12 Days China Exquisite Experience from Beijing to Shanghai

Arrive at either Beijing Capital International Airport or Beijing Daxing International Airport, where your dedicated tour guide and driver will be waiting to greet you. Embark on your luxury travel adventure in complete comfort and style, as you journey to your hotel. Along the way, your guide will provide insights into the highlights and historical significance of China’s political capital.

Beijing

Once you’ve checked in at the hotel, take the time to unwind, settle in, and explore for the rest of the day. The first day of the China 12 days tour is your free time to explore on your own and indulge in one of the many exceptional local dining options available.

Included: Transportation, Accommodation, English-speaking guide, Meals: dinner.

Prepare for your 2nd day of the China 12 days itinerary with a captivating tour of exploration as you delve into the contrasting lives of emperors and commoners within a single day. Your Beijing adventure begins right after breakfast, as you set off to visit Tiananmen Square, the largest city square in the world. Flanked by significant monuments such as the Great Hall of the People, the Mausoleum of Mao Zedong, and the National Museum of China.

Tiananmen Square

From the square, your knowledgeable guide will lead you across the road to the awe-inspiring Forbidden City. As a culturally significant landmark in Beijing and throughout China, the Forbidden City seems boundless as you traverse one threshold after another. Prepare to be filled with wonder and admiration, particularly when guided through the remarkable exhibits housed in the Gallery of Clocks, Treasure Gallery, and Changyinge.

Forbidden City

After the Forbidden City tour, you continue to visit a Beijing hutong. Stroll through the hutong and observe the daily routines of the local residents who have preserved the traditional lifestyle and customs for which these narrow alleys are renowned. If time allows, you can visit a charming miniature theater, where a traditional Beijing folk art show awaits. If fortune smiles upon you, the elderly star of the show may grace the stage, captivating you with his performances.

The tour culminates with a final stop at the Drum Tower. Situated at the northern end of the central axis of the Inner City, you’ll have the chance to climb the tower and witness the demarcation between the eastern and western sections of the hutong area. Return to the hotel for a brief respite before indulging in Beijing’s quintessential culinary experience: Peking Roast Duck. Savor this delectable meal at one of the city’s most renowned restaurants, Da Dong.

Included: Transportation, Accommodation, English-speaking guide, Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner.

Today, be ready for the itinerary to the remarkable Temple of Heaven, a sacred site where emperors of the Ming and Qing dynasties conducted ceremonies and rituals to beseech bountiful harvests and blessings for the nation. From the Temple of Heaven, a short drive will bring you to Liulichang Culture Street, a historic road that has been home to local craftsmen and artisans for over three centuries. Here, you’ll encounter a treasure trove of Chinese artworks, antiques, and, notably, the Four Treasures of the Study: calligraphy brushes, ink, paper, and ink stones.

Temple of Heaven

The tour proceeds to Yonghe Lamasery, also known as the Lama Temple, widely regarded as the most revered Tibetan Buddhist temple outside of Tibet. This temple once served as the residence of the prince who later became the Yongzheng Emperor of the Qing Dynasty.

Yonghe Lamasery (Lama Temple)

Just a short stroll from the Yonghe Lamasery, you’ll discover another iconic highlight, the Confucius Temple. Despite its unassuming street facade, the temple and its serene grounds hold great significance, as it pays homage to Confucius, the revered philosopher whose teachings have inspired generations of students.

If time permits, take a leisurely walk through Wudaoying Hutong, where you can observe the daily lives of the locals while exploring charming shops and enjoying a cup of coffee. The 3rd day of your China 12 days trip goes leisurely in Beijing.

Included: Transportation, Accommodation, English-speaking guide, Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner.

China boasts numerous iconic historical structures and monuments, but few rivals the magnificence of the Great Wall. On the 4th day of your China 12 days itinerary, you’ll have the opportunity to witness the Jinshanling Section of the wall, which preserves more of its original elements and construction than any other section, albeit with a slightly weathered appearance. Located approximately two hours from Beijing, you can enjoy a scenic drive, immersing yourself in the picturesque countryside along the way. Take a moment to appreciate the unparalleled dining experience as you rest and enjoy a delightful picnic, with the Great Wall and its surroundings.

