China Unveiled: Ancient Kingdoms & Modern Cities
An Epic Small-Group Adventure from Beijing's Great Wall to Shanghai's Skyline
Tour Overview
Experience the Best of China in One Unforgettable Journey
Embark on an extraordinary 14-day exploration of China's most iconic destinations, designed for solo travelers and small groups seeking an affordable yet comprehensive experience. This carefully crafted itinerary takes you through the heart of Chinese civilization, from ancient imperial capitals to breathtaking natural wonders and vibrant modern cities.
Detailed Itinerary
Days 1-4: Imperial Beijing - Where Ancient Majesty Meets Modern China
Day 1: Arrival in China's Capital
Begin your Chinese adventure with arrival at Beijing Capital International Airport. After meeting your driver, transfer to your 4-star hotel to settle in and recover from your journey. The evening is yours to relax and anticipate the wonders ahead.
Day 2: Beijing's Cultural Heart
Immerse yourself in Beijing's rich heritage starting with the Temple of Heaven, where emperors once prayed for heavenly favor. Experience authentic local life with a rickshaw tour through ancient Hutongs and try your hand at Peking opera facial mask painting. Stand in the vastness of Tiananmen Square before exploring the magnificent Forbidden City, home to Chinese emperors for nearly 500 years.
Day 3: The Great Wall Adventure
Today brings one of the journey's highlights - Mutianyu Great Wall. Ride the cable car to access this marvel of ancient engineering and walk along its historic battlements. On your return to the city, capture memorable photos of the Bird's Nest and Water Cube, iconic venues from the 2008 Beijing Olympics.
Day 4: Royal Gardens & High-Speed to Xi'an
Before departing Beijing, explore the exquisite Summer Palace, China's largest and best-preserved imperial garden. In the afternoon, experience China's modern infrastructure with a high-speed train journey to the ancient capital of Xi'an.
Days 5-6: Xi'an - Where Terracotta Warriors Guard Imperial Secrets
Day 5: Warriors & Ancient Walls
Walk atop Xi'an's remarkably preserved Ancient City Wall before journeying to the archaeological wonder of the Terracotta Warriors. En route, visit a traditional pottery workshop to learn about ancient crafting techniques. Complete your day with visits to Bell Tower Square and the vibrant Muslim Quarter, sampling local delicacies.
Day 6: Cultural Immersion & Journey to Chengdu
Discover Gao's Courtyard to appreciate ancient residential architecture and shadow puppetry traditions. Witness the spectacular musical fountain show at Big Wild Goose Pagoda North Plaza before boarding your afternoon high-speed train to Chengdu, the capital of Sichuan province.
Days 7-9: Chengdu - Pandas, Buddha & Sichuan Spice
Day 7: Giant Pandas & Leshan Grand Buddha
Experience the highlight for animal lovers at Chengdu's Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, observing these beloved creatures in a habitat-mimicking environment. Continue to Mount Leshan to marvel at the world's largest stone Buddha carving, standing 71 meters tall where three rivers converge.
Day 8: Chengdu's Leisurely Pace
Live like a local in People's Park, sipping tea while observing traditional Chinese pastimes. Explore the historic Wuhou Temple dedicated to Three Kingdoms heroes, then wander through Jinli Ancient Street, sampling Sichuan snacks and shopping for local crafts.
Day 9: Free Exploration & Scenic Transfer
Enjoy a leisurely morning exploring Chengdu at your own pace. Consider visiting Jinsha Site Museum, strolling through Kuanzhai Alley's charming courtyards, or sampling authentic Sichuan hotpot. In the afternoon, board your high-speed train to Zhangjiajie through increasingly dramatic landscapes.
Days 10-12: Zhangjiajie - Avatar's Real-World Inspiration
Day 10: Tianmen Mountain's Heavenly Gate
Ascend Tianmen Mountain via one of the world's longest cable cars to experience breathtaking views, the thrilling glass skywalk, and the natural arch of Tianmen Cave. Learn about local Tujia minority culture at a custom park before returning to your hotel.
Day 11: Avatar Mountains Exploration
Enter the otherworldly landscape of Yuanjiajie Scenic Area via the Bailong Elevator, recognizing the towering quartzite sandstone pillars that inspired James Cameron's Avatar. Continue to Tianzi Mountain Nature Reserve before concluding with a scenic train ride through the picturesque Ten-mile Gallery.
Day 12: Glass Bridge & Flight to Shanghai
Challenge your courage on the world's longest and highest glass bridge at Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon. Experience the serene beauty of Baofeng Lake before catching your evening flight to China's most cosmopolitan city, Shanghai.
Days 13-14: Shanghai - Where Tradition Meets Tomorrow
Day 13: Shanghai's Dual Personality
Discover Shanghai's traditional side in Shikumen's historic alleyways before exploring the classical beauty of Yuyuan Garden and bustling Chenghuangmiao Old Street. Ascend the Oriental Pearl TV Tower for panoramic city views and delve into Shanghai's history at the City History Museum. Conclude your day witnessing the spectacular illuminated skyline from the historic Bund.
Day 14: Farewell to China
Enjoy a final Chinese breakfast before transferring to Shanghai Pudong International Airport for your departure, carrying memories of ancient wonders, natural marvels, and modern miracles that will last a lifetime.