Ancient China Tour: Xi’an – Luoyang – Zhengzhou – Kaifeng

Through 13 dynasties — from Zhou, Qin, Han, Sui, Tang to Ming — Xi’an has evolved into a magnificent imperial capital, bustling with palaces, tombs, heroes, and beauties. Seventy-three emperors left an immense legacy, including the Mausoleum of Emperor Qin Shi Huang, who unified China and built over 6,000 km of the Great Wall.

Visitors to Xi’an can also hear about ancient beauties, especially the tragic romance between Emperor Tang Xuanzong and Lady Yang Guifei, one of China’s Four Great Beauties, whose story still lingers at the Huaqing Palace. Another symbol of Xi’an is the Giant Wild Goose Pagoda, over 1,300 years old, built to house the Buddhist scriptures and relics brought from India by the famous monk Tang Xuanzang in Journey to the West.

Luoyang – The Cradle of Chinese Civilization and the City of Peonies

Located in western Henan Province, Luoyang is one of the Four Great Ancient Capitals of China and the birthplace of the Huaxia civilization. It is also known as the home of the peony, the national flower symbolizing nobility and prosperity — a passion deeply rooted in local culture for centuries.

Join the journey Zhengzhou – Kaifeng – Shaolin Temple – Luoyang – Xi’an, and travel back in time through key chapters of Chinese history. Discover breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and spiritual depth unique to these ancient lands.

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

Xi’an – The Glorious Capital of Thirteen Dynasties

Xi’an, the “historical heart” of China, once served as the capital for 13 great dynasties including Zhou, Qin, Han, Sui, and Tang. Seventy-three emperors left monumental heritage — from Emperor Qin Shi Huang’s Terracotta Army to the Giant Wild Goose Pagoda, where sacred Buddhist texts were preserved after Tang Xuanzang’s pilgrimage to India.

Xi’an – The Beating Heart of Chinese History

In Xi’an, every brick and statue whispers stories of the past. The tale of Emperor Tang Xuanzong and Lady Yang Guifei at Huaqing Palace remains an eternal symbol of love and power. At night, the Great Tang Everbright City glows in dazzling lights, recreating the splendor of ancient Chang’an. Visitors can even dress in Tang Dynasty Hanfu costumes and immerse themselves in the culture of imperial China within a modern world.

Luoyang – Cradle of Huaxia Civilization and Land of Peonies

As one of China’s Four Great Ancient Capitals, Luoyang embodies the essence of Chinese culture and heritage. It is also the birthplace of the peony, the emblem of beauty and wealth.

Admire the Sublime Beauty of the Ancient Capital

A must-visit is the Longmen Grottoes, a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring over 97,000 meticulously carved Buddha statues along the cliffs beside the Yi River. This is considered the greatest Buddhist sculpture museum in the world, showcasing the artistry and spiritual devotion of people from over 1,500 years ago.

Shaolin Temple – The Birthplace of Kung Fu and Zen Buddhism

Located in Henan Province, Shaolin Temple is not only China’s most famous monastery but also the symbol of martial arts and Zen spirit. Visitors can watch authentic Kung Fu performances by Shaolin monks and feel the sacred aura of this 1,500-year-old temple — the very heart of Chinese martial philosophy.

In autumn, the ancient ginkgo tree within the temple courtyard turns golden, creating a breathtaking scene that captivates every visitor.

Kaifeng – The Ancient City of Justice and Faith

Kaifeng, once the flourishing capital of the Northern Song Dynasty, is closely tied to the legendary upright judge Bao Zheng (Judge Bao). Here, you can visit the Bao Gong Temple, built in his honor, and the Kaifeng Prefecture, where reenactments of famous trials with “Dog-Head Guillotine” and “Dragon-Head Guillotine” bring history to life.

Beyond its history, Kaifeng charms visitors with its timeless streets, red lanterns, and echoing drumbeats — a thousand-year-old melody of justice and resilience.

Guanyin Ancient Temple – Home of the 1,400-Year-Old Ginkgo Tree

One of the most peaceful stops on the journey, Guanyin Ancient Temple, dates back to the Tang Dynasty. Within its courtyard stands a 1,400-year-old ginkgo tree, a national heritage symbol of longevity and fortune. Every autumn, its golden leaves blanket the temple grounds in a scene of poetic serenity.

