8 Days Beijing Datong Pingyao Tour to Explore China History

Summary

Day 1 Arrive in Beijing
Day 2 Beijing: Tiananmen Square, Forbidden City, Temple of Heaven, Jingshan Park
Day 3 Beijing: Summer Palace, Kunming Lake Boat Riding, Nanluoguxiang, Panjiayuan Antique Market
Day 4 Beijing: Mutianyu Great Wall, Bird's Nest, Water Cube
Day 5 Beijing-Datong by Bullet Train: Train to Datong, Yungang Grottoes, Nine Dragon Wall, Hanging Temple
Day 6 Datong-Pingyao by Bullet Train: Train to Pingyao, Pingyao Ancient Town, Ancient City Wall
Day 7 Pingyao: Pingyao Rishengchang Draft Bank, Ancient Security Guard Company, Wang Family Courtyard
Day 8 Pingyao Departure

Day 1 Arrive in Beijing

Welcome to China! On your first day, you will arrive at Beijing International Airport, where you will be warmly greeted by our driver, holding a sign with the Your Way Holiday logo. After a friendly welcome, you will be escorted to your hotel in comfort and style. Once you arrive, you'll have time to relax and recover from your flight, allowing you to unwind and adjust to the local time zone. This downtime will help you shake off any travel fatigue, so you’re refreshed and ready to embark on your exciting 8-day journey. Over the next few days, you'll explore the vibrant history and culture of Beijing, the ancient beauty of Datong, and the well-preserved traditional charm of Pingyao, ensuring a perfect blend of rest and discovery. Let the adventure begin!

Day 2 Beijing

Your day begins at Tiananmen Square, one of the largest public squares in the world, a place of monumental historical significance. As you step into the square, the vastness of the space immediately strikes you, surrounded by iconic structures such as the Gate of Heavenly Peace and the Mausoleum of Mao Zedong. Your guide will share fascinating stories about the square’s role in China’s political and cultural history, from its use as a site for imperial ceremonies to its more recent significance in modern history. Your guide will also point out the Monument to the People's Heroes, which commemorates those who fought for China’s independence. This grand setting serves as a perfect introduction to your exploration of Beijing, offering insights into the nation’s past and present.

Next, you’ll step into the legendary Forbidden City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the former imperial palace of the Ming and Qing dynasties. As you walk through its vast courtyards and grand halls, your guide will explain the intricate symbolism behind the architecture, colors, and layout. The Hall of Supreme Harmony, where emperors once held court, is one of the grandest sights, while the Imperial Garden offers a peaceful respite with its meticulously designed pavilions and ancient trees. Your guide will also share fascinating details about the daily life of the imperial family and court officials, making this journey through China’s imperial past come to life. You’ll leave with a deep appreciation of the grandeur and mystery of one of the world’s largest palaces.

After a fascinating visit to the Forbidden City, you’ll head to Jingshan Park, located just to the north of the palace. This historical park offers not only a serene escape but also one of the best panoramic views of the Forbidden City and Beijing. As you ascend to the top of Jingshan Hill, your guide will explain the history of the park, which was once part of the imperial gardens. From here, you’ll get an incredible view of the sprawling Forbidden City, as well as the city’s skyline in the distance. The park's history as a strategic location will be revealed by your guide, who will also share stories about the Ming emperors and the role this hill played in imperial ceremonies. The peaceful atmosphere and beautiful scenery will provide a perfect moment to reflect on the morning’s explorations.

Your final stop of the day is the Temple of Heaven, one of China’s most iconic religious sites and another UNESCO World Heritage Site. This temple complex, set in a vast park, was once the site of royal ceremonies held by emperors to pray for good harvests. Your guide will take you through the Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests, explaining its architectural beauty and symbolic meaning. The unique circular structure and its alignment with the heavens will be thoroughly explained, giving you a deep understanding of ancient Chinese cosmology. You’ll also learn about the traditions surrounding the emperor’s annual prayers and how the Temple of Heaven symbolizes the connection between earth and the heavens. After wandering through the serene grounds, you'll leave with a sense of awe at the spiritual and cultural significance of this remarkable site.

Day 3 Beijing

Your day begins with a visit to the Summer Palace, a sprawling imperial garden and one of the most beautiful and well-preserved royal parks in China. Known for its enchanting landscapes, this UNESCO World Heritage Site was once the summer retreat for emperors. As you stroll through the lush gardens and explore its intricate pavilions, your guide will explain the significance of Kunming Lake and the Longevity Hill that dominate the landscape. The Long Corridor, a covered walkway adorned with thousands of painted scenes, is a highlight, with your guide sharing insights into the stories behind these murals. From the Marble Boat to the Tower of Buddhist Incense, each part of the palace tells a story of imperial power, cultural symbolism, and architectural brilliance. The tranquil beauty of the Summer Palace offers a perfect escape from the city, allowing you to experience the grandeur of imperial China.

