Day-by-day Itinerary

1. Day 1: Beijing Arrival (no meal )

   Upon your arrival at Beijing airport / train station, our local driver will pick you up from the exit gate by holding a welcome board with your name and transfer to downtown hotel for checking-in. Free and easy on your arrangement for rest of the day.

   Accommodation: Overnight in Beijing

2. Day 2: Beijing
   Tian'anmen Square, Forbidden City, Temple of Heaven, Summer Palace ( B, L)

   AM: At 08:00, our English speaking tour guide and driver will pick you up from the downtown hotel. You will start today’s tour with the largest city square in the world - Tian'anmen Square. The square has a very important role in China’s history and visiting it is a dream for many generations of Chinese people. So don’t be surprised when you see the square is teeming with Chinese people. You can just wander around the square and take in the rich history.

   Then you will follow your tour guide into the incredible Forbidden City, which was once the royal palace of the Ming and Qing dynasties with more than 70 big and small palaces and over 9,000 rooms. It is one of the largest and most well-preserved ancient wooden structures in the world. Walking into the grand and majestic complex, you will steep in China’s long history and marvel at this architectural masterpiece.

   Noon: Lunch at local restaurant.

   PM: After lunch, move on to Temple of Heaven, famous for its meticulous layout, unique architecture and magnificent decoration, this grand complex was built for the emperors of the Ming and Qing dynasties to offer sacrifices to the heaven and pray for good harvests. It was listed as a world heritage site by UNESCO in 1998. You will definitely marvel at the craftsmanship and learn more historical facts about ancient China.

   Last, come to enjoy the royal garden in Summer Palace. With an area of 2.9 square kilometers, this palace was the best place where the emperors of the Qing Dynasty spent their summers. Here you will enjoy the amazing lake view, explore the exquisite long corridor, appreciate precious cultural relics, step on the elegant stone bridge, see high old trees, etc. You will love every minute here with so much to see. You also can take the option of boat ride to enjoy the stunning Kunming Lake ( optional).

   Accommodation: Overnight in Beijing

   

3. Day 3: Beijing
   Jinshanling Great Wall ( B, L, D)

   AM: Today would be the highlight of your Beijing tour as you will be hiking to Jinshanling Great Wall! Driving around 2.5 hours from your hotel, you’ll arrive at this amazing place.

   Jinshanling Great Wall, located in luanping county, Hebei province, is adjacent to Miyun district, Beijing, which is 130 kilometers (80 miles) away from downtown Beijing. It was built in the Ming dynasty, and it is connected to Simatai Great Wall in the east and Gubeikou Great Wall in the west. Nowadays, it is regarded as “the essence of the Great Wall”, and enjoys great reputation all over the world.

   If hiking is too much for you, there is round way cable car available ( optional ).

   Noon: Lunch at local restaurant.

   PM: After the great hiking, drive back to Beijing city and enjoy the delicious duck dinner in Quanjude.

   Accommodation: Overnight in Beijing

   

4. Day 4: Beijing - Zhangjiajie by Flight
   Beihai Park, Shichahai scenic Area, Siheyuan, Yonghe Palace ( B, L)

   AM: Today’s first stop will be the charming Beihai Park, which is absolutely a nice place to relax and enjoy yourself! It is one of the oldest, most complete, most comprehensive and representative royal gardens in China. You will have lots of opportunities to take great photos of the lovely lake and historic buildings. There are also boats available if you like ( optional).

   Beijing Hutongs are full of history which attracts many worldwide tourists! Today your tour guide will take you to feel the charm of the hutongs in Shichahai scenic Area. Taking a rickshaw to ride along the ancient alleys, you will know more about the background information of the Hutongs, experience authentic old Beijing life, and witness the blending of tradition and modernity.

   After the exciting Hutong exploration, come to a local family who living in the Hutong and enjoy a homemade lunch with the friendly family. It will be a great chance for you to visit a real courtyard house - Siheyuan and and have a glimpse of the local people’s lifestyle.

   Noon: Lunch at local resident's home.

   PM: Later, continue to Lama Temple, also called Yonghe Palace, was built in 1694 by Emperor Kangxi of the Qing Dynasty for his fourth son who later ascended to the throne and became Emperor Yongzheng, and the palace was converted to a temple during the reign of Emperor Qianlong. Here you will feast your eyes on the splendid architecture, witness the 18-meter-high statue of Maitreya carved out of a single white sandalwood tree, and see lots of people praying to the deities.

   Last, transfer to airport for evening flight to Zhangjiajie. Upon arrival, our local driver will be waiting for you the exit gate by holding a welcome board with your name and transfer to local hotel for check-in. Have a good rest for tomorrow!

