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11 Days Essence of China Culture Tour by High Speed Trains

Beijing / Pingyao / Xian / Luoyang / Shanghai

Stepping back into Imperial China! The northern China cities Beijing, Xian, Pingyao and Luoyang keep the essence of ancient China culture and history. You will take the modern and fast high speed trains to circle around these legendary cities. Start your trip from Beijing, the city of 7 World Heritage Sites. After visiting the world-famous Great Wall, Forbidden City and other highlights, take a bullet train to Pingyao, the best-preserved walled ancient city which used to be a financial center for ancient China and has been called “The Wall Street of the East”. After that, you will get to Xian, the greatest ancient capital of China, where you will spend one and a half day exploring the magnificent Terracotta Warriors and other famous sites. After Xian is Luoyang, another ancient capital of China. The city is famous for Longmen Grottoes, known as one of the finest examples of Chinese Buddhist art. Driving not so far from Luoyang, you will get to Shaolin Temple, the holy shrine of Chinese Buddhism as well as the place where Chinese Kung Fu originated. Lastly, take a high speed train to Shanghai to finish your exciting trip.

  • Type : Private Tour
  • Tour Code : CD-BPSHT-11
  • Price : from $1,984 ()
    1. 1. This price is for one person, based on a group of 2 adults sharing one double-bed room in a 4-star hotel and traveling in low seasons;
    2. 2. This price is subject to change according to your traveling season, group size, hotel class, change of activities and possible fluctuation of currency exchange rate.
  • Trip Length : 11D/10N
  • Theme : Culture / History

HIGHLIGHTS OF THIS TOUR

  • Visit the icon of China’s imperial culture, the Forbidden City and Temple of Heaven, then hike the beautiful Mutianyu Great Wall in Beijing.
  • Explore the ancient streets and ramparts and visit the ancient Richest Wang’s Family Compound which still remains 1000 rooms in Pingyao.
  • Ride a bullet train from Pingyao to Xian to see the Eighth Wonder of the World - Terracotta Warriors, which was created more than 2,000 years ago.
  • Experience authentic Chinese Buddhist culture and Kung Fu in Luoyang - Longmen Grottoes and Shaolin Temple, two brilliant World Heritage Sites.
  • Day 1 ~ 5 Beijing Pingyao Tour
    Arrive at Beijing by flight or train. Then spend two full days visiting the most grandiose imperial sites of Beijing - Forbidden City, Tian'anmen Square, Temple of Heaven... and hiking the Great Wall. Take a high speed train to Pingyao on the Day 4 to see the ancient streets and walls in the afternoon. Visit Wang’s Family Compound and before taking train to Xian.
  • Day 6 ~ 9 Xian Luoyang Tour
    In Xian, you will spend one day visiting the Terracotta Warriors and Horses, Big Wild Goose Pagoda and Grand Tang Dynasty Ever Bright City, and a half day visiting the Ancient City Wall, Muslim Quarter and Xian Museum. Then take a high speed train to Luoyang where you will stay for two days visiting Longmen Grottoes, Luoyang Museum, Shaolin Temple, and take a high speed train to Shanghai.
  • Day 10 ~ 11 Visit Shanghai & Departure
    After arrival at Shanghai, you will have one full day to explore the most recommended attractions in the city, including the beautiful Yu Garden, 492 meters high Shanghai World Financial Center, the Bund, Shanghai Museum, and spend a half day at the charming Zhujiajiao Water Town before leaving.
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    Itinerary Day by Day (Can Be Customized)
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    Day 1 Beijing Arrival

    Airport or railway station pick up and check in hotel

    Welcome to Beijing, the capital of China, rich in history and culture.

    Your lifetime China tour begins with welcome from your local guide at the Beijing airport. Then be escorted to your hotel in a private vehicle. The rest of today is yours to acclimatize or explore the vast metropolis on your own.

    • Modern Face of Beijing Modern Face of Beijing

    Day 2 Beijing (B, L)

    Today's highlights: Tian'anmen Square, Forbidden City, Hutong Rickshaw, Summer Palace

    After breakfast, start to explore the historical face of Beijing with a brief visit to Tiananmen Square, now the largest city plaza in the world. Tiananmen Gate on the northern side of the square was the site where Chairman Mao announced the establishment of the People's Republic of China. Stepping into the Tiananmen, you will see one of the world’s five most important palaces – the Forbidden City, a huge palace complex of more than 9,000 rooms where 24 emperors of the Ming and Qing Dynasties lived. Pass through various doorways in this magnificent structure to admire the beautiful and well preserved buildings decorated with yellow-glazed tile roofs, white marble bases and splendid colorful paintings.

