In-Depth China Tour

Upon arrival at Beijing Capital Airport, your personal guide will greet you and escort you to your hotel in a comfortable, private vehicle. The drive takes about an hour, during which your guide will offer a fascinating introduction to Beijing, a city where ancient traditions meet modern energy. Once checked in, take some time to relax and recover from your journey—tomorrow, your adventure begins!

Begin your exploration of Beijing at Tiananmen Square, the political heart of modern China. From there, proceed to the 600-year-old Forbidden City, the imperial palace complex of the Ming and Qing Dynasties, where you can marvel at its architectural splendor and hear captivating tales of the royal families. After a traditional Chinese lunch, climb the artificial Jingshan Hill for panoramic views of the majestic palace complex and the central axis of this historic city.

Start your day like a local by visiting the Temple of Heaven, a serene park where Beijingers engage in morning exercises such as Tai Chi, dancing with swords, singing Peking opera, and practicing Chinese calligraphy using large brushes and water. After immersing yourself in these cultural activities, embark on a journey to the Mutianyu section of the Great Wall, approximately a 1.5-hour drive from the city center. This less-crowded area offers a cable car for a comfortable ascent and descent. As you walk along its ancient ramparts, you'll be awestruck by this remarkable structure and the surrounding picturesque landscape.

Spend the morning immersing yourself in Beijing's rich cultural heritage by exploring one of its few remaining hutongs—a traditional neighborhood characterized by narrow alleys lined with courtyard residences. Take a rickshaw ride through these historic lanes and visit a local family's home, where you'll have the opportunity to participate in a cooking demonstration and savor a homemade lunch. In the afternoon, board a high-speed train for Xi'an. The journey takes approximately 4 to 6 hours. Upon arrival, you'll be greeted and transferred to your hotel for check-in.

Today's highlight is the awe-inspiring Terracotta Warriors. Spend ample time admiring the vast collection of thousands of life-sized clay soldiers, horses, and chariots. Each statue is uniquely crafted, reflecting the distinct appearance of the Qin people from over two millennia ago. Take a moment to imagine the stories behind their expressions. In the afternoon, head back to the city and take a leisurely walk through the lively streets of the Muslim Quarter. Explore the century-old Great Mosque and experience the religious practices of the local Chinese Muslim community.

Start your day with a visit to a local family to dive into Xi'an's rich culture, especially its culinary traditions. Engage with local vendors at a bustling market, learn how to prepare iconic dishes like dumplings and hand-pulled noodles, and enjoy the warmth of homemade cooking. After lunch, explore the Tang Bo Art Museum, which showcases Shaanxi folk arts and ancient Chinese works, as well as contemporary pieces by regional artists. Don't miss the opportunity to try your hand at Chinese calligraphy. End the day with a visit to the Drum Tower, where you can learn about the city's history through its diverse collection of drums and enjoy an ancient music performance.

Fly to Kunming, the vibrant capital of Yunnan Province, and check in to your hotel for a brief rest. Your exploration begins at the serene Green Lake Park, a beloved local retreat. If you’re visiting during winter, you might witness flocks of red-billed gulls playfully soaring above the water, eagerly accepting breadcrumbs from visitors. The lively interactions between people and birds make for a delightful spectacle. Next, dive into Kunming’s sensory delights at the Jingxing Bird and Flower Market. This bustling marketplace overflows with vibrant flowers, exotic birds, and unique handicrafts, offering a glimpse into the city's rich local culture. The lively atmosphere, filled with the chirping of birds and the fragrance of fresh blooms, makes for an immersive experience.

Embark on a scenic drive to one of China’s most remarkable natural wonders—the Stone Forest. Formed over 270 million years ago, these towering limestone pillars once lay beneath the sea and now create a striking labyrinth of jagged rock formations. Stroll through this UNESCO-listed landscape, where nature's artistry has sculpted stone into shapes resembling trees, animals, and even legendary figures. After your exploration, board a comfortable high-speed train for a 2.5-hour journey to Dali, a city where ancient history meets stunning scenery. Nestled between the Cangshan Mountains and Erhai Lake, Dali is renowned for its charming Bai ethnic culture and ancient town, once the heart of the Nanzhao Kingdom.

Begin your morning at a local market, where you can sample Dali’s traditional breakfast delicacies and get a taste of daily life. Then, embark on a leisurely bike ride along the Erhai Ecological Corridor. This 1.5-hour journey offers breathtaking countryside views, passing through peaceful farmlands, charming Bai villages, and quaint cafés overlooking the shimmering lake. Arriving in Xizhou Ancient Town, step into the historic Yan Family Courtyard, a beautifully preserved Bai-style mansion. Experience the Three-Course Tea Ceremony, a unique Bai tradition symbolizing life’s journey, and visit the Xizhou Embroidery Workshop, where skilled artisans craft intricate designs, each stitch preserving centuries of heritage.

