12-Day China Tour: Beijing, Xi’an, Chengdu, Guilin, Shanghai

Beijing-Xi'an-Chengdu-Guilin-Shanghai 12-Day Tour

Great Wall, Terracotta Army, Pandas, Li River, The Bund

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Beijing-Xi'an-Chengdu-Guilin-Shanghai 12-Day Tour

China boasts diverse landscapes, a long history, brilliant culture, and adorable rare animals. So, which places best represent China? If you are visiting China for the first time, what do you most look forward to seeing? Beijing’s Forbidden City and Great Wall, Xi’an’s Terracotta Army, Shanghai’s The Bund, and Chengdu’s Giant Pandas are often iconic symbols of China. Would you be willing to spend two days immersing yourself in the picturesque natural scenery of Guilin and Yangshuo? If you are interested, this classic 12-day tour of China is perfect for you.

You will first arrive in Beijing to explore magnificent imperial palaces and gardens, ascend the majestic Great Wall, and wander through traditional hutong alleys; then head to Xi’an to experience historical wonders like the Terracotta Army and the Big Wild Goose Pagoda up close; next, visit Chengdu to interact with adorable Giant Pandas. Continue this relaxing journey to fully appreciate the karst landscape and pastoral poetry of Guilin and Yangshuo. Your final stop will be Shanghai—a city whose traditional cultural heritage and modern development achievements are equally admirable. Start this journey and create your own beautiful memories in China!

Through this visit, you can experience the "must-see and must-do"

Highlight 1: Stroll through the Forbidden City, visit the Summer Palace, and listen to the imperial secrets and garden legends of the Ming and Qing dynasties amidst red walls, yellow tiles, and pavilions.

Highlight 2: Climb the less crowded, scenic, and well-preserved wild Great Wall, and enjoy panoramic views of the magnificent mountains and rivers.

Highlight 3: Step into a history classroom and marvel at 8,000 life-sized Terracotta Warriors.

Highlight 4: Welcome to Chengdu, see adorable Giant Pandas and newborn panda cubs with your own eyes in their hometown; experience the slow life in Chengdu's parks and teahouses, and taste authentic Sichuan cuisine.

Highlight 5: Cruise down the Li River from Guilin to Yangshuo, enjoying endless picturesque karst landscapes along the way, immersing yourself in the pastoral scenery of Yangshuo, and embracing nature.

Highlight 6: Stroll along the Bund promenade, gaze at the magnificent skyline formed by Pudong's skyscrapers, and experience the century-old charm and modern prosperity of both sides of the Huangpu River.

Itinerary Overview

Beijing (4 Days)
Forbidden City, Mutianyu Great Wall, Tiananmen Square, Summer Palace, Bird's Nest & Water Cube
Xi'an (2 Days)
Terracotta Army, Big Wild Goose Pagoda, Ancient City Wall, Muslim Quarter, Shaanxi History Museum
Chengdu (2 Days)
Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, Wenshu Monastery, People's Park, Jinli Ancient Street
Guilin (2 Days)
Li River Cruise (Guilin-Yangshuo Section), Yangshuo Countryside Scenery, West Street, Elephant Trunk Hill, Reed Flute Cave
Shanghai (2 Days)
Shanghai Museum, Yu Garden, The Bund, Nanjing Road, Shanghai Tower

Daily Itinerary

Day 1 Arrival in Beijing | Airport Transfer & Hotel Check-in

Hello! Welcome to Beijing, the capital of China! Upon your arrival at Beijing Airport or Train Station, your guide and driver will be waiting for you at the exit to escort you to your selected hotel in the city center. The rest of the day is yours to relax, adjust to the time difference, or explore the area around your hotel at your leisure.

【Arrival Guide】
Beijing has well-developed air and high-speed rail transportation. There are two airports in the city – Beijing Daxing International Airport and Beijing Capital International Airport, serving numerous international and domestic routes. You can fly to Beijing from most domestic cities (such as Hong Kong, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Chengdu, Xi’an, Guilin, Hangzhou, Kunming, Wuhan, Xiamen, Guiyang, Chongqing, Lanzhou, etc.). Alternatively, you can take a high-speed train to Beijing: approximately 4-5 hours from Xi’an, 4.5-6 hours from Shanghai, 2.5-3 hours from Zhengzhou, 4-5 hours from Wuhan, 5-5.5 hours from Harbin, etc.

