🌄 Trip Highlights
Embark on a captivating 13-day expedition through China’s most dynamic cities. This journey spans ancient imperial history in Beijing and Xi’an, ultra-modern vibrancy in Shanghai, and the breathtaking mountainous landscape of Chongqing. From walking the Great Wall and witnessing the Terracotta Army to cruising the Huangpu River and savoring fiery hot pot, this itinerary offers a profound and diverse encounter with China’s rich culture, past and present.
📅 Detailed Daily Itinerary
Days 1-4: Beijing – The Imperial Capital
- D1: Arrival in Beijing
- Settle into your hotel and relax after your journey.
- D2: Tiananmen Square & The Forbidden City
- Morning: Stand in the vastness of Tiananmen Square, then enter the magnificent Forbidden City (Imperial Palace), exploring the grand halls and courtyards that were once off-limits to the public.
- Afternoon: Visit the luxurious Prince Gong’s Mansion, a superb example of ancient Chinese garden architecture, followed by a leisurely time at Shichahai, a scenic lakeside area.
- D3: The Great Wall of China
- Morning: Conquer the iconic Badaling Great Wall, hiking along one of its best-preserved sections.
- Afternoon: Discover the serene Temple of Heaven, where emperors prayed for good harvests, and take a stroll through the historic Qianmen Street.
- D4: Summer Palaces
- Morning: Wander through the expansive Summer Palace, a masterpiece of Chinese landscape garden design.
- Afternoon: Explore the evocative ruins of the Old Summer Palace (Yuanmingyuan), a park with a poignant history.
Days 5-7: Xi’an – Ancient Capital & Terracotta Warriors
- D5: Beijing to Xi’an
- Morning: Fly from Beijing to the ancient capital of Xi’an.
- Afternoon & Evening: Free time to explore the city.
- D6: The Terracotta Army
- Morning: Be amazed by the life-sized Terracotta Warriors and Horses, one of the greatest archaeological discoveries of the 20th century.
- Afternoon: Visit the scenic Mount Li and the historic Huaqing Pool, an imperial bathing complex with a rich love story.
- D7: History & Culture
- Morning: Delve into history at the Qin-Han Hall of the Shaanxi History Museum.
- Afternoon: See the Giant Wild Goose Pagoda and enjoy a traditional Shadow Puppet Show at the Gao Family Compound.
- Evening: Immerse yourself in the vibrant lights and performances of the Tang Paradise Night Show (Datang Everbright City).
Days 8-10: Shanghai – The Futuristic Metropolis
- D8: Xi’an to Shanghai
- Morning: Fly to the global financial hub of Shanghai.
- Afternoon & Evening: Free time to rest and acclimatize.
- D9: Skyscrapers & Futuristic Dining
- Morning: Get a photo with Shanghai’s iconic skyline, known as the “Three Pieces,” and ascend the Shanghai J Center observatory for breathtaking city views.
- Afternoon: Enjoy an innovative meal at the 3rd Warehouse Future Restaurant.
- Evening: Be captivated by the “Shanghai Eternal Love” show, a large-scale interactive performance.
- D10: Old Shanghai & The Bund
- Morning: Explore the bustling Chenghuangmiao (City God Temple) bazaar and the beautiful classical Yuyuan Garden.
- Afternoon: Take a Citywalk along Wukang Road, famous for its historic architecture.
- Evening: Experience the glittering skyline with a Huangpu River Cruise and a walk along The Bund.
Days 11-13: Chongqing – The Mountain City
- D11: Shanghai to Chongqing
- Morning: Fly to the mountain city of Chongqing.
- Afternoon/Evening: Feast on a famous Hot Pot dinner at Nanshan Pipa Garden and explore the magical stilted buildings of Hongyadong.
- D12: Chongqing City Exploration
- Afternoon: Experience the essence of Chongqing: walk the Shancheng Step Trail, explore the revitalized Eighteen Steps historic district, watch the train pass through a building at Liziba, and ride the iconic Yangtze River Cable Car.
- Evening: Get a bird’s-eye view from the Cloud Top Eye observatory and enjoy a spectacular Two Rivers Cruise.
- D13: Departure
- Transfer to the airport for your departure flight.
✅ What’s Included
- Accommodation: 5-Diamond hotels with daily breakfast for two.
- Transport: Private 7-seater vehicle (e.g., Buick GL8); all domestic flights and ground transportation as per the itinerary.
- Guidance: Professional English-speaking guide services.
- Gratuities: Tips for the guide are included.
- Admissions: All entrance tickets to listed attractions and experiences.
- Meals: All lunches and dinners mentioned in the itinerary.
❌ What’s Not Included
- International airfare and visa fees.
- Personal expenses (e.g., souvenirs, extra meals).
- Travel insurance.
- Optional activities during free time.
🏠 Single Room Supplement
A single room supplement applies if guests require individual accommodation throughout the tour.
This 13-day journey offers an unforgettable deep dive into the heart of China, from its ancient imperial wonders to its dynamic modern cities.
