13-day All The best China:Beijing & Xi’an & chengdu & Chongqing & Shanghai

Nihao! Welcome to Beijing, the capital city of China! Upon your arrival at the airport in Beijing, the tour guide and driver will meet and greet you at the exit by holding a welcome board with your name. And then escort you to the well-selected hotel in downtown Beijing. The rest of the day is free on your own so you can have a good rest for the jet lag or explore by yourself around your hotel.

Temple of Heaven（天坛 tiān tán）: An Imperial Legacy & Tai Chi Experience

Kick off your day at the Temple of Heaven, a 600-year-old ceremonial site where Ming (1368-1644 AD)and Qing (1644-1912 AD) emperors held grand rituals to pray for good harvests and divine blessings.

Don’t miss the Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests, a 38-meter-tall circular structure built without nails. Test the Echo Wall, where whispers travel magically across 65 meters.

Join a Tai Chi session in the park, practicing this ancient martial art with locals for a calm and energizing experience.

The Forbidden City（紫禁城 zǐ jìn chéng）: The Homes of Emperors

Step into the Forbidden City, the largest and best-preserved palace complex in the world. Built in the early 1400s, it spans over 180 acres with more than 8,700 rooms, serving as home to 24 emperors for nearly 500 years. For comparison, the Forbidden City is over four times larger than Buckingham Palace (39 acres) and vastly exceeds the White House, which sits on just 18 acres.

This imperial city is a living museum of Chinese art, culture, and history. Highlights include the Hall of Supreme Harmony, where the emperor held his throne, and the Imperial Garden, a quiet and beautiful retreat.

Peking Opera Mask Painting Experience

Discover the art of Peking Opera mask painting, a tradition rich in history and symbolism. Learn the meaning behind the bold colors and intricate designs, then paint your own mask under expert guidance.

Take home a unique souvenir and gain insight into China’s vibrant opera culture in a fun, hands-on way!

Peking Duck Feast: A Must-Try Beijing Experience

A trip to Beijing isn’t complete without trying Peking Duck, the city’s signature dish. Watch as the chef expertly carves crispy, golden duck into thin slices, served with pancakes, scallions, and hoisin sauce.

Enjoy the perfect balance of rich flavors and crispy texture, a dish once reserved for royalty but now loved by all. A must-try for food lovers!

Mutianyu Great Wall（慕田峪长城 mù tián yù cháng chéng）:A Scenic and Fun-Filled Adventure

No trip to Beijing is complete without visiting the Great Wall of China, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Built over 2,000 years ago, the wall stretches over 13,000 miles and was constructed without modern machinery, making it an incredible feat of ancient engineering.

Today, explore the Mutianyu section, a scenic and less crowded part of the Great Wall, ideal for families, seniors. Easily accessible from Beijing, it offers cable cars, chairlifts, and a thrilling toboggan ride, you can choose how you explore—walk at your own pace or enjoy a fun, effortless ascent and descent.

Bird’s Nest （鸟巢 niǎo cháo）& Water Cube （水立方 shuǐ lì fāng）: Beijing’s Olympic Landmarks

Visit Beijing’s iconic Olympic venues, the Bird’s Nest (National Stadium) and the Water Cube (National Aquatics Center). These world-famous structures hosted the 2008 Beijing Olympics and remain symbols of modern architecture and athletic excellence.

Hotpot & Full-Body Spa: The Perfect Way to Unwind

Enjoy a delicious hotpot meal, where you cook fresh meats, seafood, and vegetables in a simmering broth. Customize your flavors with a variety of dipping sauces and enjoy this interactive dining experience loved by locals.

After the feast, relax with a full-body massage at a spa. Let go of fatigue as skilled therapists ease your muscles, the perfect way to refresh after a day of exploring.

798 Art Zone（798 艺术区）: Beijing’s Creative Hub of Modern Art

Once a factory complex, 798 Art Zone is now Beijing’s center for modern art and culture. Stroll through industrial-style streets filled with galleries, street art and quirky sculptures, offering a fresh, artistic side of the city.

Explore Beijing’s Hutong by Rickshaw

Step into Beijing’s historic hutongs, a maze of narrow alleys lined with traditional courtyard homes. These centuries-old streets offer a glimpse into local life and culture.

