The eastern flank of China is of enormous historical and cultural interest. The Qin and Han Dynasties, which lasted for some 500 years, were founded in Xian. This city is considered the birthplace of a united China. Both the Ming and Qing Dynasties held sway in Beijing from the end of the 14th Century until 1911, when the last emperor was deposed. European influences also seeped into the region, first to Guangzhou (Canton), then later to Shanghai and Hong Kong. As a result there are many fascinating historical sites to discover.
Starting in Beijing we explore all the major places of interest, including the Forbidden City, the Temple of Heaven and the Summer Palace. We also visit a mostly unrestored and remote section of the Great Wall, allowing you to absorb the immenseness of this incredible structure without jostling for a position with thousands of other tourists. Xian is home to both a flourishing Muslim population and the world renowned 2,000-year-old Terracotta Warriors. We then fly to Shanghai, the largest city in China, once known as the Paris of the East.
Itinerary
| Day Number(s) | Title |
|---|---|
| 1 | (Sat) Arrive in Beijing and transfer to hotel. |
| 2 | Tour of Beijing, visiting Forbidden City, Temple of Heaven, Tiananmen Square. |
| 3 | Day trip to the Great Wall at Simatai. Optional Peking Opera. |
| 4 | Visit Summer Palace. Overnight train to Xian. |
| 5-6 | Walking tour (Muslim Quarter/South Gate) and free time. Visit Terracotta Warriors. |
| 7 | Fly to Shanghai. Walk along the Bund. Optional Shanghai Acrobat performance. |
| 8 | Trip ends in Shanghai this morning (Sat). |
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At A Glance
Trip Length |
8 days |
Trip Code |
PCHC |
Activities |
|
| Culture (Moderate) | |
Countries Visited |
|
| China | |
Start City |
|
| Beijing | |
End City |
|
| Shanghai | |