After touring the Summer Palace, you’ll have the opportunity to enjoy a peaceful Boat Ride on Kunming Lake, a central feature of the park. Your guide will explain how the lake was meticulously designed to mirror famous landscapes from around China, and you’ll learn about its historical significance as a royal playground. As you glide across the serene waters, you’ll pass by scenic spots like the Seventeen-Arch Bridge and Nanhu Island, each offering perfect photo opportunities. The boat ride gives you a unique perspective of the Summer Palace, allowing you to appreciate the intricate relationship between nature and royal architecture. The tranquility of the lake, combined with your guide’s explanations, will make this experience both relaxing and informative, offering a memorable way to soak in the beauty of the palace grounds.

Next, you’ll head to Nanluoguxiang, one of Beijing's oldest and most charming hutong (traditional alleys). This lively area is known for its blend of historical architecture and trendy shops, cafes, and art galleries. As you walk down this narrow lane, your guide will share stories about the hutong’s evolution, from its origins as a residential area for scholars and officials to its transformation into a vibrant cultural hub. The narrow lanes are lined with traditional siheyuan (courtyard houses), offering a glimpse into the past. Your guide will also point out the various shops selling handcrafted goods, local snacks, and unique souvenirs. This area gives you a chance to experience a more local side of Beijing, where old and new coexist harmoniously. It’s the perfect spot to wander, relax, and absorb the atmosphere of Beijing’s traditional yet modern life.

Your last stop of the day takes you to Panjiayuan Antique Market, one of the largest and most famous flea markets in Beijing. This bustling market is a treasure trove for those interested in Chinese antiques, cultural artifacts, and unique souvenirs. As you browse through the myriad of stalls, your guide will help you navigate the maze of offerings, explaining the significance of various items such as jade, ceramics, calligraphy, and traditional Chinese furniture. Whether you’re a collector or simply curious about Chinese history, your guide will offer insights into the authenticity and cultural importance of the items on display. The market's lively atmosphere is an exciting way to end your day, with countless opportunities to find a special memento of your time in Beijing.

Day 4 Beijing

Your day begins with a visit to the Mutianyu Great Wall, one of the most stunning and well-preserved sections of the iconic Great Wall of China. Located about 70 kilometers from Beijing, Mutianyu is less crowded than the popular Badaling section, allowing you to enjoy the majesty of the Wall in a more serene setting. As you hike along the ancient stone path, your guide will share the history of the Wall, explaining its role in defending China from northern invaders and the incredible effort involved in its construction. The wall snakes over the rugged hills, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Whether you choose to take the cable car or hike the more challenging sections, your guide will ensure you have an informative and enjoyable experience. Standing on this monumental structure, you'll gain a deep appreciation for its engineering brilliance and historical significance.

After exploring the Great Wall, you’ll head to the Bird’s Nest, officially known as the National Stadium, located in Beijing’s Olympic Park. This iconic architectural marvel was designed for the 2008 Summer Olympics and has since become one of the most recognizable structures in the world. Your guide will explain the innovative design behind the stadium, which features a striking "nest" of steel beams, symbolizing both the modernity of China and the nation’s growing global presence. As you stroll around the exterior, your guide will share stories about the Olympic Games and the significance of the Bird’s Nest in Beijing’s rise as a global metropolis. If time allows, you can also take a peek inside, where the stadium’s impressive interior awaits. Whether or not you catch a live event, the Bird’s Nest remains a stunning testament to modern architecture and Beijing’s ambitious spirit.

Your next stop is the Water Cube, also known as the National Aquatics Center, another remarkable structure built for the 2008 Olympics. This futuristic building is renowned for its unique design, which features a bubble-like exterior made of translucent, light-reflecting material. Your guide will walk you through the innovative architectural features of the building, explaining how the design mimics the appearance of water bubbles and symbolizes the harmony between nature and human achievement. Inside, you can explore the pool areas where record-breaking swimming events took place, and learn about China’s accomplishments in aquatic sports. The Water Cube now hosts various events and activities, including swimming and water polo, and offers a fascinating contrast to the Bird’s Nest with its modern, fluid design. The visit to the Water Cube will round out your day, providing a glimpse into China’s dedication to innovation and excellence on the world stage.

Day 5 Beijing-Datong

Your adventure continues as you board a bullet train from Beijing to Datong, a journey that takes approximately 2 hours, offering you a comfortable and scenic ride through China’s countryside. As the train speeds through the northern plains, your guide will provide insights into the history of the regions you pass, offering a glimpse into the local culture and traditions. Once you arrive in Datong, the city will captivate you with its blend of ancient heritage and modern development. Datong, known for its rich Buddhist history, is home to some of China’s most important historical and cultural sites. After disembarking, your guide will lead you through the city, starting with its most renowned attractions.

