13 Days Northern China Tour: Beijing, Datong, Pingyao, Xi'an & Harbin

Arrive in Beijing, where your guide or driver will meet you at the terminal holding a name board, help with your luggage, and provide a private transfer to your city-center hotel. During the ride, your guide will introduce the days ahead and answer any questions about the trip. After check-in, take time to unpack and recover from your journey at your own pace. The evening is left free, giving you the flexibility to rest or enjoy a gentle first outing, perhaps a stroll through the nearby streets, a meal at a local dumpling restaurant, or a cup of tea at the hotel. There is no rush to begin exploring; settle into Beijing as comfortably as you wish.

Begin at Tiananmen Square, where your guide explains its place in modern Chinese history and the significance of Beijing's central axis. Enter the Forbidden City through the Meridian Gate and walk through the former residence of 24 Ming and Qing emperors. Discover how imperial power shaped court ceremonies, government affairs and daily life, from the grand halls of the Outer Court to the private quarters of the Inner Court. Climb Jingshan Park for a panoramic view of the palace rooftops, then slow down at Beihai Park, a centuries-old imperial garden with a tranquil lake and the iconic White Dagoba. Watch locals enjoy the open spaces before ending the day with an optional Peking duck dinner.

Optional Excursions

Tea Ceremony Experience at Lao She Teahouse (paid on-site)

Enjoy a traditional tea experience at the historic Lao She Teahouse in Beijing. Relax in an authentic cultural setting, taste classic Chinese tea, and experience the charm of traditional teahouse culture. Our guide can help arrange the reservation, with the tea cost paid on-site.

+$0.00

Advisor quoted

Peking Duck Experience (Reservation Assistance)

Have a traditional Peking Duck meal at an established Beijing restaurant. Your guide can help with recommendations and reservations; you pay for the meal directly. A straightforward way to try the city's signature dish.

+$0.00

Advisor quoted

Gui Jie After Dark: Beijing’s Nightlife & Flavors

Visit Gui Jie after dark, when the lanterns are lit and the restaurants and late-night food stalls are full. Sample local specialties and see one of Beijing's best-known food streets at its busiest.

+$80.00

Advisor quoted

Head to Mutianyu Great Wall with your guide, who helps you choose a less crowded section and arranges the cable car ride up. Walk along the ancient ramparts, learning how watchtowers, signal fires and the mountain terrain once worked together to defend the capital. There is a real thrill standing on the parapets as the wall snakes away over wooded hills in both directions, and the toboggan down turns the return into part of the fun. Back in the city, visit the 2008 Olympic Park to see the National Stadium (Bird's Nest) and National Aquatics Center (Water Cube). Your guide explains the ideas behind their distinctive designs and how the venues reflect a modern chapter in Beijing's history. With a private car for the round trip, you can enjoy both sides of the city at a comfortable pace.

Optional Excursions

Mutianyu Cable Car & Toboggan Upgrade

Upgrade your Mutianyu Great Wall experience with a cable car ride up and a toboggan slide descent. Reach the Great Wall comfortably, enjoy panoramic mountain views along the way, and end your visit with an exciting ride down the hillside.

+$20.00

Advisor quoted

Mutianyu VIP Experience

A premium way to see the Mutianyu Great Wall: priority access, a private shuttle, and a round-trip cable car over the mountains, followed by a complimentary tea break after you've walked the Wall.

+$150.00

Advisor quoted

Authentic Beijing Hutong Breakfast Experience (paid on-site)

Explore Beijing's hutongs over a local breakfast. Try traditional favorites such as dumplings, buns, douzhi and jiaoquan, and see how the old alleyways start their day. Breakfast is paid on-site.

