Arrival in Beijing and Settling In

Welcome to Beijing!

Step off the plane and take your first breath of Beijing’s vibrant air, where ancient history meets electrifying modern life.

Smooth Check-In

Head to your chosen accommodation for a hassle-free check-in process, allowing you to refresh and settle in after your journey.

Leisure or Rest

Depending on when you arrive:

• Explore the City: If time allows, set out for a gentle stroll around the neighborhood, sampling local treats or catching the city lights.
• Relax and Recharge: Prefer to rest? Enjoy the comforts of your room and get a good night’s sleep to gear up for your upcoming adventures.

Great Wall Beginnings & Beijing Bonds

Welcome & Briefing at the Hostel

Meet your Adventure Leader and fellow travelers in the hostel lobby for an energetic pre-trip briefing. Learn about your upcoming adventures and start building new friendships in the heart of Beijing.

Journey to the Great Wall

After introductions, grab your bags and head to the train station, where a private bus whisks you away to one of the world’s greatest landmarks—the Great Wall of China.

Hike Along an Unrestored Stretch

Upon arrival, trek along a rugged, rarely-visited section of the Wall. Feel the thrill of treading on centuries-old stones while enjoying sweeping mountain views.

Camping or Guesthouse Stay at the Wall

As evening falls, either set up camp in serene solitude right on the Wall, or, from May to September, settle into a guesthouse nearby for a rustic, cozy night (weather dependent).

Sunset, Stargazing, & Mandarin Lesson

Watch the sun sink below the horizon, then gather for stargazing and a fun Mandarin lesson around camp, making the most of your first magical night in China.

Sunrise Majesty & Beijing Urban Adventures

Sunrise at the Great Wall 

Start your day with a magical sunrise atop the iconic Great Wall. This unforgettable experience, weather permitting, delivers views you'll never forget as the ancient stone glows gold in the morning light.

Art & Culture in Beijing 

Back in the city, unleash your inner explorer. Dive into Beijing’s creative pulse with a visit to the funky 798 Art District, home to colorful street art, cool galleries, and hip cafés.

Serenity at Summer Palace 

Wander the peaceful lakeside walkways and ornate halls of the Summer Palace, where tranquil gardens and classic architecture offer the perfect city escape.

Custom City Adventure 

Team up with your travel crew or roam solo—explore local markets, sample street food, or tick more must-see highlights off your Beijing bucket list.

Imperial Treasures and Beijing Delicacies Day 

Morning at Tiananmen Square

Kick off your day with an optional early stroll across Tiananmen Square—China’s symbolic heart. The wide-open square buzzes with history and the impressive presence of monumental government buildings.

Dive into the Forbidden City

Step into the majestic Forbidden City, the world’s largest palace complex. Walk among 980 gilded buildings and picture the lives of 24 emperors who once ruled from here. Every courtyard has a tale, and the architecture is breathtaking.

Panoramic Views from Jingshan Park

After exploring the palace, climb the gentle slopes of Jingshan Park, just behind the Forbidden City. From the top, enjoy unbeatable views stretching across the palace rooftops and all of Beijing.

Evening Choices: Acrobatics Show or Peking Duck

As night falls, pick your perfect ending:

• Watch a Spellbinding Acrobatics Show – Marvel at gravity-defying acts, dazzling costumes, and centuries-old circus traditions.
• Savor Legendary Peking Duck – Indulge in Beijing’s signature dish, crispy and succulent, the same delicacy once reserved for emperors.

Markets, Monuments & Hutong Adventures

Bargain Hunt

Kick off your final day in Beijing immersing yourself in the city’s famous fake goods markets. Whether you’re after designer “finds” or unique souvenirs, haggling is half the fun – and the bustling atmosphere offers a proper local experience.

Temple of Heaven Tranquility

Stroll through the tranquil gardens and grand religious halls of the Temple of Heaven. As one of Beijing’s most revered sites, its ancient architecture and peaceful grounds provide a welcome escape from the city’s frenzy – perfect for reflection and photos.

Hutong Wandering & Nanluo Discoveries

Dive into the energetic Nanluo district, famous for its labyrinth of narrow hutong alleys. Explore hidden courtyards, snap photos under red lanterns, and uncover quirky cafés and bohemian bars along the way. Every turn reveals something new.

Night Train to Hangzhou

Collect your bags and head to the train station. As Beijing’s bright lights fade, settle in for your overnight journey – dreaming of the adventures that await in Hangzhou!

West Lake Serenity & Hangzhou Nightlife Adventure

Scenic West Lake Boat Ride

Begin your Hangzhou adventure with a relaxed late breakfast. Then set out for iconic West Lake. Glide across its tranquil waters on a boat, basking in poetic landscapes immortalized by emperors and poets. Hop off at a lush island for photos and exploration.

Cultural Stops (Optional)

Choose your next adventure: visit the fascinating National Tea Museum to uncover tea’s rich heritage, admire silken treasures at the Silk Museum, or wander among ancient Buddhist relics at Lingyin Temple. These sites offer a deeper dive into Hangzhou’s artistic and spiritual life.

Jiuyao Mountain Sunset

As the day wanes, ascend Jiuyao Mountain. The climb is rewarded by a mesmerizing sunset; the golden light dances over West Lake and Hangzhou’s skyline, an unforgettable sight for shutterbugs and romantics alike.

Nightlife on Hefang Road

After your descent, head to Hefang Road for dinner and evening strolls. This bustling old street is lined with glowing lanterns, street food stalls, quirky shops, and throbbing with local energy—a perfect spot to end your night in Hangzhou.

