Shanghai-Guilin-Chengdu-Lhasa-Xi'an-Beijing 15 Days Tour
Great Wall, Terracotta Warriors, Potala Palace, Li River, Pandas, the Bund
Shanghai-Guilin-Chengdu-Lhasa-Xi'an-Beijing 15 Days Tour
On this 15-day panoramic journey across China, you will visit six of the country’s top travel destinations—Shanghai, Guilin, Chengdu, Lhasa, Xi’an, and Beijing. This cross-China adventure includes the “Golden Triangle of China” (Beijing, Shanghai, Xi’an), world-renowned Guilin (featured on the 20 RMB note), Chengdu—the hometown of giant pandas, and Lhasa—the “Roof of the World”. This is truly a panoramic tour of China, where you’ll witness the contrast between global financial metropolises and idyllic countryside, explore ancient capitals and modern megacities, meet China’s national treasure—the giant panda—up close, and experience the “City of Sunshine” on the Tibetan Plateau.
In Shanghai, China’s largest metropolis, you will stroll along the Bund to feel the charm of old Shanghai and ascend Shanghai Tower to witness the speed of China’s development. In Guilin, immerse yourself in unparalleled karst landscapes, beautiful mountains and rivers, fantastic caves, and unique rock formations. In the ancient city of Xi’an, the iconic City Wall, Muslim Quarter delicacies, and the awe-inspiring Terracotta Warriors will take you on a journey through history. In Chengdu, the cute giant pandas and fragrant, spicy Sichuan cuisine will surely captivate your senses. In Lhasa, experience the sacred religious atmosphere at the Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, and Barkhor Street, and taste authentic butter tea at the first nunnery in Tibet. In Beijing, ascend the finest section of the Great Wall and explore world cultural heritage sites such as the Forbidden City and the Summer Palace.
We warmly invite you to join this extraordinary journey to experience China’s vast territory, long history, rich cultural heritage, diverse culinary traditions, poetic landscapes, adorable wildlife, and the sacred mysteries of Tibet.
Through this visit, you can experience the “must-see and must-do”.
Highlight 1: Stroll along the Bund’s waterfront promenade, gaze at the spectacular skyline shaped by Pudong’s skyscrapers, and experience the century-old charm and modern vibrancy along both sides of the Huangpu River.
Highlight 2: Enjoy a Li River cruise from Guilin to Yangshuo, taking in endless poetic karst landscapes along the way. Immerse yourself in Yangshuo’s idyllic countryside and embrace nature to the fullest.
Highlight 3: Welcome to Chengdu! See adorable giant pandas and newborn panda cubs in their hometown; enjoy the city’s slow-paced lifestyle at local parks and teahouses, and savor authentic Sichuan cuisine.
Highlight 4: Step onto the Roof of the World and make a pilgrimage to the Potala Palace. This magnificent structure—composed of the Red Palace and White Palace—stands proudly atop Marpo Ri (Red Hill). In front of the Jokhang Temple, you can also witness local Tibetan Buddhists praying devoutly.
Highlight 5: Travel beyond downtown Lhasa to visit two of the three major Gelugpa monasteries—Drepung Monastery and Sera Monastery. In these grand monastic complexes, feel the profound religious atmosphere and witness the famous debating rituals performed by monks.
Highlight 6: Stroll through the Forbidden City and explore the Summer Palace. Amid red walls, golden tiles, pavilions, and towers, discover the secret histories and legends of the Ming and Qing imperial courts.
Highlight 7: Climb the less-crowded, well-preserved wild Great Wall and enjoy breathtaking panoramic mountain views.
Highlight 8: Step into a living history classroom and marvel at 8,000 life-sized Terracotta Warriors.
Trip Overview
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Shanghai (2 days)
Shanghai Museum, Yu Garden, the Bund, Nanjing Road, Shanghai Tower -
Guilin (2 days)
Li River Cruise (Guilin to Yangshuo), Yangshuo Countryside, West Street, Elephant Trunk Hill, Reed Flute Cave -
Chengdu (2 days)
Giant Panda Breeding Research Base, Wenshu Monastery, People’s Park, Jinli Ancient Street -
Lhasa (3 days)
Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, Barkhor Street, Drepung Monastery, Sera Monastery -
Xi'an (3 days)
Terracotta Warriors, Big Wild Goose Pagoda, City Wall, Muslim Quarter, Shaanxi History Museum -
Beijing (3 days)
Forbidden City, Mutianyu Great Wall, Tiananmen Square, Summer Palace, Bird’s Nest and Water Cube
Daily Itinerary
Day 1 Arrival in Shanghai | Airport Pickup and Hotel Check-in
Hello! Welcome to Beijing, the capital of China! Upon your arrival at the airport or train station, your guide and driver will greet you at the exit and escort you to your carefully selected hotel in the city center. The rest of the day is free for you to rest, recover from jet lag, or explore the nearby area.
