Where History Breathes
For those who travel to walk through millennia. Journeys designed to connect you with 5,000 years of civilization, from legendary origins to dynastic power and personal heritage.
Legacy Journeys
The Dynastic Triumvirate
8 days
3 cities
20+ dynasties
From USD $ 1,516
Why this journey? A note from our founder
To tell a 3,000-year imperial story in a week, you must tell the most important one. The Dynastic Triumvirate is that story—a potent, distilled narrative for the discerning traveler. We connect the three cities that defined the empire: Xi’an, the origin; Nanjing, the southern soul; and Beijing, the final heartbeat. It is the grand narrative, brilliantly focused.
Signature Experiences on This Path
Confront The Throne and The Tomb
Step into 500 years of power at the Forbidden City and stand before the subterranean legions of the Terracotta Army. This journey confronts the two ultimate symbols of imperial authority.A Tang Dynasty Dream
In Xi’an, we don’t just visit the golden age—we embody it. You will don the elegant Hanfu robes of the Tang Dynasty and walk the vibrant, neon-lit streets of the Great Tang All Day Mall, transforming from a modern traveler into a character from a historical scroll.The Southern SAGA: Founders & Rebels
In Nanjing, explore a legacy of resilience and revolution. Stand at the mausoleum of the Ming Dynasty’s founder and then at the tomb of Sun Yat-sen, the man who ended the entire imperial system.
Your Journey, Day by Day
Day 1: Arrival at the Ancient Origin (Xi’an)
Welcome to Xi’an, the ancient origin point of the unified empire, a city where the air itself feels steeped in history. Upon your arrival at Xi’an Xianyang International Airport (XIY), our representative will greet you for your private transfer to the hotel. The remainder of the day and your evening are entirely at your leisure to settle in, relax after your journey, or perhaps take your first independent stroll to get a feel for this magnificent ancient capital. Your guided Sinovistas adventure will officially commence tomorrow morning.
Xi’an Imperial Legacy: Western Zhou, Qin, Western Han, New Chao, Eastern Han, Western Jin, Former Zhao, Former Qin, Later Qin, Western Wei, Northern Zhou, Sui, Tang
Accommodation: Selected 4-Star Hotel in Xi’an
Meals: None
Day 2: The Emperor’s Guard & The Poet’s Pagoda (Xi’an)
Today’s deep immersion into imperial China begins as you stand in the silent presence of the Terracotta Army (兵马俑), a subterranean world where thousands of life-sized warriors, each with a unique face, have stood guard for two millennia.
After returning to the city, we pivot from the First Emperor’s power to the Tang Dynasty’s golden age at the iconic Giant Wild Goose Pagoda (大雁塔), a graceful monument to faith and the spirit of the Silk Road. As evening falls, we gather for our official Welcome Dinner: a signature Xi’an Dumpling Feast, where you will sample a dazzling variety of intricately folded dumplings, a perfect and celebratory start to our journey together.
Xi’an Imperial Legacy: Western Zhou, Qin, Western Han, New Chao, Eastern Han, Western Jin, Former Zhao, Former Qin, Later Qin, Western Wei, Northern Zhou, Sui, Tang
Accommodation: Selected 4-Star Hotel in Xi’an
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Welcome Dinner
Day 3: The Silk Road’s Legacy & The Journey South (Xi’an)
Our final morning in Xi’an begins atop the colossal Ming Dynasty City Wall (明城墙), an elevated boulevard of stone so wide you can cycle its ancient ramparts. From this unique vantage point, you will gaze down at the juxtaposition of the old city’s tiled roofs set against the modern skyline.
From the ramparts, we delve into China’s treasure house: the magnificent Shaanxi History Museum (陕西历史博物馆), home to priceless Tang dynasty murals and ancient bronze artifacts that bring the story of the Silk Road to life. (Please note: Should tickets for this high-demand museum be unavailable, we will instead visit the exquisite Xi’an Museum, ensuring a world-class cultural experience).
In the afternoon, a flight carries you from the golden loess plains of the north to a city of scholars and rivers: the great southern capital, Nanjing (南京). Upon arrival, your evening is free to get a first taste of this city’s refined cuisine. You might seek out delicate pan-fried beef dumplings (niurou guotie) or a plate of the city’s famous salted duck.
Xi’an Imperial Legacy: Western Zhou, Qin, Western Han, New Chao, Eastern Han, Western Jin, Former Zhao, Former Qin, Later Qin, Western Wei, Northern Zhou, Sui, Tang
Accommodation: Selected 4-Star Hotel in Xi’an
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 4: A Southern Dynasty’s Saga (Xi’an/Nanjing)
Today is a deep dive into the two great sagas that define Nanjing. Our journey takes us to the forested slopes of Purple Mountain, where we first visit the grand Ming Xiaoling Mausoleum (明孝陵). You will walk the magnificent “Spirit Way,” lined with pairs of colossal stone animal and human statues, a powerful and serene path leading to the tomb of the Hongwu Emperor, the formidable founder of the Ming Dynasty.