+$0.00

Advisor quoted

Take a high-speed train to Datong, where your local guide helps you discover the city's past as an important northern capital and Buddhist center. At Huayan Temple, learn how Buddhist beliefs shaped the artwork, layout and daily life of the temple community, with your guide pointing out details easy to miss on your own. Continue to the Nine-Dragon Wall, where the colorful glazed dragons offer a closer look at traditional Chinese symbolism and craftsmanship. Later, walk through Datong Ancient City, taking in its old streets and traditional architecture while hearing how the city developed through different dynasties. Along the way, enjoy time to pause for photos, browse local shops and take in the atmosphere of this historic city.

Optional Excursions

Huayan Temple Dougong Building Experience

Discover the ancient wisdom of Chinese architecture by learning to assemble a traditional dougong structure at Huayan Temple. Experience the unique interlocking wooden brackets and craftsmanship behind this iconic architectural feature.

+$45.00

Advisor quoted

A Dream in Datong Performance Experience

See A Dream in Datong (Ru Meng Datong), a stage production on the city's history, culture and legends, using visuals, music and storytelling, with modern staging behind the traditional subject.

+$37.00

Advisor quoted

Explore the Yungang Grottoes with your guide, who helps you read the stories carved into the sandstone cliffs. See the monumental Buddha in Cave 20 and the richly decorated Cave 5, while learning how Indian and Central Asian influences blended with Chinese art during the Northern Wei Dynasty. Rather than simply viewing the statues, discover the beliefs, artistic techniques and cultural exchanges behind them. Continue to the Hanging Temple near Hunyuan, where your guide explains how its wooden halls cling to the cliff and how Buddhist, Taoist and Confucian traditions share this unusual place of worship. Walk along its elevated passages, take in the views over the gorge and appreciate the ingenuity of this remarkable structure.

Optional Excursions

Datong Intangible Cultural Heritage Rubbing Experience

Try a hands-on rubbing workshop in Datong. You learn the old rubbing technique and press your own print from a carved block, taking home a piece tied to the city's historic carving.

+$45.00

Advisor quoted

Take the morning train to Pingyao and hand your bags to your guide at the ancient city gate, who sets the day around the old banking boulevard you are about to walk. First Rishengchang, China's first draft bank, founded in 1823, where your guide shows you the counters, the vaults and the anti-forgery watermarks and explains how one firm moved silver across the whole country. Then the Confucian Temple, your guide talking you through the cells scholars sat in for years to pass one exam, and the Ming County Government Office, its court, prison and garden brought alive by how a real yamen ran. Climb the city wall to loop the ramparts together, then finish free on Ming and Qing Street once the lanterns come on, the old town at dusk when it feels most like stepping back a century.

Optional Excursions

Pingyao Ancient City Paper-Cutting Experience

Explore the traditional folk art of paper-cutting in Pingyao Ancient City. Learn about this unique cultural craft and create your own paper-cut artwork while experiencing the creativity and heritage of Shanxi’s local traditions.

+$16.00

Advisor quoted

Encore Pingyao Performance Experience

Step into Encore Pingyao (You Jian Pingyao), a walk-through theater that moves through the history and culture of Pingyao Ancient City with interactive scenes and staged moments. Note: the show doesn't run on Mondays (weekly maintenance).

+$37.00

Advisor quoted

Begin at Shuanglin Temple, where your guide introduces its remarkable collection of centuries-old painted clay sculptures. Look closely at the expressive faces, intricate costumes and lifelike poses as you discover the Buddhist stories and craftsmanship behind these figures. Continue to the Wang Family Compound, a grand Qing-dynasty residence built by a wealthy Shanxi merchant family. Walk through its courtyards, tiled lanes and carved gateways as your guide shares stories of the family who once lived here, pointing out details of their daily life in the grand courtyards and traditional rooms. After the visits, board a high-speed train to Xi'an.

