Beijing to Zhangjiajie: China’s Historic & Scenic Tour

This morning, your guide will meet you at your hotel to begin a full day of exploration in Beijing. Start at Tiananmen Square, the symbolic heart of modern China, where you’ll stand among monumental landmarks and feel the pulse of the nation’s history.
From there, step into the majestic Forbidden City, once home to emperors for over five centuries. As you walk through its grand courtyards and richly decorated halls, your guide will share the stories of imperial life behind the palace walls.

Next, hop into a rickshaw and weave through the narrow alleyways of Beijing’s historic Hutongs. These traditional neighborhoods offer a glimpse into daily life that still thrives amid the city’s modern rhythm.

In the afternoon, visit the Temple of Heaven, a masterpiece of ancient Chinese architecture. Here, emperors once prayed for good harvests beneath the magnificent Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests. Stroll through the surrounding park, where locals practice tai chi, play music, and socialize under the open sky.
In the evening, enjoy a classic Peking Roast Duck dinner, savoring the crispy skin and tender meat of one of Beijing’s most celebrated dishes—a delicious and fitting end to a day filled with culture, history, and flavor.

You’ll head out with your guide for a scenic drive to Mutianyu Great Wall, one of the Great Wall’s most beautiful and less crowded sections. After taking the cable car up, you’ll hike along the ancient watchtowers, soaking in incredible views of the surrounding mountains and forested landscape. When you’re ready, you can descend either by cable car or on foot along a peaceful trail.

In the afternoon, you’ll stroll along the Sacred Way, a tree-lined avenue flanked by mythical stone guardians that once marked the path to the imperial tombs. Before returning to the city, you’ll stop by the Olympic Village for a quick photo opportunity at the striking Bird’s Nest stadium and the shimmering Water Cube—modern landmarks from the 2008 Beijing Olympics.

This morning, you’ll stroll through the Summer Palace, admiring the shimmering Kunming Lake, the forested Longevity Hill, and the famous Long Corridor, known for its vivid and colorful paintings. After soaking in these stunning views, you’ll visit the elegant Hall of Benevolence and Longevity, a key part of the palace complex.

In the afternoon, you’ll board a high-speed train to Luoyang. Upon arrival, your local guide will meet you and transfer you to your hotel for check-in. The evening is yours to enjoy—wander through Luoyang Old Town, sip traditional tea, browse bustling markets, or sample the city’s renowned water banquet cuisine, a unique culinary experience that reflects Luoyang’s rich cultural heritage.

After breakfast, you’ll set out on a 55-kilometre drive to the legendary Shaolin Temple, the birthplace of Zen Buddhism and Kung Fu. As you explore the temple’s grand halls and ancient stone carvings, you’ll gain insight into the spiritual traditions and disciplined lifestyle of the resident monks. Don’t miss the Pagoda Forest, where hundreds of stone pagodas—China’s largest collection—stand as monuments to generations of Shaolin masters.

Next, head to the Shaolin Wushu Hall to enjoy an incredible Kung Fu performance, where skilled monks demonstrate traditional forms, weapons, and acrobatics in a thrilling display of precision and power.
Later, ride a cable car up to the Sanhuang Village trail, where you’ll enjoy a scenic hike along a cliffside path. With dramatic mountain views and unique rock formations, it’s a peaceful and inspiring way to connect with the natural and cultural landscape of Mount Song.

Today, you’ll begin with a visit to White Horse Temple, the first Buddhist temple in China, where peaceful courtyards and a blend of architectural styles reflect centuries of spiritual and cultural exchange. As you explore the halls and gardens, you’ll gain insight into how Buddhism first took root in China.

Next, a short drive brings you to the magnificent Longmen Grottoes, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with more than 2,300 caves and niches carved into limestone cliffs. Inside, you’ll see thousands of intricate Buddha statues, ranging from tiny figures to towering sculptures. The most striking is the Vairocana Buddha at Fengxian Temple, a masterpiece of Tang Dynasty artistry and devotion.

After taking in these awe-inspiring cultural treasures, you’ll board a high-speed train to Xian, ready to begin the next chapter of your journey in one of China’s most historic and storied cities.

This morning, you’ll take a private drive to the world-famous Terracotta Warriors, an awe-inspiring army of over 8,000 life-sized clay soldiers, horses, and chariots that stand guard over Emperor Qin Shihuang’s tomb. Each figure is unique, showcasing incredible detail and craftsmanship that has amazed visitors and archaeologists alike.