Great Wall of Jinshanling

In the afternoon, return to Beijing and check into the exquisite Aman Summer Palace, an exclusive boutique retreat conveniently located just steps away from the Summer Palace. This luxurious hotel reflects the grandeur of traditional Chinese Imperial architecture and interior design, with the original complex once serving as accommodations for guests awaiting an audience with Empress Dowager Cixi. Tonight, enjoy a memorable dinner at the renowned royal-style restaurant located in the Summer Palace. Situated within the Ting Li Guan (Oriole Listening Hall), this is the very place where Empress Dowager Cixi herself delighted in Chinese opera and musical performances. You’ll also have the privilege of viewing calligraphy originally penned by Empress Dowager Cixi—an extraordinary memento to cherish from your travels.

Included: Transportation, Accommodation, English-speaking guide, Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner.

Today is your last day in Beijing. In the morning, immerse yourself in the captivating world of imperial court life, as you gain exclusive access to the Summer Palace through a private hotel entrance. Take a leisurely stroll towards Western Dam, passing by notable landmarks such as the Marble Boat, Long Corridor, and the Tower of Buddhist Incense, which offers an unparalleled panoramic view of the vast Summer Palace grounds. Finally, arrive at the Garden of Harmonious Pleasures, an epitome of Summer Palace perfection, where the harmonious blend of natural beauty and architectural marvels creates an enchanting ambiance.

Garden of Harmonious Pleasures

Later, you will check out from your hotel and be transferred to Beijing West Railway Station. With the assistance of your guide, you’ll complete the check-in process and board the high-speed train bound for Xi’an, the next destination in your China 12 days tour. This is an approximately five-hour journey. Upon arrival at Xi’an North Station, your local guide and driver will be there to greet you, facilitating your transfer to the luxurious inner-city hotel selected for your stay in Xi’an.

Included: Transportation, Accommodation, English-speaking guide, Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner.

Commence your exploration of Xi’an with a captivating visit to the ancient City Wall, which stands as the largest and most well-preserved wall of its kind in China. Encircling the former capital city, this impressive structure spans nearly 14 kilometers in length.

Xi’an Ancient City Wall

Next, venture into the charming Shuncheng Alley and Shuyuanmen Street. These renowned areas epitomize the rich cultural and historical essence of Xi’an, boasting a delightful array of curios and mementos that make for cherished travel keepsakes.

For a change of pace, you can seek serenity at Xi’an’s Great Mosque, nestled in the heart of the city’s old district. Dating back to the mid-seventh century, the Great Mosque stands as the oldest and largest Islamic mosque in China, bearing testimony to Xi’an’s significant role as the starting point of the Silk Road.

The Great Mosque of Xi’an

In the afternoon, prepare to be awestruck by the world-renowned Terracotta Army. This is a vast collection of life-sized and astonishingly realistic figures, including soldiers, horses, carts, and weapons. Return to the city and your hotel for a well-deserved rest before embarking on an evening of culinary delights and cultural enchantment. The 6th day of the China 12 Days tour ends with a delightful dinner before attending a spectacular performance at the legendary Tang Dynasty Palace.

Included: Transportation, Accommodation, English-speaking guide, Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner.

After enjoying breakfast, check out from your hotel and meet your guide for a captivating exploration of the Shaanxi History Museum, a repository for over 370,000 relics that narrate the rich tapestry of Chinese history.

Next, visit the Big Wild Goose Pagoda, one of Xi’an’s iconic Buddhist pagodas. Marvel at its imposing structure and, if fortunate, seize the opportunity to ascend to the top for panoramic views that span Xi’an’s 1,400 years of history.

Big Wild Goose Pagoda

Continuing the day’s adventures, you will be driven to the airport for your flight to Chongqing. This is also the next stop in your Chian 12 days itinerary. Upon arrival, your local guide will accompany you on a visit to the charming Ciqikou Old Town, provided that it aligns with the travel schedule. In the evening, you will be escorted to board the Sanctuary Yangzi Explorer cruise ship, marking the beginning of your scenic journey.

