8 Days Epic China Discovery: Beijing, Luoyang & Xian Cultural Journey

Summary

Itinerary Highlights
Day 1 Beijing: Arrive in Beijing
Day 2 Beijing: Tiananmen Square, Forbidden City, Summer Palace
Day 3 Beijing: Mutianyu Great Wall, Sacred Way, Olympic Park (Bird's Nest and Water Cube)
Day 4 Beijing-Luoyang: Temple of Heaven, Beijing to Luoyang by High-Speed Train
Day 5 Luoyang: Shaolin Temple, Pagoda Forest, martial art performance, Mount Song
Day 6 Luoyang-Xian: Luoyang Museum, Longmen Grottoes, Luoyang to Xian
Day 7 Xian: Terra-cotta Warriors and Horses Museum, Ancient city wall, Muslim Quarter
Day 8 Xian: Big Wild Goose Pagoda, Shaanxi History Museum, Xian departure

Day 1. Beijing Arrival

Welcome to China! As you step into the arrival hall at Beijing Capital International Airport, your friendly local guide will be there to greet you warmly, holding a clearly visible welcome sign that reads "Your Way Holiday." With genuine hospitality, your guide will help with your luggage and lead you to your private vehicle, where a comfortable transfer to your hotel awaits. On the way, you can get your first glimpses of Beijing—a fascinating city where centuries-old history coexists with dynamic modern life. Once you've arrived at your hotel, your guide will assist with check-in and ensure you are comfortably settled. After a long journey, you're free to relax and unwind in your room, enjoying the serene atmosphere and preparing yourself for the incredible days to come. If you feel energized, take a gentle walk nearby to get a taste of local life—perhaps stopping at a local café or wandering through a neighborhood park. Whether you choose rest or a bit of light exploration, today is all about settling in smoothly and easing into your unforgettable adventure in China.

Day 2. Beijing

In the morning, your expert guide will greet you warmly in your hotel lobby and accompany you on a journey into the heart of Beijing's cultural and political legacy. Your day begins at Tiananmen Square, one of the largest and most historically significant public squares in the world. Spanning over 440,000 square meters, this immense plaza has been a silent witness to many pivotal moments in modern Chinese history. As you stroll across its wide expanse, your guide will share insights into key events that have unfolded here—from the founding of the People’s Republic in 1949, to major national celebrations and historic parades. You’ll see towering monuments such as the Monument to the People’s Heroes and the Great Hall of the People, each carrying layers of meaning. At the northern end stands the iconic Tiananmen Gate, crowned by the giant portrait of Chairman Mao, from which he declared the birth of a new nation. Your guide will explain how this site embodies China’s political transformation and why it remains a place of national pride and remembrance.

From Tiananmen Square, you’ll pass through the grand Tiananmen Gate and enter the majestic Forbidden City, an extraordinary imperial complex that served as the political and ceremonial center of China for nearly 500 years. As you step through the towering red walls and imposing gates, you’ll be transported back to a world of emperors, dynasties, and timeless tradition. With your guide leading the way, you’ll explore a labyrinth of courtyards, grand halls, and intricate pavilions, each steeped in symbolism and imperial ritual. Learn about the powerful Ming and Qing emperors who ruled from this very site, and discover how every architectural detail—from the dragon motifs to the golden roof tiles—reflects the emperor's heavenly mandate. Your guide will bring stories to life as you walk through the Hall of Supreme Harmony, the Palace of Heavenly Purity, and the private quarters of the royal family. With nearly 9,000 rooms, the Forbidden City is vast, but your personalized tour will ensure a meaningful and accessible experience that reveals the grandeur and inner workings of China’s most iconic palace.

Following your exploration of the Forbidden City, it’s time to enjoy one of Beijing’s most iconic culinary experiences—Peking Duck. Your guide will take you to a well-known local restaurant beloved for its authentic preparation of this centuries-old imperial dish. Watch as the chef expertly carves the roasted duck tableside, serving up slices of crispy golden skin and tender meat. Wrapped in delicate pancakes with scallions and sweet bean sauce, the flavor is both rich and refined. Your guide will explain the deep cultural roots of Peking Duck, tracing its evolution from the Ming dynasty to its modern form. Alongside the main dish, you’ll also sample other Beijing specialties, each offering a taste of the city’s long culinary history. This meal isn’t just about food—it’s a cultural moment that ties together flavor, tradition, and storytelling in one unforgettable experience. It’s a chance to savor a true local treasure that defines the essence of Beijing dining.