From the start of one dynasty, we move to the end of them all. We then ascend the sweeping granite stairway of the iconic Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum (中山陵), a vast and solemn memorial to the man revered as the father of modern China, offering panoramic views of the city from its summit.
Tonight, your evening is free to explore the lively, lantern-lit heart of old Nanjing: the Fuzimiao (夫子庙) area. Here, along the famed Qinhuai River, you can immerse yourself in a vibrant atmosphere of teahouses, artisan shops, and a dazzling array of local food stalls. It is the perfect opportunity to taste the flavors of the city at your own pace.
Nanjing Imperial Legacy: Eastern Wu, Eastern Jin, Nan Chao, Qi, Liang, Ming
Accommodation: Selected 4-Star Hotel in Nanjing
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 5: Journey to the Northern Heartbeat (Nanjing/Beijing)
Our final morning in Nanjing is dedicated to its rich cultural treasures. We will immerse ourselves in the magnificent Nanjing Museum (南京博物院), one of China’s finest. You will have time to explore its vast collection, with a special focus on its stunning gallery dedicated to the Republic of China era, a unique exhibition that beautifully chronicles the glamour and tumult of the early 20th century.
From the southern capital, we then journey to the northern. We proceed to the station for the high-speed train that will whisk you through the Chinese countryside to Beijing (北京). Upon arrival in the final great capital of our journey, your evening is free to explore. Tonight is a perfect chance to try a culinary tradition beloved by Beijingers for centuries: a classic Beijing-style barbecue (烤肉). In a lively, historic restaurant, you can grill thinly sliced, marinated meats over a charcoal fire at your table, a deeply satisfying and authentic local experience.
Beijing Imperial Legacy: Eastern Wu, Eastern Jin, Nan Chao, Qi, Liang, Ming
Accommodation: Selected 4-Star Hotel in Beijing
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 6: The Imperial Axis (Beijing)
A packed and powerful day takes us into the very heart of Beijing’s imperial design. We begin at the serene Temple of Heaven (天坛), an architectural masterpiece of cosmic symbolism. You will walk its vast, silent courtyards, admiring the iconic, triple-gabled Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests and the famous Echo Wall, experiencing the profound quiet where emperors once prayed for their empire. From this sacred space, we dive into the living heart of old Beijing with a rickshaw ride through the ancient Hutong (胡同), glimpsing daily life as we navigate the narrow, winding alleys and pass traditional courtyard homes.
In the afternoon, we enter the magnificent Forbidden City (故宫), the labyrinthine epicenter of Chinese rule for 500 years. By visiting in the afternoon, we aim to explore its grand halls and private quarters as the morning crowds begin to wane. Tonight, your culinary adventure continues at your own leisure. For those seeking a truly unique dining experience, Beijing offers a rare opportunity to taste the complex and refined flavors of Imperial Court Cuisine (宫廷菜), a culinary tradition developed within the palace walls and once reserved only for the emperor himself, now available at select high-end restaurants throughout the city.
Beijing Imperial Legacy: Yan, Liao, Jin, Yuan, Ming, Qing
Accommodation: Selected 4-Star Hotel in Beijing
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 7: The Dragon’s Spine & A Garden of Dreams (Beijing)
Our final day of sightseeing is a journey of immense scale and artistry. We begin with a journey to the magnificent Mutianyu Great Wall (慕田峪长城), ascending by cable car for an unhurried immersion into this world wonder. You will have ample time to walk between its beautifully restored watchtowers, feeling the ancient stones under your feet as you gaze out at the stone dragon snaking endlessly over the rugged, green peaks.
In the afternoon, we retreat from the Wall’s defensive grandeur to the idyllic landscapes of the Summer Palace (颐和园), the vast and beautiful garden retreat of the Qing emperors. You will stroll its famous “Long Corridor,” an art gallery in itself, and see the magnificent Marble Boat on the serene Kunming Lake. As our journey through the three capitals concludes, we will gather for a special Farewell Dinner, sharing our final stories over a feast of exquisite, refined dishes that represent the pinnacle of Beijing’s culinary arts.
Beijing Imperial Legacy: Yan, Liao, Jin, Yuan, Ming, Qing
Accommodation: Selected 4-Star Hotel in Beijing
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Farewell Dinner
Day 8: Farewell from the Imperial Heart (Beijing)
Beijing Imperial Legacy: Yan, Liao, Jin, Yuan, Ming, Qing
Accommodation: None
Meals: Breakfast
Plan Your Journey
Dates & Prices
Start Date
End Date
Availability
Standard Tier
Start Date
End Date
Availability
Standard Tier
Pricing Notes:
Our starting price is based on a group of four or more travelers, sharing twin/double rooms in our curated selection of 4-star hotels.
For private journeys, smaller groups, or an upgrade to our Premium Tier with 5-star hotels, we would be delighted to provide you with a bespoke proposal.
A “Single Supplement” applies for solo travelers who wish to have their own room.
