2-Day Beijing Private Tour Including Great Wall from Shanghai by Bullet Train

Experience the Best of Beijing in Just Two Days from Shanghai with a Private Guide and Bullet Train

If you’re visiting Shanghai and want a quick, hassle-free way to experience Beijing’s most iconic sights, this 2-Day Private Tour offers an excellent mix of convenience, comfort, and authentic experiences. For $773 per person, you’ll travel via modern high-speed bullet train, explore the Great Wall at Mutianyu, walk through the Forbidden City, stroll the Summer Palace, and get a taste of Chinese history and culture—without the stress of planning every detail yourself.

Two things we particularly appreciate about this tour are the fully flexible itinerary — meaning you can customize it based on your interests — and the expert local guides who make history come alive. The other standout? The convenience of train travel that saves you hours and keeps the experience smooth and comfortable.

Of course, no tour is perfect for everyone. The main consideration? The intensive nature of the schedule. If you’re not comfortable with a fast-paced trip covering a lot of ground in just two days, it might feel a little rushed. Also, since hotel accommodations in Beijing aren’t included, you’ll want to plan where to stay in advance. Still, this tour is especially suited for travelers eager to maximize their time and see top sights without the hassle of logistics.

Who should consider this? It’s ideal for first-time visitors to China who want a rundown, history buffs eager to see the Great Wall and Forbidden City, or travelers with limited time in Shanghai looking for an efficient way to experience Beijing.

Key Points

• Convenient high-speed train travel between Shanghai and Beijing offers comfort and speed.
• Flexible, customizable itinerary suited to individual interests and preferences.
• Expert guides enhance understanding with engaging storytelling and local insights.
• All-inclusive options cover entrance fees, cable car ride, and local lunches for better value.
• Authentic experiences at major sites like the Great Wall, Forbidden City, and Summer Palace.
• Efficient schedule packs a lot into two days, making it a time-saving choice.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Day 1: From Shanghai to the Great Wall

Your adventure begins with a pickup in Shanghai — a friendly driver will coordinate your morning pickup, making the start smooth. From there, it’s a comfortable ride to Shanghai Railway Station, where your round-trip second-class bullet train tickets are arranged. The train ride, approximately 4-5 hours round-trip, is a highlight in itself, offering a glimpse of China’s fast-paced modernization as you zoom at speeds up to 300 km/h.

Once in Beijing, your guide (whose name might be shared at booking) will meet you for the short drive to Mutianyu, one of the most stunning sections of the Great Wall. Unlike the more crowded Badaling section, Mutianyu is praised for its peaceful setting and spectacular mountain views. The Wall here is well-preserved from the Ming Dynasty, and you’ll enjoy ample time to walk, take photos, and soak in the engineering marvel that still dominates the landscape.

What makes Mutianyu special? Its less crowded atmosphere — as one reviewer said, they climbed at a perfect point with no crowd — combined with the option of taking a cable car (if you booked the all-inclusive package) makes it accessible and enjoyable. The Wall offers not only breathtaking vistas but also an understanding of China’s defensive ingenuity.

After exploring, you’ll be dropped off at your downtown Beijing hotel or a location of your choice, saving you the hassle of navigating the city on your own.

Day 2: Beijing’s Imperial and Cultural Heart

The next morning begins with a hotel pickup for your full day of sightseeing. Your guide will tailor the itinerary based on your interests — whether that’s the Summer Palace, Forbidden City, or even the Temple of Heaven or Hutongs if you’ve been here before. The Summer Palace is a favorite for its stunning lake views and the sprawling gardens that once served as an imperial retreat.

Enjoy a delightful lunch nearby—your guide can recommend local favorites, especially if you booked the all-inclusive package. Exploring the Forbidden City in the afternoon provides a chance to marvel at ancient architecture and treasured artifacts from the Ming and Qing Dynasties. Spend about 90 minutes wandering through this vast palace complex, learning the stories of emperors, courtiers, and the architecture that reflected imperial power.

If the Forbidden City isn’t your top choice — perhaps because it’s closed on Mondays — your guide will suggest alternatives like the Temple of Heaven or Beijing Hutongs, which offer a more local, atmospheric experience.