   Accommodation: Overnight in Zhangjiajie Wulingyuan Area

   

5. Day 5: Zhangjiajie
   Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, Yellow Stone Village, Golden Whip Stream, Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon, Zhangjiajie Glass Bridge ( B, L )

   Today, you’ll start your adventure with Zhangjiajie National Forest Park. It’s the first national forest park in China and was included in World Natural Heritage List in 1992 for the queer forest of quartz sandstone peaks. You will see the pillars rise hundreds of meters into the sky, stroll along tranquil valleys and feel rejuvenated by the fresh air.

   Then, head to Yellow Stone Village. With an altitude of more than 1200 meters, it’s the largest and best observation deck to overlook the quartz sandstone peak forest. You can hear the story of Zhang Liang being saved by Huang Shi from your guide while you are walking, and you may come across the cute monkeys on the way.

   After that, move on to Golden Whip Stream, one of the most beautiful sites in Zhangjiajie. The stream winds its way through the hills and valleys and got its name because of passing by the Golden Whip Rock. Just listen to the murmurs of the stream, stroll along the valley and stop to watch the fish swimming in the crystal clear water.

   After the relaxing hiking, take the sightseeing bus to exit the forest park and drive around 40 minutes to Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon. Move on to challenge yourself at the longest and highest Zhangjiajie Glass Bridge in the world with a length of 430 meters. You can have a panoramic view of Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon while walking on the transparent glass floor. You may be scared to step on the bridge at first, but once you take the first step, you will enjoy the magnificent view of flying waterfalls, lush forests, running streams.

   Accommodation: Overnight in Zhangjiajie Wulingyuan Area

   

6. Day 6: Zhangjiajie - Xian by Flight
   Tianzi Mountain, Yuanjiajie Scenic Area, Hallelujah Mountain, Bailong Elevator ( B, L )

   AM: Today’s first stop is Tianzi Mountain. There is a saying that you will not want to see any other mountains after visiting Tianzi Mountain. One of the spectacular sights is the sea of clouds after rain if you are lucky. You will witness rugged rocks and a forest of stone peaks which looks like a group of warriors listening to orders.

   After that, continue to explore Yuanjiajie Scenic Area, the inspiration for Hallelujah Mountain in the super famous movie Avatar. You also can experience Bailong Elevator, the highest and heaviest outdoor elevator in the world. You will be amazed by the speed of the elevator, only 1 minute and 58 seconds up to Yuanjiajie. When you step out of the elevator, a magical landscape painting will unfold in front of you. The massive quartz-sandstone pillars are just towering over you or next to you.

   Finish all the activities, transfer to Zhangjiajie airport for evening flight to Xian. Upon arrival, our local driver will be waiting for you at the exit gate by holding a welcome board with your name, and transfer to local hotel for check-in.

   Accommodation: Overnight in Xian

   

7. Day 7: Xian
   Terracotta Warriors and Horses, Huaqing Palace, Bell and Drum Tower Square, Muslim Quarter ( B, L)

   AM: Your Xian exploration begins with world’s heritage Terracotta Warriors and Horses. Known as “the Eighth Wonders of the World”, it was found by four local farmers while drilling a well in 1974. Now it has turned into one of the most important attractions in China and the No.1 attractive site in Xi’an. The museum includes Pit 1(the largest pit), Pit 2, Pit 3, and the exhibition hall of the chariots and horses. You will stay in the museum for 2-3 hours. Listening to the explanation from the expert tour guide, you will learn the hidden story of those live-sized sculptures and history of their owner: First Emperor of Qin who is also the first emperor of China.

   Noon: Lunch at local restaurant.

   PM: After lunch, continue your visit to Huaqing Palace which used to be the royal bathing spot in the Tang Dynasty and here you will learn the moving love story of the Emperor Xuanzong and his concubine Lady Yang.

   Later, move on to  Bell and Drum Tower Square, which locates in the very center of the city and is considered as the symbol of this old capital. Walking forward, you will come to Muslim Quarter where you will find many special local products and authentic local snacks. You can enjoy preserved meat, casserole, various noodles, and purchase some Terracotta Warriors imitation as souvenirs.

   Accommodation: Overnight in Xian

   

8. Day 8: Xian - Chengdu by High-speed Train
   Big Wild Goose Pagoda, Ancient City Wall ( B, L )

   As one of the most famous historical cities, Xian has lots of interesting places to go! Today you will explore the must-see sights in Xian downtown area.