Walk the broad ramparts of Xi'an's Ancient City Wall, where your guide brings the city's imperial past into view as you look out over its historic rooftops and modern skyline. You can also rent a bicycle and follow the old fortifications for a different perspective of the city. Continue to the Giant Wild Goose Pagoda, where the story of monk Xuanzang's journey to India and his return with Buddhist scriptures adds depth to this landmark. As night falls, head to the Grand Tang Dynasty Ever-bright City, where glowing palace-style buildings, lantern-lit streets, traditional costumes and lively performances recreate the festive spirit of the Tang era. Wander at your own pace, stop to watch street performers and soak up the energy of Xi'an after dark.

Optional Excursions

Local Family Visit and Dumpling Making Experience

For an authentic taste of Xi'an’s culinary traditions, visit a local family and learn the art of making dumplings from scratch. From kneading the dough to preparing the perfect filling and wrapping each dumpling, you’ll be guided through every step of the process.

+$24.00

Advisor quoted

Xi'an City Wall Bike Ride

If you find yourself with some extra time, a bike ride along the Ancient City Wall is an exhilarating way to enhance your Xi'an experience. This activity allows you to pedal around one of the best-preserved city walls in China, offering a unique and active exploration of its expansive ramparts.

+$7.00

Advisor quoted

Qinqiang Opera

Sit in the vintage theater, hear the piercing clapper opera's soaring vocals, and experience the "living fossil of Chinese opera." Pre-show exhibition covers 100 years of Qinqiang history.

+$36.00

Advisor quoted

Hanfu Photography

Dress in traditional Hanfu, add classic accessories, and have your photo taken in a historic setting - a hands-on way into old Chinese style. (Cost is calculated by the actual number of participants.)

+$62.00

Advisor quoted

Travel to the Terracotta Warriors Museum, where thousands of life-sized clay soldiers stand in battle formation beneath vast archaeological pits. With your guide, discover how the figures were made, why each warrior has distinct facial features and what this extraordinary underground army reveals about Emperor Qin Shi Huang's ambitions. Continue to Huaqing Palace at the foot of Mount Li, a former imperial retreat known for its hot springs and the love story of Emperor Xuanzong and Yang Guifei. Your guide brings the Tang-era court life and romance into context as you walk through the gardens and historic bathing pools. The day ends at the open-air Song of Everlasting Sorrow, water, fire and a large cast on the palace grounds, an emotional close to the Tang thread your guide has been building.

Optional Excursions

“The Code of the Empire – Qin Shi Huang’s Mausoleum” XR Experience

Step into the Qin Dynasty with an XR experience recreating the Terracotta Warriors and Qin Shi Huang's mausoleum. Interactive technology walks you through the ancient army and the story of China's first emperor.

+$30.00

Advisor quoted

Create Your Own Terracotta Warrior: DIY Workshop

Create your own Terracotta Warrior in this fun 30-minute hands-on workshop inspired by the Qin Dynasty’s ancient craftsmanship. Perfect for all ages, this activity offers a unique cultural experience and memorable souvenir.

+$15.00

Advisor quoted

Qin Terracotta Warriors Village Visit

Step beyond the museum to explore a local village near the Terracotta Warriors, where you can discover traditional village life, local craftsmanship, and the living culture surrounding this world-famous archaeological site.

+$5.00

Advisor quoted

Upgrade to VIP Zone C Seating for the Song of Everlasting Sorrow

VIP Zone C seating for the Song of Everlasting Sorrow, with clear views of the large stage, the performers and the Tang Dynasty love story, in a comfortable seat.

+$28.00

Advisor quoted

Upgrade to VIP Zone B Seating for the Song of Everlasting Sorrow

VIP Zone B seating for the Song of Everlasting Sorrow, a closer view of the stage effects and set design of this Tang Dynasty show, in a more comfortable seat.

+$74.00

Advisor quoted

Upgrade to VIP Zone A Seating for the Song of Everlasting Sorrow

The top seating tier for the Song of Everlasting Sorrow. VIP Zone A gives you the best viewing position for the stage effects, costumes and the Tang Dynasty love story, with the most room to sit comfortably.

