Beijing-Xi'an-Lhasa-Guilin-Chengdu-Chongqing
-Yangtze-Shanghai 19 Days Tour
Great Wall, Terracotta Army, Potala Palace, Li River, Pandas,
Hongyadong, Yangtze, Three Gorges, The Bund
Beijing-Xi'an-Lhasa-Guilin-Chengdu-Chongqing-Yangtze-Shanghai 19 Days Tour
China is a vast country with a rich and diverse culture and breathtaking natural scenery. On this 19-day journey, you will explore many of China’s most exquisite attractions and experience all the highlights at once! The itinerary begins in Beijing and ends in Shanghai, covering 8 destinations including Xi’an, Tibet, Guilin, Chengdu, Chongqing, as well as the Yangtze River Three Gorges and the Three Gorges Dam.
We have carefully selected all the must-see destinations in China for you to deeply explore the soul of this ancient and mysterious country. Immerse yourself in natural beauty, marvel at the rich culture, experience the awe-inspiring long history, embark on a journey of true discovery on the roof of the world, and feel the mysterious Tibetan Buddhist culture. Step into the Panda Kingdom – the true hometown of giant pandas, and get up close with these beloved national treasures and their cubs. A five-star Yangtze River cruise from Chongqing to Yichang will take you through Central China, enjoying the beautiful scenery of the Three Gorges, adding a relaxing and enjoyable touch to your long Chinese holiday, an unmissable experience in China. Follow Fenglin International Travel to explore all the wonders of China!
Through this visit, you can experience the "must-see and must-do"
Highlight 1: Ascend to the Roof of the World and pay devout homage to the Potala Palace. This magnificent complex, consisting of the Red Palace and the White Palace, stands majestically on Red Hill. In front of the Jokhang Temple, you can witness local Tibetan Buddhist devotees performing their devout pilgrimages.
Highlight 2: Venture out of Lhasa city to visit two of the three great monasteries of the Gelug school of Tibetan Buddhism - Drepung Monastery and Sera Monastery. Within these two magnificent Buddhist architectural complexes, feel the strong religious atmosphere and witness firsthand the famous debates among monks on Buddhist doctrines.
Highlight 3: Stroll through the Forbidden City and visit the Summer Palace. Amidst the red walls, yellow tiles, pavilions, and towers, listen to the secret imperial histories and garden legends of the Ming and Qing dynasties.
Highlight 4: Climb the less crowded, scenic, and well-preserved wild Great Wall to take in panoramic views of the magnificent mountains and rivers.
Highlight 5: Step into a history classroom and marvel at 8,000 life-sized Terracotta Warriors.
Highlight 6: Welcome to Chengdu, the hometown of pandas, where you can see adorable giant pandas and newborn panda cubs with your own eyes; experience the slow life in Chengdu's parks and teahouses, and taste authentic Sichuan cuisine.
Highlight 7: Take a boat trip down the Li River from Guilin to Yangshuo, enjoying endless picturesque karst landscapes along the way, immersing yourself in the idyllic rural scenery of Yangshuo, and embracing nature to your heart's content.
Highlight 8: Board a five-star luxury cruise ship and embark on a relaxing Yangtze River journey. Starting from Chongqing and sailing downstream to Yichang, you will enjoy the magnificent scenery of the Three Gorges and witness the world-famous Three Gorges Dam with your own eyes.
Highlight 9: Stroll along the Bund promenade, gaze at the magnificent skyline formed by Pudong's skyscrapers, and experience the century-old charm and modern prosperity on both sides of the Huangpu River.
