Discover China, reimagined for families. Explore the Golden Triangle cities (Beijing, Xi’an, and Shanghai) for SLOW discovery, HANDS-ON learning, and genuine family BONDING. Educational but fun! Fun for the kids, stress-free for the parents.
Step into 3,000-year adventure for time travel. Bridge the gap between the silent warriors of the past and the neon skylines of the future. We turn history into playground.
AOT Family Advantage:
We prioritize "Hands-on History." Our AOT team adds paper-cutting, Tai Chi, terracotta pottery making, and Hanfu experiences for families. Enjoy private transport, expert scholar guides, kid-approved dining, flexible schedule.

| Day | Place | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| 1–4 | Beijing | Tiananmen Square, Forbidden City, Jingshan Park, Hutong Rickshaw Trip, Family Visit & Hands-on Activities, Temple of Heaven, Mutianyu Great Wall (Toboggan Ride), Universal Studio Beijing or (National Museum of China, Qianmen Street, Summer Palace (Boating), CBD Skyline; optional: Beijing Roasted Duck dinner |
| 5–6 | Xi’an | Terracotta Warriors, mini terracotta warrior workshop, Xi’an Ancient Wall, Muslim Quarter; Optional: Hanfu experience & Grand Tang Everbright City |
| 7–10 | Shanghai | Shanghai Museum, Shanghai Tower, Yu Garden & Bazaar, The Bund, Wukang Road (Wukang Mansion); optional: Shanghai Circus World; Free day ideas: Shanghai Disneyland / Zhujiajiao Water Town |
Welcome to Beijing! Your China family adventure begins the moment you land. Your local guide will meet you at Beijing Capital (PEK) or Daxing (PKX) airport with a personalized sign and escort you to your hotel in a comfortable, private vehicle.
After checking in, the rest of the day is yours to relax. Shake off the jet lag with a leisurely neighborhood stroll or enjoy a quiet family dinner to rest up for the days ahead.
Evening Exploration for Families:


Morning: Imperial History
Tiananmen Square: Start at the world’s largest public square, the symbolic heart of modern China. Your guide will handle all security checks, allowing you to focus on the history. It is the perfect spot for a family photo with the iconic Tiananmen Rostrum in the background.
The Forbidden City: Step through the Meridian Gate into the world’s largest imperial palace. We skip the dry history lessons. Instead, we lead your family on a "scavenger hunt" to find architectural secrets and hidden bronze lions. Our guides focus on the fascinating lives of the young emperors to keep children of all ages curious and engaged.
Jingshan Park: Take a gentle 10-minute walk to the top of the park. From Wanchun Pavilion, you will be rewarded with a breathtaking, unobstructed view of the entire Forbidden City. Seeing the sea of golden-tiled roofs helps the whole family grasp the sheer scale of the palace you just explored.
Afternoon: Hutong Life & Heritage
Experience the soul of old Beijing with an immersive Hutong cultural experience.
Different activities may have varying material fees; please let us know your preference in advance.
After your workshop, escort back to your hotel to rest and refresh.




Morning: Temple of Heaven
Start your morning at the Temple of Heaven. This UNESCO site is where emperors once prayed for good harvests. The park is just as special as the architecture; watch locals practice Tai Chi and traditional dance—a perfect window into Beijing’s daily life.
Want to learn Tai Chi? Let us know, and we can arrange a lesson with a local master.
Family Fun: Challenge the kids to test the Echo Wall and Triple Sound Stones. Their clever acoustic designs are a fun, interactive history lesson.
Afternoon: Mutianyu Great Wall
Drive to the Mutianyu Great Wall, famous for its lush scenery and manageable crowds.
Our Recommended Route: Chairlift Up & Toboggan Down
Take a chairlift to the 6th watchtower. Explore the eastern route toward Watchtowers No. 4 and No. 1. These are the most scenic spots for family photos. Descend via the famous 1,580-meter toboggan ride. You control the speed, making it thrilling yet safe. (Note: Children under 10 or below the height requirement must ride with an adult.)
If you prefer a slower pace, we can arrange a fully enclosed cable car for a round-trip on the western route. This is perfect for families with younger children or grandparents. Please let us know your preference!
Evening: Peking Duck Dinner
Wrap up your day with a classic Peking Duck dinner. The crispy skin, tender meat, and the interactive process of wrapping the duck with scallions and sweet sauce in a thin pancake is always a hit with kids. It is a delicious, fun way to end the day!




