MODERN CHINA TO THE ERA OF EMPIRES | MAY 14 – MAY 22, 2027
FROM MODERN CHINA TO THE ERA OF EMPIRES
SHANGHAI (2 NIGHTS) - XI'AN (2 NIGHTS) - BEIJING (3 NIGHTS)
ALL CITY TOURS AND ENTRANCE FEES INCLUDED!
TANG DYNASTY SHOW AND 2 EVENING DINNERS INCLUDED
EXPERIENCE TRAVEL ON THE HIGH-SPEED TRAIN BETWEEN XI'AN AND BEIJING, PLUS AN INTERNAL FLIGHT FROM SHANGHAI TO XI'AN INCLUDED!
ISTANBUL > Thursday, May 13, 2027
Meeting at 22:30 in front of the Turkish Airlines counter at Istanbul Airport international departures terminal.
ISTANBUL TO SHANGHAI > Friday, May 14, 2027
After our ticket, baggage, and passport procedures, we fly to Shanghai on Turkish Airlines flight TK026 at 01:30. We arrive in Shanghai at 16:45 local time. After completing our passport and baggage procedures, we leave the airport and board our vehicle for transfer to the hotel. Upon arrival at our hotel, we complete check-in procedures and settle into our rooms. Overnight stay at our hotel in Shanghai.
SHANGHAI > Saturday, May 15, 2027 > (K)
After enjoying breakfast at our hotel in the morning, we visit Yu Garden, one of the most elegant examples of classical Chinese garden art. In this impressive garden, with its winding stone bridges, tranquil ornamental ponds, traditional pavilions, and meticulously landscaped scenery, we savor a peaceful atmosphere. Next, we proceed to the nearby Yuyuan Bazaar. Walking through lively streets surrounded by traditional architecture, we sample local snacks, explore colorful shops and handmade souvenirs, and experience the vibrant everyday life of China up close. Continuing our tour, we visit the Shanghai Museum, witnessing thousands of years of Chinese artistic heritage. Among bronze artifacts, elegant porcelain, calligraphy works, and traditional art collections, we embark on a fascinating journey into China's deep-rooted culture. Afterwards, we take a short walk along Nanjing Road, symbolizing Shanghai's modern and dynamic side. Accompanied by sparkling shops, historic buildings, and bustling streets, we gradually feel the city's energy. At the end of our tour, we transfer back to our hotel. Our overnight stay will be at our hotel in Shanghai.
Shanghai → Xi'an > Sunday, May 16, 2027 > (K)
After enjoying breakfast at our hotel in the morning, we begin our day with a visit to the serene Jade Buddha Temple located in the city center. Within the temple, where the mystical atmosphere is enhanced by the scent of incense, we admire the intricately crafted jade Buddha statue and feel deeply connected to China's ancient spiritual traditions amidst its elegant architectural details. Next, we ascend the Oriental Pearl Tower, one of Shanghai's most iconic landmarks. From the observation deck, we enjoy panoramic views of the city's impressive modern skyline, both banks of the Huangpu River, and the majestic skyscrapers reaching toward the sky. After taking time to capture this unique scenery in photographs, we allow you free time for shopping and exploring the surrounding area. In the evening, we transfer to the airport and board our domestic flight to Xi'an, one of China's historic capitals. Upon arrival, we are transferred to our hotel, complete check-in procedures, and retire to rest. Overnight stay at our hotel in Xi'an.
XI'AN > Monday, May 17, 2027 > (K,A)
After our morning breakfast, we visit the Terracotta Warriors Museum, one of the most impressive discoveries in Chinese history. As we explore this vast army of thousands of terracotta soldiers, horses, and chariots that have been hidden underground for over 2,000 years with our guide's narration, we witness the magnificent legacy of China's first emperor, Qin Shi Huang. Walking among these statues, each with a unique facial expression, we are drawn into the quiet yet enchanting atmosphere of ancient times. Next, we proceed to the Giant Wild Goose Pagoda, one of the city's spiritual symbols. While strolling through the courtyards surrounding this sacred structure where Buddhist manuscripts are preserved, we embark on a virtual journey through time, accompanied by stone carvings and elegant architectural details. In the evening, we move to the brightly lit streets of Datang Everbright City, immersing ourselves in the magical night of Xi'an with music, light shows, and an open-air ambiance inspired by the Tang Dynasty. During our evening program, we watch the impressive stage performance reflecting the Tang Dynasty, followed by our dinner featuring traditional delicacies at the Dumpling Banquet. At the end of the day, we return to our hotel in Xi'an to rest.
