1) 30 days visa-free available for citizens of 38 countries, including France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Spain, Malaysia, Australia, etc. 2) 10 days visa-free transit available for citizens of 54 countries including the US, UK, Canada. etc. 3) Best China Tour Packages specially recommended for Singapore travelers.
You are here: Home » Shanxi Tours » 12 Days Historical China Tour with Bullet Train Experience
12 Days Historical China Tour with Bullet Train Experience
If you want to explore the history and culture of China to the fullest, this tour is right for you. Many World Heritage Cultural Sites in the North China like Great Wall, Terracotta Warriors, Yungang Grottoes, Pingyao Ancient City, Longmen Grottoes etc. are included. You won’t miss Shaolin Kung Fu experience in 13 days.
Highlights of this tour:
Be thrilled by the World Heritage Sites in the capital city Beijing - Great Wall of China, Forbidden City, Temple of Heaven, Hutongs, etc;
Two of Four Greatest Buddhist Grottoes in China covered in this tour - Yungang Grottoes and Longmen Grottoes;
Unique trip to the famous Shaolinsi Temple to see the Real Chinese Kung Fu;
Enjoy awesome high speed train experience from Pingyao to Xian and Xian to Luoyang.
Basic Trip Information
Price:
from
Request
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. 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.
Two full days and a half day sightseeing covering the grand Tiananmen Square, historical Forbidden City, spectacular Temple of Heaven, man-made wonder Great Wall of China, royal park Summer Palace, traditional Hutong, etc.
Day 4~7 Shanxi Province Tour
Start to travel from Datong to visit Yungang Grottoes and Hanging Temple, then transfer to Pingyao via Taiyuan city. Spend two days to visit Pingyao highlights, including Pingyao Ancient City and Wang's Family Compound, etc. Then take a high speed train to Xian.
Day 8~9 Xian Tour & Train to Luoyang
2 days in Xian to visit the incredible Terracotta Warriors, Big Wild Goose Pagoda, Grand Tang Dynasty Ever Bright City, leisurely walk on the Ancient City Wall and visit Xian Museum. Then take a high speed train to Luoyang.
Day 10~12 Luoyang Highlights & Departure
Firstly visit the magnificent UNESCO World Heritage Site - Longmen Grottoes in Luoyang, then go to Dengfeng to explore the center of Chinese Buddhism and Kung Fu Culture - strong>Shaolinsi Temple.
Full Itinerary Day by Day
Day 1 Beijing Arrival
Ni Hao, welcome to Beijing, the iconic city as well as the capital of China!
You will be met by your local tour guide at the arrival hall of your arrival airport or train station, then be escorted to check in to your hotel in downtown by a private comfortable vehicle. The rest of today is on your own to relax. If you want to explore nearby, feel free to get some practical suggestions from your tour guide.
Arrival Ideas: At present, there are many international and domestic flights to Beijing. Besides, you can take a high speed train to this capital city from Shanghai (4.5-6 hrs), Xian (4-6 hrs), Guangzhou (7.5-8 hrs), Chengdu (7.5-10 hrs), Chongqing (7-9 hrs), Hong Kong (8 hrs), etc.
Tour guide picked up our clients at Beijing airport
Day 2 Beijing (B, L)
After breakfast, you will start a journey through Beijing's storied past with a brief visit to Tiananmen Square, the world's largest public plaza. This iconic site is where Chairman Mao proclaimed the founding of the People's Republic of China from the imposing Tiananmen Gate.
Step through Tiananmen Gate and into the heart of imperial China - Forbidden City. This vast palace complex of nearly 10,000 rooms, once home to 24 emperors from the Ming and Qing dynasties, stands as a marvel of architectural brilliance and historical grandeur. Admire the intricate details, from the dazzling yellow-glazed tile roofs to the refined white marble bases. As you explore the myriad rooms and courtyards, envision the lives of emperors, empresses, and their courtiers.
After leaving the Forbidden City, take a short walk to Jingshan Park, where you can ascend to its summit for a panoramic view. From here, marvel at the sweeping vistas of the Forbidden City to the south and the serene landscapes of Beihai Park, Shichahai Lake, and the iconic Drum Tower to the north. For unforgettable photos, make your way to one of the palace's corner towers, a favorite spot among photography enthusiasts.
After lunch, you will go to hop on a rickshaw to experience the Beijing Hutongs - narrow alleys lined with historic quadrangle dwellings. This journey will immerse you in the traditional Beijing lifestyle, where you can explore charming antique shops, boutique stores, and witness the city's historical evolution. You'll also visit a local family's home in the Hutongs, offering a glimpse into everyday life.
