New China: Cities of the Future
Beijing | Guangzhou | Shanghai
Price details
Price includes all accommodation, experiences, guiding and transfers. Based on travelling off-peak and may increase if travelling over peak season. Price excludes international flights and meals that are not listed in the itinerary.
Tour Highlights
Huawei, TikTok, DJI, and a new wave of emerging brands all have their roots in today's China. China is no longer defined only by its history, but also by its innovation, consumer energy, and rapidly evolving industries.
During this journey, you will see the ultra-modern skylines of Shanghai, with immersive visits to world-renowned technology and consumer brands. You will also step into the heart of China's manufacturing hub in southern China and see how "Made in China" has evolved into a symbol of quality and value. You will gain a deeper understanding of China and its future path for growth.
Get up close with China's latest technology and leading brands in Shanghai with immersive and interactive experiences
Explore China's manufacturing strength through wholesale and trading markets in southern China
Understand how Chinese companies have grown into globally recognized brands
Experience modern China through futuristic skylines and cutting-edge retail concepts
Enjoy a well-balanced journey that also includes iconic landmarks such as the Great Wall, the Forbidden City, and Shanghai's skyline
Itinerary
DAY
1
DAY
1
New China: Cities of the Future
Beijing
MORNING
Beijing Airport Pickup
AFTERNOON
Beijing Hutong Tour: A Walk Through Time
New China: Cities of the Future • Afternoon
Beijing Hutong Tour: A Walk Through Time
In this tour you will walk through different Hutongs to discover different sides of Beijing life. You will see neighborhoods where time seems to stand still - quiet alleys where locals still enjoy their daily routines, and living at a slower pace. As we continue, the Hutongs begin to change. We'll pass through lively streets filled with century-old shops and traditional eateries. Later you'll also see newly renovated alleys transformed into boutique cafés and stylish spaces.
During the tour, you will visit a local opera house where you can create your own Peking opera mask, try on traditional costumes, and capture some of the most unique and memorable travel photos in China.
Duration: 4 Hours
Best seasons: Spring, Summer, Autumn, Winter
Themes: History & Culture, Art & Creative, Off-the-Beaten Path
EVENING
Antique Market Treasure Hunt
New China: Cities of the Future • Evening
Antique Market Treasure Hunt
Explore one of the largest and liveliest antique markets in Beijing, where you'll find a wide range of traditional Chinese handicrafts, antiques, and vintage-style items. Many pieces may not be truly ancient, but that is part of the fun — browsing, discovering, and bargaining for something you love at a good price.
During the tour, you will also visit a stand run by a lovely local auntie, where you can create your own personalized stamp with your name or even a Chinese name if you wish. It makes for a memorable keepsake from Beijing.
Duration: 2 hours
Best seasons: Spring, Summer, Autumn
Themes: Art & Creative, Off-the-Beaten Path
New China: Cities of the Future • Accommodation
Hotel Jen Beijing
Located in Beijing's Central Business District, JEN Beijing by Shangri-La is part of the Shangri-La Group. The newly-built JEN Beijing by Shangri-La is part of the fully integrated China World Complex, which includes premier malls, offices and restaurants. Centrally located in buzzing Guomao, the complex provides direct access to major subway lines for convenient trips to some of Beijing's top attractions. JEN Beijing by Shangri-La offers young-at-heart travellers fuss-free service with a refreshing sense of adventure and puts the city right at their doorstep. Enjoy upcoming events, a lively gastropub Beersmith, a modern and vibrant all-day dining restaurant San Wu Tang, smart meeting space Prototype and a fitness centre Trainyard that will help keep the great feelings going! Check into more than a physical space; check into a new state of mind. Because whether you're in Beijing for business or a bit of shopping, we blur the line between work and play in an informal, fun and inspiring setting
DAY
2
DAY
2
New China: Cities of the Future
Beijing
MORNING
Decoding the Forbidden City
New China: Cities of the Future • Morning
Decoding the Forbidden City
During this tour, you'll discover why the Forbidden City is a masterpiece in all aspects - a perfect blend of oriental culture, Chinese history, and architectural gems. This is a tour that can be tailor-made for everyone, whether you're a history lover, an architecture enthusiast, or simply someone who wants to take the best IG photos.
