Airport Transfer & Hotel Check-in

Welcome to Beijing, China’s magnificent capital! Upon arrival at either Beijing Daxing International Airport or Beijing Capital International Airport, your dedicated driver will greet you at the arrivals hall and escort you to your carefully selected downtown hotel. The remainder of your day is at leisure—perfect for recovering from your journey or beginning your exploration of this historic city.

Getting to Beijing: Beijing enjoys excellent connectivity via both air and high-speed rail. International flights arrive at two world-class airports, while the extensive high-speed rail network connects Beijing to major Chinese cities including Hong Kong, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Chengdu, Xi’an, and Guilin with journey times ranging from 2.5 to 6 hours.

Tiananmen Square • Forbidden City • Jingshan Park • Summer Palace

 (Breakfast & Lunch included)

Embark on a captivating journey through Beijing’s imperial heart, exploring China’s most iconic landmarks and magnificent royal gardens.

Begin at Tiananmen Square, the world’s largest public square and an enduring symbol of modern China. This historic plaza has witnessed pivotal moments in Chinese history and offers spectacular views of Tiananmen Gate, featured daily on national broadcasts.

Cross into the awe-inspiring Forbidden City, the world’s largest palace complex and UNESCO World Heritage Site. For nearly 500 years, this architectural masterpiece served as home to 24 emperors during the Ming (1368-1644) and Qing (1644-1911) dynasties. With over 8,700 rooms, this “city within a city” rivals the Vatican in scope and grandeur. Enter through the imposing Meridian Gate and follow the central axis to discover the palace’s most treasured halls while your expert guide shares fascinating stories of imperial life.

Ascend Jingshan Park for breathtaking panoramic views over modern Beijing and the Forbidden City’s distinctive golden rooftops—a photographer’s paradise.

Conclude your day at the enchanting Summer Palace, known as the “Museum of Royal Gardens.” This former imperial retreat showcases the pinnacle of Chinese landscape design with its harmonious blend of temples, pavilions, bridges, and serene lakes, offering a tranquil escape reminiscent of traditional Chinese paintings.

Note: The Forbidden City closes on Mondays. Should your visit fall on this day, we’ll adjust the itinerary to ensure you experience this wonder.

Mutianyu Great Wall • Olympic Venues Exterior

(Breakfast & Lunch included)

Journey northwest to one of humanity’s greatest achievements—the Great Wall of China at Mutianyu section (1.5-2 hour scenic drive). This 2,000-year-old marvel stretches over 3,000 miles across northern China’s dramatic landscape.

The Mutianyu section offers the perfect Great Wall experience: fully restored, less crowded, and featuring 23 magnificent Ming-era watchtowers. Take the cable car to the 14th watchtower, then embark on an unforgettable trek along the wall’s western route. Surrounded by lush pine and cypress forests, the serpentine wall creates one of China’s most spectacular vistas. Challenge yourself to reach the 20th watchtower and capture memories that will last a lifetime.

Return to Beijing for photo opportunities at the iconic Bird’s Nest (Beijing National Stadium) and Water Cube (Beijing National Aquatics Center), architectural marvels from the 2008 Olympics that also hosted events during the 2022 Winter Games.

High-Speed Rail Transfer (Breakfast included)

Experience China’s remarkable high-speed rail system as you travel from Beijing to Xi’an (4.5-5.5 hours in comfortable second-class seats). Upon arrival in Xi’an—ancient capital of 13 Chinese dynasties—your driver will welcome you and transfer you to your centrally located hotel.

Terracotta Army Museum • Ancient City Wall • Bell Tower

 (Breakfast & Lunch included)

Discover one of the world’s greatest archaeological treasures at the Terracotta Army Museum. Created over 2,000 years ago to guard Emperor Qin Shihuang in the afterlife, this underground army of 8,000 life-sized warriors showcases the extraordinary craftsmanship of ancient Chinese artisans. Marvel at the main pit containing over 6,000 terracotta figures, then explore additional chambers revealing archers, cavalry, and intricate military formations.

Return to Xi’an to walk atop the magnificent Ancient City Wall, one of China’s oldest, largest, and best-preserved fortifications. Enjoy panoramic views of both historic and modern Xi’an from this 600-year-old marvel.

As evening falls, visit the illuminated Bell Tower, a stunning Ming Dynasty landmark that beautifully represents Xi’an’s harmonious blend of ancient heritage and modern vitality. Experience local culture at the nearby Zhonggu Tower Square, where you might witness the enchanting musical fountain and vibrant square dancing.

