Jiankou to Mutianyu Great Wall Trek
An In-Depth Exploration of Guilin's Landscapes and Yunnan's Cultural Tapestry
Itinerary Overview
This redesigned 14-day journey through Southwest China focuses on the most spectacular natural scenery and immersive cultural encounters. Beginning in the modern metropolis of Guangzhou, we travel northward to Guilin's legendary karst landscapes, then westward into the diverse ethnic regions of Yunnan Province, culminating in the Himalayan foothills of Shangri-La. This itinerary has been optimized to maximize meaningful experiences while maintaining comfortable travel pacing.
Detailed Daily Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Guangzhou
Arrival and Transfer Service Meals: No meals Accommodation: In Guangzhou
Upon arrival at Guangzhou Airport, you will be greeted and transferred to your hotel. The remainder of the day is at your leisure to recover from your journey and begin acclimating to the time zone.
Day 2: Guangzhou Cultural Heritage & Transfer to Guilin
Historic Guangzhou Exploration & High-Speed Rail Journey Meals: Breakfast, Lunch Accommodation: In Guilin
Today's cultural immersion begins with visits to three significant Guangzhou landmarks: - Dr. Sun Yat-sen's Memorial Hall: An architectural masterpiece honoring the founding father of modern China - Temple of Chen Family: A magnificent example of traditional Cantonese architecture and ancestral worship - Temple of the Six Banyan Trees: An active Buddhist temple housing priceless Qing Dynasty statues
In the late afternoon, transfer to the railway station for your high-speed train journey to Guilin, where you'll check into your hotel upon arrival.
Day 3: Li River Cruise Experience
Scenic River Journey to Yangshuo Meals: Breakfast, Lunch Accommodation: In Guilin
Today features the highlight of the Guilin region - the magnificent Li River Cruise. This 4-hour journey downstream reveals the iconic karst landscape that has inspired Chinese artists and poets for centuries. Lunch is served aboard the cruise vessel as you float past water buffalo, bamboo groves, and traditional fishing villages. Upon reaching Yangshuo, you'll be transferred back to Guilin. An optional Four Lakes Night Cruise is available this evening (additional cost).
Day 4: Longji Rice Terraces Exploration
Dragon's Backbone Terraces & Zhuang Village Culture Meals: Breakfast, Lunch Accommodation: In Guilin
Journey approximately 2.5 hours to Longsheng to witness one of China's most breathtaking agricultural marvels - the Longji Rice Terraces (Dragon's Backbone Terraces). These spectacular terraces cascade down mountain slopes in elegant curves, creating a stunning visual effect. Visit Ping'an Zhuang Village to experience the unique culture of the Zhuang ethnic minority before returning to Guilin.
Day 5: Guilin's Natural Wonders
Underground Marvels & City Landmarks Meals: Breakfast, Lunch Accommodation: In Guilin
Discover two of Guilin's most famous natural attractions: - Reed Flute Cave: An extraordinary limestone cave illuminated to showcase spectacular formations - Elephant Trunk Hill: The iconic symbol of Guilin, naturally shaped like an elephant drinking from the river
The afternoon is free for independent exploration or relaxation.
Day 6: Transition to Yunnan Province
Leisure Morning & Journey to Kunming Meals: Breakfast Accommodation: In Kunming
Enjoy a relaxed morning in Guilin before checking out and transferring to the railway station for your high-speed train to Kunming, capital of Yunnan Province. Known as the "Spring City" for its temperate climate, Kunming offers a delightful introduction to Yunnan's diverse cultures. Upon arrival, you'll be met and transferred to your hotel.
Day 7: Kunming Geological Wonders & Transfer to Dali
Stone Forest Exploration & Scenic Rail Journey Meals: Breakfast, Lunch Accommodation: In Dali
Begin with a morning visit to Green Lake Park, where locals gather for morning exercises and musical performances. Then journey to the spectacular Stone Forest, a breathtaking karst formation featuring limestone pillars that resemble a petrified forest. This UNESCO World Heritage site showcases nature's sculptural artistry at its finest. In the afternoon, transfer to Kunming South Station for your bullet train to Dali (approximately 2.5 hours), where you'll check into your hotel upon arrival.
Day 8: Dali Cultural Immersion
Ancient Pagodas, Erhai Lake & Old Town Exploration Meals: Breakfast, Lunch Accommodation: In Dali
Discover the highlights of the Dali region: - Three Pagodas of Chongsheng Temple: Iconic triangular pagodas dating back to the 9th century - Erhai Lake Ecological Corridor: Scenic lakeside biking or walking with panoramic views - Zhoucheng Village: Traditional Bai architecture and tie-dye craft demonstration - Dali Ancient Town: An evening exploration of this well-preserved historic town with distinctive Bai ethnic architecture
Day 9: Cangshan Mountain & Journey to Lijiang
Mountain Vistas & Ethnic Architecture Meals: Breakfast, Lunch Accommodation: In Lijiang
Ascend Cangshan Mountain via cable car to the Jade Belt Road, where hiking trails offer spectacular views of Erhai Lake and the Dali valley. Visit a Taoist temple and observe the mountain's unique vegetation. In the afternoon, explore Xizhou Town's traditional Bai residential compounds before driving to Lijiang (approximately 3 hours).
Day 10: Lijiang's Naxi Culture
Ancient Towns & Dongba Cultural Heritage Meals: Breakfast, Lunch Accommodation: In Lijiang
Immerse yourself in Naxi culture through today's explorations: - Lijiang Old Town: A UNESCO World Heritage site with cobblestone streets and traditional architecture - Black Dragon Pool: Picturesque park with iconic views of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain - Dongba Culture Museum: Comprehensive introduction to Naxi spiritual traditions - Baisha Old Town & Murals: 600-year-old frescoes blending Buddhist, Taoist, and Tibetan influences - Dongba Writing Workshop: Hands-on experience with the world's last living pictographic writing system
Day 11: Jade Dragon Snow Mountain
High Altitude Adventure & Cultural Performance Meals: Breakfast, Lunch Accommodation: In Lijiang
Ascend to the high altitudes of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain via cable car to Glacier Park at 4,506 meters. Optional hiking to 4,680 meters offers closer mountain views. After lunch, witness the spectacular "Impression Lijiang" outdoor performance directed by Zhang Yimou, set against the mountain backdrop. Conclude with a visit to Yufeng Temple, showcasing blended architectural influences from multiple religious traditions.
Day 12: Journey to Shangri-La
Dramatic Gorges & Tibetan Culture Introduction Meals: Breakfast, Lunch Accommodation: In Shangri-La
Depart Lijiang for the drive to Shangri-La, stopping en route at Tiger Leaping Gorge, one of the world's deepest river canyons. Hike to viewing platforms overlooking the raging Yangtze River. Continue to Shangri-La, checking into your hotel before exploring Dukezong Ancient Town, the best-preserved Tibetan settlement in Yunnan.
Day 13: Tibetan Cultural Immersion
Monasteries, National Parks & Traditional Arts Meals: Breakfast, Lunch Accommodation: In Shangri-La
Experience authentic Tibetan culture through today's activities: - Sumtsaling Monastery (Ganden Sumtseling): Yunnan's largest Tibetan Buddhist monastery - Local Family Visit: Insight into traditional Tibetan home life and customs - Potatso National Park: China's first national park, featuring pristine lakes and diverse ecosystems - Thangka Painting Workshop: Learn about this sacred Buddhist art form with local artists
Day 14: Departure from Shangri-La
Return Journey & Tour Conclusion Meals: Breakfast
After breakfast, transfer to Shangri-La Airport for your flight to Kunming, connecting with your onward departure flight.