13-Day Journey Through Ancient Civilizations & Living Landscapes (Beijing, Xi'an, Guilin, Hangzhou, Suzhou & Shanghai)
Highlights
- Experience China's essential highlights - from Beijing's imperial majesty and Xi'an's ancient wonders to Guilin's breathtaking landscapes, Hangzhou's poetic West Lake, Suzhou's classical gardens, and Shanghai's futuristic skyline.
- Witness both timeless traditions and cutting-edge technology - hike through the magnificent Longji Rice Terraces and experience Shanghai's innovative drone food delivery service.
- Enjoy privileged access to authentic experiences: a hutong family visit in Beijing, Muslim Quarter food adventure in Xi'an, 4-star Li River cruise, and private garden tours in Suzhou.
- Travel stress-free with all logistics handled - domestic flights, 4-5 star hotels, private transfers, skip-the-line tickets, and meals featuring local specialties like Peking Duck and Hangzhou beggar's chicken.
- Our knowledgeable English-speaking guides bring each destination to life, connecting the dots between ancient history and modern China, ensuring you return home with deep understanding and unforgettable memories.
Tour Features
Accommodation & Meals
This meticulously crafted 13-day journey offers the most complete China experience, connecting imperial grandeur, ancient history, poetic landscapes, and futuristic innovation in one seamless adventure.
| Day | Accommodation | Meals |
|---|---|---|
|
1-3
Beijing
|
Tiantan Hotel Beijing
|
B: Day2, Day3
L: Day2, Day3
|
|
4
Beijing, Xi'an
|
Titan Times Hotel Xi'an
|
B: Day4
|
|
5
Xi'an
|
Titan Times Hotel Xi'an
|
B: Day5
L: Day5
|
|
6
Xi'an, Guilin
|
Guilin Bravo Hotel
+3 photos |
B: Day6
|
|
7-8
Guilin
|
Guilin Bravo Hotel
+3 photos |
B: Day7, Day8
L: Day7, Day8
|
|
9
Guilin, Hangzhou
|
Plaza International Hotel
|
B: Day9
|
|
10
Suzhou, Hangzhou
|
Suzhou Jinling Aster Hotel
|
B: Day10
L: Day10
|
|
11
Shanghai, Suzhou
|
Holiday Inn Shanghai Vista
|
B: Day11
L: Day11
|
|
12-13
Shanghai
|
Holiday Inn Shanghai Vista
|
B: Day12, Day13
L: Day12
|
Route
Arrive in Beijing
Welcome to China’s capital! Your guide will meet you at the airport and escort you to your hotel. The rest of the day is yours to relax or explore at your own pace.
Historical and Cultural Highlights of Beijing
Your China journey begins with two TOPs of the world: the largest public plaza Tian'anmen Square, and the largest and most complete imperial palace the Forbidden City.
Then, we will head to Jingshan Park locates near the exit of the Forbidden City and ascend the stone hill, from where you can enjoy a panoramic view of the Forbidden City and see its symbolic central axis.
We will enjoy lunch at a local restaurant, savoring delicious culinary delights. Afterward, we’ll explore Beijing Hutongs - historic neighborhoods home to traditional locals.
Great Wall Tour & Morden Landmarks in Contrast
Today your destination is Mutianyu Great Wall, where you can hike or take a cable car up for sweeping views of this ancient marvel.
Back in the city, snap photos of the futuristic Bird’s Nest and Water Cube - iconic relics of the 2008 Olympics.
Visit Temple of Heaven then Head to Xi'an
Please prepare your luggage today. After visiting, we will take you to the railway station and take the high-speed train to Xi'an.
Today you will visit Temple of Heaven, where emperors pray for good harvests. If you arrive early, you can see local elders practicing tai chi here. Try to join them!
After the visit, you will be transferred to Beijing train station. Before leaving, you can buy some packed food as lunch on the train. Your guide in Xi'an will pick you up when you arrive.
Terracotta Army & Historical Highlights of Xi'an
First, we will visit the Terracotta Warriors, one of the most significant archaeological discoveries in the world. Here, you'll witness an impressive collection of terracotta figures, including soldiers, horses, and chariots. A golf cart will help you navigate the site.
After that, visit a nearby factory to learn how to make terracotta figures and make one yourself as a unique souvenir.
Then we will return to Xi'an and visit the Ancient City Wall, where you can ride a bike to travel around (optional activity). Afterwards, go to the North Plaza of the Big Wild Goose Pagoda, the best place to take some photos of this Buddhism architecture.
Explore Small Wild Goose Pagoda
Today is your last day in Xi'an. Before leaving, you will visit the Small Wild Goose Pagoda, a well preserved Buddhist temple. During the visit, you can watch a traditional Chinese shadow puppetry show.
You will then be transferred to the airport to take your flight to Guilin. Your Guilin guide will pick you up to the hotel.
