Experience the perfect blend of ancient traditions and modern marvels on this 8-day adventure through China’s most iconic cities. From Shanghai’s colonial waterfront to Beijing’s imperial treasures, this thoughtfully paced tour showcases the rich cultural tapestry of Eastern China with comfortable accommodations, expert guides, and authentic culinary experiences throughout.
Trip Info
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4 Star Hotels
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English
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Bus & Train
Overview
This 8-day journey takes you from Shanghai to Beijing, with 4 days exploring Shanghai’s contrasting neighborhoods and nearby water town, followed by a high-speed train ride to Beijing for 3 days discovering China’s imperial treasures. The itinerary balances must-see landmarks with cultural experiences and includes comfortable accommodations, most meals, and private transportation.
Trip Highlights
- Explore Shanghai's historic Yu Yuan Garden and futuristic Shanghai Tower
- Discover the enchanting canals of Zhujiajiao water town
- Experience China's high-speed rail between major cities
- Walk the legendary Great Wall at Mutianyu section
- Tour Beijing's Forbidden City and Temple of Heaven
- Enjoy authentic regional cuisine including Peking duck
- Stay in comfortable four-star accommodations throughout
Itinerary
At a Glance
- Airport pickup β Hotel Check-in β Free time
Daily Schedule
Airport Arrival & Hotel Check-in
- Onboard your flight from the home city (note: international transportation is excluded from the package as per T&C)
- Arrival at Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG) – our staff will be in touch to assist with the pickup (complimentary service)
- Recommended to arrive prior to midnight on the first day to ensure sufficient rest for the second day
- Our tour guide will be waiting at the hotel to help you with check-in
Free Time Recommendations
- If you arrived early, explore the city with a leisurely walk
- Perfect for either an afternoon city stroll or evening exploration
- Discover nearby attractions and get your first taste of Shanghai
Inclusions
- Accommodation: Golden Tulip New Asia Hotel, The Bund Shanghai – Superior King Room, Deluxe Room, 35 square meters, with window
- Transportation: Flight (self arranged) + complimentary airport pickup
- Standard: Four Star (Luxury and above)
- Breakfast: Not included
- Lunch: Not included
- Dinner: Not included
Discover Shanghai’s historic charm, from its colonial legacy to traditional markets and spiritual landmarks
At a Glance
- Morning: Yu Yuan Garden β City God Temple β The Bund
- Afternoon: Premium Tea Tasting β French Concession Walking
Daily Schedule
9:00 AM – 11:30 AM | Yuyuan Garden & City God Temple
- Step into a beautiful Ming-era garden surrounded by pavilions, koi ponds, and rock formations
- Visit City God Temple, an ancient Taoist temple where locals pray for good fortune
- Explore traditional architecture and spiritual atmosphere
1:00 PM – 2:00 PM | The Bund
- Walk along the iconic waterfront lined with grand colonial-era buildings
- Enjoy stunning views of Shanghai’s modern skyline across the Huangpu River
- Capture photos of the architectural contrast between old and new Shanghai
3:00 PM – 4:30 PM | Premium Tea Tasting Experience
- Private tea session with a tea master exploring China’s diverse tea culture
- Sample premium varieties including Longjing, Pu-erh, and Oolong teas
- Traditional brewing demonstration paired with authentic Chinese pastries
5:00 PM – 6:00 PM | French Concession Walking Tour
- Walk through Wukang Road & Ferguson Lane
- Discover historic French-style villas meeting modern cafes and boutiques
- Experience the unique blend of European architecture and Shanghai culture
6:30 PM | Head back to Hotel
Inclusions
- Accommodation: Golden Tulip New Asia Hotel, The Bund Shanghai – Superior King Room, Deluxe Room, 35 square meters, with window
- Transportation: Chartered private vehicle or bus (minimum 20% spare seats for comfort)
- Breakfast: At the hotel
- Lunch: Local noodle or soup dumpling experience
- Dinner: Excluded
Optional Activities (Extra cost applies)
5:30 PM – 8:00 PM | Huangpu River Cruise with Buffet Dinner
- Scenic cruise along the Huangpu River with spectacular views of the illuminated skyline
- Premium buffet dinner featuring international and local cuisine
- See iconic landmarks including the Oriental Pearl Tower and Shanghai Tower from the water
8:30 PM – 10:00 PM | The Oriental Pearl TV Tower (Night Viewing)
- Ascend to the observation decks of Shanghai’s iconic tower
- Panoramic night views of the entire city skyline
Note: Optional items are customized experiences to suit personal preferences and won’t clash with the main schedule.
