Meals included: Null

Hotel: Decent 4-star or 5-star hotel in Beijing (centrally located)

Nihao! Welcome to Beijing, the political and cultural center of China. Upon arrival, our local guide will meet with you at the Arrival Hall of Beijing International Airport. Then be transferred to your hotel in the centrally located. Free and easy for the rest of the day. Prepare to begin your cultural discovery journey to the amazing countries in East Asia.

Meals included: Buffet breakfast, Chinese Lunch, Peking Roasted Duck Dinner.

Hotel: Decent 4-star or 5-star hotel in Beijing (centrally located)

After breakfast, begin your discovery journey from the centrally located of Beijing. You will walk on Tian’anmen Square, the biggest city square in the world. Covering 440,000 square meters, it has witnessed many important historic events taking place here. Then discover the Forbidden City(closed on Monday), one of the five most famous palaces in the world where the 24 emperors of Ming and Qing dynasties lived and ruled for over 500 years.

Lunch will be served with local Chinese meal.

This afternoon, drive to visit the largest and best preserved imperial garden, The Summer Palace, which was built in late Qing Dynasty as the summer resort for the Empress Dowager Cixi. It was built according to the famous West Lake and designed with the technique of private gardens in South of Yangtze River.

Tonight, we will arrange you with the local specialty with the best Peking Roasted Duck Dinner as the welcome dinner.

Special activities: Walking tour on Mutianyu Great Wall, Acrobatic Show at Red Theatre

Meals included: Buffet breakfast, Chinese Lunch

Hotel: Decent 4-star or 5-star hotel in Beijing (centrally located)

Today, continue your trip to explore the world famous Great Wall (Mutianyu Section) which is listed among the 8 wonders in the world as well as the World Cultural Heritage. Great Wall is one of the most important military defense facilities in ancient China, which is used to limit the movement of enemy cavalry, protect national security and the stability of people’s production and life.The section is the highlight of the Great Wall. You will take a leisurely cable car (round way) up and down the Great Wall, and explore the incredible great building of human being.

Lunch is arranged with the local Chinese meal.

After Lunch, drive back to the downtown. On the way, you will take a glimpse of the “Bird Nest” and “Water Cube”which are the representative buildings of Olympic Games Beijing 2008 from your car. Late this afternoon, we will arrange you with the fantastic and interesting Acrobatic Show at the famous Red Theatre. Acrobatic is considered to be the quintessence of Chinese culture with over 2,000 years. After the show, drive back to your hotel.

Special activity: Leisurely rickshaw tour in Beijing Hutong

Meals included: Buffet breakfast, Chinese Lunch

Hotel: Decent 4-star or 5-star hotel in Xi’an (centrally located)

After breakfast, we will take you to visit the famous Ditan Park, a little slice of how locals live. Normally the locals exercise every day — it’s a good way to know local life. We then drive to visit the famous Temple of Heaven, the landmark of Beijing, which was used to pray for good harvest and hold the Heaven Worshiping Ceremony by the emperors in Ming and Qing dynasty. We then take you on a leisurely rickshaw tour in Beijing Hutong. You will have the chance to see the original residence of the local people and experience their lifestyle. Here is where we make time for lunch.

Then drive to the railway station for the bullet train to the ancient legendary city Xi’an (around 5.5 hours). It is absolutely an unforgettable travel experience of A Tale of Two Cities in One Day. Enjoy the comfortable and modern facilities on the fastest train in China as well as the landscape on the way. Once there, be picked up and transferred to the hotel.

Meals included: Buffet breakfast, Chinese Lunch

Hotel: Decent 4-star or 5-star hotel in Xi’an (centrally located)

Today start your full day tour to explore the highlights of the ancient city. Firstly visit the well-known Terracotta Warriors and Horses. The Terracotta Army was created to guard Emperor Qin Shihuang’s tomb and to protect him in the afterlife. It is estimated that there are over 7,000 life-size Terra-cottar figures and horses buried here.

Lunch will be served with local Chinese meal.

This afternoon, visit the landmark of the city-Big Wild Goose Pagoda. Built in the Tang Dynasty, the square pyramid stands at 60 meters high and seven-story tall. It was built to restore the Buddhist scriptures brought by the famous Monk Xuanzang. The story had been rewritten to a famous classic novel, <The Journey to West >. After that, visit the Grand Mosque.With a 1300-year history, it is a time-honored and large-scale architecture complex, which shows the interpenetration between Islamic belief and Chinese culture.

