Overview
Experience China’s most iconic destinations on this carefully designed 9-day journey through Beijing, Xi’an, and Shanghai.
You will walk through the heart of imperial China at the Forbidden City, stand atop the legendary Great Wall, and discover the world-famous Terracotta Army. Then you’ll witness China’s transformation in Shanghai, where historic architecture meets futuristic skylines.
Connected by China’s world-class high-speed rail network, this itinerary combines history, culture, local life, and modern city experiences, making it an ideal introduction for first-time visitors to China.
Highlights
- Walk through centuries of imperial history inside the Forbidden City.
- Explore the beautifully preserved Mutianyu section of the Great Wall.
- Discover local Beijing life in traditional Hutong neighborhoods.
- Visit the world-famous Terracotta Army, one of China's greatest archaeological treasures.
- Cycle or stroll atop Xi'an's Ancient City Wall.
- Watch Shanghai come alive at night along The Bund.
- Wander through the classical gardens and old streets surrounding Yu Garden.
Itinerary
Day 1: Beijing Arrival → Temple of Heaven → Local Evening Walk
The Experience:
Welcome to Beijing, China’s historic capital and the starting point of our journey.
After arriving at the airport, we will meet you and transfer you by private vehicle to your hotel.
Depending on your arrival time, we begin gently with a visit to the Temple of Heaven, one of Beijing’s most important imperial sites.
Built during the Ming Dynasty, this remarkable complex was where emperors prayed for good harvests and harmony between heaven and earth. As we walk through the ancient cypress groves and grand ceremonial halls, you’ll gain your first insight into traditional Chinese philosophy and imperial culture.
The surrounding park offers another side of Beijing. Residents gather here to practice tai chi, dance, play music, and socialize, creating a lively atmosphere that reflects daily life in the city.
Afterward, we return to the hotel or take a relaxed stroll nearby to help you settle into Beijing’s rhythm before the adventure ahead.
Highlights
- Visit Beijing’s iconic Temple of Heaven.
- Experience local life in one of the city’s most beloved parks.
- Ease into China’s culture and history on your first day.
Tips
- Keep your passport handy for hotel check-in.
- Try to stay awake until evening to adjust to the time zone.
- Overnight: Beijing
Day 2: Beijing | Forbidden City → Jingshan Park → Summer Palace → Hutongs
The Experience:
Today, we explore the heart of imperial Beijing.
After breakfast, we head to the Forbidden City, the largest palace complex in China and home to 24 emperors over nearly five centuries.
As we walk through its grand gates, courtyards, and ceremonial halls, we will uncover stories of emperors, concubines, court politics, and the traditions that shaped imperial China.
Then, we continue to nearby Jingshan Park, where a short climb rewards us with one of the best panoramic views of the Forbidden City.
In the afternoon, we travel by private vehicle to the Summer Palace. Once the royal family retreats from the summer heat, the retreat reveals a more relaxed side of imperial life, with its lakes, pavilions, and gardens. We stroll along Kunming Lake and the famous Long Corridor while learning about the Qing Dynasty’s final years.
In the evening, we spend time wandering through Beijing’s historic hutongs. These narrow alleyways provide a glimpse into traditional neighborhood life that has survived amid the modern city.
Highlights
- Explore the world-famous Forbidden City.
- Enjoy panoramic views from Jingshan Park.
- Walk through authentic Beijing hutong neighborhoods.
Tips
- Expect a full day with moderate walking.
- Bring water, especially during warmer months.
- Early mornings are best for avoiding crowds.
- Overnight: Beijing
- Meals: Breakfast
Day 3: Beijing | Mutianyu Great Wall
The Experience:
This morning, we leave the city behind and travel by private vehicle to the Mutianyu section of the Great Wall, one of the best-preserved and most scenic stretches of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The drive takes around 1.5 hours. Unlike some busier sections, Mutianyu offers a more relaxed atmosphere while still showcasing the scale and engineering achievement of the Wall.
We spend several hours exploring the ramparts, watchtowers, and mountain scenery. As we walk along the ancient stone pathway, it becomes easier to understand how the Wall protected China’s northern frontier for centuries. The views are particularly rewarding, with rolling mountains stretching across the horizon.
For those who prefer a gentler experience, cable car options are available. Families often appreciate the flexibility this section offers.
After lunch nearby, we return to Beijing, leaving time to relax or explore independently during the evening.
Highlights
- Visit the spectacular Mutianyu Great Wall.
- Enjoy panoramic mountain scenery.
- Learn the history behind one of the world’s greatest landmarks.
Tips
- Wear sturdy walking shoes.
- Bring a light jacket as temperatures can be cooler on the Wall.
- Cable cars are available for a more comfortable visit.
- Overnight: Beijing
- Meals: Breakfast
Day 4: Beijing → Xi'an by High-Speed Train → Ancient City Wall
The Experience:
After breakfast, we transfer to Beijing West Railway Station and board a China high-speed train to Xi’an. Traveling at speeds of up to 360 km/h, the journey takes around 4.5 to 5.5 hours and offers a comfortable experience.
