Welcome to China - Beijing - Shanghai

Itinerary: 

Day 1: depart from San Francisco Airport.

Day 2: arrive Beijing. Check in hotel, Rest of the day at leisure. 

Day 3: Beijing / Tiananmen Square, Forbidden City

Day 4: Beijing / Juyongguan Section of the Great Wall, Jade Museum

Day 5: Beijing / Temple of Heaven

Day 6: Beijing to Wuxi / Lihu Lake Park

Day 7: Wuxi to Suzhou / Lingering Garden, Pearl Museum

Day 8: Suzhou to Hangzhou / West Lake

Day 9: Shanghai / The Bund, Longjing Tea Plantation

Day 10: Shanghai / World-Class Shanghai Museum, City God Temple (Chenghuangmiao)

Day 11: arrive San Francisco. All times are estimated. 

Price: All inclusive from $3,000 to $3,500 per person based on seat number on bus. Deposit 50%. Double occupancy. 

o $3,000 seat # 45-48.

o $3,050 seat # 41-44.

o $3,100 seat # 37-40.

o $3,150 seat # 33-36.

o $3,200 seat # 29-32.

o $3,250 seat # 25-28.

o $3,300 seat # 21-24.

o $3,350 seat # 17-20.

o $3,400 seat # 13-16.

o $3,450 seat # 09-12.

o $3,500 seat # 05-08.

Included: Hotel, bus, tour guide Thanh Tran, ...

En route, when it is necessary we reserve the right to make any changes without prior notice.

Day 1-2: San Francisco to Beijing

We will be flying from San Francisco to Beijing.

Meet and greet at the airport, followed by transfer to your hottle for check-in. The rest of the day is free for you to relax, recover from your journey.

Day 3: Beijing / Tiananmen Square, Forbidden City

Our day begins at Tiananmen Square, the symbolic heart of China. As one of the largest public squares in the world, it is surrounded by monumental buildings, including the Great Hall of the People and the National Museum. The vast open space reflects the grandeur and scale of Beijing, while the carefully designed layout showcases China’s rich history and culture. Walking through the square, you can truly appreciate its significance as a national landmark and a symbol of the country’s heritage.

Just north of Tiananmen Square stands the Forbidden City, the sprawling imperial palace that was home to Chinese emperors for centuries. Covering nearly 180 acres, the complex is a masterpiece of traditional Chinese architecture, with golden rooftops, intricately carved gates, and vast courtyards. Every corner reflects the grandeur, power, and artistry of ancient China, making it one of the world’s most iconic cultural landmarks.

Day 4: Beijing / Juyongguan Section of the Great Wall, Jade Museum

For this day, we will visit the legendary Great Wall of China, focusing on the Juyongguan Section. Nestled in the mountains just north of Beijing, Juyongguan is one of the most famous and historically significant passes of the Great Wall. Dating back to the Ming Dynasty, this section features well-preserved watchtowers, steep steps, and breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys. Stretching across rugged peaks, the enormous stone walls and towering watchtowers stand as a testament to centuries of human effort, perseverance, and sacrifice. Every brick and step reflects the blood, sweat, and determination of the countless workers who built and maintained this remarkable structure over generations.

Next, we will visit the Jade Museum, where we will explore the cultural significance of jade in Chinese history. The museum displays exquisite jade carvings, from delicate jewelry to intricate sculptures, each reflecting centuries of craftsmanship and tradition. Jade has long been revered in China for its beauty, symbolism, and spiritual meaning, and the exhibits reveal how it has shaped art, culture, and daily life over generations.

Day 5: Beijing / Temple of Heaven

Today we will visit the majestic Temple of Heaven, an iconic symbol of ancient Chinese spirituality and imperial tradition. Built during the Ming Dynasty, this stunning complex was where emperors once performed sacred ceremonies to pray for good harvests and the well-being of the nation. Its elegant circular and square architecture reflects the harmony between heaven and earth, while the expansive grounds and intricate details showcase the artistry and philosophy of ancient China.

