13 Days 12 Nights
China, Japan
20
1
13 Days Beijing, Shanghai & Essential Japan
id:2603400
Day 20 – Sunday September 2026
Day 08 – Sunday November 2026
Day 22 – Sunday November 2026
Day 06 – Sunday December 2026
Day 20 – Sunday December 2026
Day 03 – Sunday January 2027
Day 17 – Sunday January 2027
Day 31 – Sunday January 2027
Day 14 – Sunday February 2027
Day 28 – Sunday February 2027
Overview
Overview
Journey through the very best of China and Japan on this 13-day adventure spanning two of Asia's most captivating countries. Begin in Beijing with an unforgettable excursion to the Great Wall's Mutianyu section, a deep dive into the capital's imperial history at Tiananmen Square and the Forbidden City, and cultural experiences including Tai Chi, a traditional foot massage, and a farewell Peking duck dinner.
Travel by high-speed train to Nanjing, then through the UNESCO-listed gardens of Suzhou and the canal town of Tongli, before reaching the dazzling metropolis of Shanghai — where futuristic Pudong skyscrapers meet the historic architecture of the Bund. From Shanghai, fly onward to Tokyo for a whirlwind introduction to Japan, including Shibuya Crossing, Meiji Shrine, Tokyo Skytree, and the historic Asakusa district.
Journey to iconic Mount Fuji for a scenic ascent to the Fifth Station, a boat ride on Lake Kawaguchiko, and an overnight stay at a traditional ryokan with an authentic onsen hot spring experience. Continue to Kyoto, Japan's ancient imperial capital, to explore the mystical bamboo forest of Arashiyama, the iconic Fushimi Inari Shrine, and the Golden Pavilion, before a day trip to Nara's free-roaming deer park and the ancient Horyuji Temple, ending the journey in the vibrant, neon-lit streets of Osaka.
With comfortable rail, road, and air travel between destinations, expert local guiding throughout, and a rich mix of iconic landmarks, cultural immersion, and free time to explore independently, this trip is the ultimate introduction to East Asia's ancient traditions and modern energy — all in one unforgettable two-week journey
Itinerary
Itinerary Expand All
Day 1 - SUN.
Beijing
Welcome to China! After completing border and customs formalities, an assistant will be waiting for you to provide essential information and accompany you on the transfer from the airport to the hotel. Enjoy some free time upon arrival.
06:30 p.m. - We'll meet our guide and fellow travelers in the hotel reception area. Then, we'll set out to explore the city. We'll take a transfer to Wangfujing Street, a lively pedestrian and commercial area filled with shops and restaurants. Dinner will be included, followed by a return to the hotel.
Beijing: 37ºC - 37ºC, clear sky
Featured stop: Jingshan ParkDay 2 - MON.
Beijing Total distance covered: 190 km.
Scenery: Expansive urban landscapes as we leave Beijing, followed by lush green mountains surrounding the Great Wall.
Note: Due to the high number of visitors at the Great Wall, it may be advisable to walk part of the way to avoid delays on the funicular ascent.
07:30 a.m. - Departure from Beijing. Today, we'll embark on an unforgettable excursion to the Great Wall.
09:30 a.m. - Great Wall of China (Mutianyu section). We'll arrive at this awe-inspiring architectural marvel, whose history spans over 2,000 years. Our visit includes a cable car ride up and down to one of the most scenic sections of the wall. You'll have free time to explore, enjoy the commercial area, visit the Exhibition Center, and have lunch at your leisure.Later, we'll visit the Temple of Heaven, one of China's most important sacred complexes and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
To unwind after an exciting day, we'll take part in a relaxing Tai Chi class and enjoy a soothing foot massage.
We'll bid farewell to Beijing with a traditional Peking duck dinner (included).
09:00 p.m. - Return to the hotel.
Beijing: 37ºC - 37ºC, clear sky
Day 3 - TUE.
Beijing
07:30 a.m. - An exciting day awaits us as we explore the highlights of China's capital. We'll enjoy a full-day guided tour, starting with a walk through the immense Tiananmen Square, one of the largest squares in the world.
Next, we'll visit the majestic Forbidden City, the most impressive architectural complex in China, where 24 emperors ruled for nearly 500 years. We'll also visit Jingshan Park, home to Coal Hill, one of Beijing's best-preserved imperial gardens. Climbing to the top of the hill, we'll be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the Forbidden City — weather permitting.
