12 Days of Immersive Travel in Real China
Trip overview
This itinerary connects Beijing, Shanghai and Xi'an — home to the world-famous Terracotta Army — offering you a wonderful glimpse into the timeless charm of China. Beyond exploring these iconic cultural hubs and bustling cities, this tour also takes you deep into the serene Chinese countryside.
You will spend three days around the Great Wall, with ample chances to discover its diverse sections and wander along this monumental landmark. Embark on this rewarding journey to delve into China's profound history, rich culture and dynamic modern life. We welcome you to join this unforgettable adventure.
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 — Welcome to China!
- Day 2: Forbidden City - Summer Palace - Tian'anmen Square — Follow the Footsteps of Ming Dynasty Emperors
- Day 3: Gubeikou - Jinshanling Great Wall — Spend Time at the Great Wall of China
- Day 4: Gubei Watertown - Simatai - Jiankou — Encounter an Intriguing Water Village
- Day 5: Jiankou Great Wall - Mutianyu — Traverse a Tranquil Section of the Great Wall
- Day 6: Temple Of Heaven - Shichahai - 798 Art District — See the Local Life in Traditional Beijing
- Day 7: Beijing - Xi'an — Take the Train to Xi'an
- Day 8: Qin Terra-cotta Army - Xi'an Old City - Gao's Grand Courtyard — Meet the Terracotta Warriors of Xi'an
- Day 9: Shaanxi History Museum - Big Wild Goose Pagoda — Learn About Local History
- Day 10: Yu Garden - Jade Buddha Temple - The Oriental Pearl TV Tower — Tour the Iconic City of Shanghai
- Day 11: Wuzhen — Encounter the Riverside Village of Wuzhen
- Day 12: Shanghai — Goodbye, China!
Destinations on this trip
Day 1: Welcome to China!
Your wonderful journey across China starts upon your arrival at Beijing Capital International Airport. After you step into the arrivals hall, our driver will greet you and transfer you to your hotel in central Beijing. You may check in, freshen up after the long trip, and settle in for the days ahead.
Day 2: Follow the Footsteps of Ming Dynasty Emperors
After breakfast, set off to visit Beijing's most iconic landmarks: Tian'anmen Square, the Forbidden City and the Summer Palace. Your first stop is Tian'anmen Square, the world's largest public square. Take a moment to appreciate its grandeur before heading to the Forbidden City. This spectacular imperial complex was home to emperors of the Ming and Qing dynasties. Constructed in the 15th century, it offers a remarkable insight into China's imperial history. You may climb the hill in Jingshan Park to enjoy a full panoramic view of the grand palace complex. Finally, proceed to the Summer Palace on the outskirts of Beijing, an exquisite masterpiece of classical Chinese garden art. In the evening, you will enjoy a delicious Peking duck feast.
Day 3: Explore the Great Wall of China
This morning, we will drive to Gubeikou to start our hike along the Great Wall. We will head for the Jinshanling section, a serene area blanketed in lush greenery. Marvel at the delicate brickwork of this ancient rampart and watch it meander across rolling mountains. Later, continue the drive to Gubei Watertown, located beneath the Simatai section of the Great Wall. This well-developed tourist resort features cosy lodging amid tranquil countryside scenery.
Day 4: Encounter an Intriguing Water Village
You may choose your preferred activities this morning. You can climb to the top of the Simatai section to admire a splendid sunrise over the Great Wall and enjoy sweeping panoramic views. Alternatively, stay in the watertown and join cultural workshops such as tie-dyeing and kite painting. Please make sure to reserve your spot in advance. After lunch, we will continue our hike along the Great Wall. Starting from the Jinshanling section, we will proceed to a well-preserved ancient stretch of the wall, which boasts stunning views of the surrounding landscapes. Later, you will be transferred to Jiankou Village and stay overnight at a local guesthouse.
Day 5: Traverse a Tranquil Section of the Great Wall
Today is another full day dedicated to Great Wall hiking. Our trek starts at Xizhazi Village, where we will take a narrow mountain path leading straight up to the wall. The trail is fairly challenging, yet you will be well rewarded with gorgeous views from the summit. Climb up to the remote watchtower and admire the stunning panoramic landscape all around. We will continue hiking for approximately 4 hours. This quiet route is rarely visited by tourists, so you can fully enjoy the peaceful journey. We will eventually reach the Mutianyu section. Unlike the secluded stretch we just traversed, Mutianyu is one of the most popular sections of the Great Wall. We will have lunch before heading back to Beijing.
Day 6: Experience Traditional Beijing Local Life
After breakfast, watch local residents enjoy their morning exercises before we head to the Temple of Heaven. This sacred complex was where emperors of the Ming and Qing dynasties held sacrificial ceremonies and prayed for bumper harvests. After that, we will visit the charming Beijing Hutongs to experience authentic traditional local life. You will learn to make dumplings and share lunch with a local family, followed by a classic rickshaw tour. Next, proceed to 798 Art District. This area features former factory buildings renovated into artist studios and cultural venues for you to explore.
Day 7: Take the Train to Xi'an
Savor a relaxed breakfast at your hotel first. You will then be privately transferred to Beijing West Railway Station to board the high-speed train bound for Xi'an. You will arrive at Xi'an Railway Station in the evening. As the hometown of the world-famous Terracotta Army, Xi'an awaits your exploration. Our local guide will greet you at the station and escort you to your hotel in the city center. The rest of the evening is yours to enjoy at your own pace.
Day 8: Meet the Terracotta Army of Xi'an
Embark on a wonderful sightseeing tour in Xi'an today. First, come face to face with the world-famous Terracotta Army. Unearthed in 1974, these 6,000 life-sized statues lay buried underground for thousands of years. Created more than 2,000 years ago to guard the mausoleum of Qin Shi Huang, China's first emperor, each warrior boasts unique costumes and vivid facial features. After the tour, head to Xi'an Ancient City Wall for an enjoyable bike ride. Next, explore the lively Muslim Quarter. Here you will visit Gao's Grand Courtyard and the Great Mosque, wander along bustling streets lined with shops and food stalls, and watch a traditional shadow puppet show. In the evening, savor an authentic Muslim-style dinner.
Day 9: Explore Local History & Fly to Shanghai
Spend your morning exploring scenic spots in Xi'an before departing for Shanghai. First, visit the Big Wild Goose Pagoda and enjoy the fountain show at its North Plaza. After lunch at a local restaurant, proceed to the Shaanxi History Museum, where exquisite exhibits present the profound history and culture of the region. In the afternoon, you will be transferred to Xi'an Xianyang International Airport for your flight to Shanghai. Upon arrival in Shanghai, our local guide will greet you and escort you to your hotel.
Day 10: Tour the Iconic City of Shanghai
Begin your city tour of Shanghai this morning. Your first stop is Yu Garden. Founded in 1559 during the Ming Dynasty, this elegant classical Chinese garden features delicate pavilions and pagodas scattered among lush trees, rockeries and flower beds, perfect for leisurely walks. Next, visit the Jade Buddha Temple to admire the precious jewelled Buddha statues. Afterwards, head to The Bund, a world-famous waterfront avenue. This stretch was once lined with numerous banks and trading firms back in the 1920s and 1930s. Conclude today's sightseeing at the Oriental Pearl TV Tower, a landmark standing 468 meters tall in Shanghai.
Day 11: Explore the Water Town of Wuzhen
Today we head to the picturesque water town of Wuzhen. You will be picked up at your hotel this morning for a roughly 2-hour drive to this charming riverside settlement. Upon arrival, visit a traditional wine workshop and a local printing studio. After a classic Chinese lunch, explore an exhibition displaying antique beds from the Ming and Qing dynasties. Next, tour the local folk museum. To finish the day, take a leisurely ride on a traditional canal boat along the waterways before we return to Shanghai.
Day 12: Farewell to China
Your 12-day journey across China draws to a close. We hope this wonderful trip has left you with unforgettable memories of this remarkable country. At the scheduled time, our staff will pick you up at the hotel and transfer you to Shanghai Airport for your return flight. Wishing you a pleasant journey home, and we sincerely look forward to seeing you again in the future.
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.
