16-Day China Panorama Private Tour: Beijing, Xi’an, Guilin, Chengdu, Yangtze Cruise & Shanghai
Tour Highlights:
- The Ultimate China Bucket List: Visit the Great Wall, Forbidden City, Terracotta Army, and Giant Pandas all in one seamless journey.
- Guilin & Yangshuo Landscapes: Cruise the stunning Li River and explore the serene countryside of Yangshuo, away from the city hustle.
- Luxury Yangtze River Cruise: Relax on a 5-star cruise through the magnificent Three Gorges and witness the engineering marvel of the Three Gorges Dam.
- Authentic Culinary Experience: Enjoy premium a-la-carte dining at hand-picked restaurants, savoring authentic local flavors instead of standard tourist meals.
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Beijing – Begin Your Journey Through China
Upon your arrival in Beijing, your private guide will be waiting for you at the arrival hall after you collect your luggage and clear customs. A comfortable, air-conditioned private vehicle will then transfer you directly to your hand-picked hotel for check-in. The rest of the day is yours to relax, overcome jet lag, and recover from your long-haul flight.
- Personalized meet-and-greet at the airport
- Stress-free private transfer to your hotel
- Ample rest time to adjust to the local time zone
- Flexible evening to prepare for the adventures ahead
Day 2: Beijing – Tiananmen Square, Forbidden City In-Depth, Lama Temple & Temple of Heaven
This morning, your guide will take you to Tiananmen Square, the heart of Beijing, where you can capture stunning photos of the Tiananmen Gate, the Monument to the People’s Heroes, and the Chairman Mao Memorial Hall. Just behind the gate lies the magnificent Forbidden City.
As the imperial palace for 24 emperors during the Ming and Qing dynasties (1368–1911), the Forbidden City is a treasure trove of history. As you wander through these vermilion palaces, you can easily imagine the opulent lives of the imperial families.
The Arrowhead Mystery: Look closely at the plaque of the “Jingyun Gate” and you will see an embedded arrowhead. It dates back to the 1813 rebellion when insurgents breached the gate. Emperor Jiaqing ordered the arrow to remain there forever as a permanent warning to future generations.
- The Classic Route: Our expert guides will lead you through the most iconic palaces and hidden gems, ensuring you see the very best of this vast complex.
- Uninterrupted Exploration: We guarantee at least 2 full hours inside the Forbidden City, allowing you to immerse yourself in history without feeling rushed.
★ A-la-carte Welcome Lunch:
At noon, enjoy an a-la-carte welcome lunch at an elegant local restaurant (valued at RMB 150 per person, included in your tour). We highly recommend trying the city’s signature dish — Peking Duck, served in the traditional style.
After lunch, visit the Yonghe Temple (Lama Temple), the most renowned Tibetan Buddhist temple outside of Tibet. Your final stop for the day is the Temple of Heaven, where ancient emperors once performed solemn rituals to pray for good harvests. Its iconic Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests is a masterpiece of wooden architecture you’ve likely seen in travel magazines.
Meals: Western Buffet Breakfast, A-la-carte Welcome Lunch
Day 3: Beijing – Mutianyu Great Wall & Shichahai Hutong Immersion
After breakfast, your guide and driver will meet you at your hotel for a scenic drive to the famous Mutianyu Great Wall. This section is renowned for its dense watchtowers and stunning multi-layered landscapes. To ensure you have ample time to enjoy the breathtaking panoramas, we have arranged a round-trip cable car ride, allowing you to reach the most beautiful sections effortlessly without the strenuous climb.
Lunch is at your leisure. There are various restaurants at the foot of the Great Wall, and your guide will be happy to provide recommendations and assistance based on your preferences.
In the afternoon, we head back to the city, making a brief photo stop at the uniquely designed “Bird’s Nest” (National Stadium). Next, explore the Shichahai Hutong area, the heart of authentic old Beijing. We’ve specially arranged a traditional rickshaw ride and a local family visit, allowing you to traverse the narrow alleys and experience the genuine lifestyle and Courtyard (Siheyuan) culture of local residents.
