Highlights of Japan & China: Tokyo to Beijing - 14 Days

Day 1: Arrive in Tokyo (Japan), Night Food Tour in Shinjuku

Welcome to the vibrant capital of Japan, Tokyo! Your driver will pick you up at the airport and transfer you to your hotel. Get settled in and grab your walking shoes—it's time for your first of many culinary adventures. Sushi is the most famous Japanese cuisine worldwide, so it only makes sense that your first nibbles in the country are a classic. Set off on a food tour in the bustling district of Shinjuku. Your first stop is at an omakase sushi restaurant, where skilled chefs curate a personalized tasting menu. 

Take a seat at the counter and watch as the chef meticulously prepares each piece of sushi using the freshest seasonal ingredients. Test your own cooking skills next as you learn how to grill thinly sliced pieces of Wagyu beef, known as yakiniku in Japan and renowned for its exceptional marbling, tenderness, and rich flavor. Just strolling the colorful and chaotic streets of Shinjuku is a treat, but to wrap up the experience, you'll end the night with a sweet, matcha-flavored treat and drinks at a final local restaurant.

Day 2: Full-Day Tokyo Tour, Akihabara Manga & Animé Excursion

Kick off your first full day in Japan with a tour of the city with your local guide. The day begins at the Meiji Jingu, a Shinto shrine built in 1920. Stroll through the grand torii gate at the Yoyogi entrance, watch as worshippers make offerings, and pay a visit to the Meiji Jingu Museum to peruse their collection of artifacts. Next, you'll make a beeline for the Tsukiji Fish Market, the largest in Tokyo. This seafood market has stood the test of time, with roots dating back to the Edo period. Your guide will further explain Japan's culinary culture, and you’ll make a pit stop at a local restaurant to sample fresh seafood.

Head for the striking East Gardens of the Imperial Palace after lunch. This is the only part of the complex that's open to the public. Stroll along the paths and look out at the traditional tea houses, scenic ponds, and picturesque stone bridges. Continue to Senso-ji, the oldest temple in the city, built in 645 CE. Enter at the iconic Thunder Gate, adorned with a colossal red lantern, where you'll be welcomed by Nakamise-dori, a bustling shopping street. This is a great spot to snatch up souvenirs as you make your way across the complex to the Hozoman Gate.

In the evening, make a break for the neon frenzy of the Akihabara district. Known for being a manga and animé mecca, you'll find game arcades, quirky costumed characters, and multi-level animé and manga stores like Animated. Whether or not you're a Japanese animation lover, everyone can appreciate playing games and there's no better place to unleash your inner child than at GiGO Akihabara Building 3, a massive game center.

Day 3: Full-Day Mount Fuji & Lake Kawaguchi Tour, Whisky Tasting

Trade the city for the countryside this morning as you transfer 1.5 hours to the Fuji Five Lakes region to see Mount Fuji from Arakurayama Sengen Park. Ascend to the hillside Chureito Pagoda for panoramic views of the snowcapped mountain against the backdrop of seasonal foliage (like pink cherry blossoms if you visit in spring). In the afternoon, jump on a boat and cruise across Lake Kawaguchi to appreciate Mount Fuji from the glassy waters. If you're not a fan of boats, you can take a ride on the Mount Fuji Panoramic Ropeway instead.

As the cable car gracefully ascends, enjoy sweeping views of the lake, the lush greenery, and the picturesque villages. When you reach the observation deck, look out at the snowcapped peak of Mount Fuji. After thoroughly appreciating the mountain's beauty, start the drive back to Tokyo, stopping at Fuji Gotemba Distillery on the way. Step inside and learn about the meticulous whisky-making process, from the malting to the fermentation and distillation stages. Sample the different malt and grain whiskies before returning to your hotel in the city.

Day 4: Train to Kyoto, Samurai Ninja Museum & Kimono Tea Ceremony

Say goodbye to Tokyo as you head to the station this morning to catch a 2.5-hour bullet train to Kyoto, the former capital of Japan. Make your way to your hotel, where you can refresh before the tea ceremony at Kyoto Maikoya. When you arrive, change into a kimono and learn about the ceremony, called sado or chanoyu. Sit down on a tatami, a type of straw mat, and join in the ritualistic preparation and consumption of matcha led by a knowledgeable tea master. 

After the ceremony, walk five minutes to the Samurai Ninja Museum. Browse the collection of authentic samurai armor, weapons, and artifacts, all showcasing the meticulous craftsmanship of these revered warriors. Watch the multimedia presentations to gain a deeper insight into the lives and philosophies of the samurai and ninja. Before you leave, try on a full samurai armor and choose from a selection of replica swords to take a commemorative picture.

Day 5: Fushimi Inari & Kinkaku-ji Tour, Nishiki Market Food Experience

Although Kyoto is no longer the capital of Japan, it's widely considered the country's cultural capital for its rich traditions and numerous shrines, temples, palaces, and gardens. Spend half the day exploring some of these sites, starting at the UNESCO-listed Kinkaku-ji, better known as the Golden Pavilion. Stroll through the landscaped gardens and look out at the golden structure reflected in the surrounding ponds. Since you can't enter the temple, continue to another UNESCO World Heritage site, Nijo Castle, home to the first shogun (military leader) of the Edo period.

