Itinerary
DAY 1 To ZHENGZHOU
Itinerary:
Upon arrival at Zhengzhou Airport, our tour guide will warmly welcome you. Afterward, you will be transferred to the hotel for check-in.
The remainder of the day is free for you to explore at your leisure and acclimatize to the local environment of Zhengzhou.
Meals: None
Accommodation: Zhengzhou
DAY 2 ZHENGZHOU - KAIFENG - ZHENGZHOU
Itinerary:
After breakfast, guests will gather at the hotel at the designated time and depart for the ancient capital of Kaifeng (approximately 70 km, 1.5-hour drive).
Upon arrival, visit Kaifeng Prefecture (duration: 1 hour).
Originally built during the Later Liang Dynasty of the Five Dynasties period and also known as the "Southern Yamen," Kaifeng Prefecture boasts a history of over a thousand years.
During the Northern Song Dynasty, it was a grand and prestigious administrative center, offering insights into the official culture and historical stories of that era.
After lunch, explore the Qingming Riverside Landscape Garden (duration: 60 minutes).
This park is modeled after the realistic painting Along the River During the Qingming Festival by artist Zhang Zeduan and constructed according to the Yingzao Fashi standards.
Themed around Song Dynasty urban culture, folk customs, royal gardens, and ancient entertainment, the park allows visitors to immerse themselves in the experience.
It is a large-scale Song Dynasty folk culture theme park, vividly recreating the bustling scenes of the ancient capital Bianjing (Kaifeng) a millennium ago.
After the tour, return to Zhengzhou by vehicle and check in at the hotel for rest.
Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Zhengzhou
DAY 3 ZHENGZHOU - DENGFENG - LUOYANG
Itinerary:
After breakfast, depart for Dengfeng (approximately 120 km, 2-hour drive) to visit the Shaolin Temple (duration: about 3 hours).
The Shaolin Temple, a Buddhist monastery, is the ancestral home of Chan Buddhism (Zen) in Chinese Buddhism and holds significant importance in the history of Chinese Buddhism.
Renowned for the martial arts developed and perfected by generations of Shaolin monks, it is often said, "All martial arts under heaven originated from Shaolin, and Shaolin kung fu is the best under heaven." Here, visitors can immerse themselves in the rich traditions of Buddhist culture and the allure of martial arts.
After lunch, travel to Luoyang (approximately 80 km, 1.5-hour drive). Upon arrival, visit the Mingtang and Tiantang Scenic Area (duration: 2 hours).
This site was once the political and religious center of Luoyang, the "Divine Capital," where Empress Wu Zetian governed, worshipped, and lived.
The area primarily features two structures: the Mingtang and the Tiantang. The Mingtang, known as the "Hall of Cosmic Order," was the main hall of the Luoyang Imperial City during the Tang Dynasty.
The Tiantang, Empress Wu Zetian's private Buddhist temple, showcases the splendid architectural artistry and historical culture of the Tang Dynasty.
This day offers a deep dive into the spiritual and cultural heritage of China, from the martial traditions of Shaolin to the imperial grandeur of Tang-era Luoyang.
Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Zhengzhou
DAY 4 LUOYANG - XI'AN
Itinerary:
After breakfast, depart for the **Longmen Grottoes** (approximately 30-minute drive, duration: about 2.5 hours).
The Longmen Grottoes are one of China's treasured stone carving art sites, renowned alongside the Mogao Caves, Yungang Grottoes, and Maijishan Grottoes as one of the "Four Great Grottoes of China."
The grottoes feature exquisitely carved Buddhist statues, each unique in form and style, reflecting the evolution of Buddhist art and societal influences across different historical periods.
They hold immense artistic and historical significance.In the afternoon, visit the **White Horse Temple** (duration: about 1 hour), located in the White Horse Temple Town, Luolong District, approximately 12 kilometers east of Luoyang's old city.
Established in the 11th year of the Yongping era of the Eastern Han Dynasty (68 AD), the White Horse Temple is the first officially built Buddhist temple in China following the introduction of Buddhism.
Known as the "Cradle of Chinese Buddhism" and the "Source of Buddhism in China," it boasts a history of over 1,900 years.
The temple houses a precious collection of Yuan Dynasty lacquer statues, including the Three Buddhas, Two Heavenly Generals, and the Eighteen Arhats. Visitors can immerse themselves in the profound and enduring legacy of Buddhist culture.
After the tour, take a high-speed train (recommended: G429, Luoyang - Xi'an North, 17:01 - 18:25) to the ancient city of **Xi'an**. Upon arrival, check in at the hotel for rest.
This day offers a journey through the spiritual and artistic heritage of China, from the awe-inspiring carvings of Longmen to the historic roots of Buddhism at the White Horse Temple, culminating in the vibrant cultural hub of Xi'an.
Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation:Xi'an
DAY 5 XI'AN - LINTONG - XI'AN
Itinerary:
After breakfast, depart for Lintong to visit the Terracotta Warriors and Horses Museum.
Known as the "Eighth Wonder of the World," the museum showcases a vast array of terracotta warriors, including the Bronze Chariots and Horses, and Pits 1, 2, and 3.
These exhibits vividly depict the military might and exquisite sculptural artistry of the Qin Dynasty, offering visitors a glimpse into the grandeur of ancient Qin history.
Next, visit the iconic Tang cultural landmark, the Huaqing Palace ( duration: about 70 minutes).
