Cultural Journey Through Beijing, Xi'an & Shanghai
A Small-Group Journey Through China's Ancient Capitals & Modern Metropolis
Itinerary Overview
This carefully crafted 8-day small group tour weaves together China's most iconic destinations, offering first-time visitors an immersive experience through the nation's rich history and rapid modernization. Travel with like-minded explorers to uncover Beijing's imperial grandeur, Xi'an's archaeological wonders, and Shanghai's dazzling skyline in a single, seamless journey.
Detailed Daily Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in China's Imperial Capital
Beijing Arrival & Airport Transfer
Meals: No Meals | Accommodation: 4-Star Hotel in Beijing
Your Oriental adventure begins upon arrival at Beijing Capital International Airport, where our representative will greet you and facilitate your transfer to the hotel. The remainder of the day is yours to recover from your journey and anticipate the wonders ahead.
Important Notes: - Standard airport transfers are provided from Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK) - Transfers from Beijing Daxing International Airport (PKX) incur a supplemental fee - Private transfers are available at additional cost
Day 2: Beijing's Imperial Heart
Temple of Heaven, Hutong Exploration & Forbidden City
Meals: Hotel Breakfast, A La Carte Chinese Lunch | Accommodation: 4-Star Hotel in Beijing
Today immerses you in Beijing's cultural core. Begin at the magnificent Temple of Heaven, where emperors once prayed for abundant harvests. Observe local residents practicing tai chi and other morning rituals in the surrounding park.
Experience traditional Beijing life through a rickshaw tour of the ancient Hutongs, visiting a local family residence. Participate in a Peking opera facial mask painting workshop, creating your own theatrical souvenir.
After an authentic Chinese lunch, proceed to Tian'anmen Square, the world's largest public square, before entering the magnificent Forbidden City. Explore the extensive palace complex that served Chinese emperors for nearly 500 years, marveling at its architectural brilliance and imperial treasures.
Evening Option: Enhance your cultural experience with an optional Kung Fu show or acrobatic performance.
Day 3: The Great Wall Experience
Mutianyu Great Wall & Olympic Legacy
Meals: Hotel Breakfast, A La Carte Lunch | Accommodation: 4-Star Hotel in Beijing
Journey to one of China's most iconic sections of the Great Wall at Mutianyu. This less-crowded segment winds dramatically through mountainous terrain, offering breathtaking views and superb photo opportunities. Your experience includes round-trip cable car access for comfortable ascent and descent.
Enjoy lunch at a restaurant near the Great Wall before returning to Beijing. En route, stop for photographs at the exterior of the Bird's Nest Stadium and Water Cube, iconic venues from the 2008 Olympics that represent China's modern architectural ambition.
Dining Suggestion: Your guide can recommend authentic Peking duck restaurants for dinner.
Day 4: Royal Gardens & High-Speed Transition
Summer Palace & Bullet Train to Xi'an
Meals: Hotel Breakfast, A La Carte Lunch | Accommodation: 4-Star Hotel in Xi'an
Check out from your Beijing hotel and visit the exquisite Summer Palace, China's largest and best-preserved imperial garden. Stroll along the remarkable Long Corridor adorned with intricate paintings, and enjoy the serene beauty of Kunming Lake and Longevity Hill.
After lunch, experience China's modern transportation marvel—the high-speed bullet train—on your 5-hour journey to Xi'an. Upon arrival, our local guide will transfer you to your hotel, where you have the evening at leisure.
Day 5: Warriors & Ancient Walls
Terracotta Army & Muslim Quarter Discovery
Meals: Hotel Breakfast, A La Carte Lunch | Accommodation: 4-Star Hotel in Xi'an
Begin at Xi'an's remarkably preserved Ancient City Wall, where you can optionally cycle along the ramparts for a unique perspective of the old city.
Journey to the legendary Terracotta Warriors, stopping en route at a pottery workshop in a traditional cave dwelling. Learn about the creation of these remarkable figures and try your hand at crafting a miniature warrior.
After lunch near the archaeological site, spend the afternoon exploring the three excavation pits containing thousands of life-sized terracotta soldiers, horses, and chariots arranged in battle formation—one of the most significant archaeological discoveries of the 20th century.
Return to the city center to visit Bell Tower Square and explore the vibrant Muslim Quarter, where you can sample local street food and shop for souvenirs in this historic neighborhood.
Evening Option: Consider the Tang Dynasty Dance Show for cultural entertainment.
Day 6: Traditional Arts & Modern Marvels
Gao's Courtyard & Departure for Shanghai
Meals: Hotel Breakfast, A La Carte Lunch | Accommodation: 4-Star Hotel in Shanghai
After checking out from your hotel, visit Gao's Courtyard to appreciate traditional Chinese architecture and learn about the ancient art of shadow puppetry.
Continue to the North Square of the Big Wild Goose Pagoda, where you might witness the spectacular musical fountain performance (subject to scheduling).
Board your flight to Shanghai, China's dazzling commercial hub, where upon arrival you'll be transferred to your hotel.
Day 7: Shanghai Contrasts
Classic Gardens & Sky-High Vistas
Meals: Hotel Breakfast, A La Carte Lunch | Accommodation: 4-Star Hotel in Shanghai
Discover Shanghai's fascinating contrasts, beginning with the traditional Shikumen stone-gate houses and their labyrinthine alleyways that reveal the city's architectural heritage.
Visit the classical Yuyuan Garden, a 400-year-old oasis of peace in the bustling city, then explore the adjacent Yuyuan Bazaar (Chenghuangmiao Old Street) with its traditional shops and snack stalls.
After lunch, ascend the iconic Oriental Pearl TV Tower for panoramic city views from its observation sphere. Visit the Shanghai History Museum at the tower's base to understand the city's remarkable transformation.
Conclude your day at the legendary Bund waterfront, admiring the spectacular contrast between historic colonial architecture on one side and Pudong's futuristic skyline on the other, beautifully illuminated after dark.
Day 8: Farewell to China
Shanghai Departure
Meals: Breakfast
Your immersive journey through China concludes with a transfer to Shanghai Pudong International Airport for your homebound flight, carrying memories of ancient wonders and modern marvels.
Note: Standard airport transfers are shared; private transfers available at additional cost.