15 Days Beijing-Xian-Chengdu-Chongqing-Zhangjiajie-Shanghai Group Tour

Today is dedicated to discovering the imperial heart of Beijing, where ancient dynasties ruled China for centuries.

After breakfast, begin your tour at Tian’anmen Square, the symbolic center of modern China and the largest public square in the world. Surrounded by monumental architecture and important national landmarks, the square offers an impressive introduction to the grandeur of the capital.

Then walk directly into the magnificent Forbidden City, the largest imperial palace complex on Earth and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Once home to 24 emperors during the Ming and Qing Dynasties, the palace contains grand halls, golden rooftops, elegant courtyards, and priceless cultural treasures. Walking along the central axis allows you to fully experience the scale and majesty of ancient imperial China.

Continue to Jingshan Park, located directly behind the palace complex. Climb to the top pavilion for one of the most famous panoramic views in China, overlooking the endless golden roofs of the Forbidden City and the modern skyline of Beijing beyond.

In the afternoon, visit the beautiful Summer Palace, known as the finest royal garden in China. Featuring peaceful lakes, graceful bridges, pavilions, temples, and landscaped hills, the palace served as the imperial family’s summer retreat. A leisurely walk around Kunming Lake and Longevity Hill reveals the elegance of traditional Chinese garden architecture.

Highlights of Today:

• Explore the political and cultural center of China
• Visit the legendary imperial palace of the Ming and Qing Dynasties
• Enjoy panoramic views over historic Beijing
• Experience the elegance of China’s royal gardens

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: Comfortable Hotel in Beijing
Transportation: Private Vehicle

Today you will experience one of the greatest wonders of the world — the legendary Great Wall of China.

After breakfast, drive to the spectacular Mutianyu Great Wall, one of the best-preserved and most scenic sections of the wall. Surrounded by forests and rolling mountains, this section is famous for its magnificent Ming Dynasty watchtowers and relatively fewer crowds.

Take a cable car up the mountain and begin your unforgettable hike along the ancient stone pathways. Walk between historic watchtowers while admiring breathtaking panoramic views of the wall stretching endlessly across mountain ridges. Adventurous travelers can continue climbing toward higher towers for even more spectacular scenery and photography opportunities.

The Mutianyu Great Wall perfectly combines natural beauty, military history, and architectural achievement, making it one of the absolute highlights of any trip to China.

After returning to downtown Beijing, stop for photos outside the iconic Bird’s Nest Stadium and Water Cube, two world-famous architectural masterpieces originally built for the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games. Their futuristic designs create a dramatic contrast to the ancient landmarks visited earlier in the tour.

After the excursion, return to your hotel and enjoy a relaxing evening.

Highlights of Today:

• Visit the world-famous Great Wall of China
• Hike along the scenic Mutianyu Great Wall
• Enjoy panoramic mountain landscapes and ancient watchtowers
• Photograph the modern Olympic landmarks of Beijing

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: Comfortable Hotel in Beijing
Transportation: Private Vehicle

After breakfast, transfer to the railway station and board a high-speed train from Beijing to Xian, one of the greatest ancient capitals in Chinese history. The comfortable journey takes approximately 4.5 to 5.5 hours and offers a glimpse into China’s advanced rail system and changing landscapes along the way.

Upon arrival in Xian, your local guide and driver will greet you and escort you to begin the city exploration. The first stop is the iconic Giant Wild Goose Pagoda, one of the most famous Buddhist landmarks in China. Built during the Tang Dynasty, this elegant seven-story pagoda was constructed to preserve sacred Buddhist scriptures brought back from India by the monk Xuanzang. The peaceful temple grounds, traditional architecture, and rich cultural history make it an essential cultural site in Xian.

Later, head to the lively Muslim Quarter, the city’s most famous food street and cultural district. Wander through bustling alleyways filled with local snacks, traditional shops, and vibrant street life. Here you can discover the unique blend of Chinese and Islamic culture that has shaped the city for centuries.

Popular local specialties include:

• Roujiamo
• Biangbiang noodles
• Yangrou Paomo
• Grilled lamb skewers
• Persimmon cakes

The energetic atmosphere and delicious street food make this area one of the highlights of visiting Xian.

