



Beijing

Xi’an

Shanghai

Hanoi

Hoi An

Ho Chi Minh



About This Trip
China and Vietnam are two of the most dazzling economies growing in Asia. Influenced by the Sinosphere, Vietnam shares remarkable similarities with China in traditional culture, festive customs, and cuisine. Moreover, both countries boast splendid cultural heritages, abundant tourism resources, captivating natural landscapes, and unique local customs. This 15-day essential itinerary meticulously selects the most representative cities from both nations: Beijing, Xi’an, Shanghai in China, and Hanoi, Hoi An, Ho Chi Minh City in Vietnam, to lead you on an exploration of the essence of China and Vietnam.
This tour itinerary offers a panoramic view, inviting you to dive deep into the rich and diverse historical cultures of China and Vietnam. You’ll have the opportunity to immerse yourself in their unique local customs, indulge in authentic culinary delights, and engage in local activities. This extraordinary journey will not only enrich your travel experiences but also deepen your understanding of the two remarkable countries.
Highlights
- The well-preserved and spectacular Forbidden City
- Unforgettable experience of Gubeikou Great Wall Hiking
- The fantastic Acrobatic Show in Red Theater
- The world-famous and amazing Terracotta Warriors Army in Xi’an
- Towering skyline on the Bund in Shanghai and its bustling streets
- Traditional and interesting Hoi An’s ancient town
- Explore Mekong Delta with a traditional sampan canal ride
- Discover the essence of Saigon and its iconic landmarks
- Tasting the local authentic food
Tour Itinerary
Day 1 Arrive in Beijing
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.
Day 2 Beijing – Day Trip to Explore the Ancient Capital
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.
Day 3 Beijing – Day Trip to Mutianyu Great Wall
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.
Day 4 Beijing – Xi’an (by bullet train)
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.
Day 5 Xi’an – Day Trip to Explore Terracotta Amy and the Highlights of Xi’an
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.
Day 6 Xi’an – Shanghai (by plane)
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.
Day 7 Shanghai – Day Trip to Explore the Modern Metropolis
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.
Day 8 Shanghai – Hanoi (by plane)
Meals included: Buffet breakfast
Hotel: Decent 4-star or 5-star hotel in Hanoi (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 Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam, a “ Stunning Pearl ” in Southeast Asia. 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 explore the hidden charm of Vietnam.
Day 9 Hanoi – Day Trip to Explore the Highlights of Hanoi
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch
Hotel: Decent 4-star or 5-star hotel in Hanoi (downtown)
Today, spend a full day time to explore the highlights of the capital city, get to know its history and culture. The Mausoleum of Ho Chi Minh, a towering testament to the life and legacy of Vietnam’s iconic leader, stands proudly in Hanoi’s heart. Designed with a blend of Russian and Vietnamese architectural styles, it embodies the nation’s gratitude and admiration for Ho Chi Minh’s unwavering dedication to independence and unity. The solemn atmosphere and strict protocols underscore the profound impact Ho Chi Minh has had on Vietnam’s history and identity. It’s also a good place to know the history of Vietnam. The Temple of Literature is a historic complex dedicated to Confucianism and education. It serves as a prestigious shrine honoring scholars and Confucian thinkers, while also functioning as Vietnam’s first university, founded in the 11th century. You can admire its intricate carvings, peaceful gardens, and the Quoc Tu Giam, a museum showcasing historical artifacts related to Vietnam’s educational system. After taht, take a local traditional cyclo ride through the Old Quarter to know the daily life of Hanoians.End the day tour with the local famous Water Puppet Show.
Day 10 Hanoi – Danang – Hoi An
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch
Hotel: Decent 4-star or 5-star hotel in Hoi An (downtown)
Today, you will have leisurely morning on your own. Then, be picked up and transferred to the airport in Hanoi for your onward flight. Upon arrival in Da Nang, your local private tour guide and driver will greet you at the airport and transfer you to your hotel in Hoi An. The rest of the day, free and easy.
Day 11 Hoi An – Day Trip to Ancient Town