    Next activity is to hop on a rickshaw to experience Beijing Hutongs – small alleys made of neighboring quadrangle dwellings. Shuttle among different Hutongs to feel the old Beijing life style, meet various antique shops and small boutiques, feel the historical changes of Beijing, also pay a visit to a local family’s home in the traditional Hutongs.

    After lunch, drive to the outskirts of Beijing to spend an enjoyable time in the Summer Palace, the largest and best-preserved royal garden in China. Stroll around ancient pavilions, mansions, temples, bridges and corridors while feasting your eyes on the vast lotus in Kunming Lake and the colorful paintings in the Long Corridor.

    • Summer Palace Shot by Our Guest Nguyen Summer Palace Shot by Our Guest Nguyen
    • Our Customers - Tiananmen Square Our customers visited Tiananmen Square

    Day 3 Beijing (B, L)

    Today's highlights: Mutianyu Great Wall, Temple of Heaven, Bird’s Nest and Water Cube

    After breakfast, drive from your hotel to visit the imperial site – Temple of Heaven. It was originally used to pay homage to Heaven and pray for harvest, now becomes a bustling place for locals to take part in traditional activities, such as Tai Chi, dancing, kite flying, water calligraphy, etc. 

    The rest of today is to drive about 70km to witness one of the Seven Wonders of the World - the Great Wall. You will visit the Mutianyu, a less crowded yet well-preserved segment of the Great Wall built in the Ming Dynasty. It will more than live up to all of your expectations! This great wall, linking Gubeikou in the east and Juyongguan in the west, was served as the vital military strategic point in the ancient time. Moreover, Mutianyu section is the “longest great wall in China” so far and since protection work is well done here, tourists can now see its original appearance and enjoy the real ancient culture of great wall. Also, spectacular natural scenery in Mutianyu Great Wall always impresses visitors here for its abundant vegetation. You’ll take a cable car to ascend the Great Wall, then hike the most beautiful and interesting part of Mutianyu. It's a wonderful experience to climb up its rising towers to enjoy scenic views and take brag-worthy photos of the wall wriggling along mountain ridges. After the exciting time, descend Mutianyu Great Wall by cable car. (Note: If energy permits, you can hike up or down which takes about 40 minutes to climb steps. Please tell your likes to your travel consultant.)

    After the Great Wall visit, drive back to Beijing city and take a short stop at the Beijing Olympic Village to see its famous Bird’s Nest and Water Cube from the outside.

    Optional activity: After the whole day’s tour, treat yourself a great dinner to taste the famous Peking Roasted Duck at Quanjude.

    • The majestic Temple of Heaven in Beijing - Jessica from USA Temple of Heaven Photographed by Our Guest Jessica in September 2023
    •  Maria's Family - Mutianyu Great Wall Maria's family visited Mutianyu Great Wall with China Discovery

    Day 4 Beijing - High Speed Train to Pingyao (B, L)

    Today's highlights: Pingyao Ancient City Wall, Rishengchang Former Bank, Shuanglin Monastery

    This morning, you will go to take the earliest high speed train (around 8am) to Pingyao, the best preserved ancient city in China. You will arrive at Pingyao after about 4 hours bullet train ride, then be picked up by local tour guide and start to explore Pingyao Ancient City. With a history over 2700 years, Pingyao still keeps its intact charm: ancient city walls, elegant courtyards, scattered temples, all marked the splendid period during Ming and Qing dynasties. AS one of the bestl-preserved ancient cities in China, it is also a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site listed in 1997.

    Your Pingyao Ancient City tour starts from the Ancient City Wall of Pingyao, where you can have a panorama view of the layout of this town. Then you will move on to the Rishengchang Former Bank, which shows you the original bank system in the past. After that, stroll on the traditional Ming and Qing Street, a cobbled road with old buildings on either side. You may like tracing back to the former bustle bazaar in the old days. The last travel destination today is Shuanglin Monastery, where contents a large amount of clay figures and wooden sculptures of various gods, goddesses and saints. You will be impressed by the traditional Chinese art forms.

    Accommodate at Pingyao City.

    • Old Streets of Pingyao Ancient City Old Streets of Pingyao Ancient City
    • Pingyao Ancient City Wall Shot by Our Customer Elie Pingyao Ancient City Wall Shot by Our Customer Elie

    Day 5 Pingyao - Xian by High Speed Train (B, L)

    Today's highlights: Wang’s Family Compound, Zhangbi Ancient Castle

    Today, you will firstly head to Wang’s Family Compound, the complex for another rich family in Shanxi Province, near Pingyao. You will see the traditional layout and wooden construction and explore how the rich family lived in the ancient times. Then go to visit the Zhangbi Ancient Castle, a series of tunnels dug to hide out in times of war in over 1380 years ago, to explore how the architecture mixed with engineering in ancient time.