Highlights of Today:

• Experience China’s modern high-speed railway
• Discover the ancient capital of Xian
• Visit the historic Giant Wild Goose Pagoda
• Explore the famous food paradise of the Muslim Quarter

Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Comfortable Hotel in Xian
Transportation: High-Speed Train & Private Vehicle

Today you will explore the legendary historical treasures of Xian, once the starting point of the ancient Silk Road and home to numerous Chinese dynasties.

After breakfast, drive to the world-famous Terracotta Warriors Museum, one of the most important archaeological discoveries of the 20th century and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Built over 2,000 years ago for Emperor Qin Shi Huang, the underground army contains thousands of life-sized soldiers, horses, and chariots designed to guard the emperor in the afterlife.

Explore the massive excavation pits and admire the extraordinary craftsmanship, detailed facial expressions, military formations, and historical significance of these ancient sculptures. The museum provides a fascinating insight into the power and ambition of China’s first emperor.

After lunch, return to downtown Xian and visit the impressive Ancient City Wall, one of the best-preserved city fortifications in China. Walking along the top of the wall offers panoramic views of both traditional neighborhoods and the modern city skyline. The wall beautifully reflects the contrast between old and new Xian.

Later, continue to the historic Bell Tower area located in the center of the city. This elegant Ming Dynasty structure has become one of the most recognizable landmarks in Xian. In the evening, the illuminated square surrounding the tower creates a vibrant atmosphere perfect for photography and experiencing local nightlife.

Highlights of Today:

• Visit the legendary Terracotta Warriors
• Discover the history of China’s first emperor
• Walk along the ancient fortifications of Xian
• Experience the lively atmosphere around the Bell Tower

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: Comfortable Hotel in Xian
Transportation: Private Vehicle

Today, travel by high-speed train from Xian to Chengdu, the capital of Sichuan Province and home of the world-famous giant pandas. The journey takes approximately 3 to 4 hours and showcases the convenience and efficiency of China’s modern transportation network.

Upon arrival in Chengdu, your local staff will meet you at the railway station and escort you to your downtown hotel. After check-in, enjoy a relaxing free afternoon exploring this laid-back and culturally rich city at your own pace.

Known for its relaxed lifestyle, tea culture, spicy cuisine, and adorable pandas, Chengdu offers a completely different atmosphere from the imperial cities visited earlier in the journey. You may choose to stroll through local streets, visit tea houses, taste authentic Sichuan hotpot, or simply relax and enjoy the slower pace of life.

Optional ideas for the afternoon:

• Taste authentic Sichuan cuisine
• Watch a traditional Sichuan Opera performance
• Explore local shopping streets and tea houses
• Experience the relaxed lifestyle of Chengdu

Highlights of Today:

• Travel comfortably by high-speed train to Chengdu
• Experience the famous leisure culture of Sichuan
• Enjoy free time in one of China’s most livable cities
• Prepare for tomorrow’s panda adventure

Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Comfortable Hotel in Chengdu
Transportation: High-Speed Train & Private Vehicle

Today is one of the most exciting days of the journey as you meet China’s most beloved animals and discover the mysterious ancient civilization of Sichuan.

After breakfast, visit the world-famous Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, the best place in China to observe giant pandas in a natural-style environment. Arriving in the morning gives you the best opportunity to see the pandas actively eating bamboo, climbing trees, playing, and interacting with each other.

Besides giant pandas, you can also see adorable red pandas, panda nurseries, and educational exhibits introducing panda conservation and breeding programs. The peaceful bamboo forests and lush surroundings create an unforgettable experience for animal lovers and photographers alike.

In the afternoon, drive to the remarkable Sanxingdui Museum, one of the most important archaeological discoveries in modern China. The museum showcases the mysterious Ancient Shu Civilization, which dates back more than 3,000 years. Admire extraordinary bronze masks, sacred trees, gold artifacts, and unique sculptures that reveal a highly advanced civilization unlike any other discovered in ancient China.

Later, continue to Jinli Old Street, a lively historical street filled with traditional Sichuan-style architecture, local snacks, handicrafts, tea houses, and cultural performances. Walking through the lantern-lined streets allows you to experience the charm of old Chengdu and the relaxed lifestyle of local residents.

