Overview

This 12-day classic China tour combines the country’s most iconic cultural landmarks with one of the world’s most scenic river journeys.

Explore China’s historic capitals Beijing and Xi’an, cruise through the dramatic Three Gorges of the Yangtze River, and discover the vibrant modern city of Shanghai.

From the Great Wall and the Forbidden City to the Terracotta Warriors and the spectacular landscapes along the Yangtze River, this journey offers a perfect balance of history, culture, and natural scenery.

It is an ideal itinerary for first-time visitors to China who want to experience the country’s most famous highlights in one seamless trip.

Tour Highlights

• Walk along the Great Wall of China, including a unique night visit to Simatai

• Explore the imperial heart of China at the Forbidden City

• Discover the legendary Terracotta Warriors in Xi’an

• Experience traditional culture with a terracotta warrior crafting workshop

• Cruise through the spectacular Three Gorges of the Yangtze River

• Visit the engineering marvel of the Three Gorges Dam

• Admire the skyline of modern China from Shanghai Tower

• Discover the charm of Zhujiajiao Water Town near Shanghai

Itinerary Quick Look

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1 – Arrival in Beijing

Welcome to Beijing, China’s historic capital.

Your private guide will meet you at the airport and transfer you to your hotel. The rest of the day is free to relax or explore the city.

Day 2 – Forbidden City & Temple of Heaven

Start your day at Tiananmen Square, the symbolic center of modern China.

Then explore the magnificent Forbidden City, the largest imperial palace complex in the world. Your guide will lead you through the main halls and quieter courtyards, bringing the history of the Ming and Qing dynasties to life.

In the afternoon, visit the Temple of Heaven, where emperors once prayed for good harvests.

Enjoy a traditional Peking duck lunch during the day.

Day 3 – Summer Palace & Simatai Great Wall Night Tour

Visit the beautiful Summer Palace, a royal retreat known for its lakes, pavilions, and classical gardens.

Later travel to Gubei Water Town, a charming traditional-style village at the foot of the Great Wall.

In the evening, take a cable car to the Simatai section of the Great Wall, one of the few sections open for night visits, offering an unforgettable view of the illuminated wall and surrounding mountains.

Day 4 – Jinshanling Great Wall & Train to Xi’an

In the morning, visit Jinshanling Great Wall, widely regarded as one of the most scenic sections of the wall.

Here you can see both restored watchtowers and original Ming Dynasty structures, offering a perfect balance of history and scenery.

Return to Beijing and take a high-speed train to Xi’an, one of China’s oldest capitals.

Day 5 – Terracotta Warriors & Xi’an City Wall

Start your day with a walk or bike ride along Xi’an’s Ancient City Wall, one of the best-preserved city walls in China.

Then visit the world-famous Terracotta Army, an underground army built to guard the tomb of China’s first emperor.

Later enjoy a special experience learning how to craft a miniature terracotta warrior with local artisans.

Day 6 – Flight to Chongqing

Fly to Chongqing, the gateway to the Yangtze River.

Visit the Three Gorges Museum, which introduces the history, culture, and engineering achievements of the Yangtze River region.

In the evening, board your Yangtze River cruise ship.

Day 7 – Yangtze River Cruise

Today the cruise stops at Fengdu Ghost City, a fascinating site filled with temples and sculptures representing Chinese beliefs about the afterlife.

Spend the rest of the day relaxing on board while enjoying cultural activities and scenic river views.

Day 8 – The Three Gorges

Cruise through the dramatic landscapes of the Three Gorges, including the narrow Qutang Gorge and the beautiful Wu Gorge.

In the afternoon, take a smaller boat excursion along Shennv Stream, where steep cliffs and emerald waters create one of the most scenic sections of the Yangtze.

Day 9 – Three Gorges Dam & Travel to Shanghai

Disembark in Yichang and visit the impressive Three Gorges Dam, the world’s largest hydroelectric project.

After the tour, take a high-speed train to Shanghai.

Day 10 – Shanghai City Highlights

Begin your exploration at Yu Garden, a classical Chinese garden dating back to the Ming Dynasty.

Walk along the historic Bund, where colonial buildings face the futuristic skyline of Pudong.

End the day at Shanghai Tower, enjoying panoramic views from one of the world’s tallest buildings.

Day 11 – Zhujiajiao Water Town

Take a day trip to Zhujiajiao, an ancient water town known for its canals, stone bridges, and traditional houses.

Enjoy a relaxing boat ride along the canals and experience the lifestyle of the Jiangnan region.

Return to Shanghai in the afternoon with free time to explore the city.

Day 12 – Departure from Shanghai

Your guide will transfer you to Shanghai Pudong International Airport for your departure flight.

Your journey ends after 12 unforgettable days exploring the history, landscapes, and modern cities of China.

Why Choose This Tour

China’s Most Famous Highlights
Visit Beijing, Xi’an, the Yangtze River, and Shanghai in one journey.

A Perfect Balance of Culture and Nature
Ancient capitals, world heritage sites, and breathtaking river landscapes.

Unique Experiences
Night tour of the Great Wall, terracotta crafting workshop, and a scenic Yangtze cruise.

Efficient Travel
High-speed trains and domestic flights ensure smooth travel across China.