Best China Tours: Discover the Golden Triangle – A Captivating 8-Day Itinerary

Highlights of the Trip 

This exciting 8-Day tour covers three iconic Chinese cities – Beijing, Xian and Shanghai. It lives up to the expectation as the ‘Most Classic China Tour’ with each city representing the Chinese past, present, and future – so get ready for the ultimate exploration experience! During this Beijing China Tour/Great Wall of China tour you can climb on the majestic Great Wall, walk into the splendid Forbidden City and Summer Palace, ride a rickshaw to experience Hutong folk custom in Beijing, be amazed by the fascinating Terracotta Warriors, stroll on the Ancient City Wall in Xian, and take in the modernised architecture of Shanghai.

You might like to consider our 8-day flight only package below which aligns perfectly with this tour:

China, 8-Day Flight-only Package (asiara-holidays.com)

Destinations and the Landmarks / Sights to Visit 

Beijing

• Tiananmen Square: Served as a symbol of Chinese power and strength for centuries, and has also been the site of important events that have shaped the country’s history.
• Forbidden City (Palace Museum): Located in the heart of the city, this majestic palace served as the Chinese imperial palace for over 500 years, from the Ming dynasty to the end of the Qing dynasty.
• Summer Palace: An architectural marvel that showcases the grandeur and sophistication of ancient Chinese royalty.
• Great Wall: The Great Wall of China is truly a marvel of ancient engineering and one of the most iconic landmarks in the world. Spanning over 13,000 miles!
• Sacred Way: This ancient road was built over 600 years ago and has been the site of grand funeral processions and ceremonies for centuries.
• Beijing Olympic Village: A state-of-the-art, purpose-built complex that served as the main residential area for athletes and officials during the highly-anticipated 2008 Summer Olympics.
• Temple of Heaven: Built during the Ming Dynasty in the 15th century and expanded during the Qing Dynasty in the 18th century.

Xian

• Terracotta Warriors and Horses: This archaeological wonder is a collection of thousands of life-sized terracotta figures, including warriors, chariots, and horses, dating back over 2,000 years.
• Ancient City Wall: Built over 600 years ago during the Ming Dynasty, this wall served as a defensive fortification for the city, protecting it from invaders and preserving the rich history of Xian.
• Muslim Quarter: A vibrant and culturally-rich district that dates back to the Tang Dynasty.
• Grand Tang Dynasty Ever Bright City: Embrace vibrant nightscape and soak up the culture of Xian.
• Da Cien Temple: A magnificent Buddhist temple that has stood the test of time for nearly 1500 years.
• Shaanxi History Museum: One of the most prominent museums in China, known for its vast collection of artifacts and exhibits.

Shanghai

• Shanghai Museum: Founded in 1952 by the Shanghai Municipal Government, the museum’s collection has grown extensively over the years and now houses over 120,000 pieces of ancient Chinese art.
• Jade Buddha Temple: The temple was originally built during the Qing dynasty in 1882, but it was later destroyed and rebuilt in 1912.

Cultural Experiences & Activities of this Holiday

Beijing Hutongs: An integral part of the city’s rich history and traditional culture. These narrow alleyways, lined with traditional courtyard homes called siheyuan, have been a prominent feature of the city for centuries. They reflect the city’s unique architectural style and way of life.

Make a miniature Terracotta Warrior: Creating a miniature Terracotta Warrior is not just about making a beautiful piece of art. It’s a way to pay homage to the rich history and culture of China, and to appreciate the remarkable craftsmanship that went into creating these soldiers over 2,000 years ago. So, let your creativity and passion take over, and enjoy the process of bringing a piece of ancient history into your own home.

Tang Palace Dance Show (optional): An exquisite fusion of traditional Chinese dance, music, and royal court culture that brings audiences back in time to the glorious Tang Dynasty. This breath-taking performance takes place in the heart of Xi’an, the capital city of the Tang Dynasty, and immerses viewers in the opulence and grandeur of the royal palace. From the moment the show begins, audiences are transported to a world of elegant choreography, intricate costumes, and enchanting music.

Yuyuan Bazaar: Yuyuan Bazaar, located in the heart of Shanghai, is a bustling and vibrant marketplace that encapsulates the essence of traditional Chinese culture and modern city life. Dating back over 400 years, Yuyuan Bazaar is a historical landmark of Shanghai and was once the largest market in the city. Today, it continues to draw in tourists and locals alike with its charming atmosphere, rich heritage, and diverse array of goods and delicacies.

