Discover the wonders of China with our 12 Days China Tour booking. This exciting journey covers major cities(Beijing, Xi’an, Yangtze Cruise, ) and breathtaking landscapes.
Start your Excursion in Beijing, where you will visit iconic sites like the Great Wall and the Forbidden City. These landmarks showcase China’s rich history and culture. Then, travel to Xi’an to explore the Terracotta Warriors, an extraordinary archaeological site that draws visitors from around the world.
After that, make your way to Chongqing. Here, you will embark on the Yangtze Cruise, a highlight of your trip. Enjoy stunning views as you sail through the majestic Three Gorges and the serene Shennv Stream. This cruise offers a unique perspective on China’s natural beauty. During your cruise, you will also have the chance to visit the impressive Three Gorges Dam. This engineering feat is a must-see and adds depth to your journey.
Finally, conclude your tour in Shanghai, a city that blends tradition with modernity. Explore famous attractions such as The Bund and Yu Garden, experiencing the vibrant atmosphere of this bustling metropolis.
Our 12 Days China Tour booking ensures a seamless travel experience with comfortable accommodations and knowledgeable guides. Each destination is carefully selected to provide a memorable adventure. Join us for this incredible journey through China’s rich heritage and stunning landscapes! Whether you’re a history lover or nature enthusiast, this China tour is sure to give you the best experience ever.
Included
- Round way private transfer in each destination
- Accommodation for Yangtze River Cruise
- Professional licensed English-speaking guide
- Entrance tickets for all historical & cultural attractions as listed in the itinerary
- High-Speed Rail based on 2nd class soft seats from Beijing to Xi'an, Xi'an to Chongqing
- Domestic flights based on E-class from Yichang to Shanghai
- Hotel accommodations in each destionation based on twin-sharing basis
- Meals as specified in the itinerary ( B=Breakfast, L=Lunch, D=Dinner)
- Bottled drinking water and wet tissue
Excluded
- China visas and international flights entry & exit of China
- Hotel single room supplement in Beijing, Xi'an, Chongqing and Shanghai
- Tipping for guide and driver
- Other expenses if not listed in the itinerary
Highlights of the Tour
- Beijing: Tian'anmen Square, The Forbidden City, Great Wall of China, Ming Tombs, Temple of Heaven, Summar Palace, Hutong Rickshaw Ride.
- Xi'an: Terracotta Warriors and Horses, Ancient City Wall, Big Wild Goose Pagoda, Tang Everbright City, Muslim Street.
- Quick Layover in Chongqing to visit the Giant Panda House before embarking on the Yangzte cruise.
- Yangtze River Cruise: Qutang Gorge, Wu Gorge, and Xiling Gorge, Shennv Stream (Goddess Stream), Cultural Activities Onboard, Three Gorges Dam.
- Shanghai: Yu Garden, The Bund, Shanghai Museum, World Financial Tower, Jade Buddha Temple, TianZiFang Cultural Area.
Itinerary
Collapse All
- Upon your arrival in Beijing, you will be greeted by our local guide at the airport or railway station. You will then be escorted to your hotel in downtown Beijing using a private, comfortable, and non-smoking vehicle. After settling in, the rest of the day is yours to explore this vibrant and dynamic megacity at your leisure.
- Suggestions for Exploration: If you're interested in discovering attractions near your hotel, feel free to ask our knowledgeable tour guide for recommendations and practical tips.
- Your second day in Beijing promises an immersive journey through the city's imperial history and cultural landmarks.
- After breakfast, your guide and driver will escort you to Tian'anmen Square, the heart of modern China. Here, you'll learn about its significance in recent history and admire the surrounding grand buildings.
- Next, you'll explore the magnificent Forbidden City, a UNESCO World Heritage site. As you walk through its gates and halls, you'll discover the intricate architecture and fascinating stories of the 24 emperors who once called this palace home. The sheer scale of the complex, with its numerous buildings and rooms, is truly awe-inspiring.
- Following this, you'll experience a more intimate side of Beijing with a rickshaw ride through the traditional hutong alleyways. These narrow streets offer a glimpse into local life and architecture. You'll enjoy a authentic lunch in this charming setting.
- In the afternoon, you'll visit the Temple of Heaven, an architectural masterpiece where emperors once performed important ceremonies. The site's unique design and spiritual significance make it a must-see attraction.
- After returning to your hotel for a short rest, you'll cap off the day with a special dinner featuring Beijing's renowned Peking duck, a culinary delight not to be missed.
- For optional evening activities in Beijing, you have two captivating choices:
- Kung Fu Show at the Red Theater: Experience an exhilarating Kung Fu performance at the Red Theater (Hong Ju Chang), which typically begins at 19:30. This show showcases the artistry and discipline of traditional Chinese martial arts, providing a thrilling insight into this ancient practice.
