7 days Beijing Shanghai Tour by High-speed Train

Welcome to Beijing! Upon arrival at Beijing airport or any train station, meet your private driver (w/o guide) for a comfortable transfer to your hotel. The rest of the day is free to relax or explore the city on your own. Overnight in Beijing.

On your first day of sightseeing in Beijing, start with a visit to Tiananmen Square, the largest public square in the world and a gathering place for celebrations of traditional Chinese festivals and significant events.

From Tiananmen Square, walk to the north end to enter the majestic Forbidden City. Explore this ancient architectural complex and imagine life as one of the 24 Chinese emperors who once ruled and discussed national affairs within its walls.

Then proceed to Jingshan Park, it was a part of the Forbidden City until the early 1900's when the walls were pulled down and a road cut through it destroying several gates and buildings between the park and the rear entrance of the palace

In the afternoon drive to visit the Summer Palace, it's a royal garden that surrounding Kunming Lake and Longevity Hill are more traditionally known as Wanshou Shan. This palace was built by the emperors during Qing dynasty as a summertime retreat. You will easily see many spectacular gardens, palaces, and temples throughout. In the evening, you may choose to enjoy the Kong Fu Show or Peking Opera(Optional).

Start your morning at the Temple of Heaven, where emperors once held grand ceremonies to pray for good harvests. The highlight is the Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests, famous for its elegant three-tiered circular roof. Arriving early gives you the chance to watch locals practicing tai chi, dancing, or playing traditional games, offering a warm and lively glimpse into daily Beijing life.

Next, continue to the historic Shichahai area in old Beijing. Visit a traditional courtyard home and enjoy a Hutong tour by rickshaw through narrow lanes that preserve the charm of a bygone era. You will also have time to explore Yandai Xiejie and the nearby Drum Tower, both rich in culture and local flavor.

Later, visit Gongwang Fu, or Prince Gong’s Mansion, once the residence of a prominent Qing dynasty statesman. Its grand halls, graceful courtyards, and beautifully designed gardens reflect the elegance and sophistication of Beijing’s imperial past. As you wander through the complex, your guide will share stories that bring the history of the mansion to life.

In the afternoon, take a high-speed train from Beijing to Shanghai, a journey that lasts about 4.5 hours. Upon arrival, your guide and driver in Shanghai will pick you up at train station and transfer you to hotel. Overnight in Shanghai.

In the morning, your guide will take you to Yu Garden, one of the finest Suzhou-style gardens, where you can admire its stunning views and delicately designed architecture dating back to the Ming Dynasty. Then, wander through Shanghai's Old Street to experience the local lifestyle. Next, visit the French Concession - Xin Tian Di, known for its unique blend of old and new architecture and a lively area filled with boutique shops, art galleries, upscale restaurants, and bars. 
After lunch, proceed to the Oriental Pearl Tower, a landmark of Shanghai, to enjoy a panoramic view of the entire city, particularly the spectacular scenery along the Bund. Then, stroll through the vibrant Shanghai Bund and Nanjing Road shopping area. In the evening, you have the option to take a cruise on the Huangpu River or watch an acrobatic show (both are optional and fees are not included). Overnight in Shanghai.

After breakfast, drive to Zhouzhuang, one of China’s best-preserved water towns located between Shanghai and Suzhou. With a history of nearly 1,000 years, Zhouzhuang is famous for its network of canals, ancient stone bridges, and traditional houses from the Ming and Qing dynasties.

Stroll along the narrow lanes and riverside paths, or take a relaxing boat ride along the canals to enjoy classic views of arched bridges and white-washed courtyard homes.

In the afternoon, visit Shen’s Residence, an elegant 18th-century merchant compound built in 1742. Its courtyards, carved gateways and more than 100 rooms offer a vivid picture of life in a wealthy family during the Qing dynasty.

Afterward, continue exploring the town’s peaceful streets or enjoy a quiet moment by the water before driving back to Shanghai in the afternoon. Overnight in Shanghai.

Enjoy some free time this morning to explore Shanghai on your own. Your guide can offer suggestions based on your interests. When ready, you’ll be transferred to Shanghai Airport or the train station for your departure.

If you’d like to continue your China journey, WindhorseTour can help plan extensions to destinations such as Xi’an, Guilin, Chengdu or Zhangjiajie tailored to your interests.