17-Day Yangtze River Cruise with Panda & Tibet Visit
Tour Overview
Through our carefully designed 17-day trip to China, immerse yourself in some of China’s iconic city landscapes, profound cultural experiences, and unparalleled natural wonders.
The itinerary includes China’s Golden Triangle cities ā Beijing, Xi’an, and Shanghai. You will be guided to visit the world heritage sites including the Forbidden City, the Great Wall, the Terracotta Warriors and the landmarks of the metropolis. Tibet, the “roof of the world”, is a holy place for many pilgrims all over the world. Visit the Potala Palace, the highest palace in the world, witness monks debating scriptures, and experience the spirit of Jokhang Temple with pilgrims. Next is the highly anticipated panda tour in Chengdu. The city is renowned worldwide for its spicy Sichuan cuisine and adorable giant pandas. You will observe the daily activities of these creatures up close at the largest panda base.
After our Chengdu tour, we head to Chongqing, the gateway city of China’s Yangtze River cruise tour. You will travel through the legendary Three Gorges, admiring the towering cliffs on both sides, the emerald green river water, and ancient civilization on a comfortable modern cruise ship. After a 3-day and 3-night Yangtze River cruise, you will finally take the China high-speed rail from Yichang to Shanghai, the “Magic City”, to catch the magnificent skyline. In short, during this 17 day China tour, you will discover a rich and colorful side of China.
Travel destinations: Beijing, Xiāan, Lhasa, Chengdu, Yangtze River, Shanghai
Suitable for: First-timers, Families, Culture & Nature Lovers
Tour type: Private
Highlights of this tour:
- In the midst of Beijing, going into the heart of history, one must visit the Forbidden City, standing erstwhile as home to emperors and now filled with treasures of a thousand years.
- Hiking on the walls at Mutianyu brings panoramic views of hills and valleys, showing with grandeur the might of the Great Wall.
- In Xian, face thousands of life-sized Terracotta Warriors, each one distinctively decorated.
- Get the feel of Tibetan Buddhism in Lhasa, Tibet with the majestic Potala Palace, sacred Jokhang Temple.
- At Chengdu, the chance of watching giant pandas and red pandas closely can be seen closely at the biggest and most renowned breeding and research center.
- Sail through the beautiful Three Gorges, then have a quiet float through the rustic Shennv Stream in a smaller boat.
- At last, the grand Shanghai: where new confronts old-from shopping on bustling Nanjing Road to admiring the skyline at the Bund.
Day-by-day Itinerary
- Day 1: Beijing Arrival
A warm hello to you! When you arrive in Beijing, our local driver will meet you at the airport exit and send you to the city center hotel.
After you check in, take some time to rest and relax. If you feel up to it, you can take a walk and look around the area near your hotel.
Meal: N/A
Accommodation: in Beijing
- Day 2: City Highlights in BeijingWalk through the Heart of the Old Capital City, See Its Most Important Sights
After meeting with your private guide in the morning, she/he will take you on a deep exploration of Beijing's history. The first stop is Tiananmen Square, the world's largest city square that has witnessed many significant historical moments.
Then step into the adjacent Palace Museum (Forbidden City). This UNESCO World Heritage site was once the imperial palace of the Ming and Qing dynasties. You will be amazed by its magnificent buildings, exquisite decorations, and precious cultural relics. Before lunch, if time permits, we climb up to Jingshan Park where you can take a panoramic view of the Forbidden City.
In the afternoon, we move to the Summer Palace. The largest existing royal garden in China was once a summer palace during the Qing Dynasty. Strolling along the long corridors and pavilions, experience the garden art of "Though man-made, it appears as if wrought by nature". If you are interested, you can take a boat ride on Kunming Lake at your own expense. Experience the artistic conception of "boating on the emerald waters, one glides as if immersed in a living painting". If you happen to come here in mid to late June to early July, you will witness blooming lotus flowers on Kunming Lake.
In the evening, you can optionally watch a Chinese Kung Fu ShowĀ where skilled performers demonstrate martial arts techniques and acrobatics (extra charge).