Before diving into the museum, you’ll enjoy a hands-on pottery experience, where a local expert will guide you in crafting your own miniature terracotta warrior—a fun and memorable way to connect with this ancient art form.

Later, return to Xian and visit the impressive Ancient City Wall, the oldest and best-preserved city wall in China. Choose to cycle or stroll along the 13.7-kilometre path atop the wall, where you’ll enjoy sweeping views of the city’s blend of traditional rooftops and modern high-rises—a perfect way to experience the historic soul of Xian.

Today, you’ll dive into the vibrant energy of Muslim Street, where the air is filled with the aroma of sizzling skewers, baked flatbreads, and sweet treats. As you explore the lively food stalls and shops, you’ll visit the Great Mosque, one of China’s oldest and most unique, where Chinese architecture blends seamlessly with Islamic design in a peaceful courtyard setting.

In the afternoon, admire the graceful Big Wild Goose Pagoda, a landmark of Tang Dynasty Buddhism that has stood tall since 652 AD. As you walk around the temple complex, you’ll learn about the monk Xuanzang and his epic journey to bring Buddhist texts back from India.
To end the day, step into the lively world of Tang Dynasty Everbright City, a cultural district filled with lights, music, and tradition. Try on Tang-style costumes, explore the immersive exhibits, and experience the elegance and charm of ancient Chang’an, the capital of China’s golden age.

Start the day with a flight to Zhangjiajie, where your local guide will greet you upon arrival and transfer you to your hotel for check-in and a short rest.

In the afternoon, head out to explore Tianzi Mountain, renowned for its dramatic sandstone peaks that rise like a stone forest into the clouds. Named after a Ming Dynasty rebel leader, Tianzi Mountain is known for its “four wonders”—sea of clouds, rays of sunshine, snow in winter, and stunning moonlit nights.

You’ll visit highlights such as Helong Park and the striking Imperial Brush Peaks, where the landscapes resemble scenes from a traditional Chinese painting. A scenic cable car ride brings you to the mountaintop, and peaceful forest trails offer panoramic views and a deeper connection to the area’s natural beauty.

After breakfast, begin your day with a peaceful walk along Golden Whip Stream, one of Zhangjiajie’s most scenic and tranquil spots. As you follow the crystal-clear stream, you’ll be surrounded by towering sandstone pillars, lush forest, and the gentle sounds of nature. Keep an eye out for macaques and native birds along the way—it’s a refreshing and immersive start to the day.

Next, take the Bailong Elevator, the world’s tallest outdoor lift, which rises 326 meters up a sheer cliff face. At the top, arrive at the breathtaking Yuanjiajie Scenic Area, home to the world-famous “Avatar Hallelujah Mountain”—an inspiration for the floating peaks in the film Avatar.

You’ll explore surreal rock formations and panoramic viewpoints, including a visit to the First Bridge under Heaven, a natural stone arch connecting two peaks and offering unforgettable photo opportunities. The dramatic landscapes here are like stepping into a fantasy world.

Your day begins with a thrilling ride on the world’s longest cable car, a 7.5-kilometre journey that lifts you from the city up to the summit of Tianmen Mountain, offering breathtaking views of deep valleys and winding roads below.
At the top, climb the legendary 999 steps to Heaven’s Gate, a massive natural rock arch that has inspired awe for centuries. If you’re feeling adventurous, test your courage on the glass skywalk, a narrow walkway clinging to the cliffside with stunning, vertigo-inducing views beneath your feet.
After exploring the summit, descend the iconic 99-bend road, a dizzying series of sharp turns that winds down the mountain like a dragon’s tail. Before leaving, take time to visit the peaceful Tianmen Temple, nestled high in the mountains, where ancient architecture and a tranquil setting offer a moment of reflection amid the day’s excitement.

After checking out, your guide and driver will escort you to the airport or bullet train station for the next leg of your journey. With Zhangjiajie’s convenient transportation links, it’s easy to continue exploring the many wonders of China.
You might choose to head to the vibrant streets of Shanghai, the laid-back charm of Chengdu, or the breathtaking landscapes of Guilin. Each destination offers its own unique blend of culture, iconic sights, and mouthwatering local cuisine, ensuring that your adventure through China continues with unforgettable experiences.