrival in China's Capital
Accommodation: 4-Star Hotel in Beijing
Meals: No meals included
Arrive at Beijing Capital International Airport where our driver welcomes you with a TCT signboard. Transfer to your hotel for check-in and leisure time to recover from your journey.
Day 2: Imperial Heart of Beijing
Accommodation: 4-Star Hotel in Beijing
Meals: Hotel breakfast, authentic Chinese lunch
Morning visit to the Temple of Heaven to witness local seniors practicing tai chi and traditional exercises. Experience Beijing's ancient alleyways via rickshaw through the Hutongs with a local family visit. Participate in Peking opera facial mask painting before enjoying a curated Chinese lunch. Explore Tian'anmen Square, then immerse in the magnificent Forbidden City's palace halls and royal gardens for over two hours.
Day 3: Great Wall Adventure
Accommodation: 4-Star Hotel in Beijing
Meals: Hotel breakfast, a la carte lunch
Full-day excursion to Mutianyu Great Wall with round-trip cable car included. This less-crowded section offers breathtaking views and excellent photography opportunities. Enjoy lunch at the foot of the wall before returning to Beijing for exterior photos of the Bird's Nest and Water Cube Olympic venues.
Day 4: Royal Gardens & High-Speed to Xi'an
Accommodation: 4-Star Hotel in Xi'an
Meals: Hotel breakfast, a la carte lunch
Morning exploration of the Summer Palace, China's largest imperial garden featuring Kunming Lake and the magnificent Long Corridor. After lunch, board a high-speed train (second class) for the scenic 5.5-hour journey to ancient Xi'an. Transfer to hotel upon arrival.
Days 5-6: Xi'an - Warriors and Ancient Capital
Day 5: Terracotta Army Discovery
Accommodation: 4-Star Hotel in Xi'an
Meals: Hotel breakfast, a la carte lunch
Morning bicycle ride optional on the ancient City Wall. Visit a pottery workshop in cave dwellings to create miniature terracotta warriors. After lunch, explore the legendary Terracotta Warriors Museum with its thousands of life-sized soldiers. Evening exploration of Bell Tower Square and the vibrant Muslim Quarter for local snacks and shopping.
Day 6: Cultural Heritage & Journey to Chengdu
Accommodation: 4-Star Hotel in Chengdu
Meals: Hotel breakfast, a la carte lunch
Morning visit to Gao's Courtyard for traditional shadow puppetry表演 and ancient residence architecture. Witness the magnificent music fountain show at Big Wild Goose Pagoda North Plaza. Afternoon high-speed train (4 hours) to Chengdu, arriving in the evening for hotel check-in.
Days 7-8: Chengdu - Pandas and Sichuan Culture
Day 7: Panda Sanctuary & Giant Buddha
Accommodation: 4-Star Hotel in Chengdu
Meals: Hotel breakfast, a la carte lunch
Morning visit to Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding to observe these iconic creatures in habitat-like environments. Afternoon excursion to Leshan Giant Buddha, descending from head to toe along the cliffside paths (boat alternative available). Evening free or optional Sichuan opera performance.
Day 8: Authentic Chengdu Life
Accommodation: 4-Star Hotel in Chengdu
Meals: Hotel breakfast, authentic Sichuan lunch
Experience local lifestyle at People's Park, enjoying tea at a traditional tea house while observing daily activities. Visit Wuhou Temple, the largest Three Kingdoms period museum. Stroll through adjacent Jinli Ancient Street with its traditional architecture and local crafts.
Days 9-11: Shanghai - Modern Metropolis
Day 9: Flight to Shanghai
Accommodation: 4-Star Hotel in Shanghai
Meals: Hotel breakfast
Leisurely morning with optional visits to Jinsha Site Museum, Kuanzhai Alley's ancient courtyards, or authentic Sichuan hotpot lunch. Afternoon flight to Shanghai with airport transfer and hotel check-in.
Day 10: Shanghai Past and Present
Accommodation: 4-Star Hotel in Shanghai
Meals: Hotel breakfast, a la carte lunch
Morning exploration of Shikumen stone-gate houses and local alley life. Visit classical Yuyuan Garden and bustling Chenghuangmiao Old Street. Afternoon ascent of the Oriental Pearl TV Tower for panoramic city views and exploration of Shanghai History Museum. Evening illumination tour of the Bund's colonial architecture against Pudong's futuristic skyline.
Day 11: Farewell to China
Meals: Hotel breakfast
Transfer to Shanghai Pudong International Airport for departure, concluding your comprehensive Chinese cultural adventure.