Flipping through the Annals of Time in China with Andre

duration
10 days · 9 nights
travel date
Oct 11 – 20, 2025
activity level
Light
group size
6 – 8
transportation
Van, boat, train
Your TourHero
tourhero
Andre Carrillo
bio

My name is Andre Carrillo. I was born and raised in California and lived in Taiwan from 2018 to 2024 as an English teacher and content creator. I have been to more than 20 countries in the past ten years for both traveling and studying purposes. I primarily make experience-based and outdoor-related travel content on Instagram, along with a bit of comedic flair for personality and style. I'd love to meet you and take you along my trips around the world!

China > Flipping through the Annals of Time in China with Andre

China's history spans thousands of years, and we're going to spend 10 days flipping through its pages. Get ready to travel through time! From the hustle and bustle of Shanghai’s neon-lit streets to the ancient wonder of the Great Wall, we'll go from imperial palaces to modern malls, all in a day. Savor street snacks in Xi'an, explore Shanghai, hike the majestic Jinshanling section of the Great Wall, wander through the Forbidden City, and experience modern China in Beijing. Whether it’s your first glimpse of the Terracotta Warriors or a peaceful boat ride around the Summer Palace, each day on the trip will leave you in awe of the past and the present. Come write this story with me!

Itinerary timeline
Day 1 · October 11, 2025 · Shanghai
Arrive at airport in Shanghai
Group transfer from airport to accommodation
Check-in at Shanghai Kingtown Plaza Hotel (or similar according to availability)
4 pm: Welcome meeting
Leader-led walking tour
Dinner
Day 2 · October 12, 2025 · Wuxi & Shanghai
Breakfast
Bullet train ride to Wuxi (30 mins)
Wuxi talking tour: Huishan Ancient Town, Jichang Garden
Lunch (not included in price)
Return to Shanghai
Free time
Dinner
Day 3 · October 13, 2025 · Shanghai
Breakfast
Free day
Lunch and dinner (not included in price)
Day 4 · October 14, 2025 · Xi'an
Breakfast and check out of accommodation
Bullet train ride to Xi'an
Xi'an walking tour: Muslim quarter, snacks sampling
Check-in at Xi'an Bell Tower Hotel (or similar according to availability)
Lunch and dinner (not included in price)
Day 5 · October 15, 2025 · Xi'an
Breakfast
Terracotta warriors tour
Return to Xi'an
Free time
Dinner
Day 6 · October 16, 2025 · Great Wall of China
Breakfast and check out of accommodation
High-speed train ride to Beijing
Depart for Great Wall of China
Check-in at family-run guesthouse near Great Wall of China
Free time
Lunch and dinner (not included in price)
Day 7 · October 17, 2025 · Great Wall of China & Beijing
Breakfast and check out of accommodation
Great Wall of China visit: Jinshanling section (2 hours)
Depart for Beijing
Check-in at Beijing Dong Fang Hotel (or similar according to availability)
Dinner
Day 8 · October 18, 2025 · Beijing
Breakfast (not included in price)
Beijing tour: Tiananmen Square, Forbidden City
Free time in the afternoon
Lunch and dinner (not included in price)
Day 9 · October 19, 2025 · Beijing
Breakfast (not included in price)
Temple of Heaven visit
Summer Palace visit
Lunch and dinner (not included in price)
Day 10 · October 20, 2025 · Departure
Breakfast (not included in price)
Check out of accommodation
Group transfer from accommodation to airport
Journey ends
Details
Day 1 · October 11, 2025
Arrive in Shanghai, a symbol of China's modernization

-Step off the plane and take in the buzz of China’s most dynamic city, Shanghai, where modernity and tradition beautifully collide.

-Sit back and relax as we journey through Shanghai’s vibrant streets, catching glimpses of its soaring skyline and historic charm. Settle into your comfortable room after checking in at the hotel.

-Gather with the group to get to know each other and learn more about the exciting days ahead. We'll dive into the itinerary and prepare for adventure!

-After the meeting, we'll head out for a walking tour on the bund – the perfect spot to see the nighttime skyline light up when the sun descends.

-The evening is yours to savor Shanghai’s culinary delights. Explore local restaurants and indulge in flavors ranging from street food to fine dining.

