Under the Sky of China: Beijing, Xi’an & Shanghai
The classic cultural route between imperial capital, Terracotta Army, Jiangnan, and Shanghai
Spirit of the journey
A cultural itinerary of 10 days connecting Beijing, Xi’an, Shanghai, Tongli, and Suzhou. The program combines the major landmarks of imperial China — Forbidden City, Great Wall, Temple of Heaven, Summer Palace — with the Terracotta Army of Xi’an, the gardens and canals of Jiangnan, and the contemporary energy of Shanghai.
A First Cultural Discovery of China
This 10-day tour provides a clear reading of the major Chinese symbols: Beijing for imperial history, Xi’an for dynastic origins and the Terracotta Army, Shanghai for modernity, then Tongli and Suzhou for the elegance of Jiangnan.
Between Ancient Capitals, Gardens, and Modernity
The program alternates between must-see sites, ancient neighborhoods, cultural expériences, regional gastronomy, high-speed trains, canals, classic gardens, and urban views. It allows travelers to discover China in a balanced format, suitable for first-time visitors.
Itinerary
Highlights
- Imperial Beijing: Forbidden City, Temple of Heaven, Summer Palace, hutongs, and Great Wall of Mutianyu
- Xi’an: Terracotta Army, city walls, Muslim Quarter, Small Wild Goose Pagoda, and dynastic culture
- Shanghai: Old City, Yu Garden, Bund, skyline, museums, and contemporary lifestyle
- Tongli and Suzhou: Canals, classic gardens, alleys, Jiangnan architecture, and softer atmosphere
- Cultural expériences: calligraphy, opera performance, rickshaw or bike ride depending on the confirmed version
- Gastronomy: Peking duck, Xi’an specialties, Shanghai cuisine, and local addresses
- Efficient transport: high-speed train Beijing → Xi’an and flight or train to Shanghai depending on the confirmed version
- Balanced program between major highlights, lively neighborhoods, gardens, and modernity
Well-located hotels, visually selected and rhythm designed for discerning travelers.
Local French-speaking or English-speaking guides based on stages and availability. Ground assistance during important program moments.
A balance between iconic sites, major cities, ancient neighborhoods, Jiangnan gardens, local addresses, and moments of reprieve.
Who is it for?
- Clients seeking a first cultural trip to China
- First-time travelers wanting to combine Beijing, Xi’an, Shanghai, and Jiangnan
- Couples, families, or small groups interested in history, heritage, gardens, and big cities
- Travelers interested in the Great Wall, the Terracotta Army, hutongs, Suzhou, and Shanghai
- Agencies looking for a classic, balanced, and easily customizable product
To check before quoting
- Exact travel dates and availability of tickets for the Forbidden City
- Choice between flight or train between Xi’an and Shanghai
- Desired hotel standard in Beijing, Xi’an, and Shanghai
- Feasibility of Day 9 between Tongli, Suzhou, and Shanghai based on client pace
- Availability of French-speaking guides based on stages
- Desired activity level: biking on the walls, walking on the Great Wall, long or more gentle days
- Necessary reservations for shows, restaurants, or specific expériences
- High-traffic periods: weekends, Chinese holidays, and public holidays
Day by day
Jour 1 Arrival in Beijing Open
Arrival in Beijing, welcome and transfer to the hotel. Depending on arrival time, a gentle stroll in the surroundings or free time to rest. Overnight in Beijing.
Jour 2 Imperial Beijing: The Grandeur of the Ming and Qing Open
Visit Tian’anmen Square and the Forbidden City, followed by a discovery of the Temple of Heaven at the group's pace. Overnight in Beijing.
Jour 3 In the Footsteps of the Great Wall and the Art of Opera Open
Excursion to the Great Wall of Mutianyu. Local lunch, then return to Beijing. Peking opera performance optionally or based on the confirmed version. Overnight in Beijing.
Jour 4 Spirituality, Imperial Elegance, and Life in the Hutongs Open
Visit the Lama Temple, then explore the Summer Palace. Depending on the group's pace, rickshaw ride in the hutongs or local expérience at the end of the day. Overnight in Beijing.
Jour 5 From the Imperial Capital to the Gateway of the Silk Road Open
Departure by high-speed train to Xi’an. Depending on the arrival time, exploration of the Small Wild Goose Pagoda, Xi’an Museum, or an ancient neighborhood. Overnight in Xi’an.
Jour 6 The Eternal Warriors and the Tang Heritage Open
Excursion to Lintong to explore the Terracotta Army. Return to Xi’an for an introduction to calligraphy or a walk in the Muslim Quarter depending on timing. Overnight in Xi’an.
Jour 7 From Millennial Walls to Glass Skyscrapers Open
Bike ride or walk on the city walls of Xi’an depending on weather and group level. Explore the Muslim Quarter, then transfer to the airport or train station for Shanghai depending on the confirmed version. Overnight in Shanghai.
Jour 8 Between Refined Traditions and Dazzling Modernity Open
Discover the Old City of Shanghai, Yu Garden, and the Bund. Depending on pace, ascend to the Oriental Pearl Tower or visit a museum. Overnight in Shanghai.
Jour 9 Gardens, Canals, and Timeless Charm Open
Excursion to Jiangnan: discover Tongli or Suzhou based on the selected pace. Option to visit a classic garden, canals, and an ancient neighborhood. Return to Shanghai at the end of the day. Overnight in Shanghai.
Jour 10 Last Moments on Chinese Soil Open
Depending on flight schedule, last stroll in Fuxing Park, the Bund, the French Concession, or Shanghai Museum. Transfer to the airport for the return flight.
Included
- Selected accommodations, double or twin room basis with breakfasts
- Transfers for airports, train stations, and hotels
- Private transportation with driver for mentioned visits
- High-speed train Beijing → Xi’an based on the confirmed version
- Flight or train Xi’an → Shanghai based on the confirmed version
- French-speaking or English-speaking guides based on stages and availability
- Visits, entries, and expériences mentioned in the final quote
- Meals mentioned in the confirmed program
- Local assistance before and during the trip
Not included
- International flights
- Personal insurance
- Tips
- Personal expenses
- Beverages not included
- Meals, beverages, or visits not mentioned in the final quote
- Optional activities
- Visas or any potential formalities
- Options and supplements not confirmed in the final quote