【Arrival Guide】
Beijing is well-connected by air and high-speed rail. The city has two major airports—Beijing Daxing International Airport and Beijing Capital International Airport—serving numerous domestic and international routes. You can fly into Beijing from most major cities in China (such as Hong Kong, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Chengdu, Xi’an, Guilin, Hangzhou, Kunming, Wuhan, Xiamen, Guiyang, Chongqing, Lanzhou, and more). You can also take a high-speed train to Beijing: Xi’an (4–5 hours), Shanghai (4.5–6 hours), Zhengzhou (2.5–3 hours), Wuhan (4–5 hours), Harbin (5–5.5 hours), etc.
【Free Time】
After checking in, if you’d like to explore the area, feel free to ask your guide for insider tips. Whether you want to sample local snacks on Wangfujing Street, experience old Beijing hutong culture at Shichahai, or watch the flag-lowering ceremony at Tiananmen Square, your guide can tailor recommendations to your interests and schedule.
Day 2 Shanghai City Tour | Shanghai Museum, Yu Garden, Nanjing Road & the Bund
This morning, you will visit the Shanghai Museum and start an inspiring artistic journey through top-tier artifacts, gaining deep insights into China’s long history. The museum’s exterior resembles an ancient bronze ding vessel—round at the top and square at the base—symbolizing “heaven is round, earth is square”. It houses 120,000 cultural relics spanning 5,000 years of Chinese civilization. In the Bronze and Ceramics galleries, admire exquisite bronze wares and intricately crafted porcelain treasures. Don’t miss the two iconic masterpieces: the Da Ke Ding (a large bronze ceremonial vessel from over 3,000 years ago) and the Jin Hou Su Bells (an ancient percussion instrument).
Next, head to Yu Garden, a classical garden hidden within the bustling city. Wander leisurely through traditional Jiangnan-style architecture, appreciating exquisite wood, stone, and brick carvings. Outside the garden, the lively Yu Garden Bazaar offers tasty snacks and traditional handicrafts.
Then enjoy a walk on Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street, lined with shops, restaurants, cafés, and souvenir stores. Continue forward to reach the Bund, Shanghai’s most iconic attraction. Known as the “Exhibition of International Architecture”, it features 52 historical buildings of various styles. Across the river, you can admire the skyline and skyscrapers of Lujiazui. Your final stop today is ascending Shanghai Tower—the tallest building in China and the second tallest in the world at 632 meters. Take the elevator to the 118th-floor observation deck at 546 meters for panoramic views of modern Shanghai.
The Bund, Shanghai
Yu Garden, Shanghai
Day 3 Flight from Shanghai to Guilin | Jade Buddha Temple
This morning, your guide will meet you in the hotel lobby and accompany you to the serene Jade Buddha Temple amid Shanghai’s modern skyline. This is one of the city’s few active Buddhist temples, home to about 70 resident monks. Here, you will see the world’s largest jade Buddha statue and observe locals praying for blessings and prosperity. If time permits, you will also visit Tianzifang in the former French Concession—known for handicrafts, preserved Shikumen buildings, and local lifestyle culture. Afterward, head to the airport for your flight to Guilin (around 3 hours).
Welcome to Guilin—China’s most picturesque paradise! Upon arrival, your guide and driver will greet you and transfer you to your selected hotel in the city center. After check-in, we recommend a walk along Binjiang Road and a taste of local rice noodles.
Jade Buddha Temple, Shanghai
Jade Buddha Temple, Shanghai
Day 4 Guilin to Yangshuo | Li River Cruise, Yangshuo Countryside, West Street
“Guilin’s scenery is the best under heaven.” After breakfast, begin your journey to explore the stunning landscapes along the Li River. Recognized by National Geographic as one of the “Top 10 Water Wonders of the World”, the Li River Cruise from Guilin to Yangshuo (about 4.5 hours) showcases an 84-kilometer scroll of living Chinese ink-wash paintings: winding waters, lush karst peaks, water buffalo, farmers in fertile fields, and riverside villages. (Warm reminder: A simple local boxed lunch will be served on board.)
Upon arrival in Yangshuo, your driver will take you to the hotel for a short rest. Then enjoy an unforgettable countryside tour surrounded by postcard-like karst mountains and rice fields. Choose to cycle or rent an electric scooter, passing tranquil villages and immersing yourself in nature’s beauty.
