Beijing, Xi’an, Chengdu, Guilin and Shanghai

Airport meet & greet, transfer to downtown hotel (~40–60 min). Rest and adjust to time zone.

Our tour begins at Tiananmen Square, the world's largest city square, a truly magnificent sight. We then proceed directly through Tiananmen Gate to the Forbidden City, the imperial palace of the Ming and Qing dynasties. After lunch, we head to the Houhai area, Beijing's most classic hutong (alleyway) and waterway district, brimming with the leisurely and poetic charm of old Beijing. Afterwards, we explore the nearby Nanluoguxiang, one of Beijing's best-preserved and most vibrant historical hutong districts.

Gallery: Forbidden City 1Forbidden City 2

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Today we'll visit the Mutianyu section of the Great Wall, one of the best-preserved and most popular sections around Beijing. It boasts lush vegetation, beautiful scenery, and relatively few tourists, making for a more comfortable experience. After lunch, we'll visit a jade carving workshop to learn about traditional Chinese jade carving techniques. The craftsman will demonstrate how to select materials, carve, and polish the jade. You can admire exquisite jade pieces (such as pendants, ornaments, and jewelry), learn about the symbolism and value of jade culture, and even have the opportunity to purchase a jade item as a souvenir. Afterwards, on the drive back to the city, we'll make a brief stop for photos in front of the Bird's Nest and Water Cube.

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In the morning, visit the Temple of Heaven, a sacred site where ancient emperors held grand ceremonies to worship Heaven. Afterwards, stroll through the surrounding hutongs to experience the charm of old Beijing, and enjoy lunch at a local restaurant. In the afternoon, take the high-speed train to Xi’an. Upon arrival, you will be met by your local guide at the airport/train station and transferred to your hotel for check-in and rest.

Gallery: Temple of Heaven 1Temple of Heaven 2

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In the morning, visit the Museum of Qin Terracotta Warriors and Horses to get a close look at this massive underground army. After lunch, visit the Xi’an Bell Tower to experience the historical charm of this landmark in the heart of the ancient capital. In the afternoon, enjoy free time to stroll through the Muslim Quarter, sample local snacks, buy unique souvenirs, and immerse yourself in the lively night market atmosphere.

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Morning Xi’an city wall; afternoon high-speed train to Chengdu; transfer to hotel.

Visit the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding to see the adorable pandas up close. Return to the city center at noon and enjoy an authentic Sichuan lunch at a popular local restaurant. Afterwards, head to Kuanzhai Alley to stroll through its quaint late Qing Dynasty and early Republican era streets, admire the architecture of western Sichuan, sample local snacks, shop, and take photos.

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The course begins with a brief Sichuan cooking experience, where participants will learn to prepare authentic Sichuan dishes and discover the joy and secrets of Sichuan cuisine. Afterwards, visitors will tour the Wuhou Temple, a tranquil museum commemorating Zhuge Liang, the Prime Minister of Shu Han during the Three Kingdoms period. Strolling through the gardens, they will learn about the stories of heroes such as Liu Bei, Zhuge Liang, and Guan Yu, experiencing the weight and wisdom of history.

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Board a luxury cruise ship on the Li River and enjoy the classic karst peak forest landscape along its banks. With towering peaks, winding emerald waters, and picturesque rural scenery, this section is considered the essence of "the finest landscape under heaven, " sailing from Guilin to Yangshuo. Upon arrival in Yangshuo, disembark and stroll or take a sightseeing bus to explore the famous West Street. This ancient street, brimming with a blend of Chinese and Western cultures, is filled with bars and cafes.

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Explore Reed Flute Cave, a karst cave hailed as a "palace of natural art." Afterwards, drive to Elephant Trunk Hill, Guilin's iconic landmark. This karst peak, resembling an elephant drinking water, is one of the most classic representations of Guilin's landscape. In the afternoon, transfer to the airport for your flight to Shanghai. Your local guide will meet you at the airport and transfer you to your hotel for check-in, concluding your wonderful Guilin trip and preparing you for your upcoming journey to Shanghai.

Gallery: Visit Reed Flute Cave 1Visit Reed Flute Cave 2

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In the morning, explore old Shanghai, experiencing the rich Shanghai-style charm and everyday life of its alleyways. Afterwards, enjoy a guided walking tour along the Bund, strolling among its century-old architectural complex. At noon, visit Yu Garden, a classical Jiangnan garden originally built in the Ming Dynasty. In the afternoon, visit the Jade Buddha Temple, a popular Buddhist temple famous for its two precious jade Buddha statues.

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Free time until transfer to Shanghai Pudong International Airport. Optional Maglev train experience to PVG, or private car.