Journey Through the Dynasties
Ancient China By Private Train:
Beijing to Urumqi
Golden Eagle Silk Road Express
BEIJING – XI’AN – DUNHUANG – GOLMUD– HOTAN – KASHGAR – TURPAN – URUMQI
Embark on an unforgettable journey through the heart of ancient China, where history, culture, and natural beauty converge on an extraordinary route aboard the Golden Eagle Silk Road Express. This exclusive voyage traverses a captivating landscape of imperial capitals, desert oases, and ancient cities, transporting guests through Beijing, Xi’an, Dunhuang, Hotan, Kashgar, and beyond. Along the way, you’ll encounter the awe-inspiring Terracotta Warriors, walk the revered Great Wall, and explore the majestic Mogao Caves—a UNESCO World Heritage Site adorned with exquisite Buddhist art.
On board the Golden Eagle Silk Road Express, experience unparalleled luxury with spacious en-suite cabins, world-class cuisine, and refined service. From the floor-to-ceiling windows of the observation car, take in sweeping vistas of China’s diverse landscapes—from the verdant valleys surrounding Xi’an to the ethereal sands of the Gobi Desert. At each stop, expert guides bring each site to life, sharing tales of emperors, traders, and pilgrims who once journeyed along these fabled paths. This immersive, meticulously curated expedition promises a luxurious and enriching adventure into China’s timeless heritage.
Dates & Prices
All prices are per person and published in US Dollars ($).
We also accept payment in both Euros (€) and Pound Sterling (£). Please note we use a fixed exchange rate that is reviewed quarterly – contact us to receive a confirmed price in your preferred currency.
2026
Beijing – Urumqi
| USD ($) | Superior Class | Han Dynasty Suite | ||
| Twin or Double ($) | Single ($) | Twin ($) | Single ($) | |
| Sep 21 – Oct 2 | On Request | On Request | On Request | On Request |
| Deposit | 25% | 25% | ||
2027
Urumqi – Beijing
| USD ($) | Superior Class | Han Dynasty Suite | ||
| Twin or Double ($) | Single ($) | Twin ($) | Single ($) | |
| Mar 29 – Apr 09 | 25,000 | 41,800 | On Request | On Request |
| Sep 11 – Sep 22 | 25,000 | 41,800 | On Request | On Request |
| Deposit | 25% | 25% | ||
Your Trains
The Golden Eagle & Golden Eagle Silk Road Express are your private hotels on wheels
DAY 1 BEIJING
Upon arrival in Beijing, guests will be warmly welcomed and transferred in luxury to the prestigious Four Seasons Hotel Beijing, where a two-night stay awaits in the epitome of five-star comfort. That evening, join fellow travellers for an exclusive welcome reception and dinner, setting the tone for an exceptional journey through China.
DAY 2 BEIJING
Our adventure begins with a morning visit to the Great Wall at Badaling, one of the most iconic symbols of ancient China. Here, guests can walk along a beautifully restored section, soaking in the breathtaking views and imagining the historical figures who once guarded this marvel. In the afternoon, enjoy leisure time to explore Beijing’s lively mix of ancient traditions and modern vibrancy.
That evening, we gather for a sophisticated dining experience at a celebrated Peking Duck restaurant. This Beijing speciality, cherished for centuries, is expertly prepared and carved at your table, offering a delectable insight into Chinese culinary mastery.
DAY 3 BEIJING
Today, a comprehensive tour of Beijing’s historic heart reveals the grandeur of China’s ancient dynasties. Explore the Forbidden City, the sprawling imperial palace where emperors ruled for nearly 500 years. Stroll through Tiananmen Square, a place of great historical significance, before discovering the Summer Palace, a serene retreat adorned with beautiful gardens, temples, and lakes.
Alternatively, delve into Beijing’s modern allure with a tour of contemporary landmarks: marvel at the architectural feats of the Olympic Village and the iconic “Bird’s Nest” Stadium, glimpse the striking design of the CCTV Tower, and explore the National Museum for a modern-day perspective on China’s cultural evolution.
In the evening, we board the Golden Eagle Silk Road Express, our luxurious home for the next leg of the journey. Settle into your elegant cabin before enjoying a welcoming dinner in the dining car, as we begin our journey westward in true comfort.
DAY 4 XI’AN
In Xi’an, we explore the ancient city walls and the historic Great Mosque, one of China’s oldest and largest mosques, blending Islamic and Chinese architectural styles. Later, we visit the awe-inspiring Terracotta Army – a life-sized army of soldiers, chariots, and horses, buried with China’s First Emperor to protect him in the afterlife. This UNESCO site, often hailed as the Eighth Wonder of the World, offers a mesmerising insight into ancient Chinese beliefs and artistry.
In the evening, delight in an authentic Tang Dynasty dinner, where the ambiance is enhanced by a captivating performance of traditional music and dance, evoking the grandeur of ancient Xi’an.
DAY 5 ON BOARD THE GOLDEN EAGLE SILK ROAD EXPRESS
Today is a day of leisure as we traverse the Chinese landscape aboard the Golden Eagle Silk Road Express. Take in the panoramic scenery from the Observation Car’s floor-to-ceiling windows, the largest of any train in China, or unwind in the Bar Lounge Car with a selection of fine wines and spirits.
DAY 6 DUNHUANG
Arriving in Dunhuang, we explore the Mogao Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famed for its ancient Buddhist art. This “Cave of a Thousand Buddhas” is a spiritual oasis that has inspired pilgrims and artists for centuries, adorned with vibrant murals and statues that date back over a thousand years. Local folk artists serenade us with music, adding an atmospheric touch to our journey through this sacred complex.
