10-Day Beijing-Xi'an-Zhangjiajie-Shanghai Tour
Great Wall, Terracotta Army, Zhangjiajie, The Bund
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10-Day Beijing-Xi'an-Zhangjiajie-Shanghai Tour
Planning a China 10-day tour? This private itinerary takes you through Beijing, Xi’an, Guilin, and Shanghai, offering a seamless blend of history, culture, and natural beauty with expert support from Fenglin Medical Tourism.
Usually, “incredible” and “unbelievable” are the most common words used to describe China. To experience the charm of China firsthand and witness the extraordinary aspects of this country, we highly recommend joining our 13-day China tour. This itinerary cleverly blends China’s classic cultural landscapes with the breathtaking natural wonders of Zhangjiajie and Guilin.
You will start your journey from Beijing, the capital of China, visiting magnificent imperial palaces and ascending the majestic Great Wall. Then, you’ll travel to the ancient capital of Xi’an to witness the millennia-old army formation of Qin Shi Huang’s Terracotta Warriors. Next, immerse yourself in Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, marvel at the fantastical “floating mountains” from Avatar, and challenge yourself by walking on the Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon Glass Bridge, over 300 meters high. In Guilin and Yangshuo, you will be enchanted by a picturesque landscape of karst scenery, enjoying a poetic and picturesque natural beauty. Finally, you’ll arrive in Shanghai, the “Magic City” on the banks of the Yangtze River, to witness the vibrant pulse of China’s modern development. The true charm of China will unfold with every destination you visit – this astonishing China awaits your exploration.
Through this tour, you can experience the "must-see and must-do"
Highlight 1: Stroll through the Forbidden City and visit the Summer Palace, listening to the secret histories of the Ming and Qing dynasties and the legends of imperial gardens amidst red walls, yellow tiles, pavilions, and towers.
Highlight 2: Climb the less crowded, scenic, and well-preserved wild Great Wall, enjoying panoramic views of the magnificent landscape.
Highlight 3: Step into a history classroom and be amazed by 8,000 life-sized Terracotta Warriors.
Highlight 4: Spend a full day exploring Wulingyuan Scenic Area, a fantastical land composed of over 3,000 narrow quartz sandstone pillars and peaks, and witness the real-life "Avatar Mountains" with your own eyes.
Highlight 5: Stroll along the Bund promenade, gazing 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
-
Beijing (4 Days)
Forbidden City, Mutianyu Great Wall, Tiananmen Square, Summer Palace, Bird's Nest & Water Cube -
Xi'an (2 Days)
Terracotta Warriors, Big Wild Goose Pagoda, Ancient City Wall, Muslim Quarter, Shaanxi History Museum -
Zhangjiajie (3 Days)
Wulingyuan Scenic Area, Yuanjiajie, Tianzi Mountain, Tianmen Mountain, Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon Glass Bridge, Baofeng Lake -
Shanghai (2 Days)
Shanghai Museum, Yu Garden, The Bund, Nanjing Road, Shanghai Tower
Daily Itinerary
Day 1 Arrival in Beijing | Private 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 greet you at the exit and 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 boasts excellent air and high-speed rail connectivity. The city has two airports – Beijing Daxing International Airport (PKX) and Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK), 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 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, 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 hutongs in Shichahai, or watching the flag-lowering ceremony at Tiananmen Square, your guide can tailor recommendations to suit your interests and schedule for a perfect independent exploration.
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. Passing through the square, you will marvel at the grandeur and magnificence of the Forbidden City (Palace Museum). As the world’s largest and best-preserved ancient imperial palace complex, it was once home to 24 emperors of China. This imperial garden, with its 8,728 rooms, is not only an architectural masterpiece embodying Chinese civilization but also a “city within a city,” akin to the Vatican in Rome. Entering through the Meridian Gate, proceed along the central axis to explore the exquisite palaces. Through your guide’s explanations, you will not only appreciate 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, and ascend to the Wanchun Pavilion for a panoramic view of modern Beijing and the continuous golden roofs of the Forbidden City.
In the afternoon, let’s wander through the old Beijing hutongs and experience authentic local life at a leisurely pace. Ride a traditional rickshaw through the winding alleys, where characteristic shops lining both sides tell stories of the ancient city’s daily life.
Evening Recommendation (Optional): You can choose to experience dinner at Quanjude to savor 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 center, about a 1.5-2 hour drive). The Great Wall, with over 2,000 years of history, spans multiple provinces in northern China, stretching over 3,000 miles, making it one of the world’s most awe-inspiring ancient engineering marvels. Mutianyu Great Wall connects to Jiankou Great Wall in the west and Gubeikou Great Wall in the east. It is the best-preserved and most fully restored section of the Great Wall, attracting 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 trek, focusing on the western section. Surrounded by lush pines and cypresses, the winding Great Wall stands majestically on the vast land, offering breathtaking 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 the urban area of Beijing, passing by the Olympic landmarks – the Bird’s Nest (National Stadium) and the Water Cube (National Aquatics Center). These Olympic venues 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, a private car will take you back to your hotel, where you can rest soundly tonight 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 “Museum of Imperial Gardens” – the Summer Palace. This was once an imperial summer resort. The landscapes, temples, gardens, pavilions, corridors, lakes, stone bridges, and city gates within the park are treasures of garden art. You can stroll leisurely, savoring the magnificent charm of imperial architecture, gazing at the mountain and lake scenery, and experiencing 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 be waiting at the exit to escort you to your hotel for check-in.
