Enchanting People, Enchanting Travels
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Itinerary Details

Day 1 – 4

International Arrival

Your guide will accompany you from Peking airport to your hotel in a private vehicle

3 Nights

Beijing

The energetic megacity of Beijing is a rich tapestry of the old and new, where imperial palaces, museums and buzzing ancient alleyways rub shoulders with cutting edge architecture, new shopping malls and modern buildings. The rich history of an ancient culture is evident in the many historic sites including former imperial palaces in the Forbidden City, the immense paved stone Tiananmen Square surrounded by Soviet-style buildings, the royal gardens of Summer Palace, and the Temple of Heaven built in Confucian design. Museums such as the Capital Museum and National museum showcase the city’s customs, folklore and traditions, taking you back thousands of years. The stunning National Centre for the Performing Arts and other art galleries feature operas and contemporary and international artworks reflective of the city’s buzzing art scene. Narrow alleyways (hutongs), over 800 years old, are home to many locals, and criss-cross the heart of the city, giving you a glimpse of street life and a taste of amazing street food. Food lovers can delight in local and international cuisine from a staggering range of eateries, from street food stalls to upscale restaurants and bars, not to forget the city’s vibrant nightlife. You could shop till you drop in quaint boutiques in the hutongs, or in the many trendy malls and high street shopping streets.

Included activities

Temple of Heaven and Forbidden City Tour

Start early on this fascinating tour of the UNESCO World Heritage sites of the Temple of Heaven and the Forbidden City. Walk through the gates of the Temple of Heaven to chance upon Beijing residents engaged in their daily exercise regimen. Marvel at the simple yet elegant structure of the temple before you enter it. This temple with its abundant esoteric symbolism was a favorite with Ming and Qing dynasty rulers, who considered themselves messengers from heaven and sought to communicate with God from here. Afterward, stroll into the Forbidden City – restored in 2008, this palace complex has regained its vibrant colors that make for a mesmerizing contrast against the blue sky. Explore the sprawling complex in three parts, starting with the official spaces. Listen to your expert guide narrate anecdotes about the opulent ceremonies and important government meetings that these walls have witnessed. Saunter on to the imperial lodges surrounded by exquisitely beautiful gardens. Soak in the splendid sight before you amble over to the public areas where the temples and libraries can be found. Familiarize yourself with the legends associated with the construction of this magnificent complex before you climb up an artificial hill. Savor fabulous views of the compound and all of its 9,999 buildings before you make your way to the exit gate. (Full Day; Time: 0800 hrs; Private Activity & Transfers; Fitness Level: Easy. Please bring along your passport on the day of the tour to clear security. This tour must be booked at least two weeks in advance and once the booking is done, the date cannot be changed or modified.)

Hiking at The Great Wall Jinshanling

Embark on this experience of a lifetime as you hike a remote section of the Great Wall of China, built in the late 16th century. Travel deep into the rugged countryside for a little under three hours to reach the trailhead. Head to the Kylin Tower where your expert guide will give you a safety briefing. Listen to lesser-known historical facts about the famous monument before you begin walking along the wall. Walk from east to west for about three to four hours and pause along the way to click some great photographs. Pass by 15 watchtowers on this partially restored section of the wall. You could also ascend some of the steep gradients to savor panoramic views of the surroundings. (Full Day; Time: 0800 hrs; Private Activity & Transfers; Lunch Included; Fitness Level: Moderate. Please note that bathrooms are available only at the start and end points. Please note that trekking poles, unlimited drinking water, energy drinks, and chocolates will be provided. Travel insurance and chairlift fee are not included.)

Hotel options

The Orchid – Opt 1
Room Courtyard Room
Meals Breakfast
Style Boutique
Day 4 – 6

Your guide will meet you at your hotel and accompany you to Beijing train station in a private vehicle

Board your train from Beijing to Xi’an (Duration: 5-6 hrs)

Your guide will meet you at Xi’an train station and accompany you to your hotel in a private vehicle

2 Nights

Xi’an

Xi’an is represented around the world by its timeless army of terracotta warriors, each man distinct from his brother beside, before or behind him. Such meticulous craftsmanship often makes one seriously wonder if they were not an army of actual warriors turned into stone by an ancient curse from the gods! Whether Emperor Qin Shi Huang, China’s first monarch, expected to rule in his afterlife is still a moot point of discussion. The fact remains, however, that this subterranean army with its battle horses have stood guard over his mausoleum for more than two thousand years! This UNESCO World Heritage site on the ancient Silk Road has been the capital of numerous royal dynasties through the centuries. It has many other sites worth visiting, such as the Hanyangling Museum, the ancient city wall and the tombs of Emperor Gaozong of the Tang Dynasty and that of China’s only female monarch, Empress Wu Zetian, at the Qianling Mausoleum. A visit to the Big Wild Goose Pagoda and catching a traditional palace dance performance from the Tang era should be on your must-do list as well.

Included activities

Discover Hidden Treasures of Xi’an

Discover Xi’an, one of the oldest cities in China, highlighted by treasures of the ancient world. Following a half-hour drive to Xianyang, explore the Museum of the Terracotta Army – one of the greatest archaeological finds in recent history. Traversing the different tiers of excavated pits, see thousands of life-size terracotta statues of warriors and horses featuring incredible details that seem to protect the tomb of Qin Shi Huangdi. Learn about the legends and stories surrounding the region and the birth of Chinese civilization. Drop by the museum to see some amazing artifacts including two bronze chariots, before making your way to Xi’an. Hopping on a bike or a cart, weave through the bustling town. Stop by a few of Xi’an’s highlights, including the Bell and Drum Towers, nestled amid the towering ramparts originally built by the Ming dynasty. Visit the Muslim Quarter in the old town and understand the historical influence of the Silk Road that has made Xi’an a vibrant cultural center. See the Grand Mosque and other buildings that blend Islamic architecture and Chinese symbolism. Before returning to your accommodations, settle down for supper and savor the superb flavors courtesy of street hawkers at the colorful night market. (Full Day; Time: 0800 hrs; Private Activity & Transfers; Lunch included; Fitness level: Moderate).