- Beijing Opera at Liyuan Theater: Alternatively, you can enjoy a classic Beijing Opera performance at Liyuan Theater from 19:30 to 20:30. This venue is renowned for its authentic representation of Peking Opera, featuring intricate costumes, unique vocal techniques, and stunning performances that reflect rich cultural narratives. The theater also offers the opportunity to see performers prepare in the makeup room before the show, enhancing your understanding of this traditional art form.
- Visit Tian'anmen Square
- Explore magnificent Forbidden City
- Visit Temple of Heaven
- Savor renowned Peking duck
- Attend optional Kung Fu Show
- Enjoy classic Beijing Opera
- Stay in Beijing, B, L, D
- Begin our day after breakfast with a scenic 70km drive to the iconic Mutianyu section of the Great Wall. This well-preserved segment offers a less crowded experience while showcasing the wall's original Ming Dynasty architecture. Mutianyu is renowned for its strategic importance, connecting Gubeikou and Juyongguan, and boasts the title of "longest great wall in China".
- You'll ascend via cable car, then explore the most captivating parts of Mutianyu on foot. As you climb the watchtowers, you'll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the wall snaking across mountain ridges, perfect for memorable photos. After your exploration, you'll descend by cable car. For the more adventurous, a 40-minute hike up or down is an option.
- Next, you'll visit the Sacred Path of Ming Tombs, a 7km passage leading to the final resting places of 13 Ming Dynasty Emperors. This symbolic pathway was believed to connect Heaven and Earth for the Son of Heaven. You'll walk through China's largest archway and the Great Palace Gate, passing impressive stone statues of mythical animals and officials.
- On the return journey to Beijing, you'll stop for a photo opportunity at the Olympic Village, where you can admire the exterior of the famous Bird's Nest stadium and Water Cube aquatics center.
- Ride cable car to Mutianyu Great Wall
- Explore the Ming Tombs
- Visit Beijing Olympic Village
- View iconic Bird's Nest stadium
- Observe Water Cube
- Savor authentic Peking Roasted Duck dinner
- Stay in Beijing, B, L, D
- After breakfast, you'll check out of your Beijing hotel and meet your guide and driver in the lobby. They'll escort you to the magnificent Summer Palace, the largest and best-preserved imperial garden in China. This UNESCO World Heritage site features stunning landscapes centered around Kunming Lake and Longevity Hill. You'll explore elegant pavilions, bridges, and the famous 728-meter Long Corridor adorned with intricate paintings. The Summer Palace offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and imperial architecture, showcasing the grandeur of China's royal past.
- Following your visit, you'll be driven to Beijing West Railway Station to board a high-speed train to Xi'an. During the approximately 5-hour journey, you'll have the opportunity to relax and enjoy views of the diverse Chinese landscape as you cover over 1,000 kilometers.
- Upon arrival in Xi'an, your local guide and driver will greet you at the station. They'll provide a comfortable private transfer to your hotel, where you'll check in and have the evening at leisure to rest after your travels.
- Stroll through Summer Palace
- Cruise on Kunming Lake
- Stay in Xi'an, B, L, D
- Private tour in the morning for about 40km drive to the renowned Terracotta Warriors and Horses, a UNESCO World Heritage Site discovered in 1974. This archaeological marvel showcases over 8,000 life-sized terracotta soldiers, 130 chariots, and 670 horses, all part of Emperor Qin Shi Huang's mausoleum. You'll spend three hours exploring the three pits, learning about the Qin Dynasty (221-207 BC) history and culture as this is the most influential period in Chinese history.
- After this immersive experience, you'll return to Xi'an's downtown to visit the Ancient City Wall. As China's largest and best-preserved ancient city fortification, it stretches 13.75km in length, stands 12m high, and measures 15-18m wide. From atop the wall, you'll enjoy panoramic views of Xi'an.
- Next, you'll explore the vibrant Muslim Quarter, where you can sample local delicacies and gain insights into the area's unique Muslim culture.
- Return back to the hotel for a short break. In the evening we will come to the Tang Dynasty Everbright City near the Big Wild Goose Pagoda. Here, you'll witness the illuminated nightscape and have the opportunity to dress up in traditional Chinese attire, providing a perfect end to your cultural journey through Xi'an's past and present.
- Observe life-sized Terracotta Warriors
- Explore the City Wall
- Visit Big Wild Goose Pagoda
- Don traditional Hanfu clothing
- Stroll through illuminated Grand Tang Dynasty Ever Bright City
- Stay in Xi'an, B, L
- In the morning, Our guide and driver will escort you to Xi'an North Railway Station to board a high-speed train to Chongqing. The 4.5-hour journey provides an opportunity to relax and enjoy the changing landscape.
