China Essentials: Beijing & Shanghai

Breakfast at the hotel. We will visit the Temple of Heaven, where emperors of the Ming and Qing dynasties once performed ceremonies to worship the gods. If conditions allow, the guide will show us an area of the park where locals practice tai chi or dance.

Later, we will visit a traditional Chinese medicine center to learn about different treatments and the use of herbal remedies that have been used for thousands of years.

Afterward, we will head to the train station to board the high-speed train to Shanghai. Upon arrival, the guide will accompany us to the hotel for check-in. Overnight stay in Shanghai.

Breakfast at the hotel. We will start the day with a walking tour along Nanjing Road to enjoy Shanghai’s most modern views. Next, we will visit a silk factory to learn about the production process of this traditional product.

To wrap up, we will stroll through the historic district’s bazaars near Yuyuan Garden, perfect for shopping for souvenirs and sampling local flavors. In the afternoon, you may continue exploring the city with an optional excursion that includes museums and traditional districts.* If you wish, we also recommend attending a Chinese acrobatics show**, a unique local entertainment experience. Overnight stay in Shanghai.

*Optional visit to Shanghai Museum and Pudong: This tour includes a visit to the Shanghai Museum, famous for its extensive collection of cultural artifacts. Afterwards, we will visit the Pudong district with admission included to the Jin Mao Tower.

**Optional Chinese acrobatic show: Experience one of the world’s oldest performing arts and enjoy an evening filled with culture and entertainment.

Breakfast at the hotel. Today you will enjoy your last free day in this fascinating city to continue discovering everything Shanghai has to offer. For this day, we suggest a cultural excursion to Suzhou*, one of China’s most iconic cities.

To end the day, we recommend a nighttime cruise** to admire the city lights from the river. Overnight stay in Shanghai.

*Optional full-day trip to Suzhou with boat tour: Travel to Suzhou, one of China’s most famous historic and cultural cities, known as the “Venice of the East.” First, visit the Lingering Garden, showcasing the Chinese skill in blending art, nature, and architecture. Then, explore the Suzhou Museum, noted for its modern architecture and antiques collection. Later, enjoy a boat ride along the Pingjiang River in the Old Town. Before returning to Shanghai, see Wumen Bridge and the Prince Zhong Mansion.

**Optional Huangpu River night cruise: Take in the city skyline from the comfort of a river cruise and enjoy a night with spectacular views of Shanghai.