Visit this authentic gem near Nanluoguxiang, which has been featured in the Michelin Guide for five consecutive years. For the best experience with their signature “Fried Sauce Noodles,” follow the local secret: first, add a splash of seasoned oil to loosen the noodles; then, gradually mix in the savory soybean sauce; and finally, toss in all 13 varieties of fresh vegetable toppings. Average cost: Approx. RMB 40 per person.
Meals: Western Buffet Breakfast
Day 4: Beijing to Xi’an – Summer Palace Exploration & High-Speed Train
After a few busy days, this morning offers a more relaxed pace at the Summer Palace. This magnificent imperial retreat, centered around Kunming Lake and Longevity Hill, is a masterpiece of Chinese landscape garden design, blending nature and architecture into a living painting.
Guide’s Insider Photo Tips: The Summer Palace is a photographer’s paradise. For the best shots, don’t miss the panoramic view of Kunming Lake from the Pavilion of Precious Clouds, the iconic Seventeen-Arch Bridge, the exquisite Marble Boat, and the world-renowned Long Corridor with its vibrant murals.
Your private Beijing adventure concludes here. Your guide and driver will escort you to the railway station and assist with boarding the High-Speed Train to Xi’an. Reaching speeds of up to 350 km/h (217 mph), these are among the most advanced trains in the world. The journey takes approximately 4.5 to 5.5 hours, and we select the fastest departures for your comfort.
Upon arrival in Xi’an, your local private guide will be waiting at the station to transfer you to your hotel by private car.
Meals: Western Buffet Breakfast
Day 5: Xi’an – Terracotta Army In-Depth, DIY Workshop & Shaanxi History Museum
Visiting the Terracotta Army Museum today will undoubtedly be one of the most unforgettable experiences of your journey. As the funerary guards of Emperor Qin Shi Huang (259–210 BC), this site features over 8,000 life-sized terracotta soldiers and 100 chariots. Each figure is unique, with distinct facial features, expressions, and postures.
Historical Insight: Have you ever wondered why they were built? These exquisite figures served as a replacement for the ancient practice of human sacrifice. The Qin State was the first in ancient China to officially abolish human sacrifice by law, and the Emperor commissioned this “silent army” to guard him in the afterlife instead.
- Meet the Discoverer’s Family: In 1974, Mr. Yang Zhifa accidentally unearthed the first warrior while digging a well. After lunch, we’ll visit his family home to hear the legendary story of the discovery and see the very shovel that changed history.
- Terracotta Warrior DIY: Under the guidance of professional craftsmen, use traditional molds to create your own miniature terracotta warrior (approx. 40 mins). It’s the most authentic and personal souvenir you can bring home from Xi’an.
Later, return to the city to visit the Shaanxi History Museum. Housing over 370,000 precious artifacts spanning from prehistoric times to 1840, it provides a comprehensive look at the golden age of Chinese civilization in the Shaanxi region.
Meals: Western Buffet Breakfast
Day 6: Xi’an to Guilin – Ancient City Wall, Muslim Quarter & Han Yang Ling Museum
Start your morning at the City Wall Park, where you’ll witness the vibrant daily life of locals practicing Tai Chi or singing Qinqiang opera. Next, ascend the Ancient City Wall. Built over 600 years ago, it is the best-preserved city fortification in China. You can choose to rent a bicycle to enjoy a breezy ride along the wide top of the wall.
Continue to the Great Mosque, a unique architectural gem that blends Islamic faith with traditional Chinese design. Afterward, wander through the bustling Muslim Quarter, a vibrant gastronomic hub filled with the aromas of authentic local street food.
We will arrange lunch at a renowned restaurant in the Muslim Quarter, where you can savor local specialties such as “Biang Biang” noodles and Roujiamo (Xi’an meat burger).
In the afternoon, visit the Han Yang Ling Museum. This fascinating underground mausoleum features a glass floor, allowing you to walk directly over the excavated pits and look down at the ancient relics. It is also home to the world’s oldest tea (approx. 2,100 years old), as certified by Guinness World Records.