【Free Time】
After checking into your hotel, if you wish to explore the surroundings, feel free to ask your guide for insider tips. Whether it’s heading to Wangfujing Street for authentic snacks, experiencing the hutong culture of old Beijing in Shichahai, or watching the flag-lowering ceremony at Tiananmen Square, your guide can tailor recommendations based on your interests and time.

Day 2 Beijing City Tour | Visit Tiananmen Square, Stroll through the Forbidden City, Wander through Old Beijing Hutongs

After breakfast, your guide will pick you up from your hotel and take you to Tiananmen Square, the world’s largest urban public square and a symbol of China. Over the past decades, it has witnessed many significant historical events in China. Walking across the square, you will be amazed by the grandeur and magnificence of the Forbidden City (Palace Museum). As the world’s largest and best-preserved ancient imperial palace complex, it was home to 24 emperors of China. This imperial garden with 8,728 rooms is not only an architectural masterpiece of Chinese civilization but also a “city within a city,” akin to the Vatican in Rome. Entering through the Meridian Gate, proceed slowly along the central axis, visiting various exquisite palaces. With your guide’s explanations, you will not only admire the brilliant ancient architecture and countless treasures but also hear the stories of emperors hidden within the red walls and yellow tiles. Afterward, move to Jingshan Park, just a 15-minute walk away. Ascend to the Wanchun Pavilion for a panoramic view of modern Beijing and the continuous golden rooftops of the Forbidden City.

In the afternoon, let’s wander through the old Beijing hutongs and experience authentic local life in a leisurely exploration. Ride a traditional rickshaw through the winding alleys, with characteristic shops lining both sides, telling stories of ancient urban life.

Evening Recommendation (Optional): You can visit Quanjude to taste the world-renowned Peking Duck.

Tiananmen Square, Beijing

Forbidden City, Beijing

Day 3 Beijing Great Wall Tour | Mutianyu Great Wall, Bird's Nest & Water Cube

This morning, you will head to the Mutianyu Great Wall, located northwest of Beijing (73 kilometers from the city, about 1.5-2 hours by car). The Great Wall has a history of over 2,000 years, spanning multiple provinces in northern China with a total length exceeding 3,000 miles, making it one of the world’s most breathtaking ancient engineering marvels. Mutianyu Great Wall connects Jiankou Great Wall to the west and Gubeikou Great Wall to the east. It is the best-preserved and most fully restored section of the Great Wall, with relatively fewer tourists and renowned for its 23 Ming Dynasty watchtowers and magnificent scenery. You will take a cable car directly to the 14th watchtower to begin an unforgettable Great Wall hiking experience, focusing on the western section. Surrounded by lush pines and cypresses, the winding Great Wall stands majestically on the vast land, offering you the most stunning natural scenery. Challenge yourself by climbing to the 20th watchtower to fulfill your Great Wall dream. Cherish this rare opportunity and take plenty of photos!

After bidding farewell to this soul-stirring historical wonder, we return to Beijing city, passing by the Olympic landmarks – the Bird’s Nest (National Stadium) and the Water Cube (National Aquatics Center). These two Olympic venues have witnessed China’s dual Olympic glory from the 2008 Summer Olympics to the 2022 Winter Olympics. Stop for exterior photos to capture Olympic memories. After the tour, you will be driven back to your hotel, and tonight you will surely sleep soundly with memories of the Great Wall.

Mutianyu Great Wall, Beijing

Bird’s Nest, Beijing

Day 4 Beijing to Xi'an High-Speed Train | Summer Palace

After breakfast, drive to the “Imperial Garden Museum” – the Summer Palace. This was once a summer resort for the imperial family. The landscapes, temples, gardens, pavilions, corridors, lakes, stone bridges, and city gates within the park are treasures of garden art. You can stroll leisurely, savor the magnificent charm of imperial architecture, gaze at the mountain and lake scenery, and experience a pastoral mood like a traditional Chinese landscape painting.

After the tour, you will be driven to the train station to take a high-speed train to Xi’an (approximately 4.5-5.5 hours). Welcome to Xi’an, a historic city that has witnessed the rise and fall of thirteen dynasties! Upon arrival at Xi’an Railway Station, your guide and driver will greet you at the exit and escort you to your hotel for check-in.