Muslim Quarter – The Culinary Soul of Xi’an

End your journey at the Muslim Quarter, the heart of Xi’an’s street food culture. From lamb dumplings, biangbiang noodles, spicy grilled skewers, to sour-spicy soups, every dish bursts with flavor, blending traditional Chinese cuisine with unique Muslim influences.

As you stroll down lantern-lit streets filled with mouthwatering aromas, you’ll feel the vibrant rhythm and warmth of Xi’an — a perfect finale to your “Journey Through a Thousand Years of History.”

TOUR SPECIAL FEATURES

• 4-star hotel accommodation, no forced shopping
• Direct flight routes, saving time with a well-balanced itinerary
• Special highlight: Two high-speed train rides (Xi’an–Luoyang and Zhengzhou–Xi’an)
• Complimentary experiences:
  • One hotpot meal
  • Tang Dynasty costume experience
  • Seasonal fruit-picking activity
• Dayroom hotel on Day 5 before airport transfer
• Professional and experienced Chinese-speaking tour guides
• Visit the Terracotta Army of Emperor Qin Shi Huang
• Explore the Giant Wild Goose Pagoda, symbol of Shaanxi Province
• Stop at Shaolin Temple and enjoy the world-famous Kung Fu Show
• Discover Luoyang, one of China’s Four Great Ancient Capitals
• Admire the UNESCO World Heritage Longmen Grottoes
• Marvel at the Eighth Wonder of the World – Terracotta Warriors

INCLUDED SERVICES

• Round-trip airfare: Hanoi – Xi’an // Xi’an – Hanoi (20kg checked baggage + 7kg hand luggage)
• Second-class high-speed train tickets (Xi’an–Luoyang // Zhengzhou–Xi’an)
• 4-star local hotels (2 persons per room; extra bed for odd numbers)
• Meals as per itinerary (50 RMB per meal, 8 dishes + 1 soup)
• Transportation by modern air-conditioned coach
• Entrance fees to all attractions mentioned
• Chinese group visa for Vietnamese citizens
• Vietnamese-speaking tour guide and local guides throughout the trip
• 1 bottle of water per person per day
• Travel insurance coverage up to USD 10,000
• Complimentary gift: Tour hat

EXCLUDED SERVICES

• Passport issuance fees
• Tips for driver and guide: USD 6 / person / day
• Personal expenses (laundry, drinks, etc.)
• Optional shows (e.g., Camel Bell Show – approx. 350 RMB/person)
• Other expenses not listed
• VAT invoice (if required)
• Single supplement fee
• Overweight baggage charges

IMPORTANT NOTES

• According to new immigration regulations, minors (under 18) must provide a copy of birth certificate and copies of parents’ ID or passports (authorization not required if parents do not travel).
• The order of attractions may change depending on circumstances but will maintain full itinerary.
• Child price applies when sharing a bed with parents; a separate bed requires full adult fare.
• Applicable for travelers aged 10–69; travelers aged 70–74 incur a premium insurance surcharge. Those 75+ must provide a medical certificate and be accompanied by a healthy relative under 60.
• As a group tour, the trip departs with a minimum of 10 adults. If fewer than 10 participants, departure date may be rescheduled or full refund offered.
• Solo travelers with a child under 10 must pay adult rate for the child’s separate bed.
• The company is not responsible if travelers are denied exit or entry due to invalid or unclear documents or expired passports.
• Flight times and itinerary order are subject to change depending on operational conditions.
• Passports must be valid for at least 6 months from departure date.
• Travelers must stay with the group throughout the journey.
• Customers with facial cosmetic surgery must renew their passport; the company bears no responsibility for entry denial in such cases.

VISA APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS

(Documents must be completed at least 15 days before departure)

• Valid passport with at least 6 months remaining (For new-style passports without birthplace info, a notarized page showing place of birth is required)
• One (1) 4×6 cm white-background photo (no white shirt, forehead and ears visible, no jewelry, no glasses)

In case of unforeseen circumstances

In events such as terrorism, natural disasters, or changes in public transport schedules (flights, trains, etc.), the company reserves the right to modify the itinerary for passengers’ safety and convenience, and will not be liable for arising losses.

We wish you a joyful and meaningful journey!