Classical China - 9 days

Classical China - 9 days

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9 Days From

$2405

$1684

Classical China - 9 days

9 Days Starting in Beijing, China and ending in Shanghai, China

Visiting: Beijing, Xi'an, Shanghai

Tour operator:

On The Go Tours

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

2 - 28

Physical rating:

Medium

Age range:

16-

Tour operated in:

English

Activities:

Sightseeing, Walking

From: $2405 $1684 Operator discount: -$722 -30%

NB: Prices correct on 23-Dec-2024 but subject to change.

Tour Overview

Embark on a captivating 9-day journey through Classical China, exploring the rich history and vibrant culture of Beijing, Xi'an, and Shanghai. Begin in Beijing with visits to Tiananmen Square, the Forbidden City, and the Great Wall at Mutianyu. Discover the ancient Hutongs and the Summer Palace before traveling by high-speed train to Xi'an. Marvel at the Terracotta Warriors, the Big Wild Goose Pagoda, and the historic City Walls. Continue to Shanghai, where you'll immerse yourself in the beauty of Yu Garden, the bustling Nanjing Road, and the iconic Bund. Conclude your adventure with a serene visit to Zhujiajiao Water Town and the Former French Concession. Enjoy guided sightseeing, comfortable accommodations, and authentic local cuisine throughout this unforgettable tour.

Highlights

  • Beijing - Visit the iconic Tiananmen Square, Forbidden City, explore the Hutong area of Beijing, and the Mutianyu section of the Great Wall

  • Xi'an - Discover the UNESCO listed Terracotta Warriors, Terracotta Warrior Factory, the Big Wild Goose Pagoda and the historic City Walls

  • Shanghai - Immerse yourself in the stunning Yu Garden, stroll down the vibrant Nanjing Road, and take in the breathtaking views of the city skyline from the historic Bund

  • Zhujiajiao Water Town - Discover this ancient canal town with its charming waterways and historic buildings

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1: Beijing

Location: Beijing

Accommodation Name: hotel

Upon arrival in Beijing, please make your own way to the start hotel for check in. The rest of the day is at leisure.

Day 2: Beijing

Location: Beijing

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

After breakfast at our hotel, we will visit the historic site where the People's Republic of China was founded. Tiananmen Square, one of the world's most remarkable public spaces, lies at the heart of Beijing.





We will then visit the Forbidden City, the largest ancient palace complex in the world. As we explore its grand halls and beautiful gardens, we will witness the best-preserved imperial palace in China, a site of immense historical significance.





Lunch will be included at a local Chinese restaurant before we head to the Temple of Heaven. This architectural masterpiece was visited by the Emperors of the Ming and Qing dynasties for centuries. It's where they prayed for a good harvest and is a stunning testament to imperial architecture. We will have a chance to experience a traditional tea ceremony before transferring back to the hotel, with free time to get dinner or further explore Beijing.

Day 3: Beijing

Location: Beijing

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

After breakfast at our hotel, we will head to the Mutianyu section of the Great Wall. Here, we can marvel at this incredible feat of Chinese engineering and ingenuity, a breathtaking monument to human achievement set against a backdrop of spectacular scenery.





After lunch, we will visit the Summer Palace, once the retreat of the imperial family. This enchanting site offers breathtaking views and the chance to admire the serene Kunming Lake. The beautifully adorned buildings and courtyards are steeped in history and provide a glimpse into the grandeur of China’s imperial past.





We will then get our transfer back to the hotel, and the evening is at leisure.

Day 4: Beijing

Location: Beijing

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Beijing - Xi'an. We start today with a guided tour of Beijing's charming and intricate alleyways, known as ‘Hutongs’, experiencing them in style. We'll then enjoy lunch at a local family home or a traditional restaurant.





In the afternoon, we will transfer to Beijing West Railway Station to catch a high-speed train to Xi'an, travelling in comfort in a second-class seat for the 5-6 hour journey. Upon arrival in Xi'an, you will be warmly welcomed by our local guide at the railway station and will then be transferred to our hotel in Xi'án.

