This 10-day air-expedition links Beijing, Xi’an and Shanghai—blending the Great Wall’s mountain walks with the Terracotta Army’s archaeology and Shanghai’s modern skyline. Expect varied walking, high-speed rail, one internal flight and cultural deep-dives.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Arrive in Beijing and the city unfolds: wide boulevards give way to narrow Hutong alleys, and early-morning tai chi practitioners punctuate the urban hum. On day three the landscape changes—granite ridgelines shoulder the Ming-era Great Wall, which climbs and challenges walkers, while terracotta figures in Xi’an hold the quiet weight of imperial ambition. By the time travelers reach Shanghai the skyline pushes upward, glass and steel leaning toward the Huangpu River.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
10 days
Fitness Level
Light-to-moderate fitness: able to walk several miles a day, climb uneven steps and handle stairs at historic sites.
Wildlife
History
The Great Wall’s most visible sections were expanded during the Ming Dynasty (14th–17th centuries); Qin Shi Huang’s Terracotta Army dates to the 3rd century BCE as funerary guardians for China’s first emperor.
Conservation
High visitor numbers stress fragile sites—stay on designated paths at the Wall and follow site rules at the Terracotta Museum to protect artifacts and historic fabric.
Reserve your spot on the 10-Day Beijing, Xian & Shanghai Air-Expedition today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Break in the Great Wall sections
Choose the Mutianyu or less-crowded sections for easier, well-maintained steps and built-in rest spots.
Comfortable footwear
Wear shoes with good traction—Wall steps can be steep and uneven; city walking adds long pavement distances.
Hydration and sun protection
Bring a refillable bottle and sunscreen—summer heat in northern China can be intense.
Cash and mobile payments
Carry some cash for small markets and a mobile payment app or a card that works in China for larger purchases.
Sturdy walking shoes
Provide grip and ankle support for Wall sections and long city days.
Daypack
Holds water, layers, documents and camera for daily excursions.
Lightweight rain jacket
Useful during spring showers and variable weather at outdoor sites.
spring
Universal travel adapter
China uses Type A, I and C plugs depending on location—an adapter keeps devices charged.