Included: Transportation, Accommodation, English-speaking guide, Meals: breakfast, dinner.

On the 8th day of your China 12 days itinerary, you’ll take a leisurely cruise along the majestic Yangtze River today, immersing yourself in the serene and unhurried pace of this remarkable waterway that has inspired poets, philosophers, and peasants alike.

Yangtze River cruise

One option is to visit the Fuling-816 Underground Project, a fascinating relic from the turbulent period of deteriorating Chinese-Russian relations in the 1960s. Alternatively, you can choose to step ashore and delve into the intriguing fusion of science and river management at the White Crane Ridge Underwater Museum. Afterward, explore a local market, immersing yourself in the vibrant atmosphere and discovering the unique offerings.

In the evening, join the Captain’s welcome party, where you can socialize and enjoy the warm hospitality on board. Alternatively, relax and unwind amidst the comforts of the ship or opt to attend the captivating open-air live show, Three Kingdoms.

Included: Transportation, Accommodation, English-speaking guide, Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner.

The 9th day of your China 12 days trip will be another cruise tour, that offers you an up-close encounter with the awe-inspiring Qutang Gorge and Wu Gorge. As part of the journey, you can enjoy an excursion to Shennong Stream aboard a traditional sampan, a wooden boat expertly maneuvered by local Tujia boatmen. This delightful experience allows you to venture into a local village, granting you a glimpse into the authentic lifestyle and traditions of a rural Chinese community.

Shennong Stream

Return to the ship and navigate through the enchanting western section of the Xiling Gorge, savoring the tranquil ambiance and scenic wonders. As the evening descends, indulge in relaxation and enjoy the cruise’s farewell dinner.

Included: Transportation, Accommodation, English-speaking guide, Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner.

After enjoying a delicious breakfast, it’s time to bid farewell to the cruise boat as you disembark at Maoping Pier in Yichang. From there, you’ll board a bus and embark on a visit to the magnificent Three Gorges Dam, the largest hydroelectric project in the world.

Yichang Three Gorges

Following the tour, a shuttle bus will transport you to the Yichang Three Gorges Tourism Center, where you’ll be warmly greeted by your guide. They will accompany you to the airport for your flight to Shanghai. Upon arrival in Shanghai, your dedicated Shanghai guide will be waiting to welcome you and provide comfortable transportation to the hotel.

Included: Transportation, Accommodation, English-speaking guide, Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner.

Your last day in China 12 days itinerary starts with a captivating visit to the Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Center. Immerse yourself in the intricately displayed history of Shanghai’s urban planning and development spanning centuries.

Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Center

Then, take a leisurely stroll along the renowned and prestigious Bund, a picturesque waterfront promenade that beautifully preserves the old-world charm of Shanghai. Explore the vibrant Nanjing Road, China’s busiest shopping district, and if you’re inclined, pay a visit to the renowned Jingdezhen Porcelain Shop.

Experience a change of pace as you venture into the enchanting Yuyuan Garde. Afterward, stroll through the lively Chenghuangmiao bazaars and take a worthwhile detour to the Shikumen Museum in New Spot (XinTianDi), where you can immerse yourself in the rich history of old Shanghai. Conclude your day with a private dining experience at an intimate restaurant nestled in an unmarked 1930s colonial villa, adorned with glossy wallpaper and mosaic floors.

Yuyuan Garden

As the day draws to a close, prepare to be captivated by ERA Intersection of Time, an awe-inspiring live acrobatic performance that has enthralled audiences from around the globe.

Included: Transportation, Accommodation, English-speaking guide, Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner.

This morning, your guide will meet you at the hotel and accompany you to the airport for your departure flight. If your flight time allows, take time to indulge in some last-minute exploration, sightseeing, or shopping in the vibrant city of Shanghai.

For guests whose departure is from Shanghai Pudong International Airport, we offer the option to experience the renowned Shanghai Maglev, the world’s fastest commercial high-speed electric train.

End of China 12 days tour with memorable experiences.

Included: Transportation, English-speaking guide, Meals: breakfast.