First Glimpse of China: Classic China Tour in 20 days

This 20-day journey offers first-time visitors a comprehensive exploration of China's rich cultural heritage and natural beauty. From the ancient imperial palaces of Beijing and the legendary Terracotta Warriors in Xi'an to the stunning karst landscapes of Guilin, the homeland of pandas in Chengdu, the otherworldly scenery of Zhangjiajie, and the vibrant modernity of Shanghai, this tour provides an unforgettable introduction to China’s past, present, and future.

Part 1: Beijing - Ancient Capital: Tracing China's Civilization (4 days)
Beijing, the capital of China, is a city steeped in over 3,000 years of history. As the political, cultural, and educational center of China, Beijing offers visitors a chance to explore its rich heritage, from the Forbidden City to the Great Wall, and experience the vibrant mix of tradition and modernity.

Day 1: Arrival in Beijing

• Activity: Relax and stroll along Wangfujing Street, sampling local delicacies.

Day 2: Beijing’s Cultural and Historical Tour

• Visit: Tiananmen Square, Forbidden City, and Jingshan Park.
• Lunch: Try Beijing's famous Zhajiangmian (noodles with soybean paste).
• Afternoon: Explore Beihai Park and take in the panoramic views from Jingshan Hill.
• Dinner: Savor Beijing’s iconic Peking duck.

Day 3: Great Wall and Ming Tombs

• Visit: Hike or take a cable car at Badaling Great Wall.
• Lunch: Enjoy a local farmhouse meal near the Great Wall.
• Afternoon: Explore the Ming Tombs, discovering the burial sites of Ming Dynasty emperors.
• Dinner: Return to the city and enjoy a hotpot meal.

Day 4: Summer Palace and Hutong Culture

• Visit: Stroll around the Summer Palace, soaking in the beauty of Kunming Lake.
• Lunch: Taste imperial snacks in the area.
• Afternoon: Tour Beijing’s traditional hutongs by bike or on foot, visit a courtyard home, and experience a traditional tea ceremony.
• Dinner: Choose between Peking duck or a variety of street food options.
• Evening: Board a high-speed train to Xi'an.

Part 2: Xi'an - Terracotta Warriors: Witnessing the Qin Empire (4 days)
Xi’an, one of the oldest cities in China, was the starting point of the Silk Road and the capital for 13 dynasties. Home to the Terracotta Warriors, the Big Wild Goose Pagoda, and many other historical sites, Xi’an offers an immersive experience into China’s ancient culture and history.

Day 5: Arrival in Xi'an

• Activity: Explore Xi’an’s city center, cycling along the ancient city walls.
• Dinner: Try local specialties like Roujiamo (Chinese hamburger) and Liangpi (cold noodles).

Day 6: Terracotta Warriors and History Museum

• Visit: Discover the Terracotta Warriors and Horses Museum, learning about ancient Chinese military history.
• Lunch: Dine at a nearby restaurant.
• Afternoon: Visit the Shaanxi History Museum, tracing the origins and development of Chinese civilization.
• Dinner: Enjoy the local dish Yangrou Paomo (crumbled flatbread soaked in lamb soup).

Day 7: Tang Dynasty Culture and Buddhism

• Visit: Explore the Big Wild Goose Pagoda and Tang Paradise, experiencing the grandeur of the Tang Dynasty and the influence of Buddhism.
• Lunch: Enjoy a Tang-style meal at a themed restaurant.
• Afternoon: Stroll through the Great Tang All Day Mall, where history and modernity blend seamlessly.
• Dinner: Delight in a hotpot meal or Suantang Mian (sour soup noodles).

Day 8: Xi'an's Ancient City and Muslim Culture

• Visit: Explore the Great Mosque and wander through the vibrant Muslim Quarter, experiencing the unique fusion of Islamic and Chinese cultures.
• Lunch: Sample street food in the Muslim Quarter.
• Afternoon: Optional visit to the Xi'an Beilin Museum or free time.
• Dinner: Savor local snacks in the ancient city area.
• Evening: Fly to Guilin.

Part 3: Guilin - Karst Landscape Kingdom (3 days)
Guilin is renowned for its unique karst mountains and stunning river scenery, earning the saying “Guilin’s landscape is the best under heaven.” The city offers breathtaking natural beauty with the Li River, Longji Rice Terraces, and the vibrant West Street in Yangshuo.

Day 9: Arrival in Guilin

• Activity: Take a leisurely stroll along the Li River and enjoy the scenic beauty.
• Dinner: Try the local specialty, Guilin rice noodles.