Optional Hutong Experience: If time permits, you may join a class on Traditional Chinese Paper Cutting in the Hutong area. Learn to create beautiful designs and motifs with the guidance of a skilled teacher.
Optional Night Activities:
1) Watch a wonderful acrobatic performance at the Chaoyang Theater;
2) Or enjoy the classic Chinese art performance of Beijing Opera at Liyuan Theater.
Our customer visited Tiananmen Square in Summer
Wumen Gate of Forbidden City
Carsha's group from USA experience Hutong Richshaw in Beijing in September 2019
Day 3 Beijing (B, L)
After breakfast, visit Temple of Heaven, a historic site once used by emperors for sacrificial ceremonies. As you explore this grand complex of buildings and gardens, you’ll discover the rituals and beliefs of the Ming and Qing emperors, who sought divine blessings for good harvests through intricate ceremonies. Beyond its historical importance, you'll observe vibrant local life, with residents practicing Tai Chi, dancing, and engaging in various exercises among the lush pine woods.
After the Temple of Heaven visit, you'll be driven approximately 70 km (about 1.5 hours) to the iconic Mutianyu Great Wall, a less-crowded but beautiful section of this World Wonder. Begin your adventure by ascending the wall via an enclosed cable car, reaching No. 14 Watchtower, your starting point for an incredible experience. Hike westward along the wall, passing through towering watchtowers and capturing breathtaking views. The trail is moderate, suitable for most fitness levels, including families with children. For the more adventurous, challenge yourself by climbing the Great Man Slope to No. 20 Watchtower, the highest point, offering an even more spectacular vista. After exploring the wonderful sightseeing, hike back to No. 14 Watchtower and descend by the enclosed cable car.
Optional Toboggan Experience: For an extra thrill at Mutianyu, consider taking the toboggan ride or the chairlift cable car to descend the Great Wall, both available at No. 6 Watchtower. Note that there might be a queue, especially during peak seasons like Chinese holidays.
Next, drive back to Beijing City and take a short stop at the Beijing Olympic Village to view its famous Bird’s Nest and Water Cube from the outside.
Lastly, be escorted back to your hotel.
Optional Night Activity: After the day's tour, treat yourself to a great dinner and taste the famous Peking Roasted Duck, a world-renowned dish with crisp skin and juicy meat.
Temple of Heaven Photographed by Our Guest Jessica in September 2023
Mutianyu Great Wall Surrounded by Lush Green Forests in June
Our customers visited Bird's Nest in 2019
Day 4 High Speed Train to Datong & Datong Tour (B, L)
Get up early, you will be escorted to the train station and take a high speed bullet train to Datong from Beijing (about 2-2.5 hours). Upon arrival, be met by your local tour guide, and start to explore Datong highlights.
First site to visit is the famous Yungang Grottoes, a World Heritage site dating back to 5th century. Containing 254 Buddhist caves, Yungang Grottoes stretches about 1 km long. It is filled with about 5,100 precious sculptures - the height of the largest Buddha statue reaches 17 meters and the smallest is only 2 centimeters tall. Most of the sculptures are Buddhas, from which you can be awestruck at their life-like features and blissful smiles. You won't miss Cave No.5 and Cave No. 6 - the highlights of Yungang Grottoes with the entire interiors carved and colored. Facing these jaw-dropping celestial beings in different shapes, you can imagine the painstaking effort taken to produce them.
In the afternoon, drive to Datong city to visit Nine Dragon Screen Wall, made of colorful glazed tiles and depicting nine dragons. It once served as a temple's spirit wall placed in an entrance to inhibit the evil spirit's coming. Now it is the biggest and oldest glazed dragon wall in China. Next, you will visit Huayan Temple - the largest and best preserved monastery built by Khitan during Liao Dynasty. Unlike most traditional Chinese buildings, it interestingly faces east not south, because the Khitan were also sun worshipers. Indulge yourself in the palatial buildings, exquisite frescoes, valued inscriptions in the temple.
Check in to your hotel in Datong downtown.
Nightlife idea (on your own): take a leisurely walk or ride a bike on restored City Wall of Datong. Both new and old city of Datong can be viewed on the wall, showing a drastic difference. The night view seen from the City Wall is more amazing.
Datong Yungang Grottoes - World Heritage Site
Nine Dragon Screen Wall
Magnificent Huayan Temple in Datong
Day 5 Datong - High Speed Train to Pingyao (B, L)
After breakfast, you will move to Hanging Temple, after 1.5 hours' driving (80 km). Built in 491 during Northern Wei Dynasty, it enjoys a history of over 1,500 years. Miraculously carved into the sheer cliff of Hengshan Mountain, Hanging Temple is one of the most incredible sights in China. Its 40 perilous halls and pavilions lean straight over the canyon. Seeing it from the ground, travelers can't help admiring at the ancient people's wisdom. Moreover, Hanging Temple is featured as the only existing temple with the combination of Buddhism, Taoism and Confucianism. So various sculptures are enshrined in the temple. You have enough time to unlock the mystery of why this unusual temple could stand in the precarious position and explore China's religious culture.