Bund: A famous waterfront district in Shanghai, China. It is situated along the Huangpu River and is renowned for its stunning views of the iconic Pudong skyline. The Bund is a popular tourist destination and a symbol of the city’s rich history and development. The Bund has a rich history that dates back to the mid-19th century when Shanghai was opened to foreign trade.

Acrobatic Show (optional): Shanghai is home to some of the most spectacular and jaw-dropping acrobatic shows in the world, showcasing the incredible skills and agility of its performers. Here you can witness the breath-taking “balls of death” acts, chair balancing, hula hoops, juggling of benches, walking in the air, and other breath-taking performances.

Tianzifang: A bustling neighbourhood located in the former French Concession area of Shanghai, China. This vibrant and eclectic area is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike, and offers a unique blend of traditional Chinese culture and modern hipster vibes.

Local Cuisine and Traditional Dishes to try while in China 

During this tour, numerous opportunities will arise for you to savour the authentic local cuisine, whether from the menus of included meals or from your own culinary exploration during your free time in the itinerary. Indulge in traditional dishes that showcase the rich flavours of the region, including Peking duck, which originated in Beijing and is known for its crispy skin and succulent meat. In Shanghai, the cuisine is known for its sweet and delicate flavours, with dishes such as Shanghai-style braised pork belly and steamed pork dumplings.

Water-based Activities and Cruises

Huangpu River Night Cruise (optional): Marvel at thew city’s most significant edifices and streets sparkling under the atmospheric cover of darkness.

Accommodation of this Tour

During your travels, rest assured that you will have a comfortable and convenient place to stay at each destination. Our selection process for hotels takes into consideration various factors such as star rating, ideal locations, top-notch amenities, cosy beds, excellent service, and favourable reviews from past guests. With a range of options from luxurious 5-star accommodations to comfortable 4-star options and budget-friendly 3-star choices, you can choose the best stay to fit your budget and preferences. Many of the hotels also offer a breakfast that caters to both Western and Chinese tastes, with plenty of options to choose from.

To discover more of our best China tours, explore our website or contact us on

+01473356000 or enquiry@asiara-holidays.com.

Itinerary

Day 1: Beijing Arrival

Greetings! Welcome to the iconic city and capital of China – Beijing. Our tour guide will meet you at the airport arrival hall and drive you to your hotel in a luxurious vehicle. After settling in, use the rest of the day however you wish. Should you desire to explore the local area, your guide can provide practical advice. Travelling to Beijing is a breeze as there are numerous international and domestic flights, as well as high speed trains from Shanghai (5-6 hrs), Xian (5.5 hrs), and Guangzhou (8-9.5 hr)

Day 2: Explore Beijing and uncover one of the world’s most important palaces.

After a pleasant breakfast at your hotel, you will be picked up and ready to explore the historical face of Beijing with a brief visit to Tiananmen Square – now the largest city plaza in the world. You’ll visit Tiananmen Gate, witnessing a true iconic site – the place where Chairman Mao announced the establishment of the People’s Republic of China. You’ll then explore the Forbidden City, a huge palace complex of more than 9,000 rooms where 24 emperors of Ming and Qing Dynasties resided. Here, you will have the chance to see one of the world’s 5 most important palaces, featuring yellow glazed tile roof, white marble base and colourful paintings. Subsequently, you’ll be taken to Jingshan Park, where you can snap a nice shot of the Forbidden City and take in panoramic views. In the afternoon, you’ll drive about 40 minutes out of Beijing and spend your time at the Summer Palace, the largest and best-preserved royal garden in China. You’ll be able to stroll around this ancient area, admiring pavilions, mansions, temples, bridges, and corridors, take in the vast lotus in Kunming Lake and the coloured paintings in Long Corridor. Optional activities include taking in a Kung Fu show to trace the history of Chinese Kung Fu between 19:15~20:15, and/or an acrobatic show between 19:15~20:15.

✓ Breakfast, Lunch

Day 3: Witness one of the Seven Wonders of the World.

Start your day off with a visit to one of the Seven Wonders of the World – The Great Wall of China. Visit the Mutianyu section, a less crowded preserved segment from the Ming Dynasty. This part of the Great Wall is the longest in China and is brimming with lush, natural vegetation. Take a cable car up to the wall and explore its towers and enjoy scenic views. If you have enough energy, try the traditional way of ascending the wall – it should take you about 40 minutes. After, take the cable car back down or if you are still feeling ambitious, walk down the steps. Once you’re finished, head to the 7-kilometer-long Sacred Way, leading to the Ming Dynasty Imperial Tombs. Admire the stunning archway and Great Palace Gate and enjoy the view of the mythical animals and officials who guard it. Then stop at the Beijing Olympic Village to view the famous Bird’s Nest and Water Cube from the outside. As a treat for yourself after the day-long tour, enjoy an optional delicious dinner of the famous Peking Roasted Duck at Quanjude.

