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China Cultural Tour: Beijing, Xi’an, Guilin & Shanghai

Description

Explore the rich heritage, breathtaking landscapes, and modern marvels of China on this perfectly designed 11-day tour. From the historical treasures of Beijing and Xi’an to the scenic rice terraces of Guilin and the dazzling skyline of Shanghai, this journey offers a diverse blend of culture, nature, and city life. Ideal for first-time travelers, this itinerary covers iconic landmarks like the Great Wall, Terracotta Warriors, Li River, and the Bund giving you a taste of ancient traditions and futuristic cities in one unforgettable adventure.

Best Time to Travel: April to November Duration: 10 Nights / 11 Days Destinations Covered: Beijing – Xi’an – Guilin – Shanghai Trip Highlights

• Walk through Tiananmen Square and the Forbidden City in Beijing
• Hike or ride a cable car at the Great Wall of China (Mutianyu section)
• Visit the Temple of Heaven and discover Beijing’s Hutongs
• Explore Xi’an’s Terracotta Warriors and City Wall
• Discover the scenic Longji Rice Terraces in Guilin
• Cruise down the picturesque Li River to Yangshuo
• Wander through the Bund, Yu Garden, and modern Lujiazui in Shanghai
• Experience traditional Chinese cuisine and cultural shows Travel Styles: Cultural, Nature & Adventure, Activities, Transfer, With Transfer

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Beijing Welcome to China! Upon arrival in Beijing, meet our local representative and transfer to your hotel. The day is free to relax and adjust to the time zone. Overnight: Beijing

Day 2: Beijing - Imperial Capital Begin with a visit to Tiananmen Square, followed by the Forbidden City, the largest imperial palace in the world. Enjoy panoramic views from Jingshan Park, then stroll around Houhai Lake and the charming Nanluoguxiang Hutong. Experience a traditional tea ceremony before heading back.

• Optional: Enjoy a Peking Duck dinner or watch a cultural night show.
• Meals: Breakfast
• Overnight: Beijing

Day 3: Beijing - Great Wall & Olympic Legacy Embark on a day trip to the Mutianyu Great Wall, one of the best-preserved sections. Choose to hike or take the cable car for spectacular views. On the way back, visit a jade carving workshop, then stop at Olympic Park to see the Bird’s Nest and Water Cube from the outside.

• Optional: Traditional Chinese foot massage or evening at Sanlitun Bar Street.
• Meals: Breakfast
• Overnight: Beijing

Day 4: Beijing to Xi’an - Ancient City Transition Visit the Temple of Heaven in the morning and observe locals practicing Tai Chi. Enjoy a local lunch before boarding your high-speed train to Xi’an (approx. 5 hours). Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel and relax.

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
• Overnight: Xi’an

Day 5: Xi’an - Terracotta Warriors & Muslim Quarter Explore the UNESCO-listed Terracotta Warriors, then visit a nearby pottery workshop. In the afternoon, see the iconic Bell Tower and stroll through Gao’s Courtyard, where you can witness traditional shadow puppetry and paper-cutting art. Walk through the lively Muslim Quarter for local snacks and shopping.

• Optional: Tang Dynasty Dinner Show
• Meals: Breakfast
• Overnight: Xi’an

Day 6: Xi’an to Guilin - City Wall & Pagodas Visit the Ancient City Wall, with an optional bike ride on top, followed by a stop at Big Wild Goose Pagoda and a musical fountain show. En route to the airport, explore Hanyang Mausoleum. Fly to Guilin and transfer to your hotel.

• Meals: Breakfast
• Overnight: Guilin

Day 7: Guilin - Longji Rice Terraces Drive to Longji Rice Terraces, built over 700 years ago and still actively farmed. Visit local minority villages, meet the Yao and Zhuang communities, and enjoy a traditional bamboo rice lunch. Return to Guilin by evening.

• Optional: Night cruise on Guilin’s Four Lakes
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
• Overnight: Guilin

Day 8: Guilin - Li River Cruise to Yangshuo Take a scenic Li River Cruise to Yangshuo, gliding past limestone peaks and lush countryside. Disembark and explore West Street, then return to Guilin by road.

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch (onboard)
• Overnight: Guilin

Day 9: Guilin to Shanghai - Caves & Skyscrapers Visit Reed Flute Cave and view Elephant Trunk Hill from a rooftop café. Walk along the Li River promenade to see the Twin Pagodas before flying to Shanghai. Meet your guide and transfer to the hotel.

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
• Overnight: Shanghai

Day 10: Shanghai - The Bund & Modern Wonders Discover Old Shanghai at Shikumen alleys, then stroll the Bund. Visit the classical Yuyuan Garden, followed by Jade Buddha Temple and a silk museum. End at Lujiazui Financial District and the towering Shanghai Tower.

• Optional: Watch the famous ERA Acrobatic Show
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
• Overnight: Shanghai

Day 11: Departure from Shanghai Enjoy your morning at leisure. Transfer to the airport for your onward flight.

• Optional: Ride the Maglev Train to Pudong Airport
• Meals: Breakfast