Hotel options

Grand Mercure Xian on Renmin Square – Opt 1
Room Classic King Room
Meals Breakfast
Style International
Day 6 – 9

Your guide will meet you at your hotel and accompany you to Xi’an airport in a private vehicle

Board your flight from Xi’an to Shanghai (Flight duration: 2-3 hrs)

Your guide will accompany you from Hongqiao airport to your hotel in a private vehicle

3 Nights

Shanghai

The busy and dynamic Shanghai is China’s biggest city and a global financial hub. Here, glitzy skyscrapers, luxury stores and trendy bars mix effortlessly with narrow alleyways lined with temples and old style lane houses where local communities thrive. Rapid economic development has led to a variety of architectural styles, from art deco to cutting edge contemporary. The Bund, a waterfront promenade lined with colonial era buildings lies at the heart of the city. The Pudong district’s futuristic skyline, including the Shanghai Tower, the Jin Mao Tower, Tony’s Farm, and the Oriental Pearl TV Tower with distinctive pink spheres lie across the Huangpu river. The classical Yuyuan Gardens is a popular tourist attraction dotted with traditional pavilions, pagodas, walkways, and emerald pools filled with swimming fish. The streets outside boast old style houses and Xiao Long Bao dumpling stalls. A burgeoning art scene encompasses several arts and culture centres such as the Foster + Partners and Heatherwick Studio. Dining and nightlife are nothing short of exciting with plenty of swanky bars, Michelin restaurants, hole-in-the-wall cafes and street food joints. Designer boutiques, bustling markets, and quirky antique and vintage stores color the shopping scene.

Included activities

Journey Across Time From Bund to Pudong

Get ready for a fascinating stroll from the past to the present during this half-day Shanghai tour. Start your journey at the historic riverside walkway, famous as the Bund, where western traders arrived in early twentieth century China. Take in the colonial architecture of heritage buildings that once served as foreign consulates, international hotels and trading houses. Learn from your experienced guide how the grand avenue fell to neglect during the Chinese Civil War and then later of restoration projects which revived its historic importance. Next, walk through Bund Sightseeing Tunnel to cross the Huangpu River to emerge into a striking different world – that of uber modern Pudong district. Marvel at towering skyscrapers and glitzy buildings as you hear the story of Pudong’s incredible transformation from marshy fields to a glittering downtown. Explore the hip Lujiazui neighbourhood boasting of some of the most famous buildings in the country, such as the Oriental Pearl TV Tower, Jin Mao Tower and Shanghai Tower, the tallest building in China. Before heading back, consider taking the high speed elevator to the 118th floor observation terrace for stunning panoramas of the city. (Half Day; Times: 0800/1300 hrs; Private Activity & Transfers).

Vintage Bike Ride in Shanghai

Discover little known neighborhoods and quiet alleyways on this cycling tour of the more tranquil parts of town on vintage bikes. Drive down to Xintiandi District and meet your English speaking guide at a local café for a tour brief. Set out to explore the city on your vintage vehicles, riding past the tree-shaded boulevards of the French Concession, admiring the area’s rich architecture. Ride over to Fuxing Park and watch residents exercise, meditate and even dance early in the morning. Stop by a street-side food stall for a delicious morning snack. Ride over to a local wet market, soaking in the sights and sounds of the city. Enjoy cycling down the city’s narrow alleyways or lilongs, which mirror the hutongs of Beijing. Soak in the quintessential spirit of the city and its residents in these colorful and lively warren of lanes that hold the local community together. Come across an old Taoist temple within a tranquil neighborhood, discovering the simple life of the local monks and their unique philosophy, before returning to your hotel. (Half Day; Time: 0800 hrs; Private Activity & Transfer; Snacks and beverages included; Fitness level: Easy; Please note that only children above 12 yrs are permitted on this tour and special bikes available for children).

Hotel options

SSAW Boutique Hotel Shanghai Bund – Opt 1
Room Deluxe Room
Meals Breakfast
Style Boutique

Your guide will meet you at your hotel and accompany you to Shanghai airport in a private vehicle

International Departure

Discover the top three destinations on this private China vacation. At the bustling megacity of Beijing, walk on the Great Wall of China and explore the Forbidden City. In Xi’an, witness the ancient Terracotta Warriors, see museums and the famous Muslim Quarter. At your last destination, Shanghai, discover iconic architecture and sample some of the best street food in China!

Price & Inclusions

Option 1

From $3,790 USD / person

Prices are in USD and exclude international flights. This trip price is based on low season rates for accommodation and other applicable services, and may change depending on availability, currency fluctuations and number of people traveling together. For high season prices, please contact us with your exact travel dates and preferences.

Price Includes
  • Accommodation and meals, as specified in the itinerary
  • Activities and excursions, as specified in the itinerary
  • Transportation services, as specified in the itinerary
  • Your Trip Coordinator: a 24/7 point of contact supporting you during your trip
  • Carbon emissions offsetting for your trip
Not Included
  • Entrance fees and meals, unless mentioned in the itinerary description
  • Tips and personal expenses
  • Visa and tourism fees
  • Travel, health, and cancellation insurance
  • International airfare

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