Physical Address
304 North Cardinal St.
Dorchester Center, MA 02124
Setting out on a journey through China’s storied past, this 7-day tour offers a well-rounded glimpse of three of the country’s most famed ancient capitals: Beijing, Luoyang, and Xi’an. Designed for those eager to explore history, culture, and iconic sights without the hassle of transit logistics, it combines luxurious high-speed trains, expert-guided tours, and comfortable accommodations. From the imposing Great Wall to the awe-inspiring Terracotta Warriors, this trip promises both awe and insight.
What we love about this experience? First, the seamless integration of high-speed rail means you spend less time traveling and more time marveling at historical sites. Second, the guides are praised for their knowledge and fluency, making even complex historical stories accessible and engaging. One notable point? The tour is quite comprehensive, which means it could be a bit fast-paced for those wanting a more relaxed pace. Still, if you’re a history buff or cultural explorer, this itinerary hits many of China’s most significant highlights.
This tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy a well-organized itinerary, value insider knowledge, and are prepared for a moderate physical activity level—walking around vast sites, often on uneven surfaces. If you’re after a hassle-free, in-depth introduction to China’s ancient heartlands, this tour could be just what you’re looking for.
Key Points
- Fast and efficient travel with high-speed trains connecting Beijing, Luoyang, and Xi’an
- Expert guides with fluent English who enrich every site with stories and context
- Comprehensive itinerary covering iconic sights like the Great Wall, Forbidden City, Longmen Grottoes, and Terracotta Warriors
- Hassle-free logistics, including accommodations, tickets, and transfers
- Suitable for those with moderate physical fitness comfortable walking and exploring
- The tour offers great value considering the included transportation, guided tours, and entrance fees
An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary and What to Expect
Day 1: Arriving in Beijing
Your adventure begins with a private pickup at Beijing airport or train station, whisking you off to a centrally located hotel. This first day is relaxed, giving you time to acclimate and perhaps plan your first evening in China’s bustling capital. No sightseeing is scheduled, so you can enjoy your own pace or simply rest after your journey.
Day 2: Beijing’s Imperial and Historic Highlights
The day kicks off with a visit to the Dingling Underground Palace, part of the Ming Tombs. This site is among the three largest mausoleums, sharing the burial site of Emperor Zhu Yijun. The intricate carvings and underground chambers give fascinating insights into Ming Dynasty funerary art. Expect about two hours here, with entrance included.
Next, you’ll head to the Mutianyu Great Wall, famed for its stunning vistas and less crowded slopes. The section’s natural beauty makes it a favorite among visitors. Cable cars are optional but available, allowing for a comfortable ascent and descent—perfect if walking uphill isn’t your thing. After exploring, you return to your hotel, having experienced one of the most iconic sights on earth.
Day 3: Beijing’s Cultural Heart
A morning visit to Tiananmen Square introduces you to China’s political history—it’s the world’s largest public square and site of significant events since 1949. Then, a walk through the Forbidden City reveals imperial architecture and centuries of stories, with a guide bringing history alive. The Forbidden City is among the top five palaces globally, and you’ll spend about two hours exploring its corridors and halls.
Post-lunch, you’ll visit the Traditional Chinese Medicine Market—an engaging spot to learn about ancient health practices and perhaps pick up some souvenirs. The day concludes with a visit to the Temple of Heaven, where emperors once prayed for good harvests. It’s a peaceful, beautiful site, with surrounding structures used for ceremonial purposes.
Finally, the Summer Palace awaits—a sprawling complex of gardens, lakes, and pavilions that exudes imperial elegance. Expect about two hours here to soak in the scenic beauty and historical significance.
Day 4: High-Speed Journey to Luoyang
After breakfast, you’ll leave Beijing via a high-speed train (G671, about 6 hours), a comfortable and swift way to traverse China’s vast landscapes. The train’s second-class seats provide ample legroom and Wi-Fi (if available), making the journey enjoyable.
Upon arrival in Luoyang, your local guide and driver will meet you at the station, ready to introduce you to the city. You’ll enjoy a light lunch before heading to the Longmen Grottoes—a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its thousands of stone statues and carvings along the Yi River. Expect about two hours exploring this impressive collection of Buddhist art, a highlight for art and history lovers alike.
Later, you’ll stroll along Luoyang Old Street, a charming area packed with stalls selling local crafts and snacks, providing a taste of everyday life and culture.
Day 5: Shaolin Temple and the Train to Xi’an
The focus of this day is Shaolin Temple, the birthplace of Chinese Zen Buddhism and martial arts. The visit includes watching the famous Kung Fu show, a highlight that showcases athleticism and tradition. Expect about five hours at the site, including travel time, so be ready for a physically active day.
Post-lunch, the journey continues with a high-speed train to Xi’an (around 2.5 hours). Once there, your driver will transfer you to your hotel, giving you some downtime before the next day’s explorations.