After a delightful lunch, we embark on a camel trek along the Silk Road to the enchanting Crescent Lake, an oasis nestled among towering dunes. This tranquil crescent-shaped lake has endured millennia of desert winds and remains a cherished symbol of resilience and beauty.
DAY 7 GOLMUD
Our day in Golmud includes an enlightening lecture at the Hilton Qinghai-Golmud on the Silk Road’s history, highlighting its role as a bridge between East and West. Guests may choose to explore the Chaerhan Salt Lake, a surreal landscape of salt flats and mineral deposits, or enjoy a guided tour through Golmud’s vibrant city streets, before we re-board the train.
DAY 8 HOTAN
Enjoy a leisurely morning on board before an exclusive visit to Hotan’s Atlas Silk and Carpet Workshop. Here, witness master artisans create intricate silk fabrics and carpets using time-honoured techniques passed down through generations. In the evening, we step back in time with a tour of Yotkan Ancient City. Once the heart of the Buddhist Kingdom of Khotan, this ancient city flourished along the Silk Road, its temples and cultural centres revealing Hotan’s rich legacy as a nexus of trade and spirituality.
DAY 9 KASHGAR (kashi)
Today, we delve into Kashgar, a city that has long been a melting pot of cultures, religions, and architecture. Begin with a visit to the Apak Khoja Tomb, a stunningly adorned mausoleum considered the holiest Muslim site in Xinjiang. Wander through the Old Town, where narrow alleys and traditional homes provide a glimpse into local life, and explore the Gaotai folk houses, an area steeped in history and tradition.
A delightful lunch in a local restaurant introduces us to the diverse flavours of Uyghur cuisine before we return to the train to continue our journey.
DAY 10 TURPAN
Arriving in Turpan, we explore the Ancient City of Gaochang, an ancient Silk Road outpost that once served as a vital trading hub. After lunch, we marvel at the Karez irrigation system, an engineering marvel that has provided water to this arid region for centuries. We then visit Jiaohe Ruins, an ancient city carved from rock, whose unique architecture reflects the ingenuity of its former inhabitants.
In the evening, join us for a farewell dinner aboard the train as we bid farewell to the Golden Eagle Silk Road Express.
DAY 11 TURPAN & URUMQI
After a restful morning on board, we disembark in Urumqi, where we’ll enjoy an overnight stay. This city is the cosmopolitan capital of Xinjiang, home to numerous ethnic groups and brimming with the vibrant energy of East meets West.
DAY 12 URUMQI
On your final morning, our team will assist with transfers to Urumqi’s international airport for your onward journey. Leaving with memories of China’s treasures and the unforgettable sights of the Silk Road, we hope your journey has been as extraordinary as the history of the lands you have traversed.
Railway Scheduling & Itinerary Flexibility Notice
Please note that all railway schedules in China are determined solely by the Chinese railway bureau. As a result, we do not have control over the exact timings allocated to our journeys, which may occasionally include early morning or late night departures or arrivals. This can necessitate adjustments to the published itinerary, such as changes to visiting hours, routing, or the inclusion of activities. While we will always strive to deliver the planned experience, certain elements may need to be amended, substituted, or omitted based on the final timetable. Rest assured, our team is committed to providing the highest possible guest experience and will communicate any updates as soon as official schedules are confirmed.
Thank you for your understanding.
Tour Inclusions
Accommodation
- Quality pre and post-tour accommodation in Beijing and Urumqi
- 2 nights in Four Seasons Beijing
- 8 nights on board the Golden Eagle Silk Road Express
- 1 hotel night in Urumqi
Service
- Cabin attendant service including evening turndown
- Experienced Tour Management team
- Services of a UK-registered Doctor and medical facilities on board
- Arrival and departure transfers
- All gratuities – on and off the train
- Luggage porterage throughout the journey
Dining
- Freshly prepared meals on board, using the finest local ingredients
- Authentic dining experiences in local restaurants
- Inclusive alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages from Standard Bar list
- 11 Breakfasts, 11 Lunches, 11 Dinners
Excursions
- Enjoy immersive excursions throughout this exclusive voyage
- Benefit from the insight of our expert tour managers and specially selected, local tour guides
- Experience authentic encounters with local cultures and identities through our curated itineraries
Tour Highlights
Enjoy signature Golden Eagle experiences throughout this extraordinary voyage. Expertly curated excursions are accompanied by relaxing afternoons onboard your private, five-star hotel on rails.
- Explore the Mogao Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famed for its ancient Buddhist art. This “Cave of a Thousand Buddhas” is a spiritual oasis that has inspired pilgrims and artists for centuries.
- Visit the Apak Khoja Tomb, a stunningly adorned mausoleum considered the holiest Muslim site in Xinjiang.
- Visit the awe-inspiring Terracotta Army – a life-sized army of soldiers, chariots, and horses, buried with China’s First Emperor to protect him in the afterlife. This UNESCO site, often hailed as the Eighth Wonder of the World, offers a mesmerising insight into ancient Chinese beliefs and artistry.
- Learn the ancient tradition of hand-weaving exquisite silk and carpets at the Atlas Silk and Carpet Workshop.
- Delight in an authentic Tang Dynasty dinner, where the ambiance is enhanced by a captivating performance of traditional music and dance, evoking the grandeur of ancient Xi’an.
GOLDEN EAGLE SILK ROAD EXPRESS
An indulgent, modern luxury train journey tracing ancient Silk Road routes through captivating, timeless landscapes.
