10-Day Beyond the Golden Triangle with Shanxi

Explore China's Ancient Capitals

Embark on an unforgettable journey through China's most iconic destinations. This private tour not only explores the Golden Triangle of Beijing, Xi'an, and Shanghai, but also visits the captivating ancient city of Pingyao, which includes many locations and set pieces featured in the 3A game of Black Myth: Wukong.

In Beijing and Xi'an, delve into the rich history and grandeur of imperial dynasties. Then, wander through Pingyao's well-preserved Ming and Qing Dynasty architecture and oriental color sculptures. Immerse yourself in its authentic charm, characterized by red lanterns, elegant courtyards, and towering gray brick walls.

This 10-day tour offers a perfect combination of imperial majesty and timeless tradition. And we are more than happy to customize your ideal tour to your needs.

Beijing-Pingyao-Xi'an-Shanghai Tour Map

Beijing Pingyao Xi'an Shanghai tour map

Suggested 10-Day Itinerary

Day Highlights
1-3
Beijing
Forbidden City, Great Wall, Summer Palace, Temple of Heaven
4-6
Pingyao
Pingyao Ancient City, Shuanglin Temple, Wang's Family Compound
7-8
Xi'an
Terracotta Warriors, Ancient City Walls, Muslim Quarter, Big Goose Pagoda
9-10
Shanghai
The Bund, Yuyuan Garden, Shanghai Tower

Tour 'Wow' Points

Marvel at the stunning painted sculptures in the real world of 'Black Myth: Wukong'.

The Shuanglin Temple houses over 2,000 beautifully preserved painted sculptures dating from the 12th to the 19th centuries.

Shuanglin Temple
Shuanglin Temple

Glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of a wealthy merchant family during the Qing Dynasty.

The Wang's Family Compound is a remarkable example of a traditional Chinese courtyard house complex located within Pingyao Ancient City.

Wang's family compound
Wang's family compound

Uncover the Forbidden City's secrets with our expert guide.

Explore the grand imperial halls and gardens, and learn about the stories of some famous royal members.

Forbidden City
Forbidden City

Explore a less-crowded area of the Great Wall with scenic cable car rides and hiking.

The Mutianyu section of the Great Wall provides breathtaking vistas of the surrounding valleys and countryside.

Mutianyu Great Wall
Mutianyu Great Wall

Immerse yourself in hutong life by visiting a local family's home.

Discover the heart of traditional Beijing on the immersive hutong tour. Optional cultural activities in a local family's house enhance your tour experience.

Beijing Hutong
Beijing Hutong

Enjoy your culinary adventure on the vibrant food street.

Your tour guide will recommend some must-try dishes in Muslim Quarter like Rou Jia Mo, Yangrou Paomo, and Biang Biang Noodle... It's a foodies' paradise!

Xi'an Muslim Quarter
Xi'an Muslim Quarter

Step back in time and experience the grandeur of ancient China

Witness the awe-inspiring army of life-sized terracotta warriors, a testament to the ancient Chinese empire's power and sophistication. Try your hand at crafting a tiny terracotta soldier replica to take home as a memento.

terracotta warriors
terracotta warriors

Witness Shanghai's transformation from a fishing village to a global metropolis.

Ascend to new heights in Shanghai! And discover the architectural gems of the Bund.

The Bund of Shanghai
the Bund in Shanghai

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Suggested Itinerary

Here is a suggested itinerary. We are happy to customize a tour according to your interests and schedule.

Day 1 Beijing | Airport Transfer

Your local tour guide, driver and private car will be waiting for you upon arrival in Beijing. Your guide will assist you with your luggage at the airport and take you to your hotel. The rest of time is yours to explore nearby.

Day 2 Beijing | Delve into the Past

Breakfast & Lunch & Dinner

Our personalized tour takes you to 12 carefully selected locations within the Forbidden City. Your knowledgeable guide will not only provide insights into the city's architecture, history, feng shui, and art, but will also share the stories of the most industrious emperors.

Then we'll wander through a labyrinth of historic alleyways, named Hutong in Chinese, home to charming courtyard houses that are rapidly disappearing. You will visit a local people's house, ascend the Bell Tower for panoramic views, and learn about hutong preservation efforts.

*(Optional) A complimentary 40-minute Chinese cultural activity to enhance your tour:

  • Calligraphy: Learn the art of Chinese brush painting
  • Paper Cutting: Discover the intricate art of paper cutting

In the evening, savor the exquisite flavors of Peking duck, renowned for its crispy skin and juicy meat. The perfect balance of sweet bean sauce, hoisin sauce, and scallions will leave you wanting more.

