This 10-day classic China journey will take you on an unforgettable trip to experience the core charm of China's rich history and culture. Starting from the majestic capital Beijing, you will explore ancient wonders such as the Temple of Heaven and the Great Wall. Then head to Xi' an to visit the world-famous archaeological marvel—the Terracotta Army. Next, journey to Nanjing, the ancient capital of China, to tour historical sites like the Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum. After that, immerse yourself in the enchanting charm of Suzhou's classical gardens and water towns. Finally, conclude your journey in the vibrant Shanghai, where you can explore modern landmark buildings and traditional attractions.

Trip Features

1. Cultural Immersion: This itinerary allows you to deeply immerse yourself in the long history and diverse cultures of China. From the imperial architecture of Beijing and Xi 'an, to the revolutionary history of Nanjing, and then to the traditional garden culture of Suzhou, you will gain a comprehensive understanding of China's cultural heritage.

2. Picturesque Scenery: Along the way, you'll be treated to a variety of landscapes, from the majestic Great Wall in the mountains to the tranquil water towns of Suzhou, and the modern skyline of Shanghai.

3. Culinary Feast: Indulge in regional delicacies, including Beijing's iconic roast duck, Xi' an's mutton soup, Nanjing's salted duck, and Shanghai's xiaolongbao. Each city boasts unique flavors that are integral to its local culture.

4. Convenient transportation: With the combination of high-speed rail and comfortable buses, you can efficiently travel between cities, saving time and enjoying a smooth journey.

Trip details

 Day1:  Beijing Capital Hotel, Tian Tan

Morning: Arrive at Beijing Capital International Airport. After meeting the tour guide, proceed to the hotel in Beijing to check in and take a short rest to adjust to the time difference.

Afternoon: Visit the Temple of Heaven, a masterpiece of Chinese architecture and a symbol of ancient Chinese emperors' sacrificial rites. Built in 1420 during the Ming Dynasty, it was the place where emperors of the Ming and Qing dynasties held sacrificial ceremonies and prayed for a bountiful harvest. The Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests features a unique circular structure and exquisite interior decorations, making it the most iconic building in the Temple of Heaven architectural complex.

Evening: Enjoy traditional Chinese cuisine and savor Beijing's signature delicacy-Beijing roast duck.

Day 2: Great Wall, Ming Tombs

Morning: Explore the Great Wall, one of the Seven Wonders of the World. This monumental structure winds through mountain ranges, showcasing the extraordinary wisdom and resilience of the Chinese people. Choose from well-preserved sections like Badaling, renowned for their stunning scenery. Visitors can hike along the wall or opt for a cable car ride for a more convenient experience.

At noon, we proceeded to the Sacred Way leading to the Ming Thirteen Tombs. Flanked by solemn stone beasts and human figures, the path exuded an awe-inspiring grandeur that vividly embodied the Ming Dynasty's majestic legacy.

Day 3: Tiananmen Square, high-speed train to Xi'an, pick up and drop off at the hotel

Morning: Visit Tiananmen Square, the world's largest urban square. It is a symbol of modern China and holds significant historical importance. You can take commemorative photos in front of the Monument to the People's Heroes and the Great Hall of the People. Then enter the Forbidden City, a vast palace complex from the Ming and Qing dynasties, which boasts numerous palaces, courtyards, and precious cultural relics, serving as a treasure trove of Chinese history and art. After touring the Forbidden City, in the afternoon: Take the high-speed train to Xi 'an. Upon arrival, check into your hotel in Xi' an.

Evening: Savor local delicacies at a restaurant, including the iconic Roujiamo (a steamed bun filled with meat) and biangbiang noodles.