    After visiting, transfer to Pingyao Ancient Train Station for your high speed train to Xian (less than 3 hours). Upon arrival in Xian, the local guide and driver will meet you at the train station and take you to your hotel. Have a good rest today.

    • Zhangbi Ancient Castle Zhangbi Ancient Castle
    • Wang's Family Compound Wang's Family Compound

    Day 6 Xian (B, L)

    Today's highlights: Terracotta Warriors and Horses, Ancient City Wall, Muslim Quarter, Grand Tang Dynasty Ever Bright City

    After breakfast, drive about 40 km to discover one of the greatest man-made wonders in the world - the Terracotta Warriors and Horses, built by the first emperor of China Qin Shihuang to protect him in his afterlife. Over 8,000 life-size warriors, horses and chariots, buried in 3 pits for more than 2,000 years until uncovered by a local farmer in 1974, form an ancient military army with complete battle units of infantry, cavalry, etc. Standing in front of these figures, one can’t help being amazed not only by the ambition of Emperor Qin Shihuang but also by the fabulous artistic skills of ancient Chinese artisans. (Before the Terracotta Warriors Museum visit, you will have a rare opportunity to make a miniature Terracotta Warrior on your own under the instruction of a local potter.)

    After lunch, return to Xian to visit Da Cien Temple, a famous Buddhist sutra translation site during the Tang Dynasty. Giant Wild Goose Pagoda is the most famous building in the temple. The pagoda, rising to a height of 64.5 meters, was built by the famous Buddhist master Xuanzang to preserve classic scriptures he bought back from India during the early Tang Dynasty. Xuanzang was the prototype character for Tang Seng in the famous Chinese novel “Journey to the West”. (Note: It costs an extra 30 RMB if you want to climb up the Big Wild Goose Pagoda). After (or before) visiting the Giant Wild Goose Pagoda, you will be provided an interesting experience of trying on the Hanfu which is the solemn costume of the emperors and their families, the ministers and the noble in the ancient dynasties of China. Seize this rare opportunity to take some photos to record this unique memory!

    This evening you will be offered an interesting visit to Grand Tang Dynasty Ever Bright City which is a great place to walk, enjoy amazing nightscape and recall the prosperity and glory of the mighty Tang Dynasty most importantly. Seeing this area at night is totally different than during the day as the lighting is marvelous yet tastefully done.

    Optional activity: Enjoy a wonderful Tang Palace Dance Show (usually from 8pm to 9pm) after (or without) a hearty dumpling dinner.

    • Our guests biking on the Ancient City Wall Our guests biking on the Ancient City Wall
    • Different Terracoota Warriors - Elie from Belge Amazing Different Terra Cotta Warriors, Picture Taken by Elie from Belge in 2019
    • Muslim Quarter-Anath from India Muslim Quarter, Picture Shared by Our Guest Anath from India
    • Dazzling Grand Tang Dynasty Ever Bright City lovely night views Dazzling Grand Tang Dynasty Ever Bright City lovely night views

    Day 7 Xian & High Speed Train to Luoyang (B, L)

    Xian Museum, Ancient City Wall, Muslim Quarter

    After breakfast, start today's tour with an educational visit to the Small Wild Goose Pagoda and Xi’an Museum to learn a lot about the history and culture about the ancient city of Xi’an. They are together located in a clean and beautiful park. The Small Wild Goose Pagoda is rather smaller and 55 years younger than its “sister” - the Giant Wild Goose Pagoda. Built during 707 to 709 AD, the pagoda is 43.4 meters tall with 13 tiers (originally 15 tiers), looking like a very tall rectangular pyramid. An interesting fact about the Small Wild Goose Pagoda is that the pagoda has survived nearly 70 earthquakes, and now still standing firm and sturdy. You can walk around to appreciate the beautiful design and take photos of the pagoda. Then you will go to visit Xi’an Museum which is only several minutes’ walking from the Small Wild Goose Pagoda. This museum has more than 130,000 pieces of jade relics, seals, paintings, porcelains, Buddhist statues, stone carvings and many other precious relics.

