Overview
Designed for private travelers.
A 25-day/24-night tour traverses nine cities from Beijing to Shanghai by rail and flight, featuring ancient capital legacy, Bashu culture, Wuling peaks, Li River scenery, Lingnan flair and Shanghai modernity, with World Heritage visits, folk experiences and local cuisine.
Route
Interests
Highlights
Comprehensive panoramic coverage across all regions, exploring diverse aspects of China in one visit.
Explore in one visit the ancient capitals of North China, the cultural heritage of the Qin-Han-Tang dynasties in Northwest China, the hidden gems of mountain cities in Sichuan-Chongqing region, the karst peak forests of Western Hunan, the scenic landscapes along the Li River in Northern Guangxi, the coastal beauty of Lingnan in South China, and the vibrant metropolis of Jiangnan in East China. This comprehensive tour covers stunning natural scenery, historic cities, urban landscapes, and coastal views – perfect for travelers planning extended vacations or multiple trips, saving them the hassle of repeated journeys.
A massive collection of world-class heritage sites – definitely worth visiting!
It encompasses world-class cultural and natural heritage sites such as the Terracotta Army (one of the Eight Wonders of the World), the Ming Dynasty Mutianyu Great Wall, the Dazu Rock Carvings, Wulingyuan National Park, the Lijiang River landscape, the ancient Shu civilization at Sanxingdui, the Temple of Heaven, and the Forbidden City, offering a profound exploration of China's millennia-old historical legacy.
An immersive experience that highlights the local culture, avoiding a superficial or cursory approach.
Comprehensive experience of diverse cultural features: making dumplings in hutongs, Sichuan opera face-changing performances, live performances of Xi 'an's "Song of Everlasting Sorrow," boat tours and bamboo raft rides on the Li River, intangible cultural heritage crafts in Yangshuo, autonomous taxis in Shenzhen, and strolls through Shanghai's iconic wutong-style houses; each segment is interspersed with unique DIY activities and folk interactions, allowing visitors to closely experience local life.
Signature local delicacies from all over the country are tasted in turn
Experience a one-stop tasting of representative flavors from eight major cuisines: Beijing Duck, Tang Dynasty Imperial Feast, authentic Sichuan cuisine, Chongqing Old Hot Pot, Zhangjiajie Three-Pot Cuisine, Cantonese Morning Tea/Shunde cuisine, and local Jiangnan dishes. Each city offers its own exclusive signature banquet, taking your taste buds across China.
Both historical and contemporary views are presented in parallel, creating a rich sense of layered scenery.
On one hand, visitors delve deeply into millennia-old historical sites such as imperial palaces, ancient city walls, traditional villages, grottoes, and archaeological ruins; on the other, they explore modern urban landmarks like Sanlitun, the Bird's Nest, Hongyadong, Canton Tower, Lujiazui, Shenzhen's coastal area, and Shanghai's Bund, experiencing the dual charm of these cities through a blend of past and present.
Comfortable transportation + ample visiting time for a perfect experience
Inter-city travel is facilitated by high-speed rail for short distances and flights for longer routes, ensuring efficient and hassle-free journeys. Each major scenic area is allocated a full day for comprehensive exploration—Tianmen Mountain, Wulingyuan, Dazu Rock Carvings, and Yangshuo along the Li River all offer full-day in-depth visits without time constraints. Dedicated airport pickup and drop-off services are provided to ensure a stress-free travel experience throughout.
Day-by-day outline
Day 1 Beijing
Route: Arrive in Beijing, airport pick-up, Go to the hotel to rest
Schedule Introduction:According to the arrival time of the flight, we offer a dedicated airport pick-up service. You can settle into the hotel to rest and adjust your travel state, conserve energy for the subsequent visit to the imperial city, and start your journey to the ancient capital of China.
Day 2 Beijing|Royal Gardens + The clash of ancient and modern trends
Route: Summer Palace,The Temple of Heaven, Sanlitun
Schedule Introduction:In the morning, we toured the Summer Palace—a premier imperial landscape garden where the Long Corridor, Fragrance Pavilion, and Kunming Lake exemplify classical garden aesthetics.
Next, we visited the Temple of Heaven, the sacred site for imperial sacrifices to heaven and prayers for bountiful harvests, where the Blue-Tiled Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests showcases exquisite symmetrical architecture.
In the evening, we headed to Sanlitun, Beijing's trendy embassy district where Eastern and Western styles blend harmoniously, offering a glimpse into the city's vibrant modern life.