XI'AN > BEIJING > Tuesday, May 18, 2027 > (K)
After our morning breakfast, we first visit the Muslim Quarter. In this area, which carries the cultural traces of the historic Silk Road, we have the opportunity to get to know the life of the Chinese Hui Muslim community up close. We explore the unique atmosphere of the region by walking through a bustling market surrounded by traditional shops, the scent of spices, and street flavors. For lunch and shopping, we provide free time so you can try many different delicacies, from handmade noodles and lamb skewers to spiced dishes and local sweets. After our visits, we travel to Beijing by high-speed train. Along the way, we enjoy a comfortable journey through China's interior, watching the countryside scenery, green hills, and small towns pass by outside the windows. Upon arrival in the late afternoon, we transfer to the hotel and retire to rest after the day's activities.
BEIJING > Wednesday, May 19, 2027 > (K)
After breakfast at our hotel in the morning, we begin to explore Beijing, the capital of China, rich in historical and cultural treasures. Our first stop is the magnificent Tiananmen Square, regarded as the political and historical heart of the country. In this impressive area, one of the largest city squares in the world, we see monumental structures that have witnessed important events in Chinese history. Then, we proceed to the Forbidden City, which served as the administrative center and imperial palace for the Ming and Qing dynasties for centuries. Behind the majestic red walls, we step-by-step explore its vast courtyards, grand throne halls, and elegant details of traditional Chinese architecture, embarking on a journey into the enchanting world of the imperial era. At the day's final stop, we visit the Temple of Heaven, symbolizing the harmony between heaven and humanity with its circular architecture. We conclude our day in this impressive complex, known for its expansive parks, ancient trees, and tranquil mystical atmosphere. After the tour ends, we transfer back to our hotel. Overnight stay at our hotel in Beijing.
BEIJING > May 20, 2027 Thursday > (K,A)
After breakfast at our hotel in the morning, we set off towards the Great Wall of China, one of its most magnificent symbols. Upon arrival at either the Mutianyu or Badaling section, we take a cable car up to the walls. While walking along this legendary structure that winds through the peaks of endless mountains, we enjoy breathtaking views and feel the traces of thousands of years of history up close. After visiting the Great Wall, we proceed to the Pearl Market (Pearl Market), one of Beijing's busiest shopping areas. We are given free time to shop among colorful stalls offering a wide variety of items—from jewelry and silk products to electronics and traditional souvenirs—and to experience the local bargaining culture. Next, we visit the Summer Palace (Summer Palace), located by Kunming Lake and famous for its elegant imperial gardens. As we explore the lakeside pavilions, ornate corridors, arched bridges, and traditional garden layouts, we witness the past leisurely lifestyle of Chinese emperors. We enjoy a peaceful walk alongside the palace reflections shimmering on the calm waters of the lake. For dinner, we dine at a local restaurant featuring Peking Duck, a world-renowned delicacy of Beijing cuisine. After dinner, we transfer back to our hotel. Overnight stay at our hotel in Beijing.
PEKING TO ISTANBUL > Friday, May 21, 2027 > (K)
After our morning breakfast, during the free time given for shopping, tasting new flavors, and walking in the city parks, you can explore the city's bazaars, shopping streets, and boutique stores or rest. We will be transferred to the airport for our flight scheduled at 00:10 as determined by our guide.
ISTANBUL > Saturday, May 22, 2027
At 00:05, we are returning to Istanbul on our Turkish Airlines flight TK089. After our arrival at 05:30 in the morning, we say goodbye.
Abbreviations explanations >>> (K): Breakfast | (A): Dinner | (Ö): Lunch
About the Country
China is one of the world's most populous countries and one of its oldest civilizations, located in East Asia. Officially the People's Republic of China, it shares borders with 14 different countries: Mongolia and Russia to the north; Kazakhstan to the west; and India, Vietnam, and Laos to the south. The capital is Beijing, and the country is also home to major metropolises such as Shanghai, Xi'an, Guangzhou, and Chengdu. With a history spanning over five thousand years, China is known as the starting point of the Silk Road and the cradle of civilization for gunpowder, the compass, paper, and printing. Monumental structures like the Great Wall, the Forbidden City, the Terracotta Army, and the Summer Palace, along with cultural heritage such as Confucian philosophy, tea culture, and kung fu, make it one of the most visited destinations in the world. As the world's second-largest economy, China offers an impressive blend of traditional culture and modern life. High-speed rail networks, mega-city skylines, and traditional temples provide an experience where past and future intertwine at every step.
Official language: Mandarin (Chinese)
Currency: Chinese Yuan (CNY / RMB)
Capital: Beijing
Climate: Continental in the north, subtropical in the south
Plug type: Type A / I (not compatible with Turkish plugs – adapter recommended)
Time difference: +5 hours ahead of Turkey
Religion: Predominantly Buddhism, Taoism, and Confucianism
Visa Details
Guests holding Green Passports do not require a visa, while Turkish citizens holding Bordo Passports need a visa to enter China. An invitation letter will be provided by us. Since the visa is issued as a group visa on a single page, all members of the group must obtain the visa simultaneously. As visas typically take about 30 days to process, we kindly request that you plan your reservation process accordingly. Once the visa application has been submitted and the visas obtained, no name changes can be made. Due to the group visa nature, the visa must be obtained through our agency. All group members must travel together, entering and exiting the country simultaneously, and complete the entire journey together. For the visa application, you must have a passport valid for at least 8 months from the end date of your trip. Guests under 18 years old traveling alone or with only one parent may be required to present a document showing joint parental consent during entry and exit procedures. Therefore, we recommend that guests under 18 and their parents exercise caution regarding this matter. There is no visa requirement for Green Passport holders.