    Later, go to spend a leisure time on the Ancient City Wall, the largest and best-preserved ancient city wall in China. Just like the merchants and envoys on the Silk Road thousands of years ago, you will enter the interior of the city walls through the Hanguang Gate. There you will visit a mini museum to see the real Tang Dynasty city wall ruins from over 1400 years ago, including gateways, cross-sections of the wall, and the remains of water channels. After the museum visit, get up to the city wall to enjoy a leisure stroll and pleasant panoramic views of modern Xian. Rent a bike (extra cost: 45RMB) to enjoy a relaxing cycling on the Wall is strongly recommended. The cycling routes and duration are flexible. Feel free to discuss with your tour guide. Leave the City Wall, then go to wander leisurely around the bustling and lively Muslim Quarter, a place where you can try different local snacks and explore Muslim culture.

    After the tour, be escorted to Xian North Train Station and take a high speed train to Luoyang (about1.5 hours).

    • Riding on Ancient City Wall - Our Guests from USA Our guests enjoyed riding on the Ancient City Wall, Xian
    • Visit bustly Muslim Quarter in day time Visit bustly Muslim Quarter in day time
    • Xian Museum and Small Wild Goose Pagoda Xian Museum and Small Wild Goose Pagoda

    Day 8 Luoyang (B, L)

    Today's highlights: Longmen Grottoes, Luoyang Museum, Tianzi Jialiu Museum

    After breakfast, your guide will lead you to explore the Longmen Grottoes, a UNESCO World Heritage site boasting the largest and most impressive collection of Chinese art from the late Northern Wei and Tang Dynasties (316-907). Take an electric car to the West Tourist Center to begin your exploration from there. You'll marvel at the remarkable Buddhist caves scattered across the West Hill from north to south. The Bingyang Middle Cave, the first royal cave, was excavated to immortalize Emperor Xiaowen's historical achievements in moving the capital to Luoyang and initiating Chineseization reforms. In the Wanfo Cave, adorned with 15,000 small seated Buddhas, you'll witness a harmonious depiction of the Western Pure Land. Undoubtedly, the highlight of the Longmen Grottoes awaits you at the Fengxian Temple, where the majestic Vairocana Buddha stands 17.14-meter tall, showcasing unparalleled carving skills through its diverse statues. After immersing yourself in the beauty of the grottoes, take a leisurely stroll to the opposite side of the river for a panoramic view, particularly of the magnificent Vairocana Buddha. Conclude your visit by exiting the scenic area aboard an electric car.

    In the afternoon, you will visit the Luoyang Museum, which offers a comprehensive insight into ancient Luoyang from various perspectives. With over 1,000 exhibits spanning different dynasties that once established their capitals in Luoyang, a stroll through the exhibition halls on the first floor will transport you through 13 dynasties of history. The Ancient Treasures of Luoyang exhibition on the second floor features prized artifacts, including the Black Glazed Pottery Horse (AD 618-907), Facial Part of the Clay Buddha Figurine (AD 386-557), White Jade Cup (AD 220-225), Gilt Bronze Figurine of A Winged Man (AD 25-220), Bronze Ding Intertwined with Gold and Silver Patterns (BC 475-221), and more.

    Lastly, go to take a stroll through the ancient streets of Luoyang Old City (Lijing Gate & Shizi Street). Teeming with old residential buildings, food streets, and quaint shops, it offers a vibrant glimpse into the splendor of old Luoyang. Indulge in local snacks or shop for unique souvenirs at your leisure. After the trip, drive back to your hotel.

    After the trip, drive back to your hotel.

    Tips for Today: Comfortable footwear is essential for your visit to the Longmen Grottoes, as exploring the scattered grottoes across the hill involves walking several steps up and down.

    Optional Activities: 1) Visit Mingtang Tiantang Scenic Area at night to witness the grandeur of the Sui and Tang Dynasties, and relish the stunning panoramas of Luoyang City; 2) Try Hanfu costumes while adorning traditional Chinese hairstyles and makeup, then capture stunning photos against the illuminated backdrop of Luoyi Old City at night. (If you have any interests, tell your travel consultant or travel guide in advance.)

    • The Vairocana Buddha in Fengxian Temple  - Mr. Pasquale from Italy Our Client Mr. Pasquale visited Fengxian Temple, Longmen Grottoes
    • Longmen Grottoes from Opposite Riverside - David's Group from USA Our guests enjoyed a panoramic view of West Hill Grottoes
    • Exquisite tri-colored glazed potteries in Luoyang Museum Exquisite tri-colored glazed potteries in Luoyang Museum

    Day 9 Luoyang - Shaolin Temple - Shanghai (B, L)

    Today's highlights: Shaolin Temple, Shaolin Kung Fu Show

    After breakfast, start today's trip the dream land for Kung Fu fans and Buddhist pilgrims - Shaolin Temple which is only about 55km/1.5hrs' drive from Luoyang downtown. Shaolin Temple is known as the birthplace of Zen Buddhism and the cradle of Kung Fu. You will visit the grandiose temples and halls, admire stone carving art, learn about Buddhism culture, observe the daily living and meditation of monks in the temple. Don't miss the famous Pagoda Forest, the existing largest pagoda forest in China. When an important monk passed away, their cremains or skeleton would be put into the underground palace, and a pagoda will be built on it. The pagoda's height, size and number of layers will be decided according to the monk's Buddhism knowledge, reputation and merits and virtues when during his lifetime. The pagodas here were built in different dynasties, including 2 Tang Dynasty pagodas, 2 Song Dynasty Pagodas, 10 Jin Dynasty pagodas, 46 Yuan Dynasty pagodas, 148 Ming Dynasty pagodas, etc.

