China Essence Tour: Great Wall, Pandas & More

About This Trip

Tour Route: Beijing - Xi'an - Chengdu - Shanghai

Spend 10 days exploring four major cities in China. Beijing, the capital, dazzles with the elegant symmetry of the Forbidden City. Ascend the Great Wall, a world wonder perched perilously on hilltops. Hop on a bullet train to Xi'an to marvel at the mysterious Terracotta Army, then make a stop in Chengdu to meet adorable giant panda stars. Finally, arrive in Shanghai, a metropolis famed for its skyscrapers, and be captivated by the seamless blend of old and new.

Inclusions

MEALS
Breakfasts: 9, Lunches: 5
ACCOMMODATION
Hotels (9 nights)
TRANSPORT
Air-conditioned vehicle, domestic plane, bullet train
TOUR GUIDE
Escorted by tour guides
SPECIAL ACTIVITIES
1. Major Attractions incl. Forbidden City, Terracotta Warriors, and the Bund.
2. Marvel at the stunning scenery at the Mutianyu Great Wall.
3. Chengdu Panda Research Base adventure to meet the giant pandas.

Price From

US $1921

Per Person, Twin Share

Group Size: Min 4 | Max 16

Ages Requirement: 7+

All travelers under age 18 must be accompanied by an adult

Hotel Rating: 4-Star

Check Dates Make it a private tour

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Itinerary

Day 1: Beijing, Arrival
Start your trip in Beijing, China's capital, where a spectacular holiday awaits you. After checking in at the hotel, you may relax to alleviate jet lag or explore the nearby streets on your own.
Accommodation: Sunworld Hotel or similar (4-star)
- Beijing
Day 2: Beijing, Ramble around Imperial Forbidden City
Begin your day with a visit to the heart of Beijing, the expansive Tiananmen Square. Proceed to the Forbidden City, the imperial residence for centuries, located just beyond Tiananmen Square. Explore the palace complex, delving into the royal family's working and leisure spaces, where you can admire the beautiful clothing and furnishings they once used. Conclude your exploration by ascending to the pavilion atop Jingshan Park, offering a bird's-eye perspective of ancient Beijing and the magnificent Forbidden City.
Accommodation: Sunworld Hotel or similar (4-star)
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- Beijing
Day 3: Beijing, The Great Wall
Today, embark on an adventure to the Great Wall, a breathtaking artificial wonder nestled against rolling mountains. With round-trip cable cars, you will have more time to hike along this iconic structure, marveling at the dense collection of watchtowers and the stunning mountain scenery.
On the way back to your hotel, take a moment to visit the 2008 Olympic venues, including the Bird's Nest and the Water Cube. Finally, explore a reputable pearl store to discover exquisite craftsmanship and unique treasures.
Accommodation: Sunworld Hotel or similar (4-star)
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- Beijing
Day 4: Beijing - Xi'an, High-Speed Train
Start your day immersed in history and local culture by visiting the Temple of Heaven Park. Enjoy the fresh air and appreciate the sacredness of this royal sacrificial site. Participate in Tai Chi, dancing, or even singing with the friendly park-goers as per your interests.
Then, embark on an exciting 5-hour journey to Xi'an via China's high-speed rail. Experience the smooth and timely travel at speeds up to 350 km/h, making your way to one of China's most historically rich cities.
Accommodation: Eastern House Boutique Hotel or similar (4-star)
- B
- Xi'an
Day 5: Xi'an, Marvel at the Legendary Terracotta Army
Get ready to encounter a unique "army" today - the Terracotta Warriors and Horses. These life-size clay figures guarded the tomb of China's first emperor, Qin Shihuang, for over 2,200 years. In the exhibition hall, you can observe not only their military formations but also their attire, facial expressions, and hairstyles. As you visit the nearby Qin Shi Huang Mausoleum Museum, you'll get a close look at two models of bronze chariots from the Qin Dynasty.
The next destination is in the heart of the town, where you can stroll down Muslim Street - a bustling thoroughfare teeming with vendors offering distinctive snacks, souvenirs, and local specialties.
Accommodation: Eastern House Boutique Hotel or similar (4-star)
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- Xi'an
Day 6: Xi'an - Chengdu, by High-Speed Train
Ride the bullet train once again from Xi'an to Chengdu. After a 4-hour journey, your local tour guide and driver will meet you at the exit and transfer you to your hotel for check-in. If you're eager to begin your exploration, take some time to explore the charming Wide and Narrow Alley or Jinli Pedestrian area, where you can discover a variety of culinary specialties.
Accommodation: Dorsett Chengdu or similar (4-star)
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- Chengdu
Day 7: Chengdu, Encounter Cute Pandas
Go to the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding first thing in the early morning, as it's the best time to witness the most active pandas when they typically eat or play.
Visit the historic Wenshu Monastery. As you soak in the serene ambiance of the complex's elegant Chinese-style buildings, make a stop at the teahouse behind the complex to unwind with a cup of local tea and observe the world around you.
In the evening, spice things up by sampling an authentic Sichuan hotpot. For recommendations, consult your guide or add it to your dinner experience.
Accommodation: Dorsett Chengdu or similar (4-star)
- B L
- Chengdu
Day 8: Chengdu - Shanghai, by Airplane
Depart from the laid-back, unhurried pace of Chengdu and catch a flight to the bustling metropolis of Shanghai. Unwind at your hotel or explore the surroundings at your leisure.
Accommodation: Hengshan Garden Hotel or similar (4-star)
- B
- Shanghai
Day 9: Shanghai, Admire the Unique Charm of This City
Welcome to Shanghai, where modernity harmonizes with tradition. Walk along the Bund, resembling a museum of Western architectural styles, contrasting with the contemporary buildings across the Huangpu River. Enter the historic Yu Garden to appreciate pavilions, exquisite rockeries, and beautiful garden features. Explore a silk studio, visit the former French Concession, and discover rare cultural artifacts at the Shanghai Museum.
Accommodation: Hengshan Garden Hotel or similar (4-star)
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- Shanghai
Day 10: Shanghai, Departure
A lovely journey is drawing to a close. Pack your baggage and get to the airport in time. Bring your memories back to your warm home.
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_{The prices listed below for 2025 include a 10% early-bird discount.}