After the tour, you will be transferred to the airport for your flight to Guilin. Upon arrival, your Guilin guide will welcome you and escort you to your hotel.
Meals: Western Buffet Breakfast, Local Flavor Lunch
Day 7: Guilin to Yangshuo – Li River Cruise & Countryside Cycling
The Li River is the soul of Guilin’s scenery. Your private tour continues today with a picturesque cruise down this world-renowned river. As the boat glides forward, you will feel as though you are stepping into a traditional Chinese landscape scroll, with emerald peaks and crystal-clear waters unfolding before your eyes.
Lunch will be served on board. We kindly suggest bringing along a few of your favorite snacks to ensure you remain comfortable while enjoying the four-hour journey through the karst mountains.
After disembarking in Yangshuo, your guide will accompany you on a 1-hour countryside cycling tour. This is the most eco-friendly and flexible way to explore, allowing you to stop whenever you wish to capture the perfect photo of the rural idyll.
* If you prefer not to cycle, we can arrange a private car tour; if you prefer walking, your guide will lead you on a serene stroll through the fields.
Located just a 10-minute walk from West Street, this popular local spot serves Guilin Rice Noodles, the culinary symbol of the region. Choose between soup or “dry-mix” noodles, grab a window seat, and enjoy the silky texture of the noodles while watching the vibrant street life of Yangshuo. Average cost: Approx. RMB 20 per person.
Meals: Western Buffet Breakfast, Onboard Lunch
Day 8: Yangshuo to Guilin – West Street Leisure, Xianggong Hill & Elephant Trunk Hill
This morning is yours for leisure and exploration. You can wander through West Street to find unique ethnic handicrafts, challenge yourself with rock climbing among the limestone peaks, or enjoy the tranquility of bamboo rafting on the Yulong River.
Foodie’s Tip: For lunch, seek out a local eatery to try the famous “Yangshuo Beer Fish,” fried Li River shrimp, or more authentic rice noodles to truly taste the flavors of Guilin.
In the afternoon, we drive back to Guilin. En route, we will hike up Xianggong Hill, which offers the most spectacular panoramic view of the Li River’s famous bend—the view from the top is guaranteed to exceed your expectations. Upon returning to the city, visit the symbol of Guilin—Elephant Trunk Hill, a natural formation that remarkably resembles a giant elephant drinking water from the river.
Meals: Western Buffet Breakfast
Day 9: Guilin to Chengdu – Welcome to the “Land of Abundance”
After breakfast, we will proceed to our next destination — Chengdu. Your guide and driver will transfer you to the railway station and assist you in boarding the high-speed train. As the train speeds along, watch the scenery transform from the karst peaks of Guilin to the fertile plains of the Sichuan Basin.
Upon arrival, your local Chengdu guide will be waiting at the station exit with a warm welcome. You will then be escorted by private car to your hotel for check-in. Use the rest of the day to begin soaking in the city’s famously relaxed and easygoing pace.
Meals: Western Buffet Breakfast
Day 10: Chengdu – Giant Panda Base, Jinsha Site & Xiaojiahe Local Life Experience
No trip to Chengdu is complete without meeting its most famous residents. This morning, your guide will take you to the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding. Here, you can observe these adorable “national treasures” up close as they munch on bamboo and play, offering a truly heartwarming start to your day.
Next, visit the Jinsha Site Museum. Built upon the ruins of the ancient Shu Kingdom’s capital from the 12th century BC, this museum showcases a stunning collection of ivory, gold, and jade artifacts. The highlight is the “Sun and Immortal Birds” gold foil—the official symbol of Chinese Cultural Heritage—offering a glimpse into the mysterious and brilliant ancient Shu civilization.
In the afternoon, we will take you deep into the Xiaojiahe Community to spend a leisurely afternoon like a local:
- Taste of Tradition: Consider trying authentic Sichuan cuisine at “Yongle Restaurant” (self-pay), a neighborhood staple that has served locals for over 20 years.