Summer Palace, Beijing
Summer Palace, Beijing
Day 5 Xi'an City Tour | Terracotta Warriors, Ancient City Wall, Muslim Quarter
After breakfast, your guide and driver will pick you up from your hotel and drive about 40 kilometers (approximately 1 hour) to visit one of the world’s greatest archaeological discoveries – the Terracotta Warriors Museum. This magnificent underground army was ordered 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 and horse figures. These silent terracotta figures, arranged in battle formation, have stood for millennia, exuding the majesty of guarding the emperor and showcasing the exquisite craftsmanship of Qin Dynasty artisans. Afterward, move to Pit 2, which houses over a thousand Terracotta Warriors. Here you will witness the formations of archers, including kneeling and standing archers, admire 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 your hand at making miniature Terracotta Warriors.)
After lunch, return to the city center to visit the most complete ancient city wall in China – 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 vantage point for overlooking the new cityscape of the ancient capital. You can stroll leisurely along the city wall, appreciating the beauty of its inner and outer walls, and gazing at the bustling modern cityscape of Xi’an. (Optional Experience: If you wish to cycle on the city wall, please inform your dedicated travel consultant in advance.)
In the evening, step into the lively Muslim Quarter, feeling the vibrant pulse of local life on the bluestone-paved streets. This ancient alley, a hub of Halal cuisine and diverse culture, is a paradise for foodies and a perfect place to touch the heartbeat of the ancient city.
Terracotta Warriors, Xi’an
Ancient City Wall, Xi’an
Day 6 Xi'an to Zhangjiajie Flight | Shaanxi History Museum
This morning, your guide and driver will pick you up from your hotel and take you to the Shaanxi History Museum. Hailed as the “Pearl of the Ancient Capital, Treasure of China,” this artistic hall houses over 130,000 historical artifacts, showcasing the condensed essence of China’s millennia-long civilization and brilliant ancient culture. During your visit, you will admire precious relics such as Western Zhou 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 structure located within Ci’en Temple. This ancient pagoda is an iconic landmark of Xi’an.
After the tour, you will be transferred to the airport for your flight to Zhangjiajie (approximately 2 hours). Upon arrival in Zhangjiajie, your guide will meet you at the airport exit and escort you to your hotel in the city for check-in.
Shaanxi History Museum, Xi’an
Big Wild Goose Pagoda, Xi’an
Day 7 Zhangjiajie Wulingyuan Scenic Area | Yuanjiajie, Tianzi Mountain, Ten-Mile Gallery
After breakfast, you will spend the entire day exploring the Wulingyuan Scenic Area, a natural wonder composed of over 3,000 narrow quartz sandstone pillars, resembling a secluded, fantastical island. First, take the scenic area’s shuttle bus to the Bailong Elevator, which takes just 1.5 minutes to ascend from the valley floor to the mountaintop, making it the world’s fastest and tallest outdoor elevator. Afterward, trek into the mysterious “Pandora world” – Yuanjiajie, the actual filming location for the “Hallelujah Mountains” in the movie Avatar. Don’t miss capturing the iconic landscape of Yuanjiajie, the Spirit Pillar (Qiankun Pillar), which rises vertically from the deep valley, reaching a height of 150 meters, like a giant supporting the sky. Head to Misty Island (Mihun Tai) to admire the fantastical sight of hundreds of stone peaks rising like bamboo shoots. Then, experience the lush scenery resembling a “natural bonsai” in the Back Garden.
Next, transfer via scenic shuttle bus to the second scenic area – Tianzi Mountain Nature Reserve, named after the Tujia leader Xiang Dakun in the Ming Dynasty. This is the fairyland depicted in the movie “Journey to the West.” Trek to Helong Park, where you can enjoy incredible views of peculiar rock formations from an excellent vantage point. Proceed to Dianjiang Terrace (Dianjiang Tai) to overlook the West Sea Stone Forest, where rugged rocks emerge from the mist-shrouded valleys. Today’s final stop is the Ten-Mile Gallery. You will ride a sightseeing tram through the picturesque canyon, as if admiring a flowing Chinese ink painting. After the tour, return to your hotel for rest.