Lunch will be included.
In the afternoon, we'll experience local life with a tricycle ride through the traditional Hutong neighborhoods, where we can observe daily life, visit charming shops, and step inside a Siheyuan, a traditional courtyard house.
We'll then conclude our tour with a visit to the stunning Summer Palace, the former imperial retreat of the Qing Dynasty, renowned for its exquisite gardens and tranquil lakes.
06:30 p.m. - Tour ends. You may return to the hotel by bus or choose to stay in the city center (in which case, the return to the hotel will be at your own expense. We recommend carrying the hotel's address written in Chinese to show the taxi driver).
Note: Due to heritage conservation measures and enhanced visitor safety, the governing body of the Forbidden City has temporarily reduced daily visitor capacity. As a result, we cannot guarantee access to this site. If the visit is not possible, it will be replaced with a tour of the Confucius Temple and the Lama Temple, both iconic landmarks in Chinese history and culture.
Beijing: 37ºC - 37ºC, clear sky
Day 4 - WED.
Beijing - Nanjing Total distance covered: 1,030 km (high-speed train)
Scenery: A mix of mountainous landscapes and scenic views from the train.
Note: Train schedules are subject to change. Each passenger must carry their own luggage during the journey.
07:00 a.m. - Departure from the hotel. Transfer to the train station.
09:00 a.m. - Departure from Beijing on a high-speed train. In less than three hours, we'll arrive in Nanjing, enjoying spectacular views along the way.
12:25 p.m. - Nanjing. Arrival in this dynamic city of eight million residents, often regarded as one of the most pleasant cities in China. We'll be captivated by its energy, bustling commercial life, and blend of history and modernity.
Our tour will begin at Purple Mountain, a scenic and historically significant area. Here, we'll visit the Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum, a grand tribute to the founding father of modern China. We'll also explore the Linggu Temple, a picturesque and tranquil site surrounded by lush greenery.
06:00 p.m. - Arrival at the hotel and check-in.
We recommend taking an evening stroll through Nanjing's vibrant streets, filled with shops, restaurants, and a lively atmosphere. Free time to explore at your leisure.
Overnight stay in Nanjing.
Beijing: 37ºC - 37ºC, clear sky - Nanjing: 34ºC - 34ºC, light rain
Day 5 - THU.
Nanjing - Suzhou - Tongli - Shanghai Total distance covered: 350 km
Scenery: Vast plains and serene lakes.
Note: Depending on logistics, we may visit Suzhou before Tongli or vice versa.
07:30 a.m. - Departure from Nanjing as we continue our journey south.
10:45 a.m. - Suzhou. Arrival in this historic city, famous for its exquisite gardens, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Suzhou was once the world's leading silk producer and has long been associated with beauty and refinement.Lunch will be included.
Our visit includes entry to the Garden of the Humble Administrator, a stunning example of classical Chinese landscape design. Afterward, you'll have free time to stroll along the charming Pingjiang Road, a picturesque street lined with traditional shops, teahouses, and canals.
03:15 p.m. - Departure from Suzhou.
04:00 p.m. - Tongli. Arrival in this enchanting water town, known for its historic canals, traditional houses, and tranquil atmosphere. We'll enjoy a scenic boat ride through its winding waterways, offering a unique perspective of this charming destination.06:00 p.m. - Departure from Tongli.
08:00 p.m. - Shanghai. Arrival in China's most dynamic metropolis.Nanjing: 34ºC - 34ºC, light rain - Suzhou: 32ºC - 32ºC, overcast clouds - Tongli: 34ºC - 34ºC, light rain - Shanghai: 34ºC - 34ºC, clear sky
Day 6 - FRI.
Shanghai
08:30 a.m. - This morning, we'll explore the highlights of this fascinating city.
Our tour will begin in Pudong, Shanghai's striking financial district, located across the Huangpu River. We'll admire its futuristic skyline, including the iconic Pearl Tower, and take a stroll along the elevated walkways, offering breathtaking views of the modern skyscrapers.
Next, we'll board a local ferry to cross the river, allowing us to take in Shanghai's impressive cityscape from the water while observing daily life along the bustling waterfront.