Your first stop in Datong is the Yungang Grottoes, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most significant Buddhist cave complexes in China. These grottoes, carved into the cliffs during the Northern Wei Dynasty, house over 51,000 Buddhist statues and carvings. As you explore the intricate cave temples, your guide will explain the significance of the sculptures and their spiritual importance in Buddhist culture. The largest statues, towering up to 17 meters high, are particularly awe-inspiring, showcasing the grandeur of ancient Chinese art and craftsmanship. Your guide will also delve into the history of the grottoes, explaining how they were constructed over several centuries and their role in spreading Buddhism across China. This visit to Yungang Grottoes provides a deep dive into China’s spiritual and artistic heritage, leaving you in awe of the ancient craftsmanship that endures to this day.

After the awe-inspiring grottoes, you’ll head to the Nine Dragon Wall, one of China’s most famous architectural treasures. This stunning wall, constructed during the Ming Dynasty, features nine intricately crafted dragons made from glazed tiles. As you marvel at the detailed craftsmanship, your guide will share the symbolism behind the dragons, which are traditionally seen as auspicious creatures representing power, strength, and good fortune. The vibrant colors of the wall, which includes shades of blue, green, and gold, highlight the artistic skills of the artisans of the time. Your guide will also explain the purpose of the Nine Dragon Wall, which was originally part of a palace and served as a decorative element designed to ward off evil spirits and bring prosperity to the area. This historical gem offers a beautiful and colorful representation of ancient Chinese architecture and mythology.

Your day culminates with a visit to the Hanging Temple (Xuan Kong Temple), a remarkable architectural wonder built into the cliffs of Mount Heng. The temple appears to defy gravity, perched precariously on the side of the mountain, and offers a breathtaking view of the surrounding landscape. As you walk along the wooden walkways and explore the temple’s intricate halls, your guide will share the fascinating story of its construction over 1,500 years ago. Built by a Buddhist monk, the temple is a fusion of Buddhist, Taoist, and Confucian teachings, which is reflected in its unique architecture and design. The temple’s construction techniques, which include using wooden beams to support the structure without drilling into the rock, will leave you in awe of ancient engineering skills. The breathtaking views, combined with the spiritual significance of the temple, make this a fitting end to your exploration of Datong’s historical treasures.

Day 6 Datong - Pingyao

Your journey continues as you board a bullet Train from Datong to Pingyao, a ride that takes you through the heart of northern China, offering glimpses of rural landscapes and small villages. As you relax during the scenic ride, your guide will share interesting facts about the history of Pingyao and its significance as one of China’s best-preserved ancient towns. Pingyao, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is known for maintaining much of its traditional architecture and ancient layout, giving visitors a unique opportunity to step back in time and experience the China of centuries past. Upon arrival, your guide will take you to the heart of this charming town, where centuries-old streets and buildings await you.

Your first stop in Pingyao is the Pingyao Ancient Town, which offers a rare glimpse into life during China’s Ming and Qing dynasties. This well-preserved town is famous for its ancient street layout, traditional courtyard homes, and historical sites. As you wander through the cobbled streets lined with ancient wooden buildings, your guide will introduce you to the town’s history as a prosperous merchant hub. In the past, Pingyao was one of China’s financial centers, and many of its buildings, such as the Rishengchang Draft Bank, reflect this rich commercial history. Your guide will point out the architectural features unique to Pingyao, such as the ancient courtyard houses (siheyuan), which were designed to keep the family’s living space private and secure. The town’s mix of traditional culture, old-world charm, and quiet alleyways provides the perfect atmosphere for exploration.

After exploring the ancient town, you’ll head to the Ancient City Wall, which dates back to the Ming Dynasty and encircles Pingyao like a protective barrier. As you walk along the well-preserved wall, your guide will explain its strategic importance and how it was designed to protect the town from potential invaders. The wall stretches over 6 kilometers and offers incredible views of the surrounding countryside and the town below. You’ll also learn about the watchtowers, gates, and defensive features that were integral to the town’s security. The ancient city wall is not only a testament to Pingyao’s military history but also a symbol of the town’s endurance through the centuries. Climbing to the top of the wall provides a unique vantage point, allowing you to appreciate the layout of the town and its well-preserved historical character. This visit gives you a sense of the town’s past significance and provides the perfect opportunity to reflect on the rich history of Pingyao.

Day 7 Pingyao

Your exploration of Pingyao continues with a visit to the Rishengchang Draft Bank, one of the first banks in China and a testament to the city’s historical importance as a financial center during the Ming and Qing dynasties. Established in the late 1800s, this bank was a pioneer in the development of China’s modern banking system, introducing the draft system (a type of bill of exchange) that revolutionized trade and finance across the country. As you enter the bank’s traditional courtyard, your guide will explain how Rishengchang’s innovative financial practices helped Pingyao thrive as a commercial hub. Inside, you’ll be able to see the preserved rooms where business transactions took place, including the wooden counters and antique cash boxes. The intricate architecture and traditional furnishings provide a fascinating look into the financial history of ancient China, and your guide will also share the bank’s rise and eventual decline, offering a full picture of its influence on both local and national levels.