    Then continue your visit to enjoy a magnificent free Kung Fu Performance performed by Shaolin Warriors Monks in the Shaolin Wushu Hall, lasting for half hour each day. Shaolin Kungfu was first created by Bodhidharma to exercise his body when he faced the wall and meditated. After that, in Tang Dynasty, most monks in Shaolin Temple would practice Shaolin Kungfu, and this phenomenon reached to its peak in Ming Dynasty, and the Shaolin Kungfu was spread to the outer world after that.

    After that, drive back to Luoyang to catch your high speed train to Shanghai (about 4.5~7 hrs), the most flourishing metropolis in China. Upon arrival, you will be welcomed by local tour guide, then transferred to your hotel in Shanghai downtown.

    • Archway gate of Shaolin Temple Archway gate of Shaolin Temple
    • Shaolin Kung Fu Show in Shaolin Temple Shaolin Kung Fu Show in Shaolin Temple
    • Roger visited the Pagoda Forest in Shaolin Temple Roger visited the Pagoda Forest in Shaolin Temple

    Day 10 Shanghai (B, L)

    Today's highlights: Shanghai Museum, Yu Garden, Shanghai World Financial Center, the Bund

    You will take a full day of sightseeing to explore both the past and present of Shanghai. Your first stop is Shanghai Museum, one of the Best Four Museums in China. This modern museum, with a round top and a square base which symbolizing the ancient Chinese perception of the world as "round sky, square earth", has collected many international-standard exhibits of bronzes, paintings, calligraphy, sculpture, ceramics, jade from more than 5,000 years ago to the Qing dynasty. To help you learn about the history and facts about the relics in the museum easily, an Audio Explanation Device will be prepared for you. Then you will take an interesting visit to Yu Garden, a shining star among all the ancient Chinese gardens in Jiangnan. This garden fully embodies the traditional design of Chinese architecture with jagged pavilions with elegant decorations, glittering pools with roving fish, and pine trees sprouting to the sky, all designed to refresh your mood and spirit. Adjacent to the garden is the Yuyuan Bazaar where you can savor tasteful local snacks and explore elaborate traditional Chinese handicrafts and art works. Next, you will drive several kilometers to enjoy a panoramic view of the modern face of Shanghai from the 100th floor (474m) of “the Eye of Shanghai” Shanghai World Financial Center

    You will then be transferred to another popular landmark of Shanghai, Nanjing Road, a shopping paradise as well as a great place to take a wonderful walk to experience the modern atmosphere of the City. Lastly, you will stop at the Bund, originally a simple towpath for transporting goods but now transformed into a feverish trading district. You will stroll along the Bund, seeing and feeling the perfect fusion of Chinese and Western cultures while at the same time taking in the stunning Shanghai skyline with your own eyes! 

    Optional activities: 1) Attend an entertaining Acrobatic Show, including breathtaking “balls of death” acts, chair balancing, hula hoops, juggling of benches, walking in the air, and other breathtaking performances (usually performed during 19:30~21:00); 2) Take a relaxing Huangpu River night cruise to see the city’s most significant edifices and streets sparkling under the atmospheric cover of darkness (about 50 minutes).

    • The View of Lujiazui from the Bund -  Our Guest Laszlo The View of Lujiazui from the Bund, Shot by Our Guest Laszlo
    • Yuyuan Bazaar Shot by Our Customer Paul Yuyuan Bazaar Shot by Our Customer Paul
    • Shanghai World Financial - Rajeev's Group from India Rajeev's group from India visited Shanghai World Financial Center with China Discovery

    Day 11 Shanghai Departure (B)

    Today's highlights: Zhujiajiao Water Town

    After breakfast, about 1 hour's drive will take you away from the city's hustle and bustle to visit Zhujiajiao Ancient Town which is known as the "Venice of Shanghai."

