7 Days China Ancient Capital Beijing, Xian Tour | Legacy of Empires

Summary

Itinerary Highlight
Day 1 Beijing: Arrive in Beijing
Day 2 Beijing: Forbidden City, Summer Palace, Temple of Heaven
Day 3 Beijing: The Great Wall, High-Speed Train to Xi'an
Day 4 Xi'an: Terracotta Warriors, Big Wild Goose Pagoda
Day 5 Xi'an: Xi’an Ancient City Wall, Muslim Quarter, Shaanxi History Museum
Day 6 Xi'an: Hanyangling Mausoleum, Forest of Stone Steles, Bell Tower
Day 7 Xi'an: Xi'an, Departure

Day 1. Beijing Arrival

Welcome to Beijing! Your adventure begins the moment you land in Beijing, where you will be greeted by your friendly local guide. They will be holding a “Your Way Holiday” sign with your name, ensuring you’re not lost in the hustle of the airport. Your guide will escort you directly to your vehicle, helping with your luggage and providing a smooth transition from the airport to your hotel. Along the way, your guide will offer a comprehensive introduction to the city, sharing the stories behind its ancient landmarks and modern transformation. You will also receive a quick briefing about the itinerary for the days ahead, as well as some helpful tips for navigating Beijing.

After arriving at your hotel, take the time to check in and relax after your flight. If you're feeling energetic, you can take a short stroll around the neighborhood with your guide. They will help you get acquainted with the local surroundings, suggest nearby cafes or shops, and introduce you to the city's vibrant atmosphere. If you’re up for an evening meal, your guide will take you to a renowned local restaurant to savor the famous Peking Duck. They’ll explain the cultural significance of this dish and guide you through the traditional method of eating it. This will give you an introduction to the dining culture in Beijing, setting the tone for your culinary journey through China.

Day 2. Beijing

Begin your day with a visit to the magnificent Forbidden City, once home to 24 emperors. As you step through the grand Meridian Gate, your guide will take you back in time, narrating stories of dynastic rule, the intricate lives of the emperors, and the significance of each architectural detail. You will learn about the symbolism behind the layout of the palace, from its alignment with the cosmos to the Feng Shui principles that guided its construction. Explore the grand halls, serene courtyards, and lush gardens with your guide, who will provide fascinating historical context at every corner. Don't miss the Hall of Supreme Harmony, where imperial ceremonies were held, or the exquisite Imperial Garden, where emperors sought solace.

After exploring the grandeur of the Forbidden City, you’ll indulge in a delightful lunch at a local restaurant, where you’ll have the opportunity to sample Beijing’s renowned culinary specialties. Your guide will introduce you to a variety of traditional dishes, such as succulent dumplings, hand-pulled noodles, and crispy Peking duck, explaining the rich history and regional variations of each. You’ll learn how these dishes evolved over centuries, reflecting the diverse flavors and cultural influences of the city. This lunch also provides a chance to delve deeper into local food customs, from the art of sharing meals to the etiquette of enjoying hotpot. Your guide will offer personalized recommendations for where to find the most authentic experiences, ensuring that every bite is both a culinary and cultural discovery.

After lunch, continue your journey to the Temple of Heaven, a peaceful and spiritual site where Chinese emperors once prayed for good harvests. As you stroll through the expansive grounds, your guide will share fascinating details about how the temple was meticulously designed to align with the cosmos, symbolizing the harmony between heaven and earth. The Circular Mound Altar, an ancient site for sacrificial rituals, the Echo Wall, known for its unique acoustics, and the Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests, with its majestic, soaring structure, all hold profound symbolic meaning. Your guide will offer rich stories and historical insights that bring each of these iconic landmarks to life. This visit serves as an excellent introduction to China’s intricate connection between architecture, religion, and the natural world, providing a deep understanding of the cultural and spiritual philosophies that shaped this remarkable site.

End your day with a visit to the Summer Palace, a true gem of Chinese garden design and a tranquil retreat that once served as a sanctuary for emperors during the sweltering summer months. Your guide will lead you on a leisurely stroll through this vast imperial garden, offering insights into its historical significance. As you wander through its exquisite pavilions, lush gardens, and peaceful lakes, you’ll encounter the Long Corridor, a covered walkway adorned with intricate painted scenes depicting Chinese history and mythology. The iconic Marble Boat, sitting gracefully on the lake, symbolizes imperial extravagance. Your guide will also share captivating stories about Empress Dowager Cixi, whose influence was crucial in shaping the palace’s final design. This visit is a perfect blend of history, art, and nature, providing a peaceful yet profound end to your day of exploration.

After a full day of exploration, your guide will escort you back to your hotel, giving you time to relax and reflect on the sights of the day. However, if you’re looking to continue your cultural immersion, your guide can take you to a renowned local hotpot restaurant, where you’ll dive into an unforgettable culinary experience. Hotpot is more than just a meal; it’s a social ritual. As you gather around a bubbling pot of broth, your guide will help you select the freshest ingredients, from tender meats and vegetables to aromatic herbs and spices. They'll show you the best techniques for cooking your ingredients to perfection and offer tips on how to savor the flavors for an authentic experience. Sharing this meal with fellow travelers will add an extra layer of connection, turning dinner into a memorable cultural experience filled with conversation, laughter, and the joy of discovering Beijing's food scene together.