Enter the main palace to see the walls adorned with intricate paintings depicting scenes from nature and Japanese folklore. Head outside to stroll through the expansive gardens, looking out at the serene reflecting ponds. After taking in the peaceful atmosphere, visit Fushimi Inari-taisha, a shrine with over 10,000 red torii gates, all donated by individuals or businesses and inscribed with their names and wishes. Follow the torii-lined route up to the observation deck atop the mountain, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the gates and the surrounding forest.

In the evening, head to the 400-year-old Nishiki Market, often called "Kyoto's Kitchen," to browse hundreds of stalls offering an array of fresh produce, Kyoto specialties, and handmade goods. Sample pickled vegetables, yuba (tofu skin), Kyoto-style sushi, and other regional delights before ending the night with a sweet matcha-flavored treat, such as mochi, ice cream, or dorayaki (pancake filled with matcha paste). Before you leave and return to the hotel, check out the Japanese kitchen knives, ceramics, and tableware to admire the artisans' attention to detail.

Day 6: Train to Osaka, Osaka Castle & Shinsaibashi, Dotonbori Food Experience

Make your way to the station this morning to catch a 30-minute bullet train to Osaka, the perfect place for food lovers as it's often called the "Kitchen of Japan." After settling into your hotel, you can explore on your own before this evening's food tour. A good place to start is Osaka Castle, a grand structure that served as both a castle and fortress in the 16th century. Cross over the moat to get to the main tower, adorned with gilded embellishments and imposing stone walls. Ascend to the upper floors for panoramic views of the city's modern skyline and discover the museum within.

Browse the collection of artifacts, armor, and artwork before continuing to the Shinsaibashi-Suji shopping street to explore the kaleidoscope of fashion, entertainment, and gastronomic delights. Pop in and out of shops, ranging from international brands to quirky boutiques, to shop for clothing or traditional Japanese crafts. Tonight you're headed to the neon Dontonbori neighborhood for a foodie experience. Hop between the street food stalls to try city specialties like takoyaki, a savory octopus ball drizzled with sauce and bonito flakes, or shabu shabu, Japanese hot pot.

Day 7: Fly to Shanghai (China), Benbang Dinner

This morning, meet your driver in the hotel lobby and head for the airport. You'll be flying 2.5 hours from Osaka to Shanghai, China's glittering seaside metropolis. On arrival, look for your driver, who will whisk you off to your hotel for the next few nights. Tomorrow you'll hit the ground running, taking a tour of the city's highlights. Tonight is all about getting to know that city through your taste buds. Sit down to a traditional dinner of benbang cuisine, known for its unique braised cooking method that dates back to the Ming and Qing dynasties. 

This cooking style is characterized by its use of sugar, creating a caramelized color and taste, and is served with steamed rice and vegetables. Your Benbang feast might feature dishes like shi zi tou (lion head meatballs), you bao he xia (fried river shrimp), yan du xi'an (bamboo shoot soup), and ba bao la jiang (an eight-ingredient stir fry). Spend the rest of the evening relaxing at your hotel or continue strolling the vibrant streets of Shanghai.

Day 8: Highlights of Shanghai Tour 

Today you'll experience a full-day excursion through Shanghai, seeing the city's best sites. Head off with your guide, getting acquainted with the whimsical skyline that Shanghai is famous for at The Bund. Spanning over 1 mile (1.6 km), this colonial symbol of the city has changed dramatically over the last century. The waterfront promenade is situated along the Huangpu River and offers truly stunning views with a beautiful mix of both modern and historic architecture. 

Head for the Yu Garden next, a sprawling green space tucked against the City God Temple. The first iteration of these gardens was built in the 16th century by a Ming governor and dedicated to his father. Connected to the Yu Garden, the Yuyuan Market is another must-see sight. Here you'll find vendors hawking everything from souvenirs to the famous xiaolongbao dumplings.

You'll make a beeline for the French Concession after lunch. Visit Fuxing Park, where locals take part in leisurely activities like tai chi, explore the lilang neighborhoods of the Bugaoli Community, and see the traditional shikumen, also known as stone gatehouses. End your tour of the city by getting a birds-eye perspective at the tip top of the Shanghai Tower. You'll ride the ultra-high-speed elevator to reach the Observation Deck, which provides breathtaking 360-degree views.

Day 9: Fly to Xi'an, Ancient City Wall & Cycling Excursion

Kick off your fourth day in China with a flight to Xi'an, arriving in the provincial capital of Shaanxi Province in 2.5 hours. Your private tour guide and driver will be awaiting your arrival, and then it's time to hit the ground running—or, in fact, biking! Take a tour of the city by bicycle, riding on top of the Ancient City Wall. These centuries-old stone walls were commissioned in the late 14th century by Zhu Yuanzhang, the first emperor of the Ming Dynasty, to protect the city. 

