Leshan Cultural Immersion: UNESCO Buddha & Tea Traditions
A Variant Itinerary Exploring China's Imperial Legacy
Day 1: Arrival in Beijing - Gateway to Imperial China
Arrival & Culinary Introduction Upon your arrival at Beijing airport, our guide will warmly welcome you and transfer you to your selected hotel. After settling in, we recommend experiencing authentic Beijing cuisine at Made in China restaurant within the Grand Hyatt Hotel. Witness chefs prepare traditional dishes through the open-style kitchen while savoring specialties like Peking Roast Duck, Old Beijing Cha Chiang Mein Noodles, and the exquisite Goose Liver with plum jam.
Day 2: Beijing's Imperial Heart
Tiananmen Square & Forbidden City Exploration Begin your day at the symbolic Tiananmen Square before entering the magnificent Forbidden City. Discover the imperial residences where Chinese emperors ruled for over 500 years, including the remarkable Treasure Gallery and Hall of Clocks. Learn about ancient bronze casting techniques used to create the massive lion statues guarding the Gate of Supreme Harmony.
Imperial Dining Experience Enjoy an extraordinary royal lunch at Fangshan Restaurant in Beihai Park, where Qing Dynasty recipes are faithfully recreated and served by staff in traditional attire.
Temple of Heaven Visit Conclude your day at the Temple of Heaven, where emperors performed sacred ceremonies to worship Heaven and pray for abundant harvests.
Day 3: Royal Gardens & Traditional Lanes
Summer Palace Discovery Explore China's grandest extant royal garden, featuring the natural beauty of Longevity Hill and Kunming Lake complemented by exquisite man-made structures. Enjoy a scenic boat trip across the lake.
Architectural Marvels & Hutong Life Visit the egg-shaped National Centre for the Performing Arts, then immerse yourself in Beijing's traditional culture with a rickshaw ride through the historic Hutong alleys. Optional evening relaxation at Buffalo restaurant in Shichahai area.
Day 4: Water Town & Great Wall Preparation
Gubei Water Town Retreat Journey to the picturesque Gubei Water Town nestled against the Simatai Great Wall. After hotel check-in, explore the quaint town's charming architecture and waterways. Experience the magical evening atmosphere when lanterns illuminate the town and the Great Wall becomes outlined against the night sky.
Day 5: Great Wall Adventure & Journey to Xi'an
Simatai Great Wall Expedition Explore the wild, less-renovated Simatai section of the Great Wall. Optional early morning departure (05:00-06:00) to witness spectacular sunrise views from the beacon towers.
Transition to Ancient Capital After your Great Wall experience, transfer to Beijing airport for your flight to Xi'an, where our local team will welcome you and transfer you to your hotel.
Day 6: Terracotta Warriors & Tang Dynasty Splendor
Terracotta Army Museum Discover the incredible 2,200-year-old Terracotta Army, Emperor Qin Shi Huang's extraordinary funeral complex featuring thousands of life-sized soldiers, horses, and chariots arranged in battle formation.
City Wall & Cultural Sites Experience Xi'an's ancient City Wall by bike or battery car, then visit the historic Small Wild Goose Pagoda to appreciate Buddhist architecture and culture.
Tang Dynasty Evening Extravaganza Conclude your day with an imperial dinner accompanied by the magnificent Tang Dynasty Music and Dance Performance, recreating the splendor of China's golden age.
Day 7: Xi'an's Cultural Heritage & Departure
Historical Immersion Visit the renowned Provincial History Museum to deepen your understanding of China's extensive history, followed by exploration of the Great Mosque and vibrant Muslim Quarter.
Farewell from Ancient China Your imperial journey concludes with airport transfer and assistance with check-in procedures, carrying with you memories of China's magnificent historical legacy.