Overview
This 13-day China highlights tour combines the country’s most iconic historical landmarks, natural landscapes, and unforgettable wildlife experiences.
Explore the ancient capitals of Beijing and Xi’an, meet the adorable giant pandas in Chengdu, cruise through the spectacular Three Gorges of the Yangtze River, and discover the dynamic modern city of Shanghai.
From walking along the Great Wall of China to standing before the legendary Terracotta Warriors, and from relaxing on a scenic river cruise to enjoying authentic local food experiences, this journey offers a complete introduction to China.
It is an ideal itinerary for first-time visitors and families who want to experience the country’s history, nature, culture, and wildlife in one unforgettable trip.
Tour Highlights
Walk along the legendary Great Wall of China
Explore the imperial Forbidden City in Beijing
Discover the incredible Terracotta Warriors in Xi’an
Join a hands-on panda keeper experience in Chengdu
Cruise through the dramatic Three Gorges of the Yangtze River
Visit the engineering wonder of the Three Gorges Dam
Experience authentic Chinese culture through dumpling making and tea traditions
Enjoy panoramic views from Shanghai Tower
Itinerary Quick Look
| Day | Destination | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Beijing | Arrival |
| Day 2 | Beijing | Tiananmen Square, Forbidden City, Hutongs |
| Day 3 | Beijing | Temple of Heaven, Great Wall |
| Day 4 | Beijing → Xi’an | Summer Palace, flight |
| Day 5 | Xi’an | Terracotta Warriors, City Wall |
| Day 6 | Xi’an → Chengdu | Pagoda, dumpling experience |
| Day 7 | Chengdu | Panda Keeper Program |
| Day 8 | Chengdu → Chongqing | Local life, high-speed train |
| Day 9 | Yangtze Cruise | Fengdu Ghost City |
| Day10 | Yangtze Cruise | Qutang Gorge, Wu Gorge |
| Day11 | Yichang → Shanghai | Three Gorges Dam |
| Day12 | Shanghai | Bund, Shanghai Tower |
| Day13 | Shanghai | Departure |
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 surrounding area.
Day 2 – Forbidden City & Hutong Culture
Begin at Tiananmen Square, the symbolic center of modern China.
Continue to the Forbidden City, the largest imperial palace complex in the world. Your guide will share stories of emperors, royal ceremonies, and daily life inside the palace walls.
In the afternoon, explore the historic Hutong alleyways by rickshaw and visit a traditional courtyard home.
Day 3 – Great Wall of China
Start the day at the Temple of Heaven, where emperors once prayed for good harvests.
Later travel to the Mutianyu section of the Great Wall, known for its beautiful scenery and well-preserved watchtowers.
Walk along the wall and enjoy sweeping views of the surrounding mountains.
Day 4 – Summer Palace & Flight to Xi’an
Visit the elegant Summer Palace, a royal retreat featuring lakes, gardens, and traditional pavilions.
Enjoy a famous Beijing roast duck lunch before flying to Xi’an, one of China’s oldest cities.
Day 5 – Terracotta Warriors & Ancient City Wall
Discover the legendary Terracotta Army, an underground army created more than 2,000 years ago to guard the tomb of China’s first emperor.
Later visit Xi’an’s Ancient City Wall, one of the best-preserved city walls in China. You can walk or cycle along the ramparts.
End the day exploring the lively Muslim Quarter.
Day 6 – Cultural Experiences & Train to Chengdu
Visit the historic Little Wild Goose Pagoda, an important Buddhist site in Xi’an.
Later join a local family to learn how to make traditional Chinese dumplings before enjoying them for lunch.
In the afternoon, travel by high-speed train to Chengdu.
Day 7 – Panda Keeper Experience
Today you will meet one of China’s most beloved animals — the giant panda.
At the Dujiangyan Panda Base, participate in a Panda Keeper Program, where you can prepare bamboo, observe feeding time, and learn about panda conservation.
Day 8 – Chengdu Lifestyle & Travel to Chongqing
Experience everyday life in Chengdu People’s Park, where locals drink tea, play mahjong, and practice dancing.
Later explore Jinli Old Street, known for its traditional architecture and Sichuan snacks.
In the evening, travel by high-speed train to Chongqing and board your Yangtze River cruise ship.
Day 9 – Yangtze River Cruise
Visit Fengdu Ghost City, a fascinating site filled with temples and sculptures representing Chinese beliefs about the afterlife.
Enjoy cultural activities and scenic views from the cruise ship.
Day 10 – The Three Gorges
Cruise through the breathtaking landscapes of the Three Gorges, including Qutang Gorge and Wu Gorge.
In the afternoon, take a smaller boat to explore the beautiful Shennv Stream.
Day 11 – Three Gorges Dam & Travel to Shanghai
Disembark in Yichang and visit the Three Gorges Dam, the world’s largest hydroelectric project.
After the tour, take a high-speed train to Shanghai.
Day 12 – Shanghai Highlights
Visit the classical Yu Garden, hidden among the skyscrapers of the city.
Walk along the historic Bund, where colonial-era buildings face the modern skyline of Pudong.
Finish the day at Shanghai Tower, enjoying panoramic views of one of the world’s most dynamic cities.
Day 13 – Departure from Shanghai
Your guide will transfer you to the airport for your departure flight.
Your journey ends after an unforgettable exploration of China’s history, landscapes, and wildlife.
Why Choose This Tour
China’s Most Iconic Experiences
Great Wall, Terracotta Warriors, pandas, Yangtze River, and Shanghai skyline.
Perfect First-Time China Itinerary
A balanced mix of history, nature, culture, and wildlife.
Unique Cultural Activities
Dumpling making, panda conservation experience, and local lifestyle encounters.
Efficient Travel Route
High-speed trains and domestic flights ensure smooth travel across China.
FAQ & Important Notes
1.The option 1 pricing is per person, option 2 pricing is per vehicle. We always try to match the appropriate vehicle with the requirements of each group based on the number of guests, their ages, any mobility issues, etc.
2.The price presented assumes your hotel is located within the Fifth-Ring road of Beijing. The price may vary according to the location of your hotel. And there will be extra cost if your tour start or end from the airport.
3.The quoted price is for a-9 hour tour per day. If you use more than 7 hours or less than 9 hours per day it will still be considered a full day. Additional hours are billed at 100CNY for the guide and 100CNY for the driver.
4.Our vehicles are climate controlled so our driving tours go out in rain, snow or heatwave! We require that any cancellations take place 48 hours prior to the tour. If you cancel within 48 hours of your tour you will be responsible for the total amount of your tour.
5.We offer tours in other languages! When you send us your booking form you will be asked if you need a guide who speaks a language other than English.
6.Tipping is always optional. If you had a great time and want to thank your guide and driver, a gratuity is always appreciated.
SO BUCKLE UP AND ENJOY AN EXPERIENCE TO REMEMBER!