Itinerary Overview
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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 -
Lhasa (3 Days)
Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, Barkhor Street, Drepung Monastery, Sera Monastery -
Guilin (2 Days)
Li River Cruise (Guilin to Yangshuo section), Yangshuo countryside scenery, West Street, Elephant Trunk Hill, Reed Flute Cave -
Chengdu (2 Days)
Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, Wenshu Monastery, People's Park, Jinli Ancient Street -
Chongqing (1 Day)
Three Gorges Museum, Hongyadong, Eling Park, Chongqing Chaotianmen Wharf -
Yangtze River Three Gorges Cruise (3 Days)
Yangtze River Three Gorges (including Qutang Gorge, Wu Gorge, and Xiling Gorge), Three Gorges Dam, Shibaozhai, Goddess Stream -
Shanghai (2 Days)
Shanghai Museum, Yu Garden, The Bund, Nanjing Road, Shanghai Tower
Daily Itinerary
Day 1 Arrival in Beijing | Private Transfer and 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 free for you to rest and adjust to the time difference, or explore the area around your hotel at your leisure.
【Arrival Guide】
Beijing has convenient 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 major cities in China (such as Hong Kong, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Chengdu, Xi’an, Guilin, Hangzhou, Kunming, Wuhan, Xiamen, Guiyang, Chongqing, Lanzhou, etc.). Alternatively, you can take the 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, and 5-5.5 hours from Harbin.
【Free Time】
After checking into your hotel, if you wish to explore the surroundings, feel free to ask your guide for exclusive tips. Whether it’s heading to Wangfujing Street for authentic snacks, experiencing the charm of old Beijing’s hutongs in Shichahai, or watching the flag-lowering ceremony at Tiananmen Square, your guide can tailor the most suitable itinerary based on your interests and time.
Day 2 Beijing City Tour | Visit Tiananmen Square, Stroll through the Forbidden City, Explore 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. Crossing the square, you will be amazed by the grandeur and magnificence of the Forbidden City (Palace Museum). As the largest and best-preserved ancient imperial palace complex in the world, it was once home to 24 emperors of China. This imperial garden, with its 8,728 rooms, is not only an architectural masterpiece that embodies Chinese civilization but also a “city within a city,” akin to the Vatican in Rome. Entering through the Meridian Gate and proceeding along the central axis, you will visit various exquisite palaces. With your guide’s explanation, you will not only admire the brilliant ancient architectural art and countless rare treasures but also listen to 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 breathtaking 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 Beijing life at a leisurely pace. Ride a traditional rickshaw through the winding alleys, where characteristic shops on both sides tell stories of the city’s ancient folk customs.
Evening Recommendation (Optional): You can visit Quanjude to taste the world-renowned Peking Duck.
Tiananmen, 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, with over 2,000 years of history, spans multiple provinces in northern China, with a total length exceeding 3,000 miles, making it one of the world’s most astonishing 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, not only with relatively fewer tourists but also famous 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 pine and cypress trees, the winding Great Wall stands majestically on the vast land, offering the most stunning natural scenery. Challenge yourself by climbing to the 20th watchtower to fulfill your Great Wall dream. Please cherish this rare opportunity and take plenty of photos!
After bidding farewell to this soul-stirring historical wonder, we return to the urban area of Beijing, 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 transferred back to your hotel by private car, 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, admire the mountain and lake scenery, and experience a pastoral mood like a traditional Chinese landscape painting.
After the tour, you will be taken to the train station by private car to take the 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 then transfer you to your hotel.
Summer Palace, Beijing
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 the First 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 and horse figures. The orderly rows of terracotta figures stand silently for millennia, exuding the majesty of guarding the imperial palace and showcasing the exquisite artistry of Qin Dynasty craftsmen. Then, move to Pit 2, which houses over a thousand figures. You will witness the impressive formations of archers, including kneeling and standing archers, the grand formation of chariots and horses, and the heroic posture of armed soldiers. (Special Note: If you are interested, you can also try making miniature terracotta figures yourself.)
