8-Day China Ancient City Tour: Beijing, Xi’an, Luoyang Tour

Summer Palace

After breakfast, begin your day with a visit to Tiananmen Square, the largest public square in the world. Next, step back in time at the Forbidden City, home to 24 emperors during the Ming and Qing dynasties.

In the afternoon, head to the Summer Palace on the outskirts of Beijing, famous for being the largest and best-preserved royal garden in China. Stroll through its historic pavilions, halls, and bridges while enjoying the scenic views of Kunming Lake and the colorful murals of the Long Corridor.

Mutianyu Great Wall

Today, visit one of the world’s most famous landmarks – the Great Wall of China. Explore the Mutianyu section, known for its stunning views and fewer visitors.

Next, take a walk along the Sacred Way, a 7-kilometer path leading to the Imperial Tombs of 13 Ming Dynasty Emperors. This historic route, believed to be the Emperor’s celestial passage, features 12 pairs of mythical animals and official statues guarding the way.

Afterward, head back to Beijing, with a quick stop at the Olympic Village to admire the iconic Bird’s Nest and Water Cube from the outside.

Hutong

After breakfast, head to the Temple of Heaven, an imperial site now a lively public space where locals practice Tai Chi, dance, and create water calligraphy. Next, explore Beijing’s historic Hutongs by rickshaw, meandering through narrow alleys lined with traditional courtyard houses. Immerse yourself in the old Beijing lifestyle, visit antique shops and boutiques, and stop by a local home to learn about traditional living.

As your Beijing tour wraps up, your guide will escort you to Beijing West Railway Station for a high-speed train ride to Luoyang, about 4 hours away. Upon arrival at Luoyang Longmen Railway Station, a local guide will greet you and transfer you to your hotel. Enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure, beginning to explore this ancient city on your own.

Shaolin Temple

After breakfast, your guide will pick you up at your hotel for a 1.5-hour drive to the renowned Shaolin Temple, located 55 km away. Spend about two hours exploring this legendary site, the birthplace of Zen Buddhism and Kung Fu. Visit the impressive temples and halls, admire detailed stone carvings, learn about Buddhist culture, and observe the monks’ meditation and daily routines. Next, explore the famous Pagoda Forest, the largest collection of pagodas in China. These structures, varying in size and shape, honor monks based on their knowledge, reputation, and lifetime accomplishments. Each pagoda houses the remains of an important monk. You’ll also enjoy a 30-minute Kung Fu show performed by Shaolin monks in the Wushu Hall.

Following the temple visit, take a cable car to the Sanhuang Village trail, known for its scenic views of Mount Song. This 3-kilometer stone stairway built along the mountain cliffs offers a tranquil and breathtaking journey. As you walk, enjoy views of the ancient rock faces and panoramic views of the surrounding area. The hike is suitable for all ages, including seniors and children.

After the hike, take a cable car back down and return to Luoyang.

Longmen Grottoes

Start your day with a visit to the White Horse Temple, a 50-minute drive from downtown. Founded in 68 AD during the Eastern Han dynasty, it is considered China’s first Buddhist temple and has played a significant role in the spread of Buddhism across the country. Explore the ancient main temple and the International Zone, which features temples with unique architectural styles from India, Burma, and Thailand.

Next, take a short 20-minute drive to the Longmen Grottoes, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Luoyang's most famous attractions. Carved into the cliffs along the Yi River, the grottoes showcase impressive Chinese art from the late Northern Wei and Tang Dynasties (316-907). Admire the intricate Buddhist sculptures and inscriptions in major caves such as Fengxian Temple, Guyang Cave, and the Three Bingyang Caves.

After your tour, you'll be transferred to Luoyang Longmen Railway Station for a high-speed train ride to Xi'an, which takes less than two hours. Upon arrival in Xi'an, a local guide will meet you and transfer you to your hotel for check-in.

Ancient City Wall

After breakfast, travel 40 km to witness one of the world’s most incredible archaeological discoveries—the Terracotta Warriors. Created by China’s first emperor, Qin Shihuang, these life-sized clay soldiers, horses, and chariots were buried for over 2,000 years until their discovery by local farmers in 1974. Standing before these meticulously crafted figures, you’ll be amazed by both Emperor Qin’s grand vision and the skill of ancient Chinese artisans. Before touring the museum, enjoy a hands-on experience where you can create your own miniature Terracotta Warrior with guidance from a local potter.

After lunch, head back to Xi'an to explore the Ancient City Wall, China’s largest and best-preserved fortification. Enter through the Hanguang Gate, just like Silk Road traders did centuries ago, and visit a small museum displaying original Tang Dynasty wall ruins that are over 1,400 years old. Walk or bike along the top of the wall for spectacular city views. Later, dive into the vibrant atmosphere of the Muslim Quarter, where you can sample delicious local dishes and experience a unique cultural fusion.

Finish your day with a visit to the Grand Tang Dynasty Ever Bright City, a stunning recreation of China’s golden age. As evening falls, the area comes alive with lights, creating a magical atmosphere that echoes the grandeur and prosperity of the Tang Dynasty.

Big Wild Goose Pagoda

After breakfast, head to the famous Da Cien Temple, a key center for Buddhist sutra translation during the Tang Dynasty. The temple’s standout feature is the Big Wild Goose Pagoda, an impressive 64.5 meters tall. This pagoda was built by the renowned Buddhist monk Xuanzang to house the sacred scriptures he brought back from India in the early Tang Dynasty. Xuanzang is also the inspiration for the character Tang Seng in the classic novel Journey to the West.

Next, take an enlightening tour of the Shaanxi History Museum. Wander through its modern exhibition halls, which display a vast array of artifacts, including porcelains, paintings, and currencies dating from the Zhou to Tang Dynasties (1100 BC to 907 AD). (Please note: During peak tourist seasons, such as from July to early September and China’s National Day holiday (October 1-7), your visit to the Shaanxi History Museum may be replaced with another activity or attraction).

After the tour, you will be transferred to your next destination or to the airport for your departure.