Upon arrival, we'll explore the Bund, home to a collection of grand 19th-century European-style buildings, a striking contrast to the modern skyline of Pudong.
Our tour will continue in Shanghai's Old City, where we'll visit the Yuyuan Garden, a beautiful private garden built during the Ming Dynasty. Here, we'll also enjoy an explanation of traditional tea, an integral part of Chinese culture.
We'll then pass through Xintiandi, one of the city's most fashionable districts, known for its blend of historical charm and modern elegance.
Lunch will be included.
In the afternoon, we'll visit Tianzifang, a former residential area famous for its narrow, labyrinth-like streets, lined with artisanal shops, trendy boutiques, and art galleries.
We'll conclude our tour with a final stroll along the Bund, appreciating its historical architecture and the European influence on the city's past.
06:30 p.m. - Our tour will come to an end. You may return to the hotel by bus or choose to stay in the city center (if so, return to the hotel will be at your own expense. We recommend carrying the hotel's address written in Chinese to show the taxi driver).
Shanghai: 34ºC - 34ºC, clear sky
Day 7 - SAT.
Shanghai - Tokyo
After breakfast, we'll provide a transfer to the airport for the flight to Tokyo (included).
Welcome to Japan! After completing border procedures, an assistant will be waiting for you. You'll then be transferred by shared shuttle bus to the hotel. Free time.
Shanghai: 34ºC - 34ºC, clear sky - Tokyo: 30ºC - 32ºC, broken clouds
Day 8 - SUN.
Tokyo
In the morning, we'll take a long guided tour — about seven hours — through this simply stunning city! Its vibrant energy and cutting-edge neighborhoods coexist with areas full of peace and tranquility.
We'll make a short stop at Zojoji Temple to capture the most beautiful view of the Tokyo Tower. You'll notice hundreds upon hundreds of Jizo statues, stone-carved deities considered guardians of children, adorned with knitted hats, bibs, and pinwheels.
Next, we'll head to the famous Shibuya Crossing, which we will see from the bus. It is known as the busiest intersection in the world. Then we'll visit Meiji Shrine, dedicated to the spirits of Emperor Meiji and his wife.
Then we'll head to Tokyo Skytree (admission included up to Tembo Deck at 350 meters high), Japan's tallest structure, where we'll enjoy an unmatched panoramic view of the city.
We'll end our visit in Asakusa, where we'll explore Sensoji Temple and the famous Nakamise Street. Afterwards, we'll return to the hotel passing by Akihabara district, the "Electric City," known as the center of Japanese manga and anime culture; and the Ginza district.
6:30 p.m. - We'll meet our guide in the hotel lobby and take the subway (tickets included) to the Shinjuku area. From there, we'll enjoy a walk through this lively district before heading to a local restaurant for dinner (included). We'll return to the hotel by subway, accompanied by our guide.
Note: The order of the visits may vary depending on the admission time for Tokyo Skytree. In case of bad weather or other exceptional circumstances, access to Tokyo Skytree may be limited. In that case, an alternative visit to another iconic city viewpoint will be offered.
Tokyo: 30ºC - 32ºC, broken clouds
Day 9 - MON.
Tokyo - Mount Fuji - Kawaguchiko Total distance covered: 191 km
Scenery: Beautiful mountain landscapes, with stunning views on the ascent to Mount Fuji.
Notes: Bring warm clothing, as it can be cold on Mount Fuji. In winter, the route to the mountain is often closed due to snow or weather conditions; during those times, we'll go as far as we're permitted.8:00 a.m. - Departure. We travel toward the beautiful Mount Fuji area, enjoying the scenic landscapes along our route.
10:00 a.m. - Kawaguchiko. Arrival in this idyllic town of charming houses, flowers, and mountains beside a stunning lake. Upon arrival, we'll visit Arakurayama Sengen Park, famous for its beautiful pagodas and for offering some of the most iconic and breathtaking views of Mount Fuji. Afterwards, we'll visit the Fuji Sengen Shrine, a magical place surrounded by tall trees — traditionally the starting point of the pilgrimage up Mount Fuji. We'll take a moment to give thanks at the shrine for the opportunity to visit such a spiritually rich and enchanting site.