Day 5: Xi'an

Location: Xi'an

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Embark on a visit to the Terracotta Warrior Museum, where we’ll encounter the ‘eighth wonder of the world’. This awe-inspiring army of silent statues offers a spellbinding glimpse into ancient China and is sure to be a highlight of our tour. Next, we’ll explore a workshop where these legendary terracotta figures are crafted, revealing the intricate artistry behind them. Following this, we'll savour a delectable lunch at a local Chinese restaurant, immersing ourselves in authentic flavours.





In the afternoon, we’ll marvel at the Big Wild Goose Pagoda, a stunning and well-preserved ancient marvel, one of China’s oldest surviving structures of its kind. Our adventure continues with a visit to a jade factory, where we’ll uncover the cultural significance of this stone before we transfer back to our hotel for a well-deserved rest.

Day 6: Xi'an

Location: Xi'an

Accommodation Name: Overnight: Sleeper train

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Xi'an - Shanghai. We will start our day by exploring the ancient City Wall, a remarkable relic from the Ming Dynasty that dates back 600 years and is the best-preserved of its kind in China.





Next, we’ll wander through the vibrant Muslim Quarter, where we’ll have the chance to sample a variety of delicious local street foods at the market. Our adventure continues with a visit to the Great Mosque, an impressive example of Islamic architecture in China.





After lunch, we’ll transfer to the railway station to board our overnight train to Shanghai (4 berth cabin). Departing mid-afternoon, we’ll embark on a train journey of approximately 15-16 hours. We recommend you stock up on snacks befor the journey!

Day 7: Shanghai

Location: Shanghai

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Upon our arrival in Shanghai, we'll transfer to our hotel for a hearty breakfast. Our first destination today is the enchanting Yu Garden, nestled in the heart of the old city centre. This beautifully preserved garden, constructed 400 years ago during the Ming Dynasty, offers a serene escape amid the bustling modern city, providing us with a fascinating glimpse into Shanghai's historical charm.





After lunch at a local Chinese restaurant, we will visit the Jade Buddha Temple, established in 1882. This revered temple is renowned for its stunning white jade Burmese Buddha statues, which are truly a sight to behold.





We’ll then take a leisurely stroll down Nanjing Road, Shanghai's famed shopping boulevard, where the vibrant energy, dazzling lights, and spectacle of the city come alive in one bustling location. Our day continues with a visit to the Bund, where we’ll marvel at Shanghai’s iconic skyline. The Pudong area showcases striking modernist architecture, standing in striking contrast to the ornate colonial buildings on the opposite bank of the river. Then it's a transfer back to the hotel, and free time to relax or head out to discover Shanghai's nightlife.

Day 8: Shanghai

Location: Shanghai

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

We’ll begin our day with a visit to Zhujiajiao, often dubbed the ‘Venice of China’. This picturesque water town offers a charming escape from the bright lights and towering skyscrapers of Shanghai. Here, we’ll drift along tranquil canals, where daily life is leisurely conducted by boat, and admire buildings that gracefully rise just above the waterline.





After lunch at a local restaurant, we’ll explore the Former French Concession. This historic district is renowned for its elegant tree-lined streets, colonial architecture, and vibrant atmosphere, providing us with a unique glimpse into Shanghai's cosmopolitan past.





Our adventure continues with a visit to a silk factory, where we’ll discover the intricate process of silk production. Your final evening in China is at leisure.

Day 9: Shanghai

Location: Shanghai

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

Today marks the conclusion of your remarkable China adventure, full of cultural wonders and tasty delicacies. After breakfast and 12pm hotel check-out, make your own way to the airport for your onward flight.

What's Included

  • 8 Breakfasts and 7 lunches

    Enjoy 8 breakfasts and 7 lunches during your tour.

