From Shanghai: 2-Day Private Tour to Beijing by Round-way Bullet Train

Traveling from Shanghai to Beijing in just two days is no small feat, but thanks to this well-planned private tour, it’s entirely achievable — and memorable. This experience offers a seamless blend of modern high-speed rail travel and immersive sightseeing, tailored for those eager to tick off China’s most famous sites without sacrificing comfort or authentic encounters.

What we particularly appreciate about this tour is the luxury of private transportation, both in Beijing and for the train journey, ensuring a smooth, personalized experience from start to finish. Plus, visiting key attractions like the Great Wall at Mutianyu, the Forbidden City, and the Summer Palace with knowledgeable guides makes every moment more insightful and engaging.

However, a potential consideration is the tight schedule—two days really fly by, and for those wanting a more leisurely exploration, this might feel a bit rushed. Still, for travelers who value efficiency and a curated experience, this tour hits the sweet spot.

This experience suits busy travelers, first-time visitors eager for a rundown, or those with limited time but a strong desire to see China’s top sights. If you’re looking for a hassle-free, all-inclusive trip with a touch of luxury, this package will likely appeal.

Key Points

• Enjoy round-trip first-class bullet train travel between Shanghai and Beijing, saving time and adding comfort.
• Visit top landmarks including the Mutianyu Great Wall, Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square, and Summer Palace.
• Experience local cuisine with included breakfast, lunch, and dinner, including famous Peking Duck.
• Benefit from private transfers and guides, ensuring tailored insights and smooth logistics.
• The tour is private, with only your group participating, allowing for a more personalized experience.
• Cost per person is approximately $1,226, offering a comprehensive package that covers transportation, entrance fees, and accommodations.

Day 1: From Shanghai to the Great Wall

The adventure begins early with a 7 am pickup in Shanghai, ensuring you beat the crowds and make the most of your day. Your transfer to Shanghai Hongqiao Railway Station sets the stage for a five-hour first-class bullet train ride. Traveling at speeds over 300 km/h (186 mph), you’ll marvel at how quickly modern transport can whisk you from China’s economic hub to its historic capital.

The train journey is a highlight in itself: spacious, comfortable, and equipped with modern amenities. It’s an efficient way to cover the approximately 1,300 km between the two cities. Many travelers appreciate the speed and convenience of the bullet train, which is a far cry from traditional long-distance journeys.

Upon arriving in Beijing, you’ll head straight to the Mutianyu Great Wall, a less crowded but equally breathtaking section built over 600 years ago. The drive takes about two hours, crossing scenic landscapes and hinting at the grandeur to come.

Mutianyu is renowned for its well-preserved structures and stunning mountain backdrop. The cable car ride up the Wall offers fantastic views, and the walk along the ramparts provides ample opportunity for photos and soaking in the scenery. For those who prefer to save their energy, a toboggan slide is sometimes available, adding a fun twist to the ascent.

After exploring, you’re transferred to your hotel in Beijing, where you can unwind after a packed day.

Day 2: Beijing’s Historic and Cultural Marvels

The second day starts with a visit to Tiananmen Square, the largest city square in the world. It’s a space filled with history, politics, and symbolism. With plenty of time allotted, you’ll see key sights like the Chairman Mao Mausoleum and get a sense of the scale of Chinese history.

Next, your guide will take you into the Forbidden City, the imperial palace that served as the home of Ming and Qing emperors. As the largest ancient palace complex, it’s a labyrinth of courtyards, halls, and relics. Your guide’s insights will turn the complex architecture and artifacts into stories of power, art, and tradition. Expect about three hours of exploration, which is sufficient to get a solid overview without feeling rushed.

A highlight of the day is the Summer Palace, a sprawling royal retreat featuring the Kunming Lake, Longevity Hill, and the iconic Marble Boat. The scenery here is truly spectacular—perfect for photos—and offers a tranquil contrast to the bustling city center.

After the sightseeing, you’ll be transferred to the train station for your return journey to Shanghai via the same comfortable, first-class bullet train. The journey back offers a chance to reflect on the sights and enjoy the scenic views from your window.

The Return and Final Transfer

The five-hour train ride back to Shanghai completes your whirlwind tour. On arrival, your private transfer will take you back to your hotel, culminating a busy but rewarding two days. With this all-inclusive package, you avoid the hassle of booking separate tickets or navigating unfamiliar city transport, making it ideal for first-timers or those short on time.

Efficient use of time: The combination of fast bullet trains and private transfers means you maximize sightseeing without the exhaustion of long travel days.
Expert-guided visits: Having knowledgeable guides at each site enriches your understanding of China’s history and culture, transforming sightseeing into storytelling.
Comfort and convenience: From private vehicles in Beijing to first-class train travel, the tour offers a high level of comfort, essential when packing so much into a short trip.
Authentic experiences: Visiting iconic landmarks like the Great Wall and Forbidden City offers genuine insights into China’s imperial past and modern vibrancy.

What might be a drawback? The schedule is quite packed, leaving little room for spontaneous exploration or relaxing breaks. If you prefer a more leisurely pace, this might feel a little rushed, especially on the second day.

This tour is perfect for busy travelers who want a rundown of Beijing’s main sights without the hassle of planning transportation and tickets. It’s also well-suited for first-time visitors eager to see the highlights with expert guidance, making the experience more educational and engaging. If you’re interested in high-speed rail travel and want to combine modernity with tradition, this package offers a compelling blend.

At about $1,226 per person, this tour provides excellent value given the inclusions of round-trip first-class train tickets, entrance fees, private transfers, and meals. The convenience of a private guide and vehicle ensures personalized attention, while the well-thought-out itinerary covers all the must-see landmarks.

While the cost might seem high compared to self-planning, the ease, comfort, and expert guidance make it worth considering for travelers seeking a hassle-free, immersive experience. It’s especially appealing for those who want to make the most of limited time in China, ensuring they leave with a deep appreciation of Beijing’s enduring allure.

How early does the tour start?
The tour begins at 7:00 am, with pickup from your centrally located Shanghai hotel.

Does the tour include train tickets?
Yes, round-trip first-class bullet train tickets are included, making travel fast, comfortable, and stress-free.

Are meals provided?
Yes, the package includes breakfast, lunch, and dinner, including a Peking Duck dinner—a culinary highlight of Beijing.

What are the main attractions covered?
You’ll visit Mutianyu Great Wall, Tiananmen Square, Forbidden City, and Summer Palace, with entrance fees included.

How long is the train journey each way?
Each way takes approximately five hours, allowing plenty of time for comfortable travel and scenic views.

Is this tour suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate; it is designed for those who can handle a busy schedule and enjoy guided sightseeing.

What is the cancellation policy?
Cancellations are accepted up to six days in advance for a full refund. Shorter notice may result in partial or no refunds.

Are guides included?
Yes, a local guide accompanies you, providing insights and helping navigate each site.

What’s the best way to book?
Booking is straightforward through the tour provider, SilkRoadTrips, with confirmation received upon booking.

To sum it up, this 2-day private tour from Shanghai to Beijing by bullet train offers a well-balanced mix of modern comfort and ancient grandeur. It’s geared toward travelers who want efficiency, expert guidance, and access to the city’s top sights without the stress of planning every detail themselves. Whether for a first visit or a quick culture, it promises an informative, enjoyable, and memorable journey.