Day 10: Li River Cruise

• Visit: Embark on a cruise along the Li River, marveling at the famous Nine Horse Fresco Hill and the Yellow Cloth Shoal.
• Lunch: Simple meal on the boat.
• Afternoon: Arrive in Yangshuo, explore the bustling West Street, and immerse yourself in local culture.
• Dinner: Enjoy Beer Fish and other Yangshuo specialties.

Day 11: Longji Rice Terraces and Minority Cultures

• Visit: Head to the Longji Rice Terraces and admire the awe-inspiring terraced landscapes.
• Lunch: Savor a farmhouse meal.
• Afternoon: Learn about the local Zhuang and Yao ethnic cultures.
• Dinner: Enjoy traditional farmhouse cuisine.
• Evening: Fly to Chengdu.

Part 4: Chengdu - Home of the Giant Pandas (3 days)
Chengdu, the capital of Sichuan Province, is known for its laid-back lifestyle, rich history, and spicy cuisine. As the hometown of the giant pandas, Chengdu offers visitors a unique blend of cultural heritage, nature, and culinary delights.

Day 12: Arrival in Chengdu

• Activity: Visit Kuanzhai Alley and Jinli Ancient Street, experiencing the leisurely lifestyle of Chengdu.
• Dinner: Relish a Sichuan hotpot feast.

Day 13: Giant Panda Base and Tea Culture

• Visit: Spend the morning at the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, getting up close with these adorable animals.
• Lunch: Enjoy a meal at a local restaurant.
• Afternoon: Visit Wangjianglou Park and immerse yourself in Sichuan’s tea culture while relaxing with a cup of tea.
• Dinner: Taste Sichuan cuisine classics such as Kung Pao Chicken and Fish-Flavored Shredded Pork.

Day 14: Dujiangyan and Mount Qingcheng

• Visit: Explore the ancient Dujiangyan Irrigation System, a testament to ancient Chinese engineering.
• Lunch: Dine at a nearby restaurant.
• Afternoon: Visit Mount Qingcheng, a key center of Taoism, and enjoy its natural beauty.
• Dinner: Return to Chengdu and enjoy a hotpot or other Sichuan specialties.
• Evening: Fly to Zhangjiajie.

Part 5: Zhangjiajie - Avatar’s Heavenly Realm (3 days)
Zhangjiajie is famous for its stunning natural beauty, featuring towering sandstone pillars, deep ravines, and lush forests. As China’s first national forest park, Zhangjiajie offers a breathtaking adventure through its surreal landscapes, often compared to the world of "Avatar."

Day 15: Arrival in Zhangjiajie

• Activity: Relax and explore the city in preparation for the next day’s adventure.
• Dinner: Savor local Hunan cuisine.

Day 16: Zhangjiajie National Forest Park

• Visit: Explore Tianmen Mountain and walk the thrilling glass skywalk.
• Lunch: Dine at a restaurant within the park.
• Afternoon: Continue to explore the towering peaks, including the famous Avatar Hallelujah Mountain.
• Dinner: Enjoy Hunan specialty dishes.

Day 17: Wulingyuan Scenic Area and Yellow Dragon Cave

• Visit: Discover the breathtaking Wulingyuan Scenic Area and the vast Yellow Dragon Cave.
• Lunch: Eat at a restaurant within the scenic area.
• Afternoon: Free time to explore more of Zhangjiajie or relax.
• Dinner: Try local snacks in Zhangjiajie city.
• Evening: Fly to Shanghai.

Part 6: Shanghai - Fashion Capital: The Oriental Manhattan (3 days)
Shanghai, China's most modern and cosmopolitan city, is a vibrant hub of finance, culture, and fashion. Visitors can experience the perfect blend of history and modernity, from the historic Bund with its colonial architecture to the futuristic skyline of Pudong and the traditional beauty of Yu Garden.

Day 18: Arrival in Shanghai

• Activity: Stroll along the Bund, taking in the contrast of old and new across the Huangpu River.
• Dinner: Enjoy local Shanghainese cuisine or dine at a restaurant along the Bund.

Day 19: Fusion of Modern and Historical Shanghai

• Visit: Explore Yu Garden and the City God Temple, experiencing the beauty of traditional Chinese gardens and architecture.
• Lunch: Eat at a restaurant within Yu Garden or sample local snacks.
• Afternoon: Shop along Nanjing Road and visit the Shanghai Museum.
• Dinner: Enjoy a cruise on the Huangpu River with a dinner on board, taking in Shanghai’s dazzling night skyline.

Day 20: Departure from Shanghai

• Morning: Free time for last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
• Lunch: Enjoy a final meal in Shanghai.
• Afternoon: Transfer to Shanghai International Airport for departure.