After the exciting experience in Hanging Temple, drive 1 hour to Yingxian Wooden Pagoda, also known as Sakyamuni Pagoda. Built in 1056 during Liao Dynasty (907 ~ 1125) and standing at 67.31 meters high, it is the oldest and tallest wooden multi-storey structure in the world. What amazes visitors most is that the whole structure was made without using any nails, screws, or bolts. The first storey holds an 11 meters high Sakyamuni statue, sitting under a delicate caisson ceiling. For Buddhists, the Wooden Pagoda is a Must-vist site to worship because there are two precious tooth relics of Sakyamuni preserved in it.
After the tour, drive to the train station to catch your high speed train to Pingyao (about 3hrs). You will be picked up by local tour guide and escorted to check in to your hotel. The rest of today is free for you to explore the ancient city of Pingyao.
All-wood-made Yingxian Wooden Pagoda
Hanging Temple Clinging to the Cliff
Day 6 Pingyao (B, L)
After breakfast, your guide will pick you up to start Pingyao Ancient City exploration. As one of the best-preserved ancient cities in China, Pingyao Ancient City is listed as a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site because of its brilliant cultural magnificence. With a history over 2700 years, Pingyao Ancient City still keeps its intact charm: ancient city walls, elegant courtyards, scattered temples, all reflecting the urban planning style between 1368 and 1911 during the Ming and Qing Dynasties. Your 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. Next, stroll on the traditional Ming and Qing Street, a cobbled road with old buildings on either side. It's much like tracing back to the former bustle bazaar in the old days. Later, visit the Temple of City God to appreciate the wonderful wood carvings, paintings and sculptures in the old temple.
After Pingyao Ancient City exploration, drive about 15 minutes to visit Shuanglin Temple, where you will be impressed by its large number of clay figures and wooden sculptures of various gods, goddesses and saints.
Return to your hotel after Shuanglin Temple visit.
Optional activity: Enjoy the excellent drama show of Another Glance at Pingyao (19:00~20:30) which presents local life, prosperity and recession of Pingyao during Qing dynasty vividly.
Tourits in Pingyao Ancient City
Rishengchang Former Bank
Pingyao Ancient City Wall Shot by Our Customer Elie
Day 7 Pingyao - Xian by High Speed Train (B, L)
After breakfast, drive about 1 hour to Zhangbi Ancient Castle, which is a series of tunnels dug to hide out in times of war in over 1380 years ago. You will be amazed by the fabulous feat of architecture and engineering in ancient time.
Later, move to Wang's Family Compound which is reputed as an art museum of traditional Chinese architecture and “Forbidden City in Folk”. It is a building complex of multi-generation endeavor of Jingsheng Wang family through the Ming and Qing dynasties for more than 300 years, including five lanes and 6 forts and 231 courtyards, 2,078 rooms and a street with a total area of 250,000 square meters. Within the courtyards are rooms, kitchens, schools, and prayer pavilions. The architectural layout of the Wang Family Compound inherits the courtyard style formed in the Western Zhou Dynasty (1046 BC~771 BC) – halls in front and bedroom at back which not only provides enough space for social activities, but also satisfies the requirements of the family privacy. Young and orderly, men and women, hosts and workers are accommodated in different areas, which fully reflects the majesty of the official family and the regularity of the patriarchal etiquette in ancient China.
After visiting, transfer to Pingyao Ancient Train Station to take a high speed train to Xian (about 3 hours). Upon arrival in Xian, the local guide and driver will meet you at the train station and take you to your hotel. The rest time is free for you to relax.
Tunnel in Zhangbi Ancient Castle
Wang's Family Compound
Day 8 Xian (B, L)
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.
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 get viewed by the countless Terracotta Warriors
Victoria from South Africa visited Terracotta Warriors in 2023
Our Customers visited Big Wild Goose Pagoda
Dazzling Grand Tang Dynasty Ever Bright City lovely night views
Day 9 Xian & High Speed Train to Luoyang (B, L)
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).
Our guests enjoyed riding on the Ancient City Wall, Xian
Visit bustly Muslim Quarter in day time
Xian Museum and Small Wild Goose Pagoda
Day 10 Luoyang (B, L)
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.)
