10 Days Guangzhou to China's Golden Triangle Tour: Shanghai Xian Beijing

Néih hóu! Welcome to Guangzhou, the capital of Guangdong Province. Renowned as a major trading and cultural hub in southern China, its culture is deeply rooted in both its ancient history and its role as a port city, which led to its blending of local and foreign influences, creating a cultural symbol that's uniquely its own. Guangzhou is also a birthplace of Lingnan Culture, Cantonese Dialogue, Cantonese Cuisine, Cantonese Opera, etc. Upon your arrival at the airport/train station in Guangzhou, the tour guide and driver will meet and greet you at the exit, and then escort you to the well-selected hotel in downtown Guangzhou. The rest of the day is free on your own so you can have a good rest for the jet lag or explore by yourself around your hotel.

Arrival Ideas:

Guangzhou, being a major hub, is effortlessly reachable via air or efficient high-speed rail. Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport is a major international hub. Direct flights to Guangzhou are available from a plethora of Chinese cities such as Beijing, Xian, Shanghai, Chengdu, and more Guangzhou South Railway Station and Guangzhou Railway Station are the main hubs for high-speed trains connecting Guangzhou to other major cities of China. Moreover, the high-speed train network connects Guangzhou with major destinations like Hong Kong (about 1 hour), Shenzhen (0.5-1.5 hours), Guilin (2.5-3.5 hours), Guiyang (4-6.5 hours), Beijing (8-10 hours), Shanghai (7-8.5 hours), Chengdu (9-10 hours), Xian (8-9 hours), Hangzhou (6-7.5 hours), among others.

Free Time Ideas:

You are welcome to ask your tour guide for some useful tips to spend your free time based on your time and interest.

After breakfast, your guide will take you to visit the highlights of Guangzhou. Firstly, you will visit Chen Clan Ancestral Hall（陈家祠), a representation of the traditional Lingnan architecture and culture. The clan concept in the Lingnan region (which covers Guangdong and Guangxi provinces, and parts of Fujian) is very strong, and people attach great importance to the worship and memorial of their ancestors. The ancestral hall is the place where people worship their ancestors and the carrier of the clan culture. The Chen Clan Ancestral Hall stands as the largest, best-preserved, and most exquisitely decorated ancestral hall-style architecture in China, earning it the title of the "Jewel of Lingnan Architectural Art". This majestic hall was collectively financed and constructed by the Chen clans from all 72 counties of Guangdong province and was fully completed in 1894. Spanning an impressive 15,000 square meters, it showcases the grandeur and prominence of Guangdong's predominant surname, Chen. However, the true marvel that has etched the hall's name in the annals of architectural history is its unparalleled decorative artistry. The hall showcases the "Three Carvings" (San Diao) - stone, brick, and wood carvings; the "Two Moldings" (Liang Su) – ceramic and lime sculptures; and additionally, the intricate cast ironwork and exquisite color paintings, together recognized as the "Seven Wonders" (Qi Jue). Each element, be it a wooden panel, a brick wall, or a stone pathway, is embellished with designs and motifs teeming with symbolism and folklore. Additionally, the Chen Clan Ancestral Hall houses the Guangdong Folk Art Museum, where you can witness traditional Guangdong crafts such as ivory carvings, jade sculptures, Guangdong embroidery, and Guangdong colored ceramics, etc.

Then follow in the footsteps of the local “Old Guang” residents, and take a leisurely walking along scenic Lychee Bay (荔枝湾). Its name was derived from the abundant lychee trees that once lined its banks, bearing sweet fruit each summer. Once the backyard garden of wealthy merchants in Xiguan, the bay is now a serene water town in the heart of the city. As you meander along the bay, you will soak in the surroundings with age-old banyan trees lining its shores and rickety wooden boats gently drifting on its calm waters, bordered by aged buildings and temples. You will also encounter several historical bridges, each with its unique architecture and backstory, and come across the quintessential "Xiguan Big Houses" and other traditional Cantonese architectures, showcasing the opulence of Guangzhou's bygone era.

