16-Day Great China Tour from Beijing: Qufu, Xuzhou, Nanjing, Suzhou, Shanghai, Luoyang, Xi'an, Wutai, Datong | Ticket Admission Included

What you'll experience

Highlights

16 days

Day-by-day itinerary

1. 1

   Day 1 — Beijing

   Welcome to China!
   After completing border and customs formalities, an assistant will be waiting for you to provide essential information and accompany you on the transfer from the airport to the hotel. Enjoy some free time upon arrival.
   06:30 p.m. - We'll meet our guide and fellow travelers in the hotel reception area. Then, we'll set out to explore the city. We'll take a transfer to Wangfujing Street, a lively pedestrian and commercial area filled with shops and restaurants. Dinner will be included, followed by a return to the hotel.

   Meals: B: Excluded, L: Excluded, D: IncludedStay: Mercure beijing downtown(No.16 Jia,Xi Da Wang Road, Chaoyang, CP 100124,BEIJING)
2. 2

   Day 2 — Beijing

   07:30 a.m. - An exciting day awaits us as we explore the highlights of China's capital. We'll enjoy a full-day guided tour, starting with a walk through the immense Tiananmen Square, one of the largest squares in the world. From here, we'll admire the Great National Theater, also known as the Beijing Opera House.
   Next, we'll visit the majestic Forbidden City, the most impressive architectural complex in China, where 24 emperors ruled for nearly 500 years. We'll also visit Jingshan Park, home to Coal Hill, one of Beijing's best-preserved imperial gardens. Climbing to the top of the hill, we'll be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the Forbidden City—weather permitting.
   Lunch will be included.
   In the afternoon, we'll experience local life with a tricycle ride through the traditional Hutong neighborhoods, where we can observe daily life, visit charming shops, and step inside a Siheyuan, a traditional courtyard house.
   We'll then conclude our tour with a visit to the stunning Summer Palace, the former imperial retreat of the Qing Dynasty, renowned for its exquisite gardens and tranquil lakes.
   06:30 p.m. - Tour ends. You may return to the hotel by bus or choose to stay in the city center (in which case, the return to the hotel will be at your own expense. We recommend carrying the hotel's address written in Chinese to show the taxi driver).
   Note: Due to heritage conservation measures and enhanced visitor safety, the governing body of the Forbidden City has temporarily reduced daily visitor capacity. As a result, we cannot guarantee access to this site. If the visit is not possible, it will be replaced with a tour of the Confucius Temple and the Lama Temple, both iconic landmarks in Chinese history and culture.

   Meals: B: Included, L: Included, D: ExcludedStay: Mercure beijing downtown(No.16 Jia,Xi Da Wang Road, Chaoyang, CP 100124,BEIJING)
3. 3

   Day 3 — Beijing

   Total distance covered: 190 km.
   Scenery: Expansive urban landscapes as we leave Beijing, followed by lush green mountains surrounding the Great Wall.
   Note: Due to the high number of visitors at the Great Wall, it may be advisable to walk part of the way to avoid delays on the funicular ascent.
   07:30 a.m. - Departure from Beijing. Today, we'll embark on an unforgettable excursion to the Great Wall.
   09:30 a.m. - Great Wall of China (Mutianyu section). We'll arrive at this awe-inspiring architectural marvel, whose history spans over 2,000 years. Our visit includes a cable car ride up and down to one of the most scenic sections of the wall. You'll have free time to explore, enjoy the commercial area, visit the Exhibition Center, and have lunch at your leisure.
   Returning to Beijing, we'll make a stop at the 798 Art District, a vibrant hub of contemporary art housed in a former military factory.
   Later, we'll visit the Temple of Heaven, one of China's most important sacred complexes and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
   To unwind after an exciting day, we'll take part in a relaxing Tai Chi class and enjoy a soothing foot massage.
   We'll bid farewell to Beijing with a traditional Peking duck dinner (included).
   09:00 p.m. - Return to the hotel.

