7 Days Beijing Shanghai Tour Package | Imperial Wonders & Modern Marvels

Summary

Itinerary Highlights
Day 1 Beijing:Arrive in Beijing
Day 2 Beijing: Tiananmen Square, Forbidden City, Summer Palace, Temple of Heaven
Day 3 Beijing: Beijing Panda House, Lama Temple, Shichahai
Day 4 Beijing: Morning Market, Mutianyu Great Wall, Bird’s Nest
Day 5 Beijing to Shanghai: Yuyuan Garden
Day 6 Shanghai: Nanjing Road, The Bund, Huangpu River Cruise, French Concession
Day 7 Shanghai Departure: Oriental Pearl Tower, Departure

Day 1.Arrive in Beijing

Welcome to Beijing! Upon your arrival, you’ll be greeted by your friendly local guide, who will be holding a "Your Way Holiday" sign with your name, ensuring a seamless and personalized welcome. Your guide will assist you with your luggage and ensure that your transfer from the airport to the hotel is comfortable and smooth. As you travel to your hotel, your guide will provide you with fascinating insights into Beijing's rich history, cultural landmarks, and modern developments, giving you a first glimpse of the city. Along the way, your guide will share helpful tips on getting around the city and answer any questions you may have about your upcoming stay. They will also give you a brief overview of your itinerary, offering a preview of the exciting places and experiences to come, ensuring you're prepared for the days ahead in one of China’s most historic cities.

Once you arrive at your hotel, check in and relax. If you're up for it, your guide will take you to a local hotpot restaurant, where you'll experience one of China’s most beloved dining traditions. Hotpot is more than just a meal; it’s a shared experience, bringing people together around a steaming pot of broth. At the restaurant, you’ll be presented with a bubbling communal hotpot, offering a choice of spicy or mild broth. You can choose from meats like beef, lamb, and pork, and vegetables such as bok choy, mushrooms, and potatoes. You’ll also have tofu, noodles, and dumplings to add texture and flavor. Your guide will help you navigate the meal, offering suggestions on ingredient combinations and explaining customs such as offering the first portion to others. The experience also includes a variety of dipping sauces like soy sauce and chili oil, which you can mix to your liking. Hotpot represents unity and is central to celebrations and family gatherings in China. After the meal, your guide will ensure you're satisfied before returning to the hotel. This immersive experience gives you a taste of Beijing’s food culture.

Day 2. Beijing

Your day begins with a visit to Tiananmen Square, the largest public square in the world and a symbol of China’s political and cultural history. Your guide will explain the historical importance of the square, including its role in major national events and its association with the country’s revolutionary past. Afterward, you will walk to the Forbidden City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that once served as the imperial palace for 24 Chinese emperors. Your guide will provide in-depth knowledge about the palace’s architectural layout, the fascinating history of the emperors, and the symbolism behind its design. Key highlights include the Hall of Supreme Harmony, the Imperial Garden, and the intriguing stories of the Forbidden City’s royal residents.

After exploring the Forbidden City, enjoy a delightful lunch at a local restaurant, where you’ll have the opportunity to try traditional Beijing dishes. One of the highlights is zhajiangmian, a delicious dish of noodles served with soybean paste, often accompanied by fresh vegetables and tender meat. Another must-try is jiaozi, the famous dumplings filled with pork, vegetables, or beef, which are a staple of Beijing cuisine. As you savor these dishes, your guide will share the history behind each one, explaining how they have become an integral part of Beijing’s food culture over the centuries. Your guide will also delve into the role of food in Chinese culture, where meals are not only about nourishment but are also a reflection of family values and community bonding. They will introduce you to traditional dining etiquette, including how to serve others and the significance of offering food in Chinese customs. This lunch will give you a deeper understanding of Chinese culinary traditions and how they reflect the rich cultural heritage of Beijing.

In the afternoon, your guide will take you to the Summer Palace, an exquisite imperial garden that served as a retreat for emperors during the hot summer months. Nestled in the western suburbs of Beijing, this vast estate is renowned for its serene beauty, with tranquil lakes, lush gardens, and impressive architecture. As you stroll through the palace grounds, your guide will explain the design principles behind the garden, many of which were influenced by Confucian and Taoist ideas, emphasizing harmony with nature, balance, and spirituality. You’ll explore the lakeside pavilions, designed to provide quiet spaces for rest and contemplation, and walk along the Long Corridor, a covered walkway adorned with beautiful paintings and scenes from Chinese folklore. One of the most iconic sights is the Marble Boat, a stunning structure built in the shape of a boat, which was once symbolic of the Qing dynasty’s decline. Your guide will also share insights into the role of Empress Dowager Cixi, who played a crucial part in the palace’s expansion and restoration, shaping its legacy as a symbol of imperial grandeur. This visit will give you a deeper understanding of the cultural, historical, and architectural significance of the Summer Palace.