In the evening, stroll down bustling West Street, Yangshuo’s most vibrant area. Restaurants, bars, and souvenir shops line the road. This lively spot is a cultural fusion of East and West—perfect for nightlife, coffee, food, or simply soaking up the lively atmosphere.
Li River Cruise, Yangshuo
Yangshuo Countryside Experience
Day 5 Flight 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 and shaped like an elephant drinking from the river. Next, explore Reed Flute Cave, a classic karst attraction filled with stalactites and stalagmites in various shapes resembling animals and plants. Under colorful lighting, the cave resembles a dazzling crystal palace.
After the tour, transfer to the airport for your flight to Chengdu (around 2 hours). Welcome to Chengdu! Upon arrival, your guide will escort you to your hotel. The rest of the day is free—enjoy hotpot and Sichuan opera face-changing for an unforgettable evening.
Elephant Trunk Hill, Guilin
Reed Flute Cave, Guilin
Day 6 Chengdu Panda Base, Jinli Ancient Street | Flight from Chengdu to Zhangjiajie
After breakfast, drive 17 km to the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding—your panda dream come true. Home to over 100 giant pandas, this is the world’s largest captive panda population. Watch pandas of all ages playing, eating, climbing, or napping. In autumn, you may even see newborn cubs at the Sunshine and Moonlight Nurseries. At the Red Panda enclosure, you’ll encounter the charming red pandas wandering around. Afterward, visit the Panda Museum to learn more about these fascinating animals. (Tip: Pandas are more active in cool mornings, so visit early!)
Next, explore Wenshu Monastery—Chengdu’s best-preserved Buddhist temple—followed by People’s Park to experience the city’s relaxed lifestyle. At the century-old Heming Teahouse, sip a cup of traditional tea, watch locals play mahjong, and enjoy leisurely conversations. Then stroll along Jinli Ancient Street, with over 1,800 years of history and vibrant displays of traditional Shu culture, snacks, crafts, and folk performances.
Chengdu Panda Base, Chengdu
Jinli Old Street, Chengdu
Day 7 Flight from Chengdu to Lhasa | Airport Transfer Service
After breakfast, enjoy some free time to explore Chengdu. Later, your guide will transfer you to the airport for your flight to Lhasa (around 3.5 hours).
Tashi Delek! Welcome to Lhasa, capital of Tibet! Upon arrival, your guide and driver will greet you with a sign and escort you safely to your hotel in the city center. Today, we recommend resting to acclimate to the 3,650-meter altitude.
Warm tips:
To prevent altitude sickness, move slowly, stay warm, and drink water in small amounts. Avoid showers for 1–2 days and keep a relaxed mindset with plenty of rest.
Please adjust according to your condition and follow medical advice for altitude acclimatization.
If you feel unwell or need help, inform your guide or hotel staff immediately. Local staff are experienced and ready to help.
Potala Palace, Tibet
Potala Palace, Tibet
Day 8 Lhasa Tour | Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, Barkhor Street
Today you will explore Lhasa’s cultural treasures, including two UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Then stroll along bustling Barkhor Street to experience Tibetan daily life.
In the morning, visit the Potala Palace—the traditional winter residence of the Dalai Lamas (1649–1959). Climb 365 steps to reach the Red Palace at an altitude of 3,700 meters. Inside, admire grand halls, stupas, chapels, exquisite murals, and invaluable treasures. You’ll also encounter Tibetan pilgrims who have traveled great distances to worship here. Your guide can share stories of King Songtsen Gampo, who first built the Potala Palace in the 7th century to marry Princess Wencheng of the Tang Dynasty.
Please Note: Your visit time will be arranged according to the Potala Palace reservation system. All visitors must enter with their group and finish the tour within one hour. Photography is prohibited inside.
After visiting the Potala Palace (featured on the back of the 50 RMB note), continue to Jokhang Temple—1,300 years old and the spiritual heart of Tibetan Buddhism. It was built to honor the wives of Songtsen Gampo: Princess Wencheng of Tang and Princess Bhrikuti of Nepal. “Jokhang” means “House of the Buddha”. Inside stands the precious life-sized statue of the 12-year-old Shakyamuni Buddha, the holiest object of Tibetan pilgrimage.
Next, explore the lively Barkhor Street beside the temple. Once a sacred pilgrimage path, it is now a bustling local market where you can enjoy butter tea, dress in Tibetan clothing for photos, or shop for Tibetan, Nepalese, and Indian handicrafts.
