- 4.9/5 1638 Latest reviews
- Destination: China
- Duration: 14 Days
- Tour Type: Private & Bespoke
- Tour Style: Classic
About This Trip
Explore China’s most iconic landmarks on this immersive 14-day journey, complete with scenic river cruising. Begin in Beijing, where you’ll hike the Great Wall and explore historic sites. Continue to Xi’an to marvel at the legendary Terracotta Warriors before heading to the stunning landscapes of Guilin, enjoying a leisurely Li River cruise and a countryside tour in Yangshuo.
Next, visit Chongqing to witness the remarkable Liziba monorail passing through a building, then embark on a 4-day Yangtze River cruise, discovering cultural and natural treasures along the way, including the impressive Three Gorges Dam. Conclude your adventure in Shanghai, experiencing the modern skyline of the Bund, the classical beauty of Yu Gardens, and the charming streets of the historic French Concession.
Summary
DAY
PLACE
HIGHLIGHTS
1 - 4
Beijing
Great Wall, Forbidden City, Temple of Heaven, Summer Palace
5 - 6
Xi'an
Terracotta Warriors, Ancient City Wall, Muslim Quarter
7 - 8
Guilin
Li River Cruise, West Street, Reed Flute Cave
9
Chongqing
Ciqikou Old Town, Shancheng Alley, Huguang Guild Hall
10 - 12
Yangtze River Cruise
Three Gorges Dam, Shennv Stream, Fengdu Ghost City
13 - 14
Shanghai
The Bund, Former French Concession, Jade Buddha Temple
Itinerary
- Day 1: Arrive in Beijing
Upon arrival in Beijing, your personal tour guide will greet you at the airport arrival hall with a name board and the Odynovo logo. You’ll then be transferred to your hotel in comfort. The remainder of the day is free for you to unwind and recover from your journey.
- Beijing
- Day 2: Explore the Forbidden City
Begin your day with a visit to Tiananmen Square, followed by a tour of the magnificent Forbidden City. This grand palace complex was home to China’s emperors during the Ming and Qing dynasties. With your expert guide, discover the history, legends, and architectural details of each palace. If a particular story captures your interest, you are welcome to spend more time exploring.
In the afternoon, explore the Summer Palace, a stunning example of Chinese landscape gardening. Stroll through its serene grounds, admiring the elegant temples, pavilions, and scenic views.
For the evening, consider attending an optional Kung Fu Show, offering an exciting display of traditional Chinese martial arts, music, dance, and acrobatics, perfect for a captivating cultural experience.
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- Beijing
- Day 3: Beijing – Great Wall
Today, visit one of Beijing’s most iconic landmarks, the stunning Great Wall. Explore the Mutianyu section, known for its breathtaking scenery and smaller crowds. You can take the convenient round-trip cable car to the top and back, then leisurely stroll along the wall, soaking in the panoramic views.
Afterward, continue to the Changling Tombs, where you can learn about the traditions and customs of ancient emperors, as well as the planning and construction of their grand mausoleums. Fascinating stories and historical insights await your discovery.
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- Beijing
- Day 4: Beijing to Xi’an – Hutong Rickshaw Tour
Start your day with a visit to the Temple of Heaven, where emperors of ancient China once offered prayers for a plentiful harvest. Today, it serves as a lively public park, where you can often see locals practicing Tai Chi and other traditional exercises.
Later, explore Beijing’s historic Hutongs to discover the daily life of residents still living in traditional quadrangle houses. Hop on a rickshaw and wind through the narrow alleys, taking in the sights, sounds, and aromas of local street food. Don’t miss regional specialties such as almond tofu and Zhajiangmian (fried noodles), which offer a true taste of the neighborhood.
After the tour, board a high-speed train to Xi’an. Upon arrival, your guide will welcome you at the station and transfer you to your hotel for the night.
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- Xi’an
- Day 5: Visit the Terracotta Army in Xi’an
This morning, explore the legendary Terracotta Warriors, an astonishing underground army of life-sized clay soldiers, each with unique expressions and details. Marvel at the scale and artistry of this remarkable archaeological discovery.
In the afternoon, return to Xi’an and take in the charming red-lantern-lined streets from atop the Ancient City Wall. Then, wander through the vibrant Muslim Quarter, experiencing the daily life of the local Chinese Muslim community, sampling exotic snacks, and browsing for colorful souvenirs.
In the evening, you have the option to attend the Tang Dynasty Show, a captivating performance showcasing the music, dance, and cultural richness of one of China’s most glorious eras.
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- Xi’an
- Day 6: Guilin: Reed Flute Cave Tour from Xi’an
Take a morning flight from Xi’an to Guilin. Upon arrival, your local guide and driver will greet you and accompany you to the Reed Flute Cave, a spectacular underground wonder filled with intricate stalactites and stalagmites, illuminated by enchanting lights. After exploring the cave, you will be transferred to your hotel to check in and relax.
