Classics · PRIVATE JOURNEY
Your first China story
History, great landmarks and time to get your bearings.
THE ROUTE AT A GLANCE
Time to get
to know a place.
Route sequence, not a geographic map. Transport is chosen after checking schedules and your preferred pace.
Your journey, day by day
A proposed private programme. The final order, transport and participation details are confirmed in your written proposal.
DAY 01Arrive in Beijing
+
Settle into your hotel after arrival. Meet your guide for a short orientation and keep the rest of the day flexible for jet lag.
OVERNIGHT · Beijing
DAY 02Read an imperial city
+
Explore the Forbidden City on a focused visit, subject to admission. Notice the courtyards, roof details and the way the palace expresses power. Leave time for lunch and a gentle neighbourhood walk.
OVERNIGHT · Beijing
DAY 03A day on the Great Wall
+
Travel to a suitable open section of the wall. Choose the walking distance and any cable-car arrangements around your mobility. Return to the city without adding another major attraction.
OVERNIGHT · Beijing
DAY 04Hutong lanes & everyday life
+
Explore a historic neighbourhood at walking pace. A tea or home-cooking experience can be arranged with a willing host. Keep the afternoon free or discuss a museum visit.
OVERNIGHT · Beijing
DAY 05Across the country by rail
+
Take a suitable train to Xi’an, allowing for hotel transfers and station time. After check-in, enjoy a short orientation rather than a packed sightseeing programme.
OVERNIGHT · Xi’an
DAY 06Warriors, people & clay
+
Visit the Terracotta Warriors with a guide, looking closely at individual figures and their manufacture. In a separate teaching workshop, try shaping a small clay figure; finishing and collection conditions are confirmed beforehand.
OVERNIGHT · Xi’an
DAY 07Inside the old city
+
Explore a section of the city wall and surrounding lanes. Choose a noodle-making session or a food walk, with dietary preferences discussed before the day.
OVERNIGHT · Xi’an
DAY 08Onward to Shanghai
+
Continue by the practical rail or flight option agreed in your proposal. Settle in, then take an easy walk by the Bund if timing and energy allow.
OVERNIGHT · Shanghai
DAY 09Old streets, a modern city
+
Explore the contrast between older neighbourhoods and the changing skyline. A garden or museum visit can shape the morning; leave part of the afternoon for your interests.
OVERNIGHT · Shanghai
DAY 10Departure, without a rush
+
Keep departure day clear of essential sightseeing. Arrange the transfer around your flight or train, with additional nights available by request.
ONWARD TRAVEL · ARRANGED AROUND YOUR CONNECTION
Make it your own
Change the pace, add a rest day or choose a different experience. Tell us about children’s ages, dietary needs and any access requirements.
Browse experiences ↗Comfort, pace & practical details
Accommodation is selected after your dates, preferred style and room arrangements are known. Train seats or berths, cruise cabins, luggage transfers and guiding languages are specified in the quote. We explain who leads each workshop and what you can actually take part in.
Before you decide
What is included?
A written quote will specify accommodation, transport, guiding language, admissions, meals and each experience. International flights, purchases and optional activities are not included unless explicitly listed.
How much does it cost?
Pricing depends on dates, group size, room arrangements, accommodation and selected activities. Request a written proposal rather than relying on an unconfirmed starting price.
Is this right for our family?
We assess children’s ages, activity suitability, journey times and room arrangements before proposing a family itinerary. Cycling, altitude, workshops and cruise facilities have individual conditions.
Can we choose another language?
Tell us your preferred guiding language. Availability and any supplements must be confirmed in your proposal. This website’s current edition is English.