Best China Golden Triangle Private Tours: 10-Day Beijing, Xi’an & Shanghai with Suzhou Excursion

Summary

Day 1 Beijing Arrival
Day 2 Beijing: Tian'an men Square, Forbidden City, Temple of Heaven
Day 3 Beijing: Great Wall, Summer Palace, Bird's Nest & Water Cube
Day 4 Beijing--Xi'an by train
Day 5 Xi'an: Terracotta Warriors, Big Goose Pagoda, Grand Tang Dynasty Ever Bright City
Day 6 Xi'an: Morning Market, Ancient City Wall, Bell Tower, Muslim Quater
Day 7 Xi'an--Shanghai by Flight
Day 8 Shanghai: Yuyuan Garden, The Bund, Tianzifang, Huangpu River Cruise, Nanjing Road
Day 9 Shanghai-Suzhou-Shanghai: Humble Administrators Garden, Tiger Hill, Hanshan Temple, Pingjiang Road
Day 10 Shanghai Departure

Day 1 Beijing Arrival

Welcome to Beijing, the capital of China! As the nation's political, cultural, and educational hub, Beijing is China’s second-largest city after Shanghai by urban population. Renowned for its grand palaces, ancient temples, tranquil parks, majestic gates, and imperial tombs, the city offers a rich tapestry of history and heritage. It’s also home to world-class art, prestigious universities, and vibrant local culture. Notably, Beijing made history as the first city to host both the Summer (2008) and Winter (2022) Olympic Games.

Upon your arrival, our friendly Beijing local driver will greet you at the airport exit, holding a welcome sign reading "Your Way Holiday". You’ll then be transferred directly to your hotel. The rest of the day is yours to relax and recover from jet lag.

Day 2 Beijing

Your day begins as our professional English-speaking guide greets you in the lobby of your Beijing hotel, holding a sign that reads “Your Way Holiday.” After a warm welcome and brief introduction, you’ll set off in a comfortable, air-conditioned private vehicle to begin a full-day cultural journey through Beijing — the political heart and historic soul of China.

Your first stop is the Tian’anmen Square, the symbolic center of modern China and the largest city square in the world. Standing in the vast open space, surrounded by monumental landmarks like the Great Hall of the People, the National Museum, and the Mausoleum of Mao Zedong, you’ll feel the powerful presence of China’s history and political transformation. Your guide will provide insights into the square’s significance in both ancient and contemporary times, including key historical moments such as the founding ceremony of the People’s Republic in 1949.

From here, you’ll walk directly into the awe-inspiring Forbidden City, also known as the Palace Museum — the largest and best-preserved imperial palace complex in the world. Once home to 24 emperors during the Ming and Qing dynasties, this UNESCO World Heritage Site offers a glimpse into the grandeur and rituals of imperial China. With your guide leading the way, you’ll explore the palace’s iconic courtyards, majestic gates, and elegant halls, including the Hall of Supreme Harmony, the Palace of Heavenly Purity, and the beautifully tranquil Imperial Garden. Along the way, your guide will uncover the hidden symbolism of dragon motifs, imperial yellow roof tiles, and the strictly ordered layout that reflects ancient Chinese cosmology and political hierarchy.

After your deep dive into China’s imperial past, you’ll pause for a relaxing lunch at a carefully selected local restaurant. Here, you’ll enjoy a sampling of northern Chinese dishes — perhaps including crispy spring rolls, stir-fried seasonal vegetables, hand-pulled noodles, or the famous Peking duck served with steamed pancakes and hoisin sauce. Your guide will be happy to explain each dish and accommodate dietary preferences to ensure a comfortable and flavorful experience.

In the afternoon, your cultural journey continues at the Temple of Heaven, an architectural masterpiece and spiritual sanctuary once used by emperors to pray for good harvests. Unlike the symmetry of the Forbidden City, the Temple of Heaven reflects a cosmic order of its own: circular halls symbolizing Heaven and square bases representing Earth. You’ll visit the magnificent Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests with its triple-gabled roof and vibrant blue tiles, then explore the Echo Wall and Circular Mound Altar, learning how ancient emperors performed intricate rites here to maintain harmony between Heaven and Earth.