Today, your family have two distinct ways to experience Beijing.
Plan A: Universal Studios Beijing
Your private driver will drop you off at the park entrance for a full day of fun. (Note: This is a self-guided experience).
This park features two world-firsts: the Kung Fu Panda Land of Awesomeness and the world's largest Transformers Metrobase. You will need about 8 hours to explore all seven themed lands.
Must-Try Rides:
Pro-Tip: Don’t miss the Universal on Parade and the magical Nighttime Lights at Hogwarts Castle. Your driver will meet you at the exit at the end of the day.
Plan B: History & Modernity
A guided, educational tour that connects China’s 5,000-year history to its modern-day pulse.
Morning: Treasures & Traditions
Enjoy an immersive Ming-Qing themed dining experience. You can even try on traditional costumes for photos before lunch!
Afternoon: Imperial Gardens
Summer Palace: Visit this UNESCO World Heritage Site, once the royal retreat from the summer heat. Stroll the famous Long Corridor, admire the temples, and take a relaxing boat ride across Kunming Lake.
Late Afternoon: Beijing CBD: End the day in the Central Business District. Witness the city's futuristic side, including the CITIC Tower (China Zun) and the iconic CCTV Headquarters (nicknamed "the Big Pants").




After breakfast, your private driver will take you to the station for your high-speed train to Xi’an. The journey takes about 4.5 hours—a perfect time for the family to relax or watch the changing countryside roll by.
Upon arrival, our local Xi’an team will meet you at the platform and escort you to your hotel.
Evening Recommendation: Tang Dynasty Everbright City (Optional)
After a short rest, head out to experience the vibrant nightlife of Xi’an.
Hanfu Makeover: Step back in time with a family-friendly makeover. Try on traditional Hanfu (Tang-style costumes) for a unique and memorable family photo session.
Grand Tang Everbright City: Once the lights turn on (around 7:30 PM), explore this massive, open-air pedestrian street. It feels like a living museum of the Tang Dynasty. Enjoy the dazzling musical fountain, interact with street performers, and soak in the festive atmosphere. It is the perfect way to capture the spirit of ancient China!


Morning: The Terracotta Army
After breakfast, your guide and driver will take you to the Terracotta Warriors and Horses Museum.
Step into the underground army of China’s first emperor. For kids, this is a giant, real-life "historical puzzle." Challenge them to spot the unique facial expressions, hairstyles, and even the tread on the soldiers' shoes—it’s like a massive game of "Where’s Waldo" in clay. We will guide you to the best vantage points in Pit 1 to avoid the crowds and capture the perfect family photos.
AOT Family Highlight: DIY Mini-Warrior Workshop
Go beyond the viewing platforms. In a nearby workshop, kids can roll up their sleeves and use ancient techniques to mold their own clay warrior. They will learn how to press clay into molds and carve the details, creating a personalized souvenir to take home.
Afternoon: The Ancient City Wall
Return to downtown Xi’an to explore the Ancient City Wall. Spanning 14 kilometers, this is the world’s best-preserved ancient wall.
Standing 12 meters high, it serves as an "elevated playground" for families. It is a safe, traffic-free space where kids can run freely while parents enjoy the contrast between the historic inner city and the modern skyline.
Late Afternoon: Muslim Quarter
Dive into the sensory feast of the Muslim Quarter. The vibrant atmosphere, colorful stalls, and friendly vendors offer a wonderful introduction to local street food culture.
Visit Gao’s Grand Courtyard to relax in a traditional Ming-style garden. Watch a Shadow Puppet Show, often called "ancient cartoons." Using light, leather puppets, and music to tell folk legends, this is a magical, low-tech entertainment break that kids absolutely love.


After breakfast, your private driver will escort you to the airport for your flight to Shanghai (approx. 2.5 hours). Get ready to trade ancient history for the futuristic skyline of China’s most cosmopolitan city.
Upon arrival, our local team will meet you at the airport and transfer you to your hotel. Spend the afternoon settling in, or take a stroll to explore the vibrant streets of your neighborhood.
Evening Recommendation: Shanghai Circus World (Optional)
Looking for evening activities? We recommend the ERA: Intersection of Time show at Shanghai Circus World. It is a world-class acrobatic performance that blends traditional Chinese arts with modern technology, music, and lighting. It is fast-paced, visually stunning, and guaranteed to keep the whole family on the edge of their seats!