   Meals: B: Included, L: Excluded, D: IncludedStay: Mercure beijing downtown(No.16 Jia,Xi Da Wang Road, Chaoyang, CP 100124,BEIJING)
4. 4

   Day 4 — Beijing - Taian - Qufu

   Total distance covered: 560 km (470 km on the high-speed train)
   Scenery: Scenic train journey with interesting landscapes. Stunning views in the Taishan Mountain area.
   Notes: Wear comfortable shoes, as we will be climbing one of China's sacred mountains. Train schedules are subject to change. Each traveler must carry their own luggage on the train.
   06:30 a.m. - After breakfast, we'll head to the train station to board one of China's high-speed trains.
   08:35 a.m. - Departure from Beijing. Traveling at 300 km/h, we'll reach Taian in just two hours. This city, located at the foot of Mount Taishan, is home to one of the most sacred mountains in China.
   Upon arrival, we'll visit the Dai Temple, a magnificent Taoist complex dating back to the 11th century. This temple marks the beginning of the traditional pilgrimage route up the mountain.
   Lunch will be included.
   Afterward, we'll take a cable car up to the "Gates of Heaven" on Mount Taishan. The final stretch must be completed on foot, climbing its steep staircase alongside hundreds of pilgrims.
   05:45 p.m. - Departure from Taian. We'll continue our journey by bus along China's excellent highways.
   07:15 p.m. - Qufu. Arrival in the hometown of Confucius, the great Chinese philosopher of the 5th century B.C. and founder of Confucianism. This small yet historically rich city boasts a vibrant historic center, perfect for an evening stroll.

   Meals: B: Included, L: Included, D: ExcludedStay: Nishan binshe(189 Shengshui Hubei Road, Nishan town,qufushi,Jining,Shandong)
5. 5

   Day 5 — Qufu - Xuzhou

   Total distance covered: 185 km
   Scenery: Lush green landscapes, rolling hills, and vast agricultural plains.
   07:30 a.m. - We'll begin our day exploring Qufu, the city of Confucius. We'll witness the opening ceremony at the Confucius Temple, a vibrant and colorful musical ritual (please note that this event may not take place on certain dates). Our visit includes entry to both the Confucius Temple and the Confucius Mansion, offering a deeper insight into the philosopher's legacy.
   10:30 a.m. - Departure from Qufu. We'll continue our journey by coach.
   01:00 p.m. - Xuzhou. Lunch will be included.
   Afterward, we'll visit the impressive Underground Mausoleum of the Han Emperor, where we'll be amazed by the terracotta army displayed in the museum—similar to the famous warriors of Xian, though on a smaller scale.
   Later, we'll pass by the picturesque Lake Yunlong, a scenic spot in the heart of Xuzhou.
   Around 5:00 p.m., we'll arrive at our hotel. After check-in, you'll have free time to explore this dynamic commercial city at your own pace.

   Meals: B: Included, L: Included, D: ExcludedStay: Hyatt regency xuzhou(29 Haihai E Road, Gulou District, Xuzhou, Jiangsu)
6. 6

   Day 6 — Xuzhou - Nanjing

   Total distance traveled by high-speed train: 350 km
   Scenery: Vast agricultural plains of Jiaungsu pprovince.
   Note: the train schedule is subject to change. Passengers must carry their own luggage. Please do not pack any sprays/aerosols larger than 100ml each, as they could be removed at the security point.
   10:00 a.m. - Departure from Xuzhou. Transfer to train station to borad a high-speed train (schedule departure at 11.51 a.m.). In just over an hour and fifteen minutes, we will cover 350 km to Nanjing, traveling across vast agricultural plains.
   01:15 p.m. - Nanjing. Arrival in this vibrant city of eight million residents, often regarded as one of the most pleasant cities in China. We'll be captivated by the dynamic commercial life and modern energy of this metropolis.
   Our tour will take us to Purple Mountain, where we'll visit the Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum, a tribute to the founding father of modern China. We'll also explore the Lingu Temple, a picturesque site rich in history and cultural significance.
   06:00 p.m. - Arrival at the hotel and check-in.
   We recommend taking an evening stroll through Nanjing's lively streets, filled with shops, restaurants, and a vibrant atmosphere. Free time to explore at your leisure. Overnight stay in Nanjing.

