Megacities in China

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Begin the day at Tiananmen Square, where Mao Zedong proclaimed the founding of the People’s Republic of China in 1949. His mausoleum and the Monument to the People’s Heroes stand in the centre of the square, which is surrounded by several important national buildings. At its northern end stands Tiananmen Gate, beyond which lies the Forbidden City, enclosed by imposing red walls. Explore the grand ceremonial halls of the Outer Court before continuing to the smaller buildings and courtyards of the former imperial private quarters. The immense scale of the palace complex is sure to impress.
In the afternoon, visit the Temple of Heaven in southern Beijing. Once reserved for emperors who came to pray for good harvests, the historic complex is now open to visitors. Its surrounding park is also a popular gathering place, where local residents meet to play cards, sing, and exercise.

Temple of Heaven

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The entire day is free for you to explore Beijing independently. With so much to see in China’s capital, your guide will be happy to offer suggestions and help you plan your day. Alternatively, join an optional excursion beginning at the Lama Temple, the largest Tibetan Buddhist temple complex outside Tibet, followed by the nearby Confucius Temple, dedicated to the famous Chinese philosopher.
Afterwards, wander through Beijing’s historic hutongs and perhaps make a brief visit to a local family living in the neighbourhood. The excursion also includes Jingshan Park, also known as Coal Hill, a small park just north of the Forbidden City. From the top of the hill, you can enjoy an outstanding view across the entire palace complex.

Beijing

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Today, take a high-speed train from Beijing to the megacity of Shanghai. China’s modern high-speed trains can reach speeds of up to 300 km/h. Upon arrival, you will be taken to your hotel. We recommend spending the afternoon strolling along the Bund and exploring Nanjing Road, Shanghai's main shopping street. In the evening, you can join an optional excursion to a spectacular acrobatics show. Shanghai's acrobats are renowned throughout China and regularly perform with the Chinese State Circus during its international tours. The performance is sure to be a highlight of your visit.

Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street

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Begin the day with a tour of Shanghai’s Old Town, which offers a glimpse of what the city looked like towards the end of the Qing Dynasty. Today, the area is home to numerous souvenir shops and well-known restaurants, as well as the famous Yu Garden, a fine example of a traditional private garden from southern China. Although popular with tourists, the garden remains a peaceful green oasis in the heart of the Old Town. Next, visit the Bund, Shanghai’s waterfront promenade. Historic trading houses line the west bank of the Huangpu River, while the ultra-modern skyscrapers of Pudong rise across the water. Take in a bird's-eye view of the city from the observation deck of Shanghai Tower before continuing to Longhua Temple, a peaceful Buddhist temple just outside the city centre. Afterwards, stroll along Nanjing Road, where busy shops, local shoppers, colourful signs, and eye-catching advertising displays create a lively atmosphere. A return visit in the evening is highly recommended, when the street and surrounding skyline are illuminated.

The Bund

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Today, you can either explore Shanghai at your own pace or join an optional excursion to Luzhi and Suzhou. Begin in Luzhi, an idyllic water town where many of the traditional buildings in the historic centre remain well preserved. Narrow canals crisscross the town and are still used as local waterways. Continue to Suzhou, known as the “Garden City.” Here, visit the Master of the Nets Garden, a former private garden that is one of the smallest yet most beautiful in China. Afterwards, take a walk through the city centre and visit a silk-spinning mill. Jiangsu Province has long been one of the centres of China’s silk industry. Return to Shanghai in the evening.

Luzhi Water Town

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Depending on your departure time, you will be transferred to the airport for your return or onward flight.