Xi'an & Chengdu: Pandas & Imperial Legacies
Experience the Perfect Blend of Modern Metropolis and Imperial History
Day 1: Arrival in Shanghai - The Oriental Paris
Airport Transfer and Leisure Time
Meals: No meals
Accommodation: In Shanghai
Arrive in Shanghai, known as the Paris of the Oriental, where you'll be greeted at the airport and transferred to your hotel. The remainder of the day is yours to relax and anticipate the adventures ahead in China's largest metropolis.
Day 2: Shanghai Urban Exploration
Spiritual Sites, Classical Gardens, and Modern Marvels
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: In Shanghai
Begin your full-day Shanghai discovery at the serene Jade Buddha Temple, followed by the Shanghai Silk Museum. Experience classical Chinese architecture at Yuyuan Garden and explore the adjacent old street. Ascend the iconic Oriental Pearl TV Tower for breathtaking panoramic views of the city. Conclude your day with a stroll along the historic Bund waterfront and Nanjing Road, China's premier shopping street. Optional acrobatics show available for evening entertainment.
Day 3: Water Town Charm & Journey to Ancient Capital
Zhujiajiao Water Town Experience and Transfer to Nanjing
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: In Nanjing
Morning departure to Zhujiajiao Water Town, where ancient bridges span tranquil streams, willow trees shade peaceful waterways, and traditional courtyard houses create an atmosphere of timeless tranquility. Enjoy a scenic boat ride through the waterways before lunch at a local restaurant. In the afternoon, transfer to Nanjing via high-speed train, arriving in the historic capital that has witnessed multiple Chinese dynasties.
Day 4: Nanjing Imperial Heritage
Purple Mountain Exploration and Confucian Culture
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: In Nanjing
Discover Nanjing's imperial legacy starting at Zijin Mountain (Purple Mountain), home to numerous historical sites. Visit the magnificent Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum, an architectural masterpiece of white granite and blue tiles. Explore the luxurious Meiling Palace, renowned as the "First Villa in the Far East." Walk the Sacred Way to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Xiaoling Mausoleum of Ming Dynasty. Conclude at Confucius Temple and the vibrant Qinhuai River Scenery Belt, where an evening boat ride showcases spectacular illuminated ancient architecture.
Day 5: Nanjing's Ancient Fortifications and Spiritual Mountains
City Walls and Buddhist Treasures
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Morning visit to the monumental Gate of China and the Ancient City Wall, the world's longest and best-preserved ancient fortification. Journey to Niushoushan Forest Park, a Buddhist sanctuary featuring the stunning Usnisa Palace housing Buddha's parietal relic. Explore the iconic Foding Temple and pagoda amidst serene natural surroundings. After lunch, transfer to airport or railway station for departure.