Highlights of Today:

• Meet giant pandas at China’s most famous panda base
• Discover the mysterious treasures of the Sanxingdui Museum
• Experience traditional Sichuan culture at Jinli Old Street
• Taste authentic Sichuan snacks and local specialties

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: Comfortable Hotel in Chengdu
Transportation: Private Vehicle

This morning, board a high-speed train from Chengdu to Chongqing, a journey of approximately 1 to 2 hours. Upon arrival, begin exploring one of China’s most fascinating and visually dramatic cities.

Known as the “Mountain City,” Chongqing is famous for its layered roads, steep hills, futuristic skyline, riverside scenery, and vibrant nightlife. The city’s unique urban design creates the famous “8D magic city” atmosphere loved by travelers and photographers.

Your first stop is the famous Liziba Metro Station, where the monorail dramatically passes directly through a residential building. This engineering wonder has become one of the most iconic attractions in Chongqing and perfectly represents the city’s surreal urban landscape.

Next, visit Kuixing Building, a famous cyberpunk-style viewing area where multi-level streets and elevated walkways create astonishing visual illusions. Standing here feels like entering a futuristic movie scene.

Continue to Jiefangbei, the symbolic commercial center of Chongqing. Surrounded by modern skyscrapers, shopping streets, and bustling nightlife, this landmark reflects the city’s energetic atmosphere and rapid urban development.

In the evening, enjoy an authentic Chongqing Hot Pot Dinner, one of China’s most famous culinary experiences. The spicy and flavorful broth, fresh ingredients, and lively dining atmosphere create an unforgettable local experience.

After dinner, visit the spectacular Hongya Cave, a multi-level riverside complex illuminated with golden lights at night. Built in traditional stilt-house style along the cliffs above the river, the area looks especially magical after dark and resembles scenes from animated fantasy worlds.

Finally, walk to Qiansimen Bridge for panoramic night views of the illuminated skyline and riverside architecture before returning to your hotel.

Highlights of Today:

• Experience futuristic Chongqing
• See the famous train-through-building attraction at Liziba Metro Station
• Explore the cyberpunk atmosphere of Hongya Cave
• Enjoy authentic Chongqing Hot Pot
• Capture incredible night views of the mountain city

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Accommodation: Comfortable Hotel in Chongqing
Transportation: High-Speed Train & Private Vehicle

Today, take a scenic drive from Chongqing to the spectacular Wulong Karst National Geological Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its dramatic limestone landscapes and enormous natural stone bridges.

The park gained international fame after appearing in blockbuster movies such as Transformers and is considered one of China’s most breathtaking natural wonders.

Upon arrival, begin your exploration from the thrilling glass observation platform overlooking the deep canyon below. The panoramic scenery of cliffs, forests, waterfalls, and towering stone formations creates a truly cinematic landscape.

Then descend into the valley by sightseeing elevator and begin walking through the famous Three Natural Bridges scenic area.

Along the trail, you will encounter:

• Tianlong Bridge – the largest and most majestic natural bridge
• Qinglong Bridge – known for its elegant shape and lush surroundings
• Heilong Bridge – famous for its mysterious atmosphere and dark stone formations
• Tianfu Official Post – an ancient-style courtyard hidden deep inside the canyon

The entire scenic area combines massive geological formations, misty forests, streams, waterfalls, and peaceful natural scenery, creating one of the most visually impressive landscapes in southwest China.

After the tour, return to downtown Chongqing for overnight stay.

Highlights of Today:

• Visit the UNESCO-listed Wulong Karst National Geological Park
• Explore the spectacular Three Natural Bridges
• Experience one of China’s most famous movie filming locations
• Enjoy breathtaking canyon and karst landscapes

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: Comfortable Hotel in Chongqing
Transportation: Private Vehicle

This morning, take a high-speed train from Chongqing to Zhangjiajie, one of China’s most famous natural destinations and the inspiration behind the floating mountains in the movie Avatar. The journey takes approximately 2 to 3 hours.

Upon arrival, your local guide and driver will greet you at the railway station and escort you to your hotel. After check-in, enjoy a relaxing free afternoon to explore the city at your own pace or rest before the upcoming mountain adventures.

Known for its extraordinary sandstone peaks, misty valleys, lush forests, and dramatic cliff scenery, Zhangjiajie is considered one of the most spectacular natural regions in China.