Meal: Breakfast + Lunch
Accommodation: in Beijing
Forbidden City View from Jingshan Park - Day 3: Beijingās Great Wall HikeTake a Hiking Trip on the Great Wall, Enjoy the Amazing Views along the Way
Today's itinerary will take you to visit one of the new seven wonders of the world - the Mutianyu Great Wall. As the best preserved essence section of the Great Wall of the Ming Dynasty, Mutianyu winding in the Yanshan Mountains is famous for its more than 20 densely distributed towers and four distinct seasons of natural landscape.
After breakfast, it takes about 1.5 hours by car to reach this ancient military fortress. When sightseeing, in order to save energy, you can choose to take the cable car directly to the Great Wall (those with abundant energy can climb it on foot for 40 minutes). Strolling on the city walls that have weathered 650 years of "wind and rain", one can not only admire the original appearance of military facilities up close, but also enjoy the beautiful scenery of the rolling mountains. Your guide will explain more about the construction story to you.
After the visit, we head to the Sacred Way, which leads to the Thirteen Tombs of Ming Dynasty. There you can enjoy the complex stone statues and the magnificent memorialĀ archway. On your way back to Beijing, you will pass by the iconic venues of the 2008 Beijing Olympics, the Bird's Nest and the Water Cube.
Meal: Breakfast + Lunch
Accommodation: in Beijing
A family hiking on the Mutianyu Great Wall - Day 4: Beijing to Xian by High-speed TrainExperience Beijingerās Traditional Lifestyle in Hutong
This morning, we will take you to visit the World Cultural Heritage Temple of Heaven. This altar, first built during the Yongle period of the Ming Dynasty, was once a sacred place for Ming and Qing emperors to hold sacrificial ceremonies to the heavens. Strolling through the largest sacrificial architecture complex in China, you will be amazed by the gilded roof and sky blue glazed tiles of the Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests. Nowadays, this place has become a cultural activity center for Beijing citizens, where daily life scenes such as morning exercises of Tai Chi and calligraphy can be seen everywhere.
In the afternoon, we will go deep into Beijing's hutongs and take traditional rickshaw to shuttle through the alleys with blue bricks and gray tiles. These āliving museumsā, composed of courtyard communities, fully preserve the lifestyle of old Beijing. You have the opportunity to visit a resident's family and gain a deeper understanding of hutong culture.
It's time to say goodbye to Beijing. The driver will take you to the train station and take the high-speed train to Xi'an. After arrival, the driver in Xi'an will pick you up and take you to a hotel in the city center for check-in.
Meal: Breakfast + Lunch
Accommodation: in Xi'an
The Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests in Temple of Heaven - Day 5: Terracotta Warriors TourDiscover the City's 2,000-Year Story as You Visit Terracotta Army
After breakfast, your guide will wait for you in your hotel lobby. Then we drive 1 hour to the eighth wonder of the world - the Terracotta Warriors and Horses. Here lies a dormant 'underground legion' consisting of over 8000 life sized terracotta figurines, including infantry, cavalry, chariots, and more. They have silently guarded the tomb of China's first emperor for over 2200 years. Between the three main pits, you will discover several facts: each warrior's facial expression is different, precise ancient military arrays, and exquisitely crafted bronze weapons.
After having lunch near the scenic area, we go back to Xi'an city to visit the Bell and Drum Tower Square. These twin ancient buildings, dating back to the Ming Dynasty, were once the timekeeping center of ancient Xi'an. Now it has become a cultural landmark of this city.
Then visit the Great Mosque. This Islamic temple, founded in the Tang Dynasty, perfectly blends the characteristics of Chinese pavilions and Arabic dome architecture. The adjacent Muslim Quarter is a vibrant food museum. Recommended food to try here are Roujiamo, soup dumplings, Pita bread soaked in Lamb Soup (representative of Xi'an cuisine), and sour and spicy appetizing Liangpi.
In the evening, you can choose to watch the Tang Palace Dance Show (at your own expense). Through palace music and dances, combined with a special dumpling banquet, you will be taken back to the prosperous era of the Tang Dynasty.