As you stroll through the surrounding park, you’ll also witness a vibrant slice of daily life in Beijing — locals playing chess, dancing, practicing tai chi, or simply enjoying the fresh air. This balance between solemn history and everyday leisure makes the Temple of Heaven not only a cultural treasure but also a beloved gathering place for the community.

At the end of your enriching day, your private driver will escort you back to your hotel. On the way, your guide will be happy to recommend optional evening activities such as a traditional Peking Opera performance, a kung fu show, or local dining spots to continue your exploration of Beijing.

Day 3 Beijing

After breakfast at your hotel, set off with your professional English-speaking guide and private driver to begin your second day exploring the magnificent contrasts of imperial grandeur and modern achievement in Beijing.

Your morning begins with a scenic drive through the northern suburbs of the capital to the Great Wall at Mutianyu, one of the most breathtaking and less touristy sections of this iconic monument. Enveloped by rolling, forested hills and punctuated with well-preserved watchtowers, Mutianyu offers a striking balance of natural beauty and architectural might. Ascend via cable car or chairlift to reach the ancient ramparts — here, you can stroll along the weathered stone pathways, pause at vantage points once used by imperial sentinels, and soak in sweeping views of the surrounding mountains. Your guide will walk you through the fascinating history of the Wall’s construction, the dynasties behind its expansions, and the cultural symbolism of this colossal fortification, a project that spanned centuries and defined the northern boundary of ancient China.

After descending (by cable car or an optional toboggan ride), enjoy a lunch at a local countryside restaurant. This meal highlights the flavors of northern China, including dishes such as stir-fried seasonal vegetables, crispy tofu with scallions, hand-wrapped dumplings, and savory meat stews — all freshly prepared and served in a cozy, rustic setting.

In the afternoon, return to the city to visit the breathtaking Summer Palace, once the lakeside retreat of Qing Dynasty emperors. Stroll along the Long Corridor, with its brilliantly painted beams depicting scenes from classical Chinese legends, and explore the peaceful Kunming Lake area, the Marble Boat, and the ornate Tower of Buddhist Incense. Your guide will share stories of imperial leisure, the influence of Empress Dowager Cixi, and the sophisticated symbolism behind the garden’s layout — a masterful blend of natural beauty and architectural harmony.

Conclude your day with a visit to the modern marvels of the Olympic Green, where the striking Bird’s Nest and Water Cube stand as testaments to China’s global ambition. Though not entering the buildings, you’ll admire their futuristic designs up close and learn how these architectural icons played a central role in the 2008 Summer Olympics, and again during the 2022 Winter Games. It’s a photogenic finale to a day that spans millennia of Chinese achievement.

As the sun begins to set, return comfortably to your hotel with wonderful memories of Beijing’s rich past and dynamic present. Your guide will be happy to provide dinner suggestions or help plan your next day.

Day 4 Beijing to Xi'an by train

Today, your Beijing driver will transfer you to the high-speed railway station at a suitable time according to your train schedule. You will take the high-speed train to Xi’an, where your Xi’an driver will be waiting for you at the station exit, holding a sign that reads 'Your Way Holiday', and will escort you to your hotel.

Day 5 Xi'an

Your day in Xi’an opens not with sightseeing, but with a quiet sense of awe — as you stand before ranks of silent guardians that have kept watch for over two millennia. At the Terracotta Warriors and Horses Museum, you won’t just witness a world-renowned archaeological site — you’ll enter the vast subterranean court of China’s first emperor, Qin Shi Huang. With every step through the massive excavation halls, your guide will help you trace the emperor’s audacious dream: to command an eternal army in the afterlife. The life-sized soldiers, no two faces alike, remain a breathtaking testament to craftsmanship, ambition, and ancient state power. Your visit includes access to the original dig sites, where new secrets are still being uncovered.

Lunch is no less of a cultural journey. In a locally loved eatery tucked away from tourist crowds, you’ll be introduced to the culinary soul of Shaanxi. Hand-stretched biangbiang noodles, their name as complex as their texture, arrive steaming and fragrant; roujiamo — crisp, fire-baked bread split and stuffed with slow-cooked spiced meat — offers a flavorful glimpse into Xi’an’s street food roots, blending Central Asian and Han Chinese influences.