Next, you’ll visit the Ancient Security Guard Company, an essential part of Pingyao’s historical defense system. This company was responsible for protecting the town and its wealthy merchants from bandits and external threats during the town’s heyday. As you walk through the company’s headquarters, your guide will explain the structure and organization of the security force, which consisted of armed guards stationed at key points in and around the town. The company’s role was critical in maintaining order, and their efforts helped Pingyao thrive as a center for trade and banking. You’ll see artifacts and displays showcasing the weapons, armor, and uniforms used by the guards, along with detailed accounts of their duties. The Ancient Security Guard Company offers an intriguing glimpse into Pingyao’s history as a prosperous, fortified town where protection was paramount. The well-preserved building is an excellent example of the town's military history and provides a fascinating counterpoint to the economic activity that defined Pingyao’s golden age.

In the afternoon, you’ll head to the Wang Family Courtyard, a stunning collection of traditional siheyuan (courtyard houses) built by the Wang family, one of Pingyao’s wealthiest merchant families. The Wang family made their fortune in the salt trade, and their impressive courtyard complex reflects their prosperity and influence. As you wander through the expansive courtyards, your guide will explain the family’s history and the architectural significance of the structures. The Wang Family Courtyard is a masterpiece of traditional Chinese design, with ornate decorations, intricate carvings, and harmonious layout. The complex consists of multiple courtyards and buildings, each serving a different purpose for the family, from living quarters to storage areas and ceremonial halls. Your guide will also share fascinating stories about the family’s rise to power, their cultural contributions, and their eventual decline. The site offers a fascinating look into the life of China’s elite merchant class during the Qing Dynasty and provides a window into the grandeur of Pingyao’s prosperous past.

Day 8 Pingyao Departure

Your 8-day journey through Beijing, Datong, and Pingyao has been a fascinating exploration of China’s rich history, culture, and architectural marvels. From the imperial grandeur of Beijing’s Forbidden City and the Summer Palace to the awe-inspiring Yungang Grottoes and the Hanging Temple in Datong, you’ve witnessed China’s historical depth and artistic brilliance. In Pingyao, you’ve walked through time, exploring the well-preserved streets of this ancient merchant town, with its historical Rishengchang Draft Bank, the Ancient Security Guard Company, and the Wang Family Courtyard, all offering insights into the town’s prosperous past. As you bid farewell to Pingyao, you leave with unforgettable memories of China’s cultural gems, having experienced firsthand the rich heritage that has shaped this remarkable nation.

Price Per Person in US Dollars

Price Includes 1. Cozy Ride: Enjoy the comfort and spaciousness of our air-conditioned car, offering scenic views. 2. Bilingual Expert Guide: Benefit from a personalized experience with a guide fluent in your language, catering to your needs. 3. Entrance Fees: Access all attractions and activities mentioned in the itinerary without worrying about additional entrance fees. 4. Seamless Transfer: Enhance your experience with convenient hotel or train station pickup and drop-off service. 5. Connect Seamlessly: Stay connected with complimentary onboard WiFi, allowing you to share your experiences in real-time. 6. City-to-City Train Tickets: For itineraries involving high-speed rail travel, assistance with booking ensures a smooth and efficient experience. 7. Selected Hotels and Daily Breakfast: Experience a comfortable stay in handpicked hotels, each chosen for its quality and amenities. Enjoy a daily breakfast at the hotel, starting your day on a delicious note. 8. Complimentary Water: Receive a complimentary bottle of water for each person, keeping you refreshed throughout your journey. 9. Travel Agency Liability Insurance: Benefit from coverage under our travel agency liability insurance, providing added protection and peace of mind during your trip.

Price Excludes 1. Personal Expenses: This includes phone bills, laundry, additional tours, postage, and any entertainment fees not covered in the itinerary. 2. Meals: While meals are not included, our guide will recommend the best local food spots, giving you the chance to explore and choose based on your preferences. (Average cost per person for a regular meal at local eateries: 40RMB/6USD-80RMB/12USD) 3. Tips: Tips are not mandatory but are recommended for excellent service. If you feel satisfied with the service, you may consider leaving a tip. The tipping standards are as follows: Driver: 50-100 RMB per day/group; Guide: 100-200 RMB per day/group. 4. Insurance: Insurance coverage for personal loss, illness, or damages incurred during your trip is not included. 5. Optional Activities: Any optional activities listed in the itinerary are not included in the tour fees, allowing you to choose and participate based on your preferences.