
China Grand Cities & Pandas
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Embark on an unforgettable journey through China, beginning with the architectural marvels of Beijing such as the Forbidden City and the majestic Great Wall. Stroll through the ancient streets of Xi'an, marvelling at the astonishing Terracotta Warriors, and capture the vibrant culture of Chengdu with encounters at the Giant Panda Research Centre. Glide down the scenic Li River from Guilin to Yangshuo, where awe-inspiring karst landscapes offer a breathtaking backdrop to leisurely cycling adventures. Conclude your exploration in the bustling city of Shanghai, blending rich tradition with modern flair, as you wander from the storied Bund to the heights of the Shanghai Tower.
For a detailed itinerary and information about visas, money, weather and more.
Accommodation Standard
Prices
Tour Overview
Duration
12 daysHotel Rating
3-5 star hotelsStarts
BeijingEnds
ShanghaiMinimum Age
No minimum ageMaximum Age
Tours have upper age limits for several reasons, such as but not limited to: tour pace, activity level, and accommodation standards. If you fall outside of this age limit, we do have lots of other tours in China that are suitable for all ages!
Arrival Transfer
YesDeparture Transfer
YesTour Guide
Yes - English-speaking tour guideCountry
ChinaMeals Included
Breakfast: 11, Lunch: 9Passengers
$8,450.00
$2,535.00
Accommodation Standard
Prices
Tour Style
Group Size
Min 1 / Max 15
Trip Type
Group Tours
Range
This tour is operated by our trusted local partner and has been handpicked by us to deliver you an unforgettable trip.
Guiding Style
This tour includes scheduled sightseeing with expert guides in key destinations as per the Inclusions, as well as transportation (either with a driver or public transport), plus of course your accommodation. There is no single tour guide or tour leader throughout the trip. You’ll have support where it counts, and more freedom in between. Our cruise tours also fall into this category where you will be looked after by a crew. For more information, check the Inclusions of this tour.
Tour Pace
A balanced pace, with a mix of free time and visits to multiple locations, allowing for both relaxation and exploration. Generally doesn't visit more than one or two destinations per day.
Physical Rating
Demands a higher level of physical effort, including extended walking, hiking, or more challenging terrain. You must be able to walk around 5-kilometres without stopping and on overland trips, you must be able to manage steps up into overland trucks.
Tour Guide
Yes - English-speaking tour guideGroup Size
Min 1 / Max 15Range
This tour is operated by our trusted local partner and has been handpicked by us to deliver you an unforgettable trip.
Guiding Style
This tour includes scheduled sightseeing with expert guides in key destinations as per the Inclusions, as well as transportation (either with a driver or public transport), plus of course your accommodation. There is no single tour guide or tour leader throughout the trip. You’ll have support where it counts, and more freedom in between. Our cruise tours also fall into this category where you will be looked after by a crew. For more information, check the Inclusions of this tour.
Tour Pace
A balanced pace, with a mix of free time and visits to multiple locations, allowing for both relaxation and exploration. Generally doesn't visit more than one or two destinations per day.
Physical Rating
Demands a higher level of physical effort, including extended walking, hiking, or more challenging terrain. You must be able to walk around 5-kilometres without stopping and on overland trips, you must be able to manage steps up into overland trucks.
Trip Type
Group ToursAccommodation Standard
Prices
Tour Highlights
Included
Not Included
Accommodation Standard
Prices
Itinerary
Day 1 - Welcome to Beijing

Your adventure begins upon arrival in Beijing, where our friendly tour guide will greet you at the airport, holding a sign with your name. We'll then escort you to your accommodation, conveniently located in the bustling heart of the city.
Day 2 - Explore Imperial Beijing & Historic Hutongs

Your guide will meet us in your hotel lobby. Our first destination is Tian’anmen Square, where we’ll explore this iconic symbol of China’s history before proceeding to the Forbidden City, home to emperors for almost 500 years. After our visit, we’ll hike to Jingshan Park to enjoy a panoramic view of the Forbidden City from the top of Coal Hill.
Following a traditional Chinese lunch, we’ll drive to the Back Lakes (Houhai) area and stroll through the lively Nanluoguxiang Alley, known for its historic Hutong architecture, trendy shops, and souvenir boutiques. We will then take a break at a local tea house.
We’ll return to the hotel in the late afternoon. Feel free to ask your guide for recommendations on evening activities, such as a night show or a Peking duck dinner.
Day 3 - Admire The Great Wall at Mutianyu

Today, we'll visit the iconic Great Wall of China. We will drive to the Mutianyu section, noted for its stunning scenery and well-preserved watchtowers. You can choose to hike along this ancient structure or take a cable car for a leisurely ascent and explore at your own pace.
Following our visit to the wall, we'll enjoy a traditional Chinese lunch at a local restaurant. On our return journey to Beijing, we will pause at a jade carving factory to witness the intricate craftsmanship of this traditional Chinese art form.
Before heading back to your hotel, we'll stop for photos outside the iconic Bird's Nest and Water Cube, venues from the 2008 Beijing Olympics.
Day 4 - Visit the Temple of Heaven & Take a High-Speed Train to Xi'an

We begin the day with a visit to the Temple of Heaven, a stunning example of ancient Chinese architecture and the largest existing structure dedicated to offering sacrifices to heaven. Then, we'll enjoy a leisurely stroll through the nearby Hutongs, narrow alleys that offer a glimpse into traditional Beijing life.
After lunch at an authentic local Chinese restaurant, we will board a high-speed train to Xi'an. Upon arrival, we'll be met by our local guide and transferred to our hotel for an overnight stay in Xi'an.
Day 5 - Discover Terracotta Warriors & Ancient Xi'an