✓ Breakfast, Lunch

Day 4: Beijing and an exciting High-Speed Train to Xian

After breakfast, drive to the Imperial site of the Temple of Heaven. Once a site to give thanks and pray for good harvests, it is now a place bustling with traditional activities like Tai Chi, dancing, kite flying, water calligraphy, and more. After travel back to the city centre and take a rickshaw to meander through the Beijing Hutongs – small alleys lined with neighbouring quadrangle dwellings. Explore the old Beijing way of life, peek into antique shops and small boutiques, as well as visiting a local family’s home. Once your tour here is finished, you will be taken to the Beijing West Railway Station to board a high-speed train bound for Xian, which takes around five hours. There will be a tour guide waiting to meet you at Xian North Railway Station before escorting you to your hotel in the city. The remainder of the day is at your own leisure to explore this ancient Chinese capital.

✓ Breakfast, Lunch

Day 5: Xian: Discover one of the greatest man-made wonders.

After breakfast, head to one of the greatest man-made wonders in the world – the Terracotta Warriors and Horses, built by Emperor Qin Shihuang of China. Here, explore the 8,000-strong life-size army of warriors, horses, and chariots, buried in 3 pits for more than 2,000 years and discovered by a local farmer in 1974. Stand in awe of the ambitious feat of Qin Shihuang and talented craftsmanship of ancient Chinese artisans. After lunch, return to Xian for a leisurely stroll on the Ancient City Wall, the largest and best-preserved of its kind in the country. Soaring 12 meters high and spanning 18 meters wide, marvel at the nearly 14-kilometer tour of this well-maintained structure. After that, take a wander through the lively Muslim Quarter, trying out all the snacks it has to offer and soaking up Muslim culture. Optional activities: 1) Go for a cycling excursion on the Ancient City Wall; 2) Catch a Tang Palace Dance Show (from 8pm to 9pm) over a bowl of delicious dumplings at a local restaurant.

✓ Breakfast, Lunch

Day 6: Explore Xian & Flight to Shanghai

After breakfast, your day starts with a visit to Da Cien Temple, a famed Buddhist sutra translation site from the Tang Dynasty. Here, you can explore the renowned Big Wild Goose Pagoda, soaring 64.5 meters into the sky, constructed by Buddhist patriarch Xuanzang to preserve scriptures from India in the early Tang Dynasty. He is, of course, the inspiration for Tang Seng in the renowned Chinese novel, Journey to the West. For an extra 30 RMB, you can even climb up the pagoda! Plus, you’ll even get to wear the regal Hanfu, the traditional costume of emperors, their family, ministers and other noble persons, and snap photos to create unique memories. Next, you’ll learn about antiquity in the Shaanxi History Museum. Appreciate relics from the Zhou to Tang dynasties (1100 BC to 907 AD). However, due to the influx of tourists from July to early September and China’s National Day in October, you may opt for another activity or attraction. Please consult your travel consultant for more details. The rest of your day is free until it’s time to head to the airport for a two-hour flight to Shanghai – China’s most vibrant metropolis. When you arrive, you’ll be met by a local tour guide who will take you to your hotel downtown.

✓ Breakfast, Lunch

Day 7: Experience the past and present of Shanghai

Your sightseeing journey will begin at Shanghai Museum, one of the best four museums in China. This iconic building, with its round top and square base symbolizing the ancient Chinese perception of ’round sky, square earth,’ houses collections of bronzes, paintings, calligraphy, sculptures, ceramics, and jade pieces from over 5,000 years ago all the way to the Qing dynasty. An audio explanation device will be provided to explain the history and facts about the relics within. From there, you will visit Yu Garden, an exemplary example of Chinese gardens from Jiangnan. Marvelling at the jagged pavilions with elegant decorations, glittering pools with roving fish, and pine trees reaching to the sky, Yuyuan Bazaar is also nearby should you wish to explore the traditional Chinese handicrafts and art works or savour local snacks. Drive several kilometres to the top of ‘the Eye of Shanghai,’ Shanghai World Financial Centre where you can enjoy a breath-taking panoramic view of Shanghai from the 100th floor (474m). Then, stroll along the bustling Nanjing Road, renowned for its abundant shopping opportunities as well its modern atmosphere, followed by a mesmerising visit to the Bund, previously a simple towpath that is now a trading hub boasting the perfect combination of Chinese and Western cultures, all while enjoying stunning views of the Shanghai skyline.