This site served as a winter retreat for Emperor Xuanzong and his beloved concubine Yang Guifei, and later as the residence of Chiang Kai-shek during the Xi'an Incident.
Explore attractions within the palace grounds, such as the Five-Room Hall and the Imperial Hot Springs, and immerse yourself in the charm of ancient royal gardens and the weight of history.
Continue to the AAAA-rated Lishan National Forest Park ( duration: about 2 hours). From the mountain, you can view the Beacon Tower from the Western Zhou and Warring States periods.
Lishan is renowned for its picturesque scenery, numerous cultural relics, and profound historical significance, making it an ideal destination for leisure and historical exploration.
After the tour, return to Xi'an and check in at the hotel for rest.
This day offers a deep dive into the rich history and cultural heritage of China, from the awe-inspiring Terracotta Army to the royal elegance of Huaqing Palace and the natural beauty of Lishan Mountain.
Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation:Xi'an
DAY 6 XI'AN - Mount HUA - XI'AN
Itinerary:
After breakfast, depart for Mount Hua (approximately 130 km, 2-hour drive) to visit the renowned West Peak of Mount Hua (includes 280 RMB/person for the West Peak cable car and round-trip mountain shuttle).
Mount Hua, one of China's Five Great Mountains, is famous for its breathtaking steepness and rich martial arts culture. It has long been a destination for poets, scholars, and adventurers, attracting countless visitors eager to conquer its peaks.
The mountain features numerous iconic sites, such as the Plank Walk in the Sky and the Falcon's Turn, offering stunning natural scenery and a chance to experience the unique allure of Mount Hua.
Due to limited dining options on the mountain, lunch can be a light meal or enjoyed at the Dicos Hamburger Restaurant near the West Peak cable car station.
Note: Mount Hua offers two cable car options: the North Peak Cable Car and the West Peak Cable Car. The included cable car route ensures visitors can enjoy the mountain's highlights without excessive physical strain.
Guests may choose alternative routes based on personal preference. Due to the physical demands, the tour guide will not accompany guests during the hike.
After the tour, return to Xi'an and check in at the hotel for rest.
This day combines the thrill of exploring one of China's most iconic mountains with the convenience of modern amenities, ensuring a memorable and comfortable experience.
Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation:Xi'an
DAY 7 XI'AN
Itinerary:
After breakfast, visit the Giant Wild Goose Pagoda at Da Ci'en Temple.
This architectural masterpiece of Tang Dynasty Buddhism was commissioned by the Tang imperial family and served as one of the three major translation centers in Chang'an (modern-day Xi'an) over 1,350 years ago.
The temple is where the renowned monk Xuanzang (Tang Sanzang) translated Buddhist scriptures, presided over temple affairs, and founded the Consciousness-Only School, one of the eight major schools of Chinese Buddhism.
Visitors can immerse themselves in the profound depth of Buddhist culture here.
Next, explore the "Twelve Hours of Chang'an" Themed Block. This immersive experience is inspired by the Tang Dynasty's urban culture and the popular web series The Longest Day in Chang'an.
The block is meticulously designed to recreate the Tang Dynasty in every detail, from architecture and decor to currency, costumes, language, music, and storytelling.
It offers a comprehensive Tang cultural experience, featuring themed dining, cultural and creative shops, and live performances, making it a vibrant hub for Tang-style urban life, interactive activities, and cultural leisure.
In the evening, enjoy a night tour of the Tang Dynasty Ever-Bright City, which includes the Ever-Bright City Pedestrian Street and the North and South Squares of the Giant Wild Goose Pagoda.
The area is dominated by Tang-style architecture, enhanced by light shows, musical fountains, and street performances, creating a lively and bustling atmosphere reminiscent of a Tang Dynasty night market.
This immersive experience transports visitors back to the golden age of the Tang Dynasty, allowing them to witness its prosperity and grandeur firsthand.
This day offers a rich blend of historical exploration and immersive cultural experiences, bringing the splendor of the Tang Dynasty to life.
Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation:Xi'an
DAY 8 XI'AN - XI'AN XianYang Airport
Itinerary:
After breakfast, depart for the Ming City Wall (entrance fee: 54 RMB/person, duration: about 60 minutes), one of China's best-preserved ancient city walls.
Visitors can choose to stroll or cycle along the wall, enjoying panoramic views of Xi'an's cityscape while soaking in the ancient charm and historical grandeur of the site.
Next, head to Yongxingfang for free exploration. Yongxingfang is a themed block dedicated to intangible cultural heritage (ICH) cuisine, bringing together the culinary traditions of 11 cities and 107 districts and counties across Shaanxi Province.
Here, visitors can sample a wide array of Shaanxi delicacies and purchase over a hundred types of local specialties, offering a comprehensive taste of Shaanxi's cultural richness and gastronomic heritage.
This day combines historical immersion with a culinary adventure, allowing visitors to experience the essence of Xi'an's past and present.
At the designated time, a transfer will be arranged to the airport. Guests will board their flights and return to their respective destinations, marking the end of this delightful journey.
Service Include:
Transportation: Domestic flight including taxes.
Vehicle: 7-seat Buick GL8 business van or Coach
Accommodation: Double standard rooms in five-star /four-star hotels (two people per room, with breakfast included).
Meals: Breakfast included in the hotel, as well as the meals listed in the itinerary, featuring local specialties.
Guide: Local professional tour guide service.
Tickets: First entrance tickets to the attractions listed in the itinerary.