Our guests from USA enjoyed the Buddhist cave art at Longmen Grottoes
Luoyang Museum
Lingjing Gate at Luoyang Old City
Day 11 Luoyang - Dengfeng - Zhengzhou (B, L)
After breakfast, start today's trip with a visit to White Horse Temple, about 30 minutes' driving from central downtown. Established in AD 68 of Eastern Han dynasty, White Horse Temple is the first Buddhist temple in China with over 1900 years history. Since then, it spread the Buddhism throughout of China and regard as the cradle of Chinese Buddhism.
Then leave the White Horse Temple, and drive about 50km to the dream land for Kung Fu fans and Buddhist pilgrims - Shaolin Temple. Shaolin Temple, 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 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. You can enter the performance hall 20 minutes in advance, so it's better to get ther early to get a good seat.
After that, drive about 88km to Zhengzhou City for accommodation.
Shaolin Temple Kungfu Show, Picture Shared by Our Guest Elie from Belge
Kung Fu Show at Martial Hall
Day 12 Zhengzhou Departure (B)
Be free until your guide and driver escort you to the airport or train station for the flight/train to the next destination or back home.
+2 more days to explore cultural and natural miracles in Dunhuang
Located in the northwest of Gansu and the westernmost of Hexi Corridor, Dunhuang is the most brilliant pearl along the ancient Silk Road. The city has sealed huge art treasury and created oasis in the desert. You can closely see the fantastic Buddhist sculptures, murals in World Cultural Heritage - Mogao Caves, visit Crescent Lake surrounded by Mingsha Mountain, view unique Yardang landform, ancient passes and more impressive scenery here.
You can take a 2-day brief trip to Dunhuang covering top highlights. On the day 1, you can go to Echoing Sand Mountain and Crescent LakeE together, witness the wonder of nature, try some exciting activities, like desert camel riding, sand sliding, motorcycling, etc., later return to Dunhuang city to hunt for local flavors at Shazhou Night Market. Day 2 is fully for your Mogao Caves tour. First watch introduction movies about the caves in the Digital Exhibition Center, and then visit specific caves in Mogao Grottoes one by one, learning Buddhist story, Chinese culture and history, which you can’t help admiring this precious land of art.
+ 2 more days to visit the Paris of the East - Shanghai
Shanghai, regarded as the Oriental Paris, is the best place to experience East-meet-West Culture, find hidden tradition within modernity.
Generally speaking, you can spend Day 1 exploring the popular landmarks of Shanghai, such as the Shanghai Museum, Yu Garden, Nanjing Road, the Bund, and Shanghai World Financial Center Tower. The Day 2 is for you to explore deep into the city of Shanghai (such as Wukang Road, Tianzifang or Jade Buddha Temple) and departure.
The quotation for this trip is from
Request Per Person
1. This price is for one person, based on a group of 2 adults sharing one standard double-bed room in 4-star hotel and traveling with our private tour in low seasons. 2. This price is subject to change according your traveling season, group size, hotel class, change of activities in your itinerary and possible fluctuation of currency exchange rate. If you want a lower price, you can get more people to join you, or use economy class hotels.
3. This price is only valid to March 31, 2025.
4. Reference exchange rate of USD 1=RMB 7.00. The final quote is based on current exchange rate. It may change according to the currency fluctuation, while the RMB quotation will be remained the same.
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;
Cable cars to ride up and down Mutianyu Great Wall;
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.);
Accident insurance;
Our service charge, including tour planning, handling, operational and communication charges.
What's excluded?
China visa;
Personal expenses;
Accommodation not listed in the itinerary;
Single Room Supplement;
Tourist sites which are not listed in the itinerary;
Recommended optional activities;
Excess Baggage Charges;
Optional tips to guides, drivers, etc.
Check What our delighted customers are saying about our services
Hi Rita,
The best experience ever!!!! I fell in love.
I received your lovely card and cute gifts, thank you so much.
Done it! As always it’s my pleasure to hire your company services, see you in the next adventure.
Emmy
Emmy‚ Mexico, December 15, 2024
Hi Rita,
Please kindly see the feedback below.
We are a family of 7. This private tour package definitely met our expectations! Both tour guides (Chengdu- MAY & Chongqing-DAVID) provided us a very good service, both friendly and very flexible despite the change in our tour schedules. They were also very responsible and ensured our safety, meals and transports were well taken care of, especially since we have elderly and kids in our group. Both tour guides are very fluent in English too so it is very convenient for some of the non-chinese speakers in our group.
We will look for the same tour agent again in our next trip to China!