Special activity: Cycling on Ancient City Wall

Meals: Buffet breakfast, Dumpling Banquet at De Fa Chang Restaurant.

Hotel: Decent 4-star or 5-star hotel in Shanghai (close to the Bund)

After breakfast, drive to visit the Ancient City Wall, which was built in Ming Dynasty with a history over 600 years and might be the largest and best-preserved city wall in China. You will take a interesting cycling tour on the massive city wall. Then visit the Square of Bell and Drum Tower where you can see the well-preserved ancient Bell and Drum Tower of Ming Dynasty(Outside visiting only). After that, stroll around the famous Muslim Quarters which is a renowned culinary and cultural street in Xi’an, and also a representative of Xi’an’s local charm. Continue to visit the Former Residence of Family Gao which is famous for its well-preserved typical historical residence with courtyard. You will also enjoy a traditional puppet show here.

Lunch will be served the famous Dumpling Banquet at De Fa Chang Restaurant which was established in 1,936. It’s one of the most famous dumpling restaurants in Xi’an.

After the tour, drive to the airport for the departure flight to financial center of China, Shanghai. Once there, be picked up and transfer to the hotel.

Meals included: Buffet breakfast, Lunch at Lvbolang Restaurant

Hotel: Decent 4-star or 5-star hotel in Shanghai (close to the Bund)

After breakfast, you will start your full day tour to explore the metropolis. Firstly visit the famous Shanghai Museum(closed on Monday), one of the TOP 3 museums in China, which features the large collection of bronze articles and rich collections. It’s a good place to learn the history and culture of China. Then stroll around the romantic place the Bund which is a famous waterfront with 52 various buildings of different architectural styles. You can enjoy a beautiful skyline of the city here.

Lunch will be served with the authentic Shanghai cuisine at the famous Lvbolang Restaurant.

Then visit the famous Yu Garden which is the most famous private garden in Shanghai built in 1559 A.D. It is reputed as the “Stunning Pearl” of Shanghai. Stroll around the close-by bustling Yuyuan Bazaar where you can do some shopping with the little gifts.You will also taste the delicious street food-Long Xiang Baozi (steamed stuffed-bun). After that, stroll around the famous Tianzifang, a very popular site for tourists in Shanghai, which was renovated from the local Stone-Arched House into the trendy boutiques stores, bars, restaurants as well as art studios. After the tour, drive back to the hotel.

Meals included: Buffet breakfast

Hotel: Decent 4-star or 5-star hotel in Osaka (downtown)

This morning, drive around Lujiazui Financial Zone which is considered to the “Wall Street of China” as many international banks and financial organizations gathered here.Then visit the New landmark of Shanghai, Shanghai Tower. With the total height of 632m, it is ranked No.1 tallest building in China. You will take a high speed elevator up the 118 F Observation Hall where you can get a great bird view of the metropolis.

This afternoon, transfer to the airport for the onward flight to Osaka, the second largest city in Japan. Upon arrival, our local representative will greet you at the airport and transfer you to the hotel. The rest of the day, free and easy on your own. Prepare to start your exploration of the essence of Japan.

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch

Hotel: Decent 4-star or 5-star hotel in Osaka (downtown)

Today, you will spend a full day time to explore the highlights of Osaka. Savor the serenity of Osaka Castle Park, a historic oasis nestled amidst the vibrant modernity of the city. Embrace the tranquility as you wander through its lush grounds, a testament to Osaka’s storied past. Then delve deeper into the city’s rich history at the Osaka Museum of History, where a captivating array of exhibits unfolds Osaka’s transformation from ancient times to the present day. Let the carefully curated displays transport you through the city’s vibrant history. After wards, admire the intricate beauty of Japanese woodblock prints, known as Ukiyo-e, at the Kamigata Ukiyo-e Museum. Immerse yourself in the artistic mastery of these vibrant prints, each one a window into Japan’s cultural heritage and aesthetic sensibilities.Transfer to the vibrant heart of Osaka at Dotonbori, where the city’s energy pulses with bright neon lights, tantalizing culinary delights, and non-stop entertainment. Savor the sights, sounds, and flavors that make this district a must-visit destination. Finally, step into the world of the ninja at Ninja Time. Slip into a ninja costume, master their stealthy skills, and participate in an exhilarating training exercise that combines physical agility with strategic thinking. This unique experience will leave you with lasting memories and a newfound appreciation for the legendary warriors of Japan.

