China's Mountain Majesty: Zhangjiajie & Huangshan
An In-Depth Exploration of China's Cultural Capitals and Natural Masterpieces
Day 1: Beijing Arrival & Historic Hutong Immersion
Traditional Courtyards and Local Life
Upon arrival at Beijing airport, meet your guide and transfer to your downtown hotel. After settling in, embark on a rickshaw tour through the historic Hutong area, admiring the ancient Drum and Bell Towers and traditional courtyard residences. Evening free to explore Houhai area's dining options.
Day 2: Imperial Beijing - Forbidden City & Temple of Heaven
Royal Palaces and Ancient Rituals
Begin at Tiananmen Square before entering the magnificent Forbidden City, including exclusive access to the Treasure Gallery and Hall of Clocks. Enjoy imperial-style lunch at Fangshan Restaurant. Afternoon exploration of the Temple of Heaven complex, learning about ancient sacrificial ceremonies.
Day 3: Great Wall Adventure at Mutianyu
Ancient Fortifications and Modern Marvels
Full-day excursion to Mutianyu Great Wall with round-trip cable car included. Optional picnic lunch on the wall. Return journey includes photo stops at Bird's Nest and Water Cube Olympic venues. Evening Peking Duck dinner recommendation.
Day 4: Beijing's Gardens & Flight to Ancient Xi'an
Summer Retreats and Spiritual Sanctuaries
Morning visit to Summer Palace with traditional boat cruise on Kunming Lake. Continue to Yonghe Lama Temple, China's largest lamasery. After lunch, fly to Xi'an for evening arrival and hotel transfer.
Day 5: Terracotta Warriors & Tang Dynasty Splendor
Ancient Army and City Fortifications
Full-day exploration of the Terracotta Army Museum, discovering the life-sized warriors and chariots. After lunch, cycle or tour the Ancient City Wall, then explore the vibrant Muslim Quarter. Evening Tang Dynasty Dinner Show with imperial cuisine.
Day 6: Xi'an's Heritage & Flight to Scenic Guilin
Historical Treasures and Buddhist Culture
Morning at Shaanxi Provincial History Museum viewing 370,000+ artifacts. Visit Small Wild Goose Pagoda for Buddhist cultural experience. After lunch, fly to Guilin, the city of stunning karst landscapes.
Day 7: Guilin's Natural Wonders
Underground Marvels and City Landmarks
Discover Reed Flute Cave's spectacular formations, explore Seven Star Park, and see the iconic Elephant Trunk Hill. Evening cruise through Two Rivers and Four Lakes scenic area, admiring Guilin's illuminated night scenery.
Day 8: Li River Cruise to Yangshuo
Landscape Painting Come to Life
Full-day Li River cruise to Yangshuo (4.5 hours) through breathtaking karst scenery. Afternoon countryside tour visiting local villages. Free time at West Street before evening Impression Sanjie Liu performance on the Li River.
Day 9: Yangshuo Countryside & Flight to Shanghai
Rural Exploration and Modern Metropolis
Morning free for optional cycling to Moon Hill and Big Banyan Tree. After West Street lunch, transfer to airport for Shanghai flight. Evening arrival in China's financial capital.
Day 10: Shanghai - Past and Future
Skyscrapers and Classical Gardens
Morning at Shanghai World Financial Center observatory and Urban Planning Exhibition Hall. After lunch, explore classical Yu Garden and surrounding markets. Evening Bund area exploration, Huangpu River cruise, and ERA Acrobatic Show.
Day 11: Nanxun Water Town Excursion
Ancient Canals and Merchant Wealth
Full-day trip to Nanxun Ancient Town, featuring unique blend of Chinese and Western architecture. Explore wealthy merchant mansions, ancient libraries, and tranquil canals before returning to Shanghai.
Day 12: Shanghai Departure
Farewell to China
Airport transfer according to flight schedule, concluding your comprehensive China journey through imperial history, natural wonders, and modern marvels.