Optional activities for your free time:

• Explore local streets and food markets
• Taste traditional Hunan cuisine
• Enjoy the peaceful mountain atmosphere
• Prepare for the next day’s full exploration of Wulingyuan Scenic Area

Highlights of Today:

• Travel comfortably by high-speed train to Zhangjiajie
• Arrive at the world-famous “Avatar Mountains”
• Enjoy free time in one of China’s top natural destinations
• Experience the unique mountain atmosphere of western Hunan

Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel in Zhangjiajie or Wulingyuan
Transportation: High-Speed Train & Private Vehicle

Today you will enter the breathtaking world of Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, part of the UNESCO-listed Wulingyuan Scenic Area and one of the most extraordinary landscapes on Earth.

After breakfast, begin the adventure with a ride on the famous Bailong Elevator, the world’s tallest outdoor glass elevator built directly into a cliffside. Within minutes, you will rise high above the valley floor and enter a surreal landscape of towering sandstone pillars surrounded by clouds and forests.

The first major stop is Yuanjiajie Scenic Area, widely known as the inspiration for the floating Hallelujah Mountains in Avatar. Walk along cliffside pathways while admiring dramatic stone pillars rising vertically into the sky. Highlights include breathtaking panoramic viewpoints and the famous First Bridge Under Heaven, a natural stone bridge connecting two mountain peaks.

Continue to Tianzi Mountain, often called the “King of Peaks.” This scenic area is famous for its sea of clouds, endless sandstone formations, and spectacular panoramic views. The constantly changing mist creates a dreamlike atmosphere that makes the mountains appear to float in the air.

Visit famous viewpoints where hundreds of stone pillars stretch across the landscape, creating one of the most iconic natural scenes in China. The mountain scenery changes beautifully throughout the day depending on clouds, sunlight, and weather conditions.

Later, explore He Long Park, known for its mountain viewpoints and peaceful walking trails before transferring to your hotel in Wulingyuan.

Highlights of Today:

• Explore the UNESCO-listed Wulingyuan Scenic Area
• Ride the world-famous Bailong Elevator
• Visit the Avatar-inspired mountains of Yuanjiajie
• Enjoy panoramic views from Tianzi Mountain
• Experience one of the world’s most unique sandstone landscapes

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: Hotel in Wulingyuan
Transportation: Private Vehicle

After breakfast, continue exploring the natural wonders of Zhangjiajie with a visit to the spectacular Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon.

The canyon is famous for its towering cliffs, waterfalls, forests, crystal-clear streams, and the world-renowned Glass Bridge suspended high above the valley floor. Stretching between two mountain cliffs, the transparent bridge offers thrilling views hundreds of meters above the canyon below.

Walking across the bridge is an unforgettable experience and one of the most exciting highlights in Zhangjiajie. Travelers can admire breathtaking mountain scenery while enjoying the sensation of “walking in the sky.” The area is also famous for adventure activities and incredible photography opportunities.

After exploring the canyon, continue to the peaceful Baofeng Lake, one of the most scenic lakes in the region. Surrounded by steep green peaks and quiet forests, the lake offers a relaxing contrast to the dramatic canyon landscapes visited earlier.

Take a scenic boat ride across the calm waters while enjoying reflections of the mountains and traditional folk songs performed by local singers along the lakeshore. The peaceful atmosphere and beautiful scenery make Baofeng Lake one of the most relaxing experiences of the entire tour.

After the excursion, return to your hotel in Wulingyuan for overnight stay.

Highlights of Today:

• Walk across the world-famous Zhangjiajie Glass Bridge
• Explore the dramatic landscapes of Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon
• Enjoy panoramic canyon and mountain scenery
• Relax on a scenic boat ride at Baofeng Lake
• Experience both thrilling adventure and peaceful natural beauty

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: Hotel in Wulingyuan
Transportation: Private Vehicle

After breakfast, begin your unforgettable adventure to the legendary Tianmen Mountain, one of the most iconic natural attractions in China and a highlight of any trip to Zhangjiajie.