Day 3 Beijing|The majestic Great Wall + an Olympic landmark
Route: Mutianyu Great Wall, Bird’s Nest & Water Cube
Schedule Introduction:At the Mutianyu section of the Ming Great Wall, the structure remains remarkably well-preserved with expansive vistas; tiered watchtowers stretch continuously along the wall. Visitors can easily ascend via cable cars or slides to enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding mountains resembling a giant dragon.
In the evening, one may visit the Olympic Park to photograph this iconic landmark of the 2008 dual Olympics—the Bird's Nest featuring interlocking steel frameworks and the Water Cube with its bubble membrane architecture, both showcasing exceptional modern design.
Day 4 Beijing|Folk Culture Experience in the Core Alleys of the Imperial City
Route: Tiananmen Square, Forbidden City, XixingLong Street,Making dumplings in the old Beijing hutongs(Replaceable selection)
Schedule Introduction:Start your morning by visiting Tiananmen Square to admire the city's grand central axis; explore the Forbidden City with its Ming-era palace architecture featuring red walls and yellow tiles, discovering imperial treasures and understanding millennia-old royal rituals;stroll through Xixinglong Old Street, immerse yourself in authentic hutongs and courtyards, learn to make dumplings firsthand, and experience authentic Beijing's daily life。
For dinner, experience the Beijing specialty - Beijing Roast Duck, and then take the night high-speed train to Xi 'an.
【Special Menu】Peking Duck dinner(Interspersed with one day's schedule)
【Special experience replacement】Experience of making dumplings in the hutongs/Tea Culture and Incense Art/Beijing-style Handicrafts (Cloisonne/Rabbit God Clay Sculpture);Deeply experience the traditional culture of Beijing.
【Beijing to Xi’an】G369 19:00-23:11 (About 4h11m)// G665 17:08-22:47 (About5h39m)
Day 5 Xi’an|A day of real historical scenes of the Qin and Tang Dynasties
Route: Terracotta Army of Emperor Qinshihuang,Huaqing Palace,Song of Everlasting Regret (Evening)
Schedule Introduction:In the morning, we visited the Terracotta Army of Emperor Qinshihuang's Mausoleum, one of the eight wonders of the world. The thousand-person military formation recreated the might of the Qin army, and the craftsmanship of the Pre-Qin period was spectacularly presented.
Visit Huaqing Palace, the Tang Imperial hot spring Palace, which preserves historical relics such as the bathing of imperial concubines and the Xi 'an Incident.
At night, watch the live-action dance drama "Song of Everlasting Regret" at Lishan. With mountains and waters as the backdrop and lake water as the stage, the lighting special effects interpret the love epic of Emperor Xuanzong of Tang and Yang Guifei in the prosperous Tang Dynasty.
Day 6 Xi’an|The ancient city walls and the culture of the prosperous Tang Dynasty
Route: Muslim Quarter,Yongning Gate,Xi 'an City Wall,Bell Tower,Drum Tower,Big Wild Goose Pagoda
Schedule Introduction:Starting from Yongning Gate, ride 13.7 kilometers to complete the ancient city wall. Visit the Bell and Drum Towers in the city center, walk into the Muslim quarter to taste local snacks and experience the local hustle and bustle. Head to the Great Wild Goose Pagoda, which is a landmark ancient pagoda for storing ancient Buddhist scriptures.
Enjoy the distinctive Tang Dynasty imperial banquet during the meal, recreating the aesthetic of imperial cuisine that has lasted for a thousand years.
【Special Menu】Tang-style banquet, experience the culture of the prosperous Tang Dynasty(Interspersed with one day's schedule)
【Special experience】Performance of the Song of Everlasting Regret
Day 7 Chengdu|Leisurely life in the bustling markets of Sichuan and Chongqing
【Xi’an to Chengdu】D191508:50-12:11(3h21m)
Route: Experience the covered bowl tea at the old tea house, Sichuan Opera face-changing, and stroll along Yulin Road
Schedule Introduction:Slow down and feel the relaxed atmosphere of life in Chengdu. Enjoy traditional covered bowl tea in an old teahouse and watch the wonderful Sichuan Opera face-changing performance. Strolling along Yulin Road, the streets are lined with local small shops, creating a laid-back and down-to-earth atmosphere.
Day 8 Chengdu|The Giant Panda and the Ancient Shu Civilization
Route: Giant Panda Base, Sanxingdui Museum, Jinli Ancient Street
Schedule Introduction:Head to the panda base in the early morning and encounter the world's largest giant panda population. Watch the national treasure munching on bamboo shoots and playing in the bamboo forest, which is so cute and soothing.