After that, we will explore the culture of Traditional Chinese Medicine Culture, an integral part of Chinese life and health philosophy for thousands of years. Here, you will learn about natural healing methods such as acupuncture, acupressure, and the use of herbal remedies, as well as how these practices are harmoniously combined with daily lifestyle and nutrition. These experiences and stories of traditional medicine not only carry historical value but also help visitors gain a deeper understanding of the philosophy of balance between yin and yang, health, and spirit in Chinese culture.

Day 6: Beijing to Wuxi / Lihu Lake Park

We will travel to Wuxi by high-speed train, enjoying the comfort and efficiency of modern Chinese rail travel as we glide through the countryside. Upon arrival, we will head to Lihu Lake Park, a stunning natural retreat that is famous for its scenic beauty and peaceful ambiance. The park is surrounded by lush landscapes, gently rolling hills, and clear, sparkling waters that create a serene and refreshing atmosphere. As we walk along the lakeside paths, you’ll have plenty of time to relax, take photos, and breathe in the calm air. This visit offers a perfect balance of nature and tranquility, allowing you to unwind and fully appreciate the charming beauty of Wuxi.

Day 7: Wuxi to Suzhou / Lingering Garden, Pearl Museum

Today we will be visiting the beautiful Lingering Garden in Suzhou, one of the finest examples of classical Chinese garden design. The garden is known for its elegant pavilions, peaceful courtyards, winding corridors, and stunning rock formations. Every corner offers a new scenic view, perfectly blending nature and architecture. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it reflects the refined culture and artistic traditions of ancient China. This visit offers a calm and memorable glimpse into China’s timeless beauty.

The next stop in Suzhou is the Pearl Museum, where visitors can explore the history and artistry of China’s pearl craftsmanship. Guests will learn about the process of pearl cultivation, selection, and refinement passed down through generations. The museum showcases a stunning collection of pearls and jewelry, revealing the skill and precision behind each piece. This visit offers a fascinating insight into a traditional craft deeply connected to Suzhou’s cultural heritage and artistic legacy.

Day 8: Suzhou to Hangzhou / West Lake

Moving from Suzhou to Hangzhou, two cities known for their beauty and cultural heritage. Our main highlight in Hangzhou will be the famous West Lake, a legendary landmark celebrated for its picturesque scenery, tranquil waters, and historic charm. As we explore the lake, you’ll have time to enjoy its scenic bridges, peaceful gardens, and iconic viewpoints that have inspired poets and artists for centuries.

In addition to West Lake, we will also experience Hangzhou’s rich silk culture, which has played a major role in the city’s history for over a thousand years. You will learn about the traditional process of silk production—from silkworm cultivation to weaving and embroidery—and discover why Hangzhou became one of China’s most important centers for silk craftsmanship.

Day 9: Shanghai / The Bund, Longjing Tea Plantation

Our next stop is Shanghai, one of China’s busiest financial and commercial centers. We will take a walk along The Bund, a famous riverside promenade lined with historic colonial-era buildings. It is one of Shanghai’s most iconic landmarks, where you can admire the Huangpu River and feel the striking contrast between history and modernity.

Next, we will visit the Longjing Tea Plantation, located in the scenic hills outside Shanghai. Longjing, also known as Dragon Well tea, is one of China’s most famous and prized teas. At the plantation, you will learn about the traditional tea-growing process, from picking the leaves to roasting and tasting the finished brew. The lush tea terraces and peaceful surroundings offer a calm escape from the city, while giving you a deeper appreciation for China’s tea culture.

Day 10: Shanghai / World-Class Shanghai Museum, City God Temple (Chenghuangmiao)

The next day in Shanghai will begin with a visit to the World-Class Shanghai Museum. Located in the heart of the city, the museum is renowned for its extensive collection of Chinese art and cultural relics. Visitors can explore ancient ceramics, jade carvings, calligraphy, paintings, and more, gaining a deep insight into China’s rich history. This is a must-see destination for anyone interested in Chinese culture and heritage.

After the museum, we will head to Chenghuangmiao (City God Temple), one of Shanghai’s most famous cultural landmarks. This historic temple complex is surrounded by traditional streets and bustling markets, offering a glimpse into local life and heritage. You can explore the ornate architecture, shop for souvenirs, and taste classic Shanghai snacks in the lively surrounding area.

Day 11: Shanghai to San Francisco