Giant Wild Goose Pagoda • Muslim Quarter • Evening Transfer to Chengdu

 (Breakfast included)

Begin at the iconic Giant Wild Goose Pagoda, Xi’an’s most recognizable landmark and a symbol of Tang Dynasty magnificence. This seven-story pagoda, completed in 652 AD, houses precious Buddhist sutras brought from India by the legendary monk Xuanzang, whose journeys inspired the classic Chinese novel “Journey to the West.”

Explore the vibrant Muslim Quarter, a historic neighborhood that has thrived for over 1,000 years behind the Drum Tower. Immerse yourself in the bustling atmosphere, sample authentic local cuisine, and browse traditional crafts in this cultural melting pot.

Board your high-speed train to Chengdu (3-4 hours), where you’ll be welcomed to this laid-back city famous for giant pandas and exceptional Sichuan cuisine.

Chengdu Panda Base • Sanxingdui Museum • Jinli Old Street 

(Breakfast & Lunch included)

Fulfill your panda dreams at the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, home to the world’s largest captive panda population. Observe over 100 giant pandas of all ages as they play, eat, and rest in their natural habitat. During autumn visits, you may glimpse adorable newborn cubs in the specialized nursery houses. Don’t miss the charming red pandas in their dedicated playground areas, and deepen your understanding at the fascinating Panda Museum.

Tip: Arrive early when pandas are most active in the cooler morning temperatures.

Journey to the remarkable Sanxingdui Site Museum, where archaeological discoveries continue to astound experts worldwide. These 3,000-5,000-year-old artifacts from the ancient Shu Kingdom include the magnificent Bronze Sacred Tree (3.96m tall), the imposing Bronze Standing Figure (2.6m), and the mysterious Vertical-eyed Bronze Mask. The golden scepter and jade artifacts reveal a sophisticated civilization that predates known Chinese history by over 2,000 years.

Note: During peak season, this visit may be replaced with the equally fascinating Jinsha Site.

Conclude your day strolling through Jinli Old Street, an 1,800-year-old cultural quarter showcasing the heritage of the Ancient Shu Kingdom. Savor local delicacies, browse traditional crafts, and enjoy folk performances along the charming stone-paved streets.

Transfer to the Land of Natural Masterpieces

 (Breakfast included)

Travel by high-speed rail to Guilin (5-6 hours), renowned for its extraordinary karst landscape. Upon arrival, your driver will transfer you to your downtown hotel.

Note: Depending on schedules, this journey may be by direct flight (1.5 hours).

Scenic River Cruise • Rural Village Experience • West Street 

(Breakfast & Lunch included)

Experience the legendary beauty that inspired the saying “East or west, Guilin landscape is the best.” Board your Li River cruise for a 4.5-hour journey through landscapes so stunning they’ve been designated one of the “world’s top 10 watery wonders” by National Geographic.

Glide along 84 kilometers of pristine river, surrounded by emerald limestone karst peaks, grazing water buffalo, terraced fields, and picturesque villages nestled at the base of dramatic hills. This living Chinese painting unfolds before your eyes as you cruise toward Yangshuo.

Upon arrival, explore Yangshuo’s countryside by bicycle, winding through postcard-perfect rice paddies and karst formations while passing through tranquil farming villages—a perfect opportunity for authentic cultural encounters.

Optional: Upgrade to an electric scooter for additional comfort (extra fee applies).

Evening brings leisure time on famous West Street, Yangshuo’s cultural heart where East meets West. This cosmopolitan boulevard offers everything from cozy cafes and local eateries to vibrant bars and artisan shops—the perfect setting for your evening in this enchanting town.

Elephant Trunk Hill • Reed Flute Cave • High-Speed Rail to Chongqing • Cruise Boarding

(Breakfast included)

Begin with Guilin’s most beloved landmark, Elephant Trunk Hill, where the Li and Peach Blossom Rivers converge. This natural sculpture perfectly resembles a giant elephant drinking from the river—Guilin’s signature sight.

Explore the magical Reed Flute Cave, nature’s crystal palace adorned with spectacular stalactites and stalagmites. Enhanced by artistic lighting, this karst wonderland creates an otherworldly experience often called the “Palace of Natural Arts.”

Board your high-speed train to Chongqing, the dynamic “Mountain City.” Upon arrival, transfer directly to Chaotianmen Port to embark on your Yangtze River cruise, departing at 9:00 PM for your luxurious river journey.

