8-Day Beijing, Xi’an, and Shanghai Private Tour-Detail
Why ST-CTour
Save Your Time:
- Less research, more enjoyment!
- Real-time 1V1 expert planning
Maximize Your Flexibility:
- Personal local guide and ride
- Explore at your own pace
Live Your China Story:
- Authentic local culture and lifestyles
- Understand the culture by living it
China Golden Triangle
Saswati’s Customized China Trip
Hi! I’m Lynn, your China travel specialist. I have helped many travelers create personalized journeys across China, combining the country’s must-see highlights with authentic local experiences. From imperial capitals and ancient wonders to vibrant modern skylines, I hope this itinerary gives you a smooth, meaningful, and memorable introduction to China.
Let’s begin your journey.
What I Have Learned about Your Travel Plan
Client Name:
Trip Length: 8 Days
Destinations: Beijing, Xi’an, and Shanghai
Travel Style: Private Tour
Hotel Level: 4 Star Standard Hotels
Advisor: Lynn
Suggested Itinerary Overview for You
Tour price includes the following hotels, activities, and transportation, and visits to attractions are by private car and guide unless otherwise stated. Your guide will meet you in the hotel lobby each day. The exact pick-up time will be confirmed the day before. If you prefer an earlier or later start, please feel free to let your guide know.
D 1
Arrive in Beijing
Transport: Flight (Your arrangements)
Accommodation: Manxin Hotel Beijing Happy Valley University of Technology
Today’s Activities: Airport or railway station transfer to hotel
Meals: Breakfast
D 2
Beijing
Accommodation: Manxin Hotel Beijing Happy Valley University of Technology
Today’s Activities: Tiananmen Square, the Forbidden City, Beijing roast duck, Hutong alleys
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
D 3
Beijing
Accommodation: Manxin Hotel Beijing Happy Valley University of Technology
One-Bedroom Suite
Today’s Activities: Temple of Heaven, the Mutianyu Great Wall
Meals: Breakfast
D 4
Beijing to Xi’an
Transport: High-Speed Train
Accommodation: Wassim Hotel or Similar
Today’s Activities: Summer Palace, transfer to railway station, high-speed train to Xi’an
Meals: Breakfast
D 5
Xi’an
Accommodation: Wassim Hotel or Similar
Today’s Activities: Terracotta Army, traditional cave dwelling experience, Ancient City Wall
Meals: Breakfast
D 6
Xi’an to Shanghai
Transport: Flight
Accommodation: Days Hotel by Wyndham Shanghai or Similar
Today’s Activities: Xi’an Museum, Small Wild Goose Pagoda, Muslim Quarter, flight to Shanghai
Meals: Breakfast
D 7
Shanghai
Accommodation: Days Hotel by Wyndham Shanghai or Similar
Today’s Activities: The Bund, Shanghai Tower, half-day customized experience
Meals: Breakfast
D 8
Departure from Shanghai
Transport: Flight (Your arrangements)
Today’s Activities: Private transfer for your onward journey
Meals: Breakfast,
Must-Sees and Unique Experiences
Discover Beijing’s Imperial Heart
Walk through the symbolic center of China in Beijing, where Tiananmen Square, the Forbidden City, the Temple of Heaven, the Great Wall, and the Summer Palace reveal the grandeur, ritual, and elegance of imperial China.
Explore the Hidden Halls of the Forbidden City
Most tour groups only visit the six major halls on the central axis. With your private guide, go beyond the standard route to explore lesser-known palaces and quieter courtyards, gaining a deeper understanding of imperial life and history.
Walk on One of the Best-Preserved Sections of the Great Wall
Visit Mutianyu, one of the most scenic and best-restored parts of the Great Wall. Surrounded by mountains and watchtowers, it offers a classic and unforgettable Great Wall experience.
Taste China Through Its Signature Flavors
Enjoy crispy Beijing roast duck, experience Xi’an’s rich culinary heritage, and discover local flavors in Shanghai. This journey blends sightseeing with memorable dining experiences.
Unveil the Secrets of the Terracotta Army
See one of the world’s greatest archaeological discoveries up close. Learn the story behind Qin Shi Huang’s underground army and gain insight into the ambition, artistry, and military power of China’s first emperor.
Make Your Own Mini Terracotta Warrior
Visit a traditional cave dwelling and enjoy a hands-on cultural experience with a local craftsman, creating your own small terracotta warrior as a meaningful travel memory.
Walk or Cycle on Xi’an’s Ancient City Wall
Enjoy a different perspective of Xi’an from atop one of China’s best-preserved city walls, where the city’s ancient heritage and modern rhythm meet in one panoramic view.
Discover the Hidden Stories of the Bund and Ascend Shanghai Tower
Step back into the Bund’s golden age and uncover stories hidden behind its grand façades. Then rise to the top of Shanghai Tower for breathtaking panoramic views of China’s most futuristic metropolis.
Enjoy a Half-Day Customized Icing-on-the-Cake Experience
End your trip in Shanghai with something tailored to your interests. Whether you prefer art, fashion, relaxation, local culture, or shopping, we can create a personalized half-day experience just for you.