Around 12:30 p.m. - We'll enjoy a pleasant 30-minute boat ride on Lake Kawaguchiko.
2:15 p.m. - After lunch, we'll begin our ascent toward Mount Fuji via the road that leads to the "Fifth Station." Driving through spectacular forests and enjoying panoramic views, we'll reach an altitude of 2,305 meters (7,562 feet). You'll have time to explore the area, popular among tourists and mountain climbers, stroll around, and visit the small shrine located there.
Note: In winter, the route to the Fifth Station is often closed due to snow or weather conditions; during those times, we'll go as far as we're permitted.
4:15 p.m. - Mount Fuji. Departure.
5:00 p.m. - Kawaguchiko. Arrival.We'll stay overnight at a Ryokan (traditional Japanese inn), where we recommend enjoying the Onsen (public hot spring bath). The experience in this typical Japanese bath will be unforgettable. Dinner included.
Note: In the planned Ryokan, some rooms are Japanese-style with tatami mats, while others are Western-style. Occasionally, accommodation may be provided in a Western-style hotel instead.
Tokyo: 30ºC - 32ºC, broken clouds - Mount Fuji - Kawaguchiko
Day 10 - TUE.
Kawaguchiko - Iyashi no Sato Nenba - Toyota - Kyoto Total distance covered: 390 km.
Note: Wear comfortable walking shoes for our visit to Shiraito Falls.
08:30 a.m. - Departure from Kawaguchiko. We'll travel along a scenic road bordered by the picturesque Kawaguchi and Saiko Lakes.
09:00 a.m. - Iyashi no Sato Nenba. This charming mountain village, once destroyed by a typhoon in 1966, has been beautifully restored as a traditional open-air museum. Its historic houses now serve as arts and crafts shops, restaurants, and cultural museums, offering a glimpse into Japan's rural heritage.10:00 a.m. - Departure from Iyashi no Sato Nenba.
10:45 a.m. - Arrival at Shiraito Falls. We'll admire these breathtaking waterfalls, considered one of the most beautiful in Japan, with cascades that reach a height of 20 meters.11:45 a.m. - Departure from Shiraito Falls. Free time at a service area for lunch.
03:15 p.m. - Admission included to the Toyota Museum, a must-visit destination for car enthusiasts.04:45 p.m. - Departure from the Toyota Museum.
07:00 p.m. - Kyoto. Accommodation and free time.Toyota: 33ºC - 33ºC, clear sky - Kyoto: 32ºC - 34ºC, clear sky
Day 11 - WED.
Kyoto
We'll spend the entire day exploring Kyoto, Japan's capital from 794 to 1868 and home to the Imperial Court. Remarkably, Kyoto was the only major Japanese city spared from bombing during World War II, allowing it to retain its rich artistic heritage. Notably, the Kyoto Protocol, aimed at limiting greenhouse gas emissions, was signed here in 1997.
We'll include a visit to Kyoto's most iconic landmarks. Our tour will begin in Arashiyama, where we'll admire the Togetsukyo Bridge, or "Bridge over the Moon." This spot offers a breathtaking panorama of the surrounding landscape.
We'll then visit the Tenryuji Temple, one of Kyoto's "five great Zen temples" and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, followed by a serene walk through its mystical bamboo forest.
Next, we'll explore the magnificent Fushimi Inari Shrine; the Imperial Palace; and the Kinkakuji Temple, also known as the "Golden Pavilion," surrounded by its spectacular gardens. (The order of the visits may vary.)
After the tour, you can enjoy some time to stroll through Gion, Kyoto's vibrant traditional district, known for its lively atmosphere and geishas.
05:00 p.m. - Afterward, we'll provide a transfer to Gion, Kyoto's traditional and lively district, famous for its geishas. You'll have time to stroll and soak in the vibrant atmosphere of this historic neighborhood. The return to the hotel will be on your own. We recommend taking a taxi, and your guide will explain how to do so.
Kyoto: 32ºC - 34ºC, clear sky
Featured stop: Arashiyama Bamboo GroveDay 12 - THU.
Kyoto - Nara - Osaka Total distance covered: 125 km.
08:00 a.m. - Departure from Kyoto.
