Classics China Journey
華夏初章

2 WEEKS IN BEIJING, XI’AN, SHANGHAI

Program Overview

A first journey to China often begins with its “golden triangle” of cities—Beijing, Xi’an, and Shanghai. In Beijing, students explore the nation’s political and cultural heart, from the Great Wall and Forbidden City to lively hutongs. Xi’an takes them back to the Silk Road and the Terracotta Warriors, inspiring curiosity about global connections. Shanghai reveals China’s dynamic present and future with its skyline, modern art, and waterfront along the Bund. Together, these three cities offer a balanced introduction to China’s history, innovation, and daily life—an engaging foundation for reflection on civilization, cultural exchange, and global change.

Suggested Time

March — June
Oct — Dec

Group Size (6:1 Ratio)

12 Students
2 Chaperons

Suggested Ages

12 — 22

Program Highlights

HISTORY & CULTURE

Experience China’s rich history and dynamic present through world-class landmarks and cultural sites that showcase the depth of its civilization.

MANDARIN IN ACTION

Build and improve Mandarin skills through classes and family interactions, also making new friends in real-life settings.

HANDS-ON CREATIVITY

Hand-on cultural activities, fun and interactive learning, make your own souvenir for your friend and family.

TASTE OF CHINA

Students will get to enjoy the authentic Chinese foods and snacks they’ve seen online—finally tasting the flavors they’ve been eager to try.

Day 9, Cultural activity: make you own warrior

Itinerary

Day	Highlights
1-2 Beijing	Arrival and First Impressions We begin our adventure with a flight across the Pacific to Beijing, where our guide greets us and stays with the group throughout the trip. That evening, we will enjoy a welcome dinner to settle in, connect with each other, and get ready for the exciting days ahead before checking into our hotel.
3-4 Beijing	History, Hutongs, and the Great Wall We dive into Beijing’s history at the Forbidden City before teaming up for an Amazing Race-style scavenger hunt through the Gulou and Hutong neighborhoods. Lunch with local families lets us practice language skills, and a visit with a cricket-fighting master reveals a unique tradition. We end the day with a Peking duck feast. The next day, we climb the Great Wall for breathtaking views, then visit a traditional Kung Fu school to train alongside students and learn about their discipline. Each evening wraps up with shared dinners and reflections on the day’s adventures.
5-9 Xi'an	Xi’an — Living History and Cultural Connection A high-speed train takes us to Xi’an, where history and culture come alive. We cycle along the ancient City Walls, enjoy a traditional shadow puppet performance, and even try our hand at puppetry. A full-day school exchange allows students to join local classes and activities, building friendships and practicing Mandarin in a natural setting. We also pair students with local families for an unforgettable day of shared meals, laughter, and cultural exchange. Beyond the city, we explore a traditional cave-dwelling village through paper-cutting, tunnel visits, and making flower-shaped steamed buns. Students take part in an archaeological dig at the Han Tombs, then stand in awe before the Terracotta Warriors—capping the experience by creating their own miniature warriors in a hands-on workshop. Evenings bring Xi’an’s famous cuisine and the dazzling lights of Datang Everbright Fantasy Park.
11-13 Shanghai	Shanghai — The Future Meets the Past Our Shanghai adventure balances the city’s historic roots with its cutting-edge future—perfect for sparking classroom conversations. We begin in the peaceful Yu Gardens and Old Town, where students connect with centuries-old traditions before tasting steaming baskets of Xiaolongbao (soup dumplings). In the tree-lined French Concession, stories of jazz clubs, diplomats, and revolutionaries bring global history to life, while the Shanghai Center in Pudong showcases China’s rapid rise. Along the way, students practice a little Mandarin in a cozy café, join a scavenger hunt on Nanjing Road, and reflect during a magical evening cruise on the Huangpu River. The trip closes with a lively farewell hotpot dinner and a ride on the lightning-fast Maglev Train—experiences that help students see how history, culture, and innovation intersect in ways they’ll carry back to the classroom

Options

Program Flexibility
The itinerary can be adjusted to 10–11 days by shortening the stay in Xi’an. An optional day trip to Hangzhou or Suzhou can also be added before departure from Shanghai.
Company Visit
Gain first-hand experience at China’s leading technology companies in sectors such as the internet, artificial intelligence, and logistics. Learn how AI is transforming everyday life and shaping the future.
Charity Program
Take part in meaningful public service projects that support vulnerable communities through hands-on, impactful action.