Morning: History & Heights
Start your morning by diving into Shanghai’s history at the Shanghai Museum. We focus on the Ancient Bronze Gallery, home to the "King of Bronzes," the Da Ke Ding. Kids will be fascinated by the intricate dragon patterns and the "secret codes" (ancient inscriptions) carved 3,000 years ago.
Next, shift to the future with a "Vertical Journey" to the Shanghai Tower. Ride the world’s fastest elevator to the 118th-floor Observation Deck. Standing in the clouds, you’ll get a bird’s-eye view of the winding Huangpu River—a perspective that leaves both kids and parents in awe.
Afternoon: Gardens & Bazaar
Cross the river to Yu Garden, a classic Ming Dynasty masterpiece. Kids love navigating the Nine-Turn Bridge - legend says it was designed to confuse ghosts, who can only walk in straight lines!
After the garden, dive into the bustling Yuyuan Bazaar for Xiaolongbao (Soup Dumpling) Challenge. Kids will be amazed by the "magic" of finding soup inside a dumpling. Just remember the golden rule: sip the soup first! It’s a delicious, interactive lunch the whole family will love.
Afternoon: The French Concession
Escape the skyscrapers for the tree-lined streets of the Former French Concession. Stop for a photo at the iconic Wukang Mansion, which looks like a giant ship anchored on the corner. This trendy, pedestrian-friendly area is perfect for grabbing artisanal gelato, browsing quirky boutiques, and soaking in the leisurely pace of local Shanghai life.
Late Afternoon: The Bund
Enjoy family walk along The Bund. As the sun sets and the lights flicker on, watch the city transform into a neon wonderland. On one side, you have the majestic colonial buildings—the "Gallery of World Architecture." On the other, the glowing, space-age skyline of Pudong. It is the perfect, safe space for a relaxed stroll to celebrate the final night of your great China journey.




Today is yours to design. Whether you crave high-octane thrills or a peaceful cultural escape, we have curated two perfect options for your family:
Option 1: The Magic of Shanghai Disneyland
As the largest Disney park in Asia, Shanghai Disneyland blends classic storytelling with cutting-edge innovation. Divided into seven immersive lands, it offers a world-class experience. Pro-Tip: Explore the park counter-clockwise to stay ahead of the crowds.
Must-See Attractions:
Option 2: Zhujiajiao Water Town "The Venice of Shanghai"
Located 48km from the city, this 1,700-year-old village is a tranquil escape into China’s past. It is the perfect place for a family "slow-travel" day.
Family Highlights:
Need help getting around? We can arrange private transfers for your Disneyland adventure, or provide a full guided tour and transfer for your trip to Zhujiajiao Water Town. Let us know how we can help!




Enjoy a final, relaxing breakfast at your hotel. Depending on your flight schedule, your private driver will meet you in the lobby to assist with your luggage and provide a stress-free transfer to the airport.
Thank you for choosing Asia Odyssey Travel to guide your China Family Tour. It has been our pleasure to host your family, and we look forward to welcoming you back for another adventure in the future. Safe travels!


It is very simple to book a private China tour. Select the tour you are interested in, and click "Make an Enquiry for Free". Tell us your demands and likes while submitting the form.
During this process, you don’t need to pay immediately. After sending us your requirements, one of our professional travel experts will get back to you within 0.5 to 24 hours. When all the information has been confirmed, then you make the deposit. Please feel free to contact the travel expert directly if you have any questions prior to booking.
The above itinerary is a sample that most travelers prefer. However, the tour can be fully customized based on your likes, interests, and budget.
If you want to extend this tour, just tell us your favored destinations and things to do. Our professional travel experts will redesign the trip totally for you and your group at the best price.
In-city Transfer: You will travel in a private, spacious, comfortable, and air-conditioned vehicle with an experienced driver.
Inter-city Travel: We use domestic flights (economy class) or high-speed trains (second class seat, usually less than 6 hours).
Arrival/Departure: Local guides and drivers will pick you up at the airport or train stations and escort you directly to your hotel.
“B” (Breakfast): Included at your hotel each morning.
“L” (Lunch): Arranged at designated tourist restaurants approved by the local administration, ensuring good sanitary conditions. Your guide will assist with ordering.
“D” (Dinner): Usually excluded, giving you the chance to taste authentic local food and snacks at your own pace.
Special Diets: If you are vegetarian, halal, kosher, or have gluten-free requirements, please let us know before booking. We will do our best to accommodate you.


A good night's sleep is essential during your China tour. In our private tours, you have the flexibility to choose your preferred hotel class—whether it's luxury 5-star, comfortable 4-star, or economic 3-star accommodations.
We carefully select hotels in prime locations, situated close to vibrant commercial streets or major tourist attractions. All our partner hotels maintain long-term relationships with us and are equipped with essential amenities including windows, air-conditioning, hot water, showers, and Wi-Fi (with the exception of basic conditions at Mount Everest) to ensure a comfortable stay.
The hotel staff are proficient in English and dedicated to providing high-quality service. Should you have any special requirements during your stay, they are always available to assist you to ensure a truly pleasant experience.





























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