Meal: Breakfast + Lunch
Accommodation: in Xiāan
Biang Biang Noodles in the Muslim Quarter - Day 6: Xian City SightseeingSee Top Sights like Ancient Pagodas and Museums. Enjoy a Fun Bike Ride on City Wall
Starting a new day of exploration in Xi'an from Daci'en Temple. This Tang Dynasty royal temple is famous for its Big Wild Goose Pagoda. The 64-meter-high seven-storey square brick tower (with additional ticket purchase for climbing) is not only a place for Xuanzang to translate Buddhist scriptures, but also overlooks the skyline of Xi'an city.
Later, we transfer to the Xi'an Museum (which houses 370,000 cultural relics) and the Small Wild Goose Pagoda scenic area. This Tang Dynasty brick pagoda with dense eaves is listed as one of the Eight Scenic Spots of Guanzhong due to its "Morning Bell of Wild Goose Pagoda".
After lunch, take a stroll along the most complete Ming Dynasty City Wall in China (13.74 kilometers in length). You can choose to walk or ride a bike (with rental points located at four main city gates and on-site payment) for sightseeing. Standing on the 12 meter high battlements, one can touch the blue bricks from 600 years ago, but overlook the city's blend of ancient and modern styles.
In the evening, you can go to the North Square of the Big Wild Goose Pagoda by yourself to enjoy the largest music fountain in Asia (with a performance time of 20 minutes) and the antique architectural complex light show of Grand Tang Dynasty Ever-Bright City.
Meal: Breakfast + Lunch
Accommodation: in Xiāan
Bike Riding on the Xian City Wall - Day 7: Xiāan to Lhasa by Flight
After breakfast, your driver will take you to the airport and fly to Lhasa, the capital of Tibet, the roof of the world (with an average altitude of more than 4000 meters)! After arriving at Lhasa Gongga Airport, the local guide and a driver will pick you up and take you to a hotel in the city center. Along the way, you may see the scenery of the Lhasa River.
Health Tips:
- To reduce or avoid altitude sickness, it is recommended that you avoid vigorous exercise on the day of arrival.
- Don't take a shower to avoid catching a cold. Drink plenty of water and maintain sufficient sleep.
Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation: in Lhasa
The views along the Lhasa River - Day 8: Lhasaās EssenceExplore the Tibetan Buddhist Holy Sites
Today, you will embark on a spiritual and cultural journey in Lhasa. After breakfast, we will first head to the Potala Palace, a world cultural heritage site. Strolling through the palace fort at an altitude of 3750 meters, you will visit the political area of the White House and the religious hall of the Red Palace, admiring precious art treasures such as murals, thangkas, and Buddha statues.
In the afternoon, we transfer to the Tibetan Buddhist holy site of Jokhang Temple, where a 12-year-old statue of Shakyamuni Buddha, brought by Princess Wencheng, is enshrined. You can observe the devout prayer ceremony of the believers quietly (please note that photography is prohibited in the temple). Then take a walk along the winding road of Barkhor Street. Integrate into the local team of believers and experience the most authentic religious life in Lhasa. You can also purchase unique Tibetan handicrafts here.
Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation: in Lhasa
Potala Palace with White House and Red House - Day 9: Temple Visit in LhasaWitness the Scene of Monks Engaging in Buddhist Debates
Today's trip to Lhasa will take you to Norbulingka Park, the Dalai Lama's Summer Palace. Boasting towering ancient trees and the elegant pavilions, the park blends the exquisite design of Tibetan architecture and Chinese gardens.
Then go to Drepung Temple, one of the largest temples in Tibet. This ancestral temple of the Gelug School, founded in 1416, is built along the mountain. The layered white buildings are home to a large collection of exquisite murals, embroidered thangkas, and gilded Buddha statues.
In the afternoon, we will visit Sera Monastery, a 600 year old temple renowned for its unique tradition of debating. You will have the opportunity to witness the scene of monks engaging in Buddhist debates through clapping, questioning, and other methods. The temple also houses tens of thousands of Buddha statues and colorful religious murals, allowing you to fully experience the profound heritage of Tibetan Buddhism.
Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation: in Lhasa
The monks are debating in Sera Monastery - Day 10: Lhasa to Chengdu by Flight
After breakfast, say goodbye to Lhasa and then catch a flight to Chengdu, the home of giant pandas. Upon arrival, a local driver will send you to the hotel in the downtown area. The rest of the day is free for you to relax or sample delicious Chengduās food.
Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation: in Chengdu
- Day 11: Chengdu Panda VisitObserve up close the Adorable Pandas, Learn about Facts about Giant Pandas
Today we will take you to experience the most distinctive culture of Chengdu. After meeting with your guide, she or he will first take you to the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding. This globally renowned panda research and conservation center has over 260 "national treasures" of different ages. Strolling along the paths hidden in the bamboo forest, observe up close the adorable pandas eating bamboo and playing around. Learn about the conservation knowledge of these rare animals at the Panda Museum.
Later, visit the Wenshu Monastery, which was founded in the Sui Dynasty. This thousand-year-old temple is adorned with ancient trees in tranquil courtyards. Also, you can see exquisite bronze and jade Buddha statues.
In the afternoon, head to People's Park, the favorite leisure place among Chengdu people. Experience authentic street life amidst the fragrance of Lidded Bowl Tea, and witness the locals dancing and playing traditional music. Walking around Jinli Old Street in the evening. This Ming and Qing style commercial street gathers various traditional handicrafts and specialty snacks.
In the evening, choose to taste the spicy and delicious Sichuan hotpot, or enjoy the magical Sichuan Opera Face Changing Show (at your own expense).
Meal: Breakfast + Lunch
Accommodation: in Chengdu
A Lovely Panda at the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding - Day 12: Chengdu to Chongqing by High-speed TrainFeel the Charm of the Chinaās ā8D Magic Cityā ā Chongqing
After breakfast, take the high-speed train from Chengdu East Station and it will take about 2 hours to reach the mountainous city of Chongqing. The local guide will first take you to visit Ciqikou Ancient Town, which was founded in the Song Dynasty. This neighborhood with a history of thousands of years has fully preserved the bluestone slab road and stilted buildings from the Ming and Qing dynasties. You can taste authentic Chongqing noodles, Chen's Fried Dough Twist and other special snacks, as well as exquisite Sichuan embroidery, paper cuttings and other handicrafts.
Then go to the Three Gorges Museum. 280000 precious collections vividly show the history of civilization development in the Yangtze River Basin. Visit Hongya Cave in the evening. The 11 storey stilted house, built along the mountain, integrates dining, shopping, and sightseeing. When night falls, the dazzling lights decorate this place beautifully (reminder: the best viewing time in summer is after 19:30, and in winter it is after 18:30).
Finally, board the cruise ship at Chaotianmen Dock. (boarding time is approximately 18:00-20:00).
Meal: Breakfast + Lunch
Accommodation: on the Cruise Ship
The night view of the Hongya Cave - Day 13: Yangtze River CruiseSurround Yourself with Beautiful Yangtze River Views
The Yangtze River cruise journey starts with a variety of activities. Participate in a Tai Chi class to experience this traditional Chinese martial art. Tai Chi is an important representative of Chinese traditional culture, originating from ancient Chinese philosophical thoughts, emphasizing both internal and external cultivation. Through slow, continuous movements and breathing exercises, it aims to achieve physical and inner well-being.
Afterward, you can attend a lecture on the history and culture of the Yangtze River region to learn more about the area. Following that, enjoy the beautiful natural scenery on the deck with a relaxing morning coffee.
In the afternoon, take a shore excursion to Shibaozhai Pagoda, a magnificent 12-storey tower built against the mountains, at a height of 56 meters. You will admire the twelve zodiac sculptures, the white jade bas-reliefs telling the story of Guan Yu (a general deified as God of War) during the Three Kingdoms period, and the oldest existing building in Shibaozhai, the Heavenly Kings Hall.
If interested today, you can choose to pay an additional fee to visit the Fengdu Ghost City, known for its bizarre folklore and distinctive architecture.
