- 4.9/5 523 Latest reviews
- Destination: China
- Duration: 10 Days
- Tour Type: Private & Bespoke
- Tour Style: Classic
About This Trip
Discover China's must-visit places and diverse beauty on your first-time China trip. Begin in Beijing, where you'll explore the grandeur of the Forbidden City, walk along the historic Great Wall, and enjoy a cultural rickshaw ride through ancient hutongs. In Xi'an, experience the awe of the Terracotta Army, delve into local life with a hands-on cooking class, enjoy a Shadow Puppet Show, and join in a calligraphy class at Gao's Courtyard. Continue to Guilin, highlighted by a scenic Li River cruise to Yangshuo. Conclude your adventure in Shanghai, where the blend of historic charm on the Bund and modern sophistication at the Shanghai Tower offers a dynamic city experience.
Summary
DAY
PLACE
HIGHLIGHTS
1 - 4
Beijing
Forbidden City, Great Wall, Hutongs with Rickshaw Ride, Temple of Heaven
5 - 6
Xi'an
Terracotta Warriors, Local Family Visit with Cooking, Shadow Puppet Show at Gao's Courtyard
7 - 8
Guilin
Li River Cruise, Yangshuo Countryside Tour
9 - 10
Shanghai
The Bund, Yu Garden, Dim Sum Meal, Shanghai Tower
Itinerary
- Day 1: Welcome to Beijing
Greetings from Beijing, China’s Dynamic Capital!
When you arrive at Beijing Airport, your personal guide will meet you and escort you in a private vehicle to your hotel, conveniently located in the city center. Take some time to relax and unwind, allowing yourself to adjust to the local pace and soak in the vibrant atmosphere of the capital.
- Beijing
- Day 2: Historic Beijing: Forbidden City & Hutong Experience
Today’s journey will trace the historic Beijing Central Axis, recently recognized by UNESCO. Begin at Tiananmen Square, a site that has witnessed over 370 years of China’s pivotal events.
Next, explore the majestic Forbidden City, where red walls and golden roofs dominate the skyline. Admire the intricately carved eaves, adorned with symbolic animal figures and mythical guardians, each crafted with unique poses to protect the imperial palace from misfortune.
Conclude the day with a rickshaw ride through the winding hutong alleys. Pass traditional courtyard homes (siheyuan) and immerse yourself in the authentic rhythms of daily Beijing life.
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- Beijing
- Day 3: Exploring the Great Wall
After enjoying breakfast, set out on a scenic two-hour drive to the Mutianyu section of the Great Wall. Ride a cable car up to the top and soak in the stunning panorama of the wall winding across the mountains and stretching far into the horizon. Once at the summit, explore the watchtowers and walk along the stone steps, imagining the soldiers who once stood guard and kept watch over the empire.
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- Beijing
- Day 4: Journey to Xi'an via Temple of Heaven
Start your day at the magnificent Temple of Heaven, a symbol of imperial reverence, famous for its circular Hall of Prayer and expansive, tranquil park. Wander through the Circular Mound Altar and the Hall of Prayer, while watching local Beijing residents participate in their morning exercises. Then, take part in a guided Tai Chi session led by a master, practicing slow, deliberate movements to harmonize your body and mind.
Later, board a high-speed train from Beijing to Xi’an, one of China’s historic capitals rich in cultural heritage. After a 5-6 hour journey, your local guide will assist with check-in at your hotel. You can either relax for the evening or take a stroll through the city to enjoy some late-night local delicacies.
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- Xi’an
- Day 5: Xi’an Terracotta Warriors & Ancient Bronze Chariots
After enjoying breakfast, set out on a one-hour drive to explore the world-renowned Terracotta Army. Marvel at the life-size soldiers, each with distinct expressions, ranks, and stances, and take in the impressive craftsmanship of the bronze chariots. Visit the Mausoleum of Emperor Qin Shi Huang to experience the splendor and might of China’s first emperor.
Later, return to the heart of Xi’an and wander through the lively Great Tang All Day Mall. Savor local delicacies, watch captivating street performances such as young maidens in traditional attire playing the pipa, jugglers, and the famous face-changing acts, and perhaps catch a parade of elaborately decorated floats that bring ancient Chinese culture to life.
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- Xi’an
- Day 6: Xi’an Flavors and Cultural Adventures
This morning, immerse yourself in a hands-on culinary experience with a local Xi’an family. Learn to make traditional noodles, dumplings, or other authentic dishes, and then savor your creations while sharing stories and enjoying a warm, friendly atmosphere.
After lunch, visit the historic Gao Family Courtyard to witness captivating shadow puppetry and try your hand at Chinese calligraphy under the guidance of a skilled master. Stroll through the bustling Muslim Street afterward, soaking in its vibrant energy, local crafts, and delicious street food.
In the evening, transfer to the airport for your flight to Guilin, famed for its stunning landscapes often described as “the finest scenery under heaven.” Upon arrival, your guide will escort you to your hotel for check-in and relaxation.
