8-Day Beijing–Xi’an–Shanghai Private Tour
China Golden Triangle
This 8-day China top cities tour covers the most popular three destinations and five UNESCO World Heritage Sites. It is the ideal journey for first-time visitors to China, blending imperial history, cultural treasures, and modern city charm.
The following is a suggested itinerary — fully customizable based on your preferences, schedule, and travel style.
Tour Highlights
- 🚩 Explore Beijing’s Forbidden City, Temple of Heaven, Summer Palace, and the Great Wall at Mutianyu
- 🚩 Savor crispy Beijing roast duck and join a local family in Xi’an to make dumplings
- 🚩 Stand before the Terracotta Warriors and learn the craft of warrior-making in a traditional cave dwelling
- 🚩 Cycle or walk along the Ancient Xi’an City Wall for panoramic city views
- 🚩 Step back in time along Shanghai’s Bund and ascend Shanghai Tower for futuristic skylines
- 🚩 Enjoy a half-day customizable Shanghai experience, from art and shopping to nightlife or relaxation
Itinerary at a Glance
| Day | Highlights |
|---|---|
| 1–4 Beijing | Discover the Forbidden City, Tian’anmen Square, Temple of Heaven, Summer Palace, Great Wall at Mutianyu, hutong rickshaw ride, and Beijing roast duck |
| 5–6 Xi’an | Visit the Terracotta Army, learn warrior-making in a cave dwelling, cycle or walk the Ancient City Wall, explore Shaanxi History Museum, and stroll the Muslim Quarter |
| 7–8 Shanghai | Walk the Bund with hidden stories, ascend Shanghai Tower, and enjoy a half-day customizable experience before departure |
Tour “Wow” Points
Beijing – Forbidden City’s Hidden Halls
Most groups only see the central six halls. With your private guide, uncover 12 carefully selected hidden halls, learning about imperial secrets while avoiding the crowds.
Beijing – Great Wall at Mutianyu
Ranked top on TripAdvisor, Mutianyu offers majestic views of the Wall winding across mountains, beautifully restored watchtowers, and fewer tourists.
Beijing – Culinary Experience
Relish crispy roast duck, learn dumpling-making in Xi’an, and try authentic Shanghai local snacks for a true taste of China.
Xi’an – Terracotta Warriors & Craft Workshop
Stand before thousands of life-size warriors. Visit a local cave dwelling to discover traditional techniques and craft your own terracotta figure.
Xi’an – Ancient City Wall
Cycle or stroll along the 600-year-old wall, hearing echoes of the Tang and Ming dynasties while overlooking the modern city.
Shanghai – The Bund’s Hidden Stories
Step into the golden 1920s as you uncover rarely visited Bund buildings, original brickwork, and untold stories your guide will bring to life.
Shanghai – Towering Skyline & Custom Experience
Ascend Shanghai Tower, China’s tallest building, then customize your afternoon: art, fashion, relaxation, nightlife, or shopping — it’s your choice.
Suggested Itinerary
Day 1 | Arrival in Beijing
Meet your private guide at the airport/train station. Transfer by comfortable private car to your hotel for check-in and rest.
Day 2 | Beijing – Forbidden City & Hutongs
Visit Tian’anmen Square and the Forbidden City. Explore hidden halls beyond the main axis. Savor Beijing roast duck for lunch, then wander through traditional hutong alleyways.
Day 3 | Beijing – Temple of Heaven & Great Wall
Morning visit to the Temple of Heaven, observing locals practicing tai chi. Afternoon excursion to Mutianyu Great Wall for scenic walks through watchtowers.
Day 4 | Beijing to Xi’an by High-Speed Train | Summer Palace
Stroll through the imperial gardens of the Summer Palace. Board a high-speed train to Xi’an.
Day 5 | Xi’an – Terracotta Warriors & Ancient Wall
Explore the Terracotta Army, then visit a craftsman’s cave dwelling to make your own clay warrior. Later, cycle or walk atop the Ancient City Wall.
Day 6 | Xi’an to Shanghai by Flight | City Highlights
Discover Xi’an History Museum, Little Wild Goose Pagoda, and Muslim Quarter. Fly to Shanghai in the afternoon.
Day 7 | Shanghai – The Bund & Shanghai Tower
Take an in-depth Bund walking tour, uncover hidden history, and ascend Shanghai Tower for panoramic views. In the afternoon, enjoy a customizable half-day experience.
Day 8 | Shanghai Departure
Private transfer to the airport. Your guide will assist with check-in, ensuring a smooth departure.
Trip Notes
- Itinerary is flexible and can be tailored based on your pace and preferences.
- Beijing–Xi’an travel by high-speed train; Xi’an–Shanghai by domestic flight.
- Hotels can be upgraded to boutique or luxury selections upon request.
Why Choose This Tour
- ✅ Private access to hidden gems like the Forbidden City’s lesser-known halls
- ✅ Hands-on cultural immersion with dumpling-making and terracotta workshops
- ✅ Flexible pace designed for families, couples, or first-time China travelers
- ✅ Expert local guides with deep knowledge of history and culture
- ✅ Customizable experiences for modern travelers seeking more than sightseeing
Price Includes:
- Private air-conditioned vehicle with spacious seating
- English-speaking local guides
- All activities, entrance fees, and meals listed in itinerary
- High-speed train (Beijing–Xi’an) and domestic flight (Xi’an–Shanghai)
- 24/7 local support hotline
💰 From US $1,929 p/p
(Based on a private tour for 2 people with 4-star hotels. Final price varies by travel date, hotel choice, and group size.)The more people, the bigger the discount — up to 40% off.