Summer Palace, Beijing

Day 5 Xi'an City Tour | Terracotta Army, Ancient City Wall, Muslim Quarter

After breakfast, your guide and driver will pick you up from your hotel and drive about 40 kilometers (about 1 hour) to visit one of the world’s greatest archaeological discoveries – the Terracotta Army Museum of Emperor Qin Shi Huang. This magnificent underground army was ordered to be built by Emperor Qin Shi Huang to guard his afterlife. Approximately 8,000 life-sized terracotta figures have been unearthed so far. First, visit Pit 1, the largest pit, which displays over 6,000 warrior figures and horses. The orderly rows of terracotta figures stand silently for thousands of years, showcasing the majesty of guarding the emperor and the exquisite artistry of Qin Dynasty craftsmen. Afterward, move to Pit 2, which houses over 1,000 Terracotta Warriors. You will see the archer formations composed of kneeling and standing archers, witness the grandeur of the chariot formations, and observe the heroic postures of the armed soldiers. (Special Note: If you are interested, you can also try making miniature Terracotta Warriors yourself.)

After lunch, return to the city center to visit the most complete ancient city wall architecture – the Xi’an City Wall. This military defense system integrates moats, watchtowers, and corner towers. It is not only the largest and oldest ancient city defense project in China but also an excellent viewing platform overlooking the new look of the ancient city. You can stroll leisurely along the city wall, appreciate the beauty of the inner and outer walls, and gaze at the prosperity of modern Xi’an. (Optional Experience: If you wish to experience cycling on the city wall, please inform your dedicated travel consultant in advance.)

In the evening, step into the bustling Muslim Quarter, feeling the vibrant pulse of local life on the bluestone pavement. This ancient alley, gathering Halal cuisine and diverse cultures, is a paradise for foodies and an excellent place to touch the pulse of the ancient city.

Terracotta Army, Xi’an

Ancient City Wall, Xi’an

Day 6 Xi'an to Chengdu High-Speed Train | Shaanxi History Museum

This morning, your guide and driver will pick you up from your hotel and take you to the Shaanxi History Museum. This art palace, known as the “Pearl of the Ancient Capital, Treasure of Chinese Civilization,” houses over 130,000 historical relics, showcasing the condensed Chinese civilization and brilliant ancient culture to the world. During your visit, you will admire precious cultural relics such as Zhou Dynasty bronzes, Qin Dynasty Terracotta Warriors, and gold and silver items and murals unearthed from Tang Dynasty tombs, experiencing the profound cultural heritage. Afterward, we will visit the Big Wild Goose Pagoda, a Tang Dynasty building located within Ci’en Temple, which is an iconic landmark of Xi’an.

After the tour, you will be taken to the train station to take a high-speed train to Chengdu (about 3.5-4 hours). Upon arrival in Chengdu, your guide will meet you at the train station exit and escort you to your hotel in the city center for check-in. The rest of the day is free for you to explore Chengdu, the city famous for its “Giant Pandas” and “Sichuan Cuisine,” and get a preliminary feel for its unique charm. In the evening, why not try authentic Sichuan hot pot or enjoy a spectacular Sichuan opera face-changing performance.

Shaanxi History Museum, Xi’an

Big Wild Goose Pagoda, Xi’an

Day 7 Chengdu Giant Panda Breeding Research Base, Jinli Ancient Street

After breakfast, you will embark on a journey to fulfill your panda dreams, driving 17 kilometers to the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding. Also known as the Chengdu Panda Base, it is home to over 100 Giant Pandas, making it the place with the largest captive population of Giant Pandas in the world. Here you will see Giant Pandas of different ages, watch them play, eat, climb, and sleep… endless fun. If you visit in autumn, you may have the chance to see pink newborn panda cubs in the Sun Nursery and Moon Nursery. Besides Giant Pandas, you can also encounter adorable Red Pandas in the Red Panda enclosure, who might walk past you leisurely. Afterward, follow your guide into the Panda Museum to further explore the mysteries of Giant Pandas. (Warm Tip: Giant Pandas prefer cool weather, so it is recommended to arrive early as the pandas are most active in the morning.)