- Upon arrival in Chongqing, you'll be greeted by your local guide and driver. Chongqing, known as the "Mountain City", is a sprawling metropolis situated at the confluence of the Yangtze and Jialing rivers. It's renowned for its spicy cuisine, particularly its hot pot, and its unique blend of modern urban development and traditional culture.
- Your city tour will include a visit to Chongqing Zoo, home to over 230 animal species. The highlight will be the Panda Room, where you can observe giant pandas in a naturalistic habitat. The zoo also houses other rare animals like the South China Tiger and golden snub-nosed monkeys.
- Next, you'll experience a thrilling cable car ride across the Yangtze River, offering panoramic views of Chongqing's impressive skyline and the surrounding mountains.
- After dinner, you'll head to the port to board your Yangtze River cruise ship. As the ship sets sail in the evening, you'll be treated to the mesmerizing sight of Chongqing's illuminated cityscape reflecting on the river waters. This marks the beginning of your journey through the Three Gorges, one of China's most scenic and historically significant waterways.
- Visit to Chongqing Zoo
- Stay onboard Yangtze Cruise, B, L, D
- Your morning on the Yangtze River cruise begins with a peaceful awakening to the gentle sunlight reflecting off the tranquil waters. You have the option to join a Tai Chi session on the sundeck, led by a master, or simply enjoy a relaxing cup of coffee to start your day.
- The cruise offers a variety of onboard activities and entertainment. You can attend an informative lecture about the Yangtze River's history and culture, participate in the Captain's Welcome Party to socialize with fellow travelers, or enjoy evening performances featuring singing, dancing, and music.
- A highlight of the day is the shore excursion to Shibaozhai Pagoda in Zhongxian County. This remarkable 12-story wooden structure, dating back to the 16th century, clings to a rocky hill rising about 200 meters above the river. As you climb the pagoda, you'll explore Buddhist temples and halls, culminating in a breathtaking panoramic view of the Yangtze from the top. Comfortable footwear is advised for the numerous stairs.
- Optional Activity: For those seeking an alternative experience, an optional excursion to Fengdu Ghost City is available for an additional fee. This unique attraction showcases buildings, structures, and statues related to Chinese concepts of the afterlife and underworld. You'll encounter intriguing stories about the netherworld, various devils, and demons from Chinese folklore. This excursion involves considerable walking, so comfortable shoes are recommended.
- Visit the Shibaozhai Pagoda
- Explore the Fengdu Ghost City
- Stay onboard Yangtze Cruise, B, L, D
- Today, your journey through the Three Gorges will be certainly the highlight of your Yangtze River cruise. As you sail through Qutang, Wu, and Xiling Gorges, you'll be treated to stunning vistas of towering cliffs and mist-shrouded peaks. The onboard guide will provide fascinating commentary about the geological and historical significance of these natural wonders.
- A memorable excursion awaits at Shennv Stream, where you'll board a smaller vessel to explore this pristine tributary. The narrow gorge offers intimate views of the surrounding landscape, including ancient hanging coffins perched high on the cliff faces. Local Tujia people will entertain you with traditional music and dance performances, adding a cultural dimension to the natural beauty.
- In the evening, join your fellow passengers for the Captain's Farewell Party, a festive celebration of your voyage featuring a special dinner.
- Optionl Activity: For those seeking an additional adventure, an optional excursion to White Emperor City is available. This historic site, situated at the entrance of Qutang Gorge, offers insights into Chinese literature and history, as well as spectacular views of the river landscape.
- Sail through majestic Qutang Wu and Xiling Gorges
- Explore narrow Shennv Stream
- Attend festive Captain's Farewell Party
- Optional visit White Emperor City
- Stay onboard Yangtze Cruise, B, L, D
- On your final morning, you'll complete check-out procedures and disembark at Maoping Port. The day's highlight is a visit to the impressive Three Gorges Dam, a marvel of modern engineering. This colossal structure, spanning 2,300 meters in length and rising 185 meters above sea level, is the world's largest hydropower station. You'll learn about its flood control capabilities and its significant impact on the Yangtze River region.
- For those seeking an extra thrill, an optional excursion allows you to experience the dam's massive ship lift, providing a unique perspective on this engineering wonder.
- Following the dam tour, a bus will transport you to Yichang Three Gorges Center Cruise Terminal, arriving between 12:30 and 13:30. From there, you'll be escorted to the airport for your flight to Shanghai. Upon landing, a local guide will greet you and provide private transportation to your downtown hotel.
- Please note: Regardless of whether you opt for the ship lift experience, you'll need to complete check-out and remove all luggage from the ship early in the morning. The standard dam tour will have you in Yichang by 12:30, while those choosing the ship lift experience will arrive around 13:30.
