Beijing, Lhasa to Shanghai: A Journey Through Timeless China

This morning, your guide will take you to Tiananmen Square, the world’s largest city square and a powerful symbol of modern China. From there, step into the magnificent Forbidden City, home to Chinese emperors for over 500 years. As you explore its grand halls and historic courtyards, you’ll gain insight into the lives of China’s ancient rulers.

After lunch, visit the Temple of Heaven, a beautifully designed UNESCO World Heritage Site where emperors once held elaborate ceremonies to pray for good harvests. Its peaceful park setting and striking architecture offer a serene break from the bustling city.

In the evening, enjoy a delicious dinner of Peking Roast Duck, one of Beijing’s most famous dishes, known for its crispy skin and tender, flavorful meat—a perfect end to a day filled with culture and history.

This morning, you’ll take a scenic two-hour drive to the Mutianyu section of the Great Wall, one of the best-preserved and less crowded areas. Ride the cable car up to the wall and spend over two hours exploring its ancient watchtowers and enjoying panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. The peaceful setting and dramatic landscape make for an unforgettable experience.

In the afternoon, return to Beijing and visit the elegant Summer Palace, a former imperial retreat rich in natural beauty and artistic design. Stroll along the shores of Kunming Lake, walk through the richly painted Long Corridor, and admire the iconic Marble Boat. It’s a relaxing way to end the day, surrounded by history, gardens, and quiet lake views.

This morning, take a comfortable high-speed train from Beijing to Xian, traveling swiftly through China’s changing landscapes. Upon arrival, your local guide and driver will greet you at the station and transfer you to your hotel. After a short rest, begin your exploration of this historic city.

In the afternoon, visit the serene Small Wild Goose Pagoda, a graceful symbol of Tang Dynasty architecture nestled in a peaceful park. Then, explore the nearby Xian Museum, home to a fascinating collection of ancient artifacts that reveal the city’s rich cultural past.

In the evening, enjoy a delicious local dumpling dinner, tasting a variety of flavors and fillings. Cap off the night with the dazzling Tang Dynasty Music and Dance Show, where colorful costumes, live music, and traditional performances bring the spirit of ancient Chang’an to life.

This morning, you’ll drive out to the remarkable Terracotta Army, one of the most significant archaeological discoveries in the world. With your guide, explore this vast UNESCO World Heritage Site, where thousands of life-sized clay soldiers, horses, and chariots have stood for over two millennia, silently guarding the tomb of Emperor Qin Shi Huang.

After lunch, return to Xian and enjoy a leisurely bike ride atop the Ancient City Wall, one of the oldest and best-preserved city walls in China. As you cycle along its broad path, take in sweeping views of the old city and its blend of traditional and modern life.

Later in the day, head to the lively Muslim Quarter, where colorful market stalls and delicious aromas fill the air. Sample local specialties like Yangrou Paomo, a flavorful lamb stew with flatbread, and explore the narrow lanes for souvenirs, snacks, and a taste of Xi’an’s vibrant street life.

Take a morning flight to Lhasa, the spiritual heart of Tibet. Upon arrival, your Tibetan guide and driver will meet you at the airport and accompany you on a scenic drive to your hotel in the city. Along the way, enjoy your first glimpses of the vast Tibetan plateau, prayer flags fluttering in the breeze, and distant mountain peaks.
Once you arrive at your hotel in Lhasa (elevation: 3,656 meters), the rest of the day is free for you to rest and acclimate to the altitude. It’s important to take it easy—stay hydrated, avoid strenuous activity, and allow your body to adjust.

Spend some quiet moments soaking in the city’s calm atmosphere, listening to the soft hum of prayer wheels and observing the slow rhythm of local life. This peaceful introduction sets the tone for your spiritual and cultural journey through Tibet.

Start your day with a guided visit to the iconic Potala Palace, a towering architectural masterpiece that once served as the winter residence of the Dalai Lamas. As you climb its steps and explore its chapels, golden rooftops, and ancient murals, you’ll gain deep insight into Tibetan culture, history, and Buddhism. The panoramic views of Lhasa from the top are equally breathtaking.

After lunch, visit the sacred Jokhang Monastery, considered the most important temple in Tibet. Pilgrims from across the region prostrate and circle its walls, adding to the spiritual atmosphere. Inside, you’ll see the revered statue of Jowo Shakyamuni, a golden image of the Buddha said to have been blessed during his lifetime.