  • 7 nights 3-4 star hotels

    Stay in 3-4 star hotels for 7 nights.

  • 1 overnight train (soft sleeper 4-berth cabin) from Xi’an to Shanghai (2nd class)

    Experience an overnight train journey from Xi’an to Shanghai in a soft sleeper 4-berth cabin (2nd class).

  • Guided sightseeing in Beijing, Xi’an & Shanghai

    Enjoy guided sightseeing tours in Beijing, Xi’an, and Shanghai.

  • Entrance fees as per itinerary

    All entrance fees as per the itinerary are included.

  • English speaking specialist guides at local sights

    Benefit from the expertise of English-speaking specialist guides at local sights.

  • 1 Highspeed train ticket Beijing to Xi’an (2nd class)

    Travel from Beijing to Xi’an on a high-speed train in a 2nd class seat.

  • All relevant transfers and transportation in private A/C vehicles

    All relevant transfers and transportation are provided in private air-conditioned vehicles.

  • Note: This tour is operated in conjunction with our trusted partner and you will join travellers from different operators, not solely On The Go

    This tour is operated in conjunction with a trusted partner, and you will join travelers from different operators.

What's Not Included

  • International flights and visa

    International flights and visa are not included.

  • Airport arrival & departure transfers

    Airport arrival and departure transfers are not included.

  • Tip for your tour guide

    Tips for your tour guide are not included.

    It is recommended to allow USD $6 per person per day for your guide and USD $3 per person per day for your driver.

    Tipping is an entirely personal gesture.

Mode of Transport

Travel in private A/C vehicles, experience a high-speed train from Beijing to Xi’an, and an overnight train from Xi’an to Shanghai, providing a mix of comfort and adventure.

Accommodation

Enjoy 7 nights in 3-4 star hotels and 1 overnight train (soft sleeper 4-berth cabin) from Xi’an to Shanghai, ensuring comfort and convenience throughout your journey.

Age Policy

16+  if accompanied by an adult

Check out our Q&As

  • What type of accommodation is provided during the tour?

    The tour includes 7 nights in 3-4 star hotels and 1 overnight train (soft sleeper 4-berth cabin) from Xi’an to Shanghai.

  • Are meals included in the tour package?

    Yes, the tour includes 8 breakfasts and 7 lunches.

  • What kind of transportation is used during the tour?

    The tour includes all relevant transfers and transportation in private air-conditioned vehicles, a high-speed train ticket from Beijing to Xi’an (2nd class), and an overnight train from Xi’an to Shanghai (2nd class, soft sleeper 4-berth cabin).

  • Are entrance fees to attractions included in the tour price?

    Yes, entrance fees as per the itinerary are included in the tour price.

  • Will there be a guide during the tour?

    Yes, the tour includes guided sightseeing in Beijing, Xi’an, and Shanghai with English-speaking specialist guides at local sights.

  • Is this tour suitable for solo travelers?

    Yes, this tour is operated in conjunction with a trusted partner, and you will join travelers from different operators, not solely On The Go, making it suitable for solo travelers.

  • What is the recommended amount for tipping the tour guide and driver?

    It is recommended to allow USD $6 per person per day for the tour guide and USD $3 per person per day for the driver. Tipping is an entirely personal gesture.

  • Are airport transfers included in the tour package?

    No, airport arrival and departure transfers are not included in the tour package.

  • What is the age policy for this tour?

    The age policy for this tour is 16+ if accompanied by an adult.

  • What should I do upon arrival in Beijing?

    Upon arrival in Beijing, you should make your own way to the start hotel for check-in. The rest of the day is at leisure.

  • What activities are planned for the first day in Beijing?

    The first day in Beijing is at leisure after you check in to the hotel.

  • What can I expect during the visit to the Terracotta Warrior Museum?

    During the visit to the Terracotta Warrior Museum, you will encounter the 'eighth wonder of the world,' an awe-inspiring army of silent statues offering a spellbinding glimpse into ancient China. You will also explore a workshop where these legendary terracotta figures are crafted.