09:00 a.m. - Nara. Our visit will take us to Todaiji Temple, a spectacular Buddhist site built in 752. The temple houses a giant Buddha statue and is surrounded by a serene park where you can interact with the friendly deer that roam freely. This will be your chance to take photos and enjoy the unique atmosphere of this historic area.10:30 a.m. - Departure from Todaiji Temple.
11:15 a.m. - Horyuji Buddhist Temple. This UNESCO World Heritage Site offers a glimpse into Japan's ancient spiritual heritage. Here, you can explore its seminary, monasteries, and temples, including the iconic main pagoda, one of the world's oldest wooden buildings and the oldest Buddhist temple in Japan. Horyuji remains an important place of worship and historical significance.12:45 p.m. - Departure from Horyuji. Lunch will be included at a local restaurant before we continue to Osaka.
02:30 p.m. - Osaka. Arrival in Japan's second-largest city, known for its modern skyline and vibrant culture. After check-in, you'll have free time to explore.In the evening, we'll visit Dotonbori, a bustling and colorful district famous for its lively nightlife, neon signs, and excellent dining options. Enjoy the evening at your leisure.
Kyoto: 32ºC - 34ºC, clear sky - Nara: 34ºC - 34ºC, clear sky - Osaka: 32ºC - 34ºC, clear sky
Day 13 - FRI.
Osaka: 32ºC - 34ºC, clear sky
After breakfast, our journey will come to an end, leaving you with wonderful lasting memories.
Osaka: 32ºC - 34ºC, clear sky
PLANNED HOTELS FOR THIS TOUR.
4 STAR HOTELS
MERCURE BEIJING DOWNTOWN****
Т.: 1087956688
No.16 Jia,Xi Da Wang Road, Chaoyang, CP 100124,BEIJING
100124 BEIJING
CHINAGRAND CONCORDIA*****
Т.: 1051086688
No. 26 Xiaoyun Road, Chaoyang District, Beijing, China, 100016
100016 BEIJING
CHINAGRAND MERCURE BEIJING CENTRAL****
Т.: 106603668
China, Beijing, Xicheng District
100031 BEIJING
CHINANOVOTEL NANJING CENTRAL****
Т.: 25587988
68 Huaihai Rd, XinJieKou, Qinhuai Qu, Nanjing Shi, Jiangsu Sheng, China
210005 NANJING
CHINAHILTON NANJING RIVERSIDE*****
Т.: 2583158888
1 Huaibin Rd, Gulou Qu, Nanjing Shi, Jiangsu Sheng, China, 210011
210011 NANJING
CHINANEW JINGLI ****
Т.: 2583243333
No.2, Zijinghua Rd, Jiangsu
000 NANJING
CHINANOVOTEL SHANGHAI ATLANTIS****
Т.: 2150366666
28 Pu Dong Avenue 200120 SHANGHAI CHINA
200120 SHANGHAI
CHINASHINAGAWA PRINCE HOTEL****
Т.: 334401111
10-30 Takanawa 4-chome, Minato-ku
108-8611 TOKYO
JAPANTOKYO DOME HOTEL****
Т.: 358052111
1 Chome-3-61 Koraku, Bunky333;
112-0004 TOKYO
JAPANMOXY TOKYO KINSHICHO****
Т.: 356248801
3-4-2 Kotobashi, Sumida-ku
130-0022 TOKYO
JAPANFUJI VIEW HOTEL KAWAGUCHIKO****
Т.: 555832211
Yamanashi Prefecture, Minamitsuru, Katsuyama District
401-0310 KAWAGUCHIKO
JAPANFUJI KAWAGUCHIKO RESORT****
Т.: 8002007970
4902-2 Funatsu, Fujikawaguchiko, Minamitsuru District, Yamanashi 401-0301, Japón
401-0301 KAWAGUCHIKO
JAPANKOFU KINENBI****
Т.: 55253811
3-2-30 Yumura, Kofu, Yamanashi 400-0073, Japón
400-0073 KAWAGUCHIKO
JAPANMIYAKO KIOTO HACHIJYO****
Т.: 756617111
MINAMI WARD, NISHIKUHO INMACHI, 1
6018412 KYOTO
JAPANCANDEO OSAKA NAMBA****
Т.: 0662122200
2-2-5, Higashishinsaibashi, Chiuo-ku, Osaka
542-0083 OSAKA
JAPANHOLIDAY INN EXPRESS OSAKA CITY CENTRE - MIDOSUJI****
Т.: 649632422
4-1-12 Kitakyuhojimachi, Osaka, 541-0057 Japan
541-0057 OSAKA
JAPANMOXY OSAKA HONMACHI****
Т.: 662045200
2 Chome-2-9 Kawaramachi, Chuo Ward, Osaka, 541-0048, Japón
5410048 OSAKA
JAPAN
Cost Info
Cost Info
Price includes
- General Services: Travel by bus with English speaking guide, basic travel insurance, hotel and breakfast buffet.