Experience Shanghai’s modern marvels, explore artistic streets, and unwind with exclusive local encounters
At a Glance
- Morning: Lujiazui Financial District β Shanghai Tower β Binjiang Avenue
- Afternoon: Tianzifang β Wukang Road β Xuhui / Hengshan Road
Daily Schedule
9:00 AM – 11:00 AM | Lujiazui Financial District & Shanghai Tower
- Explore the heart of modern Shanghai featuring futuristic skyscrapers
- Reach the top of Shanghai Tower – the tallest building in China
- Experience stunning views from the top-floor observation deck
- Witness the incredible contrast between historic and modern Shanghai
11:00 AM – 12:00 PM | Binjiang Avenue
- Stroll along a relaxing promenade by the river
- Capture great photo opportunities of The Bund from the opposite side
- Enjoy the peaceful riverside atmosphere with skyline views
2:00 PM – 3:00 PM | Tianzifang (η°εε)
- Navigate through charming maze of alleyways filled with art galleries
- Browse boutique shops and quirky cafΓ©s in restored Shikumen (stone-gate) houses
- Experience authentic Shanghai lane culture and local artisan crafts
3:00 PM – 5:00 PM | Free Time
- Continue exploring Tianzifang further or relax with coffee and rest
- Personal spending during this time is excluded
- Various recommendations available for individual preferences
8:00 PM | Return to Hotel after dinner
Inclusions
- Accommodation: Golden Tulip New Asia Hotel, The Bund Shanghai – Superior King Room, Deluxe Room, 35 square meters, with window
- Transportation: Chartered private vehicle or bus (minimum 20% spare seats for comfort)
- Standard: Four Star (Luxury and above)
- Breakfast: At the hotel
- Lunch: Local restaurant (TBC) at Nanjing Road
- Dinner: Authentic Shanghai Cuisine Restaurant
Optional Activities (Extra cost applies)
3:00 PM – 5:00 PM | Calligraphy & Ink Painting Workshop
- Introduction to the history and philosophy of Chinese calligraphy & ink painting
- Hands-on practice session using authentic brushes and rice paper
- Create your own piece of artwork to take home as a unique souvenir
9:00 PM – late | Bar-hopping on Hengshan Road
- Explore lively area with stylish cocktail bars, speakeasies, and jazz lounges
- Experience Shanghai’s vibrant nightlife scene
- Perfect way to end your modern Shanghai adventure
Note: Optional items are customized experiences to suit personal preferences and won’t clash with the main schedule.
