13 Days Spiritual Odyssey: Zen & Taoist China

Date: Mar1 & Nov 30, 2026, 2027

Price: 3650

Trip Focus: Zen & Taoist China

Status: Open to Booking

Route: Beijing—Shanxi—Chengdu—Shanghai

Trip Code: CF001

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Overview

This 13-day spiritual journey offers an immersive exploration of China's profound Buddhist and Daoist traditions. Travel from Beijing's imperial grandeur to the sacred sites of Shanxi and Sichuan, where ancient wisdom comes alive through temple visits, mountain retreats, and cultural practices. Experience the perfect balance of historical discovery and personal reflection as you journey through China's spiritual landscape.

Begin in Beijing with evening illuminations at the Temple of Heaven and seasonal royal garden experiences. Explore the philosophical foundations at the Forbidden City and Baiyun Temple before traveling to Shanxi's Buddhist wonders. Discover the rock-cut marvels of Yungang Grottoes, the gravity-defying Hanging Temple, and embark on a pilgrimage through Wutai Mountain's sacred sites.

Continue to Sichuan where Qingcheng Mountain awaits with Daoist tea ceremonies, tai chi sessions, and mountain herb discoveries. Observe pandas through the lens of Daoist harmony, experience urban Zen at Chengdu's ancient monasteries, and witness the colossal Leshan Giant Buddha. Conclude in Shanghai, where ancient temples stand amidst modern skyscrapers, and a creative vegetarian banquet brings your journey full circle.

Key Highlights

·Imperial Philosophy: Decode Yin-Yang principles in the Forbidden City's architecture

·Buddhist Marvels: Explore Yungang Grottoes' rock-cut art and Wutai Mountain's sacred temples

·Daoist Heritage: Practice tai chi and learn herbal wisdom at Qingcheng Mountain

·Giant Buddha Experience: Cruise past the 71-meter Leshan Giant Buddha

·Cultural Practices: Tea ceremonies, calligraphy, and Sichuan opera performances

·Chinese Cuisine: From Beijing roast duck to mountain wellness banquets

Featured Architectural Introductions

Wutai Mountain: Buddhist Sacred Ground

As one of China's Four Sacred Buddhist Mountains, Wutai Mountain has been a pilgrimage site for over 2,000 years. The mountain's five flat peaks create a natural mandala, with each terrace dedicated to different manifestations of Manjushri Bodhisattva. Home to 53 active monasteries, Wutai Mountain represents the living tradition of Chinese Buddhism, where ancient rituals continue amidst stunning natural scenery.

Qingcheng Mountain: Daoist Serenity

Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Qingcheng Mountain is known as "the most serene mountain under heaven." As the birthplace of Daoism, it embodies the philosophy of harmony between humans and nature. The mountain's ancient pathways, hidden temples, and clear streams create the perfect environment for practicing Daoist traditions and experiencing natural balance.

Leshan Giant Buddha: Monumental Compassion

Carved into a cliff face during the Tang Dynasty, the Leshan Giant Buddha stands 71 meters tall, making it the world's largest stone Buddha statue. This engineering marvel represents the Buddhist ideal of compassion, as it was constructed to calm the turbulent river waters that endangered passing boats. The statue's serene expression continues to inspire visitors 1,200 years after its completion.

Map

Itinerary

Day 1: Beijing – Imperial Arrival & Capital's Evening Charm

・Morning: Arrival at Beijing Capital Airport. A private transfer will take you to your hotel for check-in.

・Afternoon: Begin your journey with a cultural orientation at the magnificent Temple of Heaven, where you will decode its cosmic symbolism and learn about its role in imperial rituals.

・Evening: Experience the city's transition from day to night with a stroll through the lively Temple of Heaven park. Depending on the season, enjoy an exclusive evening activity—a serene boat ride on Kunming Lake in the Summer Palace ・(summer/autumn) or a magical lantern viewing event at the Temple of Heaven (winter). The day concludes with a welcome ・dinner featuring Beijing's signature BBQ.

Meals: Dinner | Accommodation: UrCove by Hyatt Beijing Tiananmen

Day 2: Beijing – The Forbidden City's Philosophy & Daoist Wisdom

・Morning: Delve deep into the Forbidden City. This tour goes beyond the surface to explore the Yin-Yang principles and philosophical concepts embedded in the layout of the world's largest palace complex.

・Afternoon: Visit the active Baiyun Temple, a central hub of Daoist culture. A special highlight is a guided analysis of the precious mural depicting the legendary travels of Taoist master Qiu Chuji.

・Evening: Your evening is free for independent exploration of the traditional hutongs(alleyways) near your hotel.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner | Accommodation: UrCove by Hyatt Beijing Tiananmen

Day 3: Beijing – Summer Palace Serenity & an Intangible Cultural Heritage

・Morning: Find a moment of tranquility with a guided meditation or quiet reflection overlooking Kunming Lake from the Summer Palace, practicing "Zen in the Garden."