Following that, visit the Temple of Heaven, a stunning example of classical Chinese architecture and one of the most important religious sites in Beijing. This majestic temple complex, built during the Ming Dynasty, was the place where emperors would pray for good harvests and seek blessings from the heavens. The temple is renowned for its perfect symmetry and unique design, symbolizing the relationship between heaven and earth. As you walk through the complex, your guide will explain the deep spiritual significance of the temple’s layout, designed to represent the cosmological beliefs of ancient China. The circular temple structure itself is meant to reflect heaven, while the square surrounding areas symbolize earth, emphasizing the harmonious balance between the two forces. Your guide will also highlight the role of the emperor as the Son of Heaven, who served as the intermediary between heaven and earth. The emperor’s prayers at this site were seen as vital for maintaining the cosmic order and ensuring the prosperity of the land. As you explore the Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests and other key structures, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of China’s ancient rituals, beliefs, and the symbolic importance of this architectural marvel in Chinese history.

After a day of historical exploration, your guide will take you to a renowned local restaurant to enjoy the iconic Peking Duck, a dish that stands as a true symbol of Beijing’s culinary heritage. Famous for its crispy skin and tender meat, Peking Duck offers a perfect balance of flavors—rich and savory with a hint of sweetness. As you savor each bite, your guide will share the rich history behind this beloved dish, tracing its origins back to the Ming Dynasty, where it was initially prepared for imperial banquets. Over the centuries, Peking Duck has evolved into one of the most famous Chinese dishes, and it has become a must-try for anyone visiting Beijing. Your guide will explain the traditional preparation methods, including the time-honored roasting technique, where the duck is air-dried and roasted to perfection in an oven, resulting in a crispy, golden-brown skin that is as much a treat for the eyes as it is for the palate. The meat is carefully carved tableside, and it’s often served wrapped in thin pancakes along with sweet bean paste and scallions to complement the rich flavors. 

Day 3. Beijing

Today’s adventure begins with a visit to the Beijing Panda House at the Beijing Zoo, where you’ll have the chance to observe the beloved giant pandas in a naturalistic environment. Your guide will explain the efforts of China’s wildlife conservation programs and share fascinating facts about these endangered animals. You'll have time to watch the pandas at play and feeding time, and your guide will provide insight into their life cycles, behavior, and the challenges they face.Today’s adventure begins with a visit to the Beijing Panda House at the Beijing Zoo, where you’ll have the chance to observe the beloved giant pandas in a naturalistic environment. Your guide will explain the efforts of China’s wildlife conservation programs and share fascinating facts about these endangered animals. You'll have time to watch the pandas at play and feeding time, and your guide will provide insight into their life cycles, behavior, and the challenges they face.

In the afternoon, head to the Lama Temple, one of the most important Tibetan Buddhist temples outside Tibet. Also known as the Yonghe Temple, this stunning site is a significant spiritual destination, attracting thousands of pilgrims and visitors every year. Located in the heart of Beijing, the temple is a beautiful example of traditional Tibetan Buddhist architecture, blending both Tibetan and Han Chinese elements. Your guide will explain the fascinating history of the temple, which was originally built in 1694 during the Qing Dynasty as a residence for a prince and later converted into a lamasery. The temple has become an essential center for the practice of Tibetan Buddhism in China. One of the temple's most famous and awe-inspiring attractions is the giant Maitreya Buddha statue, standing at an incredible 18 meters tall. Carved from a single piece of sandalwood, this magnificent statue is not only a marvel of craftsmanship but also a symbol of compassion and enlightenment in Tibetan Buddhist tradition. As you explore the temple’s sacred halls and tranquil courtyards, your guide will provide insights into the spiritual practices and rituals associated with Tibetan Buddhism. 

Following your visit, you’ll head to Shichahai, a picturesque area that offers a charming blend of traditional courtyard houses and tranquil lakes, providing a peaceful escape from the busy city. This historic district offers a rare glimpse into Beijing’s cultural heritage, with its ancient architecture and serene environment. Your guide will lead you through the narrow, winding lanes and quaint alleys of Shichahai, sharing the fascinating history of the area, which was once a vibrant center for Beijing’s elite. In the past, it was home to scholars, artists, and government officials, contributing to its rich cultural and intellectual atmosphere. As you stroll through the area, your guide will explain the significance of the hutongs (traditional alleyways) and how these narrow, winding streets reflect the architectural style and lifestyle of old Beijing. The ancient buildings with their ornate wooden doors and distinctive rooftops transport you back in time to an era when life was simpler, slower, and deeply connected to the community.