Day 3. Beijing to Xi'an

Today, you’ll embark on an early excursion to the Mutianyu section of the Great Wall, which is renowned for its stunning views and fewer crowds compared to the more popular Badaling section. Mutianyu offers a more peaceful experience, allowing you to connect with the history of the Wall in a less commercialized setting. Your guide will explain the strategic importance of the Wall, recounting the history of its construction, the challenges faced by the workers, and the ancient military practices that led to its creation. As you hike along the Wall, your guide will share fascinating stories about the soldiers who defended it and the many battles that took place here over the centuries. You’ll learn about the defensive techniques used in ancient China to protect the empire from invaders. 

After descending from the Wall, your guide will take you to a nearby local restaurant to try regional dishes such as grilled lamb skewers, noodles, and savory stews. After a fulfilling lunch, you will transfer to Beijing Railway Station for your high-speed train journey to Xi’an. The journey is comfortable and efficient, providing the perfect opportunity to relax and enjoy the landscape. Upon your arrival at Xi'an Railway Station, your personal guide and driver will be there to greet you, holding a "Your Way Holiday" sign for easy identification. They’ll assist you with your luggage and provide a brief overview of Xi'an’s key attractions, helping you get a sense of the city’s historic significance. Afterward, you’ll enjoy a comfortable private transfer to your hotel. Along the way, your guide will highlight notable landmarks, offer fascinating insights into Xi’an’s ancient culture, and answer any questions you may have. 

Day 4. Xi'an

Today’s highlight is the world-famous Terracotta Army, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of China’s greatest archaeological discoveries. Your guide will take you through the vast excavation pits, explaining the history and significance of these life-sized warriors, each of whom has unique features. You’ll learn about the emperor who commissioned their creation, Emperor Qin Shi Huang, and the painstaking process of their excavation. Your guide will help you understand the importance of the Terracotta Army in the context of Chinese history, highlighting their role in the emperor’s quest for immortality.

After exploring the awe-inspiring Terracotta Army, you’ll head to a nearby local restaurant to indulge in one of Xi’an’s most iconic dishes—Biangbiang noodles. These wide, hand-pulled noodles are a signature of the region, known for their bold flavors and hearty texture. Your guide will introduce you to this flavorful dish, explaining the fascinating history behind its unique name, which is said to represent the complex character for the sound of a slap and the act of pulling the noodles. As you enjoy each bite, you’ll learn about how Biangbiang noodles are crafted with care and their significant place in Xi’an’s rich culinary tradition. The dish is typically served with a spicy, garlicky sauce and topped with vegetables, giving you a deep taste of the region's robust food culture. This meal offers a perfect blend of history, flavor, and local pride, making it an essential experience in Xi’an.

After lunch, you’ll visit the Big Wild Goose Pagoda, one of Xi’an’s most iconic landmarks and a symbol of the city’s pivotal role in the spread of Buddhism throughout ancient China. Your guide will share the rich history behind this ancient structure, which was originally built during the Tang Dynasty to house Buddhist scriptures brought back from India by the monk Xuanzang. As you admire the towering pagoda, your guide will explain its architectural design, reflecting the ancient blend of Chinese and Buddhist elements. From the top, you’ll enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding area, including the city’s historical sights. Inside the pagoda, you’ll find a collection of fascinating relics and statues that illuminate the journey of Buddhism in China. This visit offers a unique glimpse into Xi’an’s cultural and spiritual heritage, making it an essential stop on your exploration of the city.

In the evening, get ready to be captivated by a spectacular Tang Dynasty cultural performance, showcasing the elegance and vibrancy of traditional Chinese music, dance, and costumes. As you settle in, your guide will provide an in-depth introduction to the Tang Dynasty, one of the most prosperous and culturally rich periods in Chinese history. You'll learn about the dynasty's contributions to art, literature, and the Silk Road. During the performance, a traditional dinner of dumplings in a variety of shapes and flavors will be served, each bite offering a taste of Xi'an’s rich culinary heritage. From delicate steamed dumplings to savory pan-fried ones, these delectable treats represent the city’s long-standing traditions in food preparation. The combination of the lively performance and authentic cuisine creates an unforgettable experience, blending history, culture, and flavors in one evening.

Day 5. Xi’an

Today, you’ll explore the Xi'an Ancient City Wall, one of the best-preserved city walls in China. Your guide will take you on a walking tour around the wall, explaining its historical significance as a defense system and its role in the city's protection. From the top of the wall, you’ll be able to admire the contrast between the ancient architecture and the modern city that has grown around it.