After lunch, return to the city to visit the most complete ancient city wall in China – the Xi’an Ming 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 vantage point for overlooking the new look of the ancient city. You can leisurely walk along the city wall, appreciate the beauty of the inner and outer walls, and overlook 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, filled with the aroma of food, and feel the vibrant pulse of urban life on the bluestone pavement. This ancient alley, gathering Halal cuisine and diverse cultures, is not only a paradise for foodies but also an excellent place to touch the pulse of the ancient city.
Terracotta Army, Xi’an
Ancient City Wall, Xi’an
Day 6 Xi'an City Tour | Shaanxi History Museum, Big Wild Goose Pagoda & Ancient City Wall
This morning, your guide and driver will pick you up from your hotel and take you to visit the **Shaanxi History Museum**. Known as the “Pearl of the Ancient Capital and Treasure of China,” this museum houses 130,000 historical artifacts, showcasing a microcosm of China’s millennia-long history and the essence of ancient civilization. During your visit, you can learn about Western Zhou bronzes, Qin Dynasty Terracotta Warriors, and precious artifacts such as gold and silver wares and murals unearthed from Tang Dynasty tombs. Afterward, you will visit the Big Wild Goose Pagoda, a Tang Dynasty structure located within Ci’en Temple, which is an iconic landmark of Xi’an.
After lunch, you will leisurely visit the **Ancient City Wall** (also known as the Xi’an City Wall). The city wall is an ancient defensive structure and one of the largest and best-preserved ancient city walls in China. You can stroll leisurely on the city wall, admire the inner and outer walls, watchtowers, and moats, and overlook the panoramic view of modern Xi’an.
Shaanxi History Museum, Xi’an
Big Wild Goose Pagoda, Xi’an
Day 7 Fly from Xi'an to Lhasa
After breakfast, you will have some free time to explore Xi’an city on your own. Afterward, our guide will take you to the airport to catch a flight to Lhasa (approximately 3.5 hours).
Tashi Delek! Welcome to Lhasa, the capital of the Tibet Autonomous Region! Upon your arrival at Lhasa Airport, our guide and driver will greet you with a sign at the exit and then safely transfer you to your hotel in the city. It is recommended that you rest well today to gradually adapt to the high-altitude environment of 3650 meters, conserve your energy, and prepare for the exciting itinerary tomorrow.
Warm Reminder:
To effectively prevent altitude sickness, it is recommended to slow down your pace, keep warm, and drink water in small amounts frequently. Please do not shower for the first 1-2 days after arrival, maintain a relaxed mindset, and ensure sufficient sleep.
Please be sure to prepare for altitude adaptation according to your physical condition and doctor’s advice.
If you feel unwell or need assistance, please inform your guide or hotel staff promptly. Local service staff are experienced and always happy to help.
Potala Palace, Tibet
Potala Palace, Tibet
Day 8 Lhasa Tour | Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, Barkhor Street
Today, you will explore Lhasa in depth, experiencing the glorious architecture, profound culture, and brilliant history embodied in two World Cultural Heritage sites. Afterward, you can stroll through the famous Barkhor Street and experience the daily life of Tibetan compatriots performing kora (circumambulation) together with local people.
In the morning, you will enter the Potala Palace, the traditional residence and winter palace of successive Dalai Lamas (1649-1959). You need to climb 365 steps from the main entrance to reach its highest point, the Red Palace, at an altitude of 3700 meters on the Roof of the World. Walking through the Red Palace, you will admire the main halls, stupa halls, and chapels of successive Dalai Lamas. You will undoubtedly be shocked and moved by its extraordinary murals, magnificent treasures, exquisite carvings, splendid decorations, and the mysterious legends behind the artifacts. Inside the palace, you will encounter many Tibetan pilgrims who have traveled thousands of miles, making this their lifelong pilgrimage destination and praying devoutly. You can also ask your guide to share more stories about King Songtsen Gampo, the 33rd ruler of the Tibetan Empire, who first built the Potala Palace in the 7th century to welcome Princess Wencheng of the Tang Dynasty.