Best Regards,
Victoria
Victoria‚ Singapore, December 14, 2024
Hi Shirley,
Thanks for the tour, and the itinerary that you planned for us was very comprehensive and detailed. We enjoyed it very much. The tour guide was also very friendly and experienced. He followed your itinerary closely and brought us to all the sites and explained in detail. He also recommended and brought us to enjoy some of the local cuisines during lunch.
Overall, we are impressed by the excellent service, reliability and quality that yourself, the tour guide and the driver has provided us. We would like to visit China again and we will not hesitate to engage your services again. Thank you!
Regards
Chun How
Chun How‚ Singapore, December 14, 2024
Hi Shirley,
I'm writing to provide some feedback on our recent Xian and Beijing trip that you put together for us.
We travel a lot, in the past year to Japan, New Zealand, China, Turkey, Africa, China, and finally this Xian/Beijing trip. I bring this up to highlight that we deal with a lot of travel professionals. You are easily the best travel professional we have dealt with through all of those trips. My wife, who happens to be Chinese asked me to make sure to keep your contact information for future China trips, with the intention of replacing the China based agent her brother usually uses for our trips.
Please let your manager know that we would probably not have used your company if not for you. Bamboo Travel is new to us and in a foreign country, so we had doubts as to what to expect. Your service was excellent from start to finish which really gave us confidence in your company. We had a little bit of an unusual itinerary and some constraints related to our other China travel prior to this tour. You were able to work through all of our issues with fast responses to our questions.
You also went what I would say was above and beyond expectations. The final example of that is a friend in the US was shipping some things to our hotel in Beijing for me to bring home to her. I contacted you to confirm the hotel name before they shipped the items, expecting I would then have to figure out the shipping details. Your reply not only confirmed the hotel, but you provided the shipping info in both English and Chinese, which saved me the hassle of trying to figure which address to use. Not a huge thing, but it's those small things that add up to a big difference in customer experience.
Thanks again for everything!
Xian:
Our guide was Waldner and we liked him from the start. We were just coming off another tour with another company which had maybe the best tour leader we've ever had. Even though we were always comparing Waldner measured up well. He was great at explaining the history of places we visited as well as answering our cultural questions. The restaurants/food were very good. He and the driver also modified the itinerary somewhat to optimize the driving based on our arrival and departure times and locations. We liked the hotel in Xian. The car (van) was very comfortable. Waldner also helped arrange tickets for a night show for us.
Beijing:
Pickup was great; even though we got in late the guide that picked us up was there and actually met us at the track. Cindy was our guide and we really liked her also. She is very knowledgeable and willing to answer (a lot of) questions. This was my 3rd time in Beijing and it was amazing what a difference having a good guide made. Cindy and the driver also modified the itinerary to optimize the driving. She also helped us book tickets to two shows, one of which was not on your list of optional items (Lao She tea house). Cindy was concerned about us ordering a cab so she stayed at the show to make sure we got back to our hotel ok. The restaurants/food were very good. The hotel was good but not great; for example we had hot water issues every day, and when I went to pick up a package that was shipped to me they just left me to dig through a pretty large pile of packages all addressed in Chinese.
To wrap up, I would rate the overall experience of looking for a trip, picking a company, and traveling 9.5 out of 10. Shirley, your service was 10 out of 10.
See you next trip!
Terry
Terry ‚ USA, December 11, 2024
Dear Rita,
Feedback.
The trip organised by Rita Jiang to Beijing and Xian was very well planned and enjoyable, showing the best of Chinese history, culture, heritage, and enormous progress.
Your 2 guides, Linda Chua and Beryl are very good. Linda went out of her way to take us to Peking Opera at night. The kids were tired, so we did not go to Summer palace and Heavenly temple, and did not go to Xian Pagoda. It was our choice, so its ok. (I have been to all)
The 2 bus drivers were excellent, very careful, disciplined and good temperament and helpful. I could not give a tip to Beryl at Xian station, as I had to rush into toilet inside, and did not know she could not enter the train Station.
The pace was good, but the last day of train from Xian, to hotel (plus late dinner scrabbling in Beijing), then early next morning to airport was too Hectic. However, it was because we had to return on 8.12.24. we wish we could stay longer in Xian, and elsewhere. We could probably have gone to Xian by train, then fly back to Beijing by plane, but one way tickets could cost much more.
Anyway, thank you very much for all your fine arrangements. We all enjoyed the short trip.
For the kids, the major highlights were the Great Wall, Terracotta warriors, Acrobatic show. They will treasure. I will plan more trips for them to China.
Check What our customers are saying about us on Tripadvisor.com
excellent assistance, helpfulness and courtesy. My contact 'was Shirley, prepared friendly and punctual. Highly recommended...