Then, your next destination to Lychee Bay Grand Theater (荔枝湾大戏台). This theater serves as a venue for public benefit performances, to promote and preserve traditional Cantonese opera art forms. If your timing is right, you might be fortunate enough to catch a live performance. Nestled alongside Lychee Bay, the theater exudes a unique charm where the melodious chirping of birds harmoniously intertwines with the soulful rhythms of Cantonese opera echoing from the stage. Just a short distance away is the Lychee Bay Museum (荔枝湾博物馆), which showcases the unique cultural landscapes, folk customs, and historical narratives of Lychee Bay. Within its confines are three major exhibition areas. Notably, the Xiguan Folklore Hall is transformed from a quintessential Xiguan grand mansion. Through authentic household furnishings and scene displays, it partially recreates the traditional archetype of a Xiguan house, offering a close glimpse into the lifestyle, cultural ambiance, and daily scenarios of Xiguan residents of yesteryears.

Afterward, make your way to Yongqing Fang. Yongqing Fang（永庆坊） is located on the historically rich Enning Road (恩宁路), which boasts the longest and most intact qilou (骑楼) street in Guangzhou. The qilou, a hallmark of Guangzhou architecture, features a continuous covered walkway on the ground level with residential spaces above. This design, combining shopping and sheltered pedestrian access, epitomizes the city's blend of commerce and community. Post-renovation, Yongqing Fang manages to retain the vintage charm of old Guangzhou's Xiguan flavor, all the while infusing modern commercial artistry into its fabric. Strolling down Yongqing Fang, you're immediately embraced by a confluence of the old and the new. Rows of well-preserved, traditional Xiguan-style houses line the street, their facades exuding old-world charm, while their interiors house a myriad of trendy boutiques, art galleries, craft shops, and coffee joints, bringing a touch of contemporary urban chic to the historic surroundings.

Lastly, your guide will accompany you to the Huacheng Square（花城广场）

Today is free for you until your guide accompany you to the airport for your flight to Shanghai.

Nihao! Welcome to Shanghai, China’s most internationalized and vibrant city! Shanghai's long-term fusion of Eastern and Western cultures has contributed to Shanghai's unique culture. Upon your arrival at the airport in Shanghai, the tour guide and driver will meet and greet you at the exit, and then escort you to the well-selected hotel in downtown Shanghai.

First, head to Yu Garden, the most celebrated classical Chinese garden hidden in the bustling downtown area of Shanghai, where you can appreciate the beauty of a Jiangnan water town ! Yu Garden was a private garden of the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) with a history of over 460 years, was built in 1559 by Pan Yunduan (潘允端) for his father to enjoy his retired life. You will see the winding paths and changing scenery, the plants and ponds, the brick carvings, stone carvings, clay sculptures, and wood carvings in the garden, all designed with great craftsmanship. On the way to Yu Garden, you will pass by the iconic Jiuqu Bridge (Nine-Bend Bridge/Zigzag Causeway) and the Huxin Pavilion (Mid-lake Pavilion, built in the Qing Dynasty, 1616-1912). According to Chinese Fengshui, the zigzag causeway is designed to thwart spirits, who can only journey in straight lines. As you enter Yu Garden, you can explore various beautifully crafted dragons hidden in the buildings, count them, and learn more about the Chinese dragon totem from your guide.

Later, explore Yuyuan Bazaar (Chenghuangmiao Market) outside Yu Garden which is a vibrant Shanghai Old Street where you can try Shanghai’s local snacks such as Xiaolongbao (Nanxiang Steamed Bun Restaurant小笼包), Pan-Fried Pork Buns (Fried Dumplings生煎包), Soup Dumplings (灌汤包), and Won-ton Soup (上海馄饨). You can also buy some traditional Chinese handicrafts and artworks for souvenirs here.