Start with a ride on the world-famous Tianmen Mountain Cable Car, one of the longest cableways on Earth. During the breathtaking ascent, admire panoramic views of forests, cliffs, deep valleys, and the winding mountain road known as the “99 Bends Road,” which dramatically twists up the mountainside toward the summit.

Upon reaching the mountain top, explore the spectacular cliffside walkways and scenic viewpoints. One of the most thrilling experiences is the famous Glass Skywalk, where transparent pathways cling to vertical cliffs thousands of feet above the valley below, offering a true “walk in the sky” sensation.

Continue walking along the dramatic cliff-hanging pathways while enjoying magnificent panoramic views of the surrounding sandstone mountains and forests.

Later, descend toward the legendary Tianmen Cave, also known as “Heaven’s Door,” a gigantic natural arch formed within the mountain. Standing beneath the enormous opening creates an awe-inspiring experience and provides one of the most famous photographic scenes in Zhangjiajie.

After completing the tour, transfer to the airport for your flight to Shanghai, China’s most modern and international metropolis. Upon arrival, your local staff will meet you at the airport and escort you to your hotel for check-in.

Highlights of Today:

• Ride one of the world’s longest cable cars
• Experience the thrilling Glass Skywalk
• Visit the iconic Tianmen Cave
• Admire the famous “99 Bends Road”
• Fly from the mountains of Zhangjiajie to modern Shanghai

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: Comfortable Hotel in Shanghai
Transportation: Private Vehicle & Flight

Today you will explore the fascinating contrasts of Shanghai, where futuristic skyscrapers stand beside classical Chinese gardens and historic colonial architecture.

Begin the day in the modern financial district of Lujiazui, home to some of the tallest skyscrapers in the world. Visit the spectacular Shanghai Tower, currently the tallest building in China and one of the highest observation towers on Earth. From the observation deck, enjoy breathtaking panoramic views over the entire city skyline, the Huangpu River, and the endless urban landscape of Shanghai.

Next, visit the renowned Shanghai Museum, famous for its impressive collections of ancient Chinese bronzes, ceramics, jade, calligraphy, paintings, and traditional art treasures. The museum offers a fascinating journey through thousands of years of Chinese civilization.

Continue to the elegant Yu Garden, a beautifully preserved classical Chinese garden featuring rockeries, ponds, pavilions, bridges, and traditional architecture. Hidden among the busy streets of downtown Shanghai, the garden provides a peaceful escape from the modern city atmosphere.

Nearby, explore the bustling Yuyuan Bazaar, filled with traditional shops, local snacks, souvenirs, tea houses, and lively street scenes.

Later, stroll along the famous Nanjing Road, China’s most popular shopping street, known for its vibrant atmosphere, neon lights, historic buildings, and international brands.

Conclude the day at the legendary Bund, the most iconic waterfront area in Shanghai. Here you can admire the dramatic contrast between the historic European-style architecture along the riverbank and the futuristic skyline rising across the Huangpu River in Pudong.

Highlights of Today:

• Visit the world-famous Shanghai Tower
• Discover Chinese history at the Shanghai Museum
• Explore the classical beauty of Yu Garden
• Walk along lively Nanjing Road
• Enjoy spectacular skyline views from The Bund

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: Comfortable Hotel in Shanghai
Transportation: Private Vehicle

After breakfast, enjoy some free time before your scheduled airport or railway station transfer.

Depending on your departure schedule, you may choose to take a final walk around the city, enjoy local cuisine, or simply relax before your journey home.

Your unforgettable 15-day journey across China now comes to an end. From the imperial grandeur of Beijing and the ancient wonders of Xian, to the adorable pandas of Chengdu, the cyberpunk skyline of Chongqing, the surreal mountains of Zhangjiajie, and the futuristic energy of Shanghai, this tour offers a complete and immersive experience of China’s culture, history, nature, and modern development.

Thank you for traveling with us, and we hope to welcome you back to China again in the future.

Highlights of the Entire Journey:

• Explore China’s two great ancient capitals
• Walk on the legendary Great Wall of China
• Visit the world-famous Terracotta Warriors
• Meet giant pandas in Chengdu
• Experience futuristic Chongqing
• Discover the Avatar-inspired mountains of Zhangjiajie
• Enjoy the modern skyline of Shanghai

Meals: Breakfast
Transportation: Private Airport/Station Transfer