A serene escape into Shanghai’s water town heritage, where ancient bridges, canals, and teahouses bring the past to life
At a Glance
- Morning: Zhujiajiao Water Village β Fangsheng Bridge β Yuanjin Buddhist Temple
- Afternoon: Ke Zhi Garden β Bei Dajie Market Street
Daily Schedule
9:00 AM – 10:00 AM | Scenic Drive to Zhujiajiao
- One-hour scenic drive to the charming water town
- Known as “Shanghai’s Venice” for its picturesque canals and bridges
- Enjoy countryside views as you leave the bustling city behind
10:00 AM – 10:30 AM | Fangsheng Bridge
- Walk across Zhujiajiao’s most iconic stone bridge
- Capture stunning views of the canals and surrounding historic buildings
- Experience the town’s signature architectural heritage
10:30 AM – 11:00 AM | Yuanjin Buddhist Temple
- Visit this peaceful riverside temple with colorful prayer flags
- Witness incense offerings and explore the ancient pagoda
- Enjoy moments of tranquility by the water’s edge
12:30 PM – 1:30 PM | Riverside Teahouse Lunch
- Leisurely lunch at a traditional teahouse overlooking the canals
- Savor dishes made from fresh, local ingredients
- Experience authentic water town dining culture
1:45 PM – 2:30 PM | Ke Zhi Garden
- Discover this hidden gem with classical pavilions and koi ponds
- Explore a 200-year-old scholar’s residence
- Appreciate traditional Chinese garden design and architecture
2:30 PM – 4:30 PM | Bei Dajie Market Street Exploration
- Wander through the town’s quaint market streets for shopping
- Find quiet riverside cafΓ©s for relaxation
- Capture photos of lantern-lit alleys and soak in peaceful charm
- Free time to explore at your own pace
4:30 PM – 5:30 PM | Return to Hotel
Inclusions
- Accommodation: Golden Tulip New Asia Hotel, The Bund Shanghai – Superior King Room, Deluxe Room, 35 square meters, with window
- Transportation: Chartered private vehicle or bus (minimum 20% spare seats for comfort)
- Standard: Four Star (Luxury and above)
- Breakfast: At the hotel
- Lunch: Local restaurant (TBC) at Zhujiajiao Water Village
- Dinner: Excluded
Optional Activities (Extra cost applies)
11:30 AM – 12:00 PM | Traditional Wooden Boat Ride
- Glide through narrow canals in an authentic wooden boat
- Pass historic stone bridges, white-walled houses, and floating markets
- Experience the water town from its most traditional perspective
- Perfect photo opportunities of canal life and architecture
Note: Optional items are customized experiences to suit personal preferences and won’t clash with the main schedule.
Experience the efficiency and innovation of China’s high-speed rail network, one of the most advanced in the world, seamlessly connecting major cities like Shanghai and Beijing
At a Glance
- Morning: Shanghai to Beijing via high-speed railway train
- Afternoon: Hotel check-in β Nanluoguxiang Hutong exploration
Daily Schedule
8:00 AM | Hotel Checkout & Departure
- Check out from Shanghai hotel
- Head to Shanghai Hongqiao Station for high-speed rail journey
- Prepare for one of the world’s most advanced transportation experiences
9:00 AM – 1:40 PM | Fuxing Bullet Train Journey
- Depart Shanghai Hongqiao Station via China’s Fuxing bullet train
- Experience incredible speeds reaching 350 km/h
- Enjoy the scenic countryside views during the 4.5-hour journey
- Witness the engineering marvel of China’s high-speed rail network
2:00 PM – 3:00 PM | Beijing Arrival & Hotel Transfer
- Private transfer from Beijing station to hotel
- Smooth check-in process with assistance from our staff
- Welcome to China’s historic capital city
3:00 PM – 4:00 PM | Rest & Refresh
- Settle into your Beijing accommodation
- Take time to refresh after the journey
- Prepare for afternoon exploration
4:30 PM – 5:30 PM | Nanluoguxiang Hutong Exploration
- Stroll through one of Beijing’s best-preserved traditional alleyways
- Browse boutique shops showcasing local crafts and souvenirs
- Sample authentic street snacks and local delicacies
- Experience the contrast between old Beijing charm and modern city life
Inclusions
- Accommodation: Beijing Novotel Peace Hotel – Deluxe Room, 32 square meters, with window
- Transportation: High speed railway train + Chartered private vehicle or bus (minimum 20% spare seats for comfort)