We won't bombard you with dates, dynasties, or long-dead emperor names. Instead, we'll help you understand the Forbidden City in a way that is easy to digest, engaging, and relatable. It's an architecture tour. It's a history tour. It's a culture tour. But most of all, it's a fun tour.
AFTERNOON
Speedboat to the Summer Palace
New China: Cities of the Future • Afternoon
Speedboat to the Summer Palace
Take a speedboat along the historic imperial waterway, cruising just as the royal family once did on their way to the Summer Palace. Along the journey, enjoy a unique perspective of Beijing's cityscape before arriving at the vast Summer Palace.
Once there, stroll through the magnificent Summer Palace, the most beautiful royal garden in China. This garden is a miniature version of China's most famous landscapes. You'll learn how to appreciate the beauty of this place, and see how this place reflects the elegance and aesthetics of China. Along the way, we will also stop at a charming café hidden inside a quiet garden for a relaxing coffee break.
Duration: 3 Hours
Best seasons: Spring, Summer, Autumn
Themes: History & Culture, Active & Outdoors
EVENING
Beijing Under Moonlight - Not Your Average Bar Tour
New China: Cities of the Future • Evening
Beijing Under Moonlight - Not Your Average Bar Tour
Ancient temples, hidden hutong courtyards, and former factories — places you would never expect to find nightlife — have been transformed into vibrant cocktail bars and craft beer houses. That unique contrast is what makes this night experience so special.
Along the way, you'll taste premium cocktails inspired by Chinese local flavors, locally crafted beers, and Chinese wines. As you walk beneath the moonlight, you'll discover a side of Beijing that feels both ancient and contemporary. Please note that drinks are not included, and guests cover their own drinks.
Duration: 3 hours
Best seasons: Spring, Summer, Autumn
Themes: Food & Drinks, Off-the-Beaten Path
New China: Cities of the Future • Accommodation
Hotel Jen Beijing
Located in Beijing's Central Business District, JEN Beijing by Shangri-La is part of the Shangri-La Group. The newly-built JEN Beijing by Shangri-La is part of the fully integrated China World Complex, which includes premier malls, offices and restaurants. Centrally located in buzzing Guomao, the complex provides direct access to major subway lines for convenient trips to some of Beijing's top attractions. JEN Beijing by Shangri-La offers young-at-heart travellers fuss-free service with a refreshing sense of adventure and puts the city right at their doorstep. Enjoy upcoming events, a lively gastropub Beersmith, a modern and vibrant all-day dining restaurant San Wu Tang, smart meeting space Prototype and a fitness centre Trainyard that will help keep the great feelings going! Check into more than a physical space; check into a new state of mind. Because whether you're in Beijing for business or a bit of shopping, we blur the line between work and play in an informal, fun and inspiring setting
DAY
3
DAY
3
New China: Cities of the Future
Beijing
MORNING+AFTERNOON
Your Great Wall, Your Way
New China: Cities of the Future • Morning+afternoon
Your Great Wall, Your Way
In this flexible Great Wall program, you may choose the section that suits you best — the classic Mutianyu Great Wall with iconic views, or the quieter Huanghuacheng Great Wall for a more peaceful experience with fewer crowds.
This tour goes beyond the Wall itself. You will also visit a traditional Chinese village nearby, slow down after your hike, and enjoy a beautiful café with scenic views where the Great Wall can still be seen in the distance.