Luciano P
"Travel consultant Mr Wonder Wang was so helpful and he planned our trip to Xi’an and Beijing so well. Mr Waldner is an amazing guide. His knowledge and enthusiasm made our tour very memorable..." read more »
Reviewed on December 13, 2024
Luciano P
"excellent assistance, helpfulness and courtesy. My contact 'was Shirley, prepared friendly and punctual. Highly recommended..." read more »
To make your life more colorful and interesting, you could take our best-selected optional activities in the most popular destinations like Beijing, Xian, and Shanghai.
You have the final say whether you want it or not. It would be better to decide when you are in the destinations. On one hand, the shows and performances may change according to season and weather. On the other hand, you can check your physical condition, time and discuss with your experienced local guide who may give you useful suggestions. If you are interested, your patient guide will accompany you there and escort you back to your hotel. Please pay attention that extra fee is charged for the optional shows and activities.
In Beijing
Option One: Beijing Kungfu Show
Place: Beijing Red Theater
Show Time: Daily 17:15 - 18:30 and 19:30 - 20:45
Nearby Attractions: Temple of Heaven
Useful Advice: You’d better watch it after visiting Temple of Heaven on the second day in Beijing.
Beijing Kung Fu Show is a mix of traditional martial arts and modern dance which has become the most loved Kung Fu show in China. The Kung Fu show not only shows about the performance of Chinese Kung Fu, but also tells about the story of Chinese young boy who dreams to become a Kung Fu master. The whole story includes seven scenes from “Initiation”, “Learning”, “Casting”, “Illusion”, “Remorse”, “Passing through the Gate”, to “Enlightenment”. It will be a memorable experience to watch the Legend of Kung Fu when traveling in Beijing.
Option Two: Beijing Roast Duck
Place: Several restaurants are offered. You may use the one close to tourist sites and your hotel.
Nearby Attractions: Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square, Temple of Heaven
Useful Advice: Enjoy Beijing Roast Duck after visiting Great Wall on the third day in Beijing.
To enjoy the local flavor of Beijing, you should not miss Beijing Roast Duck. The roast duck is with thin, crisp skin and tempting color and its meat is fresh, tender, rich and fat but not greasy. Getting into the roast duck restaurants, you could catch the chance to know more about how a Beijing Roast Duck is made and watch the cook slice the duck into pieces with both skin and meat for each. When taste the duck, you could wrap duck, scallion, cucumber in a pancake or a sesame bun. Also, you could choose some other spices and sauce when tasting the delicious duck.
Option Three: Beijing Opera
Place: Yiyuan Theater
Show Time: 19:30 - 20:50
Nearby Attractions: Temple of Heaven
Useful Advice: A good optional activity for you who have more free evenings in Beijing
Beijing Opera is the quintessence of Chinese culture which combines literature, music, dance, vocal performance, fine arts, acrobatics and many other arts. Travelers could enjoy charming Beijing Opera in Liyuan Theater in the evening. The repertoire of Liyuan is an interesting combination of delightful humor and old Beijing culture. You could enjoy the four parts Beijing Opera repertoires - “Farewell My Concubine”, “The Crossroads”, “A Bird in Cage” and “Drunken Beauty”. By enjoying the repertoires, you could have better understanding about the four main types of performers, Chinese literature, music and art.
In Xian
Option One: Dumpling Dinner & Tang Palace Dance Show
Dinner Time: around 18:30 -19:50
Show Time: around 20:00 – 21:00
There are three options for you: enjoy Dumpling Dinner and Tang Palace Dance Show together, only Dumpling Dinner, only Tang Palace Dance Show. If you want to do both, you’ll enjoy the Chinese traditional dumpling banquet first and then the fabulous Tang Palace dance and music. During the dinner, travelers could taste many combinations of dumplings, all shapes, sizes and flavors. While, the Tang Palace Dance Show take you to a magical journey through the ancient and prosperous Tang Dynasty (618-907). Enjoy the story told through impressive acting, dance and singing, traditional orchestra. It will be an amazing evening for your life in Xian.
Option Two: Cycling on Xian Ancient City Wall
Time: about 2 hours
Length: 13.7 km
Bike Rent: You can rent a bike near South Gate City Wall
Useful Advice: You could choose to ride part of the wall instead of whole circle.
Xian Ancient City Wall stands 12 meters tall and 12-14 meters wide at the top. It is quiet suitable for riding a bike on the wall which covers a length of 13.7 km. Start from South Gate City Wall and ride and pass East Gate, North Gate and West Gate and 98 ramparts and more. Moreover, along the riding, you’ll experience the local customs of the street market, see the historical relics and have a look at the modern side of Xian.