Your guide will then lead you to Nanluoguxiang, a lively, ancient street that beautifully blends old Beijing charm with modern boutique shops, cafes, and bars. As you walk down this vibrant street, you’ll explore the traditional hutongs (narrow alleyways), which reflect the rich cultural history of Beijing’s old neighborhoods. Nanluoguxiang is one of the oldest streets in Beijing, and as you stroll through it, you’ll encounter classic courtyard houses, tree-lined streets, and local businesses that have been passed down through generations. Along the way, your guide will share insights into Beijing’s architectural heritage, explaining the significance of hutongs as vital components of the city's cultural identity. Nanluoguxiang is the perfect example of this balance, as it has become a hub of creativity, where traditional architecture meets modern design, offering you a glimpse into how Beijing is honoring its past while embracing the future.

Day 4. Beijing

Begin your day by visiting one of Beijing’s traditional morning markets, where the hustle and bustle of local life is in full swing. These markets are lively hubs where Beijingers gather to shop for fresh produce, herbs, meats, and a variety of other essential items for their daily meals. As you wander through the stalls, your guide will explain the vibrant market culture, offering you a deeper understanding of how these markets play a key role in the lives of locals. This is also a wonderful chance to interact with the friendly vendors, who are often happy to share stories about their products and the local food traditions. As you explore, you’ll have the opportunity to sample a variety of local snacks, such as jianbing, a popular Chinese pancake filled with savory ingredients like eggs, herbs, and sauces, or baozi, steamed buns filled with either meat or vegetables. These delicious treats provide a taste of Beijing’s street food culture. Your guide will help you learn about the ingredients, food preparation, and local eating habits, giving you a unique introduction to Beijing’s rich culinary culture. This immersive experience will leave you with a deeper appreciation for the food traditions that shape everyday life in this vibrant city.

After exploring the market, you’ll head to a nearby local restaurant for lunch, where your guide will introduce you to typical Beijing-style dishes. You might try noodles, which are a beloved staple in Beijing’s cuisine, often served with tender meats and a variety of vegetables in rich, flavorful broths. Your guide will explain the cultural significance of these dishes, highlighting how they’ve become integral to Beijing’s daily life and how the preparation methods have evolved over centuries. After lunch, your guide will take you to the Mutianyu Great Wall, one of the best-preserved sections of the Great Wall of China. Unlike the busier Badaling section, Mutianyu offers a quieter and more scenic experience, providing a perfect setting for reflection and exploration. You’ll learn about the strategic importance of the Wall, its construction, and its role in protecting ancient China from invasions. Your guide will lead you on a short hike up the Wall, offering fascinating stories about its military significance and the bravery of the soldiers who once defended it. Be sure to take in the spectacular panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and the Wall winding across the landscape.

On your way back to Beijing, you’ll stop by the Bird’s Nest (National Stadium), an architectural marvel built for the 2008 Beijing Olympics. This stunning structure has since become a symbol of modern China, representing the country’s innovation and global significance. Your guide will share fascinating insights into the construction of the stadium, which was designed by renowned architects Herzog & de Meuron, as well as its pivotal role during the Olympic Games. While you can’t go inside, the exterior of the Bird’s Nest is still an awe-inspiring sight, with its unique interwoven steel structure and futuristic design. It’s a fantastic spot for photos, capturing the contrast between Beijing’s modern architectural feats and its ancient history. After a day full of exploration, return to your hotel to relax and unwind. If you're not too tired, your guide can take you to a local tea house for a soothing tea ceremony, where you'll learn about the art of Chinese tea drinking and the rich history behind different types of tea, such as green, oolong, and black tea. Alternatively, if you prefer a more indulgent experience, enjoy a traditional Peking Duck dinner at one of Beijing’s renowned restaurants, savoring the crispy duck skin and tender meat, a true highlight of the city's culinary heritage.