Hand-Picked Hotels
Suggested 8-Day Itinerary
Day 1 | Arrival in Beijing
Accommodation:
Today's Activities: Airport arrival and private transfer to hotel
Meals: Breakfast,
Arrival in Beijing
Welcome to Beijing, China’s historic capital. Upon arrival, your private guide will meet you at the airport and escort you to your hotel by private car. No sightseeing is arranged today, allowing you time to rest and recover from your journey before the adventure begins.
Suggested time: flexible, depending on flight schedule
Day 2 | Beijing | Tiananmen Square, the Forbidden City, Beijing Roast Duck, and Hutong Alleys
Accommodation:
Today's Activities: Tiananmen Square, the Forbidden City, Beijing roast duck, Hutong Alleys
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch,
Tiananmen Square (30 minutes)
Begin your exploration in the symbolic heart of Beijing. Tiananmen Square is one of the largest public squares in the world and a place of great historical and cultural significance.
The Forbidden City (3–3.5 hours)
Continue to the Forbidden City, the largest and best-preserved ancient palace complex in China. Beyond the main axis, your private guide will lead you to selected hidden halls and quieter corners for a deeper and more rewarding visit.
Beijing Roast Duck Lunch (1 hour)
At lunchtime, enjoy one of Beijing’s most iconic culinary experiences. Watch the chef’s expert slicing skills, taste the crispy duck skin, and learn the traditional way to enjoy this famous local specialty.
Hutong Alleys (1.5 hours)
Later, spend a relaxing afternoon exploring Beijing’s traditional hutong neighborhoods. These historic lanes reveal a quieter and more intimate side of the capital, full of local life and old-city charm.
Day 3 | Beijing | Temple of Heaven and the Mutianyu Great Wall
Accommodation:
Today's Activities: Temple of Heaven, Mutianyu Great Wall
Meals: Breakfast,
Temple of Heaven (1.5 hours)
This morning, visit the Temple of Heaven, one of China’s most remarkable examples of ritual architecture. Built for emperors to pray for good harvests, it remains both spiritually significant and visually elegant.
Mutianyu Great Wall (2.5–3 hours)
In the afternoon, head to Mutianyu, one of the most scenic and beautifully restored sections of the Great Wall. Though it is outside the city, the mountain scenery and impressive architecture make the journey well worth it.
Day 4 | Beijing | Summer Palace and High-Speed Train to Xi’an
Accommodation:
Today's Activities: Summer Palace, high-speed train to Xi’an
Meals: Breakfast,
Summer Palace (2 hours)
Spend the morning at the Summer Palace, China’s most famous imperial garden retreat. Its tranquil lake, elegant pavilions, long corridors, and landscaped hills reflect the refined leisure life of the Qing court.
High-Speed Train to Xi’an (about 5.5–6 hours)
Later, transfer to the railway station and board a high-speed train to Xi’an. Upon arrival, your local guide will greet you and escort you to your hotel.
Day 5 | Xi’an | Terracotta Army, Traditional Cave Dwelling, and Ancient City Wall
Accommodation:
Today's Activities: Terracotta Army, traditional cave dwelling experience, Ancient City Wall
Meals: Breakfast,
Terracotta Army (2.5–3 hours)
Begin with the Terracotta Army, one of the greatest archaeological discoveries in the world. These life-sized clay soldiers, horses, and chariots offer an extraordinary glimpse into the ambition and military power of China’s first emperor.
Traditional Cave Dwelling and Mini Warrior Making (1.5 hours)
Then visit a local craftsman’s traditional cave dwelling, where you will learn more about terracotta-making techniques and create your own mini terracotta warrior by hand.
Ancient City Wall (1.5 hours)
After returning to the city, walk along Xi’an’s Ancient City Wall, one of the best-preserved city walls in China. From above, enjoy broad views over the old city and the modern districts beyond.
Day 6 | Xi’an | Xi’an Museum, Small Wild Goose Pagoda, Muslim Quarter, and Flight to Shanghai
Accommodation:
Today's Activities: Xi’an Museum, Small Wild Goose Pagoda, Muslim Quarter, flight to Shanghai
Meals: Breakfast,
Xi’an Museum (1–1.5 hours)
This morning, continue your discovery of Xi’an with a visit to Xi’an Museum, where cultural relics and exhibitions help bring the city’s long and layered history to life.
Small Wild Goose Pagoda (45 minutes)
Located within the museum area, the Small Wild Goose Pagoda is one of Xi’an’s most graceful Buddhist monuments and a reminder of the city’s historical role along the Silk Road.
Muslim Quarter (1–1.5 hours)
Afterward, explore the Muslim Quarter, one of Xi’an’s liveliest neighborhoods. Its bustling lanes, local snacks, traditional shops, and energetic atmosphere provide a vivid contrast to the city’s formal historic sites.