In the morning, we will collect you from your accommodation and head to the Qin Terracotta Warriors, an iconic world wonder that is truly unmissable. Afterwards, you will have the opportunity to see how pottery figurines are crafted during a visit to a local workshop. We'll then enjoy a Chinese lunch close by.
In the afternoon, we'll visit the Bell Tower, renowned as the largest and best-preserved of its kind in China. Next, we will explore Gao's Courtyard, where you can admire the ancient architecture and engage with local traditions, including paper-cutting and shadow puppetry.
You'll then have time to wander around the vibrant Muslim Quarter at your leisure, where you may wish to shop for souvenirs.
Day 6 - Explore More of Xi'an & Transfer to Chengdu

Check out of your accommodation and join us for a leisurely visit to the Ancient City Wall. After our tour, we'll head to the train station to catch a high-speed train to Chengdu, renowned as the home of the giant pandas. Upon arrival, you will be greeted by a local guide who will assist with your transfer to the hotel for check-in.
Day 7 - Chengdu Pandas & Local Life Experience

In the morning, we will pick you up and head to the Chengdu Giant Panda Research and Breeding Centre to admire the delightful giant pandas. After our visit, we return to the city centre to enjoy a delicious lunch featuring traditional Sichuan cuisine at a well-loved local restaurant.
We then take a leisurely walk through People's Park, offering a glimpse into local life. Next, explore the historic Kuanzhai Alley before having dinner at a nearby eatery.
Day 8 - Uncover Chengdu Culture & Travel to Guilin

We begin our tour with a brief exploration of Sichuan's Culinary Art, immersing ourselves in the region's renowned flavours. Following this, we visit the Jinsha Ruins Museum, located at the historic Jinsha archaeological site. This museum offers insight into the ancient Shu civilisation that thrived in Sichuan during the Shang and Zhou dynasties.
For lunch, we enjoy a meal or perhaps a hotpot at a local restaurant. In the afternoon, we visit Wuhou Temple, the largest museum dedicated to the Three Kingdoms Period. This tranquil spot provides a peaceful retreat within the bustling city.
Afterwards, stroll through the nearby Jinli Ancient Street, noted for its traditional architecture and lively atmosphere. Later, we fly to Guilin, where a local guide will provide a transfer service to our hotel.
Day 9 - Li River Cruise & Yangshuo Countryside

Join us for a deluxe cruise along the enchanting Li River, complete with a buffet lunch on board. This well-appointed vessel offers a comfortable and enjoyable experience as we glide through the stunning river landscapes towards Yangshuo. Marvel at the fairy-tale scenery from the sundeck or enjoy the views from the comfort of your seat.
Upon arrival, explore the lively West Street or opt for a sightseeing car to the parking area. Choose to cycle around the idyllic Yulong River area, where you can immerse yourself in the serene beauty of the countryside and its iconic karst hills. In the late afternoon, we return to Guilin, where you'll spend the night at a local hotel.
Day 10 - Admire Elephant Trunk Hill & Continue to Shanghai

In the morning, we will explore Reed Flute Cave, renowned for its stunning array of stalactites and stalagmites in striking shapes and colours. Later, we'll drive to Elephant Trunk Hill, a symbolic landmark of Guilin, resembling a giant elephant dipping its trunk into the Li River. After lunch, we'll fly to Shanghai, where your local guide will assist with your transfer to the hotel.
Day 11 - Discover Shanghai

We begin our day with a stroll through Old Shanghai, exploring the Shikumen—unique stone gatehouses that blend Western and Chinese architectural styles. Our orientation walk takes us to the historic Bund, which flourished as a trade centre in the late 19th century. Next, we visit Yuyuan Garden, a classic example of a traditional Chinese garden nestled in the heart of Shanghai.
Lunch is at a local Chinese restaurant before we head to the Jade Buddha Temple, renowned for its two exquisite jade statues brought from Burma. Our visit to a silk museum provides insight into China’s famed silk production. We then venture to the Lujiazui CBD, where you can relax on the Riverside Promenade.
We continue to Shanghai Tower, the city's tallest skyscraper, to enjoy sweeping views of the metropolis. After returning to the hotel, we recommend taking in the ERA Acrobatic Show, a top choice for evening entertainment.
Day 12 - Farewell Shanghai

Enjoy a leisurely day at your own pace before we transfer you to the airport for your return flight. If desired, we can arrange an exhilarating ride on the Maglev train to Pudong Airport; otherwise, we will provide a direct drive to the terminal.
Accommodation Standard
Prices
Tour Reviews
Accommodation Standard
Prices
Extras and add-ons
If you'd like to add extras or add-ons to your booking, you can do this easily during checkout. Just review the available options and select any additional services or upgrades you'd like before completing your purchase.
Accommodation Standard
Prices
Hotels
The hotels listed below are examples which we frequently use on this tour. Alternative hotels of a similar standard may be used instead.














Accommodation Standard
Prices
Prices & Dates
'Double/Twin' prices are per person when there are 2 people on the same booking sharing a room. 'Single' prices are applicable to anyone wanting the privacy of their own room. 'Triple' prices (if available) are per person when there are 3 people on the same booking sharing a room.
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