Day 5. Beijing to Shanghai

After breakfast, your guide will escort you to the Beijing Railway Station for your high-speed train to Shanghai. The ride takes around 4.5 to 5 hours, offering comfortable seating and scenic views of the countryside. During the journey, your guide will provide interesting information about the regions you pass through and give you a brief introduction to Shanghai's history and culture to prepare you for the next part of your adventure. Your guide will help you choose some train-friendly food and explain how train travel and dining culture differ across China. Upon arrival in Shanghai, your local guide will be waiting for you at the train station holding a “Your Way Holiday” sign for easy identification. This ensures a smooth and stress-free start to your day of exploration. Your guide will provide you with expert insights and take you through the day’s carefully planned itinerary, making sure you get the most out of your visit to the city’s most iconic landmarks. With their assistance, you’ll enjoy a seamless and enriching experience, as they share fascinating details about each site and help you make the most of your time in this vibrant metropolis. Take some time to check in and relax after your journey. If you have energy, your guide will suggest a nearby café or area to explore, offering you a glimpse of Shanghai’s dynamic atmosphere.

In the evening, your guide will take you to the Yuyuan Garden, a beautifully preserved traditional Chinese garden located in the heart of Shanghai. This tranquil oasis offers a perfect escape from the bustling city. As you stroll through the elegant pavilions, intricate rockeries, and serene ponds, your guide will explain the history of the garden and the traditional principles of Chinese garden design, which focus on harmony with nature, balance, and symbolism. The garden’s layout is designed to reflect the natural world, with carefully placed rocks, plants, and water features creating a peaceful atmosphere that has been appreciated for centuries. After exploring the garden, you’ll visit the adjacent Yuyuan Bazaar, a vibrant marketplace filled with a variety of local crafts, traditional teas, and souvenirs. Your guide will explain the cultural significance of the items you see, from handcrafted trinkets to ancient tea sets, offering recommendations for authentic Shanghai souvenirs that reflect the city’s rich heritage. After a day full of exploration and cultural immersion, you’ll return to your hotel to relax, reflect on your experiences, and enjoy a peaceful evening.

Day 6. Shanghai

Start your day with a visit to Nanjing Road, one of the most famous and iconic shopping streets in the world. This bustling pedestrian street stretches for miles, offering a fascinating blend of luxury retail outlets and local shops selling everything from modern fashion to unique, traditional Chinese items. As you walk down the vibrant street, your guide will lead you through its bustling crowds, explaining how the road seamlessly integrates high-end shopping with the charm of local street vendors. You’ll get a true sense of Shanghai’s vibrant commercial culture, where global brands and local artisans coexist side by side. Your guide will also share the history of Nanjing Road, beginning from its humble origins as a small commercial street during the early 19th century to its current status as one of the world’s most visited shopping destinations. They’ll explain how the street has evolved through Shanghai’s transformation into a global metropolis, maintaining its position at the heart of the city’s ever-changing landscape. This walk will provide an exciting introduction to Shanghai's blend of modernity and tradition.

After shopping, enjoy a delicious lunch at a nearby restaurant renowned for its Shanghai-style xiaolongbao (soup dumplings). These dumplings are a beloved specialty in Shanghai, and your guide will take the time to explain the intricate process of making these xiaolongbao, from the preparation of the delicate dough to the precise technique used to fold and steam them. Your guide will also show you the best way to eat these dumplings without burning yourself on the hot, flavorful broth inside—by gently nibbling a small hole in the skin to release the steam before taking a bite. As you enjoy the dumplings, you’ll learn about the cultural and culinary history behind Shanghai’s food culture. The city’s cuisine is heavily influenced by both its local traditions and the international interactions it’s had over the centuries, especially with Western countries and other Asian cultures. Your guide will explain how Shanghai’s food has evolved, incorporating flavors, techniques, and ingredients from across the globe, while still retaining its unique identity. This meal offers a deeper understanding of how Shanghai's cosmopolitan nature has shaped its culinary traditions.

In the afternoon, you’ll head to the French Concession, a charming and historic neighborhood that beautifully reflects Shanghai's colonial past. As you stroll through its tree-lined streets, your guide will walk you past quaint cafés, stylish boutiques, and old European-style buildings, which transport you to a different era. The French Concession is known for its unique blend of European and Chinese architecture, where colonial-era mansions sit next to traditional shikumen houses, symbolizing Shanghai’s cosmopolitan history. Your guide will explain how this area, once a French settlement, has evolved into a vibrant cultural hub, preserving elements of its colonial past while embracing modernity. You'll get to see firsthand how Shanghai blends its Western influences with traditional Chinese culture, creating a distinctive atmosphere of both old and new. If you’re in the mood for more exploration, your guide will recommend additional spots in the area, like the peaceful Fuxing Park or the lively Tianzifang, where you can wander through art studios, craft shops, and local galleries. This stroll through the French Concession will give you a deeper appreciation of Shanghai’s rich historical layers and dynamic culture.

