China Golden Cities Explorer - Private - 8 Days

Your adventure in China kicks off upon your arrival in Beijing. Here, a private driver will welcome you at the airport, ready to take you to your centrally located accommodation.

Discover the dynamic blend of ancient history and modern development in China's capital city, which boasts iconic landmarks, vibrant markets, and a rich cultural tapestry. Once settled in, you can choose to explore Beijing at your leisure or unwind at the hotel after your journey.

We will start the day by meeting our guide in the hotel lobby. Our first stop is the iconic Tian’anmen Square, one of the largest public squares in the world, noted for its historical significance. We will then proceed to the Forbidden City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that served as the imperial palace for centuries.

Afterwards, we'll hike up to Jingshan Park for a panoramic view of the Forbidden City from Coal Hill. A traditional Chinese lunch awaits us before we drive to the Temple of Heaven, a masterpiece of Chinese architecture and spirituality.

Later, enjoy some time browsing the Panjiayuan Antique Market, known for its vibrant collection of curios and collectibles, and visit a local tea store to explore China's rich tea culture.

As we return to your hotel, you can discuss evening plans with your guide; perhaps consider a night show or a classic Peking duck dinner.

Today, we'll explore the iconic Great Wall. We drive to the Mutianyu section, where you can either hike or take the cable car to enjoy the stunning vistas. Afterwards, a traditional Chinese lunch awaits at a local restaurant. On our return to the city, we will visit a jade carving factory to witness the art of jade craftsmanship.

We'll also pause for photos at the Bird's Nest and Water Cube, two architectural marvels from the 2008 Olympics, before heading back to your hotel.

Begin your day with a leisurely morning as we pack up and check out. Our first stop is the Drum Tower area, where we embark on a relaxing Hutong tour by rickshaw—a perfect way to immerse ourselves in Beijing's local lifestyle.

Next, we visit the Summer Palace, renowned as China's largest and best-preserved imperial garden. Here, you'll enjoy a boat ride on Kunming Lake, offering serene views of this historic landscape.

After a hearty Chinese lunch nearby, we board a high-speed train to Xi'an. Upon arrival, a local guide will assist with your transfer to the Xi'an hotel. Spend the night in Xi'an, ready to explore more of its rich history.

In the morning, we’ll collect you and head to the remarkable Terracotta Warriors, an iconic UNESCO World Heritage site near Xi’an. Here, marvel at the thousands of life-sized figures crafted over 2,200 years ago to protect Emperor Qin Shi Huang in the afterlife.

After this impressive visit, participate in a pottery workshop to learn the craft of creating your own figurine. A traditional Chinese lunch will be provided nearby.

In the afternoon, we’ll visit the Bell Tower, a striking example of Ming Dynasty architecture and the largest and best-preserved of its kind in China. Afterwards, explore Gao's Courtyard, a historic residence where you can delve into local culture through paper-cutting and shadow puppetry exhibits.

Next, we will stroll through the bustling Muslim Quarter, offering you the opportunity for shopping and sampling a variety of local snacks.

We will then drive you back to your hotel. In the evening, you are highly encouraged to attend the Tang Dynasty Show, a vibrant performance celebrating Xi’an’s illustrious past.

Begin your day by packing up and checking out of your accommodation. We will then embark on a leisurely tour of the Ancient City Wall, a remarkable relic of Xi'an's history, offering panoramic views of the city. Next, we visit the Wild Goose Pagoda and its bustling North Square, a cultural hub featuring impressive fountains.

After a lunch break, we head towards Xi'an airport, stopping en route at the Hanyang Mausoleum, China's largest museum in terms of floor space. Here you will explore fascinating exhibits that offer a glimpse into the Han Dynasty's legacy.

We then fly to Shanghai, where a local guide will facilitate your transfer to the hotel. Enjoy a restful overnight stay in Shanghai.

In the morning, we will visit the Jade Buddha Temple, known for its exquisite jade Buddha statues. We'll then head to the Riverside Promenade for a stroll and view the exterior of the iconic Oriental Pearl TV Tower. Our next stop is a silk museum, where we will learn about the history and production of Chinese silk. Lunch will be served at a local Chinese restaurant along the way.

In the afternoon, we will explore Yuyuan Garden, a beautiful example of traditional Chinese garden design located in Shanghai’s bustling downtown. Following this, enjoy a leisurely walk along the historic Bund, with its stunning colonial architecture and views of the modern city skyline.

In the evening, you might consider attending the ERA Acrobatic Show, a highly acclaimed spectacle and one of Shanghai’s premier evening entertainments. We will return to our hotel for an overnight stay in Shanghai.

Enjoy a day at your leisure before we arrange your transfer to the airport for your return flight. If you’re interested, you can experience the Maglev train ride to Pudong Airport, renowned for being one of the fastest in the world. Alternatively, you may opt for a direct drive to the airport. Thank you for choosing to travel with us, and safe travels until next time.