- Standard: Four Star (Luxury and above)
- Breakfast: At the hotel (Shanghai)
- Lunch: Excluded – please prepare beforehand or grab a bento on the train
- Dinner: Peking Duck Feast
A deep dive into Beijing’s imperial history, covering China’s most famous palace, religious heritage, and political center in one streamlined route
At a Glance
- Morning: Tiananmen Square β Forbidden City
- Afternoon: Temple of Heaven
Daily Schedule
9:00 AM – 9:30 AM | Tiananmen Square
- Visit China’s most famous political landmark
- See the Great Hall of the People and Mao’s Mausoleum
- Experience the vast scale and historical significance of this iconic square
- Learn about modern Chinese political history
9:30 AM – 12:30 PM | Forbidden City
- Explore the grandest imperial palace, home to 24 emperors across dynasties
- Hall of Supreme Harmony – The Forbidden City’s most iconic building and ceremonial center
- Palace of Tranquil Longevity – A quieter section with stunning preserved interiors
- Imperial Garden – Beautifully designed space with traditional rockeries and pavilions
- Immerse yourself in 600 years of imperial Chinese history
12:30 PM – 2:00 PM | Beijing-style Noodles & Dumplings
- Try authentic local cuisine at a famous noodle house or dumpling restaurant nearby
- Experience traditional Beijing flavors and cooking techniques
- Rest and refuel for the afternoon exploration
2:30 PM – 3:30 PM | Temple of Heaven
- Visit this UNESCO World Heritage site where emperors prayed for good harvests
- Walk through the Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests with its stunning blue-tiled roof
- Observe locals practicing tai chi, calligraphy, and folk dancing in the park
- Experience the spiritual and cultural heart of imperial Beijing
4:00 PM – 5:00 PM | Return to Hotel
Inclusions
- Accommodation: Beijing Novotel Peace Hotel – Deluxe Room, 32 square meters, with window
- Transportation: Chartered private vehicle or bus (minimum 20% spare seats for comfort)
- Standard: Four Star (Luxury and above)
- Breakfast: At the hotel
- Lunch: Local restaurant (TBC)
- Dinner: Excluded
Optional Activities (Extra cost applies)
5:30 PM – 8:00 PM | Traditional Beijing Copper Pot Hotpot
- Experience authentic Old Beijing winter cuisine enjoyed year-round
- Unlike modern spicy Sichuan hotpot, this features lighter, broth-based soup
- Served in distinctive copper pot heated with charcoal for traditional flavor
- Enjoy paper-thin hand-sliced lamb quickly swished in boiling broth
- Dip in rich sesame sauce accompanied by tofu, vegetables, and handmade noodles
- True taste of traditional Beijing culinary heritage
Note: Optional items are customized experiences to suit personal preferences and won’t clash with the main schedule.
“He who has never been to the Great Wall is not a true hero.” A day of adventure, breathtaking landscapes, and an imperial retreat
At a Glance
- Morning: Mutianyu Great Wall
- Afternoon: Summer Palace β Farewell Dinner
Daily Schedule
7:30 AM – 9:00 AM | Journey to Mutianyu Great Wall
- Private transport to Mutianyu Great Wall (1.5-hour scenic drive)
- Travel through Beijing’s countryside and mountain landscapes
- Prepare for one of China’s most iconic experiences
9:00 AM – 11:30 AM | Mutianyu Great Wall
- Embrace the spirit of “He who has never been to the Great Wall is not a true hero”
- Walk along ancient watchtowers with panoramic mountain views
- Experience this UNESCO World Heritage site and marvel of human engineering
- Capture breathtaking photos of the wall snaking across mountain ridges
- Choose to take helicopter or cable car for enhanced views (see optional items)
12:00 PM – 2:30 PM | Countryside Lunch & Return Journey
- Enjoy local countryside meal featuring handmade dumplings and fresh stir-fried vegetables
- Experience authentic rural Chinese hospitality and flavors
- 1.5-hour scenic drive back to Beijing
3:00 PM – 5:00 PM | Summer Palace
- Visit this peaceful imperial retreat built for Qing Dynasty empresses
- Stroll along the famous Long Corridor with intricate hand-painted artwork
- Explore Kunming Lake and traditional Chinese garden architecture
- Experience the elegance of imperial leisure and retreat lifestyle