Entering the Sanxingdui Museum, the unearthed bronze divine tree and the wide-eyed mask lift the veil of the mysterious ancient Shu civilization. Strolling along Jinli Ancient Street at night, red lanterns are scattered in the streets and alleys of The Three Kingdoms culture, gathering Sichuan snacks and intangible cultural heritage handicrafts.
For dinner, enjoy authentic Sichuan cuisine that is spicy, fresh and fragrant, and unlock the unique Sichuan flavors of the eight major cuisines.
【Special Menu】The eight major cuisines - Sichuan cuisine
【Special experience】Sichuan Opera face-changing performance
Day 9 Chongqing|Three-dimensional mountain city + magical night view
【Chengdu to Chongqing】G2883 08:37-09:53(1h41m)
Route: Liziba Metro, Kuixing Building, Hongya Cave, Qiansimen Bridge night view
Schedule Introduction:Visiting the popular Li Ziba Light Rail, the train passing through buildings is a unique sight in Chongqing. Climbing up the Kui Xing Tower, one can overlook the layers upon layers of mountain town residences. Hongya Cave is built along the mountain. The stilt houses are brightly lit at night, just like a fairyland. Stroll along the Qiansimen Bridge to enjoy the river view, or take a night cruise to feast your eyes on the night scenery of the entire city along the two rivers.
Day 10 Chongqing|The Dazu Rock Carvings, a World Cultural Heritage
Schedule: Dazu Rock Carvings Museum, Baoding Mountain, Shengshou Temple, Old Street, Beishan, Longshui Lake
Schedule Introduction:We spent the whole day at the Dazu Rock Carvings, a World Cultural Heritage Site, a group of Tang and Song Dynasty cliff carvings. The Baoding Mountain Esoteric Stone carvings have a complete narrative, while the Beishan Stone Carvings have exquisite carvings. The statues of Buddhism, Taoism and Confucianism coexist, and the ancient temples in the mountains and the old streets by the lake complement each other, accumulating the thousand-year-old stone carving art and religious humanistic heritage.
Day 11 Chongqing|The humanistic charm and distinctive cuisine of Nanshan
Route: Laojun Cave, Huangjueya Old Street, Huangge Ancient Road, Xiahaoli
Schedule Introduction:Visit the Laojun Cave of the Taoist Temple on the top of the mountain. From the summit, you can overlook the entire city. Strolling along the artistic old street of Huangjueping, the graffiti streets and alleys are filled with the artistic atmosphere of Sichuan and Chongqing. Hiking along the century-old Huangge Ancient Path, the bluestone-paved roads connect the memories of the old mountain town. Xiahao Li retains the original stilt houses and the old town.
For dinner, we had a spicy and authentic Chongqing hot pot, and then took a vehicle to Zhangjiajie.
【Chongqing to Zhangjiajie】G244119:17-21:57(2h40m)
【Special Menu】Chongqing hot pot
【Optional Activity】 For the Hongya Cave landscape, you can choose the Chongqing Two Rivers Night Cruise to enjoy the magical night view
Day 12 Zhangjiajie|The same style of peak forest scenery as in Avatar
Route: Bailong Elevator, Yuanjiajie (Avatar Mountains), Tianzi Mountain
Schedule Introduction: Take the world's highest outdoor elevator, the Bailong Sky Ladder, straight up to the clouds and reach Yuanjiajie. Take a photo at the prototype of the suspended mountain in "Avatar", the Qiankun Pillar, where strange peaks stand in rows and clouds and mist swirl around. Wandering through Tianzi Mountain, one can enjoy the continuous peaks and canyons. From the viewing platform, one can take in the magnificent landscape of Wulingyuan and experience the karst peak forest fairyland in an immersive way.
Day 13 Zhangjiajie|Tianmen Mountain Tianmen Secret Realm
Route: Tianmen Mountain Scenic Area(Line A:):Yunmeng Xianding, Mountain-Crossing Escalator, Tianmen Cave, 999 Steps to the Sky Ladder
Schedule Introduction:Spend the whole day visiting Tianmen Mountain. Reach the summit of Yunmengxian Peak and enjoy a panoramic view of the surrounding mountains. Take the mountain escalator directly to Tianmen Cave, a huge natural cave that runs through the cliff. Climb 999 stone steps to get a close-up view of this stunning natural cave wonder.
