North & ancient capitals

Choose your historical thread

Start with a question: how did an imperial city work, how were objects made, or how did ideas travel? Beijing and Xi’an are a strong first introduction. Luoyang and Anyang add depth when you have time rather than serving as hurried extra stops.

Take part

Pair a guided historic visit with a separate teaching experience: clay figures, calligraphy, an introductory print or an available performance workshop. The maker and activity should relate to the day’s story.

Pace & transport

For a first journey, allow several nights in each major city. High-speed rail can connect the route, but station transfers and arrival time still count as a travel day.

With children

Use short observation tasks and one principal activity. A historic site visit and a workshop can fit on the same day only when the child’s age and real driving times make that comfortable.