China Golden Triangle

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.

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.

Then, continue about two hours' drive outside Beijing to the stunning Mutianyu Great Wall. Explore the old walls and marvel at the incredible structures that wind their way across the hillsides.

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.

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.