Hike on Rice Terraces with Incredible Landscape
Today, take a scenic 2-hour private car journey to Longji Rice Terraces.
Visit an ethnic village where women grown their hair to the ground, then ascend to observation desks for stunning agricultural landscapes.
At a local restaurant, you can have a lunch with local dishes: bamboo rice, Chinese bacon, fried bamboo shoots...
4-Hour Boat Cruise Along the Scenic Li River
Get up earlier today to start your Li River Cruise excursion. You will enjoy a 4-hour scenic cruising on the river with Karst hill on the river bank. The cruise also includes a delicious buffet lunch.
Upon disembarking, you will head to Yangshuo West Street. Experience the fuses eastern and western culture here.
After the visit, we will return to Guilin by private vehicle.
Flight from Guilin to Hangzhou
Enjoy a lazy morning today. Afterwards, you will take a flight to Hangzhou. Your Hangzhou guide will meet you at the airport and transfer you to your hotel.
There are no sightseeing schedule for today. You may try a self-guided tour around the city or have some relaxing time by the West Lake.
The West Lake & Train to Suzhou
Today, you will visit the West Lake and enjoy a boat tour on its crystal-like water. Afterwards, visit the Temple of the Hidden Soul locates by the lake.
Enjoy a lunch of Hangzhou cuisine at a local restaurant. After lunch, you will visit a tea house where you can learn the history, culture and production process of Chinese tea.
After the visit, you will take a high-speed train to Suzhou. Your Suzhou guide will pick you up to your hotel.
Suzhou Traditional Garden & Water Town
First, we will head to the Garden of the Humble Administrator where people consider it one of the most beautiful gardens in southern China.
We will have lunch at a local restaurant where you can enjoy traditional Suzhou food. After lunch, we will visit Tongli Water Town, known for its traditional residences including courtyards, houses and temples. You will enjoy a wooden boat ride through the canals.
Then, we will drive you to your hotel in Shanghai. The private car ride from Tongli to Shanghai takes approximately 1.5 hours.
Discover City Highlights and experience Drone Food Delivery
Today you will enjoy a full day tour of Shanghai. First, go to Huangxing Park in Shanghai to experience ordering food and having it delivered by drone. Then, visit the Jade Buddha Temple and take a walk in the Yuyuan Garden to experience the city’s past. Then, ascend Shanghai Tower to enjoy a panoramic view of the city.
After that, you can stroll along the Bund, a famous promenade in Shanghai. Then pass through Nanjing Street, a bustling shopping street liked by locals and travelers.
Departure
After breakfast, enjoy free time for last-minute shopping or relaxation. A driver will transfer you to Shanghai Pudong or Hongqiao Airport for your international flight, marking the end of your China adventure.
Important to Know
- This sample itinerary is designed for a private tour, featured dedicated vehicle and guide.
- Join-in tour is NOT available, hence solo travelers must cover the entire cost independently.
- Prices are per person and exclude the international flight from/to your home country.
- This tour is offered in US dollars (USD), euros (EUR), and RMB (CNY), other currencies are NOT accepted.
- This sample itinerary is served as a starting point for your trip planning. Feel free to tell us your needs and requirements. Inquiry
- One of our travel consultants will reply your Inquiry by emails or phone. He or she will work with you accross all details about your trip plan until you are totally satisfied with it.
Prices Per Person
| Number of Travelers | Solo | 2 People | 3-5 People | 6-9 People | 10 Plus People | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Estimated Prices | USD $ | 6020.00 | 3758.00 | 3516.00 | 2816.00 | Get Quote Now |
| EUR € | — | — | — | — | ||
| CNY ¥ | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 | ||
The above quotation is based on prices during the shoulder season and is for reference only. As peak and off-peak seasons vary by destination in China, please contact your Traveler Consultant for a customized quotation.
Included
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All entrance fees & activities(Unless labeled as optional in the itinerary)
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All accommodation(Recommend 4-star rating plus)
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Professional guides & drivers(Incl. all destinations in the itinerary)
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All transportation & transfer(Unless labeled as optional in the itinerary)
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Meals & drinking water(As specified in the day-by-day section)
Excluded
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International flights(From/to home)
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Additional accommodation before and at the end of the tour
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Personal items(Souvenirs, tips, etc.)
Contact a Travel Specialist to Get a Quick Start
Your Trip is 100% Tailor-Made
A personal travel expert will collaborate with you on your trip plan, crafting it by truly understanding your needs and expectations.
You'll Skip the Lines with VIP Access
Breeze through airport lounges, board cruises without queues, and enter top attractions via VIP lanes. More moments to savor, less time spent waiting.
You'll Have Dedicated Guide & Transfer
Your journey unfolds with an experienced local guide by your side. Meanwhile, your dedicated transport ensures seamless moves between attractions.
Get the Best Price by Axing Middlemen
You'll connect directly with on-the-ground experts who know China inside out. As a 100% China-based operator, we handle all ground services nationwide, efficiently.