11 Days China Group Tour to Beijing Xi’an Guilin Shanghai

Day-by-day Itinerary

1. Day 1: Arrival in Beijing

   Welcome to Beijing, the starting point of your 11-day China small group tour! Your driver will greet you at the exit of the arrival hall by holding a welcome sign and transfer to your Beijing downtown hotel. Before getting off the plane, please double-check your belongings to ensure you have collected all your stuff. The rest of the day is for your own arrangement. If you need any suggestions on your free time, we will be very happy to help you.

   Vehicle

   Beijing
2. Day 2: Beijing City Exploration
   Explore Imperial Palace, Tibetan Buddhist Temple, and Sacrificial Complex

   After breakfast, your guide and driver will pick you up at your hotel lobby in the morning and start the tour with Tiananmen Square, the heart and symbol of Beijing and the largest city square in the world. The spacious square has been used for many public celebrations, ceremonies, and demonstrations for over a hundred years.

   Next, you will visit the Forbidden City, one of the largest and most completely preserved palace complexes built of wood. It functioned as the imperial palace in the Ming and Qing Dynasties (1368-1912). 24 emperors of the two dynasties once lived here. There are vermilion walls and golden-glazed roofs everywhere. You can see intricate yellow dragon carvings on the white marble staircase, symbolizing imperial power. As you walk past the Hall of Supreme Harmony, your guide shares with you important tales that have happened here. In this 2.5-hour exploration, you will catch a glimpse of how Chinese history was shaped from 1368 to 1912.

   

   In the afternoon, first visit the largest Tibetan Buddhist temple in Beijing - the Yonghe Temple or Lama Temple. It was the residence of the Yongzheng Emperor (1678-1735) and consisted mainly of three elaborate pagodas and over a thousand magnificent halls. After that, go to visit the Temple of Heaven. Located in the southern part of Beijing, it served as a complex of sacrificial buildings where emperors of the Ming and Qing Dynasties prayed for peace and harvest.

   In the evening, you can choose to enjoy Peking Opera at your own expense (optional). Peking Opera is one of China's national treasures and most of its plays are adapted from historical novels. You will get a glimpse of various aspects of ancient China. After the performance, we will transfer you back to your hotel.

   

   Vehicle

   B,L

   Beijing
3. Day 3: Beijing Great Wall Tour
   Hike the Scenic Mutianyu Great Wall and Explore Hutongs by Rickshaw

   After breakfast today, we will drive 1.5 hours to visit one of the world's greatest man-made structures - the Mutianyu Great Wall. This is definitely the highlight of your 11 day China group tour. Mutianyu was first built in the early Ming Dynasty in 1368, with a total length of 5400 meters, and is the most beautiful part of the Great Wall. 90% of the area is covered by vegetation. So in every season, this section attracts tourists with its unique scenery. Follow the guide's footsteps on the winding dragon shaped path, stopping at some beacon towers located in strategic fortresses and learning about their significance. Meanwhile, appreciate the magnificent natural scenery around you.

   

   Optional experience (pay at your own on site): If pure hiking is too much for you, you can also choose to take cable car and toboggan (recommended for those under 60 years old) to enjoy the spectacular scenery from different angles. Please note that there may be long queues, especially during peak seasons such as Chinese holidays.

   On the way back to the downtown area, we will have an exterior visit to the marvelous Bird's Nest which was built for the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games. Walking around the outside of the building to appreciate the unique design and take some pictures is recommended.

   In the late afternoon, you will experience a traditional rickshaw to Beijing's Hutongs. These narrow alleyways are lined with traditional courtyard houses. You can catch a glimpse into the city's cultural heritage. We will take you to visit a local family, and you can learn more about the Beijinger lifestyle.

