China Golden Triangle with Pingyao Culture Tour - 9 Days

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

The Ancient City of Pingyao (UNESCO), a well-preserved ancient Chinese city of the Ming and Qing Dynasties, is an must-see attraction for you. You will admire the Ancient City Wall built with bricks and stones. Approach to Rishengchang Bank - the first bank of China, and get impressed by the Old Government Buildings. The courtyard houses, narrow streets and small shops in the city provide a complete picture of China’s cultural and social lifestyle during that period of time.

The Qiao Family Compound was the former residence of a rich businessman - Qiao Zhiyong in the Qing Dynasty. Consisting of 6 large yards and 20 small yards in total, the magnificent compound features its traditional Chinese furnishings and lifelike wood carvings.

Owing to its ingenious design in Ming and Qing dynasties, the Yu Garden becomes a real museum of Chinese ancient architecture.
The Bund,featured outstanding European colonial architectures, is full of new skyscrapers and historical buildings in the center of Shanghai.
Step back in time and experience the historical heart of the city at Shanghai Old Town, where classic Jiangnan-style architecture and bustling street markets offer a fascinating contrast to the city's futuristic skyscrapers. Anchored by the 16th-century Yu Garden and the lively bazaar surrounding the City God Temple, this vibrant district allows you to wander through labyrinthine alleys lined with traditional gray-brick buildings, cross the iconic Nine-Turn Bridge, and sample world-famous local delicacies like Xiaolongbao (soup dumplings) at historic eateries.

 

Leisure Time & Optional Experiences

Huangpu River Cruise: See Shanghai’s iconic skyline from the water on a Huangpu River Cruise. Sail past the Bund’s 52 historic colonial buildings and the futuristic skyscrapers of Lujiazui, including the Shanghai Tower and Oriental Pearl Tower. Choose a day cruise for clear architectural details or a night cruise (highly recommended) to see the city illuminated in a dazzling light show.

Shanghai Tower Skywalk Experience: Soar to new heights at the Shanghai Tower, China’s tallest building at 632 meters. Ride the world’s fastest elevator (18m/s) to the 118th-floor Top of Shanghai Observatory. Enjoy 360°panoramic views of the city, including the Bund’s colonial architecture, the Oriental Pearl Tower, and the winding Huangpu River.