In the afternoon, your guide will lead you to the Summer Palace, a masterpiece of classical Chinese garden design and the largest imperial garden in the country. As you enter this peaceful retreat, you’ll be greeted by sweeping lake views, intricately painted pavilions, and elegant bridges that reflect the refined aesthetics of Qing dynasty rulers. The Summer Palace served as a royal retreat, and as you walk its stone paths, your guide will explain the stories behind key landmarks like the Long Corridor, the Marble Boat, and Longevity Hill. Take in the artistic harmony between manmade structures and the natural landscape, and, if weather permits, enjoy a tranquil boat ride on Kunming Lake. This gentle cruise offers panoramic views of the gardens and distant hills mirrored in the water—a moment of serenity and beauty. With each step, you’ll understand how emperors found peace and inspiration here, making it a perfect contrast to the formal splendor of the Forbidden City.

After a full day immersed in Beijing’s imperial culture and cuisine, your guide will escort you back to your hotel. Along the way, they’ll be happy to offer recommendations for how to enjoy your free evening—whether it’s a stroll along Wangfujing Street, a visit to a nearby tea house, or a casual walk through a quiet hutong neighborhood to experience local life. Today’s journey has taken you through centuries of history, from the political heart of Tiananmen Square to the lavish halls of the Forbidden City and the serene beauty of the Summer Palace. Each destination offers a different layer of Beijing’s identity, creating a well-rounded and enriching experience. As the sun sets over the city, you’ll have time to relax, reflect, and prepare for the next chapter of your journey through China’s cultural wonders.

Day 3. Beijing

Your day begins with a warm welcome from your knowledgeable local guide, who will greet you at your hotel lobby, ready to lead you on a journey through China’s most iconic historical landmarks. After a brief introduction to the day's itinerary, you’ll set off on a scenic drive toward the Mutianyu section of the Great Wall, located about 70 kilometers northeast of central Beijing. Along the way, your guide will share engaging stories and historical context, helping you appreciate the significance of the Great Wall in Chinese history and culture. Unlike the more crowded Badaling section, Mutianyu is celebrated for its peaceful atmosphere and beautifully preserved stonework, making it a favorite among travelers seeking a more authentic experience. The winding drive through the countryside, past small villages and rolling hills, provides a gentle transition from the bustling city into the tranquil mountains where the Wall stands proudly, inviting exploration.

Upon arrival, you’ll take a cable car ride up to the wall, offering a comfortable and picturesque ascent. As you rise above the treetops, the Great Wall reveals itself—an undulating ribbon of ancient stone snaking across the rugged mountain ridges. At the summit, you’ll step onto this world wonder, where the air is crisp and the views are nothing short of breathtaking. Surrounded by dense forests and sweeping valleys, your guide will explain how this section of the Wall served as a strategic defense line during the Ming Dynasty, protecting the capital from northern invasions. You’ll explore well-preserved watchtowers and learn how soldiers once stood guard here, peering into the distance for signs of danger. The Wall stretches into the horizon, an engineering marvel that seems to defy time. Every stone underfoot holds a fragment of history, and your guide’s stories will breathe life into the legacy of emperors and warriors who shaped the destiny of a nation.

After immersing yourself in the grandeur of the Great Wall, it’s time to enjoy a well-deserved lunch at a nearby countryside restaurant, carefully selected to offer authentic regional cuisine. Our local guide will recommend popular local dishes based on real-time traffic and your preferences, letting you enjoy authentic local flavors away from touristy restaurants. In a quiet, rustic setting, you’ll be served seasonal specialties such as stir-fried vegetables from local farms, braised country-style meats, or hand-pulled noodles, each dish prepared with simplicity and heart. As you savor your meal, your guide may share more insights into the culinary traditions of northern China—how the flavors reflect the landscape and lifestyle of the region. This moment offers more than just nourishment—it’s a chance to rest, reflect, and enjoy genuine hospitality that adds warmth and intimacy to your journey.

Following lunch, you’ll continue your cultural journey with a visit to the Sacred Way, the grand ceremonial path leading to the Ming Tombs. This solemn avenue, shaded by ancient cypress trees, is flanked by a series of larger-than-life stone statues—mythical animals, court officials, and generals—all standing in silent guardianship. As you walk along this serene path, your guide will explain the symbolic meanings behind each statue and their role in protecting the emperors in the afterlife. The Sacred Way was designed as a spiritual road, where the souls of departed emperors would journey to their resting place. The peaceful environment, enhanced by the soft rustling of trees and distant mountain views, creates a contemplative mood. Your guide will share stories about Ming Dynasty burial traditions, the selection of this sacred site, and how ancestor worship continues to influence Chinese culture today. It’s a thoughtful, reflective part of the day that offers a deeper connection to the beliefs that shaped imperial China.