   Meals: B: Included, L: Excluded, D: ExcludedStay: Novotel nanjing central(68 Huaihai Rd, XinJieKou, Qinhuai Qu, Nanjing Shi, Jiangsu Sheng, China), Hilton nanjing riverside(1 Huaibin Rd, Gulou Qu, Nanjing Shi, Jiangsu Sheng, China, 210011)
7. 7

   Day 7 — Nanjing - Suzhou - Tongli - Shanghai

   Total distance covered: 350 km
   Scenery: Vast plains and serene lakes.
   Note: Depending on logistics, we may visit Suzhou before Tongli or vice versa.
   07:30 a.m. - Departure from Nanjing as we continue our journey south.
   10:45 a.m. - Suzhou. Arrival in this historic city, famous for its exquisite gardens, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Suzhou was once the world´s leading silk producer and has long been associated with beauty and refinement.
   Lunch will be included
   Our visit includes entry to the Garden of the Humble Administrator, a stunning example of classical Chinese landscape design. Afterward, you'll have free time to stroll along the charming Pingjiang Road, a picturesque street lined with traditional shops, teahouses, and canals.
   03:15 p.m. - Departure from Suzhou.
   04:00 p.m. - Tongli. Arrival in this enchanting water town, known for its historic canals, traditional houses, and tranquil atmosphere. We'll enjoy a scenic boat ride through its winding waterways, offering a unique perspective of this charming destination.
   06:00 p.m. - Departure from Tongli.
   08:00 p.m. - Shanghai. Arrival in China's most dynamic metropolis.

   Meals: B: Included, L: Included, D: ExcludedStay: Novotel shanghai atlantis(28 Pu Dong Avenue 200120 SHANGHAI CHINA)
8. 8

   Day 8 — Shanghai

   08:30 a.m. - This morning, we'll explore the highlights of this fascinating city.
   Our tour will begin in Pudong, Shanghai's striking financial district, located across the Huangpu River. We'll admire its futuristic skyline, including the iconic Pearl Tower, and take a stroll along the elevated walkways, offering breathtaking views of the modern skyscrapers.
   Next, we'll board a local ferry to cross the river, allowing us to take in Shanghai's impressive cityscape from the water while observing daily life along the bustling waterfront.
   Upon arrival, we'll explore the Bund, home to a collection of grand 19th-century European-style buildings, a striking contrast to the modern skyline of Pudong.
   Our tour will continue in Shanghai's Old City, where we'll visit the Yuyuan Garden, a beautiful private garden built during the Ming Dynasty. Here, we'll also experience a traditional tea ceremony, an integral part of Chinese culture.
   We'll then pass through Xintiandi, one of the city's most fashionable districts, known for its blend of historical charm and modern elegance.
   Lunch will be included.
   In the afternoon, we'll visit Tianzifang, a former residential area famous for its narrow, labyrinth-like streets, lined with artisanal shops, trendy boutiques, and art galleries.
   We'll conclude our tour with a final stroll along the Bund, appreciating its historical architecture and the European influence on the city's past.
   06:30 p.m. - Our tour will come to an end. You may return to the hotel by bus or choose to stay in the city center (if so, return to the hotel will be at your own expense. We recommend carrying the hotel's address written in Chinese to show the taxi driver).