Next, a visit to Tiananmen Square rounds out the day. As the world’s largest city square, it’s packed with historic monuments and symbolic landmarks of Chinese history. You’ll have some leisure time here, with your guide sharing stories about its significance.

In the late afternoon, you’ll head back to the train station for your return ride to Shanghai, arriving in the evening. Your driver will then escort you back to your hotel, completing the seamless experience.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

While the price of $773 per person might seem steep at first glance, consider what’s included: private guiding, entrance fees to major sites, high-speed train tickets, local lunches, and comfort of door-to-door transfers. The time saved and expert guidance make it a worthwhile investment, especially for those who want a rundown without spending days planning logistics.

The tour’s flexibility adds to its value. If you’ve already seen the Summer Palace or prefer a different site, your guide will adjust accordingly. The reviews highlight that guides like Linda and Jenny are knowledgeable and accommodating, making all the difference in understanding the sights rather than just ticking boxes.

The Experience from a Traveler’s Perspective

Reviewers praised the expert guides, calling them superb and extremely knowledgeable. They also appreciated the quality of the meals, noting that the local lunch was both delicious and satisfying. One reviewer even mentioned that they brought their 11-year-old child along and felt the schedule was manageable and engaging.

The train ride was seen as a highlight, with travelers enjoying the comfortable journey and the excitement of traveling at high speed. The less crowded sections of the Great Wall and the well-preserved architecture of the Forbidden City** received glowing comments.

Practical Tips for Making the Most of Your Tour

• Dress comfortably and be prepared for walking — moderate physical fitness is recommended.
• Bring your camera — the views from Mutianyu and the Forbidden City are unforgettable.
• Communicate your preferences early — whether you want more time at a site or wish to skip certain attractions.
• Book in advance — on average, travelers tend to reserve about 20 days ahead to secure their spot.
• Plan your Beijing hotel before the tour begins, as accommodations aren’t included.
• Be mindful of site hours — the Forbidden City is closed on Mondays, so plan accordingly.

FAQ

How are the train tickets arranged?
Round-trip second-class tickets are included, and the operator handles all bookings, ensuring smooth travel between Shanghai and Beijing.

What attractions are included in the tour?
Highlights include the Mutianyu Great Wall, Summer Palace, Forbidden City, and Tiananmen Square. You can customize the itinerary if desired.

Is transportation provided throughout the tour?
Yes, a private air-conditioned car with a driver takes you between sites and the train stations.

Are meals included?
If you choose the “All Inclusive” option, yes — the tour provides local lunches. If not, you’ll need to arrange and pay for your own food.

What if I want to visit other attractions?
The tour is fully flexible; tell your guide what interests you, and they’ll do their best to accommodate.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children are welcome, but the tour requires moderate physical activity and walking.

What should I wear?
Smart casual is fine, but comfortable shoes are a must given the walking involved.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Absolutely. You can substitute sites like the Temple of Heaven or Hutongs if you’ve already visited or have specific interests.

Is the tour available on specific days?
Yes, but keep in mind that the Forbidden City closes on Mondays, which may influence your plans.

What is the cancellation policy?
This experience is non-refundable and cannot be changed once booked, so plan accordingly.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This 2-day Beijing trip from Shanghai is perfect for first-time visitors eager to see top heritage sites without the hassle of planning logistics themselves. It’s also ideal for history enthusiasts who want a guided narrative of China’s imperial past. If you’re short on time but want a rundown, this tour provides a great balance of convenience, depth, and comfort. And for travelers who value local insights and expert guidance, this experience offers a chance to learn and explore with a knowledgeable local by your side.

To sum it up, this private, two-day tour combines speed, comfort, and culture — making it a smart choice for those who want to see Beijing without the hassle. The bullet train, private guides, and flexible itinerary deliver a personal and authentic experience, perfect for first-timers or those eager to tick off the highlights efficiently. If you’re after a well-organized, informative, and enjoyable trip, this tour offers excellent value and a memorable adventure into China’s historic capital.