China Grand Tour: 12 Nights in Beijing, Xi'an, Chengdu, Guilin and Shanghai

Overview

Join us on a fantastic 12 night adventure through China. We will show you ancient wonders, lively traditions, and modern sights. From Beijing's imperial palaces to Xi'an's historic finds, each stop reveals a different part of the country's rich past. We will visit iconic landmarks, see the amazing Terracotta Army, and meet giant pandas in Chengdu. Guilin will charm us with its calm scenery and a lovely Li River cruise. Our trip ends in busy Shanghai, where futuristic skylines meet old world charm. We balance history, nature, and city life for a relaxing trip.

Best season: Spring and Autumn are the best times to visit China for pleasant weather.

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Trip highlights

• Explore Beijing's Forbidden City and the Great Wall of China
• Marvel at the Terracotta Army in Xi'an
• Meet giant pandas at the Chengdu Research Base
• Enjoy a scenic Li River cruise in Guilin
• Discover the modern marvels of Shanghai

Day by day itinerary

1. Day 1

   Arrival in Beijing

   When we arrive at Beijing Capital International Airport, we will transfer to the Park Plaza Beijing Wangfujing for check in. We can relax after our flight in comfortable rooms. Later, we will enjoy a welcome dinner with Peking duck specialities.

2. Day 2

   Beijing Sightseeing and Mutianyu Great Wall

   After breakfast, we will head to the Mutianyu Great Wall. We will have four to five hours to explore at our own pace or with a short guided tour. We will also enjoy a village style buffet lunch.

3. Day 3

   Beijing Cultural Exploration

   Today, we will visit the Forbidden City, the imperial palace of past dynasties. We will also see Tiananmen Square and the Temple of Heaven. We will experience Chinese tea culture at a traditional teahouse.

4. Day 4

   Beijing to Xi'an

   After breakfast and check out, we will transfer to the airport or train station for our journey to Xi'an. After checking into the Eastern House Boutique Hotel, we will enjoy lunch with local Shaanxi cuisine. Later, we can explore the ancient City Wall of Xi'an.

5. Day 5

   Xi'an Terracotta Army Tour

   This morning, we visit the Terracotta Army Museum. Our guided tour will provide insights into the Qin Dynasty. We will also enjoy an authentic family lunch in a local village.

6. Day 6

   Xi'an to Chengdu

   Today, we travel to Chengdu, the capital of Sichuan Province. After checking into the Hyatt House Chengdu Pebble Walk, we will have a local Sichuan style lunch. We can then visit Wuhou Shrine or Jinli Ancient Street.

7. Day 7

   Chengdu Panda and Leisure Day

   After breakfast, we will visit the Giant Panda Breeding Research Base. We will observe pandas of all ages and learn about conservation efforts. In the afternoon, we can visit People's Park.

8. Day 8

   Chengdu to Guilin

   Today we fly or take a high speed train to Guilin, famous for its karst landscapes. After checking into the Guilin Bravo Hotel, we will have lunch with local Guilin rice noodles. Later, we can explore Elephant Trunk Hill.

9. Day 9

   Li River Cruise and Liusanjie Show

   Today's highlight is a full day Li River cruise, showcasing stunning karst formations. We will stop at riverside villages and enjoy lunch. In the evening, we will see the Liusanjie Cultural Show.

10. Day 10

    Guilin to Shanghai

    After breakfast and check out, we will travel to Shanghai, China's modern metropolis. After checking into The Qube Hotel Shanghai Pudong, we will visit The Bund for a scenic walk. We can also explore Nanjing Road for shopping.

11. Day 11

    Shanghai City Highlights

    Today, we visit the Oriental Pearl Tower for amazing city views. We can also explore other modern architectural wonders like Shanghai Tower. In the afternoon, we will stroll through the French Concession area.

12. Day 12

    Shanghai Leisure and Optional Excursions

    Today is free for personal exploration or shopping. Alternatively, we can take an optional day trip to Zhujiajiao Water Town. In the evening, we might enjoy a cultural performance.

13. Day 13

    Departure from Shanghai

    After breakfast and check out, we will transfer to Shanghai airport for our departure. We will reflect on our amazing journey through China. Our private vehicle service will ensure a comfortable transfer.