After lunch, you can take a walk from Nanjing Road to the Bund, which is less than a 2 km walk. Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street is one of the iconic attractions of Shanghai, known as the "Number One Commercial Street in China". It serves as a window to Shanghai's openness to the world and a paradise for shoppers from both domestic and international locations. Nanjing Road is the perfect place to experience century-old Chinese time-honored shops. Walking from Nanjing Road East to the Bund, you will have the feeling of traveling back to the 1930s and 1940s. As the Top 1 Place to Visit on the Shanghai Bucket List, the Bund is the best spot to view the Oriental Pearl TV Tower (a symbol of Shanghai) and the three skyscrapers of Lujiazui. Located on the bank of the Huangpu River and renowned as “An Exhibition of International Buildings”, the Bund is a collection of 52 buildings representing various international architectural styles. Since 1844 (Qing Dynasty), foreign banks, trading companies, clubs, and newspapers have gathered here, showcasing the former glory of the "Wall Street of the Far East" (远东华尔街).

Then, you will take a walk to the highest building in Shanghai - the Shanghai Tower. It features a dramatic 120-degreetwist from its base to its peak. Take the world's fastest lifts (traveling at 64km/h) to the "Top of ShanghaiObservatory" located on the 118th floor, 546 meters above ground level. Here, you'll have the unparalleled opportunityto enjoy a 360-degree panoramic view of modern Shanghai and also look down upon the Oriental Pearl TV Tower (a culturallandmark of Shanghai), Jin Mao Tower (a traditional Chinese pagoda-like structure with a modern style) and the ShanghaiWorld Financial Center (the third tallest building in China and the fifth tallest in the world). From Shanghai Tower,you can also get a bird's eye view of the Bund and the Nanjing Road you had just visited before from another side of theHuangpu River.

After breakfast, your guide will greet you in the hotel lobby and accompany you on a tranquil stroll throughthe French Concession, which is well known as the "Paris of the Orient" with refined andgraceful allure. This historic district is renowned as the earliest, largest, and most prosperous concession in modernChina, representing the epitome of Shanghai's trendiest, most stylish, and sophisticated aspects. French planetree-lined pathways, European ambiance, literary figures' former residences, popular restaurants, and cafes combine tocreate a truly delightful exploration.You will first have the pleasure of meandering along thecaptivating Wukang Road, which boasts 14 excellent historical buildings, exemplifying thequintessential garden-style residential complexes that characterize the French Concession. As you revel in thesurroundings, be sure to marvel at the architectural masterpiece that is Wukang Mansion, acreation of the acclaimed architect Ladislaus HUDEC from Curry & Co. This exquisite edifice, built in 1924,introduced the concept of exterior corridors to Shanghai, showcasing both innovation and timeless beauty. Along the way,you will also have the opportunity to visit notable attractions such as the romantic Romeo's Balcony and the Former Residence of Ba Jin, a famous Chinese modern writer wholived here and wrote representative works such as "Family" "Spring" and "Autumn".

Later,transfer to Xintiandi, a bustling place that seamlessly blends Shikumen architecture with modern urban fashion style. It offers a comprehensive introduction to the local Shikumen (stone-gate house) architecture, along with enticing dining and shopping options. This upscale entertainment and shopping complex is modeled on traditional “Long Tang” (弄堂, alleyway) homes and stands as the pioneering development in the city, demonstrating the commercial viability of preserving historical architecture. Enjoy a visit to the Shikumen Open House Museum, showcases the Shikumen lifestyle of the middle-class families in Shanghai during the 1920s and 1930s. The house consists of front and back sections, with two floors and a total of eight rooms, including a "courtyard", "pavilion room”, "kitchen" and more. Rather than calling it a museum, it feels more like a cozy home of old Shanghai.

If time permits, take a leisurely stroll along Tianzifang, the most authentic Shanghai-style lane with a bourgeois atmosphere. Here, you'll find old alleyways, cozy bars, cafes, rooftop restaurants, artist studios, and various creative boutiques. It is filled with the essence of old Shanghai, featuring a variety of traditional shops selling vintage pocket watches, qipao dresses, paper fans, snowflake cream, and more. It is the perfect place to truly experience the unique charm of life in the alleyways of old Shanghai.