+$90.00

Advisor quoted

Spend the morning at Xi'an's Bell Tower and Drum Tower, rising above the busy streets at the heart of the old city. Your guide shares how their bells and drums once marked the hours and signaled the opening and closing of the city gates. Then head into the Muslim Quarter, where colorful signs, sizzling food stalls and the scent of freshly baked bread fill the lively lanes. Watch vendors prepare local specialties, browse small shops and try Xi'an favorites such as roujiamo and persimmon cakes. Along the way, your guide introduces the neighborhood's long-standing Muslim heritage and its influence on local food culture. Later, transfer to the airport for your flight to Harbin, leaving the warm colors and bustling streets of Xi'an behind for the crisp northern winter.

Optional Excursions

Xiaonanmen Morning Market Experience

Experience the authentic morning life of Xi’an at Xiaonanmen Morning Market, where locals gather for fresh produce, traditional snacks, and regional specialties. Stroll through the lively streets, taste local flavors, and discover the everyday culture of the city beyond its famous landmarks.

+$0.00

Advisor quoted

Xi’an Shadow Puppet Performance Experience

Discover the charm of Xi’an’s traditional shadow puppetry through a captivating live performance. Enjoy the delicate craftsmanship, expressive movements, and storytelling art behind this ancient folk tradition.

+$15.00

Advisor quoted

Get a closer look at Siberian tigers at the Tiger Park, where you can watch these powerful cats roaming through large enclosures. Your guide shares insights into their habits, hunting instincts and conservation. Continue to Sun Island International Snow Sculpture Art Expo, an open-air showcase of enormous snow creations. Walk among towering sculptures shaped into figures, animals and imaginative scenes, and admire the fine details carved from packed snow. As night falls, head to Harbin Ice and Snow World, where giant ice castles, frozen towers and illuminated slides glow in brilliant colors. Wander through this spectacular winter wonderland, take photos among the glowing structures and enjoy the seasonal ice activities that make Harbin famous.

Optional Excursions

Dongbei Morning Market

Start your morning at a lively Dongbei market filled with the aromas of fresh street food and local flavors. Wander through colorful stalls, taste regional specialties, and discover how locals begin their day with warmth and tradition.

+$0.00

Advisor quoted

Experience another side of Harbin at the frozen Songhua River, where the wide expanse of ice becomes a winter playground. Try seasonal activities such as ice biking or sledding, or enjoy the lively riverside atmosphere. Continue to the Chinese Baroque Historical and Cultural Block, known for its mix of European-style façades and traditional Chinese details. Your guide shares the stories behind this unusual architecture as you stroll through its old lanes. At Saint Sophia Cathedral Square, admire the green domes and red-brick exterior of the former Russian Orthodox church, one of Harbin's most recognizable landmarks. End on Central Street, stopping for Madieer ice cream, grilled sausages or freshly baked Russian-style bread. Browse the shops and sample some of Harbin's best-known street treats.

Optional Excursions

Songhua River Cable Car ( One-Way Ride )

Ride a cable car above the frozen Songhua River for wide views of the ice, the snow-covered rooftops and the Harbin skyline. Your guide talks you through the city as it turns into a winter scene below.

+$15.00

Advisor quoted

Ice Fishing on Songhua River ( 3-Hour Experience )

Try traditional ice fishing on the frozen Songhua River with local fishermen. Drill through thick ice, cast your line, and enjoy the quiet beauty of winter as you experience an authentic Harbin tradition far from the city’s hustle.

+$45.00

Advisor quoted

Enjoy your final morning in Harbin at your own pace, whether over a leisurely breakfast, a last stroll along Central Street or some unhurried packing. Your guide or driver will be available if you need assistance. At the agreed time, your driver will provide a private transfer to Harbin Taiping International Airport, the railway station or another preferred drop-off point, arranged around your onward travel schedule. They will also help with your luggage, ensuring a smooth and comfortable departure. Wishing you a pleasant journey home, and we hope to welcome you back to China again.