As optional extras, you can attend an enthralling show of Acrobatics, featuring such thrilling acts as ‘balls of death’ stunts, balancing on chairs, hula hooping, jugging with benches, and walking up in the air (generally during 19:30~21:00). Alternatively, take a soothing Huangpu River night tour and witness the most important structures and streets of the city shining in the night sky (around 50 minutes).

✓ Breakfast, Lunch

Day 8: Shanghai Departure

Your guide and driver will pick you up at your hotel after breakfast to take you on a captivating journey. You’ll make a lovely visit to the Jade Buddha Temple, admiring the world’s largest Jade Buddha as well as an array of religious artifacts, ancient statues, and Buddhist scriptures, all hidden among modern blocks and dominating mansions. After that, you’ll be transferred to Tianzifang, an authentic neighbourhood lined with licensed restaurants, cafes, and art galleries in the French Concession area. You can leisurely explore the clean old alleys, savour a cup of refreshment at an open-air café, and find unique souvenirs in the one-of-a-kind shops to experience the international charm intertwined with the city’s culture. In the afternoon, your guide will take you to the airport for your flight to your next destination or home.

✓ Breakfast

To discover more of our best China tours, explore our website or contact us on

+01473356000 or enquiry@asiara-holidays.com.

Price

£1,379

– Price per person based on two-people group size.

– The price is subject to availability, based on twin or double room sharing.

– Peak season surcharges may apply during local public holidays.

Please note, this package is an example of our many exciting daily offers. We are happy to check up-to-date prices for the dates and times that suit you for your perfect package holiday, or to tailor or upgrade elements of any package. Please feel free to contact us at enquiry@asiara-holidays.com or call us on 01473 356 000.

Tour Summary

Day 1: Arrive in Beijing, meet your guide, and transfer to your hotel for leisure time.

Day 2: Visit Tiananmen Square, the Forbidden City, Jingshan Park, and the Summer Palace.

Day 3: Discover the Mutianyu section of the Great Wall, the Sacred Way, and the Beijing Olympic Village.

Day 4: Xian Explore the Temple of Heaven, Beijing Hutongs, and take a high-speed train to Xian.

Day 5: Wall Visit the Terracotta Warriors, explore Xian’s Ancient City Wall, and wander through the Muslim Quarter.

Day 6: Explore Da Cien Temple, Shaanxi History Museum, and fly to Shanghai.

Day 7: Visit Shanghai Museum, Yu Garden, Shanghai World Financial Centre, Nanjing Road, and the Bund.

Day 8: Visit the Jade Buddha Temple, explore Tianzifang, and transfer to the airport for departure.

FAQs

1. How do I get to Beijing for the start of the tour?
   • A: There are multiple options available, including international and domestic flights, as well as high-speed trains from cities like Shanghai, Xian, and Guangzhou.
2. What are the highlights of the Beijing tour on Day 2?
   • A: Day 2 includes visits to Tiananmen Square, the Forbidden City, Jingshan Park, and the Summer Palace, offering a glimpse into the historical and cultural heritage of Beijing.
3. Can I choose to visit the less crowded parts of the Great Wall?
   • A: Absolutely! Day 3 offers a trip to the Mutianyu section of the Great Wall, known for its well-preserved condition and fewer crowds compared to other sections.
4. What transportation is provided for the journey from Beijing to Xian on Day 4?
   • A: You’ll travel comfortably on a high-speed train from Beijing to Xian, ensuring a swift and scenic journey between these two iconic cities.
5. Are there any optional activities in Xian on Day 5?
   • A: Yes, you can choose to go cycling on the Ancient City Wall or enjoy a Tang Palace Dance Show in the evening, both offering unique experiences in Xian.
6. How do we travel from Xian to Shanghai on Day 6?
   • A: On Day 6, you’ll take a short flight from Xian to Shanghai, allowing you to maximize your time and explore more of China’s diverse landscapes and cultures.
7. What attractions can we expect to see in Shanghai on Day 7?
   • A: Day 7 includes visits to Shanghai Museum, Yu Garden, Shanghai World Financial Centre, Nanjing Road, and the Bund, showcasing the modern and traditional facets of this vibrant city.

Tour Map