Unlock the Secrets of China's Ancient Capitals
This tour is designed for travelers who wish to experience the rich history and classic culture of China. Over the course of one week, you will visit three of the top four ancient capitals of China. Starting from the last dynasties, you will delve deep into Chinese history. Wear the attire of the Tang Dynasty, savor snacks from the Qing Dynasty, stroll through the markets of the Han Dynasty, and handle weapons from the Qin Dynasty. What a time-travel journey!
You also have the option to customize your trip based on the sample itinerary provided below.
Tour 'Wow' Points
Enjoy Your Own Pace with a Personal Guide to Discover the Forbidden City
Explore court life in the most gilded imperial palace complex. Unveil the lives of China's royal family.
Explore a Top-Ranked Section of the Great Wall
The Great Wall at Mutianyu is ranked top among all parts of the Great Wall on TripAdvisor. Walk leisurely through the watchtowers, enjoying a superb view of the Mutianyu Great wall snaking across the mountains.
Unearth Secrets of the Terracotta Army and its "Hidden Collectibles"
Marvel at the 2,000-year-old clay army that once guarded Emperor Qin's tomb. Join a guided tour to see and touch the artifacts from the same era, including the first unearthed terracotta figure. Immerse yourself in the role of an archaeologist by participating in a conservation workshop.
See Art Enlightened by the Serenity of the Buddha
Visit one of the top four grottoes of China. Be amazed by the incredible grotto art dating back more than 1,500 years. Catch the magnificent view of the grottoes illuminated at sunset.
Enjoy a Kung Fu Show in the Legendary Shaolin Temple
Visit the Shaolin Temple, which is the birthplace and home of Chinese kung fu. Experience the culture of Zen and the spirit of Chinese kung fu.
Experience a Chinese Version of "Tomb Raider"
Visit Luoyang Ancient Tomb Museum and go underground to witness the exquisite sculptures, murals, and coffins. Experience the mysterious burial culture of the ancient China.
Immerse Yourself in the China of Millennia Ago
Feel the atmosphere of early Chinese history in the capital of 13 early dynasties. The beautiful ancient city gate and the busy streets with traditional buildings tell of Luoyang's past glory. Slip into an embroidered hanfu robe to become a Chinese who lived 1300 years ago
Savor Beijing's Soul in Hutong: From Street Eats to Imperial Delicacies
Feast on street favorites like roast buns with minced pork and flatbread stuffed with beef, then unwind with a palace-inspired afternoon tea featuring delicate pastries and tea rituals—a harmonious blend of humble and refined Beijing.
Appreciate the Elegant National Flower of China (for tours in April)
Visit an amazing peony park with the typical architecture of the Tang Dynasty. Understand why peony can be the national flower of China.
Itinerary Quick Look
Here is a suggested itinerary. We are happy to customize a tour according to your interests.
Your private guide will be ready to meet and greet you at the arrival hall in Beijing. A comfortable private car with an experienced driver will transfer you directly to your hotel. Your guide will help you to check-in.
After breakfast, Starting with Tian'anmen Square You will visit the famous sites on Beijing's central axis, including the Forbidden City.
In the Forbidden City. Your guide will help you explore carefully-selected places in the Forbidden City. In addition to giving a background introduction on architecture, history, and art of the city, your guide will explain to you stories of the famous figures in the 2 dynasties and help you to trace elements of their lives here.
Enjoy a hutong with a rickshaw. Your guide will explain the traditional residential houses in Beijing. Taste some traditional snacks loved by locals and desserts that were once exclusive to the royal court.
In the morning, your guide and driver will take you to the Temple of Heaven – a place where emperors used to pray for a good harvest. The Park is full of life. Immerse yourself in the lives of local people – now and centuries ago – through joining in local elderly people's morning activities.
In the afternoon, hike the Great Wall at Mutianyu. In order to save time, we will arrange round-trip cable car rides to ascend and descend the Wall, instead of spending about 40 minutes climbing steps. On the Wall, you will have free time to walk around, after your guide does some introductions.
First stop, the Summer Palace — an oasis of beauty and tranquility situated in northwest Beijing. Known as China's best-preserved royal park, the Summer Palace is a landmark of Chinese horticulture and landscape design that has long been celebrated as 'The Museum of Royal Gardens'. Expect a leisurely 2-hour stroll through its picture-perfect landscapes and historic structures which reflect the art of classical Chinese garden design.
Take a bullet train from Beijing to Luoyang, which is actually as important as Xi'an in Chinese history. After arriving in Luoyang, enjoy a night tour including Lijing Ancient City Gate and Luoyang Old Town.
Visit Luoyang Ancient Tomb Museum in the morning. Learn about the mysterious tradition and strict burial system in ancient China.
Experience an awe-inspiring journey through time at the Longmen Grottoes, one of the four largest grottoes in China. Stay to enjoy the magnificent view when the grottoes are lit up at sunset
Option in April: If you have no interest in Luoyang Ancient Tomb Museum and you come in April, it is recommended to visit a peony park to enjoy the national flower of China.
Embark on a journey steeped in legend and mystery, right to the heart of China's martial arts heritage - the Shaolin Temple. This sacred site is not only celebrated for its significant history and its critical role in Chinese Buddhism, but also for its unparalleled connection to martial arts or 'Wushu'.
Marvel at the prowess and dexterity of the Shaolin monks, who carry the legacy of this ancient discipline. The temple may well be the most famous in all of China, etching an indelible imprint on the country's cultural landscape.
Adding to the allure of this tour is the included Shaolin Kungfu Show. Hosted in a quaint, intimate theatre that only accommodates about 200 people, these shows are a must-see, offering a glimpse into the incredible world of Chinese martial arts.
Take a bullet train from Luoyang to Xi'an in the late afternoon.
Enjoy a relaxing one-hour private ride with your guide to the Terracotta Warriors and Horses Museum.
Enter the Terracotta Warriors Museum via tram, and witness three captivating pits that display the concealed power of Emperor Qin Shi Huang's extensive military force. Your guide will provide insights into their fabrication and safeguarding, emphasizing the precise workmanship, lasting strength, and the former colorful brilliance of these historical sentinels.
Get up close with the first restored Warriors, learn the restoration story, handle Qin Dynasty relics in the Conservation Laboratory.
Explore the Huaqing Palace, a Tang Dynasty retreat famous for its hot springs and the love story of Emperor Xuanzong and Yang Guifei, and optionally, enjoy the popular 'Everlasting Regret' show.
Visit the ancient City Wall in the morning and feel the glory of China's ancient capital before saying goodbye to Xi'an. Then, transfer to the airport for your flight back home or to your next destination.
Hotel Selection
—the Icing on the Cake
Boutique hotels are recommended to enrich your travel experience.
Tour Price
Price includes:
- Private air-conditioned business car with big windows and ample space
- English-speaking local guide
- Activities, hotels, high-speed train tickets, and meals listed in the itinerary
- 24/7 helpline for while you are traveling
Tour code: cht-46