The Imperial Capitals

🕑 9 Days

📍 Beijing & Nanjing

🕑 9 Days

📍 Beijing & Nanjing

Step back through the centuries in China’s former imperial capitals—where ancient dynasties ruled, scholars debated, and emperors walked palace corridors. This journey through Beijing and Nanjing offers a deep dive into China’s historical heart.

About This Tour

Begin in Beijing, China’s long-standing political center and cultural capital. Wander among dynastic palaces and hike the Great Wall.

Then head south to Nanjing, once the capital of multiple Chinese dynasties. Stroll through stone archways, explore lakeside temples, and uncover the grandeur and tragedy of China’s past in this underappreciated gem.

Highlights

Walking through China’s dynastic past at the Forbidden City, Temple of Heaven, and Summer Palace
Climbing the scenic and less-crowded Mutianyu section of the Great Wall
Exploring Nanjing’s imperial legacy at the Presidential Palace and Ming City Walls
Strolling along the lantern-lit Qinhuai River and sampling riverside street food
Reflecting on modern history at the Nanjing Massacre Memorial and Purple Mountain

Photos

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Beijing

Morning: Arrive in Beijing and transfer to your hotel in the city center.
Afternoon: Take a gentle stroll through a nearby park or explore a local hutong neighborhood.
Evening: Enjoy a welcome dinner with classic Beijing dishes like zhajiangmian or roast duck.

Day 2: The Forbidden City & Tiananmen Square

Morning: Visit Tiananmen Square and walk through the gates into the vast Forbidden City.
Afternoon: Explore Jingshan Park for panoramic views over the palace rooftops.
Evening: Optional: Attend a Peking Opera performance or dine in the historic Dashilan area.

Day 3: The Great Wall at Mutianyu

Morning: Drive out to Mutianyu and climb or cable-car up to the wall; enjoy sweeping mountain views.
Afternoon: Enjoy a countryside lunch and, if time allows, visit a nearby village or orchard.
Evening: Return to Beijing and relax at a teahouse or try a modern bistro in the Sanlitun area.

Day 4: Temples, Palaces & Parks

Morning: Visit the Temple of Heaven, where emperors once prayed for good harvests.
Afternoon: Stroll the grounds of the Summer Palace, with its lakes, bridges, and pavilions.
Evening: Explore a lively night market or take a relaxing walk around Houhai Lakes.

Day 5: High-Speed Train to Nanjing

Morning: Take a high-speed train from Beijing to Nanjing (approx. 4 hours).
Afternoon: Check into your hotel, then explore Xuanwu Lake Park near the old city walls.
Evening: Dine along the Confucius Temple area, known for local snacks and lit-up riverside views.

Day 6: Imperial and Republican History

Morning: Visit the Presidential Palace, where emperors, revolutionaries, and presidents once governed.
Afternoon: Walk along a preserved stretch of the Ming City Walls for views over the city.
Evening: Try traditional Jiangsu cuisine, like salted duck or lion’s head meatballs.

Day 7: Remembering & Reflecting

Morning: Spend time at the Nanjing Massacre Memorial Hall, a powerful tribute to 20th-century history.
Afternoon: Visit a local museum or take time to relax in Laomendong, an artsy restored old town area.
Evening: Optional: enjoy a cultural performance or sip tea by the Qinhuai River.

Day 8: Purple Mountain & Cultural Legacy

Morning: Take a cable car or hike up Purple Mountain to visit Sun Yat-sen’s Mausoleum.
Afternoon: Explore nearby sites like the Ming Xiaoling Tomb or the Linggu Temple complex.
Evening: Enjoy your final night with a farewell dinner in a historic courtyard-style restaurant.

Day 9: Departure from Nanjing

Morning: Have a relaxed breakfast or visit a local morning market.
Afternoon: Transfer to the train station or airport for your departure.
Evening: Onward journey with a deeper understanding of China’s imperial and modern past.

What's Included

Private chauffeur service to and from the airport at the start and end of the trip.
All transfers by car, train, or plane with booking assistance.
Admission fees and activities as indicated in the itinerary.
English/Spanish-speaking guide.
Assistance with hotel reservations throughout the trip.
Local SIM card with data or support for eSIM.

How to Book Your Adventure

Save your Spot

Once you’re happy with the itinerary, simply confirm your booking and make the payment to reserve your adventure.

Enjoy your Journey

From your arrival to your last stop, we’re here to make sure every part of your adventure runs smoothly.

Let’s Talk

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Tailored Planning

We design a custom itinerary that matches your interests—whether you’re into nature, food, culture, or a bit of everything.