5:30 PM – 8:00 PM | Farewell Dinner at Courtyard Restaurant
- Fine dining experience in historic setting
- Options include King’s Joy (Michelin-starred vegetarian cuisine) or Family Li Imperial Cuisine (based on Qing Dynasty royal recipes)
- Celebrate your Beijing adventure with exceptional culinary artistry
8:00 PM – 8:30 PM | Return to Hotel
- Return to hotel and prepare for next day’s departure
- Reflect on your heroic Great Wall conquest
Inclusions
- Accommodation: Beijing Novotel Peace Hotel – Deluxe Room, 32 square meters, with window
- Transportation: Chartered private vehicle or bus (minimum 20% spare seats for comfort)
- Standard: Four Star (Luxury and above)
- Breakfast: At the hotel
- Lunch: Local restaurant (TBC)
- Dinner: Fine dining experience
Optional Activities (Extra cost applies)
9:00 AM – 11:30 AM | Enhanced Great Wall Experience
Scenic Cable Car Ride
- Experience Mutianyu Great Wall effortlessly with scenic cable car
- Soar above breathtaking landscapes and step directly onto ancient watchtowers
- Perfect for comfortable access while enjoying spectacular views
Note: Optional items are customized experiences to suit personal preferences and won’t clash with the main schedule.
Time flies and our tour in China has come to an end today and it’s time to board the flight back home. We will miss you and welcome to join another adventure!
At a Glance
- Morning: Hotel β Airport
- Afternoon: Optional city exploration if time permits
Daily Schedule
9:00 AM – 10:00 AM | Hotel Checkout & Airport Transfer
- Check out from hotel and complete final preparations
- Arrive at airport 3 hours before your international flight
- Complimentary airport drop-off service included
- Begin your journey home with wonderful memories of China
Optional Activities (If time is sufficient)
- Store luggage and bags at hotel reception for free
- Experience Beijing city further with recommended destinations
- Last-minute shopping or sightseeing opportunities
- Perfect for extended layovers or late afternoon flights
Inclusions
- Accommodation: N/A
- Transportation: Airport drop-off included
- Breakfast: At the hotel
- Lunch: Excluded
- Dinner: Excluded
Includes/Excludes
What's Included in Your Tour Package
- Accommodations: 7 nights in 4-star luxury hotels or similar (3 nights in Shanghai, 4 nights in Beijing)
- Private chartered vehicles with 20% extra seating for comfort
- High-speed train from Shanghai to Beijing (second class seats)
- Airport transfers (arrival in Shanghai and departure from Beijing)
- Daily breakfast at hotels
- 5 lunches featuring local specialties as specified in itinerary
- 2 special dinners (Peking Duck Feast and Farewell Fine Dining experience)
- All entrance fees to attractions listed in the itinerary
- Professional English-speaking tour guide throughout the journey
- Premium tea tasting experience in Shanghai
- Guided tours of all listed attractions
- 24/7 emergency contact service
- Bottled water provided daily on tours
- All applicable taxes and service charges
- Luggage handling at hotels
What's Not Included in Your Tour Package
- International Airfare: Flights to Shanghai and from Beijing
- Optional Activities: Additional experiences marked as "optional" in the itinerary
- Dinners (except where specified) and lunches on Days 1, 5, and 8
- Shopping, laundry, telephone calls
- Additional food and beverages not specified in the itinerary
- Comprehensive travel and medical insurance (strongly recommended to be arranged prior to your travel)
- China visa application and processing fees (If applicable and for none-Australian passport holders)
- Any transportation outside the specified itinerary
- Any services not specifically mentioned in the "Cost Includes" section
Join Our Fixed Trip Starting Date
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Group Discount AvailableSundayMar 15, 2026SundayMar 22, 2026$3,700$3,3878% OFFAvailable
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Group Discount AvailableSundayMar 22, 2026SundayMar 29, 2026$3,700$3,3878% OFFAvailable
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Group Discount AvailableSundayMar 29, 2026SundayApr 5, 2026$3,700$3,3878% OFFAvailable