   Meals: B: Included, L: Included, D: ExcludedStay: Novotel shanghai atlantis(28 Pu Dong Avenue 200120 SHANGHAI CHINA)
9. 9

   Day 9 — Shanghai - Luoyang

   Distance traveled by high-speed train: 1,020 km
   Scenery: A diverse landscape of plains, mountains, rice paddies, and lush greenery, all enjoyed from the comfort of our high-speed train.
   Note: Train schedules are subject to change. Each passenger must carry their own luggage. Do not pack sprays or aerosols larger than 100ml in your suitcase, as they may be confiscated at the security checkpoint.
   05:30 a.m. - Departure from the hotel. A picnic-style breakfast will be provided. Transfer to the railway station.
   07:17 a.m. - We’ll board one of China’s high-speed trains for an exciting journey across the country. Sit back and enjoy the ever-changing scenery as we pass through vast plains, terraced rice fields, and mountainous landscapes.
   01:10 p.m. - Luoyang – Longmen. Arrival. Lunch will be included.
   After lunch, we’ll visit the awe-inspiring Longmen Caves, an extraordinary collection of Buddhist carvings stretching over a kilometer along the rocky cliffs of the Yi River. With more than 100,000 Buddha statues etched into the rock, this UNESCO-listed site is one of China’s most remarkable cultural treasures. We’ll explore the most impressive caves on foot and then take a boat ride for a unique perspective from the water.
   Note: The boat ride may be canceled due to adverse weather conditions or river flooding.
   05:30 p.m. - Departure from Longmen.
   06:15 p.m. - Luoyang. Arrival and transfer to the Old Town, where we’ll pass through its impressive city walls and immerse ourselves in the vibrant atmosphere of its illuminated streets. This experience offers a glimpse into the daily life of a historic provincial capital in inland China.
   Return to the hotel. Overnight stay in Luoyang.

   Meals: B: Included, L: Included, D: ExcludedStay: Ramada luoyang downtown(76 Jinguyuan Road Xi Gong District, Henan, Luoyang, Henan 471000), Mercure luoyang(Kaiyuan Avenue Geological and Mining Building, Luolong District, Luoyang City)
10. 10

    Day 10 — Luoyang - White Horse Monastery - Sanmexia - Xi‘an

    Total distance covered: 410 km
    Scenery: Pleasant landscapes along the route.
    07:20 a.m. - Departure from the hotel.
    08:10 a.m. - White Horse Buddhist Monastery. Arrival at this vast and historically significant monastery, a major center for Buddhist study and pilgrimage, welcoming practitioners from around the world.
    09:30 a.m. - Departure from the monastery.
    11:30 a.m. - Sanmenxia. Arrival in this historic city, located along the Yellow River. We'll visit the Baolun Temple, home to an impressive high pagoda, and then explore the renowned Guo State Museum, considered one of the finest in China. Here, we'll see the remarkable funeral chariots of the ancient Guo State, offering a fascinating glimpse into early Chinese civilization.
    Lunch will be included.
    02:30 p.m. - Departure from Sanmenxia. As we continue eastward, we'll pass by the majestic Mount Hua, one of China's five sacred mountains, revered for its dramatic peaks and spiritual significance.
    06:30 p.m. - Xian. Arrival in this legendary city, once the starting point of the Silk Road and home to an extraordinary historical and cultural heritage. Overnight stay in Xian.

    Meals: B: Included, L: Included, D: ExcludedStay: Novotel xian scpg(China, Shaanxi, Xi´an, Lianhu, Weiyang Rd, 33), Delta by marriott xian(West of Longshu North Road, No. 22, Lian Hu Qu, Xi´An, Shaanxi, China, 710014)
11. 11