*Can't find your departure date? Book this tour as a private departure.

Important Notes

Notes:
1. No hotel rooms or flights have been reserved so far. We will make the reservation after the deposit payment is received. In case rooms are not available at the hotel foreseen/ desired, alternate rooms or similar categories of hotels will be suggested. Any supplement/ reduction applicable in such cases will be payable accordingly.
2. The above prices are net for end-consumers and not applied to any third party.
3. If the number of passengers is less than 4 people 45 days prior to the tour date, the tour will be canceled, and your deposit will be returned in full. Alternatively, the tour may proceed at an extra cost. Your travel consultant will be in touch to discuss your options. Thank you for your understanding.

Inclusions:
1. Entrance fees for the scenic spots as listed in the itinerary.
2. Meals as specified in the itinerary.
3. Flights or trains as listed in the itinerary.
Flights (economy seat): Chengdu – Shanghai airport tax and fuel fee included.
Trains (second class seat): Beijing – Xi'an, Xi'an – Chengdu
4. Sightseeing or activities as listed in the itinerary.
5. Accommodation with daily breakfast.
* Check-in after 2:00 pm & Check-out before 12:00 pm. Early check-in or late check-out is subject to room availability and may generate additional full-day room charges.
6. Transfers between airports, hotels, and scenic spots while sightseeing in each city or area via air-conditioned vehicle as listed in the itinerary.
7. Bottled water on sightseeing days Odynovo Tours provides our customers with at least one bottle of drinking water per day on the days of sightseeing.
8. Service charges: Our offer includes the planning, handling, operational, and communication charges & current VAT Taxes.

Exclusions:
1. Transfers between the airports and hotels on the arrival/departure days.
2. Flight / Sightseeing / Meals NOT listed in the itinerary.
3. Visa Application & Visa Fee
4. Payment Transaction Fee
5. Gratuities.
6. Travel Insurance: Kindly note that the full coverage travel insurance from your country of origin should be purchased in advance on your own.
7. Personal Expenses such as room service, internet charge, laundry, drink, fax, telephone call, optional activities, etc.
8. Excess Baggage Charge: Extra or overweight luggage will subject to extra cost, please pay to the airlines directly upon checking in at the airport.
9. Optional activities either recommended by tour guides or out of your own interests.
10. In-Room WIFI: Some hotels only have free WIFI available in the lobby and some with free WIFI coverage in room.