About this Tour
This 10-day journey links four of China’s most compelling destinations, combining imperial history, ancient heritage, regional culture, natural scenery, and modern city life. Begin in Beijing, where grand landmarks such as Tian’anmen Square, the Forbidden City, the Temple of Heaven, and the Great Wall reveal the country’s dynastic past. Continue by high-speed rail to Xi’an to explore the Terracotta Warriors, the City Wall, and other sites connected with China’s early imperial legacy. Travel onward to Chengdu for Sichuan culture, a visit to the Dujiangyan Irrigation System and Mount Qingcheng, and a memorable giant panda experience, with the option to join a more immersive Panda Keeper Program. Conclude in Shanghai, where classical gardens, historic waterfront architecture, and a cosmopolitan skyline provide a fitting finale.
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.
Tour Highlights
- Explore Beijing’s imperial heritage at Tian’anmen Square, the Forbidden City, the Temple of Heaven, and the Summer Palace
- Walk along the Mutianyu section of the Great Wall, one of the most scenic and best-preserved stretches
- Travel by high-speed rail from Beijing to Xi’an and from Xi’an to Chengdu
- Visit the Terracotta Warriors, one of China’s most important archaeological discoveries
- Discover Xi’an’s historic character through the Ming City Wall, Giant Wild Goose Pagoda, and vibrant cultural quarters
- Visit the Dujiangyan Irrigation System and Mount Qingcheng, where ancient engineering, UNESCO-listed heritage, Taoist culture, and natural scenery come together
- Observe giant pandas in a protected conservation setting near Chengdu, with an optional Panda Keeper Program for a more immersive experience
- Conclude in Shanghai with Yu Garden, Nanjing Road, and The Bund
Moments from this Tour
What’s Included
- Transportation: High-speed trains or optional domestic flights, and luxury coach
- Lodging: 4-5 Star Hotels and Cultural boutique inns with daily breakfast (twin-sharing basis)
- Meals: As per itinerary with complimentary daily drinking water
- Activities and Tickets: All listed entrance fees and guided experiences as specified in the itinerary
- Tour Guide: English-speaking tour guide
What’s Excluded
- International flights and airport taxes
- Meals not listed in the itinerary
- Tour guide gratuities (recommended 10% gratuity)
- Personal expenses, optional activities, and any items or attraction tickets not mentioned in the Inclusions section
- Travel insurance (strongly recommended)
- Single supplement
- Visa fees (if applicable)
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Beijing
Arrive in Beijing, China’s historic capital, where you will be met and transferred to your hotel. The rest of the day is at leisure to relax after your journey or begin discovering the city at your own pace. Dinner this evening features Beijing’s classic Peking Duck.
Day 2: Iconic Beijing
Today’s sightseeing introduces some of Beijing’s most celebrated landmarks. Begin at Tian’anmen Square before continuing to the Forbidden City, the vast imperial palace complex that served as the seat of power for centuries. Later, visit the Temple of Heaven, a masterpiece of Ming architecture associated with imperial ceremonies for good harvests. In the evening, enjoy a welcome dinner featuring authentic Beijing cuisine.
Day 3: Great Wall Experience & Royal Heritage
Travel to the Mutianyu section of the Great Wall, one of the most scenic and well-preserved stretches of this world-famous monument. After time to walk along the wall and enjoy the mountain surroundings, continue to the Summer Palace, the former imperial retreat known for its lakes, gardens, and elegant pavilions.
Day 4: Beijing to Xi’an by High-Speed Train & Heritage Sites
This morning, travel by high-speed rail to Xi’an, one of China’s great ancient capitals. Upon arrival, explore the impressive Ming City Wall, one of the best-preserved fortifications in the country. Continue to Yongxing Fang, a lively cultural quarter showcasing regional traditions and local snacks. In the evening, you may wish to explore the Muslim Quarter at your own pace, with time to enjoy its vibrant street life and atmospheric food stalls.
Day 5: Ancient Treasures of Xi’an
Discover Xi’an’s most famous historical sites today. Visit the Museum of Qin Terracotta Warriors and Horses, home to one of the world’s most significant archaeological discoveries. Later, continue to the Giant Wild Goose Pagoda, an important Buddhist landmark closely associated with the Silk Road. In the evening, explore Tang Dynasty Ever Bright City, a lively pedestrian area inspired by the grandeur of Tang-era culture.
Day 6: Xi’an to Chengdu by High-Speed Train
Travel by high-speed rail to Chengdu, capital of Sichuan Province and a city known for its teahouse culture, cuisine, and relaxed pace of life. After arrival, enjoy an evening stroll through Jinli Street, a traditional-style pedestrian lane lined with local snacks, handicrafts, and colourful architecture.
- Half-day classic Sichuan cuisine cooking class with local market visit
- Sichuan Opera performance featuring face-changing and fire-spitting
Day 7: Dujiangyan and Mount Qingcheng
Set out this morning for the Dujiangyan Irrigation System, a remarkable feat of ancient engineering and a UNESCO World Heritage Site still in use today. Pause at a scenic viewpoint for a broader perspective of this historic water management system. In the afternoon, continue to Mount Qingcheng, one of the birthplaces of Taoism, known for its forested slopes, tranquil temples, and walking trails.
Day 8: Panda Experience and Chengdu Leisure
This morning, visit a giant panda conservation site in the Dujiangyan area for a chance to observe China’s most recognisable national treasure in a protected setting.
Afterwards, return to Chengdu and enjoy a relaxed walk through Kuanzhai Alley, a charming district of restored courtyards, cafés, and shops. The evening is at leisure. You may wish to discover Chengdu’s lively nightlife around IFS, Taikoo Li, Wangping Street, Dongmen Wharf, and Anshun Bridge, or simply admire the evening atmosphere along the Jinjiang River.
Day 9: Chengdu to Shanghai
Fly to Shanghai, approximately 3 hours, China’s most cosmopolitan city. Upon arrival, enjoy a city tour featuring the classical beauty of Yu Garden, the energy of Nanjing Road, and the famous waterfront promenade of The Bund, where historic architecture and modern skylines meet across the Huangpu River.
Day 10: Shanghai Departure
After breakfast, transfer to Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG) or Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport (SHA) according to your flight schedule.
Itinerary Note: To ensure the best possible travel experience, the order of visits and daily arrangements may be adjusted by the guide based on local conditions, travel time, visitor traffic, weather, and operational considerations. All key included experiences will be arranged as appropriately as possible throughout the journey.
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.
Customer Cancellation Policy View refund eligibility and cancellation fee details
We understand that plans can change. Our cancellation policy is designed to be as fair and transparent as possible:
| Cancellation Timing | Refund | Cancellation Fee |
|---|---|---|
| 60 days or more prior to departure | 80% | 20% |
| 59 to 35 days prior to departure | 50% | 50% |
| 34 days or fewer prior to departure | No Refund | 100% |
Travel Insurance Recommended: We recommend purchasing travel insurance to help protect your trip investment in the event of unforeseen circumstances.