Beijing in One Day: Day Trip from Shanghai by Air

If your time in China is limited and you want to see more of China, take a day trip from Shanghai to Beijing by air! Embark on a plane from Shanghai to Beijing to explore the most iconic sights of Beijing – the Forbidden City and the Great Wall of China.

Begin your day in Beijing at the Forbidden City, the largest and best preserved group of ancient buildings in China. The Forbidden City served as the imperial palace and political center of government from the Ming Dynasty to the end of the Qing Dynasty. Inside, discover the 980 surviving buildings with a total of 8,707 rooms. The palace is an excellent example of traditional Chinese architecture, including elements such as enclosed courtyards and horizontal design.

Enjoy a traditional Chinese lunch, then drive out to the Great Wall of China. This amazing feat of architecture stretches 5,500 miles (8,850 kilometers). You’ll visit the Great Wall at Badaling, built during the Ming Dynasty (1368 - 1644) and famous for its impressive scenery of the wall snaking off into the distance. As you ascend up the wall, you’ll see the hills undulating into the distance.

After you finish hiking the Great Wall, you'll be driven to Beijing International Airport for your return flight to Shanghai.