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China Golden Triangle with Silk Road Impression Tour - 13Days
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China Golden Triangle with Silk Road Impression Tour

China Golden Triangle with Silk Road Impression Tour - 13 Days

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Beijing - Xi’an - Zhangye - Dunhuang - Urumqi - Shanghai
This 13-day tour adds new impressions to your must-go place list in China. You will explore deserts and mountains from Zhangye colorful Danxia Landform to Dunhuang Mogao Grottoes, where ancient Buddhist art comes alive. Discover oasis charm of Crescent Moon Lake and Singing Sand Dunes, savor street food at night market, and visit Urumqi Heavenly Lake framed by rugged peaks. Walk the historic routes, gaze at star-filled desert skies, and feel the echoes of the Silk Road.
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240-Hour Visa-Free Transit in China

 

China is implementing a 10-day (240 hours) visa-free transit policy. The transit program allows visitors who have existing flight bookings from China to a third country (region) to snag a visa on arrival at a Chinese airport (port) and stay for 10 days before departure. Hong Kong, Macao and Taiwan all count as third destinations.

 

Passport holders of 55 countries, including the United States and the United Kingdom, can enter visa-free through any of the 60 open airports (ports) in 24 provincial regions, covering popular tourist cities like Beijing, Shanghai, Xi’an, Chengdu and Guangzhou.

 

Read more about 240-Hour Visa-Free Transit in China.

 

Meanwhile, citizens from 47 countries can enter China visa-free for up to 30 days.

Day 1 Beijing

airport - hotel transfer in Beijing

Day 2 Beijing

breakfast, lunch
Tian’anmen Square, Forbidden City , Temple of Heaven (UNESCO)
Stand in the heart of modern China at the world’s largest public square, a site of profound historical significance and grand architectural scale. Walk into or drive through (sedan/minivan) Tian'anmen Square to marvel at its iconic surroundings, including the Monument to the People's Heroes and the Great Hall of the People.
Step into the majestic imperial palace where 24 emperors of the Ming and Qing Dynasties ruled for five centuries. Explore the ceremonial courtyards and the exquisite private quarters of the royal family. Note: Closed on Mondays. In case of closure or ticket unavailability, the itinerary adjusts to Jingshan Park for a premier panoramic view overlooking the entire Forbidden City.
Discover the Temple of Heaven, a timeless masterpiece of traditional Chinese imperial architecture. For centuries, ancient emperors held grand solemn rituals here to worship heaven and pray for favorable weather and abundant harvests. Admire its exquisite layout, profound cultural connotations and classic imperial architectural charm that embody ancient Chinese cosmology and ritual traditions
 
Dinner Suggestions
Iconic Peking Duck Dinner: Indulge in a signature feast at a renowned, time-honored restaurant. Savor the legendary roast duck, celebrated for its signature crispy skin, tender meat, and the subtle aroma of fruit-wood roasting.

Day 3 Beijing

breakfast, lunch
Great Wall, The Summer Palace (UNESCO)
Traverse one of the most extraordinary architectural wonders of the ancient world. This monumental landmark stands as a timeless testament to human ingenuity, ancient engineering prowess and China’s profound historical heritage.
Wander through the world’s largest and best-preserved imperial garden. Originally designed as a royal summer retreat, it features an exquisite collection of classical pavilions and bridges centered around the tranquil Kunming Lake.

Day 4 Beijing - Xi’an (by bullet train)

train station transfer in Beijing, train station - hotel transfer in Xi’an
breakfast
Hutong Tour
The Hutongs are the historic arteries of Beijing, a network of narrow alleys that have defined the city’s soul since the Yuan Dynasty (1271 AD). More than just passages, they represent the pinnacle of China’s traditional neighborhood life and vernacular architectural art. From a bird’s-eye view, the seamless integration of these winding lanes and classic Siheyuan (courtyards) resembles an intricate, orderly chessboard, hiding a world of delicate gardens, scholarly rockeries, and ancient relics that whisper stories of a bygone era.

Day 5 Xi’an

breakfast, lunch
Museum of Terracotta Warriors and Horses (UNESCO), The Bell and Drum Tower Square, The Muslim Quarter (Huimin Jie)
The Museum of Terracotta Warriors and Horses (UNESCO) is one of the greatest archaeological discoveries in the world. More than 6000 life-sized terra cotta warriors, archers, infantrymen, horses, and bronze chariots have silently guarded the tomb of China's First Emperor for over 2,200 years.
Located at the very center of ancient Xi'an, the Bell and Drum Tower Square is a grand landmark that beautifully connects China's imperial past with its vibrant modern energy. This spacious public square offers a stunning vantage point between two magnificent Ming Dynasty masterpieces: the majestic Bell Tower, which marks the geographical heart of the city, and the historic Drum Tower, which stands at the entrance to the famous Muslim Quarter. Visited by millions each year, the square provides an exceptional setting to admire traditional triple-eaved wooden architecture, which comes alive at night with a spectacular display of colorful illuminations.
Steeped in over a millennium of history, the Muslim Quarter is a vibrant sensory feast and the heart of Xi'an's legendary food culture. As you wander through its ancient stone-paved lanes, you are greeted by an incredible array of mouth-watering delicacies and authentic Silk Road flavors. From the savory aroma of charcoal-grilled lamb skewers to the rhythmic pounding of traditional nut candy, this bustling historic enclave offers an unparalleled glimpse into the heritage and culinary soul of the city’s Hui community. It is the ultimate destination to immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere and rich, diverse tastes of old Xi'an.
 