In Shanghai
Option One: Shanghai Acrobatic Show
Place: Several world class theaters are offered. You could use the one based on your likes.
Show Time: 19:30 - 21:00
Watching acrobatic in Shanghai is a magic experience for an exciting out in Shanghai. It is performed by the main troupes - Shanghai Acrobatic Troupe or Shanghai Circus World. Travelers could watch world famous Shanghai Acrobatic Troupe performs programs like Hula Hoops, Squeezing through the Barrel, Juggling Benches, Balancing on the Chair, Pagoda of Benches, Bicycle Skill, Play Diabolo, Kicking Bowls on the Bicycle, etc. Also, enjoy the famous “Ball of Death” with fast action and fun. If you like, you could choose to watch “Era - Intersection of Time” with many highlights presented.
Option Two: Experience High-tech Maglev Train
Route: Shanghai Pudong International Airport - Shanghai Longyang Road Station
Operation Time: Longyang Road Station: First Train: 06:45; Last Train: 21:40. Pudong Internation Airport Station: First Train: 07:02; Last Train: 21:42.
Useful Advice: Make sure you’ll arrive at Pudong Airport and arrival time is able to take it.
If you arrive in Shanghai at Pudong International Airport, taking a high-tech maglev train to Pudong New Area will be awesome experience for your first stop in Shanghai. Also, you could transfer from downtown to the airport. It is available from 06:45 to 21:42, with services every 15 to 20 minutes. The 30 km journey just takes 7 minutes and 20 seconds. You could imagine how fast it is.
Option Three: Cruise on Huangpu River
Available Cruising: in the daytime & at night
Duration: about 45 minutes
Useful Advice: Cruise ships vary in size, decoration and amenities. Choose the one which best suits for your time.
Huangpu River is a silent eyewitness to Shanghai’s history and development. Taking a cruise on Huangpu River will let you witness modern side of Shanghai and feel the old Shanghai culture. The cruise ships usually depart from the wharf close to the Bund. After board on the ship, you’ll view many spectacular sights both on the west and east bank along Huangpu River. Along west bank, see The Bund, Monument to the People’s Heroes, Waibaidu Bridge, etc. Along the east bank, view Shanghai Oriental Pearl TV Tower, Jinmao Tower, Lujiazui Financial Zone, etc.
Visa Notice for Traveling to China
Notice on Latest Visa and Entry Policies for Foreigners Entering China - Updated on December 18, 2024:
1. China has launched a 30 Days Visa-free Policy for 38 eligible countries, including several European nations — Andorra, Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Luxembourg, Malta, Monaco, Montenegro, the Netherlands, North Macedonia, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, and Switzerland. In Oceania, Australia and New Zealand are listed, while in Asia, Malaysia, South Korea, Brunei, and Japan are included. This policy is valid till December 31, 2025. Read more »
2. 240-Hour Visa Free Transit (10 days) has been lanched. 54 eligible countries include the US, UK, Canada, Brazil, etc. Eligible travelers can now travel across provinces, for example traveling from Beijing to Xian, then to Shanghai. Mohan Railway Port at China-Laos border can be used to enter/leave Yunnan. Hong Kong High-speed Rail West Kowloon Station has been added to Guangdong Province 144-hour transit visa-free. Read more »
3. Countries with a mutual visa exemption agreement with China include several European nations, including Albania, Belarus, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Georgia, Kosovo, Malta, San Marino, Serbia, and Seychelles. From North America, Antigua and Barbuda, Bahamas, and Barbados are listed. Several Caribbean nations are also included, such as Dominica, Grenada, and Solomon Islands. Oceania is represented by Fiji, Suriname, and Tonga. In South America, countries like Ecuador, Mauritius.
4. Booking of flights and hotels, China itineraries and invitation letters are not required for application of Chinese Tourist Visa for U.S.nationals.
5. Appointment is not required for visa application in many embassies and consulates.
China Discovery will keep focusing on the updates of the latest Chinese visa and entry policy! You can also call +86 010 12367 (Official telephone number of China National Immigration Administration) to check further information. Welcome to join in our Facebook Groups to catch up with the latest news!
We are one of the few China travel agencies who have kept active and received lots of feedbacks
and reviews during pandemic years
Emmy
"Hi Rita, the best experience ever!!!! I fell in love. I received your lovely card and cute gifts, thank you so much. Done it! As always it’s my pleasure to hire your company services..." read more »
Reviewed on December 15, 2024
Luciano
"excellent assistance, helpfulness and courtesy. My contact 'was Shirley, prepared friendly and punctual. Highly recommended..." read more »
Reviewed on December 13, 2024
Practical Info about Traveling with Us
Restaurant & Food
Vegetarian food Requirement
Vegetarian food in Chinese cuisine culture is usually divided into 3 categories: the Monastery
Vegetarian
Food, the Court Vegetarian Food and the Folk Vegetarian Food. And the main ingredients are:
soybean,
taro powder, mushrooms, fresh vegetables and tofu (bean curd). It will be easier to find the
vegetarian
restaurants in big cities of china, such as: Beijing, Shanghai, Xian, HK, etc.