Flight to Shanghai (about 2–2.5 hours, excluding airport transfers)
Later, transfer to the airport for your flight to Shanghai. Upon arrival, your Shanghai guide will meet you and escort you to your hotel.
Day 7 | Shanghai | The Bund, Shanghai Tower, and a Half-Day Customized Experience
Accommodation:
Today's Activities: The Bund, Shanghai Tower, half-day customized experience
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
The Bund (1.5–2 hours)
This morning, do more than simply take photos on the Bund. Discover the hidden stories behind its historic architecture and step back into the golden age of old Shanghai.
Shanghai Tower (1.5 hours)
Then ascend Shanghai Tower, the tallest building in China, for panoramic views over the city. From above, you can clearly see the contrast between historic Shanghai and its futuristic skyline.
Half-Day Customized Icing-on-the-Cake Experience (flexible)
After days of cultural discovery, enjoy a more personal ending to your trip. Whether you would like to relax, shop, explore art, enjoy local lifestyle experiences, or pursue a special interest, your guide will help tailor this half-day to your wishes.
Day 8 | Departure from Shanghai
Accommodation: /
Today's Activities: Private transfer for departure
Meals: Breakfast,
Departure Transfer
According to your departure arrangements, your private guide and driver will escort you to the airport on time and assist you with departure procedures, ensuring a smooth and stress-free end to your journey.
Suggested time: flexible, depending on departure schedule
Your 8-day journey ends here, leaving you with memories of imperial Beijing, ancient Xi’an, and dynamic Shanghai — three iconic cities that together offer a rich and unforgettable introduction to China.
Price Includes
· Private air-conditioned transfers with experienced local drivers
· Professional private guides in each destination
· Entrance fees for all listed attractions
· Domestic flight or High-speed train
· Breakfast, lunch mentioned
· Listed special local experiences
· 24/7 travel support during your trip
Tour Price & Booking Information
Price Information
COST PER ADULT (Based on Double Occupancy): 998 usd
Accommodation
The tour includes 1 room for 2 travelers.
Quotation Validity
This quotation is valid for 7 days from the date of issue.
Exchange Rate
The quotation is based on the exchange rate applicable at the time it is prepared. For payments made in foreign currencies, the exchange rate in effect on the date of payment will apply.
As exchange rates may fluctuate, early confirmation is recommended to help secure the current quotation.
Payment Information
To confirm the tour, a 10% deposit is required. The remaining balance is due 30 days before departure.
For reservations made within 30 days of departure, full payment is required at the time of booking.
Payment Methods
· Visa or MasterCard via secure online payment through PayPal
· Wire transfer
· Once the deposit has been received, we will begin making the necessary reservations. A Confirmation Letter will be sent after all services included in your tour have been confirmed.
The Price Includes
· English-speaking tour guide service
· Admission fees to the listed attractions
· Private transfers between airports, railway stations, hotels, and sightseeing locations, unless otherwise stated
· Flights or train tickets as specified in the itinerary
· Meals as specified in the itinerary
· Hotel accommodation as listed in the itinerary
Luggage Reminder
Each traveler is allowed to bring one suitcase. If you expect to travel with more than one large suitcase per person, please consult your travel advisor in advance regarding any possible additional charges.
The Price Excludes
· International airfare to and from your home country
· Visa fees
· Excess baggage charges
· Personal expenses
· Tips for guides and drivers
· Travel insurance
Rail Travel Notes
Please note that railway tickets in China are normally released around 10 days before departure, and sometimes later during major holiday periods such as National Day and Labor Day.
Due to limited availability and strong demand, first-class or business-class seats cannot be guaranteed at all times. If only second-class seats are available, the price difference will be refunded accordingly.
Seat assignments are made by the official railway ticketing system based on availability. As a result, we may not be able to guarantee that travelers in the same party will be seated together, especially during peak travel seasons.
In order to secure tickets, it may occasionally be necessary to adjust the train schedule. Should this happen, we will inform you promptly and do our best to minimize any inconvenience.
On some routes, tickets may only become available one day before departure.
When appropriate, rail travel may be replaced with another suitable form of transportation. This may lead to minor adjustments to the itinerary.
Terms & Conditions
Cancellation Policy
We understand that travel plans may change. If you need to cancel your trip, the following refund policy will apply:
· 22 days or more before departure: 100% refund
·15–21 days before departure: 70% refund
· 8–14 days before departure: 50% refund
· 0–7 days before departure: No refund
· No-show: No refund
· Once the tour has begun, no refund can be given for any unused services resulting from:
· Unwillingness or inability to participate
· Early departure
· Late arrival
· Missed tour days
Important Notes
· We reserve the right of final interpretation of this policy where necessary.
· This cancellation policy does not apply to groups of 10 or more travelers, or to penalties imposed by hotels, airlines, cruise companies, railway authorities, or other third-party suppliers. Any such charges will be clearly itemized.
· For special situations or case-specific questions, please consult your travel advisor directly.
· We are committed to making your journey as smooth, transparent, and worry-free as possible, and we sincerely appreciate the opportunity to help plan your trip.