Explore China's Ancient Capitals
Embark on an unforgettable journey through China's most iconic destinations. This private tour not only explores the Golden Triangle of Beijing, Xi'an, and Shanghai, but also visits the captivating ancient city of Pingyao, which includes many locations and set pieces featured in the 3A game of Black Myth: Wukong.
In Beijing and Xi'an, delve into the rich history and grandeur of imperial dynasties. Then, wander through Pingyao's well-preserved Ming and Qing Dynasty architecture and oriental color sculptures. Immerse yourself in its authentic charm, characterized by red lanterns, elegant courtyards, and towering gray brick walls.
This 10-day tour offers a perfect combination of imperial majesty and timeless tradition. And we are more than happy to customize your ideal tour to your needs.
Beijing-Pingyao-Xi'an-Shanghai Tour Map
Suggested 10-Day Itinerary
| Day | Highlights |
|---|---|
| 1-3 Beijing |
Forbidden City, Great Wall, Summer Palace, Temple of Heaven |
| 4-6 Pingyao |
Pingyao Ancient City, Shuanglin Temple, Wang's Family Compound |
| 7-8 Xi'an |
Terracotta Warriors, Ancient City Walls, Muslim Quarter, Big Goose Pagoda |
| 9-10 Shanghai |
The Bund, Yuyuan Garden, Shanghai Tower |
Tour 'Wow' Points
Marvel at the Stunning Painted Sculptures .
The Shuanglin Temple houses over 2,000 beautifully preserved painted sculptures dating from the 12th to the 19th centuries.
Glimpse into the Opulent Lifestyle of a Wealthy Family during the Qing Dynasty.
The Wang's Family Compound is a remarkable example of a traditional Chinese courtyard house complex located within Pingyao Ancient City.
Uncover the Forbidden City's Secrets with Our Expert Guide.
Explore the grand imperial halls and gardens, and learn about the stories of some famous royal members.
Explore a Less-crowded Area of the Great Wall.
The Mutianyu section of the Great Wall provides breathtaking vistas of the surrounding valleys and countryside.
Immerse Yourself in Hutong Life in a Local Family's Home.
Discover the heart of traditional Beijing on the immersive hutong tour. Optional cultural activities in a local family's house enhance your tour experience.
Enjoy your Culinary Aventure on the Vibrant Food Street.
Your tour guide will recommend some must-try dishes in Muslim Quarter like Rou Jia Mo, Yangrou Paomo, and Biang Biang Noodle... It's a foodies' paradise!
Experience the Grandeur of Ancient China
Witness the awe-inspiring army of life-sized terracotta warriors, a testament to the ancient Chinese empire's power and sophistication. Try your hand at crafting a tiny terracotta soldier replica to take home as a memento.
Witness Shanghai's Transformation from a Fishing Village to a Global Metropolis.
Ascend to new heights in Shanghai! And discover the architectural gems of the Bund.
Discover real reviews of Highlights Travel Family's best-rated service across trusted platforms.
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Great Trip with Tom
Tom was a Perfect Guide and made my Trip a Great expérience! Driver is also great.I visite d q lot of good places.I enjoyed BBeijing a lot more
May 2025, Sybil
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Visita a China, una experiencia histórica, moderna y gastronómica única!
"Una experiencia inolvidable. La organización del tour fue excelente, y lo que realmente marcó la diferencia fue NUESTRA GUIA LIDIA. Siempre atenta, clara en sus explicaciones, simpática, y con una actitud cálida y muy profesional en todo momento, lo que hizo que cada lugar cobrara vida. Gracias por una experiencia tan bien gestionada y humana." more
May 2025, natalia c
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short trip to peking
We do had three days in Beijing with Jiang. The organisation, driver and guiding was really great. We have been a group of 2 (couple). I think we would have needed nearly +30 percent more time to find the right queueing line at all the places. For us it was a hassel free and seamless enjoyment - to visit all the places and having a long hiking track at the great wall of china. thank you very much Jiang & china highlights & team. ps: we also tasted a lot of vegetarian food which was really great. more
May 2025, Matthias
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Suggested Itinerary
Here is a suggested itinerary. We are happy to customize a tour according to your interests and schedule.
Your local tour guide, driver and private car will be waiting for you upon arrival in Beijing. Your guide will assist you with your luggage at the airport and take you to your hotel. The rest of time is yours to explore nearby.
Our personalized tour takes you to 12 carefully selected locations within the Forbidden City. Your knowledgeable guide will not only provide insights into the city's architecture, history, feng shui, and art, but will also share the stories of the most industrious emperors.