Leisure Time & Optional Experiences
Evening Recommendation: Indulge in a celebrated Xi'an Dumpling Banquet, followed by an enchanting Tang Dynasty Music and Dance Show—a vibrant revival of China's golden age of art and culture.
Extended Exploration: If your schedule allows, we highly recommend a journey to Mount Hua to witness its breathtaking natural peaks.
Regional Highlights: For a deeper dive into Buddhist history, consider a bullet train excursion to Luoyang to marvel at the Longmen Grottoes, one of China’s three most renowned ancient cave complexes.

Day 6 Xi’an - Zhangye (by bullet train)

train station transfer in Xi’an, train station - hotel transfer in Zhangye
breakfast
Ancient City Wall
The Ancient City Wall is one of the oldest city walls in China and still encompasses the center of Xi'an today.

Day 7 Zhangye

breakfast, lunch
Zhangye Danxia Landform Geological Park, Mati Temple
Take a 1.5-hour car ride to the Zhangye Danxia Landform Geological Park. You will admire the Danxia Landform, which is perfectly combined with multi-colored mountains, valleys, hills, and cliffs. Gazing out at the vast area of such landform, you will be marveled by the craftsmanship of Mother Nature.
The Mati Temple, also known as the Horse’s Hoof Temple, is located in Sunan County, which is about 65 kilometers north of the Zhangye City. Carved into the cliff side of the Qilian Mountrain, the Mati Temple consists of a series of Buddhist caves, grottos and temples. If time permits, travelers could enjoy a great hiking in the nearby hills.

Day 8 Zhangye - Jiayuguan - Dunhuang (by automobile)

breakfast, lunch
Jiayuguan Pass
The Jiayuguan Pass, the western end of the Great Wall, is known as the most strategic point along the ancient Silk Road.

Day 9 Dunhuang

breakfast, lunch
Mogao Grottoes , Crescent Moon Lake & Singing Sand Dunes, Shazhou Night Market
The Mogao Grottoes (UNESCO) is one of the world's most important sites of ancient Buddhist Culture. The treasure house contains hundreds of sandstone caves holding more than 2,000 statues and 45,000 brilliantly bright paintings of Buddha and Chinese mythological figures.
The Crescent Moon Lake & Singing Sand Dunes are famous attractions in Dunhuang. From a distance make sure to listen carefully for the whistling tunes among the sand dunes. If you are feeling adventurous, take an optional camel ride (on your own expense).
The Dunhuang Shazhou Night Market, open solely in the evenings, is an ideal place to relax after day trips. The market is zoned for different activities: shopping for art and ethnic goods, enjoying snacks at food stalls or tea in cozy houses, and watching local opera street shows.

Day 10 Dunhuang - Urumqi (by bullet train)

train station transfer in Dunhuang, train station - hotel transfer in Urumqi
breakfast, lunch
Dunhuang Museum
Dunhuang Museum exhibits thousands of cultural relics excavated from Dunhuang and its surrounding areas. It provides visitors a greater understanding of the history and culture of The Silk Road.

Day 11 Urumqi

breakfast, lunch
Heavenly Lake, Urumqi International Grand Bazaar
The Heavenly Lake is surrounded by the vastness of mountains and alpine meadows with an elevation of 2000 meters above sea level.
Urumqi's International Grand Bazaar is a lively market showcasing Uyghur culture. Visitors can explore colorful stalls selling traditional crafts, spices, and textiles, sample local delicacies, and shop for unique souvenirs. It's a must-visit for an authentic Xinjiang experience.

Day 12 Urumqi - Shanghai (by air)

airport transfer in Urumqi, airport - hotel transfer in Shanghai
breakfast, lunch
Xinjiang Regional Museum
The Xinjiang Regional Museum is located in the center of Urumqi, showcasing a rich collection of historical artifacts and culture from Xinjiang. Visitors can explore the history and culture of Xinjiang, admire ancient Silk Road relics, and traditional crafts. It is not only a place for historical exhibits but also a destination to learn about Xinjiang's culture. Welcome to explore the Xinjiang Regional Museum and discover the unique charm of this magical land! Open time: 10:30-18:00. Entry stops after 16:30, and advance booking is required.Closed every Monday.

Day 13 Shanghai

hotel-airport transfer in Shanghai
breakfast
Tour Includes :

- Private English-speaking tour guide

- Private air-conditioned vehicle

- Land transfers between airport or train station and hotel

- Entrance ticket as listed

- Meals as listed

- Centrally located hotels with breakfast

- Domestic flight tickets (eco class) with taxes and train tickets (2nd class seat) as listed

- Service charge & government taxes

Tour Excludes :

- International flight

- Personal expenses such as laundry, drinks, fax fee, phone bills, optional activities

- Tips for guides and drivers

- China Visa

- Travel insurance

About Shopping or No-shopping Tours

Since October, 2013, CITS offers truly alternative prices of tours with or without shopping. Exceptionally, some tours only have one type price, such as seat-in-coach, hiking, self-driving and luxury tours, etc. Click here know more details.
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