15 Days Beijing-Xian-Chengdu-Guilin-Chongqing-Yangtze-Yichang-Shanghai Group Tour

Today you will explore the imperial heart of China with a full-day guided tour of Beijing’s most iconic landmarks.

Start your journey at Tiananmen Square, the world’s largest public square and a powerful symbol of modern China. From here, walk to the magnificent Forbidden City, the largest and best-preserved imperial palace complex in the world. Once home to 24 emperors, this UNESCO World Heritage Site showcases over 500 years of imperial history, grand architecture, and ancient treasures.

Continue along the central axis of the palace and learn about the lives of emperors, royal ceremonies, and traditional Chinese court culture. After exploring the palace, take a short walk to Jingshan Park, where you will enjoy a panoramic view over the golden rooftops of the Forbidden City and the modern skyline of Beijing.

In the afternoon, visit the beautiful Summer Palace, a masterpiece of Chinese landscape design and former royal garden retreat. Explore elegant pavilions, long corridors, marble bridges, and peaceful lakeside scenery. This site perfectly reflects the harmony between nature and imperial architecture.

Important Note: The Forbidden City is closed on Mondays. If your visit falls on a Monday, it will be replaced by Temple of Heaven or Prince Gong’s Mansion.

Attractions: Tiananmen Square, Forbidden City, Jingshan Park, Summer Palace
Transportation: Private vehicle
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: Comfortable hotel in Beijing

After breakfast, drive approximately 1.5–2 hours to the world-famous Mutianyu Great Wall, one of the best-preserved and most scenic sections of the Great Wall of China. Surrounded by lush green mountains and fewer crowds, this section offers a more relaxed and immersive experience.

Take a cable car up to the wall and begin your walk along ancient stone pathways and watchtowers dating back to the Ming Dynasty. Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views as the Great Wall winds across the mountain ridges. You may choose to hike further along the ridge for more stunning photo opportunities and a deeper exploration of this ancient wonder.

After the Great Wall experience, return to downtown Beijing and make a photo stop at two modern architectural icons: the Bird’s Nest (Beijing National Stadium) and the Water Cube (Beijing National Aquatics Center). These landmarks were built for the 2008 Olympic Games and later used again during the 2022 Winter Olympics.

After sightseeing, return to your hotel for rest and relaxation.

Attractions: Mutianyu Great Wall, Bird’s Nest, Water Cube
Transportation: Private vehicle
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: Comfortable hotel in Beijing

After breakfast, you will be transferred to the train station for a high-speed train from Beijing to Xi’an (about 4.5–5.5 hours). Upon arrival in Xi’an, your driver will meet you at the exit and transfer you to your hotel in the city center. This marks your entry into one of the most historically significant ancient capitals in China.

In the afternoon, visit the iconic Giant Wild Goose Pagoda, a landmark of the Tang Dynasty and one of Xi’an’s most important cultural symbols. Located in a peaceful temple complex, the pagoda was originally built to preserve Buddhist scriptures brought from India, representing the deep historical connection between China and ancient Buddhist civilizations. Walk through the surrounding courtyards and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere that contrasts with the modern city nearby.

Later, explore the lively Muslim Quarter, one of the most famous food and cultural districts in Xi’an. This bustling area is filled with narrow streets, local vendors, and traditional architecture. It is especially known for its street food culture, where you can experience local flavors and authentic Northwest Chinese cuisine in a vibrant night market environment.

After breakfast, drive about 1 hour to the world-famous Terracotta Army Museum, one of the greatest archaeological discoveries on Earth. Built for the first emperor of China, this vast underground army includes thousands of life-size soldiers, horses, and chariots arranged in battle formations. Walk through the excavation pits and observe the incredible craftsmanship and historical scale of this UNESCO World Heritage site.

In the afternoon, return to the city to explore the well-preserved Ancient City Wall of Xi’an, one of the oldest and most complete city defenses in China. You can walk along the top of the wall to enjoy panoramic views where ancient architecture meets modern city life. The contrast between historic towers and the surrounding skyline creates a unique visual experience.

Continue to the famous Bell Tower, located at the city’s central intersection. This landmark represents the historical heart of Xi’an and offers excellent photo opportunities, especially in the evening when the structure is beautifully illuminated. Nearby streets are lively and full of shops, creating a vibrant urban atmosphere that blends history with modern daily life.

After breakfast, take a high-speed train from Xi’an to Chengdu (approximately 3–4 hours). The journey takes you from the ancient capital of emperors into the heart of Sichuan Province, known for its laid-back lifestyle, rich food culture, and giant pandas.

Upon arrival at Chengdu Railway Station, your local guide or driver will meet you at the exit and transfer you to your hotel in downtown Chengdu. After check-in, the rest of the day is free at your own pace.

Chengdu offers a noticeably slower rhythm compared to other major Chinese cities. Streets are lined with tea houses, local snack shops, and relaxed public parks where locals spend hours chatting, playing mahjong, or enjoying traditional tea culture. It is a city where “slow living” is part of everyday life.