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: Decent 4-star or 5-star hotel in Hoi An (downtown)
In 1999, Hoi An was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List for the well-preserved traditional trading ports. Spend a full day to explore the Hoi An Ancient Town and its local lifestyle, immerse yourself into the local history and tradition.
Embark on a captivating walking tour through Hoi An Ancient Town, where your guide unveils key sites like the Japanese Covered Bridge, Fujian Assembly Hall, and the historic Tan Ky Old House. Step deeply into Vietnamese culture by visiting a nearby fishing village along the Thu Bon River, observing the fishermen’s daily routines. Experience a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to cast traditional nets and paddle a round-basket boat, mirroring local traditions. Do the locals do. Have a light seafood lunch on another boat, surrounded by breathtaking scenery.
Day 12 Hoi An – Da Nang – Ho Chi Minh
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch
Hotel: Decent 4-star or 5-star hotel in Ho Chi Minh (downtown)
Discover Hoi An’s countryside and its local foods by bicycle. Local foods in Hoi An are well known and enjoyed by the tourists once setting foot here. In Hoi An, these cuisines are very popular and sold everywhere in all streets. Moreover, these cuisines are considered as unique symbols for the culture and introduced to every tourist. We will ride to a local restaurant for Hoi An specialty – Cao Lau. We then bike through the countryside to a Tra Que Village. You will also learn how to make special “white rose” dumpling cakes with a local family and taste your products. Continue riding to Cam Nam to enjoy the Yin and Yang food such as: Banh Dap (“cracked or smashed rice pancake”), Che Bap (“corn and coconut sweet soup”).
Day 13 Ho Chi Minh – Day Trip to Explore the Highlights of Saigon
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch
Hotel: Decent 4-star or 5-star hotel in Ho Chi Minh (downtown)
Today, you will spend a full day time to immerse yourself in the essence of Saigon with a stroll through its iconic landmarks. Notre Dame Cathedral is a stunning architectural marvel from the French colonial era. This Gothic-inspired cathedral, with its towering spires and intricate stonework, serves as a testament to the city’s rich history and cultural heritage, captivating visitors with its timeless beauty and charm. Central Post Office, a testament to the city’s architectural prowess. With its elegant facade, intricate dome, and intricate ironwork, the post office exemplifies the blend of European and Asian influences that shaped Vietnam during the colonial period. Reunification Palace, is once the seat of power for South Vietnam’s government, now stands as a symbol of Vietnam’s reunification. This imposing structure, with its neoclassical architecture and grand columns, invites visitors to step back in time and explore the country’s turbulent history. War Remnants Museum, where the hulking relics of war machinery serve as a somber reminder of the devastation and sacrifice that shaped the nation’s history. Ben Thanh Market is your last stop today. As Vietnam’s largest indoor market, it provides a full range of Vietnamese specialty products and food.
Day 14 Ho Chi Minh – Day Trip to Mekong Delta
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch
Hotel: Decent 4-star or 5-star hotel in Ho Chi Minh (downtown)
After breakfast, continue your exploration to the renowned Mekong Delta. Embark on a scenic 2-hour drive from Saigon to the quaint town of Cai Be, where you’ll board the iconic Mekong Queen boat for an enchanting journey.
Start your excursion by stepping into a local 19th century ancient house, immersed in history and charm. As your boat glides through the bustling central business district, marvel at the vibrant floating market, a unique spectacle of commerce on water. Traverse the mighty Mekong River and make brief stops at local households to witness the artistry of traditional handicrafts.
Board on a sampan for a serene cruise through the narrow canals of an island paradise. Indulge in a leisurely stroll along the shady village backroads, admiring the lush orchards brimming with fruit. As the sun begins to set, make your way back to Saigon, replete with unforgettable memories of Cai Be’s charm and Mekong’s allure.
Day 15 Departure from Ho Chi Minh
Today, it will be the end of your discovery journey to China and Vietnam. Carrying with you the unforgettable memories of your unique exploration to the amazing land, head for a pleasant homeward or onward journey.


