   Vehicle

   B

   Beijing
4. Day 4: Beijing to Xian by High-speed Train
   Have an Encounter with the Giant Panda, China's National Treasure

   After breakfast, the tour guide will take you to visit the most popular exhibition hall at the Beijing Zoo - the Giant Panda Pavilion. There are a large number of bamboo forests and shrubs in the hall, providing a wild habitat for giant pandas. Afterwards, go to the Summer Palace, where you will enjoy the beautiful lake view, explore the exquisite long corridor, step on the elegant stone bridge, etc. Besides, you can take the option of a boat ride on the Kunming Lake (optional, at an additional cost).

   

   After the Beijing tour, you will be escorted to the railway station for a 5.5-hour high-speed train to Xi'an. Upon arrival, the local driver will pick you up at the exit gate and then transfer you to the selected hotel in downtown area. In the evening, you can wander around the bustling streets and taste local snacks on your own.

   High Speed Train, Vehicle

   B,L

   Xi'an
5. Day 5: Xi'an's Highlights
   Make Yourself a Miniature Terracotta Warrior & Enjoy Tang Dynasty Song and Dance Show

   Today, we'll drive for 1 hour from the hotel to the Terracotta Warriors and Horses in Lintong District, the burial pit of China's first emperor, Qin Shi Huang, which took 38 years to complete. Known as "one of the great discoveries in the history of archaeology in the twentieth century", the Terracotta Army is dubbed as the Eighth Wonder of the World. Here, you will see more than a thousand clay soldiers, each with their own distinctive look and demeanor. Learn the stories behind them from your knowledgeable guide.

   

   After a Chinese-style lunch, you will experience making a mini terracotta figure. It takes around 1 hour. After that, drive back to Xian downtown to visit the Big Wild Goose Pagoda. It was built to hold the sacred scriptures and Buddha statues that were brought from India by the Buddhist translator and traveler Xuanzang in the Tang Dynasty. Strolling in this temple garden (aka Daci'en Temple), the scent of incense intertwines with the rustling sound of ancient cypress trees. Your heart will slowly calm down and gain a moment of complete relaxation.

   For dinner we will arrange a grand dumpling banquet for you, followed by a wonderful Tang Dynasty Music and Dance Show. You will enjoy a magical journey through the ancient and prosperous Tang Dynasty of Chang'an (the ancient name of Xi'an).

   Warm Tip: From December to March, dumpling dinners and shows are usually not available. Therefore, you will need to organize your own dinner and evening activities for the day.

   Vehicle

   B,D

   Xi'an
6. Day 6: Xian City Sightseeing
   Learn to Practice Tai Chi and Optionally Ride a Bike on the City Wall

   In the morning, we will take you to the City Wall Park, which is the main recreational place for Xi'an locals. Here you will learn to practice Tai Chi with a professional master. Tone up your body and mind with some basic movements.

   Then, we will climb the Ancient City Wall of Xi'an. This a military defensive system in old times. Take a leisurely walk or you can optionally ride a bike on the top of the City Wall and enjoy the amazing view of the entire area inside the City Wall. Later, visit the Great Mosque, a complex of ancient Chinese temple buildings with the perfect combination of Chinese classical architecture and Islamic architectural style.

   

   Today's Xi'an tour will end with a cultural tour at the Xi'an Museum. You will see relics from various periods including bronze Buddha statues, stone carvings, tri-colored glazed pottery of the Tang Dynasty, jade, paintings and calligraphy. Besides that, you can also see the historic Small Wild Goose Pagoda and ancient Chinese gardens. After all visits, your guide escort you back to your hotel.

   Vehicle, Bike

   B,L

   Xi'an
7. Day 7: Xian to Guilin by Flight
   Explore Reed Flute Cave's Natural Wonders and Historic Elephant Trunk Hill

   After breakfast, your driver will transfer you to the airport for a morning flight to Guilin, a city enjoying the reputation of "the best landscape in the world". Upon arrival, you will be met by the local guide.

   Your Guilin tour begins at Reed Flute Cave, acclaimed as the "Palace of Natural Arts". You can see a lot of intricate and translucent stalactites, stalagmites, stone columns, and stone flowers. The entire cave resembles a grand and magnificent underground palace crafted from gems, coral, and jade.