・Afternoon: Engage in a hands-on ceramic carving workshop. Under a master artisan's guidance, learn this intricate art form, a recognized intangible cultural heritage.

・Evening: Savor a culinary highlight with a feast of world-famous Beijing Roast Duck.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner | Accommodation: UrCove by Hyatt Beijing Tiananmen

Day 4: Datong – Buddhist Rock-Cut Masterpieces

・Morning: Board a high-speed train for the scenic journey to Datong.

・Afternoon: Stand in awe before the majestic Yungang Grottoes, a UNESCO World Heritage site showcasing the peak of Northern Wei Dynasty Buddhist rock-cut art. Later, visit the majestic Huayan Temple from the Liao and Jin dynasties.

・Evening: Transfer to the historic town of Hunyuan at the foot of Hengshan Mountain.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner | Accommodation: Yongding Shanshui Residence

Day 5: Hengshan – Architectural Marvels & Sacred Peaks

・Morning: Ascend to the breathtaking Xuankong Si (Hanging Temple), a marvel of engineering clinging to a cliff face, representing a unique harmony of Buddhism, Daoism, and Confucianism.

・Afternoon: Visit the Yingxian Wooden Pagoda, the world's oldest and tallest multi-story all-wooden pagoda, and marvel at its ingenious, earthquake-resistant design.

・Evening: Enjoy a picturesque drive to the sacred Buddhist realm of Wutai Mountain.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner | Accommodation: Wutai Mountain Yinlong Hotel

Day 6: Wutai Mountain – A Buddhist Pilgrim's Journey

・Full Day: Immerse yourself in the spiritual atmosphere of Wutai Mountain. Visit its core monasteries, including the iconic Tayuan Temple with its grand white stupa and the ancient Xiantong Temple. Complete the essential pilgrim's circuit by ascending to Dailuo Ding to pay homage to the Five Manifestations of Manjushri.

・Evening: Optional participation in evening chanting and a group discussion to reflect on the day's profound experiences.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner | Accommodation: Wutai Mountain Yinlong Hotel

Day 7: Chengdu / Qingchengshan – From Mountain Spirit to Daoist Birthplace

・Morning: Optional early morning chanting ceremony at a monastery for a deeply moving experience.

・Afternoon: Fly to the relaxing city of Chengdu and directly transfer to the foothills of Qingcheng Mountain, a UNESCO site and birthplace of Daoism.

・Evening: Settle into your mountain resort and be welcomed with a serene Daoist tea ceremony, followed by a wellness banquet.

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner | Accommodation: Mingyu Qingcheng Mountain Resort

Day 8: Qingcheng Mountain – Daoist Practices in Nature

・Morning: Awaken your body and mind with a session of Tai Chi and Baduanjin exercises led by a master instructor amidst the mountain's tranquil forests.

・Afternoon: Connect with nature on a guided herb discovery walk, then calm your mind in a Daoist calligraphy workshop, using the brush as a form of active meditation.

・Evening: Enjoy a hearty mountain vegetarian hot pot.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner | Accommodation: Mingyu Qingcheng Mountain Resort

Day 9: Chengdu – Pandas in Nature & Urban Zen

・Morning: Visit the Dujiangyan Panda Base to observe China's national treasure in a naturalistic setting, reflecting on the Daoist philosophy of harmony they represent.

・Afternoon: Return to Chengdu for a traditional tea ceremony at the peaceful Wenshu Monastery, followed by free exploration of the vibrant Kuanzhai Alleyzi.

・Evening: Be mesmerized by the speed and artistry of a live Sichuan Opera performance, famous for its "Bian Lian" (face-changing) act.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner | Accommodation: Chengdu Guofeng Hotel

Day 10: Leshan – The Giant River Buddha

・Morning: Travel by high-speed train to Leshan, known as a "Food Capital."

・Afternoon: Take a boat on the river to behold the awe-inspiring, 71-meter tall Leshan Giant Buddha, carved into a cliff during the Tang Dynasty.

・Evening: Sample local delicacies like "Bang-Bang Chicken" before returning to Chengdu.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner | Accommodation: Chengdu Guofeng Hotel

Day 11: Shanghai – Megacity Lights & Timeless Traditions

・Morning: Enjoy a final morning in Chengdu with a choice: experience local life at a People's Park tea house or explore the city's important Qingyang Palace.

・Afternoon: Fly to the dynamic metropolis of Shanghai and transfer to your hotel near the Bund.