After exploring the French Concession, your guide will take you to The Bund, Shanghai’s famous waterfront area, offering one of the most iconic views of the city. The Bund is lined with historic colonial-era buildings, each with its own unique architectural style, ranging from Art Deco to Neoclassical. These buildings stand in stark contrast to the modern skyline of Pudong across the river, which is home to towering skyscrapers like the Shanghai Tower and the Oriental Pearl Tower. Your guide will explain the historical significance of the Bund, which played a pivotal role in Shanghai’s development as a major trading port during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, and how it became a symbol of China’s modern economic growth. After your exploration of the Bund, you’ll board a boat cruise on the Huangpu River to enjoy breathtaking views of both the historic and modern parts of the city. As you cruise along the river, your guide will share fascinating stories about Shanghai’s transformation over the years, from its early days as a colonial trading hub to its rise as a global financial center. This relaxing boat ride offers a unique opportunity to appreciate the stunning contrast between the past and present, making for a truly unforgettable experience in Shanghai.

Day 7. Shanghai Departure

Start your final day in Shanghai with a visit to the Oriental Pearl Tower, one of the city’s most iconic landmarks and a true symbol of modern Shanghai. As you approach the tower, your guide will provide detailed background information about its construction, which began in 1991 and was completed in 1994. Standing at 468 meters, the tower's unique design, with its distinctive spherical sections stacked on top of each other, makes it one of the most recognizable structures in Shanghai and a prominent feature of its skyline. Your guide will explain the tower's significance in Shanghai’s transformation into a global metropolis, particularly its role in showcasing the city’s advancement in architecture and technology. Once you arrive at the observation deck, you’ll have the chance to take in breathtaking panoramic views of the city. From here, you’ll be able to see the entire cityscape, with the modern skyline of Pudong, the historic Bund area, and the Huangpu River stretching before you. The views are truly spectacular, offering a perfect way to appreciate the city’s growth and evolution, making this a highlight of your time in Shanghai.

After visiting the Oriental Pearl Tower, enjoy lunch at a nearby restaurant. Your guide will introduce you to Shanghai’s braised pork or shark fin soup, offering insight into the regional flavors and food culture. you’ll have some free time to do last-minute shopping at one of Shanghai's modern shopping malls or explore any areas you might have missed. Your guide will assist with picking up souvenirs or offering recommendations for cultural experiences before heading to the airport. Your 7 days Beijing and Shanghai Tour come to end. Have a pleasent trip!

Price Per Person in US Dollars

Price Includes 1.Cozy Ride: Enjoy the comfort and spaciousness of our air-conditioned car, offering scenic views. 2.Bilingual Expert Guide: Benefit from a personalized experience with a guide fluent in your language, catering to your needs. 3.Entrance Fees: Access all attractions and activities mentioned in the itinerary without worrying about additional entrance fees. 4.Seamless Transfer: Enhance your experience with convenient hotel or train station pickup and drop-off service. 5.Connect Seamlessly: Stay connected with complimentary onboard WiFi, allowing you to share your experiences in real-time. 6.City-to-City Train Tickets: Include the cost of train or flight tickets between the cities listed in the itinerary, ensuring a smooth and efficient travel experience. 7.Complimentary Water: Receive a complimentary bottle of water for each person, keeping you refreshed throughout your journey. 8.Travel Agency Liability Insurance: Benefit from coverage under our travel agency liability insurance, providing added protection and peace of mind during your trip.

Price Excludes 1.Personal Expenses: This includes phone bills, laundry, additional tours, postage, and any entertainment fees not covered in the itinerary. 2.Meals: While meals are not included, our guide will recommend the best local food spots, giving you the chance to explore and choose based on your preferences. (Average cost per person for a regular meal at local eateries: 40RMB/6USD-80RMB/12USD) 3.Tips: Tips are not mandatory but are recommended for excellent service. If you feel satisfied with the service, you may consider leaving a tip. 4.Insurance: Insurance coverage for personal loss, illness, or damages incurred during your trip is not included. 5.Optional Activities: Any optional activities listed in the itinerary are not included in the tour fees, allowing you to choose and participate based on your preferences. 6.Accommodation: Hotel stays are not included in the package. However, we will gladly recommend reputable and comfortable hotels for your consideration, ensuring a pleasant stay during your trip.