In the afternoon, history shifts from imperial power to spiritual devotion. The Big Wild Goose Pagoda, with its dignified, tapering silhouette, rises from the Buddhist temple grounds like a beacon of inner clarity. Here, your guide will narrate the extraordinary pilgrimage of monk Xuanzang, whose 17-year overland journey to India and back brought Buddhist scriptures and ideas to China, shaping its cultural and intellectual landscape for centuries. This is not just a pagoda; it’s a monument to inquiry, perseverance, and the open exchange of thought across civilizations.

As twilight arrives, you’ll transition from ancient stone to modern imagination at Grand Tang Dynasty Ever Bright City — not a theme park, but a bold reimagining of the glories of Chang’an, once the cosmopolitan capital of the world. Here, illuminated Tang-style façades glow beneath the night sky, while bronze sculptures and street performances animate stories of poets, princesses, and warriors. Your guide will help you navigate beyond the photo spots — pointing out poetic inscriptions, hidden symbolism in statues, and details that connect past and present in unexpected ways.

By the end of the evening, as city lights shimmer and traditional melodies drift through the air, you’ll return to your hotel with not just photos, but a deepened understanding of Xi’an — a city where dynasties rise again with every step.

Day 6 Xi'an

Your second day in Xi’an begins with a cultural immersion at a bustling local morning market, where the rhythms of daily life reveal the authentic soul of the city. As you meander through rows of fresh produce, fragrant spices, handmade snacks, and daily essentials, you’ll witness how local residents interact and shop, offering a glimpse into their everyday lifestyle. The lively scenes, combined with the rich aroma of steamed buns and sizzling skewers, create a vivid and unforgettable start to your day.

Next, ascend the impressive Ancient City Wall, one of the oldest and most complete city walls in all of China. Originally built in the 14th century during the early Ming Dynasty, this majestic structure extends over 13 kilometers and was once a vital defense system for the ancient capital. From atop the wall, enjoy sweeping views of both the historic neighborhoods within and the modern city beyond. For a more immersive experience, you can choose to walk or rent a bicycle to ride along a section of the wall, soaking in its historic atmosphere and architectural grandeur.

Afterward, visit the iconic Bell Tower, which stands as the symbolic heart of Xi’an. Constructed in 1384, this beautifully preserved wooden tower once marked the geographical center of the ancient city. Marvel at its traditional Chinese architecture, with upturned eaves, golden rooftop, and vibrant paintings. It offers a striking contrast between the old and the new, surrounded by busy streets yet exuding timeless elegance. From the tower’s upper level, you can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding city.

Lunch will be arranged at a highly rated local restaurant, where you’ll indulge in a flavorful sampling of Shaanxi cuisine. Signature dishes such as biangbiang noodles, spicy cumin lamb, and crispy fried dumplings will introduce you to the bold, hearty flavors of northwestern China. Your guide will also share the stories and origins behind these traditional dishes, enriching your culinary experience.

In the afternoon, venture into the lively Muslim Quarter, a historic neighborhood where Islamic culture has thrived for over a millennium. This area is famous not only for its street food but also for its fascinating blend of cultures, architecture, and traditions. Explore hidden alleys lined with timeworn brick walls, visit the beautiful Great Mosque (one of the oldest in China), and browse stalls selling everything from handmade sugar figurines to intricate silver jewelry. The bustling atmosphere, friendly vendors, and tantalizing aromas make this walk a sensory delight and a memorable cultural highlight of your trip.

After a day full of discovery, you’ll return to your hotel in the late afternoon. Enjoy a relaxing evening at your leisure—whether it's trying more local dishes, catching a cultural performance, or simply reflecting on the rich history you’ve encountered in this remarkable ancient capital.

Day 7 Xi'an fly to Shanghai

Today, your Xi’an driver will transfer you to the airport at the appropriate time based on your flight schedule. You will then fly to Shanghai, where your Shanghai driver will be waiting for you at the exit, holding a sign that reads "Your Way Holiday," and will escort you back to your hotel.

Day 8 Shanghai

Your day begins as your professional guide and driver greet you at your hotel lobby. Sit back and relax in your private, air-conditioned vehicle as you set off on a full-day exploration of Shanghai — a dazzling blend of tradition and modernity.

Your day begins as your professional English-speaking guide and private driver greet you in the lobby of your Shanghai hotel, holding a personalized sign for easy recognition. Set off in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle to explore the dynamic blend of old-world charm and futuristic ambition that defines Shanghai.

