4 Days Private Highlights Tour to Beijing and Shanghai

Set out on a captivating journey through the contrasting landscapes of Beijing and Shanghai, two of China’s most iconic cities. Over the course of four immersive days, travelers will explore a wealth of cultural wonders, from the majestic Great Wall to the serene gardens of Yu Garden. Between these historic landmarks, the tour offers a glimpse into the dynamic urban landscapes, where towering skyscrapers and bustling commercial districts showcase China’s rapid modernization. Whether you’re intrigued by ancient traditions or mesmerized by the country’s rapid progress, this highlights tour promises to deliver an unforgettable experience that will leave you yearning to uncover more of China’s captivating allure.

This experience made our list of the 16 Best 4 Day Tours In Beijing.

Key Points

• Explore the iconic landmarks of Beijing, including Tiananmen Square, Forbidden City, and Temple of Heaven, to gain insights into China’s rich history and cultural heritage.
• Discover the magnificence of the Badaling section of the Great Wall, and visit the historic Ming Tombs and the modern Olympic Park for a comprehensive cultural experience.
• Travel comfortably by high-speed rail from Beijing to Shanghai, and explore the city’s classic attractions like the Yu Garden, Chenghuang Temple, and the bustling Nanjing Road shopping district.
• Admire the iconic Oriental Pearl Tower and enjoy panoramic views of the stunning Shanghai skyline, a blend of historic and modern architectural marvels.
• Set out on a scenic drive through the Pudong New Area, witnessing the rapid transformation of Shanghai’s cityscape and gaining insights into the city’s urban planning and development.

Beijing Highlights

On the first day, the tour explores Beijing’s iconic landmarks.

Visitors start with a visit to Tiananmen Square, the world’s largest public square, known for its historical significance.

Next, they explore the Forbidden City, the imperial palace that was home to China’s emperors for centuries, marveling at the grand architecture and cultural insights.

The tour then moves to the Temple of Heaven, a complex of religious buildings where emperors performed important ceremonies.

Great Wall and Cultural Sites

The second day of the tour takes visitors to several cultural sites outside the city. First, guests will visit the Ming Tombs, the historical burial site of Emperor Yongle, and explore a jade culture exhibition. Next, they will head to the iconic Badaling section of the Great Wall, where they can choose to hike along the ancient fortifications or take a cable car for panoramic views. The tour also includes a stop at the Olympic Park, allowing participants to snap photos of the famous Birds Nest and Water Cube stadiums.

Attraction	Duration
Ming Tombs	1 hour
Badaling Great Wall	2 hours
Olympic Park	30 minutes

High-Speed Train to Shanghai

With the first part of the tour in Beijing complete, the journey transitions to the bustling city of Shanghai via high-speed rail.

Travelers will enjoy the comfort and convenience of a morning transfer on the high-speed train, which covers the 1,318 km (819 miles) between the two cities in just over 5 hours. This modern mode of transportation provides a scenic ride showcasing the diverse landscapes of China.

Upon arrival in Shanghai, the tour continues with visits to the city’s historic Yu Garden, the traditional Chenghuang Temple, and the famous Nanjing Road shopping district, offering a glimpse into the vibrant culture and rapid modernization of this dynamic metropolis.

Exploring Yu Garden and Chenghuang Temple

Upon arriving in Shanghai, the tour takes visitors to explore the city’s historic Yu Garden. This classical Chinese garden is known for its unique architecture, intricate designs, and peaceful ambiance.

Guests can stroll through the scenic landscape, admiring the ornate pavilions, bridges, and ponds.

After the Yu Garden, the tour proceeds to the Chenghuang Temple, a traditional place of worship with roots dating back to the 15th century.

Visitors can enjoy the temple’s architectural splendor and browse the lively street food stalls nearby, savoring authentic local delicacies.

This exploration of Shanghai’s classic and cultural sites provides a well-rounded understanding of the city’s rich heritage.

