Beijing & Shanghai Culinary Discovery: A 9-Day Food Lover's Journey

Begin early with a traditional Beijing breakfast featuring a selection of local favorites such as jianbing, doufunao, douzhi or jiaoquan. Continue to the Temple of Heaven and observe the morning activities of local residents beneath the ancient cypress trees. Later, explore Nanluoguxiang and the surrounding hutongs, with a small selection of classic Beijing snacks along the way. Then with a relaxed walk through Yandai Xiejie and around Shichahai. Next, head to a traditional courtyard kitchen and join a Chinese cooking class, learning to make handmade dumplings and enjoying the dumplings you made yourself for dinner, experiencing a beloved part of Chinese family dining culture before concluding the day.

Breakfast at the hotel, then head to the Forbidden City in the morning. Walk through its grand halls, courtyards, and imperial gardens, discovering the rich history and architectural legacy of the Ming and Qing dynasties.

In the afternoon, visit Bairong World Trade Mall, known as the “Little Yiwu of Northern China,” a bustling wholesale market filled with clothing, accessories, household goods, and everyday products. Wander through its lively shopping halls and experience a different side of Beijing’s commercial culture.

In the evening, enjoy an authentic Peking Duck dinner, featuring crisp roasted duck served with traditional pancakes, sweet bean sauce, cucumber, and scallions.

Begin the morning with a visit to the Mutianyu Great Wall, one of the best-preserved sections of the Great Wall of China. Walk along its restored watchtowers and stone ramparts while enjoying sweeping views of the surrounding mountains and forests.

After returning to Beijing, spend the afternoon exploring the city at a relaxed pace, with time to experience its historic neighborhoods and local atmosphere.

End the day with a traditional Beijing-style copper hot pot dinner, featuring thinly sliced mutton, fresh vegetables, tofu, and handmade noodles cooked in a classic charcoal-heated copper pot, a beloved culinary tradition that reflects the warmth and convivial spirit of Beijing dining.

In the morning, visit the Summer Palace, a masterpiece of classical Chinese garden design. Stroll along Kunming Lake, explore the Long Corridor, Longevity Hill, and elegant royal architecture, and discover the unique harmony between nature and imperial artistry during the Qing Dynasty.

In the afternoon, transfer to Beijing Railway Station and take a high-speed train to Shanghai, a journey of approximately 4.5 hours. Upon arrival, your Shanghai guide will meet you at the station and transfer you to your hotel. Enjoy a free evening to explore the city streets and begin the next chapter of your Jiangnan culinary and cultural experience.