China Unveiled: Ancient Capitals & Scenic Wonders
An In-Depth Exploration of China's Cultural Heartlands and Natural Wonders
Tour Overview
Experience the Essence of China
This meticulously crafted 12-day journey takes you through China's most iconic destinations, combining ancient history, cultural immersion, and breathtaking natural scenery. From the imperial grandeur of Beijing to the adorable pandas of Chengdu and the stunning landscapes of Guilin, this tour offers a comprehensive introduction to China's diverse attractions.
Tour Highlights
- Encounter giant pandas at their breeding sanctuary
- Walk along the magnificent Mutianyu Great Wall
- Marvel at the Terracotta Warriors in Xi'an
- Cruise through Guilin's picturesque Li River
- Experience both ancient and modern Shanghai
Detailed Itinerary
Days 1-4: Imperial Beijing & The Great Wall
Day 1: Arrival in Beijing
Accommodation: Sunworld Hotel Beijing Wangfujing ★★★★
Meals: No meals included
Begin your Chinese adventure in Beijing, one of the world's most fascinating cities. Upon arrival at Beijing International Airport, you'll be greeted by your tour guide and transferred to your hotel. Rest and recover from your journey, preparing for the incredible experiences ahead in China's political and cultural capital.
Day 2: Beijing's Imperial Heart
Accommodation: Sunworld Hotel Beijing Wangfujing ★★★★
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Explore Tiananmen Square, the world's largest public square, before entering the magnificent Forbidden City - the largest and most complete ancient imperial palace complex. Climb Jingshan Park for panoramic views over the Forbidden City, then discover Beijing's traditional side at Back Lakes (Houhai) and the charming Nanluoguxiang Alley, known for its blend of history, fashion, and souvenir boutiques.
Day 3: The Great Wall & Olympic Legacy
Accommodation: Sunworld Hotel Beijing Wangfujing ★★★★
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Journey to Mutianyu Great Wall, one of the best-preserved sections popular among international visitors. Choose to hike or take the cable car to explore this ancient wonder. In the afternoon, visit Olympic Park to see the exterior of the Bird's Nest and Water Cube, architectural marvels from the 2008 Beijing Olympics.
Day 4: Beijing to Xi'an
Accommodation: Somerset Xindicheng Xi'an ★★★★
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Visit the Temple of Heaven, where emperors once prayed for good harvests, and experience local life in surrounding parks. Explore traditional Hutong neighborhoods before enjoying lunch and boarding your high-speed train to Xi'an (approximately 5 hours). Your Xi'an guide will meet you upon arrival and transfer you to your hotel.
Days 5-6: Ancient Capital of Xi'an
Day 5: Terracotta Warriors & Muslim Quarter
Accommodation: Somerset Xindicheng Xi'an ★★★★
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Discover the incredible Terracotta Warriors, one of the world's most significant archaeological finds, featuring thousands of life-sized soldiers in battle formation. Visit a pottery factory to learn about traditional craftsmanship. In the afternoon, explore the Bell Tower, Gao's Courtyard with its paper-cutting and shadow puppetry demonstrations, and the vibrant Muslim Quarter with its delicious street food.
Day 6: Xi'an to Chengdu
Accommodation: Tianfu Sunshine Hotel ★★★★
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Walk or cycle along the Ancient City Wall, one of China's oldest and best-preserved fortifications. Visit the Big Wild Goose Pagoda, Xi'an's landmark Buddhist structure, and watch the North Plaza fountain show. After lunch, take a 4-hour high-speed train to Chengdu, where your local guide will transfer you to your hotel.
Days 7-8: Panda Paradise in Chengdu
Day 7: Giant Pandas & Local Culture
Accommodation: Tianfu Sunshine Hotel ★★★★
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Visit the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding early to see these adorable creatures during their active morning feeding time. Explore the Panda Museum and learn about conservation efforts. In the afternoon, experience local life at People's Park, where residents practice tai chi, dance, play mahjong, and enjoy tea houses. Stroll through Kuan Zhai Alley's ancient streets and relax at a Chinese-style Starbucks.
Day 8: Chengdu to Guilin
Accommodation: Jolie Vue Boutique Hotel or similar ★★★★
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Explore Jinsha Ruins Museum to learn about ancient Shu culture from the Shang and Zhou dynasties. Visit Wuhou Temple, dedicated to heroes of the Three Kingdoms period, and adjacent Jinli Ancient Street with its traditional architecture and local snacks. Enjoy a Sichuan hotpot lunch before your evening flight to Guilin, where you'll be transferred to your hotel.
Days 9-10: Guilin's Natural Splendor
Day 9: Li River Cruise & Countryside
Accommodation: Jolie Vue Boutique Hotel or similar ★★★★
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Embark on a scenic Li River cruise to Yangshuo, enjoying buffet lunch while surrounded by stunning karst landscapes. Disembark and explore West Street before cycling through Yangshuo's beautiful countryside along the Yulong River, surrounded by limestone peaks and traditional farming villages.
Day 10: Guilin to Shanghai
Accommodation: SSAW Boutique Hotel Shanghai Bund ★★★★
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Discover Reed Flute Cave's magnificent stalactites and stalagmites, then visit Elephant Trunk Hill, Guilin's iconic landmark resembling an elephant drinking from the Li River. Stroll around Shanhu and Ronghu Lakes before your evening flight to Shanghai, where you'll be met and transferred to your hotel.
Days 11-12: Modern Metropolis of Shanghai
Day 11: Shanghai's Contrasts
Accommodation: SSAW Boutique Hotel Shanghai Bund ★★★★
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Explore Shikumen neighborhoods, traditional lane houses blending Chinese and Western architecture. Walk along the historic Bund waterfront, then visit classical Yuyuan Garden. In the afternoon, see the Jade Buddha Temple and a silk museum before experiencing modern Shanghai at Lujiazui CBD. Ascend Shanghai Tower for breathtaking city views from China's tallest building.
Day 12: Departure from Shanghai
Meals: Breakfast
Enjoy a leisurely morning before your transfer to Shanghai Pudong Airport. Option to experience the Maglev train, the world's fastest commercial train, for your airport transfer. Service concludes as you board your departure flight.