Day 6: Xi’an’s Ancient Marvels
The day begins with a visit to the Terracotta Warriors Museum, often called the eighth wonder of the world. The thousands of life-sized soldiers, horses, and generals are staggeringly realistic—an unforgettable sight. You’ll spend roughly two and a half hours here, absorbing the details and stories behind this massive archaeological find.
In the afternoon, you’ll walk along the Ancient City Wall, which is remarkably well-preserved and offers panoramic views of the city. If you’re feeling adventurous, biking on the wall is an option (payment on spot). The city wall encapsulates centuries of military history and urban planning.
Day 7: Concluding in Xi’an
Your final day features visits to the Small Wild Goose Pagoda—a well-preserved example of Tang Dynasty architecture. Then, explore the Xian Museum to see relics from various periods of Chinese history. The day culminates at the iconic Big Wild Goose Pagoda, where monks once preserved Buddhist scriptures brought from India.
Finally, stroll through the Muslim Quarter—a lively area full of street food, crafts, and local flavor—before heading to the airport or train station for your onward trip.
Practicalities and Considerations
The cost of $1,522 per person covers many essentials—accommodations, train tickets, guided tours, entrance fees, and transportation. This offers excellent value for a comprehensive, guided experience that saves you the hassle of planning every detail yourself.
The tour is designed for travelers with moderate physical fitness, as it involves walking, stairs, and some uneven surfaces at sites. The itinerary is quite full, with each day packed with highlights, which is perfect for those eager to see as much as possible. However, some might find the pace brisk, especially on the busy days exploring sites like the Great Wall and Shaolin Temple.
The inclusion of high-speed trains is a major advantage, cutting down travel time and providing a comfortable, modern way to traverse China’s vast geography. The group size is not specified explicitly but being a private tour suggests a more personalized experience, with guides dedicated solely to your party.
The hotel accommodations are rated at 3-4 stars, with breakfast included, offering a good balance of comfort and value. If a private room is desired, a supplement applies.
Authentic Insights from Past Travelers
One reviewer highlighted the expertise of guides, praising how they “enrich every site with stories and context.” They also appreciated the smooth logistics, noting that the tour was well-organized and enjoyable, especially for seniors. The mention of delightful guides and stunning views at key sites suggest that the experience delivers both educational richness and visual pleasure.
While there was a note about the pace being slightly fast for some, overall feedback was very positive, emphasizing the value of having everything arranged and the chance to see China’s most famous ancient sites in one trip.
The Sum Up
For travelers seeking a comprehensive, hassle-free introduction to China’s ancient capitals, this 7-day high-speed train tour offers an excellent mix of history, culture, and convenience. The well-organized schedule ensures you hit all the major highlights, from Beijing’s imperial grandeur to Luoyang’s Buddhist treasures and Xi’an’s legendary Terracotta Army.
The inclusion of expert guides makes a significant difference, bringing stories and context that elevate the experience beyond mere sightseeing. Plus, the modern high-speed trains keep travel comfortable and efficient, maximizing your time at each destination.
This tour is ideal for history enthusiasts, culture seekers, and travelers who want to explore China’s core ancient sites without the stress of planning every detail. It offers solid value, memorable sights, and a taste of China’s glorious past—perfect for those eager to walk in the footsteps of emperors and warriors.
FAQ
Do I need a visa to join this tour?
The tour details do not specify visa requirements, but as it includes international travel into China, travelers should ensure they have the appropriate visas before booking.
Is the tour suitable for children?
Children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult, and the tour involves walking and site visits that may require moderate physical effort, so consider your child’s comfort and stamina.
Are airport pickups included?
Yes, pickup is offered, and you will be contacted with specific details at least one day before your tour begins.
What is included in the price?
The price covers accommodations, train tickets, guided tours, entrance fees, and one bottle of water per person per day. Lunch and dinner are not included.
Can I customize the tour?
This is a private tour, so customization may be possible when booking—such as dietary preferences or specific site interests—by leaving a note during booking.
What should I wear on the tour days?
Comfortable shoes are recommended, as you’ll be walking extensively across large sites. Dress appropriately for weather conditions—layers for hot or cool days.
How long are the train journeys?
The Beijing-Luoyang segment takes about 6 hours, while Luoyang-Xian is approximately 2.5 hours. These are comfortable rides with second-class seating.
What if I want to extend my stay?
Extensions can often be arranged through your booking agent or tour operator, but specific options are not detailed here. Contact the provider for personalized arrangements.
This 7-day China tour offers a fantastic way to see the country’s most iconic ancient sites with ease, guided by knowledgeable experts, and traveling comfortably by fast rail. It strikes a good balance between structure and authenticity, making it a memorable adventure into China’s imperial past.