- Market Exploration: Walk through a vibrant local wet market to see how residents select fresh ingredients, spices, and seasonal fruits.
- Gaiwan Coffee: Stroll to the riverside where locals play Mahjong and sip tea. We have prepared a special “Gaiwan Coffee” for you—coffee served in a traditional Chinese lidded teacup—the perfect fusion of Chengdu’s classic tea culture and modern leisure.
Meals: Western Buffet Breakfast
Day 11: Chengdu to Chongqing – Ciqikou Ancient Town & Embarking on the Yangtze Cruise
After breakfast, your guide will escort you to the railway station for your high-speed train to Chongqing, famously known as the “Mountain City.” Upon arrival, explore the essence of old Chongqing at Ciqikou Ancient Town. Wander through well-preserved Ming and Qing dynasty architecture, sample an array of local spicy snacks, and immerse yourself in the vibrant, bustling atmosphere of this riverside landmark.
In the evening, you will be transferred to the pier for embarkation. For the next 3 days, you will cruise downstream through the heart of the Three Gorges, the most magnificent reach of the Yangtze River. Your guide will assist with luggage and check-in, followed by an orientation of your sailing itinerary by the cruise staff.
Exclusive Arrangements:
- If sailing with Century Cruises, enjoy a sumptuous welcome buffet dinner followed by an elegant Captain’s Welcome Party.
- If sailing with Victoria Cruises, we recommend savoring authentic Sichuan cuisine or a famous Chongqing Hotpot in the city before boarding; your guide will be happy to recommend the best local spots.
Meals: Western Buffet Breakfast, Buffet Dinner (Depending on the cruise line)
Day 12: Yangtze Cruise – Morning Tai Chi & Exploring Fengdu Ghost City
Wake up to a beautiful sunrise over the river and join a Tai Chi class on the sun deck. Under the guidance of a professional master, experience the harmony of this ancient martial art amidst the spiritual energy of the gorges. After breakfast, the ship will dock at Fengdu for a mysterious cultural excursion.
- Fengdu Ghost City: With a history of nearly 2,000 years, this site is built based on Chinese folklore and underworld mythology. It offers a fascinating window into traditional spiritual beliefs and ancient temple architecture.
- Mount Shuanggui: If sailing on Victoria Cruises, you will visit the scenic Mount Shuanggui, a tranquil spot renowned for its natural beauty and its history as a retreat for famous Chinese scholars.
The afternoon is yours for leisure on board. Relax on the sun deck to enjoy the ever-changing canyon scenery, or participate in various cultural lectures and activities. Experience the luxury and comfort of this “floating 5-star hotel” as you sail deep into the gorges.
Meals: Western Buffet Breakfast, Onboard Buffet Lunch, Onboard Buffet Dinner
Day 13: Yangtze Cruise – Sailing Through the Three Gorges & Shennu Stream Discovery
Today marks the climax of your Yangtze River cruise. We highly recommend spending time on the deck as the ship winds through the deep canyons. You will have a front-row seat to the sheer, knife-edge cliffs rising from the riverbanks, truly experiencing the poetic grandeur of the gorges.
- Qutang Gorge: Sailing through approx. 11:00-11:30. Known for its sheer magnificence, this is the iconic landscape featured on the back of the 10 RMB banknote.
- Wu Gorge: Passing through approx. 13:15-13:30. Famous for its deep, serene beauty and the mysterious clouds and mist that often shroud its peaks.
- Shennu Stream (Goddess Stream): Upon reaching the border of Wu and Xiling Gorges, you will transfer to a smaller motorboat for a 3-4 hour excursion into Shennu Stream. This narrow tributary resembles an emerald ribbon winding through lush mountains and primitive canyons.
After returning to the ship, we will continue sailing through the western section of Xiling Gorge, where you can enjoy a tranquil evening as the sun sets over the rugged cliffs.