Day 14 Zhangjiajie|Hiking in the forest park valley
Route: Zhangjiajie National Park: South Gate → Huangshizhai → Jinbianxi → Shuirao Simen
Schedule Introduction:Take a deep tour of the core forest park of Wulingyuan. The Huangshizhai Viewing Platform offers a 360° panoramic view of the peak forest. Hiking along the Jinbian Stream and strolling along it, the water is clear and surrounded by green trees. Shui Rao Si Men is a serene valley where mountains and water converge.
For dinner, enjoy the local specialty of Zhangjiajie, SAN Xia Guo, and experience the flavor of Xiangxi.
【Special Menu】Zhangjiajie's characteristic delicacy - Sanxia Guo
Day 15 Guilin|Urban landscape landmark
【Zhangjiajie to Guilin】D396707:12-14:13(7h01m)
Route: Elephant Trunk Hill, Guihai Qinglan, Zhengyang Pedestrian Street, Sun & Moon Twin Towers
Schedule Introduction:Upon arriving in Guilin, first visit the city's landmark, Elephant Trunk Hill. The mountain by the Li River resembles a drinking elephant and is a symbol of Guilin's landscape. Stroll along the serene lakeside park in Guihai Qinglan. Explore Zhengyang Pedestrian Street to discover the snacks of northern Guangxi.
When it gets dark, watch the lights of the Sun and Moon Twin Towers reflected on the lake surface and enjoy the beautiful scene of the lights of the Sun and Moon Twin Towers reflected on the lake.
Day 16 Guilin|The Li River and the rural scenery of Yangshuo
Route: 3/4-star Li River Cruise, Yulong River bamboo raft, Ten-Mile Gallery, Yangshuo West Street
Schedule Introduction:Take a boat tour along the Li River, with continuous green mountains on both banks. This is the location where the back of the 20-yuan RMB note was taken. Take a bamboo raft to drift along the Yulong River and pass through the peaceful countryside. Walking through the ten-mile Gallery, one is greeted by continuous mountain, water and rural scenery.
When strolling along West Street in Yangshuo at night, you can find all kinds of shops and small leisure stores along the street.
Day 17 Guilin|Landscape viewing and intangible cultural heritage folk customs
Schedule: Xianggong Mountain → Yinzi Rock → Ruyi Peak → Dongli Ancient Village · Intangible Cultural Heritage Center
Schedule Introduction:Climb Xianggong Mountain in the early morning and overlook the meandering bend of the Li River from the top. It is an excellent spot for sunrise and landscape photography. Visit the Silver Cave, where the stalactites are crystal clear and the lights are fantastical. Reaching the summit of Ruyi Peak Cableway, one can overlook the entire Yangshuo Peak Forest. Entering Dongli Ancient Village, traditional northern Guangxi residences are well-preserved. You can make beer fish by yourself, experience intangible cultural heritage handicrafts such as rubbing, tie-dyeing and pottery, and deeply feel the local culture of northern Guangxi.
【Special experience】cooking class (Beer Fish/Local cuisine)
【Optional Activity】Intangible cultural heritage handicrafts from Dongli Ancient Village(Graphite Rubbing, Tie-dyeing, Pottery)
Day 18 Guangzhou|The modern new city of Guangzhou and the old city of Xiguan
【Guilin to Guangzhou】G290709:24-11:52(2h28m)
Route: Guangdong Provincial Museum, Haixinsha Asian Games Park, Canton Tower, Pa Ti Beer Creative Art Zone
Schedule Introduction:In the morning, visit the Provincial Museum to explore its collection of Lingnan cultural artifacts that reveal Guangdong's millennia-long development; stroll along Haixinsha Beach to overlook the skyscrapers of Zhujiang New Town; take photos at Canton Tower's iconic "Little Waist" as a city landmark from above; and in the evening, explore the Pati Cultural and Creative District—a riverside industrial-style park perfect for leisurely sightseeing and watching the Pearl River sunset.
For dinner, enjoy classic Cantonese cuisine or Shunde delicacies, and savor the fresh and light flavors of the eight major Cantonese cuisines.
Day 19 Guangzhou|Explore the cultural integration of Guangzhou
Schedule:Chen Clan Academy, Liwan Lake Park, Xiguan Mansions, Yongqingfang, Shangxiajiu, Beijing Road (Dafosi Temple), Shamian Island
Schedule Introduction:Visit the Chen Family Ancestral Hall, a traditional example of Lingnan ancient architecture featuring exquisite brick and stone carvings. Explore Liwan Lake and Yongqingfang, and admire the historic residential buildings in Xiguan. Tour the renowned commercial streets of Shangxiajiu and Beijing Road. Along Shamen Island, you'll find numerous European-style old buildings along the riverbank.