Day 3 Beijing | Explore the Wonder of the World

Breakfast & Lunch

Our first visit today is to the Temple of Heaven, which is a stunning Taoist complex where emperors once sought blessings for bountiful harvests. Now it is a vibrant hub for locals to do morning rituals of singing, exercising, and practicing tai chi.

Located about 1.5 hours from Beijing, the Mutianyu Great Wall features a fully restored 2.5-kilometer section dating back to 1986. To save time, we've arranged a round-trip cable car ride to the 14th watchtower, allowing you to focus on exploring the most scenic part of the Wall.

Day 4 Beijing to Pingyao | The Beauty of Imperial Garden

Breakfast & Lunch

As your high speed train to Pingyao departs in the afternoon, you still have a half day to explore the Summer Palace, a sprawling imperial park known for its stunning gardens and lakes. Enjoy a leisurely 2-km walk through this picturesque park, which was originally the Imperial Court's summer retreat.

After lunch, your tour guide will transfer you to the railway station to catch a high speed train to Pingyao within 3.5 hours.

Day 5 Pingyao | Shanxi's Ancient Charm

Breakfast & Lunch

As one of China's four best-preserved ancient cities, Pingyao boasts a history spanning nearly 3,000 years. Stroll along its imposing city walls, constructed with rammed earth and brick. Explore the Rishengchang Draft Bank, one of China's earliest banks, established in 1823. Gain insights into Pingyao's rich history and its role as a financial center.

Join a unique culinary experience and learn to prepare traditional Shanxi noodles alongside local experts. Savor the fruits of your labor and other delicious local dishes.

Day 6 Pingyao to Xi'an | The Exquisite Buddhist Sculptures

Breakfast & Lunch

Shuanglin Temple has become a popular spot for domestic and international travelers because of the "Black Myth: Wukong". Over 2,000 painted clay sculptures are considered some of the finest examples, known for their vibrant colors, lifelike forms, and intricate details.

Your guide and driver escort you to the station to take the high speed train to Xi'an in the late afternoon and arrive at Xi'an at about 7:30 pm.

Day 7 Xi'an | Terracotta Warriors and Foodie Adventure

Breakfast & Lunch

Immerse yourself in the history of China's first emperor with a visit to the Terracotta Army. Marvel at the intricate details of these life-size terracotta soldiers, archers, and horses, buried for over 2,000 years.

Our expert guide will share fascinating insights and lead you to a local workshop where you can witness firsthand the traditional methods of terracotta warrior creation. Try your hand at making a miniature warrior with the guidance of a skilled craftsman.

Embark on a culinary adventure through the Muslim Quarter, where you'll discover a variety of local dishes. Savor iconic Xi'an dishes like Rou Jia Mo ( Chinese Hamburgers), biangbiang noodles, steamed cold noodles, and pita bread soaked in lamb soup. You will love them!

Day 8 Xi'an to Shanghai | The Magnificent Buddhist Pagoda

Breakfast & Lunch

Before heading to Shanghai, you will ascend the Big Goose Pagoda, a magnificent brick structure, in the morning. You will have the chance to capture stunning photos as you admire the cityscape from above.

A leisurely bike ride along the ancient city wall is quite amazing. Enjoy the panoramic views and soak in the city's historic charm.

A hassle-free transfer to the airport for your 2-hour flight from Xi'an to Shanghai in the afternoon.

Day 9 Shanghai | A Skyline Story

Breakfast & Lunch

Ascend to new heights in Shanghai! Experience the thrill of soaring above the city's iconic skyscrapers, such as the Shanghai Tower. Enjoy a leisurely coffee break before embarking on a scenic cruise along the Huangpu River.

Discover the architectural gems of the Bund, a historic waterfront district that reflects Shanghai's golden age. Venture into hidden alleys, savor local delicacies at a Michelin-starred restaurant (or learn the art of takeout) and witness the city's transformation from its historic core to the modern metropolis of Pudong.

The Yu Garden, another landmark in Shanghai, is a beautiful classic Chinese garden with impressive rockery. It is composed of large natural stones arranged in a way that creates a sense of harmony and balance.

Day 10 Shanghai Departure

Breakfast

You have some free time to enjoy on your own before you leave this metropolis city. Your guide, a private car and a driver will take you to the airport in good time to get on your flight home.

Hotel Selection

—the Icing on the Cake

Boutique hotels are recommended to enrich your travel experience.

Hotel in Pingyao
Hotel in Shanghai

Tour Price

FromUSD 2,299p/p
Based on a private tour including 4-star hotels for 2 people. Price varies depending on program, travel date, number of people and chosen hotel

Price includes:

  • Private air-conditioned business car with big windows and ample space
  • English speaking local guide
  • Activities, hotels, and meals listed in the itinerary
  • 24/7 helpline for while you are traveling

Tour Code: cht-128

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