Then you will head to the airport for your flight to Xian (about 2.5 hours). Welcome to Xian, the capital of 13 ancient China dynasties! Upon your arrival in Xian, the local guide and driver will greet you at the exit of the airport, and then escort you to your hotel in Xian downtown area. Enjoy some free time on your own after the hotel check-in.

After breakfast, drive about 40 km to the Terracotta Warriors Museum (Museum of Qin Terra-cotta Warriors and Horses). Here, you can discover the Terracotta Warriors and Horses: an army of around 8,000 soldiers, 130 chariots, 520 horses, and 150 cavalry entirely made of baked clay or terracotta. This Terracotta Army has silently stood guard over the soul of China's first emperor, Qin Shihuang, for more than 2,000 years. Until an accidental local farmer digging a well in 1974 struck upon one of the greatest archaeological discoveries in the world. Upon stepping into this "underground military museum," you will encounter two awe-inspiring shocks. The first is the magnitude of the archaeological marvel before you: thousands of life-sized clay soldiers, horses, and chariots arranged in battle formations. The second shock is that the faces of thousands of Terracotta Warriors are still vivid, despite the passage of more than 2,000 years. Each figure is unique, with distinct postures, hairstyles, and armor, making them seem to come back to life in the next moment.

During your visit, an knowledgeable guide can take you to highlights of the museum, including Pit One, Pit Two, Pit Three and provide valued explanations and insights that you might not get from simply observing the sculptures on your own. Afterward, you will have a rare opportunity to create your own miniature Terracotta Warrior under the guidance of a local potter. This will allow you to appreciate the craftsmanship and techniques of the Qin Dynasty as well as gain a deeper understanding of how terracotta warriors were made.

After lunch, drive back downtown to visit the Ancient City Wall. Xi'an is one of the few cities in China where the imposing old city walls still stand. Built in 1370 during the Ming dynasty, the magnificent 12-meter-high walls, form a rectangle with a perimeter of 14 kilometers. To get an idea of Xi'an's former grandeur, take a leisurely walk on the wall. Each step here is a chance to resonate with the echoes of history that the stones reverberate. Or cycling ( optional ) the full extent of the wall offers a rewarding panoramic view of the city - a tangible contrast between the old and new, and a testament to Xi'an's historical significance and modern vibrancy. Once you've delved into the city's historical narrative, don't forget to indulge in the delicious food and experience the vivid local life. The Muslim Quarter is a paradise mixed with different local snacks and Muslim culture, and you can surely taste the most authentic local food there. Don't miss the Great Mosque, an architectural gem that beautifully blends Islamic and Chinese design styles.

After breakfast, head to Giant Wild Goose Pagoda which is one of Xi'an's most recognizable landmarks and a symbol of the magnificence of the Tang Dynasty, This seven-story pagoda, standing in the tranquil Da Ci'en Temple, is one of China's best examples of a Tang-style pagoda (squarish rather than round). It was completed in AD 652 to house Buddhist sutras brought back from India by the monk Xuan Zang. His travels inspired one of the best-known works of Chinese literature, Journey to the West. While at the Giant Wild Goose Pagoda, you'll also have the opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture by trying on Hanfu (traditional Chinese clothing), and capture memorable moments in Hanfu.

Following is a visit to the Shaanxi History Museum to enhance your understanding of the region's rich and diverse history. Regarded as "the Pearl of ancient dynasties and home to Chinese treasures," it has a collection of 130,000 historical artifacts, providing visitors with a miniature overview of a thousand years of Chinese history and the splendid ancient cultures of the past. Enjoy an educational visit while exploring historical relics ranging from bronze ware from the Western Zhou Dynasty and terracotta figures to gold and silverware and murals discovered in Tang tombs.

After the tour, you will be transferred to the train station for your high-speed train to the next destination - Beijing. Upon arrival in Beijing, your guide will meet you at the train station and escort you to your hotel. The rest of the day is free on your own so you can explore by yourself around your hotel.

Today you will spend the whole day exploring the ancient citadel Beijing through China’s famous landmarks, epic imperial grandeur and royal gardens.