The final sightseeing stop of the day brings you back into modern times at Beijing’s Olympic Green, home to the city’s most iconic 21st-century architectural landmarks. First, you'll visit the Bird’s Nest (National Stadium), designed by Swiss architects Herzog & de Meuron and known for its interwoven steel structure resembling a giant nest. The design represents unity and resilience and played host to the 2008 Summer Olympics, an event that signaled China’s arrival on the global stage. Your guide will share stories of its construction, the events it hosted, and its cultural symbolism. Just nearby, the Water Cube (National Aquatics Center) presents a striking contrast with its bubble-like translucent exterior, evoking the fluidity and elegance of water. It too played a central role in the Olympics, hosting swimming and diving events. Together, these two landmarks offer a glimpse into contemporary China—ambitious, innovative, and deeply connected to both tradition and progress.

As the sun begins to set, your guide and driver will accompany you back to your hotel, ensuring a comfortable and relaxing end to a full day of exploration. Along the ride, you may find yourself reflecting on the extraordinary range of experiences you’ve had—from standing atop the ancient stones of the Great Wall to walking in the solemn footsteps of emperors, then marveling at modern feats of engineering and design. This day has been a rare blend of history, heritage, and innovation—woven together by your guide’s deep knowledge and storytelling. Whether you choose to relax for the evening or step out to enjoy more of Beijing’s vibrant nightlife, you’ll carry with you a sense of connection to both the ancient spirit and modern heartbeat of China. It’s a day that not only showcases the highlights of Beijing, but also invites you to feel the enduring legacy of its past and the inspiring energy of its present.

Day 4. Beijing-Luoyang

In the morning, our guide will meet your at your hotel lobby.

The sightseeing today starts with a visit to the remarkable Temple of Heaven, The temple was constructed in 1420 during the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644), and was enlarged during the Qing Dynasty (1644-1911). It is the grandest cult architecture complex in the world and a masterpiece of the Chinese people created in ancient times. It covers 2,700,000 square meters (667 acres). Emperors of the two dynasties used to worship the heaven and pray for rich harvests, as the feudal emperors thought they were the son of the heaven.

Afterwards, drive you to Beijing train station for the high speed train to Xi'an, which takes approximately 5 hours, and along the way, feel free to admire a totally different scenery of the countryside. 

Upon arriving at the Xi'an North Station, Xi'an tour guide will pick you up with a welcome signal "China Private Tour" and escort you to the hotel. 

Day 5. Luoyang

Firstly, drive you to Terra-cotta Warriors and Horses Museum, Terra-cotta Warriors and Horses:Known as “the eighth Wonders of the world”, the museum shows a surprisingly high level in sculpture which is listed as the most significant discovery of the 20th century. Up to now, there has discovered a total of 179 accompanying burial pits of different connotations and various shapes in Qinshihuang’s Mausoleum area. The discovery of these pits has provided all important significance in the research of the burial system of the Qinshihuang’s Mausoleum, the characteristics structures and characteristics of the burial pits. However, what makes people feel amazing is that of all the burial pits, none has been found survived from being burnt down. 

Your lunch is arranged at local restaurant with authenic Xi'an food.

In the afternoon, head for the Xian Museum. Xi'an Museum has an overall coverage of 245 hectares, which was officially opened to the public in May 2007. This museum collectively reflects the long history of Xi'an city and consists of three main parts of the small Wild Goose Pagoda, which is the national key protection culture unit, the ancient building groups of Jianfu Temple, and the modern culture relic exhibition hall. 

The last stop is Muslim Quarter. The Muslim Quarter is the largest of the old city's neighborhoods. It's a confusing array of narrow alleys that are wonderful to wander in, get lost, and stumble upon surprising discoveries. Muslim Quarter houses a large number of important Christian institutions. The Muslim quarter begins at the northern city wall, goes south to the northern and western walls of the Temple Mount, to Hashalshelet Street, where the Jewish Quarter begins. To the West, it runs to Beit Chabad Street, which runs between it and the Christian Quarter.

After the day tour, get to the Shaanxi Grand Opera House around 6:00PM and our tour guide will help you find your seat for the most famous Xi'an Dumpling Feast within the Opera House.Dumpling, or Jiaozi in Chinese, is one of the most representative Chinese food. Nearly 20 varieties are made and inside the dumplings are stuffed with delicious vegetables, meats and seafood. Dumplings' legend offers an original approach to Chinese food, merging the familiar comfort food of London’s Chinatown with the culinary heritage of regional oriental cuisine.

Drive you back to your hotel.

Day 6. Luoyang-Xian

After breakfast, our tour guide will meet you at your hotel lobby and your tour start.

Today your first destination is the Ancient City Wall. as one of the UNESCO's World Heritage Site, Xi'an Ancient City Wall was built in the 14th century, under the regime of Emperor Zhuyuanzhang in Ming dynasty, had the function of protecting the cities or towns as military defense systems in ancient China. Xi'an Ancient City Wall is one of the oldest, largest and best preserved Chinese city walls.