All prices are for the Land-Only package and do not include international airfare.
Ready to Begin?
Request a Detailed Proposal
Inclusions & Exclusions
What’s Included in Your Journey
Accommodation: 7 nights in carefully selected 4-star (Standard) hotels.
Meals: 7 Breakfasts, 6 Lunches and 2 Dinners as specified in the itinerary.
Transportation: All internal flights and First Class high-speed train journeys. All airport transfers and ground transport in a private, modern vehicle.
Guidance: A dedicated, expert English-speaking Sinovistas Storyteller Guide for each segment of your journey, will accompany you through each chapter of the narrative, ensuring seamless continuity and masterful interpretation.
Peace of Mind: Complimentary basic Accident Insurance for all foreign guests, with a maximum benefit of RMB 300,000 (approximately $41,000 USD).
Experiences: All entrance fees, workshops, and performances as listed in the itinerary.
What’s Not Included
International flights to/from China
Chinese Visa fees
Comprehensive travel insurance (mandatory)
Meals not specified in the itinerary
Gratuities for your guide and driver
Personal Expenses (e.g., laundry, drinks, souvenirs, etc.)
Essential Information
Activity Level: Active (Level 3/5)
This is a fast-paced journey designed to cover three major cities in eight days. It involves extensive walking at large historical sites and requires a good level of fitness to be fully enjoyed.Accommodation
We believe where you rest is integral to the journey. Our hotel selections are curated for a perfect balance of quality, comfort, and central location. Our standard group tours feature excellent 4-star properties. For private tours, we offer complete flexibility to tailor your accommodations to your personal style, from iconic 5-star luxury hotels to unique boutique properties.Transportation
We believe the journey is as important as the destination. We select the optimal mode of transport for each connection to ensure maximum comfort and efficiency. We utilize a convenient internal flight and China’s world-class high-speed rail network for inter-city travel. All local excursions are conducted in your private, modern, air-conditioned vehicle.Joining the Tour
This tour begins in Xi’an (XIY) and concludes in Beijing (PEK). Today is for your independent arrival. Your guided journey officially commences on the morning of Day 2. The tour concludes after breakfast on Day 8, which is your day for independent onward travel.Passports & Visas
Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your date of departure from China. A tourist visa is required for most nationalities. While you are responsible for obtaining your own visa, SinoVistas will provide all necessary supporting documentation, including a formal letter of invitation.
Important Notes
1. A Note on Itinerary Flexibility
While we make every effort to adhere to the published itinerary, travel in China can sometimes be unpredictable. Flight schedules may change, and site visiting hours can be altered with little notice. Your guide may occasionally need to adjust the sequence of activities to provide the best possible experience. We thank you in advance for your flexibility and adventurous spirit.
2. Your Digital Experience in China
To ensure a seamless journey, we recommend preparing for China’s unique digital landscape.
Payments: China operates on a near-cashless system driven by two main apps: WeChat Pay and Alipay. For convenience and true local immersion, we strongly recommend installing at least one of these apps on your phone and linking your credit card before your departure. Relying solely on cash or foreign credit cards for daily purchases can be very difficult.
Connectivity: Access to many Western social media platforms (like Facebook, Instagram, and X) and websites (like Google and YouTube) is restricted in mainland China. Many travelers choose to install a VPN (Virtual Private Network) on their phones and devices before they travel to stay connected as they would at home.
3. Passport Information for Ticketing
To ensure a smooth journey, all high-speed train and internal flight tickets in China are issued under a strict real-name policy. Therefore, we require a clear, scanned copy of the personal details page of your passport no later than 45 days prior to departure. This allows us to secure all necessary tickets on your behalf. Please be aware that any amendments to these details after tickets have been issued may require their re-purchase at your own cost.
4. Packing & Prohibited Items
A detailed packing list will be provided in your pre-departure packet. Please be mindful of security restrictions for train and air travel within China. Items such as pocket knives, aerosols over a certain limit, and large power banks are often prohibited. When in doubt, we recommend packing such items in your checked luggage.
5. Cultural Immersion & Cuisine
This journey is designed to be an authentic cultural immersion. This includes the food. We will dine at a mix of high-quality restaurants and clean, beloved local eateries. While we can cater to most dietary restrictions (e.g., vegetarian, gluten-free) with advance notice, please be aware that options may be limited in more remote areas. We encourage you to be open-minded and adventurous with your palate!
6. Tipping
Tipping has become a customary practice for rewarding good service from local guides and drivers in China’s tourism industry. While not mandatory, it is greatly appreciated. A guideline for gratuities will be provided in your pre-departure information packet.
7. Solo Travelers
We warmly welcome solo travelers. You will be paired with another traveler of the same gender for accommodation. If you wish to have your own room, a “Single Supplement” fee applies. Please inquire for the current rate.
Begin Your Journey into History
Are you ready to walk the path of emperors? Contact our specialists to receive detailed itineraries or to begin crafting a bespoke historical journey tailored to your personal interests.