Nanjing Road and Shopping District

After exploring the tranquil Yu Garden and the traditional Chenghuang Temple, the tour then takes visitors to experience the vibrant Nanjing Road, Shanghai’s famous shopping district.

Stretching for over 3 miles, Nanjing Road is a bustling hub of activity, lined with high-end stores, restaurants, and entertainment venues. Visitors can wander along the pedestrian-friendly streets, taking in the lively atmosphere and soaking up the energy of this iconic shopping destination.

From luxury boutiques to street markets, Nanjing Road offers a diverse array of shopping opportunities, catering to all tastes and budgets.

Whether you’re in the mood for some retail therapy or simply want to soak up the local culture, this iconic Shanghai landmark is a must-visit during the tour.

Oriental Pearl Tower and City Views

What better way to cap off the Shanghai portion of the tour than with a visit to the iconic Oriental Pearl Tower?

Rising 1,535 feet into the sky, this architectural marvel offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city’s stunning skyline. Travelers can ascend to the observation decks and marvel at the futuristic skyscrapers of the Pudong district below.

The tower’s unique design, featuring spheres of various sizes, creates a striking silhouette against the modern cityscape. After taking in the panoramic vistas, guests can explore the tower’s exhibits, which provide insights into Shanghai’s rapid transformation into a global financial hub.

This final stop perfectly encapsulates the juxtaposition of old and new that defines the city.

The Bund and Modern Skyline

The Bund, an iconic architectural complex, offers visitors a captivating juxtaposition of the city’s historic and modern elements.

Stretching along the Huangpu River, the Bund showcases a stunning array of buildings that reflect Shanghai’s rich history and dynamic transformation.

Visitors can stroll along the promenade, marveling at the neo-Renaissance, Gothic, and Baroque-style buildings that stand in sharp contrast to the skyscrapers of the Pudong district across the river.

The experience evokes a sense of:

1. Awe at the sheer scale and grandeur of the architecture.
2. Wonder at the city’s harmonious blend of past and present.
3. Excitement for the vibrant energy of Shanghai’s modern skyline.

Pudong New Area Scenic Drive

From the iconic Bund, the tour continues with a scenic drive through the Pudong New Area, showcasing Shanghai’s remarkable transformation.

Passengers witness the city’s stunning skyline, with towering skyscrapers and futuristic architecture dominating the landscape. The drive offers a panoramic view of the Huangpu River and the financial district, providing a glimpse into Shanghai’s rapid development and status as a global economic powerhouse.

Along the way, the guide shares insights into the city’s urban planning and the significance of this rapidly evolving district. The 30-minute drive allows participants to fully appreciate the scale and ambition of Shanghai’s modern cityscape.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Maximum Group Size for This Tour?

The tour’s maximum group size is not explicitly stated. However, the price range provided suggests it accommodates a variable group size, likely ranging from small private tours to larger groups, though the specific maximum is unclear.

Are Child Rates Available?

Yes, child rates are available for this tour. Children under 12 years old receive a discounted price, though the exact rate may vary depending on the group size and other factors. Customers should inquire about child pricing when booking.

Can I Customize the Itinerary?

Customers can generally customize the itinerary of this tour, though some activities may be required. The tour operator can work with customers to modify the schedule and activities based on their preferences and interests.

Can We Add Any Extra Stops or Activities?

The tour operator offers a customizable itinerary, allowing travelers to add extra stops or activities. They’ll work with customers to tailor the experience based on their interests and needs, providing a personalized tour.

What Kind of Payment Methods Are Accepted?

The tour operator accepts various payment methods, including credit cards, debit cards, and online transfers. Customers can conveniently book and pay for the tour through the operator’s website or by contacting their customer service team.

Recap

This captivating 4-day private highlights tour offers travelers an immersive experience in Beijing and Shanghai. Explore iconic landmarks, explore rich cultural heritage, and witness the cities’ contrasting blend of history and modernity. From the grandeur of the Forbidden City to the stunning views atop the Oriental Pearl Tower, this tour provides a well-rounded glimpse into China’s remarkable diversity.