- Visit the Three Gorges Dam Project
- Stay in Shanghai, B, L
- After breakfast, you'll embark on a full day of exploring Shanghai's unique blend of modernity and tradition. Your first stop is the Shanghai Museum, one of the premier museums in China, renowned for its extensive collection of ancient Chinese art. The museum, designed to resemble a traditional bronze vessel, symbolizes the ancient Chinese worldview of "round sky, square earth." Inside, you'll find over 120,000 artifacts, including exquisite ceramics, bronzes, calligraphy, jades, and paintings that span thousands of years. Each gallery offers insights into different aspects of Chinese culture and history, making it a perfect introduction to the richness of China's artistic heritage.
- Next, head to Yu Garden, a quintessential example of classical Chinese garden design located in the heart of the city. This serene oasis features winding paths, elegant pavilions, and tranquil ponds filled with koi fish. The garden’s intricate layout is designed to evoke peace and harmony, showcasing traditional architecture with its jagged roofs and ornate decorations. Adjacent to Yu Garden is the bustling Yuyuan Bazaar, where you can indulge in local snacks and browse through a variety of traditional handicrafts.
- In the afternoon, visit the Shanghai World Financial Center in Pudong New District. Ascend to the 100th floor for breathtaking panoramic views of Shanghai's skyline and the Huangpu River. This vantage point allows you to appreciate the city's impressive blend of historical and modern architecture.
- Take a leisurely stroll along the Bund, Shanghai's famous waterfront promenade. Here, you'll encounter an array of architectural styles that reflect the city's colonial past alongside modern skyscrapers across the river. The Bund offers a stunning backdrop for photographs and is a perfect spot to absorb the vibrant atmosphere that defines Shanghai.
- For evening entertainment, you have two exciting options: 1,Huangpu River Night Cruise: Experience the city’s illuminated skyline from the water as you glide along the river. 2,Acrobatic Show(19:30~21:00): Attend a thrilling performance at Shanghai Circus World or another venue featuring breathtaking acrobatic feats.
- Visit Shanghai Museum
- Stroll through Yu Garden grounds
- Explore the Shanghai World Financial Center
- Stay in Shanghai, B, L
- In the morning, you'll begin your exploration at the Jade Buddha Temple, one of Shanghai's most revered Buddhist sites. Founded in 1882, this tranquil temple is home to two exquisite jade Buddha statues imported from Burma. The main highlight is the Sitting Buddha, which stands at 1.9 meters tall and is intricately carved from a single piece of white jade, adorned with semi-precious stones like agate and emerald. The serene expression on the Buddha's face captures a moment of meditation and enlightenment. The temple also features the Reclining Buddha, which symbolizes the Buddha’s death and measures about 1 meter in length. As you walk through the temple complex, you'll encounter various halls, including the Grand Hall and the Jade Buddha Chamber, each filled with ancient scriptures and beautiful art pieces that enhance the spiritual atmosphere. The temple serves as an active monastery, allowing visitors to witness local Buddhists engaging in prayer and rituals, adding to its serene charm.
- Next, you will visit Tianzifang, a vibrant arts and crafts enclave located in the former French Concession. This area is known for its narrow alleyways lined with charming boutiques, art galleries, and cafes housed in traditional Shikumen (stone gate) buildings. As you wander through TianZiFang, you'll discover unique handmade crafts, local artworks, and delightful souvenirs that reflect Shanghai's artistic spirit. The atmosphere here is lively yet relaxed, making it a perfect spot to enjoy a leisurely stroll while soaking up the local culture. You can also indulge in various culinary delights at one of the many eateries offering both traditional and modern dishes.
- Enjoy a free afternoon to unwind or further explore Shanghai at your own pace. Whether you choose to relax at a café or venture out to taste local delicacies and discover hidden gems throughout the city, this time allows you to immerse yourself in the vibrant life of Shanghai as you wish.
- Admire Jade Buddha Temple
- Wander narrow alleyways of artistic Tianzifang
- Enjoy free time to relax or explore Shanghai
- Stay in Shanghai, B, L
- Your journey concludes with a private transfer to the airport. Your guide and driver will meet you at your hotel, ensuring a smooth and comfortable departure.
- We hope you carry with you wonderful memories and stories from your adventures in China. Safe travels, and we look forward to welcoming you back in the future!
Frequently Asked & Question
The cruise is typically 3 nights/4 days downstream from Chongqing to Yichang, or 4 nights/5 days upstream from Yichang to Chongqing.
You'll experience China's most iconic attractions, including the Great Wall and Forbidden City in Beijing, Terracotta Warriors in Xi'an, a scenic Yangtze River cruise, and the modern skyline of Shanghai.
Booking is easy! You can reserve your spot by contacting me directly. I'll need some basic information like your preferred travel dates, number of travelers, and any special requests.
Certainly! If you'd like to spend more time in Beijing, Xi'an, or Shanghai, I can easily arrange additional nights and activities for you.