Day 4: Terracotta Warriors, Xi'an Mosque

Morning: Visit the Terracotta Army of the First Emperor of Qin, an underground army composed of life-sized terracotta figures buried with the First Emperor of Qin. Discovered in 1974, it is one of the most important archaeological discoveries in the world. The terracotta soldiers, horses, and chariots are exquisitely carved, offering a glimpse into the military and artistic style of ancient China.Afternoon: Head to the Xi 'an Mosque, an outstanding representative of China's Islamic architecture. It blends traditional Chinese architectural styles with Islamic elements, featuring pavilions, courtyards, and prayer halls. Afterwards, explore the nearby market where you can find various local handicrafts, snacks, and souvenirs.

Day 5: Xi 'an Small Wild Goose Pagoda, Xi' an Museum, take high-speed train to Nanjing, pick up and drop off at the hotel

Morning: Visit the renowned Buddhist pagoda, the Small Wild Goose Pagoda, in Xi 'an. Built during the Tang Dynasty, it is celebrated for its elegant architecture and historical significance. Next, explore the Xi' an Museum, which houses a vast collection of artifacts from various historical periods of the city, offering a comprehensive insight into its rich past

Afternoon: Take the high-speed train to Nanjing. Upon arrival, proceed to the hotel in Nanjing for check-in.

Evening: Enjoy a meal at the restaurant, featuring Nanjing specialties like salted duck.

Day 6: Nanjing Yuejiang Tower, Zhonghuamen Fortress, Imperial Examination Museum

Morning: Visit Yuejiang Tower, where you can overlook the beautiful scenery of the Yangtze River. Then tour Zhonghuamen Castle, one of the largest and best-preserved ancient city gates in China. Finally, stroll through the ancient town of Qinhuai River, where you can experience the unique charm of ancient Nanjing and admire traditional houses, bridges, and boats on the river.

Afternoon: Visit the Zhonghuamen Castle. Zhonghuamen is the best-preserved and most structurally complex fortress-style barbican in the world, known as the "Number One Barbican under Heaven." The joint application project of the Nanjing City Wall and other Ming and Qing Dynasty city walls in China has been listed twice on the "China World Heritage Tentative List."

The Imperial Examination Museum: Nanjing China Imperial Examination Museum was expanded from the Jiangnan Gongyuan, the largest imperial examination venue in ancient China, and is a thematic museum that systematically reflects the imperial examination system and culture of ancient China. In the evening: Enjoy a special Huaiyang-style meal.

Day 7: Nanjing-Liu Garden, Suzhou, Silk Factory

Morning: Take a bus to Suzhou. Upon arrival, visit the Liu Garden, one of the four famous gardens in China. The Liu Garden is renowned for its exquisite rockeries, pavilions, and ponds. Its ingenious garden design creates a harmonious and beautiful landscape, serving as a model of traditional Chinese garden art.

Afternoon: Visit a silk factory to learn about Suzhou's silk-making process. Suzhou is renowned for its silk production. You can observe how silk is crafted from silkworm cocoons and purchase high-quality silk products.

Day 8: Visit the ancient town of Mudu in Suzhou, then drive to Shanghai and check into the hotel

Morning: Visit Mudu Ancient Town, a quintessential Jiangnan water town. The narrow canals, stone bridges, and traditional houses create a serene and peaceful rural landscape. You can take a boat tour along the waterways to enjoy the scenic views.

Afternoon: Take a bus to Shanghai. Upon arrival, proceed to the hotel in Shanghai for check-in.

Day 9: Shanghai Yuyuan, Jade Buddha Temple, Bund

Morning: Visit the well-preserved traditional garden, Yu Garden. The garden features beautiful rockeries, pavilions, and ponds, offering a glimpse into the elegant charm of ancient Shanghai.

Afternoon: Visit the renowned Jade Buddha Temple, where two colossal jade Buddha statues are enshrined and held in high esteem. Next, proceed to the Bund, where one side features a row of historic buildings while the other showcases Pudong's modern skyline, symbolizing Shanghai's evolution from past to present.

Evening: Enjoy the beautiful night view of Shanghai at the Bund.

Day 10: Airport pickup

Morning: After breakfast, head to the airport to conclude the unforgettable classic China journey.