  • What is the itinerary for the last day of the tour in Shanghai?

    On the last day in Shanghai, after breakfast and 12pm hotel check-out, you will need to make your own way to the airport for your onward flight.

  • What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?

    Ensuring our footprint is light and that the benefits of travelling reach the local communities you visit is paramount to us. We’re proud to say that when travelling with us, the large majority of your holiday funds remain within the countries you visit, supporting local economies at a grass roots level.

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    Since 1998

  • Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?

    With English-speaking tours, it's not a huge surprise that most on our travellers are from English-speaking countries or have English as their second language. Our group tours cater for everyone from 18 years old to 70+

  • Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

    Yes

Reviews of this operator

Nicola Hodgkinson (Google Reviewer)  

Recently returned from Greece, a...

07-May-2024

Recently returned from Greece, a 5 day tour with OTG. Unfortunately, I had a negative experience on day 2 where I needed local support to get me out of a tricky situation. Thank you to Alexandra Z from Hetco Tours in Athens for helping me continue on with the trip, to the Hotel Zafolia staffing team and to Danielle and team here in the UK for supporting me with the aftermath. Your kindness will not be forgotten and I will pay it forward. I've now booked 3 trips with yourselves and will continue to go back. Thank you all. Honestly, I am SO grateful. Blessings to you all. Nicola

Calvin  

Wonderful experience

05-Jan-2023

Jamal is our tour guide. Right from the start, he created a group chat in whatsapp and if any issues to make sure we contact him. He was on the ball with every issue thrown at him. Luggage being left behind, stragglers wondered off in a different path, hotel room etc. He explains the various site along our route to give us a better understanding of the local cultures. We had a great time, thanks to Jamal.

Trustpilot
Norma Sullivan  

Land of the Northern Lights 5 day tour of Iceland

10-Sep-2021

The Land of Northern Lights tour was a triumph! My tour of Southern Iceland was absolutely wonderful. The venues chosen, the timing allotted at each venue and the variety of things to experience was nearly perfect. Our guide, "Thor", was smart, amusing, full of history and anecdotal stories as well as being incredibly hospitable and helpful. This small group experience was my first, but not my last thanks to On the Go.

Trawls (Google Reviewer)  

On The Go Tours Sri...

05-Feb-2024

On The Go Tours Sri Lanka was an incredible experience that was made even better by our tour guide Akthar. He was incredibly knowledgeable about his country and he loved sharing it with us. The tour covers a wide range of activities so you can truly experience what Sri Lanka is all about. The beautiful 4-5 star hotels at the end of every day was an absolute bonus. Thanks for a great trip OTGT I’m sure this won’t be my last

Xtreme Floor Care (Google Reviewer)  

Traveled through Egypt with On...

30-Nov-2023

Traveled through Egypt with On the Go Tours, professional service, very informative and helpful tour guides. The choice of hotels was excellent... Definitely recommend this company

Gavin Harrigan  

King Tutankhamun 10 day tour of Egypt

16-Sep-2021

I have just returned from my tour with On The Go and it was an amazing trip! From arriving at the airport and meeting the OTG representative, everything was well organised and hassle free.  Our tour guide was Amir. He is awesome!! From the beginning he was so friendly and enthusiastic about showing us around Egypt, giving us loads of information at each place and time to explore ourselves. Learnt so much from him about this fascinating place, and he was always happy to answer more questions.   The trip itself was amazing. There's lots of travelling on this trip, but it's really not too bad, and the sights you see when you get to where you are going are worth it. I'm not a big fan of boats, but the Felluca ride across the Nile was pretty fun too.  On the first day I also did the optional tour of Cairo with Ahmed Helal - another excellent guide from OTG. It's worth doing this add on as you don't spend much time in Cairo, and you go to three very different places.  I'm so glad that I decided to do this trip. It was just ace.  If you're thinking about it too, you should probably just book it. And hopefully you get Amir as your guide.