   After that, head to visit the Elephant Trunk Hill. It is named after it looks like an elephant drinking water in the river with its trunk. Since the Tang (618-907) and Song dynasties (960-1279), this scenic spot has been a famous tourist destination. It has a history of thousands of years. After the guided half-day tour, you will be escorted to the selected downtown hotel for a good rest.

   

   Flight, Vehicle

   B

   Guilin
8. Day 8: Li River Cruise to Yangshuo
   Enjoy a Scenic Li River Cruise & Experience Real Rural Life of Yangshuo Countryside

   In the morning, meet your tour guide and then transfer to Mopanshan Dock of Li River to catch the cruise ship. We will board a 3-star ship and the whole Li River cruise lasts about 4-4.5 hours. During the period, you will enjoy the picturesque scenery along the river.

   The ship slowly glides over the emerald green water, and the legendary Nine Horses Painting Mountain and the scene of water buffaloes plowing in the terraced fields will be displayed before your eyes. When approaching Xingping Ancient Town, you can capture the beautiful scenery on a 20 RMB banknote. If you happen to be touring after rain, the karst peaks shrouded in mist seem like a constantly changing panoramic painting of ink painting. Very suitable for photography enthusiasts.

   

   Friendly tips: It is suggested that you have a hearty breakfast at the hotel and bring some snacks, as only a simple box lunch is provided on board.

   At about 13:30, the cruise will end in Yanshuo. The local driver will pick you up at dock and transfer you to a must-go place in Yangshuo - West Street. Take a walk in this 1,400-year-old street to see lots of ancient style buildings, taste local people's life and try some local food if you like.

   Then, you have a special experience in the countryside of Yangshuo. We will visit a local family to learn more about real rural life in China. Visit their courtyards and see how their fields are cultivated. After the visit, we will drive back to Guilin for an overnight stay.

   Vehicle, Ferry

   B,L

   Guilin
9. Day 9: Guilin to Shanghai by Flight

   After breakfast, say good bye to Guilin and then your driver will escort you to the airport for your flight to Shanghai, one of the most prosperous cities in China. Upon your arrival, Shanghai local driver will be there to welcome you and transfer you to your hotel.

   The afternoon is your free time. You can stroll along Nanjing Road, see the traditional department stores and taste some authentic Shanghai snacks. As darkness falls, head to the Bund where the buildings are lit up, creating a beautiful night scene.

   Flight, Vehicle

   B

   Shanghai
10. Day 10: The Essence of Shanghai
    City Highlights with a Blend of Ancient and Modern Wonders

    Your China tour in Shanghai starts at Shanghai Museum, which houses millions of collections and especially features bronze wares, porcelain works, paintings, and calligraphy works.

    Next, move on to Yuyuan Garden, a famous classical garden originally built by the owner as a place for his parents to enjoy a tranquil and happy time in their old age. Strolling along the winding paths, you will encounter exquisite rockeries with jagged peaks resembling miniature mountains. Take a moment at a pond where the koi dressed in fiery red and gold freely swim. The pavilions’ vermilion pillars stand in stark contrast to the lush green plants. Your guide will explain the harmonious integration of architecture and nature, allowing you to glimpse the philosophy of traditional Chinese gardens.

    

    After lunch, go to the Bund. You will admire buildings of various styles, enjoy the beautiful Huangpu River, and listen to your guide explaining its history. Then, you will have a relaxing cruise tour on the Huangpu River. It lasts about 1 hour. Last, you will be guided to Tianzifang, a vibrant arts and crafts neighborhood that evolved from the characteristic Shikumen. You can explore the narrow alleys lined with art galleries, quaint cafes, and boutiques. After the tour, drive you back to your hotel.

    

    Vehicle, Ferry

    B,L

    Shanghai
11. Day 11: Departure from Shanghai

    Enjoy your leisurely morning until your driver escorts you to the airport for your flight to your next destination or home. It’s the end of your 11-day Beijing Xi'an Guilin Yangshuo Shanghai tour. Hope you had a good time with us and wish you all the best in the future.

    Vehicle

    B