    Day 11 — Xi’an

    Total distance covered: 105 km
    Important Note: A passport is required for entry to the Terracotta Army Museum.
    08:00 a.m. - We'll start the day with a visit to the Terracotta Army, one of the most extraordinary archaeological discoveries in the world. This vast underground army, with thousands of life-sized clay soldiers, was created to protect the tomb of China's first emperor, Qin Shi Huang. Located less than an hour from downtown Xian, this UNESCO World Heritage Site offers a fascinating glimpse into ancient Chinese history.
    Free time for lunch.
    01:50 p.m. - Departure from the Terracotta Army Museum.
    02:50 p.m. - Xian. Upon arrival, we'll visit the Small Wild Goose Pagoda, an elegant Buddhist structure dating back to the Tang Dynasty.
    Next, we'll explore the walled city center, walking through the vibrant Muslim Quarter, where centuries of cultural and religious influences have shaped the city's identity. We'll enter the Great Mosque of Xian, a unique blend of Chinese and Islamic architecture.
    Our tour will also include entrance to the Drum Tower, where we'll enjoy a short performance of traditional Chinese percussion instruments.
    After the guided tour, you'll have free time to continue exploring the bustling historic center at your own pace.
    06:30 p.m. - End of our visit. You may return to the hotel by bus or choose to stay in the city center to explore further on your own.

    Meals: B: Included, L: Excluded, D: ExcludedStay: Novotel xian scpg(China, Shaanxi, Xi´an, Lianhu, Weiyang Rd, 33), Delta by marriott xian(West of Longshu North Road, No. 22, Lian Hu Qu, Xi´An, Shaanxi, China, 710014)
12. 12

    Day 12 — Xian - Lingfen - Clan Wang Mansion - Pingyao

    Total distance covered: 530 km (365 km on the high-speed train)
    Scenery: Mountainous areas with stunning landscapes visible from the train.
    Note: Train schedules are subject to change. Each passenger must carry their own luggage during the train journey.
    06:45 a.m. - Departure from the hotel. Transfer to the train station.
    08:08 a.m. - Departure from Xian on a high-speed train. In less than three hours, we'll arrive in Linfeng, enjoying breathtaking views along the way.
    11:30 a.m. - Mansion of the Wang Clan. Arrival at this grand residence, built between the 17th and 19th centuries by a wealthy and influential family. This architectural masterpiece showcases intricate courtyards, elaborate carvings, and the opulence of ancient Chinese nobility.
    Lunch will be included.
    01:00 p.m. - Departure from the Mansion of the Wang Clan.
    03:00 p.m. - Pingyao. Arrival in China's best-preserved historical city, home to over 4,000 ancient buildings and designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Walking through its charming streets feels like stepping back in time, offering a glimpse into traditional Chinese life.
    Our visit includes an all-access pass to explore the city´s highlights, including its temples, mansions, and ancient city walls.

    Meals: B: Included, L: Included, D: ExcludedStay: Fengyan jianguo hotel(26 Shuguang Rd, Pingyao, Jinzhong Shi, Shanxi Sheng), Four seasons kylin(655W+GJ9 76 Chenghuang Temple Street, Pingyao, Jin Zhong Shi, Shanxi, China, 031100)
13. 13

    Day 13 — Pingyao - Wutai

    Total distance covered: 330 km
    Scenery: A changing landscape of green fields, small towns, dense forests, and mountains as we approach Wutai Mountain.
    Note: Wutai Mountain is a sacred pilgrimage site. We kindly ask that you dress appropriately and show the utmost respect for the believers who travel here.
    08:30 a.m. - Departure from Pingyao. We'll begin the entry procedures for the Wutai Mountain National Park, a breathtaking area filled with magnificent landscapes and a succession of historic monasteries. This journey will take us to one of the most spiritually significant places in China.
    01:00 p.m. - Wutai Mountain. Nestled among lush green mountains and forests, this revered site is a major center of Lamaism Buddhism. With more than 40 ancient monasteries—and many more built in recent years—Wutai Mountain is home to a large community of monks dedicated to spiritual practice.
    We'll visit the Nanshan Temple with our guide, then enjoy free time to explore at your own pace. You may choose to seek out less-visited temples, where you can respectfully observe the monks in their daily rituals.
    05:30 p.m. - Transfer to our hotel, located outside the sacred precinct, near the entrance to the National Park.
    06:00 p.m. - Arrival at the hotel. Dinner included.