After your visit to the ancient city wall, you’ll head to a local restaurant for a traditional Xi’an lunch, where your guide will introduce you to some of the city’s most beloved signature dishes. You’ll try Yangrou Paomo, a rich and flavorful mutton soup served with crumbled pieces of flatbread, a dish with deep historical roots that has been enjoyed for centuries. Another local favorite you’ll sample is Roujiamo, often referred to as a Chinese hamburger—succulent, slow-cooked meat stuffed inside a warm, crispy flatbread. As you savor each bite, your guide will share the fascinating stories behind these dishes, explaining their cultural significance and the local food customs that make them so special. You’ll also learn how these meals have evolved over time and become a symbol of Xi’an’s vibrant food scene, offering a true taste of the city’s culinary heritage.

In the afternoon, your guide will lead you through the lively and vibrant Muslim Quarter of Xi’an, a fascinating area where Chinese and Islamic cultures seamlessly blend. As you wander through the bustling streets, you’ll be immersed in the sights and sounds of local street markets, with fragrant food stalls offering an array of delicious snacks like lamb skewers and fried pastries. The architecture, with its distinct Islamic influences, adds to the unique atmosphere of the area. Your guide will share the fascinating history of the Muslim community in Xi'an, explaining their significant cultural and economic contributions to the city. After exploring the lively market, you’ll visit the Shaanxi History Museum, where your guide will walk you through the most important exhibits, including ancient pottery, relics from the Tang Dynasty, and imperial treasures. This visit provides a deeper understanding of the region’s rich cultural and historical heritage, offering insights into the diverse forces that shaped Xi’an over millennia.

Day 6. Xi'an

Today, your journey takes you to the Hanyangling Mausoleum, the tomb of Emperor Jing of the Han Dynasty, located just outside of Xi'an. This lesser-known but captivating site offers an insightful look into the burial practices of the Western Han period. Unlike the more famous Terracotta Army, the Hanyangling Mausoleum remains relatively quiet, providing you with a more relaxed and immersive experience. Your guide will share the history and significance of the mausoleum, highlighting the impressive array of well-preserved artifacts. You’ll see intricate bronze items, pottery figurines, and everyday objects that reveal the daily life and rituals of the time. The site's excavation is ongoing, so you’ll also learn about the fascinating archaeological discoveries still being made. This visit offers a unique opportunity to explore ancient Chinese burial traditions and to understand the grandeur of the Han Dynasty in a peaceful, less touristy setting.

After your visit to the Hanyangling Mausoleum, your guide will take you to a local restaurant for a well-deserved lunch. This is the perfect opportunity to sample some of Xi’an’s most beloved dishes, such as youpo noodles (oil-splash noodles), a dish known for its bold, spicy flavors and unique preparation, where hot oil is poured over fresh noodles to release the fragrant spices. You’ll also try roujiamo, a delicious Chinese-style hamburger filled with tender, seasoned meat and served in a warm, crispy flatbread. As you enjoy your meal, your guide will introduce you to the ingredients and flavors that make these dishes stand out in Xi’an’s vibrant food culture. You’ll learn about their cultural significance, from their historical roots to their role in local food customs. This meal not only offers a taste of Xi'an's culinary heritage but also gives you a deeper understanding of the region’s unique food scene.

In the afternoon, your guide will take you to the Forest of Stone Steles (Beilin Museum), one of China’s most important cultural landmarks, housing one of the largest collections of ancient stone inscriptions. As you wander through this fascinating museum, your guide will explain the historical significance of the steles, which serve as invaluable records of Chinese history, literature, and art. These inscriptions, carved into stone, document everything from imperial decrees to poetic masterpieces. You’ll also have the chance to admire exquisite examples of calligraphy and intricate stone carvings, offering a deeper appreciation for this ancient art form. The museum’s tranquil environment, combined with the rich stories behind each stele, provides a rare opportunity to connect with China’s intellectual and artistic heritage, offering profound insights into the cultural evolution of the region.

In the evening, you’ll visit the Bell Tower, one of Xi’an’s most iconic landmarks, situated at the heart of the city. This impressive structure, originally built during the Ming Dynasty, was once used as a timekeeping device to signal the hours, playing a vital role in the daily life of the city. It also served as a symbol of Xi'an's strategic importance during ancient times. Your guide will share the fascinating history of the Bell Tower, explaining its role in both military and civilian life, and how it functioned as a center of communication and control. As you ascend to the top, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the bustling city below, offering a unique perspective on the blend of ancient architecture and modern life. This visit will provide you with a deeper appreciation for Xi'an’s historical significance and its role as a cultural crossroads in China’s past.

Day 7. Xi'an, Departure

On your last day, take a morning stroll through one of Xi'an's bustling local markets, where you can pick up souvenirs like Chinese silk, handicrafts, and ancient-inspired trinkets. Your guide will help you navigate the market and provide recommendations for authentic items that represent the city’s rich history. You can also ask your guide about the city's ancient silk trade or any other historical topics that interest you. After your market visit, your guide will assist with your transfer to the airport. If you have some time, your guide may take you on a final scenic route around the city to see any last-minute sights. As you board your flight, your guide will ensure all your travel details are confirmed, and you’ll leave with a wealth of memories from China’s two ancient capitals.

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.