Your first stop is Yuyuan Garden, a beautifully preserved example of classical Chinese garden architecture dating back to the Ming Dynasty. Step into a world of elegance as you wander through intricately designed pavilions, winding corridors, sculpted rockeries, serene koi ponds, and age-old trees. As your guide explains the rich symbolism behind each architectural element and landscape feature, you’ll gain insight into traditional Chinese philosophies of harmony and balance. Just outside the garden, immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Yuyuan Bazaar, a lively market teeming with street food vendors, antique shops, and stalls offering everything from handcrafted fans to silk scarves. It’s the perfect place to engage your senses and pick up unique souvenirs.

Next, journey to The Bund, Shanghai’s most iconic waterfront district. Take a leisurely stroll along the promenade, where the architectural legacy of colonial-era banks and trading houses stands proudly on one side, while the ultra-modern skyline of Lujiazui — with its soaring skyscrapers like the Oriental Pearl Tower and Shanghai Tower — rises across the river. Your guide will share captivating stories of Shanghai’s transformation, from a humble fishing village to an international metropolis, shedding light on how history and modernity coexist in this ever-evolving cityscape.

From there, delve into the bohemian spirit of Tianzifang, a creative hub nestled in the labyrinthine lanes of the former French Concession. This artsy neighborhood is known for its distinctive Shikumen architecture — a blend of Western and Chinese elements. As you meander through the alleys, discover hidden art studios, charming cafes, boutique galleries, and quirky shops. Your guide will introduce you to the area’s cultural significance and recommend must-visit spots, whether you're into design, photography, or simply people-watching in a unique setting.

Around noon, take a break to enjoy a delicious local lunch at a carefully selected Shanghai restaurant. Savor regional specialties like red-braised pork belly (hong shao rou), xiao long bao (soup dumplings), and crispy river shrimp, prepared with seasonal ingredients and served in a cozy setting. Your guide will be on hand to explain the origins of each dish and ensure a satisfying culinary experience.

After lunch, head to Nanjing Road, Shanghai’s bustling shopping artery that stretches from the Bund all the way to Jing’an Temple. Whether you're interested in international fashion brands, traditional Chinese apothecaries, or just soaking up the energy of locals and performers, this area offers a fascinating snapshot of consumer culture in one of China’s most fast-paced cities. Enjoy some free time here for browsing or simply people-watching amid the colorful crowds.

In the late afternoon, make your way to the pier for a Huangpu River Cruise, one of the most relaxing and scenic ways to admire Shanghai’s skyline. From the open-air deck, witness the full spectrum of the city’s architecture — from grand neoclassical buildings on the western bank to futuristic steel-and-glass towers on the eastern side. As the sun begins to set and the city lights come to life, the panoramic views provide a perfect finale to your day.

Your tour ends with a comfortable ride back to your hotel. Along the way, your guide will be happy to offer recommendations for evening entertainment, dining options, or nightlife spots should you wish to continue your Shanghai adventure into the night.

Day 9 Suzhou

Your day begins as our professional English-speaking guide and driver pick you up from your hotel in Shanghai. From there, you’ll be escorted to the train station, where you’ll board a comfortable high-speed train for a short, scenic journey to Suzhou — a city celebrated as the “Venice of the East” for its classical gardens, peaceful canals, and silk heritage. Upon arrival, your Suzhou guide will be waiting for you at the high-speed train station exit, holding a “Your Way Holiday” sign for easy recognition, ready to begin your immersive exploration of this historic and picturesque city.

Upon arrival, your first stop is the Humble Administrator’s Garden, the largest and most famous classical garden in Suzhou. Dating back to the early 16th century during the Ming Dynasty, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a breathtaking masterpiece of traditional Chinese landscape design. Covering nearly 13 acres, the garden is a harmonious blend of nature and architecture, featuring serene lotus ponds, zigzagging bridges, charming pavilions, and intricately designed rockeries. As you stroll along its winding corridors and through bamboo groves and flowering trees, your guide will interpret the garden’s poetic layout, philosophical inspirations, and the deeper meanings behind its elegant structures and symbolic scenery — offering a window into the refined lifestyle and aesthetic values of ancient Chinese scholars.