- Includes arrival transfer
- City tour in: Beijing, Shanghai, Tokyo, Kyoto
- Excursion: Tricycle ride through the traditional neigborhood in Beijing, Great Wall of China Mutianyu section
- Boat: Boat Ride in Tongli, Kawaguchiko Lake
- Evening transfer: Wangfujing street in Beijing, Shinjuku in Tokyo , Traditional neighborhood of Gion in Kyoto , Dotonbori in Osaka
- Ticket admission: The Forbidden City, Jingshan Park, Summer Palace in Beijing, Great Wall of China Mutianyu section, Temple of Heaven, foot massage, Tai Chi class in Beijing , The Sun Yatsen Mausoleum and Lingu Temple in Nanjing , Garden of the humble administrator in Suzhou , Yuyuan Garden , Metro, Zojoji Temple, Meiji Temple, Sensoji Temple, Tokyo Skytree (up to the Tembo Deck) in Tokyo , Arakurayama Sengen Park in Monte Fuji , Fuji Sengen Shrine in Kawaguchiko , Village Museum in Iyashi No Sato Nemba , Toyota Museum , Tenryu-ji Temple, Arashiyama bamboo forest, Fushimi Inari, Imperial Palace, Kinkakuji Temple in Kyoto , Todai-ji Temple and Horyu-ji Temple in Nara
- Ferry: Huangpu River in Shanghai
- Funicular: Great Wall of China Mutianyu section
- High speed train: Beijing/Nanjing
- Flights included: Shanghai - Tokyo
- 4 Lunch included in: Beijing, Suzhou, Shanghai, Nara
- 4 dinner included in: Beijing, Beijing, Tokyo, Kawaguchiko
- Pre and post nights as per Itinerary
Price excludes
- International flight bookings
- Domestic connections
- Hotel extensions
- Drop off Airport transfers
- Travel insurance guidance
- Visa information
- Private sightseeing
FAQ
FAQ Expand All
FAQ 1; Is 13 days enough to properly experience both China and Japan, or will it feel rushed?
This itinerary is built to give each country its own real depth, not a rushed dash between airports. You get 6 full days in China (Beijing, Nanjing, Suzhou, Tongli, Shanghai) and 7 in Japan (Tokyo, Mount Fuji, Kyoto, Nara, Osaka) — enough time to actually settle into each destination, from the Great Wall to a traditional ryokan stay with an onsen bath, rather than checking landmarks off a list. Few tours combine both countries this seamlessly in one booking.
FAQ 2; What's the most unique, once-in-a-lifetime experience on this trip?
Two moments stand out: an overnight stay at a traditional Japanese ryokan near Mount Fuji, where you'll soak in an authentic onsen hot spring after a scenic ascent to the mountain's Fifth Station — and a boat ride through the historic canals of Tongli, a water town most travelers never even hear about. Between the Great Wall, the Golden Pavilion, and Nara's free-roaming deer, this trip is stacked with the kind of moments people build entire trips around — all included in one itinerary.
FAQ 3; How much of this trip is guided versus free time to explore on our own?
Every major city includes expert local guiding through the essential landmarks — the Forbidden City, Tokyo Skytree, Kyoto's Arashiyama bamboo forest — so you don't miss what matters, paired with real free time built into most days (like Shanghai's Old City, Kyoto's Gion district, or Osaka's Dotonbori nightlife) to explore, shop, or relax at your own pace. It's the balance of expert guidance and personal freedom that makes a trip like this feel effortless instead of exhausting.
Map
Map

Your 13-day journey connects Beijing, Nanjing, and Shanghai in China with Tokyo, Kawaguchiko, Kyoto, and Osaka in Japan.