Day 2 · October 12, 2025
Zoom to Wuxi for a day of discovery

-Get ready for your first bullet train experience as we head to Wuxi, a prominent water town and now booming city. Zip from Shanghai to Wuxi in just 30 minutes—an exciting glimpse into China’s efficient transportation system.

-Immerse yourself in the history and charm of Huishan Ancient Town, followed by a peaceful stroll through the elegant Jichang Garden, a perfect blend of nature and architecture.

-Hop back on the bullet train and head back to Shanghai, enjoying the rest of the day free at leisure.

Day 3 · October 13, 2025
A day to explore Shanghai a your own pace

-Today is yours to explore Shanghai at your leisure. Wander through bustling markets, shop in stylish districts, or visit hidden gems that catch your eye—there’s endless discovery waiting.

Day 4 · October 14, 2025
Head to Xi'an, where history awaits discovery

-Enjoy a hearty breakfast before checking out and preparing for the next leg of your journey to Xi’an.

-On arrival, set off for a walking tour of the historic city. Wander through the ancient streets of the Muslim Quarter, then saunter along the alleyways sampling local delicacies.

Day 5 · October 15, 2025
Visit the Terracotta warriors of Xi'an

-Step back in time as you marvel at the awe-inspiring Terracotta Warriors, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where thousands of life-sized figures stand in silent watch over the tomb of Emperor Qin Shihuang's tomb, the emperor who unified China.

-After immersing yourself in the past, travel back to the city and enjoy free time to relax and reflect on the day's discoveries.

Day 6 · October 16, 2025
Set off for the Great Wall of China

-Savor one final breakfast in Xi'an before checking out and setting off for the next chapter of our adventure.

-Hop on the high-speed train and zoom through the picturesque Chinese countryside, arriving in Beijing in no time. From Beijing, we'll head to a local village near the Great Wall of China.

-Experience warm hospitality as you check in to a charming family-run guesthouse, offering a peaceful retreat just a stone’s throw away from the Great Wall.

-Spend the rest of the day luxuriating in the serenity of the village, or trek to the Great Wall of China for a short visit.

Day 7 · October 17, 2025
Exploring the Great Wall before returning to Beijing

-Start your day with a delightful breakfast before checking out and heading to a section of the Great Wall to see the wonder up close.

-Visit the Jinshanling section of the Great Wall, spending some time exploring, taking photos, and learning about the history of the world wonder.

-After your visit to the Great Wall, return to Beijing, ready to experience the city’s dynamic blend of history and modernity.

Day 8 · October 18, 2025
See Beijing's ancient past come to life

-Dive into China’s rich history with a visit to the iconic Tiananmen Square and the awe-inspiring Forbidden City, where centuries of imperial grandeur unfold before you.

-After the morning of historical immersion, enjoy free time to wander Beijing's districts.

Day 9 · October 19, 2025
One last evening in China

-Another day to dive into Beijing's ancient past and cultural heritage.

-Step into serenity as you visit the Temple of Heaven. It is a majestic complex where ancient emperors once prayed for good harvests and is surrounded by tranquil gardens and stunning architecture.

-Immerse yourself in the beauty of the Summer Palace, a sprawling imperial garden with scenic lakes, ornate pavilions, and captivating views.

-Spend one last evening in Beijing, the beating heart of China. Explore its modern malls and indulge in the local food fare.

Day 10 · October 20, 2025
Take care, and Zai Jian (see you again!)

-Over one final breakfast in China, reminisce about the profound cultural experiences from trip.

-After checking out, a group transfer will take us to the airport. Drive through Beijing's streets one last time.

-Our journey may be over, but the stories from our trip to China will be retold in the annals of our minds. Thank you for your company, and see you soon!