Meals included: Breakfast

Hotel: Decent 4-star or 5-star hotel in Kyoto (downtown)

After breakfast, continue to visit the Osaka Museum of Housing and Living, a museum dedicated to showcasing the past lifestyles of Osaka citizens. Through intricate architectural and street models, it recreates the neighborhoods and living conditions of Osaka from the Edo period to the Showa era, enabling visitors to immerse themselves in the way of life across different historical eras. The museum boasts the only preserved model of Osaka city from the Edo period in Japan, making it a treasure trove of historical and cultural significance. Then have a leisurely walking around Kuromon Ichiba Market and have a glance at the local life of today and try some local authentic food (expense on your own).

Say goodbye to Osaka in the afternoon and embark on Shinkansen to the cultural capital of Japan, Kyoto. Upon arrival, drive to check-in at your hotel. For the rest of the day, easy and free by your own.

Special activity: Kimono-wearing experience

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch

Hotel: Decent 4-star or 5-star hotel in Kyoto (downtown)

Today, you will explore the traditional wonders of Kyoto, a city where history and culture reside in every corner. Firstly savor the resplendent beauty of Kinkaku-ji Temple, Kyoto’s golden icon cloaked in shimmering gold leaf, its reflection gracefully dancing on the tranquil waters of the surrounding pond. Step back in time at Nijo Castle, renowned for its extravagantly adorned interiors and ingenious “nightingale floors,” which emit a melodious chirp underfoot, alerting guards to any unwelcome visitors. Afterwards, taste the flavors of Kyoto’s culinary delights at Nishiki Market, where you can indulge in an array of specialty dishes and browse through traditional Japanese ingredients, each a testament to the region’s rich culinary heritage. Immerse yourself in a local custom with a kimono-wearing experience, feeling the regal weight of this traditional Japanese garment. Conclude your enchanting day with a visit to Kiyomizu-dera, a serene UNESCO World Heritage Site known as the Pure Water Temple, where you can bask in panoramic views and find solace amidst its peaceful atmosphere.

Meals included: Breakfast

Hotel: Decent 4-star or 5-star hotel in Tokyo (downtown)

After breakfast, continue to visit the Osaka Museum of Housing and Living, a museum dedicated to showcasing the past lifestyles of Osaka citizens. Through intricate architectural and street models, it recreates the neighborhoods and living conditions of Osaka from the Edo period to the Showa era, enabling visitors to immerse themselves in the way of life across different historical eras. The museum boasts the only preserved model of Osaka city from the Edo period in Japan, making it a treasure trove of historical and cultural significance. Then have a leisurely walking around Kuromon Ichiba Market and have a glance at the local life of today and try some local authentic food (expense on your own).

Meals included: Breakfast

Hotel: Decent 4-star or 5-star hotel in Kyoto (downtown)

As the capital of Japan, Tokyo has numerous places worth exploring. Besides futuristic skyscrapers and bustling trendy shopping districts, the city still preserves ancient shrines, palaces, and temples well, which are all witnesses to the development and splendor of this ancient city. This journey begins at Meiji Shrine, built to commemorate the first modern emperor of Japan. Stepping into this precinct, you will temporarily escape the hustle and bustle of the city and immerse yourself in a serene atmosphere created by traditional Japanese buildings and beautiful forests. Then, head to the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace, a delightful park filled with blooming flowers, ancient walls, and the elegant Suwano tea house, where you can admire the exterior view of the Imperial Palace. Afterward, visit the 1,400-year-old Senso-ji Temple, the oldest temple in Tokyo Metropolis and also the center of Asakusa District. Surrounded by many small shops featuring Japanese characteristics, this temple is one of the few scenic spots with traditional Japanese style in this modern city of Tokyo.

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch

Hotel: Decent 4-star or 5-star hotel in Tokyo (downtown)

After breakfast, embark on a scenic two-hour drive to the picturesque Fuji Five Lakes region. Here, indulge in either a serene cruise across the mirror-like waters of Lake Kawaguchiko or ascend the Kachi Kachi Ropeway, also known as the Mount Fuji Panoramic Ropeway, for breathtaking views and photo opportunities of Mount Fuji—Japan’s iconic snow-capped volcano, its highest peak, and a deeply revered symbol in Japanese culture. With favorable conditions, you might even be blessed with the rare sight of “upside-down Fuji,” where the mountain’s reflection graces the still lake’s surface. After the tour, drive back to your hotel in Tokyo.

Meals included: Breakfast

Today, it will be the end of your cultural discovery journey to China and Japan. Bid farewell to the East Asia, carrying with you the unforgettable memories of your unique exploration to the amazing land. We wish you a peaceful and pleasant homeward or onward journey.