・Witness the stunning illuminated spectacle of the Bund's colonial architecture against the futuristic Pudong skyline.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner | Accommodation: Ji Hotel Shanghai Lujiazui

Day 12: Shanghai – Spiritual Integration & Reflective Farewell

・Morning: Discover how tradition thrives in a modern megacity with visits to the dazzling Jing'an Temple and the lively City God Temple area.

・Afternoon: Gather for a final, contemplative "Zen-inspired tea ceremony" by the Huangpu River to share reflections on the journey.

・Evening: Enjoy a farewell dinner celebrating the culinary journey.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner | Accommodation: Ji Hotel Shanghai Lujiazui

Day 13: Shanghai – Departure

・Morning: Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at the hotel.

・Afternoon: A private transfer will take you to Shanghai Pudong International Airport for your departure, marking the end of this profound cultural journey.

Meals: Breakfast

Dates & Prices

1. Dates

Mar 1-Nov 30,2026

AbsolutePanda can tailor-make this trip according to your time and interest.

2. Prices

The AbsolutePanda team works hard to provide the highest quality tour experiences at a fair price. However, after working in the travel industry for more than 20 years, our team knows that no two travelers are alike in terms of their travel style, personal interest, choice of guides and preferences in restaurants and hotels. For AbsolutePanda, our client’s satisfaction is a top priority. To meet the needs of different clients and ensure they enjoy a trip suited to their preferences, you are welcome to email with specific requests ranging from trip themes, guides, the quality of vehicles, accommodations, and restaurants. Our group trip price has the following includes and excludes below.

To ensure our guest the best trip, we set our minimum departure number at four and the maximum departure number at eight. That means the group size is 8 to 12 participants.

The cost for a group of 8 to 12 people:
3560 USD/PAX

Single supplement:
420 USD/PAX

The cost includes:
1. Well-chosen vehicles based on the size of the group for the trip with fuel, tolls, airport pick-up and drop-off included in the price;
2. An English-speaking guide for the whole trip;
3. Meals as indicated by BLD (B for breakfast, L for Lunch and D for dinner)in the itinerary. Picnic lunch when photograph in the field.

5. Complimentary water and snacks during the trip.

6. Entrance fee for the scheduled spots visited with guide in the itinerary .
7. China Domestic Travel Insurance;
8. Hotels arranged during this trip;

The cost excludes:
1. Alcoholic drinks during the meal;
2. Extra charges due to change of itinerary from client-side or factors beyond the control of AbsolutePanda such as natural disaster and governmental policy change;
3. Discretionary tips to the guide and driver;
4. All personal expenses, such as laundry service or for personal shopping;
5. Any items not listed in the itinerary as included;
6. Entrance fee, car rental, or meals during your free time trip;
7. Single supplement;

Notes:
1. The prices above are not applicable during any Chinese festivals and holidays. We recommend you to avoid travelling during Chinese festivals and holidays for a better experience.
2. For travelers who hope to tailor-make the day programs with their specific travel preferences in mind (transportation, hotels, special privileges, and famous local experts), tailor-making a tour is the best way to ensure your desires are met. Please contact us with your specific needs and we will make an itinerary based on your expectations. Once you confirm, we work out the cost and send it to you. Please feel free to ask any questions to learn more.
3. Please note that guides with specialized knowledge are not always available, especially during our peak tour season (April to October). If you are in the process of planning a trip, please contact us as early as possible so that we will block the date of our expert guide for you.

When you put your trust in our team, we are certain to help you enjoy an unforgettable travel experience!

Accommodations

UrCove by Hyatt Beijing Tiananmen

The UrCove by Hyatt enjoys a privileged location in the heart of Beijing, placing guests within a serene dialogue with the city's imperial history. Just a short stroll from the monumental Tiananmen Square and the ancient hutongs, the hotel serves as a perfect modern sanctuary. The design philosophy centers on "creating an urban oasis," offering a peaceful retreat after days of exploration. Its thoughtful layout and comfortable amenities ensure that every guest finds a quiet corner to reflect on the day's cultural immersions.

Yongding Shanshui Residence · Hunyuan Ancient City

The Yongding Shanshui Residence is nestled within the historic walls of Hunyuan Ancient City, at the sacred foot of Mount Heng. This residence offers an intimate encounter with the town's timeless atmosphere, as if the whispers of history are carried on the mountain breeze. The architecture and interior design reflect a deep respect for local traditions, blending seamlessly with the ancient surroundings. Staying here is not merely about accommodation; it is about experiencing the serene pace and authentic character of a traditional Chinese town, providing a profound sense of place before venturing to the Hanging Temple.

Wutai Mountain Yinlong Hotel

The Wutai Mountain Yinlong Hotel is situated in the spiritual heart of Taihuai Town, placing guests at the center of the Wutai Mountain pilgrimage experience. The hotel is designed to be a tranquil haven amidst the sacred landscape, where the serene ambiance of the mountain permeates the space. Many rooms are oriented to offer peaceful views of the town's ancient rooftops or the surrounding peaks, allowing the majestic and pious atmosphere of this Buddhist sanctuary to flow inward, enriching the guest's contemplative journey.