   AM: The first site will be Big Wild Goose Pagoda. On the way to the attraction spot, your guide will introduce the history and culture of this ancient city for you to catch a glimpse of reason why so many well-known relics were discovered on this land. Big Wild Goose Pagoda was originally built to hold Buddhist sutra and figurines of the Buddha that Xuanzang brought back from India in Tang Dyansty, 652 A.D. Now there is a big square divided into North Square and South Square, surrounding the Big Wild Goose Pagoda. The design of the buildings and statues is in Tang style, showing people the ever glory of that great time. It’s busier in the evening when many activities with Tang elements held by local amateur.

   Afterwords, continue your visit to Ancient City Wall. It is the most complete preserved and the largest city wall in China, which was built for the military defense in the ancient time. Since it is cycling the city, visitors can ride a bike around the city wall ( optional).

   Noon: Lunch at local restaurant.

   PM: Later, taking high-speed train to Chengdu. Upon arrival, our local driver will be waiting for you at the exit gate by holding a welcome board with your name, and transfer to local hotel for check-in.

   Accommodation: Overnight in Chengdu

   

9. Day 9: Chengdu - Guilin by Flight
   Chengdu Giant Panda Breeding Research Base, Renmin Park, Kuanzhai Alley ( B, L )

   AM: Today you will visit the cute pandas in Chengdu Giant Panda Breeding Research Base, which is well known for the protection and breeding of the endangered giant pandas which are unique to China. The base is definitely a highlight for most visitors to Chengdu. There are adorable pandas everywhere. You can watch them eating bamboo, playing with each other, and of course sleeping. Your tour guide will navigate you through the huge area, share some information about the pandas, and help you take amazing photos.

   Noon: Lunch at local restaurant.

   PM: Afterwards,  come to enjoy some relaxing tea time in Renmin Park. Renmin Park is a perfect place to do people watching. Here you can enjoy a cup of tea in a nice tea house and watch local people while away the time with various activities such as playing cards, doing tai chi, playing mahjong, dancing, and napping.

   Later, follow your guide to explore the local food and culture in Kuanzhai Alley, which has a long history and can date back to the Qing Dynasty. Now the old alleys have been converted into one of the top attractions in Chengdu. Strolling along the streets, you still can see many well-preserved Qing Dynasty buildings. In addition to appreciating the traditional architecture, you also can savor some local delicacies. As a UNESCO City of Gastronomy, Chengdu will surprise you with its delicious food.

   Last, taking evening flight to Guilin. Upon arrival, our local driver will be waiting for you at the exit gate by holding a welcome board with your name, and transfer to local hotel for check-in.

   Accommodation: Overnight in Guilin

   

10. Day 10: Guilin
    Longji Rice Terraces, Long Hair Show ( B, L)

    AM: After breakfast, drive to the painting-like Longji Rice Terraces, which has thousands of years’ history. It is hard to believe that the minority people were able to bring the remote mountains under cultivation by the slash-and-burn method over 2,000 years ago. Now the rice terraces not only feed the local people but also provide the people around the world a retreat from everyday life.

    Arrive at Longji Terraces Scenic Area, you will enjoy the one-of-a-kind Long Hair Show performed by Yao Minority women in Huangluo village, which was awarded the “World’s Longest Hair Village” by Guinness World Records. Famous for their long and shiny hair, the women of Huangluo cut their hair only once in their lives upon turning 18. In addition to that, you can also have a glimpse of the Zhuang and Yao minority people’s lifestyle through this visit.

    Noon: Lunch at local restaurant.

    PM: After enjoying the spectacular rice terraces, the fragrant bamboo-tube-cooked rice will be waiting for you. The soaked rice is put inside a fresh bamboo tube, and the mouth of the tube is plugged with fresh leaves. The rice will be ready after cooking over a fire for about half an hour. When you cut open the bamboo tube by using a knife, the delicate fragrance will greet your nostrils.

    Finish the sightseeing, transfer back to your hotel.

    Accommodation: Overnight in Guilin

    

11. Day 11: Guilin - Yangshuo by Cruise
    Li River Cruise, Yangshuo West Street ( B, L)

    AM:Today is the highlight of your Guilin tour as you will embark on a ship to cruise down the picturesque Li River!

    Taking the cruise on the Li River, you will admire the picturesque scenery of this land with a harmonious combination of the green hills, rivers, lakes and fields. But its beauty is not like a still painting, it’s alive when vivid – brisk bamboo rafts leaving wrinkles on the water and cormorants hovering under the working fishermen… Our guide will uncover the hidden history and culture behind the natural screen before you during your cruise. You will learn from the local expert about how the city formed and developed and how local people manage their life along the famous Li River.