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- Guilin
- Day 7: Li River Cruise from Guilin to Yangshuo
Travel to Zhujiang Pier, approximately a 50-minute drive, and embark on a scenic Li River cruise to Yangshuo. As you glide along the river, admire the striking karst peaks that have inspired generations of poets and painters.
After the cruise, your guide will lead you through the bustling West Street before escorting you to your hotel. For those with extra energy, an optional countryside tour by bicycle or private vehicle offers a chance to explore Yangshuo’s tranquil rural landscapes.
Additionally, visitors interested in local Chinese minority culture may choose to attend the Impression of Sanjie Liu, a spectacular outdoor performance set against the stunning backdrop of the Li River and karst mountains.
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- Yangshuo
- Day 8: Yangshuo Exploration & High-Speed Train to Chongqing
Enjoy a relaxed morning in Yangshuo, wandering through the charming villages at your own pace. Observe farmers starting their day and immerse yourself in the serene, calming ambiance of rural life.
Later, board a high-speed train for a 5–6 hour journey to Chongqing, a vibrant city known for its dramatic hillside skyline, fiery cuisine, and multi-layered urban landscape. Upon arrival at the train station near the Three Gorges, your local guide will welcome you and escort you to your hotel for check-in and a well-deserved rest.
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- Chongqing
- Day 9: Experience the Best of Chongqing
Start your morning in Ciqikou Old Town, wandering through its stone-paved streets lined with teahouses, shops, and bustling market stalls that showcase the enduring charm of Chongqing. Those interested in local cuisine can enjoy a traditional breakfast here. Next, explore Shancheng Alley, where the city’s layered history is visible in the remnants of ancient walls, wooden stilt houses, and wartime courtyards overlooking the Yangtze River. Stop at Liziba Monorail Station, famous for trains passing directly through residential buildings, and then take the light rail to Eling Park for panoramic views of the city and rivers. Walk down to Eling Second Factory, now a creative space filled with cafés and studios, and enjoy a leisurely lunch.
In the afternoon, visit the Huguang Guild Hall, a cultural gem featuring traditional courtyards, intricate carvings, and a captivating performance of Sichuan opera face-changing and local folk arts.
Finally, head to the port to board your Yangtze River Cruise, beginning the next exciting stage of your journey.
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- Yangtze River Cruise
- Day 10: Yangtze River Journey with Fengdu Ghost City Visit
After enjoying breakfast, start the day with a soothing and engaging Tai Chi session on the ship’s deck. Upon arriving at Fengdu, disembark for a shore excursion to the famed Ghost City, where legends and Taoist customs are vividly displayed. A cable car ride is available for those wishing to see the city from above (additional cost applies). Return to the ship to participate in cultural activities before the evening. Later, you can opt to attend the FengYan SanGuo Show (extra cost), an impressive open-air performance that brings the Romance of the Three Kingdoms to life with thrilling martial arts and spectacular stage effects.
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- Yangtze River Cruise
- Day 11: Yangtze Cruise Adventure: Shennv Stream
Marvel at the grandeur of the Yangtze River as you relax on board and soak in the scenery. History enthusiasts can join an optional excursion to the White Emperor City to delve into the river’s rich past.
In the afternoon, get ready to explore the breathtaking Shennv Stream. Glide along the deep gorge on a traditional wooden boat, taking in the dramatic landscapes and glimpsing the everyday life of the local riverside communities.
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- Yangtze River Cruise
- Day 12: From Yichang to Shanghai, Visiting the Three Gorges Dam
Today, you will marvel at the engineering wonder of the Three Gorges Dam, stretching across the mighty Yangtze River and recognized as one of the world’s largest hydroelectric power stations.
Your memorable Yangtze River cruise concludes in Yichang. After disembarking, your private guide will escort you to the Yichang tourist center, where you’ll be transferred to the airport for your onward flight to Shanghai.
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- Shanghai
- Day 13: Discover Shanghai
Begin your Shanghai adventure at the Shanghai Museum, home to an impressive collection of ancient Chinese artifacts, including ceramics, paintings, calligraphy, and sculptures. Next, visit the Yu Garden, a beautifully landscaped classical garden considered one of the finest in southern China. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through the shaded streets of the Former French Concession, experiencing the charm of old colonial architecture blended with modern life. Conclude the day with a walk along the Bund, where you can admire historic buildings and soak in the essence of Old Shanghai from the 1920s.
In the evening, you have the option to enjoy a spectacular Acrobatic Show, which requires advance booking for an unforgettable performance.
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- Shanghai
- Day 14: End of Shanghai Tour
Enjoy some free time this morning until your guide arrives to escort you to the airport for your flight home. Bid farewell to China and cherish the memories of your journey!
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