This 10-day rail journey takes you between imperial Beijing and space-age Shanghai, stopping along the way to explore the historic marvels of Nanjing, and beautiful Suzhou, the canal crossed ‘Venice of China.’
Beijing is one of the world’s great cities, overwhelming with its size, yet filled with quintessential symbols of China. A full day tour takes you to Tiananmen Square, the world’s largest public plaza, stretching out from the Forbidden City, your next destination. The former imperial palace dates back to the 5th century, consisting of 9,999 rooms. Today, it is one of the most visited and instantly recognised complexes of its kind. In the afternoon, take in the Summer Palace, for an eye-catching summary of how China’s emperors once lived. The following day, take in the perfect geometry of the Temple of Heaven, and the serenity of its surrounding park, before embarking on your trip to China’s Great Wall. You’ll visit the Mutianyu section for a less crowded view of this engineering marvel.
High-speed rail connects the capital to the city of Nanjing. Along with Beijing, Luoyang, and Xi’an, Nanjing is considered one of the Four Great Ancient Capitals of China. Your day begins by paying your respects to the Hongwu Emperor, founder of the Ming Dynasty, and Dr. Sun Yat-sen, the first provisional president of the Republic of China. Visit the Presidential Palace, political centre of the Republic of China from 1927 until its relocation to Taipei in 1949. Visit the Memorial Hall of the Victims in Nanjing Massacre, which honours the 100,000 civilians murdered during the Japanese occupation of Nanjing. It’s a sobering experience, but one vital to understanding the forces that have shaped Nanjing today.
Your next destination is China’s enchanting canal city, Suzhou. Arrive via another high speed train ride, then marvel at the picture-perfect gardens and photogenic canals of this city. Visit the Humble Administrator’s Garden, and enjoy a sampan ride along the Grand Canal. Explore the Suzhou Museum for a 101 on the region, told within a gorgeously designed building, then find your serenity on scenic Tiger Hill, ending your day’s exploration with a stroll down Santang Cultural Street.
Another high speed train takes you to your final stop, Shanghai. Locals practice dawn tai chi in the shadow of architectural masterpieces on the Bund. All the while, the gleaming, space-age towers of Pudong demonstrate China’s commitment to the future. Learn about these contrasts and more at the Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Center. Then visit the 400 year-old Yu Garden for a gentle reminder that Shanghai didn’t spring up overnight. Tuck into some famous Shanghai soup dumplings for lunch, then spend your afternoon in the former French Concession, where small galleries and cafes now thrive. End your day with a ride to the top of the world’s second tallest building, Shanghai Tower, before spending your evening at leisure in Shanghai.