Please note: We will adjust the tour order flexibly according to your Potala Palace reservation time. All visitors must tour with the group and complete the visit within one hour. Photography is not allowed inside the palace.
After visiting the Potala Palace, the backdrop for the 50 RMB banknote, you will proceed to the Jokhang Temple, a World Cultural Heritage site with a history of 1300 years and the spiritual center of Tibetan Buddhism. Legend has it that the Jokhang Temple was built to enshrine the two wives of Songtsen Gampo, Princess Wencheng of the Tang Dynasty and Princess Bhrikuti of Nepal. “Jokhang” means “House of Buddha,” and the temple houses the most precious statue in the Buddhist world – the 12-year-old statue of Shakyamuni Buddha. For this reason, Buddhist followers regard it as the most sacred ultimate pilgrimage destination. Witnessing devotees prostrating before the temple day and night, time seems to stand still here.
Afterward, you can move to the bustling Barkhor Street next to the Jokhang Temple. This place, once a sacred path for Buddhist pilgrims, has now developed into a prosperous local market. Here you can drink a cup of fragrant butter tea, change into traditional Tibetan clothing for photos, or select local Tibetan, Nepalese, and Indian handicrafts and souvenirs.
Potala Palace, Tibet
Jokhang Temple, Tibet
Day 9 Lhasa Cultural Tour | Drepung Monastery & Sera Monastery
Today, you will experience a cultural tour of Lhasa, visiting two important monastic universities of the Gelug school of Tibetan Buddhism, known as the “Three Great Monasteries” – Drepung Monastery and Sera Monastery.
In the morning, drive about 35 minutes (12 kilometers) to Drepung Monastery. This was once the largest monastery of the Gelug school (Yellow Hat sect) of Tibetan Buddhism and the residence of successive Dalai Lamas before they moved to the Potala Palace in the 17th century. Today, Drepung Monastery is most famous for the Shoton Festival held annually in August. During the festival, devotees offer yogurt to monks who have completed 100 days of retreat, and you can witness the spectacular scene of giant Thangkas (Buddhist scroll paintings) being unfurled during the Buddha-showing ceremony. In addition to its unique architectural complex and breathtaking halls, you can also witness the monks engaging in debates with exaggerated gestures and stomping their feet, vividly demonstrating the lively and profound study tradition of Tibetan Buddhism. After the visit, you will participate in a Tibetan cultural workshop for about two hours, including an introduction to Tibetan culture, Tibetan incense making, and woodblock printing techniques.
In the afternoon, drive about 40 minutes (14 kilometers) to Sera Monastery. As you enter this monastery, you will find that the white flagstones and pathways here have a touch of Mediterranean charm. The most attractive highlight of Sera Monastery is the debate session held from 3 PM to 5 PM (except Sundays). Monks engage in discussions through a unique debate format: the questioner stands and poses questions, while the seated respondent(s) must answer. The standing questioner may use gestures like clapping hands or stomping feet; these actions are not meant as provocation but have special meanings, such as awakening wisdom or dispelling laziness. Afterward, drive back to the hotel.
Drepung Monastery, Tibet
Sera Monastery, Tibet
Day 10 Fly from Lhasa to Guilin
Today you can explore Lhasa city at your leisure. Afterward, your guide and driver will take you to the airport to catch a flight to Guilin (approximately 3 hours).
Upon arrival in Guilin, your guide will greet you at the train station exit and escort you to your hotel in the city. After checking in, you will have free time. A leisurely stroll along **Binjiang Road** or enjoying a bowl of authentic **Guilin rice noodles** are both excellent leisure options.
Li Riverbank Scenery, Guilin
Li River Scenery, Guilin
Day 11 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 your hotel to the pier and begin a relaxing **Li River cruise** of about 4.5 hours to Yangshuo. During the 84-kilometer journey, you will be captivated by a flowing Chinese landscape painting: the winding river, countless verdant karst limestone peaks, leisurely water buffaloes, farmers working in fertile fields, and pastoral villages nestled by the mountains and water. (Warm Tip: A simple Chinese boxed lunch will be provided on the cruise.)