Upon arrival in Xi’an, our local guide will meet us and take us to the hotel in the city center.
Xi’an was once the starting point of the ancient Silk Road and served as the capital of thirteen dynasties, making it one of China’s most historically important cities.
In the afternoon, we visit the Ancient City Wall, one of the best-preserved city fortifications in China. Built during the Ming Dynasty, the wall stretches nearly 14 kilometers around the old city.
We can take a relaxed walk along the top or cycle along, where traditional rooftops, bustling streets, and modern buildings create a fascinating contrast between past and present.
As evening approaches, we explore the surrounding old quarters and soak in Xi’an’s unique atmosphere before settling into our hotel.
Highlights
- Walk or cycle atop Xi’an’s remarkably preserved Ancient City Wall.
- Discover one of China’s oldest former capitals.
Tips
- Sunset often provides beautiful views from the City Wall.
- Overnight: Xi'an
- Meals: Breakfast
Day 5: Xi'an | Terracotta Army → Giant Wild Goose Pagoda
The Experience:
Today is dedicated to two of Xi’an’s most iconic cultural treasures.
After breakfast, we travel by private vehicle to the Terracotta Army Museum, located about an hour outside the city.
Discovered accidentally by local farmers in 1974, the Terracotta Army remains one of the world’s greatest archaeological discoveries. As we explore the excavation pits, you’ll see thousands of life-sized soldiers, horses, and chariots created more than 2,000 years ago to guard Emperor Qin Shi Huang in the afterlife. No two faces are exactly alike, revealing the remarkable craftsmanship of ancient China.
After lunch, we return to the city and visit the Giant Wild Goose Pagoda. Originally built during the Tang Dynasty, the pagoda played an important role in preserving Buddhist scriptures brought back from India by the famous monk Xuanzang. The peaceful temple grounds offer a different perspective on Xi’an’s cultural heritage and spiritual traditions.
Highlights
- Learn about China’s first emperor and early empire.
- Explore the historic Giant Wild Goose Pagoda.
Tips
- Arrive early to avoid larger tour groups.
- Photography is allowed, but flash should be avoided.
- Bring comfortable shoes as the museum complex is extensive.
- Overnight: Xi'an
- Meals: Breakfast
Day 6: Xi'an → Shanghai by High-Speed Train → The Bund
The Experience:
This morning, we leave Xi’an and continue eastward to Shanghai by high-speed train.
Upon arrival in Shanghai, we transfer to our hotel before beginning an introduction to China’s most cosmopolitan city.
While Beijing reflects imperial power and Xi’an preserves ancient history, Shanghai tells the story of China’s global connections and modern transformation.
In the late afternoon, we head to The Bund, Shanghai’s most famous waterfront promenade. Walking along the Huangpu River, we can admire the city’s striking contrast: elegant colonial-era buildings on one side and the futuristic skyline of Pudong on the other.
As the sun sets, the city lights begin to illuminate the skyline, creating one of the most memorable urban scenes in Asia. We take our time here, learning how Shanghai evolved from a small trading port into an international metropolis.
The evening is perfect for a riverside stroll or dinner with views of the skyline.
Highlights
- Experience Shanghai’s iconic waterfront.
- Enjoy spectacular skyline views at sunset.
Tips
- Keep a camera ready for evening city views.
- The Bund is especially beautiful after dark.
- A light jacket may be useful along the riverfront.
- Overnight: Shanghai
- Meals: Breakfast
Day 7: Shanghai | Yu Garden → Old Town → French Concession
The Experience:
Today, we explore two very different sides of Shanghai, revealing how tradition and modernity coexist within the city.
We begin at Yu Garden, a beautifully designed classical Chinese garden dating back to the Ming Dynasty. As we wander through pavilions, rockeries, ponds, and winding pathways, we discover the refined aesthetics that have influenced Chinese garden design for centuries.
Outside the garden lies Shanghai’s Old Town, where traditional architecture, local snacks, and bustling streets create a lively atmosphere. This area offers a glimpse of Shanghai before its rapid modernization.
Later, we travel to the French Concession, one of the city’s most charming districts. Tree-lined avenues, historic villas, boutique shops, and cafés create a completely different atmosphere from the old city. Walking through these streets, we learn how foreign influences helped shape Shanghai’s unique identity during the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries.
Highlights
- Explore the elegant Yu Garden.
- Experience the atmosphere of Shanghai’s Old Town.
- Walk through the historic French Concession.
Tips
- Early visits help avoid crowds at Yu Garden.
- The French Concession is ideal for relaxed walking.
- Overnight: Shanghai
- Meals: Breakfast
Day 8: Shanghai | Shanghai Museum → People's Square → Shanghai Tower
The Experience:
Our final full day offers a deeper understanding of both China’s cultural heritage and its modern achievements.
We begin at the Shanghai Museum, one of the country’s finest museums. Its extensive collections of ancient bronzes, ceramics, calligraphy, jade, and traditional art provide valuable context for many of the places we’ve visited throughout the journey. The exhibits help connect the stories of Beijing’s emperors and Xi’an’s dynasties with the broader history of Chinese civilization.
