Best China Tour: Shanghai, Guilin, Chongqing, Xi'an & Beijing

Itinerary

• Day 1: Shanghai, Arrival

  Ni hao and welcome to Shanghai, China's dazzling metropolis where futuristic skyscrapers meet charming alleyways!

  Your friendly guide will be waiting to whisk you to your hotel. The afternoon is all yours - maybe take a power nap to recharge, or dive straight into the excitement.

  • Shanghai

• Day 2: Shanghai's Iconic Fusion - Where Past Meets Future

  Get ready for a day packed with Shanghai magic! Start at the iconic Bund where past and future collide - snap that perfect skyline selfie! Then it's off to the treasure-filled Shanghai Museum and serene Jade Buddha Temple. Watch Shanghai come alive in Fuxing Park as locals dance, play mahjong, and practice tai chi (feel free to join in!). Our secret highlight? Bugaoli's charming stone archways and a stop to munch on steaming dimsum at a buzzing food market. Crown the day with a jaw-dropping city view from Shanghai Tower's 118th floor - the highest observation deck in the world.

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  • Shanghai

• Day 3: Shanghai - Suzhou

  After breakfast, we're off to "China's Venice" - Suzhou! Get ready to be wowed by the Lingering Garden, where winding covered walkways lead you past shimmering ponds, ancient trees, and towering rockeries that seem like miniature mountains. Then, enjoy a leisurely rickshaw ride through the Old Town, taking in the everyday charm of locals chatting by the canals, before a relaxed stroll along Pingjiang Old Street with its quaint shops and timeless riverside scenery. As night falls, prepare for pure magic at the Master of Nets Garden's enchanting light show - imagine fireflies dancing over ancient ponds.

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  • Suzhou

• Day 4: Tongli - Shanghai

  Today we're trading city vibes for water town charm in dreamy Tongli! Wander cobbled lanes, cruise past Ming-era houses, and explore the peaceful Garden of Seclusion. Don't miss the romantic Triple Bridge and Pearl Pagoda - they look straight out of a fairytale! Return to Shanghai with your camera and heart full of unforgettable memories (transfer included).

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  • Shanghai

• Day 5: Bid Farewell to Shanghai, Fly to Scenic Guilin

  Today, say goodbye to vibrant Shanghai as you board a flight to Guilin, famed for its stunning karst landscapes and poetic scenery. Upon arrival, your local guide will greet you at the airport and transfer you to your hotel. Take some time to relax after the journey or enjoy the rest of the day at your own pace.

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  • Guilin

• Day 6: Li River Dreamscape & Yangshuo Adventure

  Today's the day we cruise down the magical Li River - get those cameras ready! For the next 4 - 5 hours, you'll be floating through a living Chinese painting: emerald waters reflecting those iconic karst mountains, water buffalo chilling in the river, and bamboo groves swaying in the breeze.
  Pro tip: The "Nine Horses Fresco Hill" is our favorite photo spot - see if you can spot all nine horses! After docking in Yangshuo, check into your hotel and hit the West Street on your own- where you can shop for silk scarves, or sip local lychee wine (not included).

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  • Yangshuo

• Day 7: Yangshuo - Chongqing

  Today is all about choosing your own journey through Yangshuo's dreamy countryside - hop on a bike to pedal past emerald rice fields where water buffalo lounge and farmers wave hello, or cruise in air-conditioned comfort as you take in the postcard-perfect scenery of karst mountains and winding rivers.

  After lunch, board a high-speed train for a 5-hour journey to Chongqing, a dynamic city known for its steep hills, spicy cuisine, and stunning night views.

  As night falls, get ready for a sparkling optional adventure:
  Wander through artsy Xiaohao Li, where history meets Instagram-worthy neon lights. Feast your eyes at Changjiahui Danzishi Old Street - the BEST spot to see the Yangtze and Jialing rivers dance together, with the dazzling Raffles City and Grand Theater as their glittery backdrop!

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  • Chongqing

• Day 8: Chongqing's Greatest Hits!

