Shanghai, Xi’an and Beijing

Day 3: Calligraphy workshop and acrobatics show

• Embark on a picturesque journey and discover Zhujiajiao, an enchanting water town nestled just outside the bustling city of Shanghai.
• Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of China by participating in a captivating workshop led by local experts, where you can delve into the art of traditional Chinese calligraphy. Learn the intricacies of brush strokes, the symbolism behind each character, and the history that shapes this revered art form. Under the guidance of skilled instructors, you’ll have the opportunity to practice and refine your own calligraphy skills, gaining a deeper appreciation for the beauty and significance of this ancient craft. Allow yourself to be inspired as you unlock the secrets of Chinese traditional calligraphy and create your own unique masterpieces.
• Watch stunning acrobatics at an ERA performance. Enjoy an unforgettable evening filled with jaw-dropping stunts, dazzling choreography, and mesmerising storytelling.

Day 4: Cooking class and Tianzifang

• Immerse yourself in the art of Chinese cooking and savor authentic tastes to gain a deeper understanding of the cultural significance and history behind the dishes you make.
• Visit Tianzifang, a labrynth of alleyways and old Shikumen properties (a former back street of the French Concession), where you can discover all kids of snack stands, boutiques, hip cafes, and art galleries.
• Hop on the overnight train, another incredible way to explore China and experience the charm of train travel. Departing in the evening, this train allows you to make the most of your day before embarking on the rest of your journey.

Day 5: Cycle Xi’an city walls and night market

• When exploring the culinary delights of Xi’an, there are several traditional dishes that students should try. One of the most famous is the Xi’an-style Biang Biang noodles, characterized by their wide, hand-pulled noodles and robust flavors. Another must-try dish is the Roujiamo, often referred to as the “Chinese hamburger.” It consists of tender and flavorful chunks of stewed meat stuffed inside a freshly baked bread roll. For a taste of Xi’an’s Muslim influence, Yangrou Paomo is a popular choice—a hearty lamb stew served with torn pieces of unleavened bread.
• Hit the ground running (or cycling) with a bike ride around the top of Xi’an’s ancient city walls. Look over the city and try to spot the next few locations you’re visiting.
• Marvel at the many-tiered Great Wild Goose Pagoda. Dating back to the Tang Dynasty, this sacred Buddhist temple has stood over a millennium of history, culture, and spiritual devotion in China’s ancient capital.
• As the sun sets, the Great Wild Goose Pagoda Night Market comes alive with a symphony of sights, sounds, and flavors. Stroll through the vibrant lantern-lit streets, tastefully adorned with colorful stalls that sell a vast array of traditional architectures, local delicacies, handicrafts, clothing, and vibrant trinkets. Engage all your senses as you discover the bustling energy and warm hospitality that radiates from every corner.

Day 6: Terracotta Warriors

• Discover the two-thousand-year-old Terracotta Warriors, an astonishing clay army that was created to accompany China’s first emperor Qin Shi Huang into the afterlife. This extraordinary archaeological discovery, sometimes referred to as the eighth wonder of the world, is a testament to the ingenuity, craftsmanship, and power of the ancient Qin Dynasty.
• Unleash your creativity in a terracotta warrior workshop. Learn how the clay guardians were made as you make your own replica warrior.
• Explore another side to China in Xi’an’s Muslim Quarter. The Muslim Quarter, also known as Huimin Street, blends Chinese and Islamic influences. Try Chinese cuisine not as you know it, with Middle Eastern influences that arrived in China via the Silk Road.

Day 7: Beijing Hutongs and Hotpot

• Hop on a high-speed train, an exceptional mode of transportation that seamlessly connects Xi’an and Beijing. It offers a fast, comfortable, and convenient way to travel between the capital city and the historical heartland.
• Take a guided tour of the Hutongs of Beijing, narrow alleyways that wind their way through traditional courtyard homes, offering a glimpse into the city’s rich past.
• Try traditional Hotpot, a boiling broth for dipping meat and vegetables. A China must-do! Hotpot, also known as “huǒ guō” in Mandarin, is a traditional Chinese dish that involves cooking a variety of ingredients in a simmering, communal pot of flavorful broth. The broth is usually divided into two sections: a mild side for delicate ingredients and a spicy side for those seeking an extra kick. This customizable aspect of hot pot allows each diner to create their own personal flavor profile by choosing from an extensive array of dipping sauces, such as sesame, garlic, soy, and vinegar.

Day 8: Forbidden City and Variety Show

• Head to the serene gardens of the Temple of Heaven where you will come together to practice some traditional tai chi exercises. Then head deeper into the temple complex, stopping for a group photo in front of the blue-tiled Hall of Prayer for Good Harvest.
• Take a walk in Tiananmen Square. It is an educational and enlightening experience, as it offers a glimpse into China’s rich history, culture, and the significance of this iconic landmark in shaping the nation’s past and present.
• Learn about China’s imperial history at the Forbidden City. As you enter through the imposing Meridian Gate, explore the sprawling complex that was once the exclusive residence of emperors for over 500 years. Take in the panoramic view of historic Beijing from Jingshan Park. Witness a breath-taking sunset over Beijing’s skyline.
• Enjoy an original Beijing-style variety show that is listed as the first key tourism performance project in Beijing while having Chinese tea. The 90-minute show covers Beijing opera art, Peking opera singing, Chinese kung fu, Sichuan opera face changing, tea art performance, national song and dance, magic acrobatics, etc., and includes 9 different performances depends on the season.

Day 9: Great Wall hike

• Travel to the outskirts of the city and hike to a secluded and incredibly beautiful section of the Great Wall, avoiding the crowds.
• Back in the city, enjoy a Peking Duck dinner, a world-famous Beijing delicacy.

Day 10: Travel home

• Today, it’s time to head back to the airport for your flight home. The Learning Adventure’s mission is to expand minds through transformative travel experiences, so we hope that as you settle into your seat for the journey home, that all you have experienced during your trip will leave you with a feeling of increased confidence, knowledge, understanding and yearning for your next adventure!