After arriving 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 rural 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 on both sides of the street are always full of guests. This 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… West Street can satisfy you.
Li River Cruise, Yangshuo
Yangshuo Countryside Experience
Day 12 Fly from Guilin to Chengdu | Elephant Trunk Hill, Reed Flute Cave
After breakfast, drive back to Guilin to continue your tour. First, visit Guilin’s symbol – **Elephant Trunk Hill**. Located at the confluence of the Li River and Taohua River, it 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 and lifelike, some resembling animals, others plants. When the colorful neon lights are turned on, you will feel as if you are in a crystal palace.
After the tour, you will be transferred to the airport to catch a flight to Chengdu (approximately 2 hours). Welcome to Chengdu! Upon arrival, your guide will pick you up and transfer you to your hotel in the city for check-in. The rest of the time is free for you to relax and experience this city famous for being the “hometown of pandas” and “culinary capital.” It is recommended to experience authentic Sichuan hot pot and Sichuan opera face-changing performance in the evening.
Elephant Trunk Hill, Guilin
Reed Flute Cave, Guilin
Day 13 Chengdu Giant Panda Breeding Research Base, Jinli Ancient Street | Fly from Chengdu to Zhangjiajie
After breakfast, we will drive 17 kilometers to the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding to fulfill your panda dream. 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. You will see pandas of different ages, watch them play, eat, climb, and sleep soundly… endless fun. If you visit in autumn, you may even have the chance to see pink newborn panda cubs in the Sun and Moon delivery rooms. In addition to giant pandas, you can also see adorable red pandas roaming around you in the “Red Panda Activity Area.” Afterwards, follow your guide through the Panda Museum to learn more about the secrets of pandas. (Warm reminder: Pandas prefer cool weather, so it is recommended to arrive as early as possible in the morning, as pandas are more active in the morning.)
Afterwards, head to Wenshu Monastery, Chengdu’s best-preserved Buddhist temple, to experience its tranquil and serene atmosphere. Then, visit People’s Park to personally experience the leisurely pace of life and the daily pastimes of the citizens of Chengdu. Order a cup of fragrant Gaiwan tea at the century-old Heming Tea House, chat with friends, and enjoy watching locals play mahjong and “Bai Long Men Zhen” (a form of casual chat). Afterwards, return to the city and take a leisurely stroll along Jinli Ancient Street. This ancient street boasts a history of over 1800 years, vividly showcasing the profound heritage of ancient Shu culture. Stroll along the traditional flagstone paths, lined with a dazzling array of authentic snacks, exquisite handicrafts, and interesting folk art performances.
Chengdu Giant Panda Base, Chengdu
Jinli Ancient Street, Chengdu
Day 14 Take the High-Speed Train from Chengdu to Chongqing, then board the ship at Chaotianmen Wharf.
After breakfast, your guide and driver will pick you up at your hotel and then take you to the train station to board the high-speed train to Chongqing (approximately 1-1.5 hours journey). Welcome to Chongqing, known as the “Mountain City”! Upon arrival, your local guide will meet you at the exit gate holding a sign and lead you on a journey to explore the mountain city.
Our first stop is the Three Gorges Museum, which houses over 280,000 precious artifacts, vividly showcasing the magnificent epic of Yangtze River civilization and the geological mysteries of the formation of the Three Gorges. Here, you can witness the dramatic changes of Chongqing from a thousand-year-old ancient port to a modern opening-up city. After the visit, take a commemorative photo in front of the landmark People’s Hall outside the museum.
After lunch, we have a special arrangement to take Metro Line 2 from Huanghuayuan Station to Liziba Station to experience the magical charm of “立体交通” (three-dimensional transportation). When the train passes through a residential building as high as 11 floors, this unique “light rail through buildings” spectacle of the mountain city will surely amaze you. Afterwards, ascend Eling Park to overlook the dazzling mountain city, known as “Little Hong Kong.” You will see the layered skyscrapers intertwined with the Jialing River and the Yangtze River, outlining a magnificent urban skyline.