Misty Valleys to Iconic Urban Glow

Hike Through the Misty 9 Creeks

Set out early for a refreshing hike through the 9 Creeks in Misty Woods. Surrounded by green valley vistas and centuries-old Longjing tea plantations, stroll gentle forest paths, cross stone bridges, and listen to the melodious water burbling alongside you—a feast for the eyes and spirit.

Lunch & Leisure 

Recharge with a delicious local lunch followed by some time to relax and freshen up after your morning adventure.

Onward to Shanghai

Board a sleek high-speed train for Shanghai, watching rural landscapes blur past as you anticipate the city’s thrilling energy.

Dazzling Night River Cruise (Optional, 8:00 PM onwards)

Once in Shanghai, unwind with an optional evening cruise along the Huangpu River, marveling as the city’s skyline blazes to life with neon lights and reflections on the water—an unforgettable arrival.

Mandarin, Markets & Magnificent Skylines

Mandarin Magic

Start your Shanghai adventure with a lively Mandarin lesson at a local language school. Professional teachers make learning interactive, so you’ll be chatting confidently with locals in no time!

Yu Gardens Serenity

After class, discover the tranquil beauty of Yu Gardens, originally a private retreat for a wealthy family. Wander through elegant pavilions, koi ponds, and ornate rockeries.

Heart of the City

Next, dive into the vibrant energy of People’s Square. Absorb the local life, grand city center atmosphere, and dazzling fountains.

Shopping Spree on West Nanjing Road

Feeling the shopping itch? Head to West Nanjing Road, one of the world’s busiest shopping avenues. Find everything from luxury brands and Chinese boutiques to bustling malls.

The Bund & Skyline Delights

As dusk descends, stroll along the iconic Bund, marveling at historical architecture set against the futuristic skyline. Don’t miss snapping some magical photos!

Sky-High Views & Legendary Pub Crawl

Cap off the night with a cocktail at a towering skyscraper bar, gazing over twinkling city lights. Up for more? Dive into the legendary Shanghai Pub Crawl for an unforgettable night out.

Shanghai Your Way: Culture, Fun, Adventure

Theme Park Magic at Disneyland

Morning to Evening

If you're craving thrills and fairy-tale wonder, spend the day at Shanghai Disneyland. Enjoy captivating rides, spectacular shows, and meet your favorite Disney characters for a truly magical experience.

Dive into Culture

Morning or Afternoon

Discover history and culture at the Shanghai Museum. Marvel at ancient artifacts, exquisite ceramics, classical Chinese paintings, and interactive exhibits set in a breathtaking building.

Stroll Moganshan Art Street

Late Morning or Afternoon

Wander along Moganshan Art Street, where trendy galleries, quirky street art, and indie boutiques showcase Shanghai’s creative spirit. Meet local artists or find a unique souvenir.

Waterways of Zhujiajiao

Half Day Trip

For a taste of old China, journey to Zhujiajiao Watertown. Meander through peaceful canals, cross charming stone bridges, and sample delicious local snacks along historic lanes.

Shop and Bargain

Anytime

Put your bargaining skills to the test at Shanghai’s lively fake goods market. Score deals on fashion, accessories, and quirky memorabilia in a bustling setting.

However you choose to spend your time, the city’s eclectic mix of adventures promises an unforgettable day tailored to your interests.

Sky-High Sights & Secret Streets

French Concession Stroll

Begin your day wandering through the tree-lined avenues of the French Concession. Marvel at elegant colonial architecture, charming boutiques, and lively cafés that bring the district’s unique European flair to life.

Propaganda Museum Discovery

Dive into history by finding the secretive Propaganda Poster Art Centre. Explore rare posters and artifacts that reveal China’s fascinating propaganda heritage.

Artistic Lanes of Tianzifang 

Lose yourself in the maze of Tianzifang, a hip artsy neighborhood packed with whimsical art studios, creative shops, and eclectic eateries tucked within converted factories and alleyways.

Skyline Adventure at Jinmao Tower

Head to Shanghai’s futuristic financial district and ride the elevator up Jinmao Tower. The observation deck offers jaw-dropping views of the expansive city below. Feel a thrill on the glass-clad skywalk, daringly 340 meters above Shanghai’s bustling streets!

Culinary Delights & Nightlife 

Wrap up your adventure as your Adventure Leader guides you to the city's best spots for unforgettable eats and vibrant drinks, immersing yourself in Shanghai’s pulsating nightlife.

Shanghai Farewell and Last Memories

Final Farewell

Say your goodbyes to your Adventure Leader and newfound friends as your incredible journey through China comes to an end. This is your moment to swap contacts, reminisce about your favorite moments, and reflect on the extraordinary experiences you've shared.

Departure & Last Looks at Shanghai

After heartfelt farewells, you'll have the rest of the day free in vibrant Shanghai. Spend your extra night however you wish—strolling along the Bund, savoring local dishes, or picking up last-minute souvenirs.

Relax and Reflect

Take this evening to unwind at your accommodation and absorb the memories from your epic journey. Tomorrow, you’ll set out on your next adventure—or head home with tales to tell.

Fond Farewells and New Beginnings

Check-Out and Farewell

Begin your day by packing up and checking out of your accommodation. Take time to reminisce about the unforgettable moments you’ve created during your journey.

Goodbyes and Well Wishes 

Share last hugs, exchange contact details, and say heartfelt farewells to your friends, new and old. Capture a final group photo to remember your shared adventure!

Onwards to New Adventures

Set off towards your next destination—whether home or another exciting stop—with best wishes and a head full of memories.