Mingyu Qingcheng Mountain Resort

The Mingyu Qingcheng Mountain Resort is masterfully integrated into the lush foothills of Qingcheng Mountain, a UNESCO World Heritage site known as "the most serene mountain under heaven." The resort embodies the Daoist philosophy of harmony with nature. Its architecture opens up to embrace the surrounding forests and streams, creating a seamless flow between indoor tranquility and outdoor vitality. Waking up here is an experience in itself—the clean, crisp mountain air and the profound quietude offer a perfect environment for meditation and rejuvenation, deeply aligning with the day's practices of Tai Chi and herbal discovery.

Chengdu Guofeng Hotel

The Chengdu Guofeng Hotel is a haven of modern comfort infused with subtle Chinese aesthetic elements, strategically located to offer both convenience and calm. It provides an ideal base from which to explore Chengdu's vibrant urban energy, from the bustling Kuanzhai Alleyzi to the tranquil Wenshu Monastery. After a day of encountering pandas and savoring local flavors, the hotel welcomes guests back with an atmosphere of relaxed sophistication. The rooms are designed as serene retreats, effectively balancing the city's dynamic pulse with a promise of restful repose.

Ji Hotel Shanghai Lujiazui

The Ji Hotel in Shanghai's Lujiazui district places guests at the epicenter of the city's dazzling modernity, with the soaring skyscrapers of Pudong as its backdrop. This hotel champions a philosophy of "smart" and efficient comfort, offering a streamlined, contemporary base for exploring the metropolis. Its great advantage lies in the breathtaking panoramas it offers; many rooms frame the iconic Huangpu River and the historic Bund waterfront, presenting a 24-hour live portrait of Shanghai's past and future. It serves as a perfect vantage point to reflect on the journey's contrasts between ancient tradition and hyper-modernity.

If you need help with hotel booking in other big cities of China at different styles and luxury levels (International-bra）

FAQs

1. What level of physical activity is involved?

Moderate activity includes walking on uneven surfaces at sacred mountains and standing during temple visits. Please inform us of any mobility concerns.

2. Are there vegetarian meal options available?

Yes. We can accommodate vegetarian/vegan diets. Please inform us during booking.

3. What should I wear for temple visits?

Modest clothing that covers shoulders and knees. Comfortable walking shoes are essential.

4. Is prior meditation or tai chi experience required?

No. All sessions are beginner-friendly and optional.

5. How does this tour differ from standard China tours?

This journey emphasizes spiritual sites and cultural practices over typical tourist attractions, with more time in sacred mountains and fewer crowded spots.

6. What's the best season for this journey?

Spring (May) and autumn (September) offer ideal weather conditions at all destinations.

Testimonials

What an unforgettable and deeply moving journey!

We recently returned from the 13-day "Zen & the Tao" tour, and it was far more than a vacation—it was a true pilgrimage for the mind and soul. We were initially drawn to the unique focus on Buddhist and Daoist philosophy, but the reality exceeded all our expectations. From the very beginning, the planning team was incredibly knowledgeable, helping us understand the depth of each site. They crafted an itinerary that was both profound and perfectly paced.

Every detail was thoughtfully arranged. We stayed in beautiful accommodations that enhanced the experience, from the serene mountain resort at the foot of Qingcheng Mountain to the comfortable hotels in the city centers. The food was a highlight in itself – a fantastic mix of iconic dishes like Beijing duck and exquisite vegetarian banquets that aligned perfectly with the spiritual theme. Our guide, David, was exceptional. His English was flawless, and his knowledge wasn't just academic; he had a genuine passion for the philosophies we were exploring. He could effortlessly explain the Yin-Yang principles in the Forbidden City, the significance of a Buddhist mural, and the subtleties of Daoist tea ceremony, making ancient wisdom feel alive and accessible.

- Michael

We felt completely safe and cared for throughout the entire trip.

The company's professionalism truly shone when we faced an unexpected train schedule change in Shanxi. Without any stress on our part, they seamlessly rearranged our transportation and adjusted the day's schedule, ensuring we didn't miss a single highlight. It was this behind-the-scenes efficiency that allowed us to fully immerse ourselves in the experience, whether we were practicing Tai Chi at dawn, standing in awe before the Leshan Giant Buddha, or reflecting on our journey during the final tea ceremony in Shanghai. This wasn't just a tour; it was a transformative experience crafted by a team that genuinely cares about providing a meaningful, worry-free, and deeply cultural adventure. We cannot recommend this journey highly enough to anyone seeking to understand the heart and soul of China.

-Sarah Richardson