- 4.9/5 1433 Latest reviews
- Destination: China
- Duration: 13 Days
- Tour Type: Private & Bespoke
- Tour Style: Classic
About This Trip
If you’re looking to explore the legendary and mysterious land of Tibet alongside China’s most iconic destinations, this journey is an ideal choice. Begin in Beijing with visits to the Great Wall and the Forbidden City, then travel by high-speed train to Xi’an to admire the world-famous Terracotta Army before flying onward to Tibet. Immerse yourself in ancient Tibetan legends and spiritual traditions, then continue to Chengdu to encounter China’s beloved giant pandas, and conclude your adventure in the modern metropolis of Shanghai.
Summary
DAY
PLACE
HIGHLIGHTS
1 - 4
Beijing
Great Wall, Forbidden City, Temple of Heaven, Hutongs
5
Xi'an
Terracotta Warriors, Ancient City Wall
6 - 8
Lhasa
Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, Barkhor Street, Norbulingka Park, Drepung Monastery, Sera Monastery
9 - 11
Chengdu
Giant Panda Research Base, Chengdu City Tour
12 - 13
Shanghai
The Bund, Yu Garden, Former French Concession
Itinerary
- Day 1: Arrival in Beijing
Welcome to Beijing, the vibrant heart of China!
Upon arrival at the airport, your private guide will greet you and escort you to your hotel for check-in. Spend the rest of the day at leisure, either resting after your journey or heading out to explore the dynamic capital at your own pace.
- Beijing
- Day 2: Beijing City Highlights
Begin your Beijing tour at Tiananmen Square, the political heart and an important symbol of modern China. Directly opposite stands the magnificent Forbidden City, once the imperial palace of the Ming and Qing dynasties. It was historically restricted to emperors, royal family members, and authorized officials, but today it is open for visitors to explore its grand halls and courtyards.
In the afternoon, explore Beijing’s historic neighborhoods with a rickshaw ride through the Hutongs, where traditional local life has been carefully preserved. Continue at a relaxed pace to Houhai, also known as the “Back Sea,” and stroll along its lively bar street.
In the evening, an optional Kung Fu Show is available at an additional cost, offering an impressive introduction to the art of Chinese martial arts.
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- Beijing
- Day 3: Great Wall Experience in Beijing
The Great Wall stands as a remarkable engineering achievement created by ancient China, built along the northern frontiers to defend the empire against invasions by nomadic tribes. Today, climb one of its most scenic sections at Mutianyu, known for its breathtaking views and well-preserved structure. You may choose to take a cable car up to enjoy the sweeping landscapes from above. Afterwards, visit the Sacred Road, once believed by emperors to be the path to heaven, and stroll along it while your guide shares the fascinating stories and history behind this ceremonial route.
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- Beijing
- Day 4: Beijing to Xi'an by High-Speed Train
Continue exploring Beijing’s imperial history with a visit to the Temple of Heaven, a sacred complex where emperors of the Ming and Qing dynasties once performed ceremonies to honor heaven.
Afterwards, board a high-speed train to Xi’an. Upon arrival, your local guide will greet you at the railway station and accompany you to your hotel for check-in. Enjoy the remainder of the day at your own pace.
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- Xi’an
- Day 5: Terracotta Warriors Experience in Xi'an
One of Xi’an’s must-see attractions is the Terracotta Warriors, created by order of China’s first emperor, Qin Shi Huang, as part of his grand mausoleum. These life-sized clay soldiers, horses, and chariots were accidentally uncovered by local farmers in 1976 while digging a well.
In the afternoon, return to the city center to visit the Ancient City Wall. You may choose to explore it by bicycle or on foot, enjoying panoramic views of Xi’an’s inner city.
In the evening, an optional Tang Dynasty Show is available, where you can admire elegant music and dance performances that reflect the splendor of ancient China’s golden age.
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- Xi’an
- Day 6: Flight from Xi'an to Lhasa
Depart from Xi’an and fly to Tibet, often referred to as the “Roof of the World,” a sacred region set on a high plateau. Upon arrival in Lhasa, the capital city, your local guide will greet you and transfer you to your hotel. Spend the remainder of the day resting and allowing your body time to adjust to the high altitude.
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- Lhasa
- Day 7: Potala Palace & Jokhang Temple in Lhasa
A highlight of any visit to Tibet is the magnificent Potala Palace, once the winter residence of the Dalai Lamas. Explore its imposing fortress-like walls, grand halls, Buddha statues, Thangka paintings, and ancient Tibetan scriptures. Continue to the Jokhang Temple, regarded as the spiritual center of Tibet, where pilgrims demonstrate deep devotion through prostration. Nearby, stroll along Barkhor Street and join locals dressed in traditional attire as they walk clockwise along the sacred pilgrimage route.
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- Lhasa
- Day 8: Lhasa Sightseeing Tour
Today’s tour starts at Norbulingka Park, a complex of palaces set within beautiful gardens that once served as the summer residence of the Dalai Lamas. Continue on to Drepung Monastery, the largest monastery in Tibet, which historically accommodated up to 10,000 monks. Conclude the day at Sera Monastery, famous for its lively Buddhist debate sessions, characterized by expressive gestures, clapping, and animated exchanges.
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- Lhasa
- Day 9: Flight from Lhasa to Chengdu
Enjoy some free time at your own pace before being transferred to the airport for your flight to Chengdu. Upon arrival, your local guide will greet you and assist with hotel check-in. Spend the rest of the day resting at the hotel or heading out to explore the city independently.
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- Chengdu
- Day 10: Chengdu Highlights & Giant Pandas
Begin the day with a visit to the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, timed for the morning when the pandas are most lively. Watch these lovable animals munch on bamboo, climb trees, and play together. Continue to Wenshu Temple to admire its elegant architecture and experience Chengdu’s relaxed lifestyle. End the day with a stroll along the famous Jinli Old Street, where you can taste authentic Sichuan snacks and browse for locally crafted souvenirs.
In the evening, an optional Sichuan Opera performance is available, showcasing a captivating blend of traditional music, dance, acrobatics, and shadow puppetry.
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- Chengdu
- Day 11: Chengdu to Shanghai by Flight
Before departing for Shanghai, spend some time visiting the Chengdu Museum, a well-curated space that provides valuable insight into the city’s rich history and cultural development.
Afterwards, your guide will accompany you to the airport to board your flight to Shanghai.
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- Shanghai
- Day 12: Shanghai City Highlights
Start your exploration of Shanghai at the renowned Shanghai Museum, one of China’s leading museums, showcasing an impressive collection of ancient Chinese art. Continue to the Yu Garden, a former private garden dating back to the 16th century, followed by a visit to the lively Yuyuan Market. For a contrast in atmosphere, enjoy the unique charm of the Bund, Shanghai’s famous waterfront, where historic colonial buildings stand opposite the city’s modern skyline. Conclude the day with a relaxed stroll through the Former French Concession to admire historic architecture built during the 19th century.
If you wish to add more to your evening, an optional Acrobatics Show is available.
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- Shanghai
- Day 13: Shanghai – Departure
Your journey through China, featuring charming giant pandas and sacred Tibet, comes to an end today. Enjoy some free time until you are picked up from your hotel lobby and transferred to the airport for your onward flight home.
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