In the evening, explore Hongyadong, this 11-story stilted building complex built against the mountain is a living fossil of Ba-Yu architecture. As dusk falls and the warm orange lights are lit one by one, the layered traditional buildings resemble the real-life “Spirited Away” bathhouse. Ascend the stairs to the 11th-floor Urban Balcony to simultaneously admire the peculiar sight of vehicles traveling on the mountaintop and the dazzling neon night view on both sides of the Jialing River. After the tour, you will be transferred to Chaotianmen Wharf by private car, and at 21:00, you will board the ship to embark on an unforgettable Five-Star Yangtze River Cruise.
Chaotianmen Wharf, Chongqing
Hongyadong, Chongqing
Day 15 Yangtze River Cruise | Shore Excursion to Fengdu Ghost City
Today, your cruise ship will leisurely sail along the Yangtze River. You can sleep in until you wake up naturally in the morning and enjoy the charming river scenery – perhaps shrouded in mist, or bathed in gentle sunlight. After enjoying the buffet breakfast, your wonderful day begins. The cruise ship has prepared a variety of colorful activities for you. You can choose to disembark and visit traditional Chinese cultural attractions, or stay on the ship to relax and learn some Chinese culture.
This morning, you will disembark with a local English-speaking guide to visit Fengdu Ghost City. This ghost city consists of numerous temples, ancestral halls, and Taoist temples, where you can learn many legendary stories about the underworld, various ghosts, and Chinese demons. Alternatively, you can choose to visit Shibaozhai in Zhong County (one of the world’s eight strange buildings) for an additional fee. Ascend this 12-story red wooden pagoda to enjoy a panoramic view of the magnificent Yangtze River.
Note: The above itinerary is for reference only. Specific attractions and shore excursion items may vary slightly depending on the cruise company. We will assist you in choosing the most suitable cruise based on your preferences.
Fengdu Ghost City
Yangtze River Scenery
Day 16 Yangtze River Cruise | Three Gorges & Goddess Stream
Today, you will have a full day to admire the beautiful Three Gorges of the Yangtze River. First, you will sail through Qutang Gorge, known for its majestic and precipitous cliffs, and marvel at the incredible Kuimen. Next, pass through the deep and beautiful Wu Gorge, enjoying the picturesque scenery, and then traverse Xiling Gorge, famous for its treacherous shoals and rapid currents. Follow the guide’s live commentary and enjoy the breathtaking scenery from the ship.
This afternoon, you will disembark at Shennong Stream in Wushan County for a relaxing short excursion. Transfer to a small boat and drift downstream, getting a close-up view of the steep peaks and the hanging coffins suspended on the cliffs. If you are interested, you can join the local Tujia guides for singing and dancing performances. Tonight, enjoy the Captain’s Farewell Dinner with all your shipmates for a pleasant evening.
Qutang Gorge
Life on the Yangtze River Cruise
Day 17 Yangtze River Three Gorges Cruise to Yichang, disembark and fly to Shanghai
After breakfast, you will check out and then disembark at Maoping Port. Today’s highlight is a visit to the Three Gorges Dam, China’s largest hydropower project. You will have the opportunity to admire this magnificent dam and its ship lock system up close. The main body of the dam is majestic and spectacular, with a height of 181 meters, spanning 2,335 meters across the Yangtze River, and a width of 115 meters. (Optional experience: You can choose to take the Three Gorges Ship Lift, the world’s largest ship lift, to experience the grandeur of the dam from an ultra-close distance, which will bring a brand new and exciting experience to tourists.)