Next, visit Tiger Hill, one of Suzhou’s oldest and most storied landmarks, renowned for its rich blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. Rising gently above the surrounding cityscape, this scenic hill has been a popular destination for over 2,500 years. At its summit stands the iconic Yunyan Pagoda — often called the “Leaning Tower of China” — a seven-story brick structure dating back to the 10th century that tilts at a dramatic angle, making it one of Suzhou’s most photographed monuments. As you wander through bonsai gardens, shaded stone paths, and moss-covered stairways, your guide will bring to life the legends of King He Lu, who is believed to be buried on the hill, and the sword-testing rock said to bear the marks of ancient blades. With its poetic charm and timeless atmosphere, Tiger Hill offers a captivating glimpse into Suzhou’s storied past.

After your morning explorations, enjoy a relaxing lunch at a local restaurant, where you’ll savor authentic Suzhou cuisine. Known for its delicate flavors and subtle sweetness, the regional specialties may include dishes such as sweet and sour Mandarin fish, squirrel-shaped mandarin fish, or seasonal freshwater vegetables.

In the afternoon, your exploration continues at Hanshan Temple — a place where time seems to soften and history lingers in the hush of ancient bells. Tucked beside the Grand Canal, this centuries-old sanctuary gained literary immortality through the verses of Tang poet Zhang Ji. But beyond its poetic fame, Hanshan Temple reveals a quiet strength: stone corridors weathered by pilgrims’ footsteps, shadowed courtyards where incense drifts in the breeze, and a bell tower whose solemn chime once marked midnight prayers. As your guide walks you through its layered past, you’ll discover not just a monument of faith, but a refuge of the spirit — where echoes of monks, emperors, and poets still seem to whisper among the ginkgo trees.

Your final stop of the day leads you to the poetic embrace of Pingjiang Road — a timeworn ribbon of stone flanking Suzhou’s ancient canal. Here, Ming- and Qing-style dwellings lean gracefully over rippling waters, while moss-covered bridges arc gently between past and present. As you wander along its cobbled lanes, the scent of roasted tea leaves mingles with the distant strains of Kunqu opera drifting from tucked-away stages. Your guide will illuminate the quiet stories behind the hand-lettered shop signs and artisan studios, inviting you to slow down and savor the rhythm of old Suzhou — a city that still breathes in its own timeless cadence.

As the day winds down, your guide and driver will escort you back to the train station for your return journey to Shanghai. Upon arrival, a private transfer will take you comfortably back to your hotel. 

Day 10 Shanghai Departure

Today, your Shanghai driver will pick you up from your hotel and transfer you to the airport at the appropriate time according to your flight schedule. Sit back and relax during the comfortable ride, as we ensure you reach the airport smoothly and on time. Wishing you a pleasant journey and safe onward travels!

Price Per Person in US Dollars

Price Includes 1. Cozy Ride: Enjoy the comfort and spaciousness of our air-conditioned car, offering scenic views. 2. Bilingual Expert Guide: Benefit from a personalized experience with a guide fluent in your language, catering to your needs. 3. Entrance Fees: Access all attractions and activities mentioned in the itinerary without worrying about additional entrance fees. 4. Seamless Transfer: Enhance your experience with convenient hotel or train station pickup and drop-off service. 5. Connect Seamlessly: Stay connected with complimentary onboard WiFi, allowing you to share your experiences in real-time. 6. Complimentary Water: Receive a complimentary bottle of water for each person, keeping you refreshed throughout your journey. 7. Travel Agency Liability Insurance: Benefit from coverage under our travel agency liability insurance, providing added protection and peace of mind during your trip.

Price Excludes 1. Personal Expenses: This includes phone bills, laundry, additional tours, postage, and any entertainment fees not covered in the itinerary. 2. Meals: While meals are not included, our guide will recommend the best local food spots, giving you the chance to explore and choose based on your preferences. (Average cost per person for a regular meal at local eateries: 40RMB/6USD-80RMB/12USD) 3. Tips: Tips are not mandatory but are recommended for excellent service. If you feel satisfied with the service, you may consider leaving a tip. 4. Insurance: Insurance coverage for personal loss, illness, or damages incurred during your trip is not included. 5. Optional Activities: Any optional activities listed in the itinerary are not included in the tour fees, allowing you to choose and participate based on your preferences.