Duration: 4 hours (excluding transit)
Best seasons: Spring, Summer, Autumn, Winter
Themes: History & Culture, Active & Outdoors, Off-the-Beaten Path
New China: Cities of the Future • Accommodation
Hotel Jen Beijing
Located in Beijing's Central Business District, JEN Beijing by Shangri-La is part of the Shangri-La Group. The newly-built JEN Beijing by Shangri-La is part of the fully integrated China World Complex, which includes premier malls, offices and restaurants. Centrally located in buzzing Guomao, the complex provides direct access to major subway lines for convenient trips to some of Beijing's top attractions. JEN Beijing by Shangri-La offers young-at-heart travellers fuss-free service with a refreshing sense of adventure and puts the city right at their doorstep. Enjoy upcoming events, a lively gastropub Beersmith, a modern and vibrant all-day dining restaurant San Wu Tang, smart meeting space Prototype and a fitness centre Trainyard that will help keep the great feelings going! Check into more than a physical space; check into a new state of mind. Because whether you're in Beijing for business or a bit of shopping, we blur the line between work and play in an informal, fun and inspiring setting
DAY
4
DAY
4
New China: Cities of the Future
Beijing/Guangzhou
MORNING
Beijing Airport Dropoff + Guangzhou Airport Pickup
AFTERNOON
Cantonese Street Food Adventure
New China: Cities of the Future • Afternoon
Cantonese Street Food Adventure
Discover the culinary heart of Guangzhou along Xihua Road, a street alive with authentic local food culture. Here, there are no tourist menus or polished storefronts — only the rhythms of real city life.
Enjoy freshly made dim sum, rice rolls, beef offal, zongzi, dumplings, and traditional desserts, guided by a local expert who explains the culture, history, and everyday eating habits of Guangzhou residents. Experience the city's vibrant food scene from morning to evening flavors in just a few hours.
Duration: 3 hours
Best seasons: Spring, Summer, Autumn, Winter
Themes: History & Culture, Food & Drinks, Off-the-Beaten Path
New China: Cities of the Future • Accommodation
Hilton Guangzhou Tianhe
Just a few steps from Guangzhou East Railway Station, the Hilton Guangzhou Tianhe is conveniently located in Guangzhou's central business district, with easy access to the city's most popular shopping and entertainment venues.
All of the Guest Rooms and Suites at this Guangzhou hotel feature Hilton Serenity Beds, wireless internet access, LCD TVs and stunning views of the city skyline.
Diners can enjoy the authentic Cantonese cuisine at Suixuan Chinese Restaurant, check out the sophisticated Il Ponte for authentic Italian cuisine, take afternoon tea in the relaxed T Lounge & Bar and enjoy cocktails and live music in Bar One.
DAY
5
DAY
5
New China: Cities of the Future
Guangzhou
MORNING+AFTERNOON
Icons of Canton
New China: Cities of the Future • Morning+afternoon
Icons of Canton
Explore Guangzhou's most iconic landmarks in a full-day journey blending history, modernity, and riverside scenery. Begin at Chen Clan Ancestral Hall, a masterpiece of Qing dynasty architecture adorned with intricate carvings and folk art.
In the afternoon, ascend Canton Tower for panoramic city views from the observation deck. Conclude the day with a relaxing stroll along the Pearl River, taking in the riverside atmosphere and Guangzhou's illuminated skyline.
Duration: 8 hours
Best seasons: Spring, Summer, Autumn, Winter
Themes: History & Culture, Art & Creative
New China: Cities of the Future • Accommodation
Hilton Guangzhou Tianhe
Just a few steps from Guangzhou East Railway Station, the Hilton Guangzhou Tianhe is conveniently located in Guangzhou's central business district, with easy access to the city's most popular shopping and entertainment venues.
All of the Guest Rooms and Suites at this Guangzhou hotel feature Hilton Serenity Beds, wireless internet access, LCD TVs and stunning views of the city skyline.
Diners can enjoy the authentic Cantonese cuisine at Suixuan Chinese Restaurant, check out the sophisticated Il Ponte for authentic Italian cuisine, take afternoon tea in the relaxed T Lounge & Bar and enjoy cocktails and live music in Bar One.
DAY
6
DAY
6
New China: Cities of the Future
Guangzhou
MORNING+AFTERNOON
Made in China, Redefined: Bargain Hunt Like a Local
New China: Cities of the Future • Morning+afternoon
Made in China, Redefined: Bargain Hunt Like a Local
Explore Guangzhou's vibrant shopping scene, from wholesale fashion to leather goods. Start at Baima Clothing Market, one of the city's largest clothing wholesale hubs, where your guide helps you navigate thousands of stalls, identify quality, and master bargaining.