    Zhujiajiao has a history of 1,700 years and is a well-preserved waterside ancient town. You will stroll along Hundred-year-old North Street, take some awesome pictures on the Fangsheng Bridge, have a panoramic view of Zhujiajiao by climbing up to Yuanjin Buddhist Temple, enjoy some leisure time on the traditionally decorated boat, cruise along the canals and see the old residences, shops and bridges which are filled with classic architectural style in Ming and Qing Dynasties (1368 AD - 1911 AD).

    After the water town tour, your guide and driver will escort you to the airport, railway station or port to catch your flight/train/ship to your next destination or home. Tour ends.

    • Boats in Zhujiajiao Water Town - Our Guest Gaye from Australia Boats in Zhujiajiao Water Town, Shot by Our Guest Gaye from Australia

    The quotation for this trip is from $1,984 Per Person

    1. This price is for one person, based on a group of 2 adults sharing one standard double-bed room in a 4-star hotel and traveling with our private tour in low seasons. It will drop greatly if your group has 4 or more members.
    2. This price is subject to change according to your traveling season, month and date. There may be huge price increasing during public Chinese holidays, school summer vacations, tourism peak seasons or some special dates. (China Public Holiday 2024 Schedule Released)
    3. Other factors that may change the final tour price include group size, hotel class, tour activities, fluctuation of currency exchange rate, etc.
    4. This price is based on exchange rate USD 1=RMB 7.00. The final price will be based on the exchange rate in effect at the time of agreement with our quotation.
    5. This price is only valid to March 31, 2025.
    6. This price is not the final price until the Confirmation Letter is sent.
    7. The items included and excluded in this price are for reference only. The final services included, please refer to the confirmation letter sent to you by the travel consultant.

    What's included?

    • Professional licensed English-speaking guide;
    • Admission tickets for all attractions listed in the itinerary;
    • Accommodation as listed in the itinerary (4-star standard);
    • Necessary vehicle transfers as listed in the itinerary;
    • Domestic flights (economy class) and high-speed trains (second class) as listed in the itinerary;
    • Airport (and train station) pick up and drop off;
    • Luggage Transfers: between airports (railway station) and hotels;
    • All meals as listed( “B” for Chinese and Western breakfast buffet in your hotel; “L” for Chinese Lunch in local restaurant; “D” for Chinese dinner in local restaurant.);
    • Our service charge, including tour planning, handling, operational and communication charges.

    What's excluded?

    • China visa;
    • Personal expenses;
    • Accommodation not listed in the itinerary;
    • Tourist sites which are not listed in the itinerary;
    • Recommended optional activities;
    • Flights or trains not listed in the itinerary;
    • Excess Baggage Charges;
    • Optional tips to guides, drivers, etc.

    Check What our delighted customers are saying about our services

    Hi Jack,

    My wife and I returned from our China trip yesterday. The crowds at most sites were overwhelming and something that we are not used to. However, I want to let you know that we had a wonderful time mostly due to China Discovery's wonderful tour guides!

    Each guide enriched our experience with both their knowledge of the cities, sites, cultures, people, and foods. They were all prompt, patient, and engaging. They were very helpful in navigating the complexities of visiting China. My wife and I enjoyed their company and conversation greatly. I don't believe we would have had the same experience in China if we had traveled there by ourselves.

    All the drivers were also very courteous, on-time, and helpful!

    Unfortunately, my wife caught a respiratory illness on the Yangtze River Cruise and was quite sick at ZJJ. Our guide Tim, however, was there to assist at night and brought her to the hospital to see a doctor. Tim helped us navigate the Chinese health system, stayed with us throughout the hospital visit, and brought us back to the hotel late at night! We are very grateful to Tim's extraordinary assistance!

    Although we provided a paper review at the end of each location, if China Discovery has an overall review of our trip that needs to be completed, please let me know!

    Again, thank you for your assistance in all the planning prior to the trip and your quick responses to my questions during the trip. Knowing you were there to assist us throughout our journey was a great source of comfort!

    Regards,

    Alex

    Alex‚ USA, October 31, 2024

    Hi Wonder,

    Yes, you responded swiftly and clear. Both drivers pick up and drop off were good. Our guide, Gavin was a very good guide, and driver, he's attentive, knows history well, kind and well organized. We're very happy with him. Hotels Holiday Inn Express were OK, they served good breakfast. Location might be a bit stranded but perhaps chosen because most our trips are outskirts and not inner city.

    Vivi

    Vivi‚ Indonesia, October 31, 2024

    Hi Wonder,

    Yes! The suzhou & hangzhou tour are fantastic. I will prepare the review soon when I return to Singapore tomorrow.

    Shirley

    Shirley‚ Singapore, October 31, 2024

    Hi Wonder,

    Very lucky whole journey no rain at all...The weather was good...So we can enjoy amazing view.

