Spiritual and Modern China

Then, we’ll set out to explore the city. We’ll take a transfer to Wangfujing Street, a lively pedestrian and commercial area filled with shops and restaurants. Dinner will be included, followed by a return to the hotel.

We’ll enjoy a full-day guided tour, starting with a walk through the immense Tiananmen Square, one of the largest squares in the world. Next, we’ll visit the majestic Forbidden City, the most impressive architectural complex in China, where 24 emperors ruled for nearly 500 years. We’ll also visit Jingshan Park, home to Coal Hill, one of Beijing’s best-preserved imperial gardens. Climbing to the top of the hill, we’ll be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the Forbidden City—weather permitting. Lunch will be included. In the afternoon, we’ll experience local life with a tricycle ride through the traditional Hutong neighborhoods, where we can observe daily life, visit charming shops, and step inside a Siheyuan, a traditional courtyard house. We’ll then conclude our tour with a visit to the stunning Summer Palace, the former imperial retreat of the Qing Dynasty, renowned for its exquisite gardens and tranquil lakes.

We’ll arrive at this awe-inspiring architectural marvel, whose history spans over 2,000 years. Our visit includes a cable car ride up and down to one of the most scenic sections of the wall. You’ll have free time to explore, enjoy the commercial area, visit the Exhibition Center, and have lunch at your leisure. Later, we’ll visit the Temple of Heaven, one of China’s most important sacred complexes and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. To unwind after an exciting day, we’ll take part in a relaxing Tai Chi class and enjoy a soothing foot massage. We’ll bid farewell to Beijing with a traditional Peking duck dinner (included).

Traveling at 300 km/h, we’ll reach Taian in just two hours. This city, located at the foot of Mount Taishan, is home to one of the most sacred mountains in China. Upon arrival, we’ll visit the Dai Temple, a magnificent Taoist complex dating back to the 11th century. This temple marks the beginning of the traditional pilgrimage route up the mountain. Lunch will be included. Afterward, we’ll take a cable car up to the "Gates of Heaven" on Mount Taishan. The final stretch must be completed on foot, climbing its steep staircase alongside hundreds of pilgrims.

We’ll witness the opening ceremony at the Confucius Temple, a vibrant and colorful musical ritual (please note that this event may not take place on certain dates). Our visit includes entry to both the Confucius Temple and the Confucius Mansion, offering a deeper insight into the philosopher’s legacy.

Lunch will be included. Afterward, we’ll visit the impressive Underground Mausoleum of the Han Emperor, where we’ll be amazed by the terracotta army displayed in the museum—similar to the famous warriors of Xian, though on a smaller scale. Later, we’ll pass by the picturesque Lake Yunlong, a scenic spot in the heart of Xuzhou. Around 5:00 p.m., we’ll arrive at our hotel. After check-in, you’ll have free time to explore this dynamic commercial city at your own pace.

Arrival in this vibrant city of eight million residents, often regarded as one of the most pleasant cities in China. We’ll be captivated by the dynamic commercial life and modern energy of this metropolis. Our tour will take us to Purple Mountain, where we’ll visit the Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum, a tribute to the founding father of modern China. We’ll also explore the Lingu Temple, a picturesque site rich in history and cultural significance.

Arrival in this historic city, famous for its exquisite gardens, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Suzhou was once the world´s leading silk producer and has long been associated with beauty and refinement. Lunch will be included Our visit includes entry to the Garden of the Humble Administrator, a stunning example of classical Chinese landscape design. Afterward, you’ll have free time to stroll along the charming Pingjiang Road, a picturesque street lined with traditional shops, teahouses, and canals.

Our tour will begin in Pudong, Shanghai’s striking financial district, located across the Huangpu River. We’ll admire its futuristic skyline, including the iconic Pearl Tower, and take a stroll along the elevated walkways, offering breathtaking views of the modern skyscrapers. Next, we’ll board a local ferry to cross the river, allowing us to take in Shanghai’s impressive cityscape from the water while observing daily life along the bustling waterfront. Upon arrival, we’ll explore the Bund, home to a collection of grand 19th-century European-style buildings, a striking contrast to the modern skyline of Pudong. Our tour will continue in Shanghai’s Old City, where we’ll visit the Yuyuan Garden, a beautiful private garden built during the Ming Dynasty. Here, we’ll also an explanation of traditional tea, an integral part of Chinese culture. We’ll then pass through Xintiandi, one of the city’s most fashionable districts, known for its blend of historical charm and modern elegance. Lunch will be included. In the afternoon, we’ll visit Tianzifang, a former residential area famous for its narrow, labyrinth-like streets, lined with artisanal shops, trendy boutiques, and art galleries. We’ll conclude our tour with a final stroll along the Bund, appreciating its historical architecture and the European influence on the city’s past.