8 Days: Heritage & Modern Sights
Trip overview
This 8-day China tour is tailored for first-time travellers. You will not only admire time-honored ancient wonders, immerse yourself in authentic local life, but also experience the rich diversity of modern Chinese culture.
Your journey begins in Beijing, the national capital. Explore the Forbidden City, where grand imperial history comes vividly to life. A hike along the Great Wall will leave you utterly amazed. Next, travel to Xi'an, an ancient capital of multiple dynasties, to discover the world-famous Terracotta Army and delve into China's profound history. The tour concludes in Shanghai, a dynamic metropolis that seamlessly blends classic heritage and modern glamour. This well-rounded itinerary serves as the perfect introduction to this vast and endlessly captivating country.
Services
Included:
- Entrance fees to scenic spots listed in itinerary
- Meals specified in itinerary
- Assistance on arrival/departure & airport/hotel/station/ferry transfers as specified in itinerary
- Flights/trains specified in itinerary, with flight, airport tax and fuel fees included
- Sightseeing & activities as listed in itinerary
- Accommodation with daily breakfast
- Private transfers between airports, hotels and scenic spots in each city or area in private, air-conditioned vehicle as listed in itinerary
- One bottle of drinking water per person per day
- Service charges
Excluded:
- Flights/sightseeing/meals/other items not listed in itinerary
- Visa application & visa fee
- Gratuities or tips
- Travel insurance
- Personal expenses (e.g. room service, internet charges, laundry, drinks, telephone calls, optional activities)
- Excess baggage charge
- Optional activities
Optional:
- On request
Itinerary at a Glance
- Day 1: Beijing — Beijing, capital of China
- Day 2: Beijing — Discover ancient royalty at the Forbidden City
- Day 3: Beijing — Hike on the magnificent Great Wall of China
- Day 4: Beijing - Xi'an — Beijing - Xi'an, Bullet Train experience
- Day 5: Xi'an — The Terracotta Warriors
- Day 6: Xi'an - Shanghai — Welcome to modern China
- Day 7: Shanghai — Shanghai skyscrapers
- Day 8: Shanghai — Departure, say goodbye to China
Destinations on this trip
Day 1: Beijing, Capital of China
Welcome to Beijing, China's capital city. Upon your arrival, our local guide will meet you at the airport and transfer you to your hotel for check-in. You may explore the surrounding area and settle in at your own pace for the rest of the day.
Day 2: Discover Ancient Royal Heritage at the Forbidden City
Your tour kicks off with a visit to Tiananmen Square, which stands majestically at the heart of Beijing. From here, proceed to today's highlight: the Forbidden City. This grand imperial complex served as the royal palace for more than 600 years. Follow your guide to explore its stately halls and elegant pavilions, and listen to fascinating stories of ancient emperors amid countless cultural relics. Savour a delicious lunch featuring authentic Peking Roast Duck. Afterwards, climb up Jingshan Park to enjoy sweeping panoramic views over the Forbidden City. To wrap up the day's exploration, take a traditional rickshaw ride along winding hutong alleys and experience the timeless charm of old Beijing.
Day 3: Hike the Magnificent Great Wall of China
In the morning, visit the Temple of Heaven to experience authentic local life. Besides admiring its exquisite architecture, you may join locals for morning activities: try Tai Chi, sword dancing, or even listen to and sing along with Peking Opera. Your main adventure awaits about 1.5 hours' drive from downtown Beijing. We will head to the popular Mutianyu Section for a Great Wall hike. Though this area gets busy, the scenery is absolutely breathtaking. Ride the cable car uphill for a relaxed stroll between watchtowers and take in the views from a new angle. Marvel at this extraordinary structure stretching more than 21,000 kilometres. You may choose between the cable car and the thrilling toboggan ride for your descent. Afterwards, drive back to the hotel, and enjoy your free evening at leisure.
Day 4: Beijing to Xi'an – High-Speed Train Experience
Before heading to the railway station, take a leisurely stroll through the Summer Palace, China's largest and best-preserved imperial garden. Weather permitting, you may take a boat ride on Kunming Lake and admire the elegant, ornate pavilions lining the lakeshore. Next, board the high-speed train bound for Xi'an. Upon arrival, your local Xi'an guide will greet you at the station and transfer you to your hotel.
Day 5: The Terracotta Army
Few may be familiar with China's first emperor Qin Shi Huang, yet the world-famous Terracotta Army is known across the globe. Buried for more than 2,200 years, these life-sized figures boast incredibly lifelike facial expressions. During your visit, learn their fascinating history and the close connection with Qin Shi Huang. After the tour, return to downtown Xi'an to visit the Giant Wild Goose Pagoda. This well-preserved ancient structure is a revered sacred site for Buddhists. It houses numerous Buddhist scriptures and precious relics collected by the monk Xuanzang, who also documented his legendary journey in the classic work Journey to the West. Nestled in serene and beautiful surroundings, this complex holds an extraordinary cultural collection.
Day 6: Welcome to Modern China
Your day starts with a visit to Xi'an's Ancient City Wall, where you can learn about the city's ancient defence systems. Enjoy a bicycle ride along the ramparts to discover more of this historic landmark. Before heading to the airport, take a leisurely stroll through the Muslim Quarter and explore the Great Mosque. This unique site combines Islamic culture with traditional Chinese architectural styles. Next, board your flight to Shanghai. Upon arrival, your local guide will greet you and transfer you to your hotel.
Day 7: Shanghai Skyscrapers
After breakfast, visit Yu Garden, a compact yet exquisite classical Chinese garden. It is dotted with elegant pavilions, archways, stone bridges and serene ponds. Outside the garden, wander the bustling Yuyuan Bazaar to taste authentic local street snacks and browse for distinctive souvenirs. Next, head to the Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Hall, where you can learn about Shanghai's innovative ideas and remarkable achievements in urban planning and development. Following lunch, take a leisurely stroll through the Former French Concession. Afterwards, ascend Shanghai Tower — the world's second tallest building — aboard one of the world's fastest elevators. Admire sweeping panoramic views of this thriving modern metropolis. Conclude your day with a walk along the Bund to appreciate the magnificent colonial-era buildings from the 1920s.
Day 8: Departure – Farewell to China
It is time to bid farewell to China. At the scheduled time, your guide and driver will transfer you to the airport for your return flight home.
Good to know
- International flights are not included unless stated in your quote.
- Visa requirements depend on your nationality; we can advise.
- Moderate walking; some steps at heritage sites.
- Itinerary may adjust slightly for weather or local holidays.
