China's Ancient Capitals, Karst Peaks & Urban Frontiers
A Tailored Exploration of Imperial History, Rural Beauty, and Metropolitan Innovation
Journey Overview
From the Great Wall to the Huangpu River
This meticulously crafted 11-day private tour unveils China's multifaceted soul, guiding you through the nation's most iconic landscapes and urban centers. Experience the perfect harmony of ancient traditions and cutting-edge modernity as you traverse from Beijing's imperial grandeur to Xi'an's archaeological wonders, Guilin's painterly scenery, and Shanghai's dazzling skyline.
Detailed Itinerary
Days 1-4: Imperial Beijing & The Great Wall
Day 1: Arrival in the Capital
Accommodation: Sunworld Hotel Beijing Wangfujing ★★★★
Meals: No meals
Your China exploration begins with arrival in Beijing. After airport greetings, transfer to your hotel. The remainder of the day is at leisure to recover from your journey and anticipate the imperial wonders awaiting discovery.
Day 2: Forbidden City & Historic Hutongs
Accommodation: Sunworld Hotel Beijing Wangfujing ★★★★
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Morning exploration begins at Tiananmen Square, then proceeds to the magnificent Forbidden City. Ascend Jingshan Park for unparalleled panoramic views of the ancient palace complex. After lunch, immerse yourself in local life at Back Lakes (Houhai) and navigate the trendy, historic lanes of Nanluoguxiang Alley. Evening brings optional Peking duck dining experiences.
Day 3: Great Wall & Olympic Legacy
Accommodation: Sunworld Hotel Beijing Wangfujing ★★★★
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Journey to Mutianyu section of the Great Wall, where cable car access provides stunning vantage points of this legendary fortification. After lunch, return to the city to explore Olympic Park, photographing the exteriors of the iconic Bird's Nest stadium and Water Cube. Evening recommendations include traditional foot massage or Sanlitun Bar Street.
Day 4: Spiritual Beijing & High-Speed to Xi'an
Accommodation: Somerset Xindicheng Xi'an ★★★★
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Morning visit to the Temple of Heaven, where locals practice tai chi and traditional exercises. Experience authentic Beijing life wandering through nearby hutongs before enjoying a farewell lunch. Afternoon high-speed train to Xi'an (approximately 5 hours) with seamless hotel transfer upon arrival.
Days 5-6: Ancient Capitals & Terracotta Warriors
Day 5: Terracotta Army & Muslim Quarter
Accommodation: Somerset Xindicheng Xi'an ★★★★
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Full-day immersion in Xi'an's ancient wonders begins with the breathtaking Terracotta Warriors museum, including pottery figurine demonstration. After lunch, visit the historic Bell Tower before exploring Gao's Courtyard for traditional paper-cutting and shadow puppetry arts. Conclude at the vibrant Muslim Quarter for shopping and street food exploration. Optional Tang Dynasty Show with dinner available.
Day 6: City Walls & Flight to Guilin
Accommodation: Jolie Vue Boutique Hotel or similar ★★★★
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Morning exploration includes cycling optional on the ancient City Wall followed by visit to Big Wild Goose Pagoda and North Plaza fountain show. After lunch, visit Hanyang Mausoleum en route to the airport for your flight to Guilin. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel in the scenic karst landscape region.
Days 7-9: Guilin's Karst Landscapes & Li River
Day 7: Longji Rice Terraces & Minority Culture
Accommodation: Jolie Vue Boutique Hotel or similar ★★★★
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Journey through mountainous roads to Longji Terraces, where centuries of agricultural cultivation have created stunning layered landscapes. Enjoy lunch in a minority village and interact with local Yao and Zhuang communities. Afternoon provides photography opportunities among the terraces and village life. Evening recommendation includes Four Lakes night cruise.
Day 8: Li River Cruise to Yangshuo
Accommodation: Jolie Vue Boutique Hotel or similar ★★★★
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Full-day Li River cruise aboard a deluxe vessel with buffet lunch, sailing through Guilin's iconic karst mountain scenery. Disembark in Yangshuo to explore West Street before returning to Guilin for overnight accommodation.
Day 9: Guilin's Caves & Flight to Shanghai
Accommodation: SSAW Boutique Hotel Shanghai Bund ★★★★
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Morning exploration of Reed Flute Cave's spectacular stalactite formations, followed by coffee with panoramic views of Elephant Trunk Hill from your hotel terrace. Walk along Li River to see Golden and Silver Twin Pagodas before lunch and afternoon flight to Shanghai. Transfer to your Bund-area hotel upon arrival.
Days 10-11: Shanghai's Contrasts & Departure
Day 10: Traditional Gardens & Modern Skylines
Accommodation: SSAW Boutique Hotel Shanghai Bund ★★★★
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Experience Shanghai's dual personality through Shikumen architecture, the historic Bund waterfront, and classical Yuyuan Garden. After lunch, visit Jade Buddha Temple before contrasting with Lujiazui CBD's futuristic skyline. Ascend Shanghai Tower for breathtaking city views. Evening optional ERA Acrobatic Show.
Day 11: Shanghai Departure
Meals: Breakfast
Leisure morning before airport transfer, with optional Maglev train experience to Pudong Airport. Tour services conclude upon airport arrival.