Potala Palace, Tibet
Jokhang Temple, Tibet
Day 9 Lhasa Cultural Tour | Drepung Monastery & Sera Monastery
Today you will explore two of the three major Gelugpa monasteries—Drepung and Sera.
In the morning, drive about 35 minutes (12 km) to Drepung Monastery. Once the largest monastery of the Gelugpa (Yellow Hat) school, it served as the Dalai Lamas’ residence before the 17th century relocation to the Potala Palace. Drepung is famous for the annual Shoton Festival, where huge thangkas are unveiled. You may also witness lively monastic debates with expressive gestures and dramatic movements. After the visit, enjoy a two-hour Tibetan cultural workshop featuring Tibetan culture introduction, incense making, and woodblock printing.
In the afternoon, drive about 40 minutes (14 km) to Sera Monastery. Its white stone paths create a Mediterranean-like ambiance. The highlight here is the debating courtyard (3–5 pm, except Sundays), where monks engage in dynamic debates—questioners standing, clapping, and stomping, while the respondents sit and answer. These movements symbolize awakening wisdom and dispelling laziness. Afterward, return to your hotel.
Drepung Monastery, Tibet
Sera Monastery, Tibet
Day 10 Flight from Lhasa to Xi'an | Airport Transfer Service
Your guide will accompany you to the airport for your flight to Xi’an (around 3 hours, economy tickets arranged by AOT).
Welcome to Xi’an—the ancient capital of 13 dynasties! Upon arrival, your guide and driver will greet you and escort you to your selected hotel. Enjoy free time to explore the area.
Potala Palace, Lhasa
Xi’an Night View
Day 11 Xi'an City Tour | Terracotta Warriors, City Wall, Muslim Quarter
After breakfast, your guide and driver will pick you up and drive about 40 km (1 hour) to the Terracotta Warriors Museum—one of the world’s greatest archaeological discoveries. Commissioned by Emperor Qin Shi Huang, this underground army was built to guard him in the afterlife. Around 8,000 life-sized warriors have been unearthed. Start at Pit 1, the largest, with over 6,000 warriors and horses arranged in military formation. Then visit Pit 2, home to over 1,000 warriors, including kneeling and standing archers, chariots, and armored infantry. (Optional: experience making your own miniature terracotta warrior.)
After lunch, return to the city to visit the ancient Xi’an City Wall, China’s largest and best-preserved city fortification. Stroll along the walls or choose to cycle (advance notice required).
In the evening, explore the lively Muslim Quarter filled with aromas, street food, and cultural fusion.
Terracotta Warriors, Xi’an
City Wall, Xi’an
Day 12 High-speed Train from Xi'an to Beijing | Big Wild Goose Pagoda, Shaanxi History Museum & Transfer Guide
This morning, your guide and driver will pick you up to visit the Shaanxi History Museum—“the Pearl of the Ancient Capital, the Treasure House of Chinese Civilization”. With 130,000 cultural relics, it showcases bronze artifacts, terracotta warriors, gold and silver from Tang tombs, murals, and more. Then visit the Big Wild Goose Pagoda inside the Daci’en Temple—an iconic landmark of Xi’an.
After lunch, enjoy a leisurely visit to the City Wall (also known as Xi’an Ancient City Wall). Walk along the wall to appreciate its gates, towers, and views of modern Xi’an.
Shaanxi History Museum, Xi’an
Big Wild Goose Pagoda, Xi’an
Day 13 Beijing City Tour | Tiananmen Square, Forbidden City, Hutongs
After breakfast, your guide will pick you up and take you to Tiananmen Square—the largest city square in the world and a symbol of China. It has witnessed many historic events. From the square, you’ll enter the magnificent Forbidden City, the largest and best-preserved imperial palace complex in the world. Home to 24 emperors and 8,728 rooms, it is a masterpiece of Chinese architecture and culture—“a city within a city”, much like the Vatican in Rome. Enter through the Meridian Gate and follow the central axis to explore the grand halls and hidden imperial stories. Then walk 15 minutes to Jingshan Park, climb Wanchun Pavilion, and enjoy panoramic views of Beijing and the golden rooftops of the Forbidden City.
In the afternoon, wander through the old Beijing hutongs. Ride a traditional rickshaw to explore the narrow alleys lined with charming shops and soak in the atmosphere of old Beijing life.
Optional Experience: Enjoy the world-famous Peking Duck at Quanjude.
