- 4.9/5 1256 Latest reviews
- Destination: China
- Duration: 16 Days
- Tour Type: Private & Bespoke
- Tour Style: Classic
About This Trip
Autumn remains the most favored time to visit China, thanks to its vibrant foliage, crisp and pleasant weather, and unique cultural festivals. Beginning in the proud capital, Beijing, and concluding in the bustling city of Shanghai, this 16-day China tour showcases a rich tapestry of sights: the legendary Great Wall and Terracotta Warriors, the serene West Lake and charming water towns, the golden landscapes of the Zhuang minority regions, and the breathtaking Yellow Mountains glowing in autumnal light.
Summary
DAY
PLACE
HIGHLIGHTS
1 - 4
Beijing
Great Wall, Forbidden City, Temple of Heaven, Hutongs
5 - 6
Xi'an
Terracotta Warriors, Ancient City Wall, Small Wild Goose Pagoda
7 - 9
Guilin
Li River Cruise, Longji Rice Terraces, Yangshuo, Guilin City Tour
10
Hangzhou
West Lake, Four Theme Museums, Paper Umbrella Painting
11 - 13
Huangshan
Huangshan Scenic Area, Ancient Village of Xidi
14
Suzhou
Lingering Garden, Old Town Tour with Rickshaw, Pingjiang Old Street, Master of Nets Garden Light Show, Tongli Water Town
15 - 16
Shanghai
The Bund, Yu Garden, Yuyuan Market, Shanghai Museum, Shanghai Tower, Former French Concession
Itinerary
- Day 1: Arrival in Beijing
Welcome to China! Upon landing in Beijing, you will be greeted by your private guide and transferred to your hotel for check-in. The rest of the day is at your leisure—relax at the hotel after your journey or head out independently to discover the lively atmosphere of the city.
- Beijing
- Day 2: Beijing Highlights – Forbidden City & Temple of Heaven
Begin your immersive journey in Beijing at Tiananmen Square, one of the largest public squares in the world and a site rich in historical significance. Adjacent to the square stands the magnificent Forbidden City, an imperial palace complex where your guide will share fascinating stories of China’s emperors and court life. In the afternoon, slow the pace at the Temple of Heaven, the ceremonial site where Ming and Qing emperors once prayed for peace and abundant harvests. Today, the surrounding park offers a glimpse of local life, with residents singing, dancing, and playing traditional instruments.
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- Beijing
- Day 3: Beijing – Mutianyu Great Wall Exploration
As the saying goes, a visit to China is incomplete without standing on the Great Wall. After breakfast, set out for the Mutianyu section, a beautifully preserved stretch known for its quieter atmosphere and stunning scenery. Take a cable car to the top and enjoy a leisurely walk along the Wall, admiring how it snakes across the mountain ridges like a mighty dragon. On the return journey to downtown Beijing, stop at the Sacred Way, a historic avenue once believed to guide emperors toward the heavens, lined with impressive stone statues.
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- Beijing
- Day 4: Beijing to Xi’an by High-Speed Train
Before departing for Xi’an, take a walking tour through Beijing’s traditional hutongs. This is a great opportunity to experience the city’s historic neighborhoods, observe daily local life, and interact with residents in old Beijing.
Later in the afternoon, board a high-speed train bound for Xi’an. Upon arrival, you will be met by your local guide at the railway station and transferred onward.
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- Xi’an
- Day 5: Xi’an Terracotta Army & Muslim Quarter Exploration
The Terracotta Army is a highlight of any visit to Xi’an. Discovered by local villagers in the 1970s while digging a well, these life-size warriors were created to guard China’s first emperor, Qin Shi Huang, in the afterlife.
Later, slow the pace with a visit to the Great Mosque, a serene sanctuary set within the lively city, known for its historic architecture and tranquil courtyards. Just outside lies the Muslim Quarter, where you can enjoy a food lover’s paradise and sample a wide variety of local flavors.
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- Xi’an
- Day 6: From Xi’an to Guilin
Continue exploring Xi’an with a visit to the Ancient City Wall, a 14th-century fortification once built to defend the old city. You may walk along the wall or cycle on top of it for a different perspective. Afterwards, take part in a Chinese calligraphy experience at the Small Wild Goose Pagoda, a peaceful Tang Dynasty site dating back over 1,300 years.
Following lunch, transfer to the airport for your flight to Guilin. Upon arrival, your local guide will greet you and assist with the transfer to your hotel for check-in.
