Enter the Forbidden City
Walk through the world’s largest palace complex, home to 24 emperors of the Ming and Qing dynasties for nearly 500 years.
10 Days · 9 Nights · Group tour
Ancient Capitals of
China Journey
Beijing · Xi’an · Nanjing · Suzhou
At a glance
A 10-day journey through
China’s four great ancient capitals
This 10-day tour traces the imperial and cultural heart of China through four of its most historically significant cities: Beijing, Xi’an, Nanjing, and Suzhou. From the Forbidden City in Beijing and the Terracotta Warriors in Xi’an to the Ming Dynasty walls of Nanjing and the classical gardens of Suzhou, each city reveals a different chapter in China’s rich 5,000-year civilization. This is a journey for travelers who want to connect deeply with China’s past.
Travelers will explore UNESCO World Heritage sites including the Forbidden City, the Great Wall, the Terracotta Warriors, the Ming Xiaoling Mausoleum, and the Classical Gardens of Suzhou. With high-speed train connections, 4-star hotels, expert historical commentary from local guides, and a balanced pace, this tour is perfect for history enthusiasts and cultural explorers.
Duration10 Days / 9 Nights
Destinations4 cities
StyleGroup tour
Hotels4-star throughout
What makes this journey
Tour
highlights
Witness the Terracotta Army
Stand before thousands of life-sized warriors, each with unique facial features, guarding the tomb of Qin Shi Huang for over 2,000 years.
Walk Nanjing’s Ancient Walls
Explore one of the world’s longest city walls and visit the solemn Ming Xiaoling Mausoleum set amid forested hills.
Lose Yourself in Suzhou’s Gardens
Discover the Humble Administrator’s Garden, a UNESCO masterpiece of classical Chinese garden design with pavilions, ponds, and rockeries.
Stand on the Great Wall
Walk the ancient battlements of the Badaling Great Wall and gaze across the mountains that once defined the edge of the empire.
Travel Through Centuries by Rail
Zip between these ancient cities on China’s high-speed trains, connecting millennia of history in comfort and style.
Day by day
The
itinerary
- Day 1
Arrival in Beijing
Your guide will meet you at Beijing Capital International Airport. Transfer to your hotel for check-in and rest after your journey.
- Day 2
Imperial Beijing
Visit the Temple of Heaven, Tiananmen Square, and the Forbidden City. End the day with a walk along Wangfujing Street.
- Day 3
The Great Wall
Travel to the Badaling Great Wall and walk along ancient ramparts with sweeping mountain views. Afternoon visit to Olympic Park to see the Bird’s Nest and Water Cube.
- Day 4
High-speed Train to Xi’an
Board a high-speed train to Xi’an. Upon arrival, visit the ancient Xi’an City Wall — one of the best-preserved city fortifications in China. Evening walk through the Muslim Quarter.
- Day 5
Terracotta Warriors & Xi’an Treasures
Morning visit to the Terracotta Warriors. Afternoon explore the Bell Tower, Drum Tower, and the Grand Tang Dynasty Ever Bright City.
- Day 6
High-speed Train to Nanjing
Take a high-speed train to Nanjing, the ‘Southern Capital’ and one of China’s four great ancient capitals. Afternoon visit to the Confucius Temple area and Qinhuai River.
- Day 7
Nanjing’s Ming Dynasty Heritage
Visit the Ming Xiaoling Mausoleum, the final resting place of the first Ming emperor, and walk the ancient Nanjing City Wall. Afternoon visit the Nanjing Museum to see priceless imperial artifacts.
- Day 8
Train to Suzhou & Classical Gardens
Short high-speed train to Suzhou. Visit the Humble Administrator’s Garden, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of China’s finest classical gardens. Afternoon stroll along Pingjiang Road, a historic canal-side street.
- Day 9
Suzhou Silk & Tiger Hill
Visit a silk factory to learn about Suzhou’s 4,000-year silk heritage. Then explore Tiger Hill, one of Suzhou’s most famous landmarks with its leaning pagoda. Afternoon high-speed train to Shanghai.
- Day 10
Departure from Shanghai
After breakfast, transfer to Pudong International Airport for your departure flight.
The fine print, made simple
Cost &
what’s included
What’s included
- Guided sightseeing throughout
- 4-star hotel accommodation (9 nights)
- High-speed train journeys between all cities
- Admission tickets to all listed sites
- Meals — Breakfast (9), Lunch (6), Dinner (5)
- Airport pickup on arrival
Good to know
- This special promotion is exclusively for foreign nationals.
- The company reserves the right to adjust the itinerary and hotels as deemed necessary based on actual circumstances.
Before you go
Frequently asked
questions
What makes these cities ‘ancient capitals’?
Beijing, Xi’an, and Nanjing all served as national capitals during major dynasties. Suzhou, while not a national capital, was the cultural and economic heart of the Jiangnan region for centuries.
Is this tour suitable for history enthusiasts?
Absolutely! Our guides provide rich historical context at every site, and the itinerary is designed to tell the story of China’s civilization from the Qin Dynasty through the Ming and Qing eras.
What meals are included?
The tour includes Breakfast (9), Lunch (6), and Dinner (5). We select restaurants serving local specialties in each city.
What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 6 days in advance of the experience for a full refund.
How much walking is involved?
Moderate walking at historical sites. Comfortable shoes are recommended. Most sites have rest areas and the pace is relaxed.
When will I receive confirmation?
Confirmation will be received within 48 hours of booking, subject to availability.
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unforgettable.
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