Meals: Western Buffet Breakfast, Onboard Buffet Lunch, Onboard Buffet Dinner
Day 14: Yichang to Shanghai – Three Gorges Dam & High-Speed Cross-Country Journey
In the morning, the ship will dock at Maoping Pier in Yichang. After breakfast and check-out, the cruise guide will lead you to the Three Gorges Dam—the world’s largest hydroelectric project. You will witness this modern engineering marvel from multiple perspectives and learn about its monumental impact on flood control, power generation, and navigation.
Seamless Connection: Following the tour, the cruise company will transfer you to the Three Gorges Tourist Center in downtown Yichang. Our local private guide will meet you there to escort you to the railway station and assist with boarding your High-Speed Train to Shanghai.
This approximately 6-hour and 15-minute high-speed journey offers a fascinating transition from the middle reaches of the Yangtze to its delta. Upon arrival in the “Magic City” of Shanghai, your local private guide will warmly welcome you at the station and transfer you to your selected hotel for a well-deserved rest.
Meals: Western Buffet Breakfast
Day 15: Shanghai – City Planning Exhibition, Yu Garden, Tianzifang & Huangpu River Cruise
This wonderful day begins at the Shanghai City Planning Exhibition Center. Through exquisite architectural models, you will travel through the past, present, and future of this global metropolis. Next, your guide will lead you to Yu Garden, a masterpiece of classical Jiangnan garden design, renowned for its intricate pavilions, bridges, rockeries, and ponds. Outside the garden, immerse yourself in the lively Yu Garden Bazaar to experience the traditional pulse of the city.
★ A-la-carte Farewell Lunch: A Taste of Shanghai & Canton
At noon, we have specially arranged an a-la-carte farewell lunch at a premier restaurant (valued at RMB 150 per person, included in your tour). Savor authentic Shanghainese and Cantonese delicacies, creating a delicious final memory of your culinary journey through China.
In the afternoon, we stroll through Tianzifang, an artsy district transformed from old residential alleys. Here, you can feel the unique “Magic City” vibe and get a glimpse of traditional Shikumen lane life. Afterward, board a Huangpu River Cruise, the ultimate way to admire the Shanghai skyline: where the futuristic skyscrapers of Lujiazui meet the historic colonial-era architecture of the West Bank.
To conclude the day, enjoy ample free time to explore The Bund, standing face-to-face with the famous 19th-century “Gallery of World Architecture.”
Head to Guangdong Road to try the Scallion Oil Noodles, the true soul of Shanghai’s comfort food. This delicacy, dating back to the Song Dynasty, is perfected at this 40-year-old local favorite. The springy noodles and fragrant scallion oil create an unforgettable aroma. Average cost: Approx. RMB 50 per person.
Meals: Western Buffet Breakfast, A-la-carte Farewell Lunch
Day 16: Departure from Shanghai – Conclusion of Your Grand China Panorama
Your magnificent 16-day journey through China officially draws to a close today. Throughout this tour, we have explored the profound history of ancient capitals, the ethereal beauty of mountain landscapes, and the vibrant energy of modern metropolises.
Your private guide and driver will meet you in the hotel lobby at the pre-arranged time, based on your flight schedule, to provide a comfortable transfer to the airport for your departure.
Thank you for choosing SuperChinaTour. We hope you carry home a suitcase full of memories and a heart full of stories. We wish you a pleasant flight and look forward to welcoming you back to China in the future!
Meals: Western Buffet Breakfast
Inclusions:
- ✓ Private licensed driver and air-conditioned vehicle
- ✓ Entrance fees for all scenic spots listed in the itinerary
- ✓ Luxury Yangtze River Cruise (full board with all meals included)
- ✓ In-tour domestic flights and High-Speed Train tickets
- ✓ Hotel accommodations with daily Western buffet breakfast
- ✓ Premium a-la-carte lunches as specified in the itinerary
- ✓ Professional private English/Chinese speaking guide service
Exclusions:
- ✕ International airfare and relevant taxes
- ✕ China entry visa fees
- ✕ Personal expenses and items not mentioned in the itinerary
- ✕ Gratuities for guides and drivers