You may choose to explore the nearby area around your hotel, take a casual walk through a local commercial street, or simply rest after the train journey. If you want to experience Chengdu immediately, you can try a nearby Sichuan hotpot restaurant, known for its bold and spicy flavors, or enjoy a light dinner featuring local specialties such as mapo tofu or dan dan noodles.

In the evening, Chengdu becomes especially atmospheric with its illuminated streets and lively yet relaxed nightlife. Popular areas include traditional-style pedestrian streets and modern shopping districts where old and new Chengdu blend together. This is a good opportunity to get your first impression of the city’s unique charm before the full Chengdu sightseeing day.

Accommodation in Chengdu.

After breakfast, begin your full-day Chengdu exploration with a visit to the world-famous Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding. This is the best place to see giant pandas up close in a natural-style habitat. Walk through bamboo-filled pathways and observe pandas of different ages eating, playing, and resting. If you arrive early in the morning, you may also see the most active feeding period.

Continue to the Sanxingdui Museum, one of China’s most important archaeological discoveries. This ancient Bronze Age civilization reveals a mysterious cultural world that is very different from central Chinese dynasties. Explore massive bronze masks, sacred trees, and gold artifacts that reflect a civilization over 3,000 years old, offering a fascinating glimpse into ancient Sichuan history.

In the afternoon, visit Jinli Old Street, a lively traditional-style pedestrian street filled with Sichuan snacks, local crafts, and cultural performances. The atmosphere combines historic architecture with modern tourism energy, making it a great place to try local street food, shop for souvenirs, and experience Chengdu’s cultural charm.

Return to your hotel in Chengdu for rest.

After breakfast, take a high-speed train from Chengdu to Chongqing (about 1–2 hours). Upon arrival, meet your guide and begin exploring one of China’s most futuristic and dramatic cities, known for its mountainous terrain and “8D cyberpunk” urban landscape.

Start with Liziba Metro Station, where the light rail famously passes directly through a residential building. This unique engineering design has become one of Chongqing’s most iconic photo spots.

Continue to Kuixing Building, a surreal multi-level structure where different floors connect to dramatically different ground levels due to the city’s vertical terrain. This creates a striking “layered city” experience unique to Chongqing.

Visit Jiefangbei, the city’s central landmark and commercial hub. This bustling pedestrian area combines modern skyscrapers, shopping streets, and historical significance, symbolizing Chongqing’s resilience and rapid development.

In the evening, enjoy a traditional Chongqing hot pot dinner, famous for its bold, spicy, and numbing flavors. After dinner, visit Hongya Cave, a stunning riverside complex built in traditional stilted architecture style. At night, its illuminated buildings create one of the most famous skyline views in China.

End the day at Qiansimen Bridge, where you can enjoy panoramic night views of Chongqing’s glowing skyline and riverside cityscape before returning to your hotel.

After breakfast, depart for a full-day excursion to Wulong Karst National Geology Park (approximately 2.5 hours’ drive), a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its dramatic limestone landscapes and deep natural canyons.

Begin at the panoramic glass observation deck, offering sweeping views over the canyon system. Then take the sightseeing elevator down into the gorge, descending into a surreal natural world surrounded by towering cliffs.

Explore the famous Three Natural Bridges, a spectacular group of giant limestone arches formed by natural erosion over millions of years. Walk along scenic trails and discover unique formations:

• Tianlong Bridge (Heavenly Dragon Bridge) – a massive natural arch resembling a gateway carved into the mountain
• Qinglong Bridge (Azure Dragon Bridge) – a graceful, elegant rock formation surrounded by dense greenery
• Heilong Bridge (Black Dragon Bridge) – a deep, dramatic canyon with a mysterious atmosphere

Along the route, also pass historic sites such as ancient official post stations hidden within the gorge, offering a glimpse into China’s past travel routes.

After exploring the canyon, return to Chongqing in the evening. The rest of the night is free for rest or optional exploration of the city’s illuminated skyline.

After breakfast, take a high-speed train from Chongqing to Zhangjiajie (approximately 2–3 hours), the world-famous destination often called the “Avatar Mountains” for its towering sandstone pillars.

Upon arrival at Zhangjiajie Railway Station, meet your local guide and transfer to your hotel in downtown Zhangjiajie. After check-in, the rest of the day is free for rest or light exploration.

Zhangjiajie has a completely different atmosphere from the cities you visited earlier. Surrounded by dramatic peaks, misty valleys, and dense forests, the city feels closely connected to nature. You may take a relaxed walk around the hotel area, explore local streets, or simply prepare for the upcoming national park adventure.

Optional dinner suggestions include local Hunan-style cuisine, known for its spicy and aromatic flavors. Early rest is recommended before the next day’s mountain exploration.

