The Essence of China: 8-Day Cultural Journey from North to South
- From $1,198
- 8 Days
- Beijing
- Shanghai
Tour Highlights
- Explore China’s must-see destinations from north to south.
- Trace the splendor of ancient China at the Forbidden City and the Great Wall.
- Discover the contrast between the timeless charm and rapid development of Shanghai, China’s modern metropolis.
Tour Details
The Essence of China: 8-Day Cultural Journey from North to South
Beijing - Shanghai
2 persons minimum
$1,198
Experience China’s most representative “Tale of Two Cities”:
Beijing — the ancient capital with a thousand years of imperial history and rich heritage;
Shanghai — the “Pearl of the Orient,” showcasing modernity, style, and economic vitality.
Two cities, two worlds — one unforgettable journey.
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1 – Arrival in Beijing
Focus: Adjusting to the time zone + light activities (pick-up service)
Welcome to China! Your guide will meet you at the airport and escort you to your hotel.
Beijing, China’s capital, has evolved into a vibrant modern city, yet its ancient roots remain visible at every turn. Take the rest of the day to relax or begin exploring at your own pace.
Accommodation: Belt and Road Hotel Beijing, Tiantan Hotel Beijing, or Sunworld Dynasty Hotel (or similar)
Day 2 – The Forbidden City & Hutong Culture
After breakfast, begin your day at Tiananmen Square, the world’s largest public square.
Then visit today’s highlight: the Forbidden City, the largest and best-preserved imperial palace complex in the world. Over its 500-year history, 24 emperors of the Ming and Qing dynasties ruled from here.
Afternoon:
Enjoy a Hutong Experience — take a rickshaw ride around Shichahai Lake, stroll along Yandai Xiejie, and join a Peking Opera mask painting workshop near Prince Gong’s Mansion. Wander through narrow alleys lined with traditional courtyard homes and absorb the local charm of Old Beijing.
Dinner: Not included
Accommodation: Same as above
Day 3 – Great Wall & Summer Palace
After breakfast, head to the Mutianyu section of the Great Wall, one of the most scenic and less crowded parts, beloved by international visitors. Take a cable car to the top, enjoy breathtaking views, and capture unforgettable moments.
Lunch: En route
Afternoon: Visit the Summer Palace, the largest and best-preserved imperial garden in China. Centered around Kunming Lake and Longevity Hill, it draws inspiration from Hangzhou’s West Lake and blends natural beauty with refined landscape design.
Dinner: Not included
Accommodation: Same as above
Day 4 – Temple of Heaven & High-Speed Train to Shanghai
After breakfast, visit the Temple of Heaven, a masterpiece of Chinese architecture where emperors once prayed for good harvests. Stroll through its peaceful park, visit the Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests, and observe locals doing morning exercises.
After lunch, take a high-speed train to Shanghai. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel.
Accommodation: Metropark Hotel Jing’an Shanghai or similar
Day 5 – Yu Garden & The Bund
After breakfast, visit the Old City of Shanghai. Hidden amid the bustling streets lies Yu Garden, a masterpiece of classical Ming-style landscaping.
Explore the Chenghuangmiao Bazaar surrounding the garden — a lively marketplace with traditional architecture, local snacks, and souvenirs. Try Shanghai’s famous Nanxiang steamed buns, crabapple cakes, or pear syrup candy.
In the afternoon, stroll along The Bund, Shanghai’s iconic waterfront lined with historical architecture. Continue to Nanjing Road, China’s most famous shopping street.
Accommodation: Metropark Hotel Jing’an Shanghai or similar
Day 6 – Modern Shanghai
In the morning, experience local life at People’s Park or Jing’an Park, where locals dance, sing, play chess, and exercise — a vivid glimpse of Shanghai’s daily rhythm.
Then, visit the Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Center, where a huge city model offers an impressive overview of Shanghai’s evolution — a must-see “window into the city.”
Afternoon: Visit the Shanghai Tower, the tallest building in China (over 630 meters), and enjoy a 360° panoramic view from the observation deck.
Optional Evening: Huangpu River Night Cruise to admire the city’s dazzling skyline.
Accommodation: Metropark Hotel Jing’an Shanghai or similar
Day 7 – Free Day
Enjoy a full day of leisure for personal exploration, shopping, or relaxation.
Accommodation: Metropark Hotel Jing’an Shanghai or similar
Day 8 – Departure
After breakfast, your driver will transfer you to the airport for your departure flight.
Departure Tips:
For international flights from Pudong (PVG): arrive at least 3 hours in advance.
We’ll arrange private transfer 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 flight and hope to welcome you back soon to discover more of China’s wonders.
Goodbye and safe travels!
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