If allergic to some food
We suggest you to list any food or ingredients that you are allergic to and let our travel
consultant
know. Then your travel consultant will mark them in the guide’s itinerary, so that our guides
in
different cities can make some preparations and arrangements in advance.
Do our guide and driver join the meal with us?
The tour guides and driver will be at the same restaurants with you, but they will only join the
meal
when you invite. Sometimes the drivers are shy to join as they usually eat fast and could not
understand
English talk around the table, so the guide will be with you more often.
Will we be able to try some local foods during our visit?
Yes, you will. 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, if you
are
interested in local food tasting. But remember, some local snacks may not match your stomach,
so
ask your guided for more information before eating.
Shopping
What to buy in China?
In China, there are myriads of souvenirs for visitors, and each city has its own specialty.
How to bargain?
Bargains are not acceptable in big supermarkets and department stores. But in some night markets
or tourist
shops, you can bargain for a lower price, since the vendors always ask for very high price for
a
certain item. You’d better ask the opinion of the guide first, and then the guide will tell you
the
real value and quality of the item. Please note that when the bargain is processing, the guide
will
be hesitate to help as it may annoy the bosses. Just try to let the guides know you will
bargain
in advance.
What to do with persistent vendors?
If you do not need something from them, just do not ask for price. Some of the venders are very
persisted,
and if they keep selling things to you, you can simply say “No, thanks.” (Chinese
pronunciation:
”Bu, XieXie”). If they do not give up, you just keep silence. Silence is sometimes useful to
handle
this situation.
Private tour features
1. Private guide, driver and vehicle are for your exclusive use; no matter you are
individually,
or in a family or friends group. The tour is run exclusively for you without strangers.
2. Every itinerary can be customized to meet your specific interests/ wishes, that is, you
can choose
your favored hotels, sightseeing spots, the tour length, means of transportation, budget,
etc.
All are free of charge.
3. Start the tour on any date you want.
4. Escort you through the whole tour. All private transfers during the tour are offered,
including
airport/train station transfer, hotel-attractions round trip transfer.
5. The sightseeing during the tour could be based on your own timetable and pace. Flexible
to change
at your short notice.
6. Ideal for people who need considerate care and assistance, such as elderly, the
disabled, families
with small children.
Emergency calls
Call your guide, or if you can’t find your guide, call your travel consultant or our office
immediately.
All the phone numbers include in our confirmation letter. Keep the letter with your during your
trip.
How Our Teams Serve you at China Discovery
"Highest Standards of Quality and Honesty" is the core value of each specialized team at
China Discovery.
Eveyone in our company is working hard for only one goal, which is to ensure the highest level of service,
luxury, and attention to detail from the minute you begin planning your trip, to the day you return
home.
1-on-1 Travel Consultant
Our travel consultants are professional, experienced and responsible, helping you from the
very beginning to the end of your China trip!
After sending us an inquiry, one of our travel consultants will get back to you within 0.5~23.5
hrs. In the next few days, he/she will be working closely with you to formulate a customized
tour plan, as well as providing professional suggestions based on your travel interests,
time, and budget.
Beside, he/she will keep in contact with you during your entire tour in China, continually checking
if everything is going well as planned.
We're working at Chengdu Bamboo International Tours, local based in Chengdu.
Local Tour Guides
Our local guide in every destination is not only very friendly, enthusiastic but also very
informative and knowledgeable.
Once you arrive in the destination, the patient and punctual guides will pick you up and take
you to get under skin of the city at your own pace. By in-depth discovery and explanation,
they’ll show you more about the history, culture, customs and authentic local life. Throughout
the journey, they're not only expert guides who take care of all the details but also fellow
travelers who are dedicated to help you explore in comfort and style.
Our guides are passionate about what they do, and it shows all the way!
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
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
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!
Customize your own China Tour
We are here to help you design your own travel experience in China which suits your
specific needs
best. Tailor make now!
We use cookies to give you the best experience on our website. Continue using our website means you agree with our cookie policy. For more info, please read here.
You're inquiring about the " 12 Days Historical China Tour with Bullet Train Experience "
Please finish below form to submit your inquiry. Our travel consultant will reach you with a quotation in
0.5~23.5hrs.