Meal: Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner
Accommodation: on the Cruise Ship
Enjoy a relaxing Yangtze River Cruise - Day 14: Essence of Three GorgesTake in the Grand Sights of the Three Gorges and Shennv Creek
Today we will start the essence of the cruise. The ship will take you through the Three Gorges of the Yangtze River, which is listed on The World Heritage List - the majestic and precipitous Qutang Gorge, the deep and beautiful Wu Gorge, and Xiling Gorge, which is full of beaches and water. Along the way, you will appreciate the magnificent paintings depicted in ancient Chinese poetry.
We will arrange for you to transfer to a small boat to visit the Shennv Stream. Experience the pristine canyon scenery up close in a clear and bottomless stream. You can also enjoy the song and dance performances brought by the Tujia people.
After returning to the ship, you can choose to disembark and visit White Emperor City, which was once a place where literary figures such as Li Bai and Du Fu left behind masterpieces. Standing on the ancient city wall, you can have a panoramic view of the magnificent Three Gorges of the Yangtze River.
A Captain's Farewell Party will be held in the evening, bringing a perfect conclusion to this unforgettable trip to the Three Gorges.
Meal: Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner
Accommodation: on the Cruise Ship
Take a smaller boat on Shennv Stream - Day 15: Yichang to Shanghai by High-speed TrainAdmire the Biggest Water Project on Earth up close
After breakfast, pack your bags and check out. Be guided to visit the world-famous Three Gorges Dam, the largest hydroelectric power station in the world. Explore the dam up close at the Tangziling and learn about its impressive engineering feats. If you happen to visit on a clear day, you may see a beautiful rainbow amid the mist created by the massive waves.
Disembark at Maoping Port, and then the cruise company will arrange a bus to take you to Yichang Three Gorges Center Cruise Terminal. From there, a local guide will escort you to Yichang East Railway Station. Catch a high-speed train to Shanghai.
Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation: in Shanghai
The majestic Three Gorges Dam Project - Day 16: Shanghai City ExplorationDiscover the City Where Old Stories and New Life Come Together
The first stop of your Shanghai trip is the Shanghai Museum. This art hall, founded in 1952, houses 140,000 national treasure level cultural relics, ranging from Shang and Zhou bronze to Ming and Qing calligraphy and painting.
Then walk into Yu Garden. This Ming Dynasty Jiangnan-style garden interprets traditional gardening art with more than 40 landscapes such as the Nine Curve Bridge and the Jade Linglong Rockery. The adjacent Yuyuan Market allows you to taste Xiaolongbao and other special Shanghai foods.
In the afternoon, climb to the top of the "bottle opener" shaped Shanghai Tower and enjoy a 360 degree view of the magnificent scenery on both sides of the Pujiang River from the 546 meter high observation hall. Continue to stroll along Nanjing Road, known as the "First Commercial Street of China," where the Gothic Peace Hotel and modern shopping centers intertwine in time and space.
Walk to the Bund, Exhibition of World Architecture, at dusk. Gothic spires and Baroque domes outline a unique skyline in the twilight. At night, you can take a cruise on Huangpu River to enjoy the dazzling night view of Lujiazui and feel the modern charm of "Oriental Paris".
Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation: in Shanghai
Enjoy a Huangpu River Night Cruise - Day 17: Departure from ShanghaiAppreciate Unique Shikumen Buildings (Well-preserved)
At the end of your 17-day China tour with Yangtze River cruise, why not visit Shanghai's most artistic Tianzifang Creative Park. This art district, transformed from the old alleyway of Shikumen, perfectly blends tradition and modernity. Strolling through winding alleys, you can appreciate well preserved buildings, and explore artist studios, independent design shops, and specialty cafes.
Finally, your tour guide will kindly escort you to the airport. Safe travels!
Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation: N/A
Tianzifang, transformed from the old alleyway of Shikumen
Tour Price ($=USD)
From $2879 P.P, which is based on a private tour for 2 people. The price varies depending on the activity, number of people, travel date, and selected hotel.