    Friendly Tips: The Li River Cruise takes around 4 hours, and you will be staying on the boat to enjoy the scenery for most time, so 3-star boat as included would be  adequate according to most tourists’ experience.

    Noon: You are suggested to have a good breakfast at your hotel and take some snack as there will be only simple box lunch be provided on the boat.

    PM: After the 4 hours’ cruise, you will disembark at Yangshuo. Follow your guide to explore the famous Yangshuo West Street to admire the antique buildings and local crafts, hanging out in bars and coffee shops, and try some delicious local snacks.

    Last, transfer to Yangshuo local hotel for overnight.

    

    Optional night activity: If you are looking for a worth-to-visit activity tonight, the wonderful Impression Show of Liu Sanjie will be waiting for you! The stage is set on the Li River, most of 600 performers are fishermen from nearby villages. Through this amazing show, you will know the legendary Liu Sanjie and learn something about Zhuang people's culture.

    Accommodation: Overnight in Yangshuo

12. Day 12: Guilin - Shanghai by Flight
    Reed Flute Cave, Elephant Trunk Hill ( B, L)

    AM: After breakfast, take all your belongs and check out the hotel as you will be departing Guilin at end of the tour.

    Driving around 1.5 hours from Yangshuo to Guilin city, start your exploration with the amazing Reed Flute Cave. The cave got its name because there were reeds at its entrance and people can make flutes by using the reeds. Walking into the cave, you will be surrounded by all kinds of stalactites, stalagmites, stone columns, flowers, and curtains created by water erosion and carbonate deposition day after day and year after year.

    After that, move on to the Elephant Trunk Hill. The hill got its name from the shape of an elephant sipping water by the riverside. You will see a round opening between the elephant’s trunk and legs, and it has a beautiful name of Water Moon Cave. You can take beautiful pictures to record the pleasant time at this extraordinary place.

    Noon: Lunch at local restaurant.

    PM: Last, taking afternoon flight to Shanghai. Upon arrival, our local driver will be waiting for you at the exit gate by holding a welcome board with your name, and transfer to local hotel for check-in.

    Accommodation: Overnight in Shanghai

    

13. Day 13: Shanghai
    Yuyuan Garden, Yuyuan Market, Shanghai Museum, People Square, Former French Concession, Shanghai World Financial Center, the Bund ( B, L)

    AM: At 08:30, our English speaking tour guide and driver will pick you up from the downtown hotel. Your exploration in Shanghai begins with the famous Yuyuan Garden, which is a representative of classical Chinese gardens with elegant pavilions, old bridges, artistic rockeries, small ponds, etc. It was originally built by Pan Yunduan in 1559 during the Ming Dynasty for his parents to enjoy their old age in peace. The garden has gone through a lot in the over 400 years’ history. It was once deserted at the death of Pan Yunduan, restored by new owners, badly damaged during the Opium War, and reopened in 1961 after a lot of repairs.

    Nearby is the lively Yuyuan Market, wonder around here you can get everything from traditional Chinese crafts like chopsticks, fans, and pottery to local delicacies such as steamed buns, crab shell cake, and pork chop with rice cakes. Don’t forget to haggle for a better price.

    After that, move on your visit to Shanghai Museum ( closed on every Monday ). The museum houses millions of collections and especially features bronze wares, porcelain works, paintings and calligraphy works.  Finish the exploration of history, stroll on People Square to have a glimpse of the daily life of the locals. The square now is most famous for its match-making corner where parents try to seek partners for their children.

    Noon: Lunch at local restaurant.

    PM: Afterwords, come to the Former French Concession, the largest and most prosperous concession among all the four French concessions in old China. From 1849 to 1943, this area was ruled by France for almost a century. Here your tour guide will reveal a history of humiliation and you will see many old beautiful European style buildings which look very charming hidden in the shade of French parasol trees.

    Next stop will be Shanghai World Financial Center. It is said that the building looks like a bottle opener from outside. You will have chance to see for yourself and go up to the 100th floor to have a marvelous panoramic view of the Huangpu River. Walking on the 55-meter long transparent sightseeing corridor will be an exciting experience.

    Last, enjoy your sightseeing in one of the landmarks of Shanghai - the Bund. You may not know that the area used to be a desolate tidal flat, but turned into British settlement and Shanghai’s financial center in the late Qing Dynasty. It is the perfect place to take great photos of amazing skyline. Make sure to bring your camera!

    Accommodation: Overnight in Shanghai

    

14. Day 14: Shanghai Departure ( B )

    Free and easy on your own until the pickup time for departure. Our driver will meet you at the hotel lobby and transfer to Shanghai airport / train station to see you off.

    Accommodation: N/A