Hop on a rickshaw ride for a fun and relaxing way to explore, winding through hidden lanes while your guide shares stories of old Beijing. A must-do experience to see the city’s past come to life!

Qianmen Street（前门大街 qián mén dà jiē）: A Historic Walk Through Old Beijing

Step back in time as you stroll down Qianmen Street, a lively pedestrian street with over 600 years of history. Once the main commercial hub of imperial Beijing, it’s now lined with traditional shops, time-honored restaurants, and local snack stalls.

Ride the old-fashioned tram, browse for silk, tea, and souvenirs, or try famous eats like roast duck and sesame cakes. A perfect place to soak in Beijing’s old-world charm!

After breakfast, transfer to the train station for your high-speed train (bullet train)to Xi’an, a city steeped in history and culture. Sit back and enjoy the smooth journey as you cover over 1,200 kilometers in just about 5 hours (300km/h).

Big Wild Goose Pagoda（大雁塔 dà yàn tǎ）: A Landmark of Ancient Buddhism

Visit the majestic Big Wild Goose Pagoda,  an iconic Tang Dynasty (618–907 AD) architecture that has stood for over 1,300 years. This 60-meter-tall, seven-tiered marvel was constructed to store Buddhist scriptures brought back from India by the legendary monk Xuanzang. It remains a spiritual and cultural landmark, symbolizing the flourishing of Buddhism in China during the Tang Dynasty.

The Empress of the Great Tang Show & Dumpling Banquet：A Night of Culture and Flavor

Experience an unforgettable evening at the Tang Dynasty, a grand theater-restaurant designed in the opulent Tang Dynasty (618–907AD) style. Spanning over 2,000 square meters and accommodating 600 guests, its lavish decor and immersive atmosphere make it China’s very own “Las Vegas-style” performance venue.Begin with a dumpling banquet, featuring a variety of intricately shaped dumplings, each symbolizing a different meaning in Chinese tradition. Then, enjoy The Empress of the Great Tang, a large-scale Tang Palace music and dance performance that brings to life the legendary rise of China’s only female emperor, Wu Zetian. Through stunning choreography, elaborate costumes, and captivating storytelling, witness her journey from palace maiden to ruler of the empire. A feast for both the eyes and the taste buds!

 Xi’an City Wall（西安城墙 xī ān chéng qiáng）: Ride Along an Ancient Wonder

Step onto Xi’an City Wall, the largest and best-preserved ancient city wall in China, originally built in the 14th century during the Ming Dynasty(1368-1644AD). Spanning an impressive 7.5 miles (12 kilometers) and standing 39 feet (12 meters) tall, this grand structure isn’t just a wall——it’s a massive platform, wide enough at 49 feet (15 meters) for biking and even hosting parades, making it a true marvel of ancient military engineering!

Rent a bike and ride along the wide wall, enjoying panoramic views of the old city on one side and the bustling modern streets on the other. With watchtowers, gates, and battlements along the way, this ride blends history with adventure!

Terracotta Army（兵马俑 bīng mǎ yǒng）: The Eternal Army-Guardians of an Ancient Empire/The Underground Army of China’s First Emperor

Uncover one of the greatest archaeological discoveries of all time—the Terracotta Army, a jaw-dropping underground army guarding the tomb of China’s first emperor, Qin Shi Huang (221-210BC). Crafted more than 2,200 years ago, this massive army features over 8,000 life-sized warriors, horses, and chariots—each uniquely detailed, with no two faces alike. This ancient masterpiece offers a glimpse into the power and legacy of the emperor who unified China—a once-in-a-lifetime experience you’ll never forget.

Mini Terracotta Warrior Experience: Craft Your Own Ancient Soldier

Step into history with a hands-on clay sculpting experience! Learn the ancient techniques used to create the famous Terracotta Warriors, then shape and carve your own mini warrior under expert guidance.

Feel the connection to China’s past as you mold the clay, just like artisans did over 2,000 years ago. Take home your handmade figurine—a unique souvenir from Xi’an!

