11-Day Golden Triangle: Beijing, Xi’an, Nanjing, Suzhou, Hangzhou & Shanghai

Day 1 Arrive Beijing

Destination: Beijing
Meals Included: Dinner at a halal restaurant
Accommodations: 4-star Mercure Beijing Downtown or similar

Upon arrival at the airport, your friendly Muslim expert guide will greet you and whisk you away in a private vehicle to your hotel. Enjoy the rest of your day at leisure.

Day 2 Tiananmen Square, Forbidden City, Niujie Mosque, Temple of Heaven

Destination: Beijing
Meals Included: Breakfast at hotel, lunch & dinner at halal restaurants
Salat Prayer: Niujie Mosque
Accommodations: 4-star Mercure Beijing Downtown or similar

Begin your exploration of Beijing at Tiananmen Square, the largest city square in the world. This vast space has seen many pivotal events, including the founding of the People’s Republic of China in 1949. A leisurely stroll leads you to the Forbidden City, the imperial heart of China for over five centuries. This magnificent palace complex served as the residence of 24 emperors from the Ming and Qing dynasties, witnessing the rise and fall of imperial power. After Salat prayer at Niujie Mosque, visit the Temple of Heaven. Built between 1406 and 1420 by the emperor who also commissioned the Forbidden City, this sacred site was where the Ming and Qing emperors would honor the god of heaven and pray for a good harvest.

Day 3 Great Wall of China, Ming Tombs (Dingling Tomb)

Destination: Beijing
Meals Included: Breakfast at hotel, lunch & dinner at halal restaurants
Salat Prayer: Local mosque
Accommodations: 4-star Mercure Beijing Downtown or similar

Your morning unfolds with an exploration of the iconic Great Wall of China and a visit to a jade carving factory. This colossal fortification, a continuous undertaking from the 3rd century BC to the 17th century AD, snakes across China’s northern frontier for an astounding 3,750 miles, from the shores of the Bohai Sea to the vast expanse of the Gobi Desert. In the afternoon, explore the Dingling Tomb, the only excavated Ming Tomb. Constructed for the 13 emperors of the Ming Dynasty, the Ming Tombs follow traditional Chinese geomancy and fengshui principles. They are adorned with intricate stone statues, carvings, and dragon motif tiles, showcasing the evolution of Ming Dynasty funerary architecture.

Day 4 Summer Palace, High Speed Train to Xian

Destination: Beijing & Xi’an
Meals Included: Breakfast at hotel, lunch & dinner at halal restaurants
Accommodations: 4-star Novotel Xi’an The Bell Tower or similar

Start your day with a visit to the Summer Palace, China’s largest and best-preserved royal garden. Centered around Kunming Lake and Longevity Hill, the Summer Palace intricately blends political, residential, spiritual, and recreational elements. It harmonizes the natural beauty of hills and water with man-made structures like pavilions, halls, palaces, temples, and bridges, embodying the Chinese philosophy of balancing human creation with nature. This fusion creates a landscape of exceptional aesthetic value. Our itinerary includes a visit to a freshwater pearl store, offering an opportunity to browse and purchase these lustrous gems cultivated in local waters. In the afternoon, take a high-speed train (approx. 5 hours) to Xi’an. This renowned ancient capital of China marks the eastern end of the historic Silk Road, a crucial trade route linking East and West.

Day 5 Terracotta Army & Xi’an City Highlights

Destination: Xi’an
Meals Included: Breakfast at hotel, lunch & dinner at halal restaurants
Salat Prayer: Local mosque
Accommodations: 4-star Novotel Xi’an The Bell Tower or similar

Start your day with a wonder of the world – the Terracotta Army! Discovered by accident in 1974, this 2,000-year-old army of over 8,000 life-sized warriors stands guard over the tomb of Qin Shihuang, China’s first emperor. See some replicas being made nearby and learn the secrets of these ancient figures. Back to the city, stroll along the ancient City Wall of Xi’an, the oldest and best-preserved city wall in China. Walk atop the wall to enjoy panoramic views of the Xi’an skyline. Next, admire the imposing Big Wild Goose Pagoda (outside view), a 1,300-year-old architectural marvel. Conclude your day by immersing yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of the Grand Tang Dynasty Ever Bright City, a captivating recreation of ancient Xi’an, featuring bustling markets, captivating performances, and stunning Tang-style architecture.