After spending time around People’s Square, the cultural heart of modern Shanghai, we continue to Pudong, the city’s financial district. Here, futuristic skyscrapers rise where farmland once stood only a few decades ago.
Our final major stop is Shanghai Tower, currently China’s tallest building. A high-speed elevator takes us to the observation deck, where panoramic views stretch across the Huangpu River, The Bund, and the endless city skyline. Looking down from above, it becomes easy to appreciate the extraordinary transformation China has undergone in recent generations.
This evening is free to enjoy Shanghai at your own pace.
Highlights
- Discover treasures at the Shanghai Museum.
- Experience Shanghai’s modern financial district.
- Enjoy panoramic views from Shanghai Tower.
Tips
- Visibility is usually best on clear afternoons.
- Evening skyline views from Pudong are particularly impressive.
- Overnight: Shanghai
- Meals: Breakfast
Day 9: Shanghai | Departure
The Experience:
After breakfast, it’s time to say goodbye to China. Depending on your flight schedule, you may have some free time for a final stroll, last-minute shopping, or a relaxed coffee before departure.
At the arranged time, we will transfer you by private vehicle to Shanghai airport.
This itinerary covers China’s classic highlights, offering a deeper introduction to the country’s history, culture, traditions, and everyday life.
We wish you a smooth journey home and hope to welcome you back again to discover more of this fascinating country.
Highlights
- Comfortable private airport transfer.
Tips
- Allow sufficient time for airport security and check-in.
- Keep passports and travel documents easily accessible.
- Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation
- Beijing: 3 Nights
- Xi'an: 2 Nights
- Shanghai: 3 Nights
We typically select quality 3-star and 4-star hotels that offer excellent location, comfort, cleanliness, and service.
At the same time, every itinerary is fully customizable, and accommodation can be upgraded, downgraded, or adjusted according to your travel style, budget, and preferences.
Cost
Included
- High-speed train tickets between Beijing, Xi'an, and Shanghai
- Private air-conditioned vehicle for all local transfers
- Private airport arrival and departure transfers
- Expert English-speaking local guide
- Entrance tickets to all attractions listed in the itinerary
- Sightseeing buses in the listed scenic areas
- 8 nights of hand-picked accommodation with breakfast
- Travel insurance
Excluded
- International or domestic flights to Beijing
- Lunches and dinners
- Personal expenses
- Optional activities not listed in the itinerary
- Gratuities for guide and driver
- China visa fees
Transportation
This route combines high-speed rail and private transfers for a comfortable and efficient journey between destinations.
- Airport Transfers: Private vehicle and driver in each city.
- Beijing Sightseeing: Private vehicle with local guide.
- Beijing → Xi'an: High-speed train (Second Class or upgrade available).
- Xi'an Sightseeing: Private vehicle with local guide.
- Xi'an → Shanghai: High-speed train (Second Class or upgrade available).
- Shanghai Sightseeing: Private vehicle, local guide, and walking exploration.
Essential Tips
- Wear comfortable walking shoes, especially for the Great Wall and city explorations.
- Mobile payment apps such as WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely accepted.
- Bring your passport when taking high-speed trains and entering major attractions.
Gallery
FAQ
Is 9 days enough for Beijing, Xi'an, and Shanghai?
Yes. Nine days allows enough time to experience China’s three most famous destinations while covering major highlights such as the Great Wall, Forbidden City, Terracotta Army, and The Bund.
Is this a good China itinerary for first-time visitors?
Absolutely. Beijing, Xi’an, and Shanghai are often considered China’s classic “Golden Triangle” and provide an excellent introduction to Chinese history, culture, and modern development.
How do you travel between Beijing, Xi'an, and Shanghai?
This itinerary uses China’s high-speed rail network, offering a comfortable, efficient, and scenic way to travel between cities.
Can I customize this Beijing Xi'an Shanghai itinerary?
Yes. Every QuietRoutes itinerary is fully tailor-made. We can adjust destinations, accommodation levels, pacing, activities, and travel dates to match your preferences.
Is the Great Wall difficult to walk?
The Mutianyu section is one of the most visitor-friendly parts of the Great Wall. Moderate fitness is sufficient, and cable car options are available.
How much walking is involved on this tour?
Expect moderate daily walking at historical sites, city centers, and cultural attractions. Most travelers find the pace comfortable.
What is the best time to visit Beijing, Xi'an, and Shanghai?
Spring (April–May) and autumn (September–November) are generally considered the best seasons, offering pleasant temperatures and clear sightseeing conditions.
Can this itinerary be upgraded to luxury hotels?
Comfortable walking shoes, layered clothing, and a light jacket even in summer. Temperatures vary between valleys.
Do I need a guide in China?
While independent travel is possible, a private guide can greatly enhance the experience by providing historical context, handling logistics, and helping overcome language barriers.
Can families with children join this itinerary?
Yes. This route is family-friendly and can be adjusted with child-friendly activities, slower pacing, and family accommodation options.