Continue your tour to Bell Tower, which located in south east of the Drum Tower. In Chinese history from Ming Dynasty, each city had a bell tower and a drum tower. The bell was sounded at dawn and the drum at dusk each day in ancient time, a means of telling time. Xian was not exception. The Bell Tower and Drum Tower of Xi'an date back to the Ming dynasty (1368-1644). The two are located in the center of the Xian city connecting the four roads from east, south, west and north within the city wall. Atop the Bell Tower you will have a panoramic view of the Xian City. A number of highlighted cultural relics are exhibited in Xi'an Bell Tower, including a huge bell, inscribed steles and couplets hung on the column, all of which are of high historical and cultural values. Between the Drum Tower and the Bell Tower, there is a square with grass, dotted with greenbelt beautiful acouto-optic fountain, which is a good place for leisure and entertainment for citizens.

After the tour, you will be taken to Xi'an train station and take the high-speed train to Luoyang. You will be greeted by our local Luoyang tour guide once arrived, drive you back to your hotel in Luoyang.

Day 7. Xian

Today you will start your tour with Longmen Grotto, the Longmen Grottoes are some of the finest examples of Chinese Buddhist art. Housing tens of thousands of statues of Buddha and his disciples. There are as many as 100,000 statues within the 2,345 caves, ranging from an 1 inch (25 mm) to 57 feet (17 m) in height. The area also contains nearly 2,500 stelae and inscriptions, whence the name “Forest of Ancient Stelae", as well as over sixty Buddhist pagodas. Situated in a scenic natural environment, the caves were dug from a 1 kilometre (0.62 mi) stretch of cliff running along both banks of the river. 

Starting with the Northern Wei Dynasty in 493 AD, patrons and donors included emperors, Wu Zetian of the Second Zhou Dynasty, members of the royal family, other rich families, generals, and religious groups. Longmen Grotto is regarded as "an outstanding manifestation of human artistic creativity," for its perfection of an art form, and for its encapsulation of the cultural sophistication of Tang China. 

Then head to Luoyang Museum, which is a local historical museum in Luoyang. Situated in the Yellow River valley. It offers exhibits of the rich cultural heritage of Luoyang, a major Chinese cultural centre, which was the capital of more than a dozen ancient dynasties of the Xia and the East Zhou. 

It houses relics from excavation sites on the outskirts of Luoyang, in the city's old section. They include antiquaries from palaces and temples. These artifacts establish the historical past of Luoyang, representing elements of the ancient city of nine capitals, from Neolithic times up to 937 AD. The Luoyang Ancient Tombs Museum also contains archaeological finds, but it specializes in tombs as more than 10,000 have been found in the local area. 

After the tour ends, drive you back to your hotel.

Day 8. Xian Departure

In the morning, our guide will meet you at your hotel lobby and drive you to visit White Horse Temple. White Horse Temple is the first Buddhist temple in China, established in 68 AD under the patronage of Emperor Ming in the Eastern Han dynasty capital Luoyang. The site is just outside the walls of the ancient Eastern Han capital, east of Luoyang in Henan Province. It is considered by most believers as "the cradle of Chinese Buddhism". The geographical landmarks to the south are Manghan Mountain and Lucoche River.

Your lunch is arranged at Shaolin Temple, to learn the temple diet and try some food in temple. Lunch at the Shaolin temple is served at 11:30 a.m. and consists of tofu and rice paired with a mixture of five or six different types of raw or cooked vegetables. The monks do not use garlic, ginger, onions or any type of spice when preparing their meals, believing that spicy, hot or strong-smelling foods excite emotion. Water and tea is not served with meals in order to improve digestion, says Bo. If you are trying to replicate a Shaolin-style lunch at home, choose brown rice for additional fiber and avoid deep-frying the vegetables and tofu in favor of steaming or stir-frying with minimal oil.

Next, you will visit Shaolin Temple, also known as the Shaolin Monastery, which is a Buddhist temple in Dengfeng County, Luoyang. Dating back 1,500 years when founded by Fang Lu-Hao, Shaolin Temple is the main temple of the Shaolin school of Buddhism to this day. Shaolin Monastery and its Pagoda Forest is a UNESCO World Heritage Site as part of the "Historic Monuments of Dengfeng".

At end of the tour, you will be taken to Luoyang train station for the train to Beijing or your designal destination.

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: For itineraries involving high-speed rail travel, assistance with booking ensures a smooth and efficient experience. 7. Selected Hotels and Daily Breakfast: Experience a comfortable stay in handpicked hotels, each chosen for its quality and amenities. Enjoy a daily breakfast at the hotel, starting your day on a delicious note. 8. Complimentary Water: Receive a complimentary bottle of water for each person, keeping you refreshed throughout your journey. 9. 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. The tipping standards are as follows: Driver: 50-100 RMB per day/group; Guide: 100-200 RMB per day/group. 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.