Explore Cultural Treasures in 3-Day: Shanghai to Beijing Tour of Landmarks and Local Life

Summary

Day1 Shanghai-Beijing by flight: Summer Palace, Beijing Hutongs
Day2 Beijing: Tiananmen Square, Forbidden City, Temple of Heaven
Day3 Beijing: Mutianyu Great Wall, Bird’s Nest, Water Cube

Day 1 Shanghai-Beijing by Flight

After your flight from Shanghai touches down in Beijing, you’ll be warmly welcomed by your professional guide at the airport arrivals hall, easily recognizable with a "Your Way Holiday" sign in hand. From that moment on, your comfort is their priority—they’ll assist with your luggage and escort you to a private vehicle waiting just outside. As you make your way to the hotel, your guide will offer thoughtful introductions to Beijing’s history, share practical travel tips, and tailor suggestions based on your interests. With their attentive care and deep local knowledge, your journey in Beijing begins not just smoothly, but with insight, ease, and a personal touch.

Then, you'll wander through the Summer Palace, your knowledgeable guide will bring this imperial masterpiece to life with thoughtful commentary and historical depth. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Summer Palace is more than just China’s best-preserved royal garden—it’s a symbol of traditional Chinese aesthetics, political power, and cultural philosophy. From the richly painted Long Corridor to the towering presence of the Tower of Buddhist Incense and the elegant span of the Seventeen-Arch Bridge, every structure reflects the artistry and vision of a bygone era. Your guide will explain how the palace served not only as a retreat for Qing emperors, but also as a reflection of imperial authority and harmony with nature. Through their expert storytelling, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation of how the Summer Palace has shaped Chinese garden design, influenced cultural identity, and remained a lasting testament to China’s dynastic heritage.

Next, going through Beijing’s historic hutongs with your expert guide offers a rare glimpse into the city’s traditional heart. These narrow alleyways, lined with centuries-old courtyard homes known as siheyuan, reflect the architectural charm and social fabric of old Beijing. As you stroll through the maze-like lanes, your guide will share stories of daily life, local customs, and the evolution of these neighborhoods through dynastic changes, revolutions, and modern development. You’ll stop at iconic spots such as the Drum and Bell Towers, once used to keep time for the entire city, and visit preserved courtyards that reveal how generations of families lived together. With deep knowledge and cultural context, your guide will help you see the hutongs not just as streets, but as living history—where the past lingers in every brick, doorway, and whispered story.

As the day winds down, your guide will escort you back to your hotel, ensuring a smooth and comfortable return. With today’s highlights still vivid in your mind, you’ll feel both enriched and inspired by all you’ve experienced. Thanks to the thoughtful care and insights provided by your guide, your journey has begun with ease and depth. Take this evening to relax and recharge—there are many more remarkable moments waiting just around the corner.

Day 2 Beijing

After breakfast, your journey begins at Tiananmen Square, the symbolic heart of Beijing and a site that echoes with the weight of China’s modern history. Guided by a seasoned expert, you’ll step into the world’s largest public square, where every monument tells a deeper story. As you take in the sweeping views, your guide will bring meaning to each landmark—the solemn Monument to the People’s Heroes standing at the center, the imposing Great Hall of the People where national policies are shaped, and the grand National Museum that preserves the country’s rich cultural heritage. Approaching the majestic Tiananmen Gate, with its striking red walls and golden roof, you'll learn how emperors once addressed their empire from this very spot and how Chairman Mao later stood here to proclaim the founding of the People’s Republic in 1949. With rich historical context, architectural insight, and engaging storytelling, your guide transforms the square from a vast space into a living narrative of China’s political legacy, national pride, and enduring transformation—marking a powerful and meaningful start to your day.

Next,you'll step through the grand Meridian Gate into the Forbidden City, your expert guide will immerse you in the breathtaking world of China’s imperial past. This sprawling palace complex—the largest and most complete ancient wooden structure on Earth—is a masterpiece of traditional Chinese architecture, where vibrant red walls and sweeping golden roofs rise in perfect harmony, reflecting centuries of cultural symbolism and imperial authority.  Your guide will unveil the secrets behind each majestic hall, from the resplendent Hall of Supreme Harmony, where emperors held court and declared edicts, to the serene Imperial Garden, a hidden oasis of tranquility.  More than a royal residence, the Forbidden City stands as a powerful emblem of China’s political history and cultural identity, shaping artistic traditions and governance for centuries. Through your guide’s professional insights, this iconic landmark transforms from a mere visit into a vivid journey through the soul of China’s dynastic heritage.