Then, you will visit Wenshu Monastery, Chengdu’s best-preserved Buddhist temple, to experience a peaceful and serene atmosphere. Next, visit Chengdu’s People’s Park to experience the city’s leisurely lifestyle and the daily lives of locals. Order a cup of fragrant “gaiwan” tea at a century-old teahouse, chat with friends, and watch locals play mahjong and enjoy themselves, which is a unique experience. Finally, return to the city center and stroll leisurely along Jinli Ancient Street. This ancient street, with a history of over 1,800 years, vividly showcases the profound cultural heritage of the ancient Shu Kingdom. Walking on the traditional bluestone pavement, with a dazzling array of authentic snacks, exquisite handicrafts, and interesting folk performances on both sides, it is a place that makes people linger.

Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, Chengdu

Jinli Ancient Street, Chengdu

Day 8 Chengdu Flight to Guilin

After breakfast, you will have some free time, after which your guide and driver will accompany you to the airport for a flight to Guilin (approximately 2.5 hours). Upon arrival in Guilin, your guide will meet you at the airport exit and escort you to your hotel in Guilin city for check-in. The rest of the time is yours to arrange. We recommend taking a stroll along Binjiang Road, enjoying a bowl of authentic Guilin rice noodles, and savoring the leisurely time.

Li Riverbank Scenery, Guilin

Li River Scenery, Guilin

Day 9 Guilin to Yangshuo Tour | Li River Cruise, Yangshuo Countryside Scenery, West Street

“Guilin’s landscape is the best in the world.” After breakfast, you will embark on a journey to explore the most stunning natural scenery along the Li River. The Li River has been rated as one of the “Top Ten Water Wonders of the World” by National Geographic magazine. Drive about 1 hour from the hotel to the pier and begin a relaxing Li River cruise to Yangshuo, lasting about 4.5 hours. Along the 84-kilometer route, you will witness a series of flowing Chinese landscape paintings: winding rivers, countless green karst limestone peaks, leisurely water buffaloes, farmers working in fertile fields, and pastoral villages nestled by the mountains and water. (Warm Tip: A simple local Chinese boxed lunch will be provided on the cruise.)

Upon arrival in Yangshuo, your driver will pick you up at the pier and take you to your hotel in Yangshuo town for a short rest. Afterward, it’s time for an impressive exploration of the Yangshuo countryside, enjoying the beautiful pastoral scenery. You can choose to ride a bicycle or rent an electric scooter, weaving through postcard-like karst peaks and rice paddies, passing through quiet villages, and letting the picturesque scenery delight your eyes and soul to the fullest, allowing you to relax completely.

In the evening, you will leisurely stroll along Yangshuo’s most bustling West Street. Restaurants, bars, and souvenir shops line the street, always bustling with guests. It is a meeting point of Chinese and Western cultures and the best place for your nightlife. Whether you want to enjoy a cup of aromatic coffee, taste authentic cuisine, or simply immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere… it can satisfy you here.

Li River Cruise, Yangshuo

Yangshuo Countryside Experience

Day 10 Guilin Flight to Shanghai | Elephant Trunk Hill, Reed Flute Cave

After breakfast, drive back to Guilin to continue the tour. First, visit the symbol of Guilin – Elephant Trunk Hill. It is located at the confluence of the Li River and the Taohua River and resembles an elephant drinking water by the river. Afterward, you will visit Reed Flute Cave, a typical karst landscape. The stalactites and stalagmites inside the cave are varied, some resembling animals, others plants. When the colorful neon lights are turned on, you will feel like you are in a crystal palace.

After the tour, you will be taken to the airport for a flight to Shanghai (approximately 2.5 hours). Welcome to Shanghai, China’s most international and vibrant city! Upon arrival in Shanghai, your guide will meet you at the airport exit and escort you to your hotel in the city center for check-in. After checking in, you will have free time.

Elephant Trunk Hill, Guilin

Reed Flute Cave, Guilin

Day 11 Shanghai City Tour | Shanghai Museum, Yu Garden, Nanjing Road & The Bund

This morning, you will visit the Shanghai Museum, embarking on a soul-stirring art journey to appreciate top-tier collections and delve into China’s profound history. The exterior of the Shanghai Museum resembles an ancient bronze cooking vessel – a Ding, with a round top and a square base, symbolizing “the round sky and the square earth.” The museum houses 120,000 relics spanning 5,000 years of history, fully showcasing the artistic treasures of China. You will immerse yourself in the bronze and ceramic exhibition halls, admiring exquisite bronzes and ingenious ceramic treasures. Don’t miss the two treasures of the museum – the bronze ritual vessel Da Ke Ding, over 3,000 years old, and the Marquis Su Bianzhong (ancient percussion instrument).