Running a length of 8.7 miles (14 km) in a rectangular pattern, these are the most well-preserved ancient walls in all of China. Along the way, you'll have panoramic views of some of Xi'an's best sites, including the Bell Tower, the Great Mosque, and the various gates. If you have time left over after your tour, take the time to tour some of these sites. History buffs will love the Shaanxi Museum, which further explores the region through artifacts and exhibitions. The Giant Wild Goose Pagoda is another favorite that deserves an up-close peek.

Day 10: Terracotta Army & Muslim Quarter Tour

Continue in your pursuit of ancient Chinese wonders today at the Terracotta Warrior Museum. Located about an hour outside of Xi'an, this enormous site covers approximately 38 square miles (98 sq km), and its discovery in 1974 represents one of the most important archaeological finds of the 20th century. The massive collection of incredibly detailed, life-size clay sculptures guards the tomb of Qin Shi Huang, founder of the Qin Dynasty and the first emperor of China, reigning from 221 BCE to 210 BCE. 

The complex is split into two main sites, the Lishan Garden and the museum and pits. You'll visit both with a knowledgeable guide who will help explain this sprawling, subterranean necropolis. Touring the massive excavation pits, you'll see various warriors, chariots, and cavalry figures, each with unique expressions and even varying postures. Spend hours discovering the secrets of the army, then head back to Xi'an for the afternoon. 

Spend the rest of the day exploring the Muslim Quarter. It's here where the start of the famed Silk Road began, leading 4,000 miles (6,437 km) to Turkey. Known for having delicious halal cuisine, don't miss the neighborhood's foodie favorites like roujiamo (lamb burgers) or yangrou paomo (lamb stew). Other Xi'an favorites, like biangbiang noodles, can also be found in these street food stalls.

Day 11: Train to Beijing, Peking Duck Dinner

Rise and shine early this morning because you have a train to catch. Make the 5.5-hour journey from Xi'an to Beijing, winding through the countryside. A private guide will be waiting at the train station to whisk you off to your accommodation for the next few nights. Beijing has been China's capital since the 13th century and has a rich history to show for it. From the Forbidden City to densely packed hutong neighborhoods, you'll be uncovering Beijing for the next few days. Tonight, you're in for a classic Chinese culinary treat.

Beloved by all who sample it, no visit to Beijing would be complete without trying the city's signature foodie experience—Peking duck. Served since Imperial times and named after Beijing's Anglicized name "Peking," you'll head to a local restaurant to indulge in this royal delicacy. Known for having a delicate, crispy skin, the duck is traditionally served with spring onions, hoisin sauce, and cucumber before being rolled in thin pancakes. Sample this delicacy at one of the city's favorite restaurants as you dine shoulder-to-shoulder with both fellow visitors and locals. 

Day 12: Forbidden City Excursion, Visit Hutongs & Local Family

Begin your second day in Beijing by uncovering thousands of years of history with a local guide. Start at Tiananmen Square, best known for its modern political upheaval in 1989, but also as a cultural mecca. Spanning 100 acres (40 ha), this is the largest public space in the country and includes landmarks like the Mausoleum of Mao Zedong. Next, you'll make your way to the historic beating heart of China, Beijing's mysterious Forbidden City. Once the home of the emperor of China, along with thousands of concubines and eunuchs, the city operated for hundreds of years without a single outsider entering its walls. 

Fortunately for you, you'll be allowed entry today. Follow your guide through its gleaming halls, countless pavilions, and the mesmerizing labyrinth of rooms, antechambers, and gates. To put it in perspective, this is the largest palace complex in the entire world. Later in the day, you'll discover more of Beijing on a visit to the hutong neighborhoods. You'll zoom through the alleyways by a traditional mode of transportation—pedicab. This beautiful maze of humanity has always been home to ordinary Beijing families and still offers a glimpse of authentic everyday life in the capital.

You'll have the chance to step inside a siheyuan, a traditional residence characterized by having four sides and a small courtyard at its center. These buildings are connected by covered pathways that protect from snow in winter and the sun in summer. Many Beijingers still call these siheyuan home.

Day 13: Full-Day Great Wall of China Tour

When you picture China, one monument probably comes to mind. Snaking over 13,000 miles (20,921 km) through the countryside all the way to the Pacific Ocean, the Great Wall of China is one of the most iconic landmarks in the world. Today you'll head for the Mutianyu section, a well-preserved segment with stately watchtowers that traverses rolling landscapes and was originally built to protect China from northern invaders like Genghis Khan. Hike for two to six hours, depending on how much of the wall you'd like to see. 

After visiting the Great Wall, you'll return to Beijing via the Changling Tomb, the final resting place of the Ming-era Yongle emperor (Zhu Di) and his empress, Xushi. The largest Ming tomb near Tianshou Mountain, it's particularly famous for its exceptionally preserved Ling'en Hall (Hall of Eminent Favor), made from rare Chinese cedarwood. The same towering trunks of these trees were used to construct various sections of the Forbidden City.

Day 14: Depart Beijing