After breakfast, enter Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its surreal sandstone pillar landscapes that inspired the floating mountains in Avatar.

Begin with the Bailong Elevator, the world’s tallest outdoor glass elevator. In just seconds, you ascend hundreds of meters up the cliff face, revealing breathtaking views of the forest canyon below.

Continue to Yuanjiajie Scenic Area, the most iconic part of Zhangjiajie. Here you will see the legendary floating rock formations, including viewpoints of the famous “Hallelujah Mountains” scenery. Walk along cliffside paths and enjoy dramatic landscapes that appear almost unreal.

Next, visit Tianzi Mountain, known as the “Monarch of Peaks.” This area offers sweeping panoramic views of endless sandstone pillars rising through mist and clouds. Key highlights include viewing platforms such as Dianjiangtai, where you can see wave-like mountain formations stretching into the horizon.

Later, explore He Long Park, featuring scenic viewpoints and a bronze statue commemorating Chinese historical figures, as well as pavilions offering wide-angle views of the mountain sea.

After the tour, transfer to your hotel in the Wulingyuan area for overnight stay.

After breakfast, drive to Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon (about 1.5 hours), home to one of the world’s most famous engineering marvels—the Glass Bridge.

Step onto the transparent bridge suspended high above the canyon and experience panoramic views of cliffs, forests, and waterfalls beneath your feet. This thrilling walkway offers both adrenaline and spectacular scenery in one experience.

Continue exploring the canyon trails, where lush vegetation, streams, and dramatic rock formations create a natural paradise. For adventure lovers, optional activities such as ziplining or bungee jumping may be available depending on seasonal operations.

In the afternoon, visit Baofeng Lake, a peaceful alpine lake surrounded by steep green cliffs. Take a scenic boat ride across calm waters while enjoying reflections of the mountains and traditional folk songs performed by local boat guides.

After the visit, return to Wulingyuan for hotel rest and preparation for the next day’s journey to Tianmen Mountain.

After breakfast, begin your final Zhangjiajie highlight at Tianmen Mountain National Forest Park, one of China’s most dramatic mountain experiences.

Take the world’s longest cableway up the mountain, offering a 30-minute scenic ride over valleys, cliffs, and winding roads. From the summit, explore the famous Glass Skywalk, a transparent walkway built along the cliff edge. Walking here gives you a thrilling “floating in the air” sensation with panoramic views of the deep valleys below.

Continue to the iconic Tianmen Cave (Heaven’s Gate), a massive natural arch formed in the mountain cliff. This spectacular opening is one of Zhangjiajie’s most symbolic landmarks and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks and the famous 99-bend mountain road below.

After completing the Tianmen Mountain tour, descend by cable car and transfer to Zhangjiajie Airport for your flight to Shanghai. Upon arrival, meet your local guide and transfer to your hotel for check-in.

The evening in Shanghai is free. You may rest or enjoy a relaxed walk in the nearby city area.

After breakfast, start your full-day exploration of Shanghai, China’s most modern and international city.

Begin in Pudong District, visiting the iconic Shanghai Tower, one of the tallest buildings in the world. Take a high-speed elevator to the observation deck and enjoy a breathtaking 360-degree view of the entire city skyline, including the nearby Jin Mao Tower and Shanghai World Financial Center.

Continue to the Shanghai Museum, home to one of China’s most important collections of ancient art and cultural relics. Explore bronze vessels, ceramics, calligraphy, and historical treasures that reflect thousands of years of Chinese civilization.

Next, visit Yu Garden, a classical Chinese garden featuring rockeries, ponds, traditional halls, and elegant pavilions. Right outside is the lively Yuyuan Bazaar, where you can explore street food, souvenirs, and traditional architecture.

In the afternoon, walk along Nanjing Road, Shanghai’s busiest shopping street filled with global brands, restaurants, and entertainment.

End the day at The Bund, the most famous waterfront in Shanghai. From here, enjoy stunning night views of the futuristic Pudong skyline across the Huangpu River, where colonial-era buildings meet modern skyscrapers.

After breakfast, enjoy a relaxed morning in Shanghai depending on your flight schedule. This is your final chance to experience the city at your own pace. You may take a short walk around your hotel area, pick up last-minute souvenirs, or enjoy a coffee in one of Shanghai’s modern cafés before departure.

If time allows, you can also revisit nearby attractions such as the elegant riverside streets or modern shopping districts for a final glimpse of the city’s unique blend of history and innovation. Shanghai is often called the “window of China’s future,” and even a simple stroll can reflect its dynamic urban atmosphere.

At the designated time, your driver will transfer you to Shanghai Pudong International Airport or Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport, or to the train station for your onward journey. Please ensure all belongings are collected before check-out.

Your guide will assist with departure arrangements and ensure a smooth transfer.

This concludes your 15-day journey across China’s most iconic destinations, from ancient capitals and imperial wonders to modern skylines, panda encounters, and dramatic natural landscapes.