China Golden Triangle

Nihao China! Once you arrive in Beijing, your local guide and driver will meet you at the airport and take you to your hotel in a private vehicle. You're free to unwind on your own for the rest of the day.

Your tour today will begin at Tiananmen Square, a national icon that has witnessed many important historical and ceremonial events in China. Walking through it, you will arrive at the Forbidden City, where Chinese emperors and their families lived for hundreds of years. By exploring the palaces and exhibits inside, you will learn the most well-known anecdotes about the ancient Chinese aristocracy and get a glimpse of China’s long-gone imperial past.

This afternoon, make your way through Old Beijing's Hutongs. Here, you will have the unique opportunity to visit the home of a cricket trainer and gain insight into the history and traditions of ancient Chinese cricket fighting.

Optional: A Kung Fu Show is highly recommended as a fantastic visual feast, since it combines traditional Chinese martial arts with tales, dancing, and acrobatics.

The first stop on today's tour is the beautiful Temple of Heaven, where you may admire the intricate architecture and join the locals in trying out some of their healthy pastimes, such as Tai Chi, sword dancing, or doing Chinese calligraphy on the floor with a giant brush and ink.

Two hours outside of Beijing, stands the stunning Mutianyu Great Wall. Explore the old walls and marvel at the incredible structures that wind their way across the hillsides.

The Summer Palace, an imperial garden with lakes, artificial hills, and a broad range of ancient constructions, will be your destination after breakfast. In beautiful weather, a boat trip on Kunming Lake is the perfect way to unwind.

After that, you'll be transferred to the station to board the high-speed train for Xi'an. Your local private guide and driver will be waiting to greet you at the train station and take you to your hotel for rest.

The Terracotta Warriors make Xi'an famous around the world. Today, you will encounter this legendary army, which has guarded the first emperor of China, Qin Shihuang, since 210 B.C. Though had been buried underground for more than 2,200 years, these lifelike soldiers seem to tell you different stories through their vivid facial expressions.

In the afternoon, head back into town to take in the sights of the red lantern-lit streets from the Ancient City Wall. Spending some time strolling around the city wall or riding a bike along it is a great way to take in the city's historic allure.

In the morning after breakfast, take a stroll through Muslim Quarter and take in the area's sights, sounds, and fragrances. Visit the Shaanxi History Museum, where hundreds of priceless artifacts are just waiting to be discovered.

Leave for Shanghai on an afternoon flight. Your local guide and driver will greet you at the airport and take you to your hotel.

Your discovery in Shanghai includes Yu Garden - a classical garden that fully displays the traditional design of Chinese architecture; Yuyuan Market - a bustling bazaar near the Yu Garden where you can try local snacks and explore traditional Chinese handicrafts and artworks; the well-known Bund; the Former French Concession; and Shanghai Tower - the tallest building in China at present, and its observation deck offers an amazing view of the Huangpu River.

Optional: The incredible Acrobatic Show is an additional nighttime alternative (reservations are required) for those who like to extend their entertainment. 

Enjoy some time on your own before being escorted to the airport for your departure flight.