    Meals: B: Included, L: Excluded, D: IncludedStay: Friendship hotel wutai(Youyi Road, Yangbaiyu, Wutaishan Tourism Resort, Wutai County 035515 China)
14. 14

    Day 14 — Wutai - Yanmenguan - Yinkxian - Hanging Temple - Datong

    Total distance covered: 440 km.
    Scenery: Fascinating mountainous landscapes with few inhabitants, offering a sense of remoteness and serenity.
    Notes: Wear sturdy footwear for walking on the Great Wall and climbing the Hanging Temple. The ascent to the temple is not recommended for those with vertigo, claustrophobia, or health issues.
    07:30 a.m. - Departure from Wutai.
    10:30 a.m. - Yanmen Pass. Arrival at this historic mountain pass near the Mongolian border. Here, we'll explore a less-visited section of the Great Wall, where we can walk at a relaxed pace, enjoying the peaceful atmosphere away from large crowds.
    12:15 p.m. - Departure from Yanmen Pass.
    01:30 p.m. - Yingxian. Arrival in this charming and picturesque village. Lunch will be included.
    While here, we'll admire the Yingxian Wooden Pagoda, one of the oldest and tallest wooden pagodas in China, an outstanding example of ancient Chinese engineering.
    02:45 p.m. - Departure from Yingxian.
    04:00 p.m. - Hanging Temple. Built dramatically into the side of a towering cliff, this architectural marvel seems to defy gravity. The temple, which combines elements of Buddhism, Taoism, and Confucianism, is one of China's most breathtaking religious sites.
    Note: The climb to the temple involves steep steps and high walkways; please assess your comfort level before ascending.
    05:30 p.m. - Departure from Hanging Temple.
    07:00 p.m. - Datong. Arrival in this historic city. From the coach, we'll admire its imposing city walls and the beautifully restored historic center, which reflects Datong's rich past as a key stop along ancient trade routes.

    Meals: B: Included, L: Included, D: ExcludedStay: Datong yungang meigao(19 Ying Bin Jie, Ping Cheng Qu, Datong, Shanxi, China, 037008)
15. 15

    Day 15 — Datong - Yungang - Jiming Post - Beijing

    Total distance covered: 220 km.
    Scenery: This journey links the province of Shanxi with Hebei, traveling across mountainous zones.Note: The train schedule is subject to change. Passengers must carry their own luggage. Please do not pack any spray/aerosol larger than 100ml each, as they coud be removed at the security point.
    07:50 a.m. - Departure from Datong.
    08:20 a.m. - Yungang Caves. Arrival at China's most impressive cave art complex, featuring 252 caves and over 51,000 Buddha statues, intricately carved in the 5th century. This UNESCO World Heritage Site showcases stunning Buddhist sculptures and ancient artistry.
    10:20 a.m. - Departure from Yungang Caves. We head to Datong statios to continue our journey via high-speed train.11.50 a.m. (estimated time) - Departure of the high-speed train (included) from Datong. We will cover 220 km in 90 minutes.
    1:20 p.m. - Arrival at Xuanhua. We will continue from here by road.
    2:00 p.m. - Jiming Post. Arrival at this small, traditional Chinese town, protected by fortified walls that preserves its peaceful, provincial way of life. Jiming Post was originally built as part of the Imperial China´s extensive state communication network, designed to ensure the Emperor´s administrative control over the territory. Today, it stands as one of the few historical postal stations that remains virtually intact. Walking through its streets, you get the sense of being in "another China", one that is agricultural, less developed, and deeply rooted in the past.
    2:45 p.m. - Departure from Jiming Post. We continue by road for approximately 100 km before reaching the vast metropolis of Beijing.
    6:00 p.m. - Beijing. Arrival in the capital of China.

    Meals: B: Included, L: Excluded, D: Excluded
16. 16

    Day 16 — Beijing

    After breakfast, our journey will come to an end, leaving you with wonderful lasting memories.

    Meals: B: Included, L: Excluded, D: Excluded

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