Beijing, Xi'an & Shanghai Explore

Upon arrival at Beijing Capital Airport, your personal guide will greet you and escort you to your hotel in a comfortable, private vehicle. The drive takes about an hour, during which your guide will offer a fascinating introduction to Beijing, a city where ancient traditions meet modern energy. Once checked in, take some time to relax and recover from your journey—tomorrow, your adventure begins!

Begin your exploration of Beijing at Tiananmen Square, the political heart of modern China. From there, proceed to the 600-year-old Forbidden City, the imperial palace complex of the Ming and Qing Dynasties, where you can marvel at its architectural splendor and hear captivating tales of the royal families. After a traditional Chinese lunch, climb the artificial Jingshan Hill for panoramic views of the majestic palace complex and the central axis of this historic city.

Start your day like a local by visiting the Temple of Heaven, a serene park where Beijingers engage in morning exercises such as Tai Chi, dancing with swords, singing Peking opera, and practicing Chinese calligraphy using large brushes and water. After immersing yourself in these cultural activities, embark on a journey to the Mutianyu section of the Great Wall, approximately a 1.5-hour drive from the city center. This less-crowded area offers a cable car for a comfortable ascent and descent. As you walk along its ancient ramparts, you'll be awestruck by this remarkable structure and the surrounding picturesque landscape.

Spend the morning immersing yourself in Beijing's rich cultural heritage by exploring one of its few remaining hutongs—a traditional neighborhood characterized by narrow alleys lined with courtyard residences. Take a rickshaw ride through these historic lanes and visit a local family's home, where you'll have the opportunity to participate in a cooking demonstration and savor a homemade lunch. In the afternoon, board a high-speed train for Xi'an. The journey takes approximately 4 to 6 hours. Upon arrival, you'll be greeted and transferred to your hotel for check-in.

Begin your day with a visit to the Terracotta Army, one of China's most remarkable archaeological discoveries. These life-sized sculptures, created to accompany Emperor Qin Shi Huang in the afterlife, were unearthed in 1974 by local farmers. Each figure is unique, reflecting the diversity and sophistication of the emperor's army. In the afternoon, explore Xi'an's bustling Muslim Quarter, renowned for its vibrant markets and diverse culinary offerings. Here, you'll find the Great Mosque, one of China's oldest and largest mosques. Established in 742 AD during the Tang dynasty, the mosque showcases a harmonious blend of Chinese and Islamic architectural styles. The complex features four courtyards, each adorned with traditional Chinese gardens and pavilions, culminating in a grand prayer hall capable of accommodating over a thousand worshippers. Visitors can appreciate the intricate design and serene atmosphere, though entry to the prayer hall is reserved for worshippers. As you wander through the narrow lanes of the Muslim Quarter, you'll encounter a variety of local snacks and specialties, offering a delightful end to your day.

Begin your day with a visit to the Drum Tower, a historic structure that offers insights into traditional Chinese timekeeping and musical heritage. Experience a captivating performance of ancient drum music, immersing yourself in the cultural rhythms of China's past. En route to the airport, stop by the Hanyang Tomb, the joint mausoleum of Emperor Jingdi and his Empress Wang. This site is renowned for its extensive collection of miniature terracotta figurines, including soldiers, officials, animals, and daily life scenes, providing a vivid portrayal of Han Dynasty society. Afterward, take a 2.5-hour flight to Shanghai, where your local guide will meet you at the airport. Enjoy a private transfer to your hotel, where you'll check in and have the rest of the day at leisure to relax or begin exploring this vibrant metropolis.

Begin your day at The Bund, Shanghai's iconic waterfront promenade. This area is renowned for its impressive collection of colonial-era buildings, showcasing a variety of architectural styles such as Gothic, Baroque, Romanesque, Classicism, and Renaissance. Next, visit Yu Garden, a classical Chinese garden. Established in 1559 during the Ming Dynasty, it features traditional landscaping, pavilions, and ponds. Adjacent to the garden is a bustling bazaar. Here, you can explore a variety of shops, sample local snacks, and witness traditional crafts in workshops. Proceed to the Former French Concession, a district known for its tree-lined avenues and European-style architecture. This area offers a glimpse into Shanghai's colonial past and is perfect for a leisurely stroll. In the afternoon, immerse yourself in the vast collections of the Shanghai Museum. Located in People's Square, this museum houses a comprehensive range of Chinese art, including ancient bronzes, ceramics, calligraphy, and furniture. This itinerary provides a blend of Shanghai's historical, cultural, and artistic highlights, ensuring a memorable experience in the city.

Meet your driver at the appointed time for a private transfer to the airport. Bid farewell to China, taking with unforgettable memories of this vibrant and historical country. We look forward to welcoming you back one day to continue your exploration of the natural wonders and cultural treasures.