Embarking on a holiday trip to China’s iconic trio – Beijing, Xi’an, and Shanghai – is like stepping through the pages of history and into the vibrant heart of its modern dynamism. Each city offers a unique and unforgettable experience, painting a comprehensive picture of China’s rich heritage and rapid evolution. This itinerary promises a captivating blend of ancient wonders, cultural immersion, and cosmopolitan excitement.

Beijing: Imperial Grandeur and Modern Metropolis

Our journey begins in Beijing, the majestic capital that has served as the political and cultural heart of China for centuries. Here, history breathes from every stone, inviting exploration of imperial palaces and bustling modern avenues.

The undisputed highlight is the Forbidden City, a sprawling palace complex that once housed emperors and their households for over 500 years. Wander through its intricate courtyards, admire the opulent halls, and imagine the grandeur of imperial life. Allow ample time to soak in the sheer scale and architectural brilliance of this UNESCO World Heritage site – at least half a day if you are a history buff. The kids feedback that it was the most tiring day/ walk for them among the entire trip. Due to time constraint we just drove past the Tiananmen Square on the way back to the hotel for a good rest.

A short drive from the city center lies the awe-inspiring Great Wall, snaking across the undulating mountains like a colossal dragon. We choose a less crowded section like Mutianyu for a more serene experience and breathtaking panoramic views. Consider taking a cable car up and tobogganing down for a touch of adventure! We decided to walk up to Tower 8.

Immerse yourself in the spiritual ambiance of the Temple of Heaven, where emperors once prayed for a bountiful harvest. Witness locals practicing tai chi , immerse themselves in the glory of the QING Dynasty by wearing the costume during that era and engaging in traditional activities in the surrounding park, offering a glimpse into everyday Beijing life.

In the evenings, indulge in the world-renowned Peking Duck, a culinary masterpiece with crispy skin and succulent meat. After dinner take a stroll through the vibrant shopping streets of Wangfujing or Sanlitun (we missed this for this trip , but may visit here in our next trip), experiencing the city’s modern pulse. Beyond the historical landmarks, Beijing pulsates with modern energy. Don’t forget to visit the Confucius Temple in Beijing. Beijing boast the 2nd largest Confucius Temple after QUFU – the hometown of Confucius himself.

Xi’an: Echoes of the First Emperor

A high-speed train whisks us away to Xi’an, an ancient capital that holds one of the most significant archaeological discoveries in the world. It is about a 4 hours plus comfortable journey.

The star attraction is undoubtedly the Terracotta Army, a breathtaking collection of life-sized terracotta warriors and horses buried with China’s first emperor, Qin Shi Huang. Marvel at the sheer scale and intricate detail of this silent army, each figure with unique facial features and expressions. The accompanying museum provides invaluable context to this incredible historical find.

After the long walk , we entertain ourselves to a good lunch by the tour guide and a theater performance of the Silk Road.

Visit the Big Wild Goose Pagoda, a significant Buddhist site that once housed valuable scriptures brought from India. In “Journey to the West,” the main monk is Tang Sanzang, also known as Tripitaka or the Tang Monk. He is a Buddhist monk who embarks on a pilgrimage to India (known as Tianzhu Kingdom) to retrieve Buddhist scriptures for China.

Due to time constraint – some of the places we missed were:-

– the Shaanxi History Museum, which houses an extensive collection of artifacts spanning thousands of years of Shaanxi province’s rich history, providing a broader understanding of the region’s cultural significance. The tickets are limited and therefore need to book early.

– Wander through the bustling Muslim Quarter, a vibrant hub of local life, aromatic street food, and traditional crafts. Sample local delicacies like roujiamo (Chinese hamburger) and various noodle dishes.

However on the way to the airport , we did request the taxi driver (who was very kind to oblige ) to drive through the well-preserved Ancient City Walls, the Bell Tower and Drum Tower in the city center for a glimpse into Xi’an’s historical layout.

Shanghai: A Symphony of Modernity and Colonial Charm

Our final destination is Shanghai, a dazzling metropolis that epitomizes China’s rapid economic growth and global influence. This vibrant city seamlessly blends its colonial past with a futuristic skyline. But we spend only a short 3 days 2 nights here in Shanghai.

Begin your exploration along The Bund, Shanghai’s iconic waterfront promenade lined with grand colonial-era buildings on one side and the futuristic skyline of Pudong across the Huangpu River. Take a leisurely stroll and soak in the breathtaking views, especially at night when the city lights up in a spectacular display. For a more traditional shopping experience, visit the Yuyuan Garden Bazaar, a lively area filled with traditional Chinese architecture, teahouses, and souvenir shops.

Shanghai’s modern financial district dominated by towering skyscrapers like the Shanghai Tower, the Jin Mao Tower, and the distinctive Oriental Pearl TV Tower located on the Pudong side. Due tot he short time here , we did not manage to ascend one of these giants for unparalleled panoramic views of the sprawling cityscape, however these can be clearly admired from the Bund located on the Puxi side. Shanghai is separated into the Pudong ( East) and Puxi ( West) by the Huangpu River.

There are many things to explore in Shanghai i.e. the charming French Concession, with its tree-lined streets, European-style architecture, boutique shops, and trendy cafes. This area offers a more relaxed and romantic atmosphere, reminiscent of old Shanghai ; Nanjing Road, one of the world’s busiest shopping streets, a vibrant spectacle of neon lights and bustling crowds, nightlife at XINTIANTI , TIAN JI FANG etc.

A holiday trip encompassing Beijing, Xi’an, and Shanghai offers a captivating journey through China’s rich tapestry of history, culture, and modernity. From the imperial grandeur of Beijing to the ancient wonders of Xi’an and the dazzling dynamism of Shanghai, this itinerary promises an unforgettable adventure filled with awe-inspiring sights, cultural immersion, and culinary delights. Prepare to be enchanted by the captivating charm and vibrant energy of this fascinating nation.

PS: I wrote this article with the help pf AI