For lunch, immerse yourself in the rich flavors of Beijing’s culinary tradition with a feast featuring the city’s legendary Peking Duck and the beloved local treat, Rolling Donkey. Savor the perfectly roasted duck—its crispy, golden skin and tender meat served alongside delicate pancakes, fresh scallions, and fragrant hoisin sauce—a true highlight of Beijing’s dining culture. Complementing this savory delight, enjoy Rolling Donkey, a popular sweet snack made from soft glutinous rice wrapped around luscious fillings, offering a perfect balance of texture and flavor. Your knowledgeable guide will enrich your meal with fascinating stories about these iconic dishes, their deep roots in Beijing’s food heritage, and their role in local dining customs. This lunch promises not only a delicious experience but also a meaningful taste of the city’s vibrant gastronomic identity.

In the afternoon , your expert guide will lead you through the majestic Temple of Heaven, one of Beijing’s most breathtaking and spiritually significant landmarks.  This imperial complex, a stunning example of Ming Dynasty architecture and cosmic symbolism, was where emperors once gathered to perform sacred rituals praying for bountiful harvests and harmony between heaven and earth—ceremonies crucial to the empire’s well-being.  Your guide will draw your attention to iconic features like the magnificent Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests, with its soaring, nail-free triple-gabled roof, and the remarkable Echo Wall, famed for its unique acoustic effects.  As you wander through the harmonious circular and square courtyards, your guide will explain how the temple’s precise design reflects ancient Chinese cosmology, embodying the eternal connection between the celestial and the terrestrial.  With vivid storytelling and deep cultural insight, your guide transforms this afternoon visit into an inspiring journey through China’s rich imperial heritage and spiritual traditions.

As evening falls, your guide will accompany you back to your hotel, making sure your return is effortless and comfortable. The memories of today’s discoveries will linger, leaving you feeling fulfilled and inspired by everything you've seen and learned. With your guide’s attentive support and insightful explanations, your adventure has started on a thoughtful and enriching note. Now, take the night to unwind and rejuvenate—tomorrow holds even more exciting experiences just waiting to be explored.

Day 3 Beijing

After breakfast, set out on an unforgettable journey to the stunning Mutianyu section of the Great Wall, a true masterpiece of ancient Chinese engineering and a lasting symbol of resilience. As you climb the well-preserved stone ramparts, your expert guide will bring the Wall's fascinating history to life—from its origins in the Qin dynasty to its vital role in defending the empire. Surrounded by rolling hills and lush forests, you'll enjoy breathtaking panoramic views that showcase China's natural beauty and rich heritage. The watchtowers, spaced strategically along the winding path, stand as silent witnesses to centuries of military strategy and determination. For those who prefer a more leisurely experience, an optional cable car ride is available, offering a convenient and scenic way to reach the Wall's summit without the climb. With your guide's vivid storytelling, you'll gain a deeper appreciation for how the Great Wall represents not only a formidable fortress but also the enduring spirit and unity of the Chinese people. Whether you choose to hike the rugged terrain or simply soak in the spectacular scenery from the cable car, your morning at Mutianyu promises an inspiring and unforgettable experience.

Enjoy a culinary adventure that showcases the rich and diverse flavors of Beijing's vibrant food culture during your lunch break. Your expert guide, a passionate local foodie, will take you to carefully selected eateries and hidden spots cherished by residents. Delight in authentic Beijing specialties such as the savory Shuan Yang Rou and the sweet, crisp Tanghulu. As you explore lively food markets and quaint alleyways, savor the complex tastes that define Chinese cuisine. With your guide's deep knowledge and recommendations, you'll gain fascinating insights into the history and preparation of each dish, elevating your dining experience. Whether you're a seasoned foodie or simply craving a delicious meal, this personalized gastronomic journey will be one of the highlights of your Beijing adventure.

After lunch, make a brief but memorable stop at the Bird’s Nest and Water Cube—two iconic landmarks from the 2008 Beijing Olympics that showcase China’s modern architectural vision. As you stroll through the Olympic Green, your guide will offer a short, engaging introduction to these striking structures. The Bird’s Nest, with its dramatic steel frame, and the Water Cube, with its glowing, bubble-like façade, both make for fantastic photo opportunities. Take a few moments to enjoy the open space, snap some final pictures, and reflect on the fusion of tradition and innovation that defines today’s Beijing.

As our unforgettable three-day tour draws to a close, your dedicated guide and driver will ensure a seamless and comfortable transfer to either the airport or train station, according to your travel plans. Throughout your journey, your guide’s expert knowledge and attentive care have brought Beijing’s rich history and vibrant culture vividly to life, making every moment truly memorable. Their thoughtful answers to your questions and smooth coordination have made exploring effortless and deeply engaging. As you prepare to continue your travels, your guide extends warm wishes for a safe journey, hoping that the remarkable experiences of these days will stay with you long after you depart.

Price Per Person in US Dollars