    Stevany

    Stevany‚ Indonesia, October 30, 2024

    Hi Reya,

    Loved the entire trip planning and journey. Ms Lily our tour guide was remarkable and very informative. We had a great journey throughout the trip.

    You were very responsive and what can I say, our guide Lily made the trip enriched with her hospitality. Beijing is indeed memorable.

    Tqvm. This is really so kind of a 7-seat private car and thoughtful of your agency. Transportation in Beijing is so convenient and your upgrade did help. Tq again.

    It was indeed a great trip! Loved every moment of it.

    Thank you and your agency have made this trip memorable. Tq China Discovery!

    Dan

    Dan‚ Malaysia, October 30, 2024
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    Local Drivers & Vehicle

    Using our private transfer service makes you comfortable, relaxed and worry free all the way!

    Our private service includes licensed drivers with many years’ driving experience and air-conditioned, non-smoking, clean and well-maintained cars/vans. Drivers are local, polite, friendly and helpful, taking you to your tourist sites, hotels, airport/train stations in safety. All kinds of vehicle are offered, and yours depends on the size of your group. Usually, we offer sedan cars, SUVs, business vans (MPV) and different types of buses, all with extra space for your luggage.

    Our private transfer service guarantees you the highest comfort!

    Comfortable & Homelike Hotels

    China Tour

    In each destination, you’ll enjoy a comfortable stay in a great location!

    The hotels we choose are based on star rating, great locations, well-equipped facilities, cozy bed, high quality service and guests’ feedbacks. Choices are a lot ranging from luxury 5 star, comfortable 4 star to budget 3 star. You could decide where to stay to best suit for your budget and likes. Generally, the hotels have both Western and Chinese breakfast with a wide choices.

    If you have already got an ideal hotel, please feel free to tell our travel consultants and they'll book the hotel for you.

    Have good sleep in our well-selected hotels in all the destinations of China.

    Meals & Dining

    China Tour

    We can satisfy all the dietary requirements no matter you want Chinese local food, western food, vegetarian food or muslin food.

    The restaurants we will take you for lunch or dinner are all designated tourist restaurants approved by local tourist administration bureau. They have very good sanitary conditions and the food is prepared fresh and clean.

    There will be some meals excluded in your itinerary as you like, and your private guide will be delighted to give you some suggestions and take you to the local restaurants to taste like Beijing Roast Duck, Xian Dumpling Dinner, Sichuan Hotpot, etc., if you are interested in local food tasting.

    All the dining options will satisfy your stomach!

    Photo gallery of this trip

    • Modern Face of Beijing Modern Face of Beijing
    • Summer Palace Shot by Our Guest Nguyen Summer Palace Shot by Our Guest Nguyen
    • Our Customers - Tiananmen Square Our Customers - Tiananmen Square
    • The majestic Temple of Heaven in Beijing - Jessica from USA The majestic Temple of Heaven in Beijing - Jessica from USA
    •  Maria's Family - Mutianyu Great Wall Maria's Family - Mutianyu Great Wall
    • Old Streets of Pingyao Ancient City Old Streets of Pingyao Ancient City
    • Pingyao Ancient City Wall Shot by Our Customer Elie Pingyao Ancient City Wall Shot by Our Customer Elie
    • Zhangbi Ancient Castle Zhangbi Ancient Castle
    • Wang's Family Compound Wang's Family Compound
    • Our guests biking on the Ancient City Wall Our guests biking on the Ancient City Wall
    • Different Terracoota Warriors - Elie from Belge Different Terracoota Warriors - Elie from Belge
    • Muslim Quarter-Anath from India Muslim Quarter-Anath from India
    • Dazzling Grand Tang Dynasty Ever Bright City lovely night views Dazzling Grand Tang Dynasty Ever Bright City lovely night views
    • Riding on Ancient City Wall - Our Guests from USA Riding on Ancient City Wall - Our Guests from USA
    • Visit bustly Muslim Quarter in day time Visit bustly Muslim Quarter in day time
    • Xian Museum and Small Wild Goose Pagoda Xian Museum and Small Wild Goose Pagoda
    • The Vairocana Buddha in Fengxian Temple  - Mr. Pasquale from Italy The Vairocana Buddha in Fengxian Temple - Mr. Pasquale from Italy
    • Longmen Grottoes from Opposite Riverside - David's Group from USA Longmen Grottoes from Opposite Riverside - David's Group from USA
    • Exquisite tri-colored glazed potteries in Luoyang Museum Exquisite tri-colored glazed potteries in Luoyang Museum
    • Archway gate of Shaolin Temple Archway gate of Shaolin Temple
    • Shaolin Kung Fu Show in Shaolin Temple Shaolin Kung Fu Show in Shaolin Temple
    • Roger visited the Pagoda Forest in Shaolin Temple Roger visited the Pagoda Forest in Shaolin Temple
    • The View of Lujiazui from the Bund -  Our Guest Laszlo The View of Lujiazui from the Bund - Our Guest Laszlo
    • Yuyuan Bazaar Shot by Our Customer Paul Yuyuan Bazaar Shot by Our Customer Paul
    • Shanghai World Financial - Rajeev's Group from India Shanghai World Financial - Rajeev's Group from India
    • Boats in Zhujiajiao Water Town - Our Guest Gaye from Australia Boats in Zhujiajiao Water Town - Our Guest Gaye from Australia