Continue to Guangzhou Leather City, a destination for premium bags and accessories at a fraction of retail prices. Along the way, learn about local supply chains, craftsmanship, and the fun of negotiating like a true local to score the best deals.
Duration: 3–4 hours
Best seasons: pring, Summer, Autumn, Winter
Themes: History & Culture, Off-the-Beaten Path
New China: Cities of the Future • Accommodation
Hilton Guangzhou Tianhe
Just a few steps from Guangzhou East Railway Station, the Hilton Guangzhou Tianhe is conveniently located in Guangzhou's central business district, with easy access to the city's most popular shopping and entertainment venues.
All of the Guest Rooms and Suites at this Guangzhou hotel feature Hilton Serenity Beds, wireless internet access, LCD TVs and stunning views of the city skyline.
Diners can enjoy the authentic Cantonese cuisine at Suixuan Chinese Restaurant, check out the sophisticated Il Ponte for authentic Italian cuisine, take afternoon tea in the relaxed T Lounge & Bar and enjoy cocktails and live music in Bar One.
DAY
7
DAY
7
New China: Cities of the Future
Guangzhou/Shanghai
MORNING
Guangzhou Airport Dropoff + Shanghai Airport Pickup
AFTERNOON
Leisure Time
New China: Cities of the Future • Accommodation
Shanghai Marriott Marquis City Centre
Conveniently situated in the heart of the tourist destination, guests staying at Shanghai Marriott Marquis City Centre can easily access a number of city landmarks as well as entertainment and shopping attractions including, The Bund, Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street and the People's Square. The refreshed features can be seen in the hotel's guestrooms, food and beverage outlets, lobby lounge and the 2,000 square meters flexible event space.
DAY
8
DAY
8
New China: Cities of the Future
Shanghai
MORNING
Discover Old Shanghai on a Moped
New China: Cities of the Future • Morning
Discover Old Shanghai on a Moped
Panoramic Shanghai awaits on this exciting moped tour. Feel the wind as you glide along Suzhou Creek, through the Bund's atmospheric backstreets, quiet corners of the Old City, and the leafy avenues of the French Concession.
The route is thoughtfully designed to use mostly light-traffic roads, helping guests cover more ground in comfort and style. Along the way, enjoy delicious local street food and refreshing drinks while your guide shares stories that bring Shanghai's layered history to life.
Duration: 3 hours
Best seasons: Spring, Autumn
Themes: History & Culture, Active & Outdoors, Off-the-Beaten Path
AFTERNOON
What's Trendy in China? Consumer Theme
New China: Cities of the Future • Afternoon
What's Trendy in China? Consumer Theme
Step into China's fast-evolving consumer landscape, where homegrown brands like PopMart, MINISO, and other rising names are reshaping tastes locally and globally. This experience reveals how China has evolved from the world's factory into a creator of influential brands, IP, and consumer trends.
Discover how these brands built their influence, explore their business strategies, and hear the stories behind their success. Food and lifestyle also play a role: highlights include trendy street food, milk tea, and a meal at the world-famous Haidilao, known internationally for its service and frequent appearance in business case studies.
Duration: 4 hours
Best seasons: Spring, Summer, Autumn, Winter
Themes: Food & Drinks, Art & Creative
New China: Cities of the Future • Accommodation
Shanghai Marriott Marquis City Centre
Conveniently situated in the heart of the tourist destination, guests staying at Shanghai Marriott Marquis City Centre can easily access a number of city landmarks as well as entertainment and shopping attractions including, The Bund, Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street and the People's Square. The refreshed features can be seen in the hotel's guestrooms, food and beverage outlets, lobby lounge and the 2,000 square meters flexible event space.
DAY
9
DAY
9
New China: Cities of the Future
Shanghai
MORNING
The Bund & Suzhou Creek Riverside Tour
New China: Cities of the Future • Morning
The Bund & Suzhou Creek Riverside Tour
Join a guided walking tour along the scenic riversides of Suzhou Creek and the Huangpu River, uncovering the story of Shanghai's rise from a humble water town to one of the world's greatest metropolises.