IMPORTANT NOTES:
Our tour program operates subject to a minimum participation requirement. If sufficient participation is not achieved for the package tour, it may be cancelled 30 days prior to departure. Cancellations due to insufficient participation will be communicated to you.
In cases where the tour program provides only category information without specifying names and/or offers options for the same destination, the hotel(s) will be notified by our agency 48 hours before the tour departure.
This price list and program remain valid until a new price list is issued and completely supersede any previous versions.
All prices in our package programs are limited to quotas up to a minimum of 10 people. For groups exceeding this number, there may be a price increase. Please inquire for pricing details.
For normal passports, if the issue date is more than 10 years ago, and for other passport types if the issue date is more than 5 years ago, travelers acknowledge that the agency bears no responsibility for service failures due to the operator not being the actual carrier. At all customs-controlled international departures, passengers must be present at the port 3 hours before the scheduled tour departure time. Especially for guests arriving from other cities via domestic flights to the port or airport, flight times must be adjusted to ensure arrival by the required time at the port. Consequently, any delays and/or inability to join the tour are the passenger's responsibility, and Sora has no liability for compensation towards the passenger. It is recommended that passengers personally complete check-in and seat selection on the airline's website 24 hours before the tour departure.
Sora acts as an intermediary between the airline and its passengers and is subject to the Hague Protocol of September 28, 1955. Flight schedules may change prior to departure. All flight times must be confirmed by the passenger 48 hours before the tour departure time. Passengers purchase the tour knowing and accepting that flight details may change.
Triple rooms are assigned based on hotel availability. In such rooms, the third bed is smaller than standard beds. Triple rooms consist of one large bed and one additional bed. Since additional beds are foldable or convertible (often called coach beds), participants booking as the third person and/or children are deemed to have accepted potential crowding and the type of bedding in the room. Child discounts apply only to one child per room accompanying two adults and matching the age group. Due to limited availability of TWIN (two separate beds) rooms in hotels, please verify your TWIN room request before making a reservation.
If children under 18 participate in the tour without at least one parent, the necessary consent letters must be carried by the individuals throughout the entire duration of the trip.
Panoramic city tours are 2-3 hour sightseeing tours organized to introduce cities and do not include entrance fees to museums or historical sites. These tours may be scheduled on different days, provided the content remains unchanged. Extra tours are conducted with a number of participants determined by the tour leader. If the number falls below this threshold, extra tours may be conducted with a price increase, and the dates may be changed by the tour leader according to the program flow. Tours may not take place depending on weather conditions. No visits or tours will be conducted to places where local authorities prohibit access for any reason. Sora cannot be held responsible for the inability to conduct such visits or tours.
Passengers must carry documentation regarding health issues, pregnancy status, medications used continuously, and relevant medical reports related to these medications.
Tour details, airport representative information, tour leader contact, and hotel notifications will be provided 48 hours before the tour departure.
A passport is an official document. If it is damaged, stained, torn, or otherwise compromised in any way, immigration police have the authority to deny entry. In such cases, responsibility lies with the passenger.
A visa requirement applies to Turkish citizens for this tour program. Even with a valid visa, immigration police have the authority to deny entry to a passenger. In such cases, all financial and legal responsibilities lie with the passenger. Please verify your passport information and details.
When departing from Turkish border crossings, regardless of nationality (Turkish or foreign), all passport types require a minimum validity of 6 months from the date of travel, even if a valid visa is held. Our agency does not approve bookings for passports with less than 6 months of validity. Sora bears no liability for compensation towards passengers who are unable to join the tour due to insufficient passport validity.
Guests who do not participate in the included tours specified in the program are not eligible for any refund.
What's Included
Round-trip economy class air tickets on Turkish Airlines scheduled flights on the Istanbul-Shanghai/Beijing-Istanbul route
Airport taxes
Connecting flight tickets between Shanghai and Xi'an
High-speed train tickets between Xi'an and Beijing
Total 7 nights accommodation in specified or similar 5-star hotels
Morning breakfasts as specified in the program
Beijing City Tour
Xi'an City Tour
Shanghai City Tour
Tang Dynasty Show
2 Evening dinners
Travel throughout the tour with our private group vehicle
Airport – hotel – airport transfers
Professional Turkish-speaking guide services
English local guide services
Professional liability insurance (in accordance with Law No. 1618)
Not Included
Exit tax
China visa
Tours not explicitly specified as included
Personal expenses
Travel health insurance
All services not clearly stated as included in the tour program
Tips (5 EUR per person per day, to be collected by the guide)