After breakfast, your guide will pick you up at your hotel and then head to Tian’anmen Square, which is the world’s largest public square and also the symbol of China. It has witnessed many big events in China over the past decades and from here you can take good pictures of Tiananmen Gate showing on CCTV News every day.

Walk across the square and you will visit the might and splendor of the awe-inspiring Forbidden City, the world’s largest palace complex and one-time home to 24 emperors of China. Listed as a world heritage site, Forbidden City has about 500 years’ history, and served as the political and ritual center of China during the Ming (1368-1644) and the Qing (1644-1911) dynasties. With over 8,728 rooms, the Forbidden City is not only China’s largest and best-preserved collection of ancient buildings, but also a city within the city, like the Vatican in Rome. Enter through Meridian Gate and visit along the central axis to ensure you won’t miss any highlighted palaces. You can admire its brilliant architecture and numerous ancient art treasures while listening to your guide and learning more about the emperors’ stories hidden inside the Imperial Palace. Later, take another 15-minute walk up to Jingshan Park, where you can have a magnificent panorama of modern Beijing and princely views over the russet roofs of the Forbidden City.

In this afternoon, drive to the “Museum of Royal Garden” - Summer Palace, which used to be the resort for royal families to flee summer heat. The grounds, temples, gardens, pavilions, lakes, bridges, gate-towers, and corridors are a marvel of landscaping. Enjoy the leisure walk and take your time to appreciate the imperial architectures, hilltop views, and beautiful lakes, which offer a pastoral escape into the landscapes of traditional Chinese painting.

Recommended Optional Activity: You can try the famous Peking Roasted Duck at Quanjude this evening.

In this morning, you will head northwest of Beijing (about 1.5-2 hours’ drive, 73km) to the Great Wall at Mutianyu. The Great Wall boasts a history over 2,000 years and stretches more than 3,000 miles across several provinces of northern China, making it one of the most impressive ancient masterpieces on the planet. Mutianyu Great Wall is connected with the Jiankou Great Wall in the west and the Gubeikou Great Wall in the east. Mutianyu is the longest and best fully-restored Great Wall with fewer tourists and is also famed for its 23 Ming-era watchtowers and stunning views. Take the cable car up to the 14th watchtower and then enjoy the memorable hiking time on the wall while visiting its western route. With the green pines and cypresses covering the surrounding area, and the winding wall standing majestically on the vast land, you will capture the most stunning natural scenery in this section. Challenge yourselves while climbing up to the 20th watchtower where you could fulfill your Great Wall dream. Cherish the chance and take photos as many as you like!

After the once-in-lifetime experience, head back to downtown Beijing and have the chance to take photos with the exterior of the Bird's Nest (Beijing National Stadium) and Water Cube (Beijing National Aquatics Center). They were both designed for the 2008 Beijing Olympics and used for the 2022 Winter Olympic Games. After that, transfer back to your hotel and have a good rest tonight.

This morning you will head to Temple of Heaven. Located in Beijing's Tiantan Park, the Temple of Heaven is much bigger than the Forbidden City and smaller than the Summer Palace. As a World Heritage, the Temple of Heaven (Taoist temple) is also known for its rigorous symbolic layout, peculiar structure, and magnificent decoration. The Temple of Heaven used to be a place to offer sacrifice to Heaven by 22 Chinese emperors twice a year for good harvests. You can learn more about the grand praying ceremony there, as well as observe the amazing designs such as the Echo Wall and the Triple Sound Stones. Nowadays, it is also a park for local people to do morning exercise and you are welcome to join them.

If there is more time, you can also enjoy the relaxing time exploring the ordinary local life through the old Hutongs. Take a rickshaw tour to travel through the narrow alleys with many featured shops standing on both sides.

Then, it is time to end your 10-day Guanzhou Shanghai Xian Beijing tour. Your guide will escort you to the airport/train station for your flight or high speed train to your next destination.

Thank you for choosing Asia Odyssey Travel for your China tour, and we are always here working for you and hope to see you again for your next trip to China/Asia.