Splendid China and Water Town

Upon your arrival in Shanghai, your driver will welcome you at your airport’s arrival hall and get you to your hotel in a private vehicle.

One of our pro English-speaking guides shall assist you throughout your trip.

Start your day with a visit to the beautiful Yuyuan Garden, a stunning garden built during the Ming Dynasty. This historical oasis offers a peaceful retreat from the busy city and a look into the elegant lifestyle of ancient Shanghai. You’ll be able to enjoy traditional Chinese performances (such as Pingtan) being performed as you explore the garden.

You’ll get to explore some of Shanghai’s Nongtang alleys, narrow lanes lined with historic Shikumen houses which showcase the city's traditional lifestyle.

The Bund is a historical district known for an iconic waterfront promenade which offers stunning views of colonial-era architecture juxtaposed against the towering skyscrapers of Pudong. You’ll get to walk along the scenic Huangpu River and soak in the historical significance and the vibrant energy of Shanghai's financial district.

Xintiandi is a chic shopping and entertainment district which features restored Shikumen houses that now host trendy boutiques, cafes, and restaurants. Enjoy a leisurely lunch and experience the modern, cosmopolitan lifestyle that defines contemporary Shanghai.

You’ll finish the day at the French Concession, an area known for its beautiful European-style villas and tree-lined streets. The French Concession represents the sophisticated and stylish side of Shanghai, contrasting beautifully with its traditional style Nongtang alleys.

Today, your guide will escort you to the high-speed train station for a half-hour bullet train ride to Suzhou.

On arrival, your private guide will be ready to welcome you at the arrival hall, and transfer to your hotel with a private car and driver. Your guide will help you with luggage and hotel check-in as well.

You’ll visit the exquisite Lingering Garden, a UNESCO World Heritage Site celebrated for its classical Chinese landscaping and serene atmosphere. Explore the winding pathways, tranquil ponds, and intricately designed pavilions, and marvel at the harmonious blend of rocks, plants, and water features that define this historic garden.

Next, you’ll delve into the rich history of Suzhou with a visit to the iconic Panmen Gate, one of the few remaining ancient city gates in China. Explore the towering walls, ornate pagodas, and historic landmarks that surround this ancient site.

Continuing your journey, you’ll immerse yourself in the serene ambiance of Hanshan Temple, a revered Buddhist sanctuary with a history spanning over a thousand years. Admire the elegant pagodas, intricate sculptures, and tranquil gardens that grace this historic temple complex.

Afterward, we'll stroll through the charming Pingjiang Historic Street, known for its traditional architecture, artisan workshops, and rich cultural heritage. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere as you explore local shops, sample street food, and experience the timeless ambiance of this historic district.

You’ll conclude today’s tour at the Suzhou No.1 Silk Mill. Here, you'll witness the artistry behind Suzhou's renowned silk industry. Learn about the silk production process, from harvesting cocoons to weaving and dyeing, and admire the exquisite silk products showcased in the mill's showroom.

Embark on an unforgettable full-day Suzhou Classic Tour. Explore Tongli Water Town, a picturesque ancient town renowned for its tranquil canals, historic bridges, and well-preserved Ming and Qing dynasty architecture. Wander through narrow alleys and visit traditional tea houses, offering a glimpse into the town's rich cultural heritage.

Continue your journey to the Humble Administrator's Garden, a renowned classical garden and UNESCO World Heritage Site. Enjoy the beautiful landscaping, peaceful ponds, pavilions, and lush greenery, all carefully designed to blend with nature.

Enjoy your free time until your guide comes and escort you to the high-speed train station, where you’ll take a 6.5-hour bullet train ride to Xi'an.

Then you will arrive in Xi’an by high-speed train station. On arrival, your personal guide will be ready to welcome you at the arrival hall, and transport you to your hotel with a private vehicle & driver. You’ll also be helped with luggage and hotel check-in.

Depart from your hotel and venture to the magnificent UNESCO World Heritage-listed site of the Terracotta Army: rows of 7,000 life-sized terracotta figures and horses buried beside Emperor Qin Shihuang in his majestic mausoleum. Browse the exhibitions of the museum to gain further insight into the intriguing history of the tomb. 

Later this afternoon, take a walk on the Bell & Drum Tower Square and from where you could pay an outer visit of the two towers. The two towers were also built in the Ming Dynasty and the Drum Tower is 4 years older than the Bell Tower.

At the Muslim Quarter food street, you will meet lots of local food and snacks, as well as some little souvenirs. If you are interested in local food, it is a good place to satisfy your stomach. 

At last, you’ll visit the Great Mosque, a major site for the Muslim community in Xi’an. This mosque, different from the mosques we usually see, is more like a traditional Chinese garden. For example, you will see Chinese pavilions with painted beams and engraved ridgepoles. At last, transfer you back to hotel.

Begin your journey at the Shaanxi History Museum, where you'll delve deep into the past. This museum houses an extensive collection of artifacts, ranging from ancient art and sculptures to historical relics, providing a comprehensive overview of the region's history.

Next, we'll take you to the iconic Big Wild Goose Pagoda (Dayanta), an architectural marvel that dates back to the Tang Dynasty. Ascend this ancient structure and marvel at the breathtaking views of Xi'an. Learn about its historical and religious significance as you explore its tranquil surroundings.

Enjoy your free time until your guide comes and escort you to the high-speed train station.

Take a 4.5-hour bullet train from Xi'an to Beijing with second class seat.

Then you will arrive in Beijing by high-speed train station. On arrival, your private guide will be ready to welcome you at the arrival hall, and transfer to your hotel with a private car and driver. Your guide will help you with luggage and hotel check-in, and ensure your arrival is worry-free.

After breakfast, your guide will pick you up at your hotel and take you to Tian'anmen Square, the world's largest public square and a symbol of China. 

Walk across the square and explore the awe-inspiring Forbidden City. With over 8,728 rooms, it's the world’s largest ancient palace complex China's best-preserved ancient building collection.

Later, take a 15-minute walk to Jingshan Park for a panoramic view of modern Beijing and the Forbidden City.

After lunch, enjoy a rickshaw tour through the historic Hutongs, immersing yourself in local life.

Today, you'll journey to the Mutianyu section of the Great Wall. You'll ascend to the wall via cable car, where you can get a stunning aerial view of the wall and its surroundings. Once you're atop the wall, you'll be able to stroll along its storied pathways, watchtowers, and taking in the vast, panoramic views of the area's rolling hills and valleys.

In the afternoon, you’ll head over to the courtyards of the Temple of Heaven Park. Your tour guide will share the temple’s history and stories, showing you what emperor worship was like. You'll visit major sites within the park, including the Hall of Prayer for Good Harvest, the Echo Wall, the Nine-Dragon Cypress, and the Circular Mound Altar, among others.

Afterwards, you’ll get to join in a Tai Chi session with locals at the park. This traditional Chinese martial art is a beloved morning ritual practiced daily by Beijing residents. It's a unique opportunity to connect with locals through this ancient practice.

Enjoy your free time until your guide come and escort you to airport for your onward flight.