Majestic China From Great Wall to Shanghai - 7 Days

Upon arriving in Beijing, we will whisk you away to your hotel, setting the stage for your adventure in China. As evening draws near, we invite you to join us on a trip to Wangfujing Street. Renowned for its vibrant atmosphere, this bustling pedestrian avenue features an array of shops and restaurants, offering a perfect introduction to the city's lively spirit. A delicious dinner is included before we return to the hotel for some rest in preparation for the upcoming days of exploration. Please note: This tour may have travellers joining or departing at various points along the route, meaning group composition can change during the tour. Please also be aware that depending on group composition, guiding may be in additional languages as well as English.

Today, we embark on an unforgettable journey to the iconic Great Wall of China at the Mutianyu section. This remarkable architectural wonder spans over 2,000 years of history, seamlessly merging with the stunning mountain landscape. We'll ascend and descend via cable car, offering splendid views of this legendary structure.

On our return to Beijing, we visit the lively 798 Art District. Once a military factory, it has now transformed into a vibrant centre for contemporary art, housing a variety of galleries, studios, and creative spaces.

Our next stop is the Temple of Heaven, one of China's largest and most significant sacred complexes, recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here, emperors once prayed for abundant harvests—this impressive architectural gem is steeped in history.

Before heading back to the hotel, we'll unwind with a soothing foot massage and engage in a Tai Chi class, offering you a taste of traditional Chinese culture's balance and harmony.

To cap off our day, we’ll indulge in a lacquered duck dinner, a renowned local speciality that promises to leave a lasting impression.

Today promises another fascinating exploration of Beijing, the vibrant heart of China. Our full-day tour will take us through some of the city's most renowned sites. We will begin with a visit to the Great Chinese Imperial Palace, commonly known as the Forbidden City. This awe-inspiring architectural triumph served as the residence of 24 emperors across nearly five centuries. Following this, we'll wander through Jingshan Park, which houses Coal Hill—one of Beijing's best-preserved imperial gardens. From its summit, if the weather allows, we can admire panoramic views of the Forbidden City.

Our journey continues as we make our way to Tiananmen Square, one of the largest public squares globally, where the imposing Great National Theatre, also called the Beijing Opera House, is visible. A tasty lunch awaits us before we proceed to the magnificent Summer Palace, a serene former retreat of the Qing Dynasty, celebrated for its beautifully manicured gardens and tranquil lakes.

This afternoon, we will delve into traditional Beijing life with a tricycle tour of the historic Hutong neighbourhoods. These narrow lanes offer a glimpse of local culture, where you can explore unique shops and visit a traditional Siheyuan courtyard house, showcasing the city's architectural charm.

At the end of the day, we'll return to the hotel for an overnight stay. Do note that due to conservation efforts and visitor safety regulations, the Forbidden City may restrict daily visitor numbers. In such instances, we'll pivot to the Confucius Temple and the Lama Temple, both significant in China's rich history and culture.

Following breakfast, we'll proceed to the train station to experience a journey on one of China’s cutting-edge high-speed trains. Travelling at an impressive speed of 300 km/h, we’ll traverse nearly 1,000 km in under four hours to reach Nanjing, an energetic city with a population of eight million and renowned for its delightful environment. Once there, we'll be swept up by its lively blend of modern commerce and rich historical heritage. Our exploration will lead us to Purple Mountain, where we’ll admire the majestic Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum, a grand homage to the founder of modern China. We'll also visit the charming Linggu Temple, a tranquil and historically significant Buddhist site nestled amidst lush greenery. Afterwards, you’ll have leisure time to wander the city at your own pace. We'll stay overnight in Nanjing.

We will set off for Suzhou, renowned for its enchanting classical gardens, recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Historically famed as a powerhouse of silk production, Suzhou embodies beauty and elegance. Our itinerary includes a visit to the Garden of the Humble Administrator, the city's largest and most celebrated garden, celebrated for its meandering paths, serene ponds, and abundant greenery—an exquisite example of traditional Chinese landscape design. Afterwards, you'll have some free time to discover the allure of Pingjiang Road, a quaint historic street adorned with canals, traditional teahouses, and artisanal shops. Lunch is included.

In the afternoon, our journey continues to Tongli, a charming water town where narrow canals, stone bridges, and traditional houses capture the essence of ancient China. We will enjoy a scenic boat ride through its peaceful waterways, offering a rare view of the town’s enduring beauty. Our day concludes with a journey to Shanghai for an overnight stay.

Today we’ll explore the vibrant city of Shanghai, starting in the ultra-modern Pudong district, which lies across the Huangpu River and boasts striking skyscrapers, including the iconic Pearl Tower. We’ll enjoy a scenic ferry ride across the Shanghai River, allowing us to admire both the historic and contemporary facets of the city. Our next stop will be the Old City, where we’ll visit the peaceful Yuyuan Garden, a beautifully preserved Ming Dynasty private garden. During our time here, we’ll partake in a traditional tea ceremony, a significant element of Chinese cultural heritage.

Our exploration continues through Xintiandi, a trendy district renowned for its chic boutiques, lively cafés, and bustling atmosphere. Lunch is included in today’s itinerary. In the afternoon, we’ll delve into the charm of Tianzifang, a former residential area now bustling with artisan shops and contemporary art galleries nestled in its maze-like alleys.

Finally, we'll take a leisurely walk along The Bund, where grand colonial-era buildings showcase the influence of European trade on the city. You’ll enjoy a free afternoon to explore at your leisure. Should you choose, you can cap off your day with an evening boat trip along the river to experience Shanghai's dazzling skyline at night—an unforgettable experience.

As the sun rises on our final day in Shanghai, you’ll enjoy breakfast at your leisure. With a heart full of cherished memories and an enriched understanding of this remarkable country, your adventure concludes. We trust that the experiences shared and friendships formed will linger long after you return home, leaving an indelible mark on your journey through China.