Optional Experience: Grand Tang Dynasty Everbright City Night Market

Step into the Grand Tang Dynasty Everbright City, where Tang-style architecture and sculptures of historical figures bring the past to life. Every few steps, street performers in traditional Tang Dynasty attire appear—musicians playing ancient instruments, dancers performing elegant routines, and warriors demonstrating martial arts. Strolling through this lively market feels like traveling back to a bustling Tang Dynasty night.

After breakfast, transfer to the train station for your high-speed train (bullet train) to Chengdu, the homeland of giant pandas and a paradise for food lovers. Sit back and relax as you travel over 700 kilometers in just about 4 hours at speeds of up to 300 km/h.

Jinli (锦里 jǐn lǐ): Chengdu’s Oldest Shopping Street

With a history dating back 1,800 years, Jinli Street was once a major commercial hub in ancient Sichuan. Today, it’s a lively destination filled with traditional shops, teahouses, and street food stalls, all set against Qing Dynasty-style wooden buildings and glowing red lanterns.

As night falls, the street comes alive with folk performances, from Sichuan opera face-changing to long-spout tea pouring. Sit in a teahouse, enjoy a cup of local tea, and soak in the old-world charm of Chengdu.

Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding: Meet China’s National Treasure

Visit the Chengdu Panda Base, home to over 100 giant pandas in a naturalistic environment. Watch them eat, play, and nap, and learn about panda conservation efforts.Arrive in the morning for the best chance to see active pandas munching on bamboo. The adorable baby pandas in the nursery are a highlight you won’t want to miss!

Sanxingdui (三星堆 sān xīng duī): A Window into a Lost Civilization

Step into the Sanxingdui Museum, where 3,000-year-old relics defy history and resemble something from another world. The massive bronze masks with wide, protruding eyes, sharp features, and eerie expressions look more like alien artifacts than ancient creations.

One of the most striking discoveries at Sanxingdui is the Bronze Sacred Tree, thought to connect heaven and earth. This towering artifact showcases advanced bronze-casting techniques, with such intricate detail and complexity that even modern technology struggles to replicate it.

Leshan Giant Buddha (乐山大佛 lè shān dà fó): The World’s Largest Stone Buddha

Stand before the Leshan Giant Buddha, a 71-meter (233-foot) tall statue carved into a cliff overlooking three rivers. Built 1,200 years ago, it was was built to calm the waters and protect passing boats.

Take a boat to see its full grandeur from the water or hike up for an up-close look at intricate carvings and a chance to touch the ancient stone.

Huanglongxi (黄龙溪huáng lóng xī): The No.1 Ancient Town in Sichuan

With a history of over 1,700 years, Huanglongxi Ancient Town is known as “The No.1 Town of Tianfu (Sichuan)”. Its stone-paved streets, stilted wooden houses and centuries-old banyan trees showcase Huanglongxi’s rich past, while the riverside setting adds to its charm.

The highlight? Water play! On hot days, visitors grab squirt guns and splash around in the shallow river—a local tradition that makes Huanglongxi famous. Don’t leave without trying its specialties: the Yigen Mian (One Continuous Noodle) and crispy Dragon Beard Candy, local favorites for generations!

After breakfast, transfer to the train station for your high-speed train (bullet train) to Chongqing, a vibrant mountain city known for its stunning skyline and spicy hotpot. Sit back and enjoy the smooth journey as you cover over 300 kilometers in just about 1.5 hours at speeds of up to 300 km/h.

Liziba (李子坝 lǐ zǐ bà): A Train Passing Through a Residential Building

Experience Chongqing’s most unique sight at Liziba, where a monorail train passes straight through the sixth floor of a residential building! This incredible design was created to save space in the city’s mountainous landscape.

Hongya Cave (洪崖洞 hóng yá dòng) : A Must-See in Chongqing’s Mountain City

Discover Hongya Cave, a stunning 11-story complex built on a cliffside using traditional Bayu stilted architecture. By night, as thousands of lights illuminate the wooden structures, the scene transforms into a real-life Spirited Away moment.

Nearby, ride the Huangguan Escalator, one of the world’s longest escalators, stretching 112 meters at a steep 30-degree angle. It’s not just a convenient shortcut—it’s a fun and unique way to experience Chongqing’s hilly terrain!