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- Guilin
- Day 7: Guilin – Longji Rice Terraces Excursion
Enjoy a private two-hour drive to Longji, where you will explore the spectacular Longji Rice Terraces, also known as the Dragon’s Backbone. Marvel at the wisdom of ancient farmers who skillfully shaped the mountains using limited land and water, creating breathtaking stepped fields. The vast terraces, combined with the unique culture of local minority communities, offer an unforgettable experience. In the late afternoon, return to your hotel in Guilin by private transfer.
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- Guilin
- Day 8: Scenic Li River Journey to Yangshuo
Guilin is famous for its stunning karst landscapes, best admired along the Li River. After breakfast, transfer to the pier to board a leisurely Li River cruise. As you drift downstream, enjoy views of dramatic limestone peaks, crystal-clear waters, lush bamboo forests, and the occasional water buffalo along the banks.
Arrive in Yangshuo in the afternoon and take a stroll along the lively West Street before checking in at your hotel.
In the evening, travelers interested in local ethnic traditions may opt to watch the Impression of Sanjie Liu show, a spectacular open-air performance set on the Li River (available at an additional cost).
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- Yangshuo
- Day 9: Yangshuo Countryside & Fly to Hangzhou
Enjoy the crisp morning air with a relaxing countryside excursion around Yangshuo, choosing either a cycling tour or a private vehicle to explore its peaceful rural scenery. Later, return to Guilin Airport for your flight to Hangzhou. Upon arrival, your private guide will meet you and transfer you comfortably to your hotel.
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- Hangzhou
- Day 10: Hangzhou – West Lake & Cultural Museums
Begin your enjoyable morning at West Lake, the iconic landmark of Hangzhou that has inspired countless poets, artists, and garden designers with its scenic charm and historical sites.
Continue exploring the city through a visit to four themed museums dedicated to traditional knives and scissors, swords, fans, umbrellas, and local handicrafts. At the Workmanship Demonstrations Pavilion, you may even have the opportunity to try your hand at painting a traditional paper umbrella.
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- Hangzhou
- Day 11: Hangzhou – Huangshan & Xidi Ancient Village
Take a high-speed train to Huangshan, where your local guide will welcome you and transfer you to your hotel for check-in.
After a brief rest, enjoy a one-hour drive to Yi County to explore Xidi Ancient Village, part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This charming village provides a wonderful opportunity to admire traditional Chinese architecture and immerse yourself in Huizhou culture. Later, return to Huangshan and stroll along the 630-year-old Tunxi Ancient Street, where you can see classic Chinese calligraphy tools and sample delicious local snacks.
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- Hangzhou
- Day 12: Huangshan (Yellow Mountain) Exploration
Get ready for an unforgettable adventure in the Huangshan Scenic Area, also called Yellow Mountain, a destination famous for its picture-perfect landscapes. Upon reaching Yungu Station, ride the cable car up the mountain and check in at your hotel. After lunch, set out on a hike to Brush Pen Peak and Lion Peak, celebrated for their unique rock formations, twisted pine trees, and sweeping seas of clouds. As you pass through the West Sea Grand Canyon, be sure to catch the stunning sunset at Cloud-Dispelling Pavilion. Overnight stay atop the mountain.
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- Huangshan
- Day 13: Sunrise at Huangshan & Transfer to Suzhou
Wake up early to admire the spectacular sunrise over the mountain, weather permitting. Continue your morning exploration with a visit to Begin-to-Believe Peak, where the uniquely shaped pine trees create a truly remarkable sight.
Later, descend the mountain by cable car and travel to the railway station for your high-speed train journey to Suzhou. Upon arrival, your local guide will greet you and escort you by private vehicle to your hotel.
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- Suzhou
- Day 14: Suzhou Gardens, Water Town & Travel to Shanghai
Begin your morning with a relaxing stroll through the Lingering Garden, where graceful pavilions, tranquil ponds, and artistic rock formations showcase the refined beauty of classical Chinese landscaping.
Continue to the charming Tongli Water Town, a well-preserved ancient settlement famous for its winding canals, stone bridges, and traditional residences, offering a peaceful atmosphere to unwind.
Later, head to Suzhou Railway Station and board a high-speed train to Shanghai. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and enjoy some time to rest.
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- Shanghai
- Day 15: Shanghai City Icons & Skyline Views
Begin your exploration of this dynamic city at the Shanghai Museum, home to an extensive collection of ancient Chinese treasures such as bronzes, ceramics, paintings, and sculptures. Walk along the iconic Bund, Shanghai’s famous waterfront, and continue through the leafy streets of the Former French Concession. End the day at the Shanghai Tower, currently China’s tallest skyscraper, where an observation deck offers spectacular views over the Huangpu River.
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- Shanghai
- Day 16: Departure from Shanghai
Your journey comes to an end today. Enjoy some free time before your private guide escorts you to the airport for your onward flight home.
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