  After breakfast, begin at Eling Park, a tranquil green escape in the heart of the city. From its hilltop pavilions, you can gaze out over the Yangtze and Jialing Rivers weaving through Chongqing's forest of skyscrapers. Continue along the Kuixing Tower Walkway, a wooden path clinging to the hillside, with dramatic river views beneath and tiered cityscapes rising above.

  Next, wander the Shancheng Trail, where stone steps, old walls, and winding alleys capture the unique vertical charm of this "mountain city." Then hop on the light rail for the iconic ride through Liziba Station, an only-in-Chongqing moment as the train glides directly through a residential building.

  Back downtown, the buzz of Jiefangbei surrounds you with modern shops, street snacks, and vibrant city life. As night falls, end at Hongya Cave - a dazzling riverside landmark where stilted houses light up like lanterns, casting neon reflections across the water.

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  • Chongqing

• Day 9: Chongqing - Xi’an

  After breakfast, you'll be transferred to the train station in Chongqing for your high-speed train journey to Xi'an, a ride of approximately 5 to 6 hours through the scenic heartland of China. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the smooth and comfortable ride as the landscape transforms from misty mountain ranges to the historic plains of Shaanxi. Upon arrival at Xi'an Railway Station, your local guide will be waiting at the exit with a warm welcome sign and will escort you to your hotel in a private vehicle. Take the rest of the day to unwind and get ready to explore one of China's most ancient capitals.

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  • Xi'an

• Day 10: Terracotta Warriors

  Step into the mausoleum of China's first emperor and meet over 8,000 life-sized clay soldiers, horses, and chariots - each sculpted with unique facial expressions and intricate armor details. Don't miss the exquisite bronze chariots, once dubbed the "King of Bronze Wares," which offer a rare glimpse into the imperial grandeur and advanced craftsmanship of over 2,000 years ago.

  After this history overload, we'll lighten things up at Muslim Street – explore iconic local delicacies like biangbiang noodles, roujiamo, and refreshing old-style yogurt served in classic ceramic jars.

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  • Xi'an

• Day 11: Home Visit, Xi’an - Beijing

  Start your day with a warm and authentic cultural encounter - visit a local Xi'an family and join them in making traditional Chinese dishes. Learn to fold dumplings, pull hand-made noodles, or cook simple yet flavorful home-style dishes. Then sit down together to enjoy the fruits of your labor.

  In the afternoon, transfer to the train station for your high-speed train to Beijing. Upon arrival, a local guide will meet you and escort you to your hotel for a well-deserved rest.

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  • Beijing

• Day 12: Imperial Wonders - Beijing's Royal Playground

  Start your day at Tiananmen Square, where the vast stone expanse stretches before you like an urban ocean. Head to the Forbidden City, where ancient emperors once ruled! Wind your way through magnificent courtyards and peek into secret chambers where royal drama unfolded centuries ago. The vibrant red walls and golden roofs will have your camera working overtime.

  After lunch, dive into the charm of Beijing's hutongs. Sit back in a traditional rickshaw as you roll through narrow lanes lined with gray-brick houses, and pause to admire classic siheyuan courtyards, timeless gems of old Beijing life.

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  • Beijing

• Day 13: The Great Wall Adventure

  First, skip over to the Temple of Heaven, a blue-tiled masterpiece where emperors once prayed for abundant harvests. In the early mornings, you can still see locals practicing tai chi, dancing, or playing music in the surrounding park, adding a vibrant touch of daily life. This architectural gem will leave you wide-eyed with its perfect symmetry and ingenious design. Don't miss the famous Echo Wall, where even the softest whispers can travel magically - an entertaining way to experience ancient science and culture.

  Then comes the big highlight of the day: a journey to the Mutianyu Great Wall. Known as one of the most scenic yet less crowded sections, it's a dream for both epic photos and peaceful exploration. Glide up by cable car for sweeping views, then wander along ancient watchtowers and winding stone pathways - every step here feels like walking through the pages of history.

  After soaking in the breathtaking mountain vistas, we'll return to Beijing for a well-deserved rest.

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  • Beijing

• Day 14: Farewell, Beijing

  Sleep in or squeeze in some final explorations - your morning is free and easy until your guide picks you up for your airport transfer. We'll make sure you're all set for your flight, armed with memories. Safe travels, and come back soon - China's always got more adventures waiting for you.

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