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- Guilin
- Day 7: Scenic Li River Journey
Embark on a picturesque cruise from Guilin to Yangshuo along the Li River, where dramatic karst peaks, serene waters, and traditional villages create an unforgettable landscape. Admire centuries-old scenery that has inspired poets and painters alike, as you glide past bamboo groves, limestone cliffs, and charming riverside hamlets.
Upon arrival in Yangshuo, explore the lively West Street, dotted with shops, cafés, and local eateries. For those seeking more adventure, an optional countryside tour by bicycle or private vehicle offers a closer look at rural life, while evening visitors may enjoy the spectacular Impression of Sanjie Liu outdoor show set against the natural backdrop of the Li River.
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- Yangshuo
- Day 8: Yangshuo Countryside & Transfer to Shanghai
After breakfast, explore the magical countryside of Yangshuo, where picturesque villages, winding rivers, and lush green fields create a storybook setting. Travel by bicycle or private vehicle to witness farmers at work, traditional rural life, and the serene beauty of this iconic landscape.
Following this peaceful countryside experience, transfer to the airport for your flight to Shanghai, China’s dynamic metropolis known for its modern skyline, bustling streets, and cosmopolitan charm.
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- Shanghai
- Day 9: Shanghai Urban Highlights
Explore the highlights of Shanghai today!
Begin with a walk along the iconic Bund, where historic colonial buildings meet the modern skyline along the Huangpu River. Then, retreat to the serene Yuyuan Garden, a classical Chinese garden adorned with elegant pavilions, koi-filled ponds, and beautifully landscaped courtyards—a perfect escape from the bustling city.
Discover the fine craftsmanship of Suzhou silk at a local showroom and enjoy a delicious dim sum lunch at the famed Jade Garden Teahouse, sampling a variety of traditional delicacies.
In the afternoon, unwind at Fuxing Park, a peaceful urban oasis popular with locals, and wander through the lively street markets at Bugaoli and Sipai Road, perfect for tasting snacks and shopping for unique souvenirs. Conclude the day with a visit to the Shanghai Tower observation deck for stunning panoramic views of the cityscape.
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- Shanghai
- Day 10: Departure from Shanghai
Today marks the end of your Shanghai adventure. Take some time to pack and get ready for your journey. When prepared, your guide and driver will meet you at the hotel to provide a seamless transfer to the airport. Wishing you a pleasant journey home or to your next destination, and we hope to see you again soon!
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Accommodation Options
The hotels listed below have been carefully selected based on customer feedback. You can either choose the ones you'd like to stay in or allow our travel experts to recommend options tailored to your specific requirements.
Beijing 3 Nights
- 4.0
Top Choice
Beijing Novotel Peace Hotel
Address: 3 Jinyu lane, Wangfujing, Beijing, China
- 4.0
Top Choice
The Regent Beijing
Address: 99# Jinbao Road, Dongcheng District, Beijing, China
- 4.0
Park Plaza Beijing Wangfujing
Address: 97 Jinbao Street, Dongcheng District, Beijing, China
- 4.0
Fairmont Beijing
Address: 8 Yong An Dong Li, Jian Guo Men Wai Avenue, Chaoyang District, Beijing, China
Xi'an 2 Nights
- 4.0
Top Choice
Grand Noble Hotel Xian
Address: No. 334 East Street, Xi'an City, Shaanxi Province, China
- 4.0
Top Choice
Eastern House Boutique Hotel
Address: 300 m West of Fen Lane, South Street, Beilin District, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710002, China
- 4.0
Hilton Xi'an
Address: No.199 Dongxin Road, Xincheng District, Xi'an, Shaanxi Province, China
Guilin 1 Night
- 4.0
Top Choice
Guilin Bravo Hotel
Address: 14 South Ronghu Road, Guilin, Guangxi, China
- 5.0
Top Choice
Guilin Shangri-la Hotel
Address: 111 Huan Cheng Bei Er Lu, Guilin, Guangxi, China
- 4.0
Jolie Vue Boutique Hotel Guilin
Address: No. 8 Binjiang Road, Xiangshan District, Guilin, Guangxi, China
Yangshuo 1 Night
- 4.0
Top Choice
Yangshuo Li River Resort
Address: 1 Shuangtan Village, Yangshuo, Guilin, Guangxi, China
- 4.0
Top Choice
Green Lotus Hotel
Address: No.1 Guanlian Road, Yangshuo, Guilin, Guangxi, China
- 4.0
Yangshuo Yitian West Street Hotel
Address: Building E, Yitian West Street, Yangshou, Guilin, China
Shanghai 2 Nights
- 4.0
Top Choice
Maxx by Steigenberger on the Bund Shanghai
Address: 1 East Jinling Road, Shanghai, China
- 4.0
Top Choice
Hengshan Garden Hotel
Address: 516 Hengshan Road, Xuhui and Minhang, Shanghai, China
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