Ancient Capitals & Panda Conservation in China
Rediscover China's Soul: From Imperial Grandeur to Rural Serenity
Tour Overview
Experience the Perfect Blend of Ancient Heritage and Natural Beauty
This meticulously crafted 12-day journey takes you through China's most iconic destinations, combining imperial history with breathtaking landscapes and unforgettable wildlife encounters. Discover the Great Wall's majesty, stand before the Terracotta Army, witness giant pandas in their natural habitat, and cruise through Guilin's stunning karst mountains.
Detailed Itinerary
Days 1-4: Imperial Beijing - Where Ancient Meets Modern
Day 1: Arrival in China's Capital
Arrival Beijing
Transfer service to hotel
Meals: No Meals
Recommended Hotel: Sunworld Hotel Beijing Wangfujing ★★★★
Begin your journey in Beijing, one of the world's most fascinating cities. After airport greeting, transfer to your hotel for check-in and rest to overcome jet lag.
Day 2: Imperial Heart of China
Tiananmen Square, Forbidden City, Jingshan Park, Back Lakes and Nanluoguxiang Alley
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Morning exploration of Tiananmen Square and the magnificent Forbidden City, followed by panoramic views from Jingshan Park. Afternoon discovery of Back Lakes (Houhai) and historic Nanluoguxiang Alley, with optional Peking duck dinner in the evening.
Day 3: Great Wall Adventure
Mutianyu Great Wall, Olympic Park, The exterior Bird Nest and Water Cube
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Full day exploring the magnificent Mutianyu Great Wall with cable car option, followed by Olympic Park visit to see the iconic Bird Nest and Water Cube architectures.
Day 4: Spiritual Beijing & High-Speed to Xi'an
Temple of Heaven, Old Beijing Hutong, High speed train to Xian
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Morning visit to Temple of Heaven and authentic Hutong experience, followed by afternoon high-speed train journey to ancient capital Xi'an.
Days 5-6: Ancient Capitals - Terracotta Warriors & City Walls
Day 5: Warriors of the First Emperor
Terracotta Warriors, Bell Tower, Gao's Courtyard, Muslim Quarter
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Full day exploring the incredible Terracotta Warriors museum, followed by city highlights including Bell Tower, traditional Gao's Courtyard, and vibrant Muslim Quarter with local snacks.
Day 6: Ancient Walls to Panda Capital
Ancient City Wall, Wild Goose Pagoda and north square, High speed train to Chengdu
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Morning bicycle ride on Ancient City Wall and Wild Goose Pagoda visit, followed by afternoon high-speed train to Chengdu, the panda capital.
Days 7-8: Panda Conservation & Sichuan Culture
Day 7: Giant Panda Encounter
Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, Chengdu People's Park, Kuan Zhai Alley
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Morning panda viewing during feeding time at Chengdu Research Base, followed by local life experience at People's Park and traditional tea house visit. Afternoon exploration of historic Kuan Zhai Alley.
Day 8: Ancient Shu Civilization
Jinsha Ruins Museum, Wuhou Temple, Jinli Ancient Street, Fly to Guilin
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Morning exploration of Jinsha Ruins Museum showcasing ancient Shu culture, followed by Wuhou Temple and Jinli Ancient Street. Evening flight to scenic Guilin.
Days 9-10: Guilin's Natural Masterpieces
Day 9: Li River Cruise & Countryside Bliss
Li River from Guilin to Yangshuo, West Street, Yangshuo countryside tour
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Full day Li River cruise with buffet lunch, featuring stunning karst landscape. Afternoon biking through Yangshuo countryside along Yulong River.
Day 10: Guilin's Natural Wonders to Shanghai
Reed Flute Cave, Elephant Trunk Hill, Fly to Shanghai
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Morning exploration of Reed Flute Cave's magical formations and Elephant Trunk Hill, followed by evening flight to cosmopolitan Shanghai.
Days 11-12: Shanghai - Where Tradition Meets Futurism
Day 11: Shanghai's Dual Personality
Shikumen, the Bund, Yuyuan Garden, Jade Buddha Temple, Lujiazui CBD, Shanghai Tower
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Full day exploring traditional Shikumen alleys, the historic Bund, classical Yuyuan Garden, and Jade Buddha Temple. Afternoon contrast with modern Lujiazui CBD and panoramic views from Shanghai Tower.
Day 12: Farewell to China
Departure Shanghai
Transfer service to airport
Meals: Breakfast
Leisure morning followed by airport transfer, with optional Maglev train experience to Pudong Airport.