Step into the epic story of China — a land where dynasties once ruled and the future is already here. Start in Beijing with a peaceful morning of Tai Chi led by a local master, then hike a quiet stretch of the Great Wall where history stretches endlessly into the hills. Travel to Xi’An to lock eyes with the legendary Terracotta Warriors and wander the winding alleys of the vibrant Muslim Quarter. Then it’s off to Shanghai, a glittering city of lights and innovation, where tradition and technology meet. With expert guides at every step, you’ll uncover the many layers of this captivating country on an immersive journey through China’s past, present, and future.
Travel Style
National Geographic Journeys
Service Level
Upgraded
Physical Grading
2 - Light
What's Included
Your Journeys Highlight Moment: Temple of Heaven Tai Chi, Beijing
Your Journeys Highlight Moment: Enjoy a Drink on the Great Wall, Jinshanling
Your Welcome Moment: Welcome Moment - Meet Your Expedition Leader and Group
Your Foodie Moment: Peking Duck Lunch, Beijing. Arrival Transfer. Orientation walk of Beijing. Tai Chi lesson in the Temple of Heaven. Explore the Temple of Heaven. Pecking Duck Lunch. Tiananmen Square Visit. Forbidden City Visit. Great Wall of China Jinshanling Hike and Conversation with Local Expert. Special Drink and snack on the Great Wall. Orientation walk of Xi'An. Terracotta Warriors Museum Visit. Explore the Xi'An Muslim Quarter. Shanghai Orientation Walk. Huangpu Night Cruise. Shanghai Walking Tour. Free time in Shanghai. Shanghainese Xiao Long Bao lunch. Visit the Bund. All transport between destinations and to/from included activities
What are the main highlights of this trip?
Hike the quieter Jinshanling section of the Great Wall surrounded by sweeping views, Come face to face with the Terracotta Warriors and wander Xi’an’s buzzing Muslim Quarter, Explore the energy of Beijing and the futuristic skyline of Shanghai with expert guides
How large will the group be?
16
What meals are included in this trip?
7 breakfasts, 3 lunches
What are the modes of transportation on my trip?
Private Vehicle, Walking, Bullet Train, Boat, Metro.
Is there an extra cost for travelling solo?
We believe single travellers should not have to pay more to travel so our group trips are designed for shared accommodation and do not involve a single supplement. Single travellers joining group trips are paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex for the duration of the trip. Some of our Independent trips are designed differently and single travellers on these itineraries must pay the single trip price.
Where will we stay during the trip?
Hotel (7 nts)
Itinerary
BEIJING
Arrive at any time. Arrival transfer is included.
BEIJING
This morning, head out to the UNESCO World Heritage Site–Temple of Heaven. This peaceful place is where we meet your Tai Chi master for a private lesson of this ancient martial art, followed by time to explore the Temple. Lunch features Beijing’s specialty with a delicious serving of peking duck. Continue the exploration of Beijing with an afternoon tour of Tiananmen Square, one of the largest public spaces in the world with an infamous political history followed by the Forbidden City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that was once literally forbidden to those not part of the imperial power structure. Wander through the royal halls and beautiful courtyards-once home to emperors that shaped China’s imperial past.
BEIJING/ GREAT WALL OF CHINA
Venture out of the city to one of the best-preserved sections of the Great Wall of China, as featured in the National Geographic article “Discover China's History Along the Great Wall”. A local expert who brings the history of this world wonder to life will meet us upon arrival for an easy hike along the wall surrounded by incredible mountain views and original, unrestored sections of this masterpiece. Then, have a seat at the Beacon Tower for a special drink and local snack and take it all in, a timeless China. Throughout the hike, the expert guide will bring stories of the Great Wall to life, sharing knowledge of emperors and wars as you sip your drink seated upon the ancient stone.
GREAT WALL OF CHINA/ XI’AN
Head back to Beijing and catch the bullet train to the ancient capital city of Xi’an, once the gateway to the Silk Road. This dynamic city has towering skyscrapers but also boasts a century-old centre known as the Muslim Quarter. Upon arrival, take an orientation walk around the lively neighbourhood to get your footing in this spectacular city.
XI’AN
After breakfast, visit the impressive, life-sized soldiers that stand in silent formation at the Terracotta Warrior Museum. With over 8000 warriors, almost 1000 horses and chariots, this 2000-year-old tomb tells one of China’s greatest stories of historic military power. After a tour, lunch will be served just outside of the museum at a local family’s restaurant-a morning of cultural exploration paired perfectly with traditional Chinese noodles. Return to Xi’an city centre for an afternoon exploration through the famed Muslim Quarter. Walk through centuries-old alleyways lined with fragrant food stalls, neon signs and historic mosques–you’ll quickly see how incredible Xi’an’s confluence of imperial history blends perfectly with modern-day culture.
XI’AN/ SHANGHAI
Catch the bullet train to Shanghai–a city where charming colonial architecture meets world class futurism. Arrive in the afternoon and take an orientation walk to get acquainted with the city, and stroll along the lively streets. Tonight, board an evening cruise along the Huangpu River for a different view of Shanghai’s iconic landmarks between the colonial-era Bund, Pearl Tower and Shanghai Tower-a spectacular introduction to the city.
SHANGHAI
Immerse yourself in the allure of Shanghai this morning on a walking tour. From quiet tree-lined streets to bustling nong alleys, traditional Shikumen buildings to French colonial architecture, and from tea shops to modern boutiques we will experience all sides of Shanghai. Then, sit down to a lunch of Shanghainese dumplings. Try the local favorite xiao long bao (soup dumplings) and other buns that are handmade and bursting with flavor. The rest of the afternoon is free to see Shanghai on your terms–head out for a cup of tea in a beautiful garden or browse a contemporary art gallery. Tonight, we wander the famous Bund, an iconic waterfront promenade listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
SHANGHAI
Depart at any time.
Is travel insurance required for my trip?
Travel Insurance: Travel insurance is compulsory in order to participate on any of our trips. When travelling on a group trip, you will not be permitted to join the group until evidence of travel insurance has been sighted by your Expedition Leader, who will take note of your insurance details. When selecting a travel insurance policy please bear in mind that all clients must have medical coverage and that we require a minimum coverage of USD 200,000 for repatriation and emergency rescue. We strongly recommend that the policy also covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage and personal effects. If you have credit card insurance we require proof of purchase of the trip (a receipt of credit card statement) with a credit card in your name. Contact your bank for details of their participating insurer, the level of coverage and emergency contact telephone number.
Terms, conditions and restrictions apply; pricing, availability, and other details subject to change and/ or apply to US or Canadian residents. Please confirm details and booking information with your travel advisor.
