Imperial Legacy & Modern Marvels of China
Experience Ancient Grandeur and Contemporary Wonders on This Private Beijing-Shanghai Adventure
Tour Overview
China's Ultimate Urban Contrast Experience
This meticulously crafted 6-day journey showcases China's fascinating duality - from Beijing's imperial majesty to Shanghai's futuristic skyline. Travel between these world-class cities aboard China's renowned high-speed train, experiencing the perfect blend of ancient heritage and modern innovation. Your private tour ensures personalized attention while exploring UNESCO World Heritage sites, traditional markets, and architectural marvels that define China's past and future.
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Beijing Arrival - Imperial Capital Welcome
Accommodation: Sunworld Hotel Beijing Wangfujing ★★★★
Meals: No meals included
Begin your Chinese adventure in Beijing, where ancient history meets modern ambition. Upon arrival at Beijing airport, your private guide will greet you and transfer you to your centrally located hotel. After check-in, the remainder of your day is free to recover from your journey or take an initial exploratory stroll through the Wangfujing area, known for its vibrant shopping and street food scene.
Day 2: Beijing's Imperial Heart - Forbidden City & Temple of Heaven
Accommodation: Sunworld Hotel Beijing Wangfujing ★★★★
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Morning (09:00-12:30): Your exploration begins at Tiananmen Square, the world's largest public square, before entering the magnificent Forbidden City. Wander through this sprawling imperial palace complex that served Chinese emperors for nearly 500 years. Continue to Jingshan Park for breathtaking panoramic views of the Forbidden City from Coal Hill's summit.
Lunch (12:30-14:00): Savor authentic Chinese cuisine at Shi Yuan Restaurant, renowned for its braised eggplant, vegetable balls, and diced chicken with walnuts in soya sauce.
Afternoon (14:00-17:30): Visit the Temple of Heaven, where emperors once prayed for abundant harvests. This architectural masterpiece represents China's largest existing sacrificial structure. Later, browse Panjiayuan Antique Market and Pearl Market for unique souvenirs before returning to your hotel. En route, consult your guide about evening options including Peking duck dinners or cultural performances.
Day 3: Great Wall Majesty & Olympic Legacy
Accommodation: Sunworld Hotel Beijing Wangfujing ★★★★
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Morning (08:00-12:30): Journey to Mutianyu Great Wall, a beautifully restored section popular among international visitors. Choose to hike this ancient marvel or take the cable car for spectacular views of the wall snaking through lush mountains.
Lunch (12:30-13:30): Enjoy local vegetarian specialties at Xiaolongpu Restaurant, featuring dishes like fried seasonal vegetables, dry-fried beans, and sweet corn cake.
Afternoon (13:30-17:30): Return to Beijing to witness the architectural wonders of the 2008 Olympics - the iconic Bird's Nest stadium and Water Cube. Complete your day with a traditional Chinese tea ceremony at a local tea house. Your guide can arrange evening activities including foot massages, Houhai lake bars, or Sanlitun's vibrant nightlife.
Day 4: Traditional Beijing & High-Speed Transition to Shanghai
Accommodation: Sunrise on the Bund Hotel ★★★★
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Morning (09:30-11:30): After checking out, experience traditional Beijing life with a rickshaw tour through the city's ancient hutongs. These narrow alleyways reveal the authentic lifestyle and architecture of old Beijing.
Mid-day (11:30-14:30): Explore the Summer Palace, China's largest and best-preserved imperial garden. Enjoy a scenic boat ride on Kunming Lake before lunch at Xiangyangtun Restaurant, featuring traditional opera performances.
Afternoon: Transfer to Beijing railway station for your 5.5-hour high-speed train journey to Shanghai. Experience China's modern transportation infrastructure as you travel at speeds up to 300 km/h. Upon arrival, your Shanghai guide will meet you and transfer you to your Bund-area hotel.
Day 5: Shanghai Contrasts - Ancient Temples & Modern Skylines
Accommodation: Sunrise on the Bund Hotel ★★★★
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Morning (09:00-12:30): Begin at Jade Buddha Temple, home to priceless Buddhist statues including a magnificent seated Buddha encrusted with jewels. Continue to the Riverside Promenade for exterior views of the iconic Oriental Pearl TV Tower, symbolizing Shanghai's futuristic ambition.
Lunch (12:30-13:30): Sample Shanghai's famous dim sum and steamed buns, experiencing the city's culinary traditions.
Afternoon (13:30-17:30): Discover Yuyuan Garden, a classical Chinese garden oasis in the city center. Explore Shanghai Old Street and Nanjing Road, China's earliest commercial street, perfect for souvenir hunting and silk purchases. Conclude with a leisurely walk along the Bund, admiring the spectacular "Gallery of World Architecture" that lines Huangpu River.
Evening: Your guide can arrange tickets for the spectacular ERA acrobatic show, one of Shanghai's most popular evening entertainments.
Day 6: Shanghai Departure - Modern Marvels Farewell
Meals: Breakfast
Enjoy a leisurely morning before your airport transfer. For an additional futuristic experience, we can arrange Maglev train transportation to Pudong Airport, reaching speeds of 430 km/h. Alternatively, private vehicle transfer is available. Your China contrast journey concludes as you depart with memories of imperial grandeur and modern marvels.
Important Notes
High-Speed Train Information
This itinerary includes second-class high-speed train seats. Upgrades to business or first class are available upon request. Please note that high-speed trains require passengers to manage their own luggage throughout the journey, as checked baggage service is not available.