Learn how the rivers shaped the city's development, admire the architectural landmarks of the Bund, and explore Shanghai's colonial history. Across the river, Pudong's skyline tells the story of China's future-facing transformation and economic growth.
Duration: 2 hours
Best seasons: Spring, Summer, Autumn, Winter
Themes: History & Culture, Off-the-Beaten Path
AFTERNOON
Chinese-art-themed Tour in the Former French Quarter
New China: Cities of the Future • Afternoon
Chinese-art-themed Tour in the Former French Quarter
Experience the Former French Concession's rich history, from traditional alley lanes once home to locals, to peaceful French-style parks and elegant mansions once inhabited by elites. This walking journey combines architectural charm, neighborhood atmosphere, and creative discovery.
Highlights include exploring Tianzifang, enjoying drinks at boutique cafés, wandering through local lanes, and finishing with two different hands-on Chinese art crafts to take home in an artsy studio in Tianzifang.
Duration: 4 hours
Best seasons: Spring, Summer, Autumn, Winter
Themes: History & Culture, Art & Creative, Off-the-Beaten Path
New China: Cities of the Future • Accommodation
Shanghai Marriott Marquis City Centre
Conveniently situated in the heart of the tourist destination, guests staying at Shanghai Marriott Marquis City Centre can easily access a number of city landmarks as well as entertainment and shopping attractions including, The Bund, Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street and the People's Square. The refreshed features can be seen in the hotel's guestrooms, food and beverage outlets, lobby lounge and the 2,000 square meters flexible event space.
DAY
10
DAY
10
New China: Cities of the Future
Shanghai
MORNING
From Modern to Ultra-modern: E-bike Ride along Huangpu River
New China: Cities of the Future • Morning
From Modern to Ultra-modern: E-bike Ride along Huangpu River
Enjoy a 15-km e-bike ride along the Huangpu River promenade on dedicated biking lanes, without having to worry about regular traffic. This experience offers an active and panoramic way to understand Shanghai's urban evolution.
Along the route, take in views of the historic Bund, the glittering skyline of Lujiazui, and newer districts that reveal the city's vision for the future, including futuristic arenas, modern museums, Expo-era sites, and protected wetlands.
Duration: 3 hours
Best seasons: Spring, Autumn
Themes: Active & Outdoors, Off-the-Beaten Path
AFTERNOON
What's Trendy in China? Technology Theme
New China: Cities of the Future • Afternoon
What's Trendy in China? Technology Theme
Discover the industries helping drive China's future as technology takes center stage in national growth. From electric vehicles and solar panels to robotics and AI, this experience visits selected flagship stores such as Huawei, DJI, and Xiaomi to showcase innovations shaping both domestic and global markets.
Led by a business-savvy host, guests learn how these brands rose to prominence, what makes their products competitive, and the breakthroughs behind their success. The experience also includes a themed VR adventure transporting guests into ancient China.
Duration: 4 hours
Best seasons: Spring, Summer, Autumn, Winter
Themes: Art & Creative
New China: Cities of the Future • Accommodation
Shanghai Marriott Marquis City Centre
Conveniently situated in the heart of the tourist destination, guests staying at Shanghai Marriott Marquis City Centre can easily access a number of city landmarks as well as entertainment and shopping attractions including, The Bund, Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street and the People's Square. The refreshed features can be seen in the hotel's guestrooms, food and beverage outlets, lobby lounge and the 2,000 square meters flexible event space.
DAY
11
DAY
11
New China: Cities of the Future
Shanghai
MORNING
Shanghai Airport Dropoff
Enquiry Form
Enquiry Form
Example China Trips
This itinerary is simplly an inspiration for your China journey. You can tailor, adjust and refine your journey using our customization tool
Customize my journey
5 DAYS
5 DAYS
7 DAYS
9 DAYS
11 DAYS
12 DAYS
12 DAYS
16 DAYS