Day 6 Explore Xi’an, Bullet Train to Nanjing

Destination: Xian & Nanjing
Meals Included: Breakfast at hotel, lunch & dinner at halal restaurants
Salat Prayer: Great Mosque of Xi’an
Accommodations: 4-star Mercure Nanjing Downtown or similar

Journey back in time to the Tang Dynasty at the Small Wild Goose Pagoda, a 1,300-year-old marvel showcasing China’s traditional brick pagodas. Next, immerse yourself in Xi’an’s history at the Xi’an Museum, which narrates the ancient tales of Xi’an as the capital of 13 dynasties spanning over 1,100 years. Visit the Great Mosque of Xi’an, one of China’s oldest and most renowned mosques. Finally, lose yourself in the labyrinthine alleys of the Muslim Quarter filled with street food, restaurants, and the vibrant energy of Xi’an’s 60,000-strong Muslim community. Ride a bullet train to Nanjing (approx. 5 hours).

Day 7 Presidential Palace, Xuanwu Lake, Confucius Temple, Transfer to Suzhou

Destination: Nanjing, Suzhou
Meals Included: Breakfast at hotel, lunch & dinner at halal restaurants
Salat Prayer: Local mosque
Accommodations: 4-star Mercure Suzhou City Center or similar

Step back in time at the Presidential Palace, the former seat of the Republic of China government from 1927 to 1949. Explore the grand architecture and delve into the fascinating history of this pivotal era. Experience the tranquility of Xuanwu Lake, a scenic gem renowned for its history, temples, and surrounding parks. Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the lake and soak in the peaceful atmosphere. Uncover the legacy of learning at Nanjing Confucius Temple, a vital hub for scholars and examinations for centuries. Explore the serene courtyards, admire the intricate architecture, and gain insights into the profound impact of Confucianism on Chinese society. Transfer to Suzhou in the afternoon (approx. 1.5 hours).

Day 8 Explore Suzhou, Transfer to Hangzhou

Destination: Suzhou, Hangzhou
Meals Included: Breakfast at hotel, lunch & dinner at halal restaurants
Salat Prayer: Local mosque
Accommodations: 4-star Mercure Hangzhou West Lake or similar

After breakfast, immerse yourself in the beauty of the Humble Administrator’s Garden, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned as the finest garden in southern China. Delve into the world of silk at a silk factory, where you can witness the remarkable transformation from silkworm to luxurious fabric. Explore the historic Panmen Gate, a 2,400-year-old gateway to the city. Discover the allure of Tiger Hill, a UNESCO-listed gem boasting stunning landscapes, ancient architecture, and rich history. Experience the charm of Suzhou’s past on Shantang Street, a 1,200-year-old thoroughfare lined with traditional shops and residences. Watch as wooden boats glide beneath arched bridges, creating a picturesque scene reminiscent of the Tang Dynasty. Transfer to Hangzhou in the afternoon.

Day 9 Explore Hangzhou, Transfer to Shanghai

Destination: Hangzhou, Shanghai
Meals Included: Breakfast at hotel, lunch & dinner at halal restaurants
Salat Prayer: Phoenix Mosque
Accommodations: 4-star Ocean Hotel or similar

Begin your day with a leisurely cruise on West Lake, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Glide across the calm waters, admire the stunning scenery of pagodas, gardens, and temples that dot the lake’s shores. Next, Delve into China’s tea culture at China National Tea Museum. This impressive institution houses an extensive collection of tea artifacts, including historical tea sets, brewing tools, and ancient tea leaves. Head to Meijiawu Tea Culture Village. This picturesque village is nestled amidst lush tea plantations and offers a glimpse into the daily lives of tea farmers. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll along Qinghefang Street, a charming pedestrian street lined with traditional shops, tea houses, and restaurants. Transfer to Shanghai (approx. 2 hours).

Day 10 Explore Shanghai

Destination: Shanghai
Meals Included: Breakfast at hotel, lunch & dinner at halal restaurants
Salat Prayer: Xiaotaoyuan Mosque
Accommodations: 4-star Ocean Hotel Shanghai or similar

Begin your Shanghai adventure at Yuyuan Garden, a labyrinth of Ming Dynasty pavilions, intricate rockeries, arched bridges, and goldfish ponds, all enveloped by a serpentine dragon wall. Follow this with a shopping spree at the bustling Chenghuangmiao market just outside the garden. Next, ascend the Oriental Pearl Tower for a breathtaking 360-degree view of Shanghai’s skyline. Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the Bund, Shanghai’s famous 1.6 km waterfront on the west shore of the Huangpu River, and explore the vibrant Nanjing Road, one of the busiest shopping streets in the world. Conclude your day with a walk through the charming French Concession, where tree-lined avenues and elegant old houses evoke the spirit of the “Paris of the East.” Afterwards, savor a delightful tea break and explore the vibrant Tianzifang, a captivating blend of local culture and contemporary art.

Day 11 Depart Shanghai

Meals Included: Breakfast at hotel

A private transfer to the airport will be provided for your departure. If you would like to extend your stay, please let us know and we would be delighted to assist you in customizing your itinerary. Have a wonderful trip!