Tour Price
USD 2,399
per person
USD 500 deposit only
14 people are interested
Looks like this trip is getting views. Secure your spot now!
Your fellow explorers
Age range
21+
Travel interest
City, history, culture, relaxation, sightseeing
Fellow Travelers
2 total travelers
Kristian
Alec
Your local guide
Intrepid DMC, formerly Peak DMC, has been delivering destination management solutions for the world’s leading experiential travel brands for the last ten years. With 36 offices, 28 DMCs, and locations across five continents, Intrepid DMC, creates innovative products delivered by experienced local operators. Each year, they bring life-changing travel experiences to more than 170,000 people, and their relationships are built on trust and reliability and with their global network of established, secure and competitive businesses. For all things travel, Intrepid DMC has you covered.
Accommodation
Shanghai Kingtown Plaza Hotel (or similar according to availability)

Kingtown Hotel Plaza Shanghai offers a comfortable stay with well-appointed rooms and a range of on-site facilities. Each room features air conditioning, a flat-screen TV with international channels, a minibar, and tea/coffee making facilities. The bathrooms are equipped with a bathtub and shower, along with complimentary toiletries. Guests can enjoy free Wi-Fi throughout the hotel. On-site amenities include a fitness center, a restaurant serving both Chinese and Western cuisines, a café, and a business center with meeting rooms accommodating up to 385 people. Additional services such as laundry, car rental, and sightseeing tours are also available. The hotel is conveniently located near Xinzha Road Metro Station, providing easy access to various attractions in Shanghai. Room type: Double occupancy.

Xi’an Bell Tower Hotel (or similar according to availability)

Located in the heart of the city, Xi’an Bell Tower Hotel offers guests a comfortable place to call home in Xi'an. Each air-conditioned room features a flat-screen TV with cable channels, a minibar, a refrigerator, and a coffee/tea maker. The private bathrooms are equipped with deep soaking bathtubs, bathrobes, slippers, and complimentary toiletries. Free Wi-Fi throughout the hotel ensures guests stay connected. On-site amenities include a fitness center, a sauna, a business center, and meeting rooms. The hotel also offers a restaurant serving both Western and Chinese cuisines, a lobby bar, and room service. Its central location near the Bell Tower and Drum Tower Square provides easy access to various attractions in Xi'an. Room type: Double occupancy.

Beijing Dong Fang Hotel (or similar according to availability)

Luxurious yet quaint, Beijing Dong Fang Hotel is a choice hotel for guests to stay in when visiting China's capital city. Its rooms are simple yet well-equipped, featuring air conditioning, a flat-screen TV, a minibar, and tea and coffee making facilities. En-suite bathrooms are equipped with a shower, hairdryer, and complimentary toiletries. Wi-Fi is available throughout the hotel. Around the hotel grounds, guests can look forward to a restaurant serving Chinese and Western cuisines, a bar/lounge, a fitness center, and a garden area. The hotel also offers a business center, meeting rooms, and laundry services. Its central location provides easy access to major attractions in Beijing. Room type: Double occupancy.

Included
  • 3 nights in Shanghai Kingtown Hotel (or similar)

  • 2 nights in Xi'an Bell Tower Hotel (or similar)

  • 1 night in local family-run homestay

  • 3 nights in Beijing Dong Fang Hotel (or similar)

  • Shared double occupancy in accommodation

  • Breakfast on days 1 - 7

  • Dinner on days 1, 2, 5, 7

  • All activities described in the itinerary

  • One group airport arrival transfer

  • One group airport departure transfer

Not included
  • Flights

  • All food and drinks not mentioned in inclusions

  • Optional add-ons

  • Travel insurance

  • Gratuities

FAQ
Cancellation policy

Refunds for deposits
We will hold your spot as soon as you put down your deposit. However, if you decide to cancel your trip, we will be unable to refund your deposit.

Refunds for balance payment
If you cancel your trip on or before Jul 6, 2025 at 11:59 PM local time (GMT +8), you will get a refund of the remaining balance. This may or may not include the deposit amount. See deposit refund section above.

If you cancel your trip from Jul 7, 2025 at 12:00 AM local time (GMT +8) onwards, no refunds will be issued.

You can change or cancel your trip in your TourHero account by clicking on Your Trips.

Trip disclaimer
To offer the best group rates, we need a minimum number of travelers. If that number isn't met—or if unexpected events occur (such as force majeure)—TourHero, the trip host, and the tour operator may need to cancel or reschedule.


If changes happen: You'll be notified by Jul 6, 2025 at 11:59 PM local time (GMT +8), and if the trip is canceled or rescheduled beyond your control, you'll get a full refund. We'll always update you at least 7 days in advance if this date changes.


Book smart: We recommend refundable flights and accommodations to protect your plans from any last-minute changes.