About this Tour
Embark on an unforgettable 12-day journey that delves deep into China’s rich tapestry of history, culture, and natural wonders. From the ancient capital of Chengdu to the imperial grandeur of Beijing, this immersive tour blends iconic UNESCO World Heritage sites, intimate cultural encounters, and awe-inspiring landscapes. Along the way you’ll volunteer with giant pandas, explore Bronze Age mysteries, walk ancient city walls, unravel the secrets of Silk Road relics, and stand before the imposing Terracotta Warriors — all while savoring authentic local cuisine and learning China’s stories from expert guides.
About China
China is a vast and diverse country known for its rich history, ancient wonders, and vibrant traditions that span thousands of years. From the Great Wall to the Terracotta Warriors, China offers a unique blend of cultural heritage and natural beauty.
Moments from this Tour
What’s Included
- Transportation: Domestic Flights, High-Speed Train, and Luxury Coach
- Lodging: 4-5 Star Hotels and Cultural boutique inns
- Meals: Every full itinerary day will include 3 meals. Arrival and departure will differ.
- Activities and Tickets: All listed entrance and guided experience fees.
- Tour Guide: Local Chinese-speaking driver and English-speaking tour guide
What’s Excluded
- Transportation: Expenses from Activities and Meals not denoted in the Itinerary
- Tour guide gratuities (recommended 10%)
- Trip and cancellation insurance
- Personal expenses
- Visa fees (if applicable)
- Flight tickets outside of the tour
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Kunming – Stone Forest
In the morning, arrive at Kunming Changshui Airport and begin your Yunnan journey with a visit to the iconic Stone Forest, a UNESCO World Natural Heritage site. Here you will see trees and natural monoliths side by side. We will then enjoy a local specialty lunch: Yiliang Roast Duck. After we will drop you off at your hotel to check-in and get adjusted.
Accommodations: Delta Hotel Kunming 5★ or equivalentDay 2: Kunming Cultural Tour + Dynamic Yunnan Show
In the morning we will visit the Kunming City Museum, known for their contemporary art. We will also visit the Yunnan Military Academy, established as one of the three major military academies in the late Qing Dynasty. After lunch, we will go to some intangible cultural heritage workshops, learning the process of Tang Grass paper art and traditional rubbing. We will finish off the day by watching the acclaimed Dynamic Yunnan show.
Accommodations: Delta Hotel Kunming 5★ or equivalent
Day 3: Kunming – Dali
We will spend the morning driving up to Dali. When we arrive we will see the Three Pagodas of Chongsheng Temple (incl. electric shuttle), Dali Ancient Town, Foreigner’s Street, and the Beijing Road Catholic Church in Kunming. Later in the day we will walk in the Old Town and enjoy Bai Culture and cuisine.
Accommodations: Lanlingge Hotel Dali (Ancient Town Branch) 5★ or equivalentDay 4: Dali – Xizhou – Shaxi
WWe will spend the morning visiting Xizhou Ancient Town, exploring Turning Corner Building, Ancient Banyan Tree, and witnessing a three-course tea ceremony. We will take lunch in Xizhou, featuring Bai ethnic cuisine. In the afternoon we will have a Bai tie-dyeing experience in Zhoucheng Village. Finish off the day traveling to Shaxi with some free time to explore the ancient town.
Accommodations: Lanlingge Garden Hotel Shaxi 5★ or equivalentDay 5: Shaxi – Lijiang
In the morning we will go sightseeing in Shaxi, exploring: Xingjiao Temple, Four-Square Street, Ancient Theater Stage, Yujin Bridge, South Gate. After lunch we will drive to Lijiang, where we will spend the rest of the day witnessing Dongba script writing, Naxi embroidery, and traditional Naxi wedding customs in Lijiang Ancient Town.
Accommodations: Floral Zangyuan View Hotel Lijiang 5★ or equivalentDay 6: Jade Dragon Snow Mountain – Blue Moon Valley
We will spend the day taking an excursion to Jade Dragon Snow Mountain National Park. To reach the sights we will take the Glacier Cable Car (or Spruce Meadow cable car during peak season) and explore the alpine meadows and pastures. We will then take the afternoon to visit Blue Moon Valley part of the park, known for its beautiful landscape.
Accommodations: Floral Zangyuan View Hotel Lijiang 5★ or equivalentDay 7: Lashihai Wetland – Departure
In the morning we will visit Lashihai Wetland Park, with optional horseback riding or boating at your expense. We will then walk along the ancient Tea-Horse Road and enjoy the peaceful natural surroundings. Finally we will transfer you to Lijiang Airport based on your flight time.
Day 8: Dali – Xizhou – Shaxi
We will visit Xizhou Ancient Town in the morning, exploring the ancient banyan tree and Corner Tower. We will also be able to see a traditional Bai tea ceremony. We will have lunch here and enjoy local Bai cuisine. After lunch, we will spend the afternoon in Zhoucheng for in-depth tie-dye session, and then head to Shaxi Ancient Town for a leisurely evening Accommodations: Lanlingge Garden Hotel Shaxi 5★ or equivalent
Day 9: Shaxi – Lijiang
We will visit the Xingjiao Temple, Yujin Bridge, South Gate, and Ancient Stage in the morning and then depart for Lijiang at noon. Once we arrive, we will visit Lijiang Old Town and explore Dongba script writing, Naxi wedding customs, and embroidery heritage. Accommodations: Huazhu Cangyuan Lijing Hotel Lijiang 5★ or equivalent
Day 10: Lijiang – Jade Dragon Snow Mountain
We will ascend to Jade Dragon Snow Mountain through either Glacier cableway or Spruce Meadow cableway and tour Snowfield Ranch. In the afternoon we will visit to Blue Moon Valley (electric cart included) and admire the alpine lake scenery. Accommodations: Huazhu Cangyuan Lijing Hotel Lijiang 5★
Day 11: Lijiang – Tiger Leaping Gorge Adventure
In the morning, we will depart from Shigu Town and visit the historic Iron Chain Bridge, where you’ll enjoy panoramic views of the famous First Bend of the Yangtze River. In the afternoon, embark on a scenic hike through the breathtaking Tiger Leaping Gorge, one of China’s deepest and most dramatic canyons. Along the way, take in towering cliffs, rushing waters, and unforgettable natural scenery Accommodations: Huazhu Cangyuan Lijing Hotel Lijiang 5★ or equivalent
Day 12: Lijiang – Lashihai Wetland – Departure
In the morning, visit Lashihai Wetland Park, where you can enjoy optional horseback riding and boating while experiencing a section of the ancient Tea-Horse Road. Take in the serene landscapes and cultural significance of this historic trade route. In the afternoon, transfer to the airport for your return flight home. Accommodations: N/A Meals: Breakfast
Hotel Rating System
Although some hotels on this itinerary may appear to have a lower star rating on international booking websites, they are officially classified by the China National Tourism Administration. This government-regulated system evaluates hotels based on a strict set of standards for quality, facilities, and service. Some differences in rating systems and cultural expectations may account for the variation in online ratings. In order to ensure quality, we rate hotels by this system.