Yuanjiajie, Zhangjiajie Scenic Area
Tianzi Mountain, Zhangjiajie Scenic Area
Day 8 Zhangjiajie to Shanghai Flight | Grand Canyon Glass Bridge, Baofeng Lake
After breakfast, you will be taken to the Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon to experience the thrilling Grand Canyon Glass Bridge. This glass bridge seems to wave hello, promising to make you exclaim “Oh my God!” and leave an even deeper impression of Zhangjiajie. The glass bridge is suspended between two mountain peaks, with a total length of 430 meters and a height of 300 meters, making it the world’s highest and longest glass bridge. Standing on the transparent bridge deck, you’ll feel as if you’re suspended in mid-air, with a panoramic view of the magnificent Grand Canyon unfolding before you.
After experiencing the “trembling” on the glass bridge, head to Baofeng Lake for a boat tour to calm your mind. Baofeng Lake is surrounded by lush trees and uniquely shaped stone peaks, offering a serene and idyllic setting for relaxation. Enjoy a leisurely boat ride on the lake, admiring the reflections of the strange peaks and listening to folk songs sung by local ethnic minority girls.
After the tour, you will be transferred to the airport for your flight to Shanghai (approximately 2 hours). Welcome to Shanghai, China’s most international, charming, and vibrant metropolis! Upon arrival in Shanghai, your guide will greet you at the airport exit with a sign and escort you to your hotel in the city center for check-in. The rest of the day is yours to explore at your leisure.
Grand Canyon Glass Bridge, Zhangjiajie
Baofeng Lake, Zhangjiajie
Day 9 Shanghai City Tour | Shanghai Museum, Yu Garden, Nanjing Road & The Bund
This morning, you will visit the Shanghai Museum, embarking on a soul-stirring artistic 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 roundness of heaven and the squareness of earth.” The museum houses 120,000 artifacts spanning 5,000 years of history, showcasing the treasures of Chinese art in their entirety. You will immerse yourself in the bronze and ceramic exhibition halls, admiring exquisite bronzes and ingenious ceramic masterpieces. Don’t miss the two museum treasures – the Great Ke Ding, a bronze ritual vessel over 3,000 years old, and the Marquis Su of Jin bells (ancient percussion instruments).
Next, move to Yu Garden, a classical garden gem hidden within the bustling city. Stroll leisurely through the garden, admiring the typical Jiangnan garden architecture and marveling at the exquisite wood carvings, stone carvings, and brick carvings. The Yu Garden Bazaar outside is also full of charm, where you can taste authentic local snacks and purchase exquisite traditional handicrafts and artworks.
Then, you will wander along Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street, lined with numerous famous shops, restaurants, cafes, and souvenir stores, with tall buildings standing side by side. Continue walking, and you will arrive at the Bund, the top attraction on Shanghai’s must-visit list. Known as the “Exhibition of International Architecture,” the Bund features 52 buildings of various architectural styles. Gazing across the river, you’ll see the skyline and skyscrapers of Lujiazui in Pudong. The final stop of today’s itinerary is the Shanghai Tower, China’s tallest and the world’s second-tallest building, reaching a height of 632 meters. Take the elevator directly to the 118th floor, 546 meters above ground, for a panoramic view of modern Shanghai, taking in the dazzling cityscape.
Shanghai skyline viewed from the Bund
Yu Garden, Shanghai
Day 10 Departure from Shanghai | Hotel Check-out & Airport Transfer
Your 10-day tour of China is coming 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 escort you to the airport or train station for your flight or high-speed train to your next destination.
Thank you for choosing Fenglin China Travel for your journey in China. We are committed to providing you with excellent service and look forward to seeing you again on your next trip to China or Asia!
Airport Transfer
Return home safely 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 support to the end of your journey
What’s Not Included?
- International airfare
- Visa fees for entry
- Personal expenses
- Single room supplement
- Optional tours
- Arrival and departure transfers
- Tips for drivers and guides
Important Itinerary Notes for Booking a Private China Tour
Booking a private China tour is simple. Select the tour package you are interested in and click “Free Consultation.” Please specify your requirements and preferences when submitting the form. You do not need to pay immediately during this process. After submitting your request, our professional travel experts will respond within 0.5 to 24 hours. You will only proceed with a deposit once all information is confirmed. Please feel free to contact your travel expert directly if you have any questions.
The itinerary above is a sample that most travelers choose. The tour can be customized according to your preferences, interests, and budget. Also, if you wish to extend your trip, simply let us know your desired destinations and activities. Our professional travel experts will completely redesign the itinerary for you and your group at the best possible price. Tell us your ideas now >>
Private tours mean you will travel to tourist attractions within a city using private vehicles. The private cars we select are spacious, comfortable, and air-conditioned. Moreover, our drivers are experienced. 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 your hotel.
Accommodation and Hotel Conditions for China Tours
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- Travel Style: Private Custom Tour (Flexible travel dates and number of people)
- Tour Route: Beijing-Xi'an-Zhangjiajie-Shanghai
- Route Features: History, Culture, Historical Sites, Natural Wonders, Museums
Price: Request
(Based on a private guided tour for two. Prices vary depending on the program, travel dates, and number of people)
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