Afterward, move to the classical garden gem hidden in the bustling city – Yu Garden. Stroll leisurely through it, admiring the typical Jiangnan garden architecture, and savor the exquisite wood carvings, stone carvings, and brick carvings, which are a feast for the eyes. The Yu Garden Bazaar outside is also full of fun, where you can taste authentic local snacks and purchase exquisite traditional handicrafts and artworks.

Next, you will stroll along Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street, lined with numerous famous stores, restaurants, cafes, and souvenir shops, with skyscrapers standing side by side. Continue forward to reach The Bund, the top of Shanghai’s must-visit list. Known as the “Exhibition of International Architecture,” The Bund features 52 buildings of various styles. Gazing across the river, you can see the skyline and skyscrapers of Lujiazui in Pudong. The last stop of today’s itinerary is to ascend Shanghai Tower, China’s tallest and the world’s second-tallest building – a staggering 632 meters high. Take the elevator directly to the 118th floor, 546 meters above the ground, for a panoramic view of modern Shanghai and the dazzling cityscape.

The Bund facing the Oriental Pearl Tower, Shanghai

Yu Garden, Shanghai

Day 12 Departure from Shanghai | Hotel Check-out & Airport Transfer

Your 12-day tour of China comes to an end. You will then have free time in Shanghai to explore the city’s charm at your own pace. Afterward, our guide will take you to the airport or train station to catch your flight or high-speed train to your next destination.

Thank you for choosing Maple Leaf Travel to start your China tour. We are always committed to providing you with quality service and look forward to meeting you again on your next trip to China or Asia!

Airport Transfer

Safe return home after your China tour.

Price: What's Included & Excluded

What’s Included?

Experienced Driver & Air-Conditioned Vehicle
Professional Licensed English-Speaking Guide
Hotel Accommodation with Breakfast
Domestic Flights (Economy Class) or High-Speed Trains (Second Class) as listed in the itinerary
Entrance Fees, Activities, and Meals as listed in the itinerary
Accident Insurance
We provide comprehensive services from itinerary planning and operational reception to the end of the journey

What’s Not Included?

International Airfare
Entry Visa Fees
Personal Expenses
Single Room Supplement
Recommended Optional Activities
Arrival & Departure Transfer Services
Tips for Driver and Guide

Important Itinerary Notes for Booking a Private China Tour

How do I book a private China tour?

Booking a private China tour is very simple. Select the tour group you are interested in and click “Free Consultation.” Please tell us your requirements and preferences when submitting the form. You do not need to pay immediately during this process. After sending your request, our professional travel experts will reply within 0.5 to 24 hours. You will only make a deposit after all information is confirmed. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact the travel expert directly.

Extend Your China Trip

The itinerary above is a sample that most travelers choose. Tours can be customized according to your preferences, interests, and budget. Also, if you want to extend this trip, just tell us your preferred destinations and activities. Our professional travel experts will completely redesign the itinerary for you and your team at the best price. Tell us your ideas now >>

Transportation

Private tours mean you will travel by private vehicle to tourist attractions in a city. The private cars we choose are spacious, comfortable, and air-conditioned. And the drivers we use are experienced. As for travel between two destinations, we use domestic flights (economy class seats) or high-speed trains (second-class seats, usually less than 6 hours). Local guides and drivers will pick you up at the airport and train station and escort you to the hotel.

Meals

“B” stands for breakfast. You will get it at your hotel tomorrow morning.

“L” stands for lunch. The restaurants we arrange for you are designated tourist restaurants approved by the local tourism administration. All of these places are in good sanitary condition. Your guide will assist you in ordering dishes.

“D” stands for dinner. All dinners are not included in the itinerary. You have the opportunity to taste authentic Chinese food and local snacks.

If you have special dietary needs (vegetarian, halal, kosher, Indian, or gluten-free), please inform us before booking. We will do our best to accommodate you.

Accommodation and Hotel Conditions for Your China Trip

Photo Album of This Itinerary

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