After the dam visit, you will take a tourist bus arranged by the cruise company and be transferred to the Yichang Three Gorges Tourist Center between approximately 12:30 and 13:30. In the afternoon, you will be transferred to the airport to take a flight to Shanghai (approximately 2 hours flight time). Upon arrival in Shanghai, your guide will meet you at the airport and take you directly to downtown Shanghai.
Three Gorges Dam
Three Gorges Dam
Day 18 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 gain a deep understanding of China’s profound history. The Shanghai Museum’s exterior resembles an ancient bronze cooking vessel, a “ding,” with a round top and a square base, symbolizing “the roundness of heaven and the squareness of earth.” The museum houses 120,000 artifacts spanning 5,000 years of history, comprehensively showcasing the treasures of Chinese art. You will immerse yourself in the bronze and ceramic exhibition halls, admiring exquisite bronzes and ingenious ceramic masterpieces. Don’t miss the two “treasures of the museum” – the bronze ritual vessel Da Ke Ding, over three thousand years old, and the Marquis Su bells of Jin (ancient percussion instruments).
Next, move to Yu Garden, a classical garden gem hidden in the bustling city. Stroll leisurely through it, admiring the typical Jiangnan garden architecture and appreciating the exquisite wood, stone, and brick carvings, which are a feast for the eyes. The Yu Garden Bazaar outside the garden is even more interesting, where you can taste authentic local snacks and purchase exquisite traditional handicrafts and artworks.
Then, you will stroll along Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street, lined with numerous famous shops, restaurants, cafes, and souvenir stores, with tall buildings standing side by side. Continue forward to reach the Bund, the top must-visit spot in Shanghai. Known as the “Exhibition of International Architecture,” the Bund gathers 52 buildings of various styles. Looking across the river, the skyline and skyscrapers of Lujiazui in Pudong are all within sight. The last stop of today’s itinerary is to ascend the Shanghai Tower, China’s tallest and the world’s second-tallest building, at a height of 632 meters. Take the elevator directly to the 118th floor, the observation deck at 546 meters, to enjoy a panoramic view of modern Shanghai and take in the magnificent urban scenery.
The Bund, Shanghai
Yu Garden, Shanghai
Day 19 Departure from Shanghai | Hotel Check-out and Airport Transfer
Your 19-day journey through China is coming to an end. You will then have free time in Shanghai to explore the city’s charm at your own pace. Afterwards, our guide will take you to the airport or train station to catch a flight or high-speed train to your next destination.
Thank you for choosing Fenglin China Travel for your journey through China. We are 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 & What's Not
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
- Visa Fees for Entry
- Personal Expenses
- Single Room Supplement
- Optional Recommended Activities
- Pick-up and Drop-off Services on the First and Last Day
- Tips for Drivers and Guides
Important Itinerary Notes for Booking a Private China Tour
Booking a private China tour is very simple. Choose 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.
The itinerary above is a sample that most travelers choose. The tour can be customized according to your preferences, interests, and budget. At the same time, if you wish 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 >>
Private tours mean you will travel to tourist attractions within a city by private vehicle. The private cars we select are spacious, comfortable, and air-conditioned. Moreover, our drivers 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.
Accommodation and Hotel Conditions for Your China Tour
Latest Customer Reviews of China Tours from Beijing
Learn about our customers’ reviews of the latest China tours in Beijing. Browse their recent comments and feedback on tour arrangements, guides, transportation, attractions, dining, hotels, and detailed itineraries to plan your own unforgettable China tour. View All Customer Reviews >>
- Travel Style: Private Custom Tour (Flexible travel dates and number of participants)
- Tour Route: Beijing-Xi'an-Lhasa-Guilin-Chengdu-Chongqing-Yangtze River-Yichang-Shanghai
- Route Features: History, Culture, Cultural Heritage Sites, Natural Wonders, Pandas, Museums
Price: Request
(Based on a private tour for two people. Prices vary depending on the program, travel dates, and number of participants)
Free Consultation! You don’t need to pay for booking.
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