Tiananmen, Beijing
Forbidden City, Beijing
Day 14 Beijing Great Wall Tour | Mutianyu Great Wall, Bird’s Nest, Water Cube
This morning, you will head to the Mutianyu Great Wall, located 73 km northwest of Beijing (about 1.5–2 hours by car). With a history of over 2,000 years and stretching across several northern provinces for more than 3,000 miles, the Great Wall is one of the most astonishing ancient engineering marvels in the world. Mutianyu connects the Jiankou section to the west and Gubeikou to the east, and is the best-preserved and most fully restored part of the Wall. With fewer crowds, its 23 Ming‑dynasty watchtowers and breathtaking scenery are especially famous. You will take the cable car directly to Watchtower No. 14 and begin an unforgettable hike along the Wall, focusing on the western section. Surrounded by lush pines and cypress trees, the majestic Wall winds across the vast landscape. Here you will experience the most striking natural views. Challenge yourself by climbing to Watchtower No. 20 and fulfill your Great Wall dream. Cherish this rare opportunity and take plenty of memorable photos!
After saying goodbye to this awe‑inspiring historical wonder, we will return to downtown Beijing, passing by two iconic Olympic landmarks — the Bird’s Nest (National Stadium) and the Water Cube (National Aquatics Center). These venues witnessed China’s glory from the 2008 Summer Olympics to the 2022 Winter Olympics. Pause to admire their exteriors and capture your Olympic memories. After the tour, your private vehicle will take you back to your hotel, where you will drift into a peaceful sleep with Great Wall memories.
Mutianyu Great Wall, Beijing
Bird’s Nest, Beijing
Day 15 Departure from Beijing | Temple of Heaven, Hutongs, Hotel Checkout, Airport Transfer
This morning, you will visit the Temple of Heaven. Located within the Temple of Heaven Park, it is larger than the Forbidden City but smaller than the Summer Palace. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this Taoist complex is famous for its symbolic layout, unique architectural structure, and gorgeous decorations. It was where 22 Chinese emperors conducted grand rituals twice a year to pray for good harvests. Here you can learn about these ceremonies and admire ingenious designs such as the Echo Wall and the Three‑Tone Stone. Today, the Temple of Heaven is also a popular morning exercise spot for local residents, and you are welcome to join them.
If time permits, you may also explore the old hutongs to enjoy a leisurely moment and experience authentic local life. Ride a rickshaw through narrow alleys lined with various distinctive shops.
Afterward, your 15‑day China journey is about to come to an end. Your guide will escort you to the airport or train station for your flight or high‑speed train to your next destination. Thank you for choosing Fenglin Travel to arrange your China trip. We are committed to serving you and look forward to seeing you again on your next journey to China or Asia.
Temple of Heaven, Beijing
Return home safely after your China trip.
Price: Inclusions and Exclusions
What’s Included?
- Experienced driver & air‑conditioned vehicle
- Licensed professional English‑speaking guide
- Hotel accommodation with breakfast
- Domestic flights (economy class) or high‑speed trains (second class) listed in the itinerary
- Entrance tickets, activities, and meals listed in the itinerary
- Accident insurance
- We provide full‑service support from planning to operation until the end of your trip.
What’s Not Included?
- International airfares
- Entry visa fees
- Personal expenses
- Single‑room supplement
- Recommended optional activities
- Arrival and departure transfer services
- Tips for driver and guide
Important travel notes for booking a private China tour
Booking a private China tour is very simple. Choose a tour you like and click “Free Inquiry”. When submitting the form, tell us your requirements and preferences. You do not need to pay immediately. After sending your request, our travel expert will reply within 0.5 to 24 hours. You only make a deposit after all details are confirmed. If you have any questions, feel free to contact our travel experts directly.
The itinerary above is a sample chosen by most travelers. It can be customized based on your preferences, interests, and budget. If you want to extend the trip, simply tell us your favorite destinations and activities. Our professional travel experts will redesign the itinerary for you and your group at the best possible price. Tell us your ideas now>>
A private tour means you’ll travel to attractions within each city by private vehicle. Our cars are spacious, comfortable, and air‑conditioned, driven by experienced drivers. For travel between cities, we use domestic flights (economy class) or high‑speed trains (second class, usually under 6 hours). Local guides and drivers will meet you at the airport or train station and escort you to your hotel.
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- Travel style: Private customized tour (flexible travel dates and number of travelers)
- Tour Route: Shanghai – Guilin – Chengdu – Lhasa – Xi’an – Beijing
- Route Highlights: History, culture, cultural sites, natural wonders, pandas, museums
Price: On request
(Based on a private tour for two people. Prices vary depending on itinerary, travel dates, and group size.)
Free consultation! No payment required to inquire.
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