Huashan Odyssey: China's Precipitous Peak
A Seamless Exploration from Imperial Grandeur to Tibetan Spirituality
Journey Overview
Cultural Immersion Across Four Iconic Destinations
This meticulously crafted 11-day private tour takes you through China's most significant historical and cultural landmarks, culminating in the spiritual heart of Tibet. Experience the perfect blend of ancient civilizations, imperial grandeur, and Himalayan mysticism with hand-picked accommodations, worry-free Tibet permit arrangements, and expert local guidance throughout your journey.
Detailed Itinerary
Days 1-4: Imperial Beijing - Where Ancient Dynasties Come Alive
Day 1: Arrival in China's Capital
Accommodation: Citadines Ritan Service Apartment ★★★★
Meals: No meals included
Arrive at Beijing Capital International Airport where your personal guide greets you. Transfer to your centrally located hotel. The remainder of the day is yours to recover from travel fatigue and begin absorbing the capital's vibrant atmosphere.
Day 2: Imperial Majesty & Ancient Traditions
Accommodation: Citadines Ritan Service Apartment ★★★★
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Morning (09:00-12:30): Begin at Tiananmen Square, then explore the magnificent Forbidden City - the world's largest imperial palace complex. Climb Jingshan Park for breathtaking panoramic views of the palace grounds.
Afternoon (14:00-16:30): Visit the Temple of Heaven where emperors prayed for abundant harvests. Explore Panjiayuan Antique Market for unique souvenirs.
Evening: Your guide can recommend authentic Peking duck restaurants and evening entertainment options.
Day 3: Great Wall Conquest & Olympic Legacy
Accommodation: Citadines Ritan Service Apartment ★★★★
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Morning (08:30-12:30): Journey to Mutianyu Great Wall, renowned for its stunning scenery and excellent preservation. Choose to hike or take the cable car for equally magnificent views.
Afternoon (13:30-16:30): Return to Beijing with a stop at Olympic Park to photograph the iconic Bird's Nest and Water Cube exteriors.
Evening: Optional traditional foot massage or exploration of Sanlitun Bar Street.
Day 4: Local Life & Imperial Gardens
Accommodation: Atour Hotel Xian Nanmen ★★★★
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Morning (10:00-11:30): Experience traditional Beijing life with a rickshaw tour through ancient hutongs.
Late Morning (11:30-14:30): Explore the magnificent Summer Palace, China's largest imperial garden, including a scenic boat ride on Kunming Lake.
Afternoon: Board a high-speed train to Xian (approximately 5 hours). Your Xian guide meets you upon arrival and transfers you to your hotel.
Days 5-6: Ancient Xian - Where Terra Cotta Warriors Stand Guard
Day 5: Warriors & City Walls
Accommodation: Atour Hotel Xian Nanmen ★★★★
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Morning (09:30-12:30): Discover the incredible Terracotta Warriors Museum, featuring thousands of life-sized soldiers in battle formation. Visit a pottery factory to witness traditional craftsmanship.
Afternoon (14:00-17:00): Walk along the ancient Xian City Wall, with optional bicycle riding. Explore the vibrant Muslim Quarter with its exotic food stalls and souvenir shops.
Evening: Optional Tang Dynasty Show with traditional dinner.
Day 6: Journey to the Rooftop of the World
Accommodation: Lhasa Hotel ★★★★
Meals: Breakfast
Morning flight to Lhasa. Upon arrival, your Tibetan guide transfers you to your hotel. The afternoon is dedicated to acclimatization to the high altitude. Light walking around your hotel area is recommended.
Days 7-9: Spiritual Lhasa - Himalayan Sanctuary
Day 7: Potala Palace & Spiritual Heart
Accommodation: Lhasa Hotel ★★★★
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Important Note: Please remove hats when entering monasteries and follow clockwise direction for visiting. No smoking, touching Buddha statues, or turning scriptures.
Morning (09:30-12:30): Explore the magnificent Potala Palace, former winter residence of Dalai Lamas. Visit the opposite hill for panoramic photography.
Afternoon (13:30-16:30): Discover Jokhang Monastery, Tibet's spiritual heart, followed by cultural immersion at Barkhor Street pilgrimage circuit.
Day 8: Monastery Enlightenment
Accommodation: Lhasa Hotel ★★★★
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Morning (09:30-12:30): Visit Drepung Monastery, once the world's largest monastery, followed by Norbulingka Park, the traditional summer palace.
Afternoon (13:30-16:30): Witness philosophical debates among monks at Sera Monastery, a unique Tibetan Buddhist practice.
Day 9: Himalayan Farewell to Modern Metropolis
Accommodation: Sunrise On The Bund Hotel ★★★★
Meals: Breakfast
Morning transfer to Lhasa Airport for your flight to Shanghai (approximately 6 hours). Your Shanghai guide meets you upon arrival and transfers you to your hotel.
Days 10-11: Modern Shanghai - Where Tradition Meets Tomorrow
Day 10: Urban Exploration & Colonial Heritage
Accommodation: Sunrise On The Bund Hotel ★★★★
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Morning (09:30-12:30): Visit Jade Buddha Temple, home to precious jade Buddha statues. Walk along Riverside Promenade with views of Oriental Pearl TV Tower.
Afternoon (13:30-16:30): Explore classical Yuyuan Garden, shop at Shanghai Old Street and Nanjing Road, then stroll along the Bund's iconic colonial architecture.
Evening: Optional ERA Acrobatic Show, Shanghai's premier evening entertainment.
Day 11: Departure with Lasting Memories
Meals: Breakfast
Enjoy a leisurely morning before transfer to Pudong Airport. Optional Maglev train experience (world's fastest commercial train) or direct private transfer to airport.
Service Ends