Then we'll wander through a labyrinth of historic alleyways, named Hutong in Chinese, home to charming courtyard houses that are rapidly disappearing. You will visit a local people's house, ascend the Bell Tower for panoramic views, and learn about hutong preservation efforts.
*(Optional) A complimentary 40-minute Chinese cultural activity to enhance your tour:
- Calligraphy: Learn the art of Chinese brush painting
- Paper Cutting: Discover the intricate art of paper cutting
In the evening, savor the exquisite flavors of Peking duck, renowned for its crispy skin and juicy meat. The perfect balance of sweet bean sauce, hoisin sauce, and scallions will leave you wanting more.
Our first visit today is to the Temple of Heaven, which is a stunning Taoist complex where emperors once sought blessings for bountiful harvests. Now it is a vibrant hub for locals to do morning rituals of singing, exercising, and practicing tai chi.
Located about 1.5 hours from Beijing, the Mutianyu Great Wall features a fully restored 2.5-kilometer section dating back to 1986. To save time, we've arranged a round-trip cable car ride to the 14th watchtower, allowing you to focus on exploring the most scenic part of the Wall.
As your high speed train to Pingyao departs in the afternoon, you still have a half day to explore the Summer Palace, a sprawling imperial park known for its stunning gardens and lakes. Enjoy a leisurely 2-km walk through this picturesque park, which was originally the Imperial Court's summer retreat.
After lunch, your tour guide will transfer you to the railway station to catch a high speed train to Pingyao within 3.5 hours.
As one of China's four best-preserved ancient cities, Pingyao boasts a history spanning nearly 3,000 years. Stroll along its imposing city walls, constructed with rammed earth and brick. Explore the Rishengchang Draft Bank, one of China's earliest banks, established in 1823. Gain insights into Pingyao's rich history and its role as a financial center.
Join a unique culinary experience and learn to prepare traditional Shanxi noodles alongside local experts. Savor the fruits of your labor and other delicious local dishes.
Shuanglin Temple has become a popular spot for domestic and international travelers because of the "Black Myth: Wukong". Over 2,000 painted clay sculptures are considered some of the finest examples, known for their vibrant colors, lifelike forms, and intricate details.
Your guide and driver escort you to the station to take the high speed train to Xi'an in the late afternoon and arrive at Xi'an at about 7:30 pm.
Immerse yourself in the history of China's first emperor with a visit to the Terracotta Army. Marvel at the intricate details of these life-size terracotta soldiers, archers, and horses, buried for over 2,000 years.
Our expert guide will share fascinating insights and lead you to a local workshop where you can witness firsthand the traditional methods of terracotta warrior creation. Try your hand at making a miniature warrior with the guidance of a skilled craftsman.
Embark on a culinary adventure through the Muslim Quarter, where you'll discover a variety of local dishes. Savor iconic Xi'an dishes like Rou Jia Mo ( Chinese Hamburgers), biangbiang noodles, steamed cold noodles, and pita bread soaked in lamb soup. You will love them!
Before heading to Shanghai, you will ascend the Big Goose Pagoda, a magnificent brick structure, in the morning. You will have the chance to capture stunning photos as you admire the cityscape from above.
A leisurely bike ride along the ancient city wall is quite amazing. Enjoy the panoramic views and soak in the city's historic charm.
A hassle-free transfer to the airport for your 2-hour flight from Xi'an to Shanghai in the afternoon.
Ascend to new heights in Shanghai! Experience the thrill of soaring above the city's iconic skyscrapers, such as the Shanghai Tower. Enjoy a leisurely coffee break before embarking on a scenic cruise along the Huangpu River.
Discover the architectural gems of the Bund, a historic waterfront district that reflects Shanghai's golden age. Venture into hidden alleys, savor local delicacies at a Michelin-starred restaurant (or learn the art of takeout) and witness the city's transformation from its historic core to the modern metropolis of Pudong.
The Yu Garden, another landmark in Shanghai, is a beautiful classic Chinese garden with impressive rockery. It is composed of large natural stones arranged in a way that creates a sense of harmony and balance.
You have some free time to enjoy on your own before you leave this metropolis city. Your guide, a private car and a driver will take you to the airport in good time to get on your flight home.
Hotel Selection
—the Icing on the Cake
Boutique hotels are recommended to enrich your travel experience.
Tour Price
Based on a private tour including 4-star hotels for 2 people. Price varies depending on program, travel date, number of people and chosen hotel
Price includes:
- Private air-conditioned business car with big windows and ample space
- English speaking local guide
- Activities, hotels, and meals listed in the itinerary
- Flights/trains between itinerary cities
- 24/7 helpline for while you are traveling
Tour Code: cht-128