After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your flight to Shanghai, China’s bustling financial hub. 

the Bund （外滩 wài tān）:  Shanghai’s Iconic Waterfront

Kick off the day at the Bund, a 1.5-kilometer waterfront promenade where 52 historic buildings reflect Shanghai’s colonial past. Snap photos of the futuristic skyline across the Huangpu River.

Yu Garden（豫园  yù yuán）: A Hidden Garden in the Heart of Shanghai

Step into the tranquility of Yuyuan Garden, a 400-year-old Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) masterpiece with ponds, rockeries, and intricately carved pavilions.

Handmade Wonton Experience : Make and Enjoy Wontons with a Local Family

Step into a local home for a hands-on wonton-making experience. Learn to mix the filling, fold the wrappers, and perfect your technique with guidance from your host. As you cook, hear stories about family traditions and Chinese culture. Finally, sit down and enjoy a delicious, home-cooked wonton feast—a true taste of local life!

Shanghai Tower （上海中心大厦 shàng hǎi zhōng xīn dà shà）:  China’s Tallest Building

Rise above the city as you visit Shanghai Tower,the tallest building in China and the third tallest in the world, standing at 632 meters (2,073 feet). Designed as a spiraling structure resembling a dragon rising from the earth, its twisting form reduces wind resistance while symbolizing Shanghai’s rapid growth.

Hop aboard the world’s fastest elevator, racing upwards at 65 km/h, reaching the 118th-floor observation deck at 546 meters (1,791 feet) in just seconds. From the top, take in breathtaking 360-degree views of Shanghai’s skyline, from the winding Huangpu River to the iconic Bund and beyond.

Shanghai Museum （上海博物馆 shàng hǎi  bó wù guǎn）: A Treasure Trove of Chinese History

With its sleek geometric design and bold modern structure, Shanghai Museum East Campus is an architectural masterpiece that houses China’s finest cultural treasures. Inside, explore six curated galleries featuring porcelain, jade, bronze, sculpture, painting and calligraphy.The Porcelain Gallery is a must-see, displaying exquisite  blue and white porcelain that showcase China’s artistry across dynasties.

With a professional guide leading the way, you’ll have a truly enriching experience beyond just sightseeing.

Optional Experience: Night Cruise on the Huangpu River

Enhance your Shanghai experience with a Huangpu River night cruise. See the city light up in full color as you relax on deck and take in the dazzling reflections on the river. This optional tour offers a unique perspective of Shanghai at night—join if you’d like to see the city from a whole new angle!

Zhujiajiao （朱家角 zhū jiā jiǎo）: A Hidden Jiangnan Water Town in Shanghai

Tucked away in Shanghai’s modern metropolis lies Zhujiajiao, a 1,700-year-old Jiangnan water town with stone bridges, winding alleys, and tranquil canals.The highlight of your visit? A hand-rowed boat ride through Zhujiajiao’s picturesque waterways. Sit back as a boatman skillfully navigates the canals, passing under arched bridges and alongside centuries-old homes.

Local Flower and Bird Market （花鸟市场 huā niǎo shì chǎng）: A Vibrant Escape into Nature

The joy of visiting the Flower and Bird Market is simple yet profound—a break from the city’s concrete jungle.With just a small amount of money—or even none at all—you can spend hours admiring flowers, watching fish, and playing with birds.

Lush greenery and colorful aquariums line the walkways, drawing visitors of all ages. Children, especially, are captivated by the small animals—chirping crickets, playful rabbits, turtles, frogs, hedgehogs, and even lizards.

ERA Acrobatic Show: A Thrilling Spectacle in Shanghai

Get ready for an adrenaline-pumping night at ERA – Intersection of Time 2, Shanghai’s most spectacular acrobatic show! Besides featuring jaw-dropping stunts, this performance is enhanced by high-tech lighting, sound, and visual effects, delivering a stunning immersive experience for audiences. Hold your breath as seven motorcycles race at high speed inside a massive steel globe, defying gravity with heart-pounding precision.

Your guide will transfer you to the airport, marking the end of your memorable journey. Safe travels and see you next time!