To end the day, take a leisurely walk along Barkhor Street, a bustling mix of market, pilgrimage route, and cultural showcase. Surrounded by spinning prayer wheels, incense smoke, and vendors selling vibrant handicrafts, you’ll be immersed in the living heartbeat of Lhasa.

Begin your day at Norbulingka Palace, the serene summer retreat of the Dalai Lamas. As you stroll through its peaceful gardens and richly decorated halls, you’ll uncover stories of Tibetan history, art, and the personal lives of spiritual leaders who once called this place home.

Next, head to Sera Monastery, one of Tibet’s great monastic institutions. In the afternoon, don’t miss the famous monk debates, held in the shaded courtyard. These energetic exchanges—complete with claps, gestures, and quick reasoning—offer a fascinating glimpse into how Buddhist philosophy is taught and challenged.

End the day with a visit to Drepung Monastery, once the largest in Tibet and home to thousands of monks. As you wander its whitewashed buildings and quiet prayer halls nestled in the mountainside, you’ll feel the profound spiritual presence that continues to define this historic center of Tibetan learning.

Fly from Lhasa to Chengdu, where your local guide and driver will meet you at the airport and transfer you to your hotel. After some time to rest and freshen up, head out to enjoy a flavorful Sichuan dinner. Delight in iconic dishes like Mapo Tofu, Kung Pao Chicken, and perhaps try the famous Chengdu hotpot, where you can customize spice levels to suit your taste.

In the evening, immerse yourself in the magic of a traditional Sichuan Opera. The highlight of the performance is Bian Lian, the incredible art of face-changing, where performers switch masks in the blink of an eye. With dramatic music, elegant costumes, and theatrical flair, this show offers a lively and unforgettable taste of Chengdu’s cultural charm.

Your guide will meet you in the hotel lobby for a morning visit to the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, arriving early to see the pandas at their most playful during feeding time. You’ll observe giant and red pandas, including adorable cubs tumbling, climbing, and munching on bamboo in natural enclosures—an unforgettable experience for any animal lover.

In the afternoon, continue to the Wuhou Shrine, a historic site dedicated to Zhuge Liang, the brilliant strategist of the Three Kingdoms era. Wander through peaceful courtyards and learn about the legacy of this revered figure.

End the day with a leisurely stroll along Jinli Ancient Street, where traditional architecture, vibrant stalls, and street performers bring old Chengdu to life. Sample local snacks like spicy noodles and sweet rice cakes, browse handmade crafts, and soak in the lively local culture.

This morning, you’ll take a flight from Chengdu to Shanghai. Upon arrival, your guide and driver will meet you and transfer you to downtown Shanghai to begin your exploration of this vibrant metropolis.

Start your day at the Shanghai Museum, renowned for its world-class collections of ancient bronzes, ceramics, calligraphy, and ethnic artifacts that showcase China’s rich cultural heritage.

Later, enjoy a leisurely stroll along the Bund, Shanghai’s famous waterfront promenade. Here, you’ll see a striking contrast between the elegant colonial-era buildings on one side and the soaring, futuristic skyscrapers of Lujiazui across the Huangpu River. This dynamic mix of old and new captures the spirit of Shanghai perfectly.

After breakfast, start your day in the serene Yu Garden, where you can wander through classical pavilions, tranquil ponds, and intricate rockeries—a peaceful oasis nestled in the heart of the bustling city. The garden’s traditional design offers a glimpse into Shanghai’s rich history and artistry.

Next, explore the lively Tianzifang district, a maze of narrow lanes lined with charming Shikumen houses now home to trendy boutiques, cozy cafes, and local art studios. It’s a perfect spot to soak up Shanghai’s creative energy and pick up unique souvenirs.

As evening falls, enjoy a scenic cruise along the Huangpu River, where you’ll be treated to stunning views of Shanghai’s glittering skyline. Watch iconic landmarks light up, from the historic Bund to the futuristic skyscrapers of Lujiazui, creating a magical end to your day in this vibrant city.

After breakfast, your guide and driver will transfer you to the airport in good time for your flight. We hope you leave with wonderful memories of your journey through China.