Important: Yangtze cruise schedules and ports may vary based on weather, water levels, and seasonal conditions. All times are approximate.

Fengdu Ghost City Shore Excursion (All meals included)

Awaken to serene river views as your cruise glides peacefully along the mighty Yangtze. Enjoy a leisurely buffet breakfast while watching the changing landscape drift by your window.

Take a fascinating shore excursion to Fengdu Ghost City, an extraordinary complex of temples, memorials, and monasteries dedicated to Chinese underworld mythology. Discover captivating legends about the afterlife and encounter intricate depictions of demons and deities from Chinese folklore.

Alternative excursion: Visit Shibaozhai Pagoda, one of the world’s eight architectural wonders—a 12-story red wooden pagoda offering spectacular Yangtze River views (additional fee may apply).

Note: Shore excursions vary by cruise line. We’ll select the most suitable cruise based on your preferences and departure dates.

Qutang Gorge • Wuxia Gorge • Xiling Gorge • Shennv Stream (All meals included)

Experience the legendary Three Gorges, China’s most celebrated river scenery. Navigate through Qutang Gorge with its dramatic Kui Gate, arguably the most magnificent and precipitous gorge entrance in the world. Continue through the serene Wuxia Gorge, famous for its secluded beauty and panoramic vistas, then traverse Xiling Gorge, known for its rugged character and turbulent waters.

In the afternoon, take a memorable excursion to Shennv Stream (Goddess Stream) in Wushan County. Transfer to smaller boats for an intimate journey through this pristine tributary, surrounded by towering cliffs adorned with ancient hanging coffins. Enjoy optional cultural performances by local Tujia ethnic guides featuring traditional songs and dances.

Celebrate your final evening aboard with the Captain’s Farewell Party, sharing dinner and memories with fellow travelers.

Engineering Marvel • High-Speed Rail Transfer 

(Breakfast included)

After breakfast and check-out, disembark at Maoping Port for a visit to the Three Gorges Dam, China’s largest hydropower project and an engineering triumph. This colossal structure spans 2,335 meters across the Yangtze River, standing 181 meters high and 115 meters wide.

Optional upgrade: Experience the world’s largest ship lift for an extraordinary close-up view of this engineering marvel (additional fee).

Transfer to Yichang Three Gorges Center Cruise Terminal, then board your high-speed train to Shanghai (6-7 hours). Upon arrival in this cosmopolitan metropolis, your driver will escort you to your downtown hotel.

Luggage note: The cruise company will handle your luggage transfer to the terminal. Arrival times vary based on optional activities selected.

Shanghai Tower Observatory • Shanghai Museum • Yu Garden • Nanjing Road • The Bund

 (Breakfast & Lunch included)

Discover Shanghai, the “Paris of the East,” where East seamlessly blends with West in spectacular fashion.

Begin in the futuristic Pudong district at Shanghai Tower, China’s tallest building and the world’s second-highest at 632 meters. Ascend via the world’s fastest elevators (64 km/h) to the “Top of Shanghai Observatory” on the 118th floor, 546 meters above ground, for unparalleled 360-degree city views.

Visit the renowned Shanghai Museum, architecturally designed to resemble an ancient bronze ding vessel with its round top and square base, symbolizing “round sky, square earth.” Explore 120,000 cultural artifacts spanning 5,000 years of Chinese civilization, including magnificent bronzes like the 3,000-year-old Da Ke Ding and the musical Bianzhong of Marquis Su of Jin.

Stroll through Yu Garden, Shanghai’s most celebrated classical Chinese garden, hidden within the bustling city center. Admire exquisite architecture, intricate sculptures, and traditional landscaping. The adjacent Yuyuan Bazaar offers authentic local snacks and traditional crafts.

Walk along Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street, lined with international brands, gourmet restaurants, and towering skyscrapers. Conclude at The Bund, Shanghai’s most iconic waterfront promenade. Known as the “Exhibition of International Architecture,” this historic area features 52 buildings representing various architectural styles, offering stunning views of the ultramodern Pudong skyline.

Note: Shanghai Museum and Yu Garden close on Mondays. Alternative visits may include the Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Center, City God Temple, or the atmospheric French Concession.

Farewell to the Middle Kingdom (Breakfast included)

Your extraordinary journey through China’s imperial dynasties and natural wonders concludes today. Enjoy final moments exploring Shanghai at your leisure before your airport transfer for departure to your next destination.