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% gratuity)
- Trip and cancellation insurance
- Personal expenses
- Visa fees (if applicable)
- Flight tickets outside of the tour
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival to Chengdu
In the morning, we will pick you up from the airport and help get you checked into the hotel. In the afternoon we will visit the Wuhou Shrine and learn more about the Three Kingdoms Period. Later on in the evening we will take a walk through Jinli Ancient Street to explore the atmosphere and give you an opportunity to try some snacks.
Day 2: Chengdu – Panda Valley – High-Speed Train – Jiuzhaigou/Songpan
After breakfast at your hotel, we will start the day by going to visit Panda Valley, a wilderness release research center, dedicated to the wellbeing of the pandas. Here we will be able to take pictures and interact with the pandas. We will then head back to Chengdu to eat an authentic Sichuan lunch. In the afternoon we will take a high-speed train to the Guangyuan/Mianyang region, and then take a transfer to a Songpan or Chuanzhusi hotel. Accommodations: Songpan/Chuanzhsi Hotel of 4 stars or equivalent
Day 3: Huanglong – Jiuzhaigou
In the morning we will take a tour of the Huanglong Scenic Area, known for its colorful pools, snow mountains, lush forests, and the Huanglong Temple. Travelers with respiratory conditions are advised to bring portable oxygen, as the altitude in this area will be high. We will have a light lunch near this park to help with altitude adjustment. In the afternoon, we will transfer to the entrance of Jiuzhaigou National park. If you would like, you will also have the option to attend the Jiuzhai Eternal Love ethnic performance Accommodations: Hotel near the Jiuzhaigou entrance area of 4 star quality
Day 4: Full-Day Jiuzhaigou National Park Exploration
We will take the entire day to go sightseeing in Jiuzhaigou National Park. Some of the main highlights we will visit are: Five-Flower Lake, Nuorilang Waterfall, Long Lake, Arrow Bamboo Lake, Shuzheng Lakes and Mirror Lake. We will take a picnic or buffet inside the park for lunch. At the end of the day we will return to the hotel to rest. Accommodations: Hotel near the Jiuzhaigou entrance area of 4 star quality .
Day 5: Jiuzhaigou – High-Speed Train – Return to Chengdu
We will allow time in the morning for leisure, or if you would like, we will take an optional visit to a Tibetan village. Around noon, we will set off for the Guangyuan/Mianyang train station and take the high-speed train to Chengdu. In the evening we will explore Kuanzhai Alley and have dinner in that area, which we recommend trying the Sichuan hotpot. Accommodations: Chengu 5 star hotel
Day 6: Chengdu – Kunming – Stone Forest
In the morning we will catch a flight to Kunming, and have a private airport pickup. In the afternoon, we will takea tour of Stone Forest Geopark, admire Karst formations and enjoy Yi ethnic Roast duck. We will then return to Kunming and drop you off at your hotel for the night. Accommodations: Delta Hotels Kunming 5★ or equivalent hotel
Day 7: Kunming – Dali
After eating breakfast, we will travel to Dali. We will then visit the Three Pagodas of Chongsheng Temple, Dali Ancient Town, Foreigner’s Street and the Catholic Church in Old Town Dali City. In the evening, we will take a stroll in the ancient town and enjoy Bai Culture and cuisine. Accommodations: Lanlingge Hotel Dali (Ancient Town) 5 star or equivalent
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.