Essence of China: 8-Day Journey from Imperial Capitals to Modern Metropolis
- From $1,298
- 8 Days
- Beijing
- Shanghai
Tour Highlights
- Explore China’s must-see destinations from north to south.
- Trace the imperial grandeur of ancient China at the Forbidden City and the Great Wall in Beijing.
- Visit Xi’an’s Terracotta Warriors, a UNESCO World Heritage Site buried for more than 2,000 years.
- Experience the rhythm of China’s modern life in Shanghai, a metropolis that blends history and progress.
Tour Details
Essence of China: 8-Day Journey from Imperial Capitals to Modern Metropolis
Beijing - Xi'An - Shanghai
2 persons minimum
$1,298
Tour Overview
Embark on an unforgettable 8-day exploration through China’s most iconic cities — Beijing, Xi’an, and Shanghai — each representing a distinct chapter of the nation’s story.
Stand before the grandeur of the Forbidden City and the Great Wall, marvel at the ancient Terracotta Army that has guarded Xi’an for millennia, and witness the glittering skyline of modern Shanghai, where history and innovation meet in perfect harmony.
This carefully crafted journey connects imperial legacies, cultural wonders, and cosmopolitan energy — offering travelers a vivid portrait of China’s evolution from ancient dynasties to its global present. Perfect for first-time visitors seeking both depth and diversity, this is a concise yet immersive way to truly feel the rhythm of China.
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1 – Arrival in Beijing
Focus: Adjust to jet lag + light activities (pick-up service)
Welcome to China! Your guide will meet you at Beijing Airport and escort you to your hotel.
As China’s capital, Beijing is a dynamic mix of ancient and modern — a city where imperial history meets urban energy. Take the rest of the day to relax or explore on your own.
Accommodation: Belt and Road Hotel Beijing / Tiantan Hotel / Sunworld Dynasty Hotel (or similar)
Day 2 – The Forbidden City & Hutong Culture
After breakfast, visit Tiananmen Square, the world’s largest public square, followed by the highlight of the day — the Forbidden City, the world’s largest and best-preserved imperial palace complex, home to 24 emperors over five centuries.
Afternoon: Take a rickshaw ride around Shichahai Lake and wander through Beijing’s historic Hutongs. Stop at a local studio near Prince Gong’s Mansion to paint your own Peking Opera mask and experience traditional Beijing life in its narrow lanes and courtyard homes.
Dinner: Not included
Accommodation: Same as above
Day 3 – The Great Wall & Summer Palace
After breakfast, head to the Mutianyu section of the Great Wall, one of the most beautiful and less crowded sections of this ancient wonder. Take a cable car to the top for breathtaking views of the mountains.
After lunch, visit the Summer Palace, China’s largest and most well-preserved imperial garden. Centered on Kunming Lake and Longevity Hill, it combines nature and architecture in perfect harmony.
Dinner: Not included
Accommodation: Same as above
Day 4 – Temple of Heaven & High-Speed Train to Xi’an
After breakfast, visit the Temple of Heaven, a masterpiece of architecture and symbol of China’s spiritual heritage, where emperors once offered sacrifices for good harvests. Stroll through the park and observe locals practicing tai chi and traditional music.
After lunch, board a high-speed train to Xi’an (about 5 hours). Meet your local guide upon arrival and transfer to the hotel.
Optional Evening: Explore Bell and Drum Tower Square and sample local snacks at the Muslim Quarter (try the famous Jiasan Soup Dumplings).
Accommodation: Grand Dynasty Culture Hotel (or similar)
Day 5 – Terracotta Warriors & Xi’an City Highlights
After breakfast, visit the iconic Terracotta Army, a UNESCO World Heritage Site hailed as the Eighth Wonder of the World. Each soldier and horse was crafted with unique details, standing as silent guardians of China’s first emperor, Qin Shi Huang.
After lunch, visit the Giant Wild Goose Pagoda, a 1,300-year-old Buddhist landmark that symbolizes Xi’an’s historic role on the Silk Road.
Optional Evening: Stroll through Tang Paradise (Grand Tang Everbright City) and enjoy its light shows and street performances (check for “The Secret of the Tang Dynasty” show schedule).
Accommodation: Same as above
Day 6 – Flight to Shanghai & The Bund
After breakfast, transfer to Xi’an Xianyang Airport for your flight to Shanghai (choose a left-side window seat for views of the Qinling Mountains).
Upon arrival, take a leisurely walk along The Bund, Shanghai’s famous waterfront lined with historic colonial-era buildings. Continue to Nanjing Road, China’s busiest shopping street and a symbol of modern commerce.
Optional Evening: Take a Huangpu River cruise to admire Shanghai’s illuminated skyline.
Accommodation: Metropark Hotel Jing’an Shanghai (or similar)
Day 7 – Shanghai Urban Culture
After breakfast, explore Shanghai’s Old Town and visit Yu Garden, a masterpiece of classical southern Chinese landscape design. Then wander through the lively City God Temple Bazaar, sampling local snacks like Nanxiang crab soup dumplings.
Next, visit the Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Center, where a large-scale city model offers a fascinating overview of Shanghai’s past and future development.
Afternoon: Ascend the Shanghai Tower (118th floor) — China’s tallest building — for panoramic views of the city. End the day with a relaxing dinner overlooking the Lujiazui night skyline.
Accommodation: Same as above
Day 8 – Departure
After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your departure flight.
Departure Tips:
For international flights from Pudong (PVG), arrive at least 3 hours before departure.
Private airport transfer will be arranged according to your flight schedule.
Thank you for traveling with us! As a Chinese saying goes, “May you have a safe journey wherever you go.” We wish you a pleasant trip home and hope to welcome you back soon to discover more of China’s beauty.
All domestic flights and high-speed train tickets as listed in the itinerary
All admission fees, entrance tickets, and activity costs as specified in the itinerary
Services of an experienced English-speaking local guide throughout the journey
Comfortable hotel accommodation based on double occupancy, as indicated in the itinerary
Daily meals as mentioned in the itinerary (Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner), with complimentary bottled drinking water
Private transportation with air-conditioned vehicle and professional driver for all scheduled tours and transfers
Airport transfers upon arrival and departure as noted in the itinerary
International flights to and from China
Chinese visa fees and any related travel documentation
Travel insurance (highly recommended)
Personal expenses, such as laundry, telephone, minibar, or optional activities not listed in the itinerary
Meals not specified in the itinerary
Tips or gratuities for guides and drivers