    Most Important Trip Notes

    Below are some important things to know regarding of train travel tips, traveling documents, hotels and food, weather, booking guide. Traveling with China Discovery, you only need to focus on enjoying your holiday time. We will take care of all the details. Our travel consultants are always ready to help you if you have any questions about the trip.

    1. How to travel by high speed trains in China?
    Understanding China Train Designations
    China trains are divided into two kinds: High Speed Trains and Normal Trains with different speeds, facilities and names. There are three kinds of High Speed Trains in China, differed by the letters G/D/C plus several digits. Generally speaking, G trains are faster and with better amenities. Normal trains are not recommended.
    Facilities and Services in China’s High Speed Trains
    All China high speed trains are fully air-conditioned and non-smoking. Western toilets are provided. There are also luggage racks, dining car, power plugs, water-dispenser and some other user-friendly facilities equipped on the train.
    Which Class of Seat to Take
    Second Class Seats, First Class Seats, Business Class Seats are three common seats you can find on most China high speed trains. First Class Seats are strongly recommended. They are larger and less-crowded.
    How to Book China Train Tickets
    Currently, you can only book China train tickets 30 days in advance. You can book on China Railway’s official website or some online travel agencies, or go to purchase tickets at any of China’s railway station. Passport is always required no matter you book online or at railway stations. If you book train ticket online, you can collect your ticket at the ticket counters in any railway station in China any time.
    Security Check & Luggage Check
    After arriving at railway station, firstly get your ticket and passport prepared and represent to the staff, and then pass Security Check & Luggage Check, and find the right boarding gate. It's easy and simple.
    How to Handle Your Luggage
    Traveling with luggage on China train is not a problem. If you take high speed trains, it will be easier to handle your luggage because there are plenty of spaces to place your luggage, and there are also many ways to deliver your luggage.
    Related Tips about this tour
    When is the best time to take this trip?
    All three destinations are suitable for traveling all year round. Summer (Jun, Jul, Aug) days are relatively hot and rainy, while the winter days (Dec, Jan, Feb) are cold but not very cold. Compared with summer and winter, the spring (Mar, Apr, May) and autumn (Sept, Oct, Nov) are more comfortable. Try to avoid China's holidays, such as the May Day, Middle Autumn Days, National Days (first week of Oct) and Spring Festival (usually in February).
    Vehicle and Road Condition
    The driving hour is usually less 2 hours each day. Most of the roads are in good condition. There may be traffic jams in rush hours and holidays. We usually choose the suitable time to start your trip to avoid large traffic. Our drivers are licensed drivers with many years’ driving experience. All our vehicles are air-conditioned, non-smoking, clean and well-maintained.
    Hotels and Dining
    The choices for accommodation are flexible. The standards of hotels range from local 3-star to some international 5-star. We usually use 4-star and 5-star hotels for our customers to ensure better stays. All the hotels we choose are usually based on star rating, great locations, well-equipped facilities, cozy bed, high quality service and guests’ feedbacks. Air conditioning and Wi-Fi are usually available. Chinese food is mainly provided in this trip. Western food can be arranged too if you want.
    Payment and Booking Guide
    1. What kind of payment method do you accept?
    PayPal, Wire Transfer/Bank Transfer, Western Union are acceptable before your arrival, and after your arrival, CASH is required.
    2. How soon before our trip do you need payment?
    Early booking is always better than being rushed, and we would suggest booking to be 2-3 month earlier than your arrival to guarantee the booking items. If you are interested in any of our tours, you can pay a deposit first and balance to be paid 30 days prior to your arrival. You can also choose to pay the full amount to avoid small loss caused by currency exchange rate fluctuation.
    3. When should we pay the deposit and the balance?
    Certain deposit will be paid if you decide to book, and balance is required to be paid 30 days prior to your arrival. If booking is less than 30 days, full payment is required.

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