Joyce Heitler (Google Reviewer)  

I would give this tour...

09-May-2024

I would give this tour group no stars if possible. The tour was not guaranteed but they did not inform me when I booked and they did not have enough people. Way after I booked they said I needed a doctors letter because I was over 70. Also way after booking I was informed I needed travel insurance. They knew my age when I booked. They would not refund my tour even though it was 4 months away.

Simla Patel (Google Reviewer)  

This company doesn’t deserve even...

26-Nov-2024

This company doesn’t deserve even 1 star. I would not recommend this company. There are hidden fees which means the cost of the holiday ends up being very expensive. We recently came back from our trip to China where it is not customary to tip in restaurants & hotel staff. Yet we had to make a payment upfront in cash to to the guide for more than £100. The hotel service was appalling. Just think £100 from each person. The trip was suppose to be a Tour yet we had to pay for all entrance fees. We complained about the poor condition of the hotels but no one responded to our emails to date. The after sales service is non existent. Do not use this company. Far far too expensive for what you get. Not competitive at all. They messed up our booking; repeatedly asked for the same information. We spent so much time correcting their errors. Very difficult to get hold of anyone because they all work in S Africa or New Zealand. Absolute nightmare

Sarah Paterson (Google Reviewer)  

Terrible tour of India. For...

27-Dec-2023

Terrible tour of India. For some reason On the Go hadn't realised that my room mate had booked her own room for the first night of tour. So the hotel in Delhi had tried to put me in her room after midnight, by wheeling in an extra bed. She went Crazy!! I then had to sit in hotel reception for hours. While the tour guide said he couldn't find me a room. Throughout the tour the guide consistently ask me and my room mate for money for my room, causing more friction between us. Don't book with this company had the worst experience ever. Go with Intrepid or G Adventure

brandy hoffman (Google Reviewer)  

I had used them once...

09-Aug-2023

I had used them once before and loved them. I decided to try them again for a Baltic tour not knowing that they put me on another Tour group- Baltic vision. Loved that tour but was not impressed they marked up the cost for me over 100%. I understand taking some for yourself because of paperwork, but over double the cost everyone else paid on the tour. Just double check before you book with them that you’re not over paying.

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Thursday - Friday

Jan 09, 2025 - Jan 17, 2025
$2405 $1684

Operator discount: -$722

Thursday - Friday

Feb 13, 2025 - Feb 21, 2025
$2405 $1684

Operator discount: -$722

Thursday - Friday

Mar 20, 2025 - Mar 28, 2025
$2455 $1719

Operator discount: -$737

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Apr 17, 2025 - Apr 25, 2025
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Operator discount: -$737

Thursday - Friday

May 08, 2025 - May 16, 2025
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Operator discount: -$737

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May 22, 2025 - May 30, 2025
$2455 $1719

Operator discount: -$737

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$2455 $1719

Operator discount: -$737

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Jul 03, 2025 - Jul 11, 2025
$2485 $1740

Operator discount: -$746

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Aug 14, 2025 - Aug 22, 2025
$2485 $1740

Operator discount: -$746

Thursday - Friday

Sep 04, 2025 - Sep 12, 2025
$2485 $1740

Operator discount: -$746

Thursday - Friday

Sep 18, 2025 - Sep 26, 2025
$2485 $1740

Operator discount: -$746

Thursday - Friday

Oct 09, 2025 - Oct 17, 2025
$2485 $1740

Operator discount: -$746

Thursday - Friday

Nov 06, 2025 - Nov 14, 2025
$2455 $1719

Operator discount: -$737

Thursday - Friday

Dec 18, 2025 - Dec 26, 2025
$2405 $1684

Operator discount: -$722

Prices last published on 23-Dec-2024

Book with Confidence

  • Low Deposit

    On The Go Tours requires a minimum deposit of 600 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of on the go tours charges.

    Up to 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 59 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.

    At 30 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

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