【Special Menu】The Eight major cuisines - Cantonese cuisine/Local Cuisines - Shunde Cuisine
Day 20 Shenzhen|Urban trend and artistic wandering
【Guangzhou to Shenzhen】C702509:06-10:22(1h16m)
Route: MixC, OCT Creative Park, Shenzhen Bay Park, Sea World, Happy Bay, Shekou Old Street
Schedule Introduction:Unlock the diverse urban landscape of Shenzhen throughout the day and experience the modern urban commercial atmosphere at MixC. The old factory buildings of OCT have been transformed into a cultural and creative park, with a concentration of art graffiti, exhibition halls and small shops.
The Shenzhen Bay Coastal Promenade offers a direct view of the Hong Kong skyline, allowing you to watch migratory birds and the cross-sea bridge. The Minghua Ferry landmark of the Maritime World and the Ferris wheel of Happy Bay dot the coastline. Shekou Old Street gathers authentic snacks from the coastal area, allowing you to experience the hustle and bustle of Shenzhen's traditional market life.
During the tour, you can experience a section of the Shenzhen driverless taxi technology project and feel the vigorous vitality of Shenzhen's technology
Day 21 Shenzhen|One-day tour along the coast of the ancient coastal city
Route: Shenzhen coastal day tour – Jiaochangwei, Dapeng Ancient City, Yangmeikeng Reef Coast, Luzui Mountain Villa
Schedule Introduction:Enjoy authentic Cantonese morning tea for breakfast and unlock the Lingnan morning tea culture of a cup and two pieces.
After the meal, drive along the eastern coast of Shenzhen, visit the ancient city of Dapeng, where the ancient coastal defense city is well-preserved. The beach of Jiaochangwei Coastal Homestay is fresh and soothing. The sea water at Yangmei Keng Reef Coast is crystal clear, and the mountain, sea and cliff scenery at Luzui Villa is breathtakingly beautiful.
【Special experience】Experience of Driverless Taxis
【Special Menu】Guangdong Morning Tea (a distinctive breakfast culture)
Day 22 Shanghai|Water town Ancient Town Enters the City.
【Shenzhen ✈ Shanghai】MU533610:30-12:35(2h05m)
Route: Zhujiajiao Ancient Town, Shanghai
Schedule Introduction:After arriving in Shanghai, head to Zhujiajiao, a quiet suburban water town. In the ancient town, a small river flows through, and stone Bridges and old-fashioned wooden houses can be seen everywhere. You can taste the local river delicacies of the water town, avoid the crowds and take a leisurely stroll, and then return to the city to rest.
Day 23 Shanghai|A panoramic view of the ancient and modern landmarks of the Magic City
Route: Lujiazui (Oriental Pearl、Shanghai Tower), North Bund, Yu Garden, Town God's Temple, World Architecture
Schedule Introduction:During the day, head to Lujiazui, the financial heart of Shanghai, and ascend the Shanghai Tower for a panoramic view of the city; the Oriental Pearl Tower stands as a testament to Shanghai's development. Across the river from the North Bund lies Lujiazui, perfect for capturing stunning photos that showcase both banks together.
In the evening, visit the City God Temple in Yu Garden. The classical garden of Jiangnan is paired with a century-old snack market. Wandering through the Bund's architectural complex of various countries, century-old European-style buildings are lined up along the Huangpu River. The night view is ablaze with lights, fully showcasing the century-old charm of Shanghai.
Day 24 Shanghai|The Shanghai-style charm of Wutong Road
Route: Shanxi North Road, Xinhua Roadt, No. 8 Hengshan Roadt, Yongjia Road
Schedule Introduction:A deep exploration of the Wutong District in Hengfu, Shanghai, reveals that Xinhua Road, Yongjia Road and Hengshan Road are dotted with old Western-style houses and Wutong trees. Artistic small shops and historical residences are scattered here and there, creating a strong artistic atmosphere of the Shanghai style.
During the meal, savor the authentic Shanghai local cuisine with thick and rich sauces, and experience the unique culinary characteristics of Jiangnan Shanghai.
【Special Menu】Shanghai Local Cuisine
Day 25 Shanghai ✈ Destination|The return journey comes to an end
Route:After the rest on the day, Pick up the passenger according to the flight schedule.This wonderful trip to China comes to an end!
Schedule Introduction:Upon completion of the day's arrangements, we will promptly escort you to Shanghai Airport according to your flight schedule. This concludes your 25-day China journey.
What’s Included
- Private itinerary planning
- Private guiding options
- Local support during travel
What’s Excluded
- International flights
- Visa fees where applicable
- Personal expenses
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