Set off on a scenic 2.5-hour drive to Lijiang, a UNESCO-listed ancient town known for its cobblestone streets, wooden bridges, and rich Naxi heritage. After a brief rest, explore the Lijiang Old Town, where flowing canals and traditional courtyards transport you to another era. Step into the Mu Mansion, once home to Lijiang’s most powerful chieftains. This grand estate showcases stunning Naxi architectural elegance, reflecting the influence of Han, Tibetan, and Bai cultures. Later, climb Lion Mountain, a sacred site offering panoramic views of the Old Town and beyond—an ideal spot for capturing the beauty of Lijiang at sunset.

Travel to Baisha Village, a tranquil retreat at the foot of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain. Visit the Joseph Rock Museum, dedicated to the Austrian-American explorer who spent 27 years documenting the region’s culture, language, and landscapes. After lunch, immerse yourself in local traditions with a Naxi family visit. Engage in a hands-on experience learning the basics of the Naxi pictographic script, one of the world’s few surviving ancient writing systems, still used in local ceremonies and religious texts.

Embark on a journey to one of China’s most awe-inspiring natural wonders—Tiger Leaping Gorge. Along the way, pause at the First Bend of the Yangtze River, where the mighty river makes a breathtaking U-turn, creating stunning panoramic views. For the adventurous, hike through the gorge, following rugged mountain trails that overlook the roaring rapids far below. Afterward, visit the historic town of Shigu, an important stop on the ancient Tea Horse Road, where traders once transported tea from Yunnan to Tibet.

Bid farewell to Lijiang as you board a flight to Guilin, famed for its karst landscapes that have inspired Chinese poets and painters for centuries. After a warm welcome, unwind at your hotel before venturing into the magical Reed Flute Cave. This underground wonderland is adorned with spectacular stalactites, stalagmites, and colorful mineral formations, illuminated to create a surreal, dreamlike ambiance.

Set sail on a breathtaking Li River cruise, where mist-covered karst mountains, emerald-green waters, and picturesque villages create an otherworldly landscape. This journey through nature’s masterpiece offers endless photography opportunities and a chance to soak in the region’s unparalleled beauty. Upon arrival in Yangshuo, stroll through the bustling West Street, where East meets West in a lively mix of local vendors, international cafés, and charming souvenir shops. Optional: In the evening, witness the mesmerizing Impression Sanjie Liu, a spectacular outdoor performance directed by renowned filmmaker Zhang Yimou, set against the stunning backdrop of the Li River.

Experience the tranquil countryside of Yangshuo with a 1.5- to 2-hour biking adventure (or by vehicle if preferred). Ride past verdant rice paddies, traditional villages, and dramatic karst peaks, soaking in the peaceful rural charm. In the afternoon, float down the Yulong River on a traditional bamboo raft. As you recline on a bamboo chair, let the gentle currents carry you through serene landscapes, surrounded by towering limestone cliffs and emerald waters—a truly unforgettable way to connect with nature.

After a high-speed train ride (4-5 hours) from Guilin, arrive in Chongqing, China’s largest inland metropolis. Your guide will escort you to the pier, where you’ll board your luxurious Yangtze River cruise. Settle in and enjoy a delightful dinner on deck, as the ship gently drifts into the scenic wonders of the Three Gorges region.

Start your day with a Tai Chi session on deck, embracing the tranquil morning atmosphere of the Yangtze River. Then, step ashore for an intriguing visit to Fengdu Ghost City, a mythical site steeped in Chinese folklore. Wander through elaborate temples, eerie statues, and mystical gates, learning about ancient beliefs surrounding the afterlife.

Venture into the ethereal Shennv Stream, where crystal-clear waters wind through towering cliffs and lush forests. Enjoy a leisurely boat ride, soaking in the breathtaking natural beauty and listening to local legends about the “Goddess of the River.” This serene journey offers a peaceful contrast to the mighty Yangtze’s grandeur.

Your final excursion takes you to the Three Gorges Dam, the world’s largest hydroelectric project. Gain insight into China’s ambitious engineering feat as you stand before this colossal structure. Disembark in Yichang, where you’ll transfer to the airport for a flight to Shanghai—China’s dazzling global metropolis, blending historic elegance with futuristic innovation. Upon arrival, your guide will escort you to your hotel, marking the beginning of your Shanghai adventure.

Step into Shanghai’s rich history at the Shanghai Museum, home to thousands of artifacts spanning China’s imperial past. From ancient bronze sculptures to delicate calligraphy, immerse yourself in the art and culture of dynasties past. Next, wander through the elegant Yu Garden, a classic Ming Dynasty garden filled with pavilions, koi-filled ponds, and intricate rock formations. Just outside, explore the lively Yuyuan Bazaar, where you can browse for souvenirs, silk, and traditional crafts. Stroll through the Former French Concession, a charming district lined with European-style villas, chic cafés, and tree-lined streets, offering a glimpse into Shanghai’s colonial-era elegance. End your day at the Bund, Shanghai’s most famous waterfront promenade. Here, gaze across the river at the futuristic skyline of Pudong, where iconic skyscrapers stand in contrast to the city’s historic Art Deco buildings.

Enjoy your final morning in Shanghai with some free time for last-minute shopping or a relaxing coffee in one of the city’s stylish cafés. When you’re ready, your guide and driver will pick you up for your transfer to the airport, where you’ll board your homebound flight, taking with you unforgettable memories of China’s history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes.