10 Days Beijing Xian Guilin Shanghai Small Group Tour

Nihao! Welcome to Beijing, the capital city of China! Upon your arrival at the airport/train station in Beijing, the driver will meet and greet you at the exit, and then escort you to the well-selected hotel in downtown Beijing. The rest of the day is free on your own so you can have a good rest for the jet lag or explore by yourself around your hotel.

Arrival Ideas:

Beijing is well connected by air and high speed rail. There are two airports - Beijing Daxing International Airport and Beijing Capital International Airport operating many international and domestic airlines. Travelers can go to Beijing by air from most cities of China, like Hong Kong, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Chengdu, Xian, Guilin, Hangzhou, Kunming, Wuhan, Xiamen, Guiyang, Chongqing, and Lanzhou. In addition, travelers can take the high speed train to Beijing from Xian (4-5 hours), Shanghai (4.5-6 hours), Zhengzhou (2.5-3 hours), Wuhan (4-5 hours), Harbin (5-5.5 hours), etc.

Grand Architecture of Forbidden City

Tiananmen Square, Symbol of China

Attractions

explore freely today

Transportation

arrive in Beijing by yourself; vehicle

Dining

None

Accommodation

3-star hotel in downtown Beijing

Today you will spend the whole day exploring the ancient citadel of Beijing through China's famous landmarks, imperial grandeur, and royal gardens.

After breakfast, your guide will pick you up at your hotel and head to Tiananmen Square, the world's largest public square and symbol of China. It has witnessed many major events in China's history over the past decades, and from here you can take great photos of Tiananmen Gate, seen daily on CCTV News.

Walking across the square, you will visit the mighty and splendid Forbidden City, the world's largest palace complex and former home of 24 Chinese emperors. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site, the Forbidden City has about 500 years of history, serving as the political and ritual center of China during the Ming (1368-1644) and Qing (1644-1911) dynasties. With over 8,700 rooms, it is not only China's largest and best-preserved collection of ancient buildings, but also a city within a city, like the Vatican in Rome. Enter through the Meridian Gate and visit along the central axis to ensure you see all the highlights. Admire the brilliant architecture and numerous ancient treasures while listening to your guide share stories of the emperors who once lived here. Later, take a 15-minute walk up to Jingshan Park, where you can enjoy magnificent panoramic views over modern Beijing and the Forbidden City's russet roofs. (Note: It requires some walking, so please wear comfortable footwear. You can decide whether or not to climb to the top based on your physical condition.)

In the afternoon, drive to the Summer Palace, the "Museum of Royal Gardens," once a summer retreat for royal families. The grounds, temples, gardens, pavilions, lakes, bridges, gate-towers, and corridors are marvels of landscape design. Take a leisurely stroll to appreciate the imperial architecture, hilltop views, and beautiful lakes, which offer a pastoral escape into the landscapes of traditional Chinese painting.

(Travel Note: Beijing's Forbidden City is closed on Mondays. On those days, you will instead visit the Temple of Heaven or Prince Gong's Mansion.)

Beijing Tian'anmen Square

Visit Forbidden City in Small Group with AOT

Forbidden City is home to a series of grand halls

Beijing Summer Palace Spring View

Attractions

4 iconic sites

Transportation

vehicle

Dining

Breakfast, Lunch

Accommodation

3-star hotel in downtown Beijing

In this morning, you will head northwest of Beijing (about 1.5-2 hours’ drive, 73km) to the Great Wall at Mutianyu. The Great Wall boasts a history over 2,000 years and stretches more than 3,000 miles across several provinces of northern China, making it one of the most impressive ancient masterpieces on the planet. Mutianyu Great Wall is connected with the Jiankou Great Wall in the west and the Gubeikou Great Wall in the east. Mutianyu is the longest and best fully-restored Great Wall with fewer tourists and is also famed for its 23 Ming-era watchtowers and stunning views. Take the cable car up to the 14th watchtower and then enjoy the memorable hiking time on the wall while visiting its western route. With the green pines and cypresses covering the surrounding area, and the winding wall standing majestically on the vast land, you will capture the most stunning natural scenery in this section. Challenge yourselves while climbing up to the 20th watchtower where you could fulfill your Great Wall dream. Cherish the chance and take photos as many as you like!

After the once-in-lifetime experience, head back to downtown Beijing and have the chance to take photos with the exterior of the Bird's Nest (Beijing National Stadium) and Water Cube (Beijing National Aquatics Center). They were both designed for the 2008 Beijing Olympics and used for the 2022 Winter Olympic Games.

After that, transfer back to your hotel and have a good rest tonight.

Mutianyu Great Wall Summer View

Our Dear Guests Visited Mutianyu Great Wall in Autumn

Beijing Bird's Nest

Panoramic View of Water Cube

Attractions

3 sites

Transportation

vehicle

Dining

Breakfast, Lunch

Accommodation

3-star hotel in downtown Beijing

After breakfast, your group will be escorted to the train station for high-speed train to Xi’an (about 4.5-5.5 hours). Welcome to Xi’an, the capital of 13 ancient Chinese dynasties! Upon arrival at the train station, your driver will greet you at the exit and escort you to your hotel in Xi’an.

In the afternoon, you will visit Giant Wild Goose Pagoda, one of Xi’an’s most recognizable landmarks and a symbol of the magnificence of the Tang Dynasty. This seven-story pagoda, standing in the tranquil Da Ci’en Temple, is one of China’s best examples of a Tang-style pagoda (squarish rather than round). It was completed in AD 652 to house Buddhist sutras brought back from India by the monk Xuan Zang. His travels inspired one of the best-known works of Chinese literature, Journey to the West.

Later, you will have the opportunity to explore the vibrant and bustling Muslim Quarter, one of the most famous neighborhoods in Xi’an. Stretching for about 500 meters, this area is home to the city’s Hui Muslim community. Enjoy the lively atmosphere and especially the mouthwatering street food. You can try famous Xi’an specialties such as Roujiamo, Yangrou Paomo, Biangbiang noodles, and kebabs.

Take a Leisure Stroll on Muslim Quarter

Local snacks in the Muslim Quarter

Giant Wild Goose Pagoda in Xian

Our Dear Guests Visited Giant Wild Goose Pagoda

Attractions

2 sites

Transportation

vehicle, High speed train

Dining

Breakfast

Accommodation

3-star hotel in downtown Xian

After breakfast, your guide and driver will pick you up at your hotel. You will drive about 40 km (about 1 hour) to uncover one of the greatest archaeological discoveries in the world - the Terracotta Army Museum, built by the first emperor of China, Qin Shihuang, to protect him in the afterlife. So far, around 8,000 vivid life-size Terracotta Warriors have been found. First, you will visit the largest and most imposing pit, believed to contain over 6,000 terracotta figures of soldiers and horses. You will be amazed by this subterranean life-size army of thousands, standing silently to guard the emperor. Marvel at the incredible artistic skills of ancient Chinese artisans. Next, move to another pit where you can see around 1,300 warriors and horses. Examine the ancient army formations, including the kneeling and standing archers, the chariot war array, and numerous troopers holding weapons.

After lunch, you will visit the Ancient City Wall, also known as the Fortification of Xi’an, one of the oldest, largest, and best-preserved Chinese city walls. Spend time leisurely walking along the wall, enjoying its inner and outer walls, watchtowers, and moat, while taking in panoramic views of modern Xi’an. There, you will also visit the awe-inspiring Bell Tower (or Drum Tower), a landmark from the Ming Dynasty dating back 600 years. The towers are beautifully illuminated at night, creating a captivating backdrop for stunning photos that showcase the harmonious blend of ancient history and modernity in Xi’an.

In the evening, you may have the chance to witness the enchanting musical fountain and lively square dancing near Bell & Drum Tower Square (Zhonggulou Square), allowing you to immerse yourself in Xi’an’s vibrant nightlife like a local.

Majestic Terracotta Warriors

Visit Terracotta Warriors and Have Fun with AOT

Take a Stroll on Xian Ancient City Wall

Xian Bell Tower

Attractions

3 sites

Transportation

vehicle

Dining

Breakfast, Lunch

Accommodation

3-star hotel in downtown Xian

On this day, you will be transferred to the airport for your flight to Guilin (about 2.5 hours). Upon your arrival in Guilin, your driver will meet you at the airport exit and escort you to your hotel in Guilin’s downtown area.

In the afternoon, enjoy a visit to the symbol of Guilin - Elephant Trunk Hill. Located at the intersection of the Li River and Peach Blossom River, Elephant Trunk Hill looks like a huge elephant drinking water from the river. Then, you will visit Reed Flute Cave, a classic scenic spot featuring karst landforms. The amazing stalactites and stalagmites in the cave resemble animals or plants. When the colorful neon lights are turned on, you will feel as if you are walking through a crystal palace.

Stay overnight in Guilin.

Elephant Trunk Hill, a famous landmark in Guilin

Reed Flute Cave, Magical Underground in Guilin

Attractions

2 sites

Transportation

vehicle, flight

Dining

Breakfast

Accommodation

3-star hotel in downtown Guilin

“East or west, Guilin landscape is the best”. After breakfast, you will go to explore the most stunning natural scenery along the Li River, which is renowned as one of the “the world’s top 10 watery wonders” by National Geographic. Drive about 1 hour from your hotel to the pier and start a 4.5-hour relaxing sightseeing Li River cruise trip to Yangshuo. Along the 84-kilometer scenic cruise, you will feast your eyes with endless Chinese paintings of winding rivers, numerous green limestone karst peaks, grazing water buffalo, farmers working in the fertile fields, and idyllic villages nestled at the bases of the hills. (Lunch Upgrade: Asia Odyssey Travel has thoughtfully prepared a customized Western-style lunch exclusively for you. Your guide will bring freshly made meals prepared early that morning for you to enjoy on the boat.) 

After arriving in Yangshuo, the driver will pick you up from the dock and drive to your hotel in Yangshuo town for a short rest. Then, it's time to get up close to Yangshuo rural paradise. Choose the way that suits your style: (1) by driving, plus walking; (2) by bike; or (3) by scooter. (Additional prices may apply). 

Let all the picturesque scenes please your eyes and souls to the maximum for total relaxation. At various points, you might also spot locals engaging in their daily chores, farmers tending to their fields, or even children playing along the riverbanks. Quaint stone houses dot the riverbanks, their grey slate roofs offering a delightful contrast against the verdant surroundings. A solitary water buffalo languidly grazes in the fields, a sight that adds an endearing touch of rural life to the panoramic display.

Later, you will stroll leisurely along the West Street, which is the most prosperous area in Yangshuo. Restaurants, bars and souvenir shops along the street are always full of guests. It is a fusion of western culture and Chinese culture and it is the best place to spend your nightlife here. Whether you want to enjoy a cup of coffee, taste some local food or just throw yourself into the vivid atmosphere... all you can get.

Li River Cruise

4-Hour Li River Cruise from Guilin to Yangshuo

West Street, Yangshuo

West Street, Yangshuo

Attractions

3 sites

Transportation

cruise

Dining

Breakfast, Lunch

Accommodation

3-star hotel in Yangshuo Town

On this day, you will be escorted to airport for your flight to Shanghai. Welcome to Shanghai, China’s most internationalized and vibrant city! Upon your arrival in Shanghai, your driver will meet you at the exit of the airport and escort you to your hotel in downtown Shanghai. You will have free time after your hotel check-in.

The Towering Skyscrapers in Lujiazui

Fashionable Nanjing Road in Shanghai

Attractions

explore freely on your own

Transportation

vehicle, flight

Dining

Breakfast

Accommodation

3-star hotel in downtown Shanghai

Today you will spend the whole day experiencing the perfect blend of West and East in this "Paris of the East." Visit brilliant museums, traditional Chinese gardens, modern skyscrapers, and exotic architecture.

First, head to the Pudong Area. One eye-catching feature is the trio of towering skyscrapers in the Lujiazui financial district. Shanghai Tower is the tallest building in China and second tallest in the world at 632 meters (2,073 feet). Here, you will ascend the highest building in Shanghai - the Shanghai Tower - featuring a dramatic 120-degree twist from base to peak. Ride the world’s fastest elevators, traveling at 64 km/h, up to the "Top of Shanghai Observatory" on the 118th floor, 546 meters (about 1,791 feet) above ground. Enjoy unparalleled 360-degree panoramic views over the city and look down on the Jin Mao Tower and Shanghai World Financial Center.

Later, visit the Shanghai Museum for an awe-inspiring tour of the finest art collection and profound Chinese history. Built shaped like an ancient bronze ding vessel, the museum has a round top and square base, symbolizing “round sky, square earth.” It contains 120,000 cultural relics showcasing incredible Chinese art spanning 5,000 years. Immerse yourself in the Bronze and Ceramics Exhibition Hall, appreciating the elaborate bronzes and exquisite artifacts. Don't miss top treasures like the Da Ke Ding bronze vessel from over 3,000 years ago and the Bianzhong of Marquis Su of Jin, ancient musical instruments.

Next, head to Yu Garden, the most celebrated classical Chinese garden hidden in bustling downtown Shanghai. Enjoy a leisurely stroll to see the Chinese architecture and exquisite sculptures and carvings. Outside, Yuyuan Bazaar is a fun place to taste local snacks and shop for traditional crafts and art.

In the afternoon, stroll down Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street, lined with famous brands, restaurants, cafes, souvenir shops, and towering buildings. Continue to the Bund, the top must-see spot in Shanghai. Known as the "Exhibition of International Architecture," the Bund features 52 buildings in various styles. Overlook the amazing Pudong skyline and skyscrapers from here.

(Travel Note: 1)The Shanghai Museum and Yuyuan Garden are closed on Mondays. On these days, your visit to the Shanghai Museum will be arranged at the Shanghai Museum East, and Yuyuan Garden will be replaced with a visit to the City God Temple. 2) During peak season, if it is difficult to reserve tickets for the Shanghai Museum (People's Square), your visit will be arranged at the Shanghai Museum East Branch instead.)

Lujiazui Skyscrapers in the Pudong New Area of Shanghai

Charming Yu Garden in Shanghai

The Bund

Shanghai Nanjing Road

Attractions

5 iconic sites

Transportation

vehicle

Dining

Breakfast, Lunch

Accommodation

3-star hotel in downtown Shanghai

It is time to end your 10-day China group tour. You will have some free time in Shanghai and explore more on your own till be escorted to the airport/train station for your flight or high speed train to your next destination.

Trip Extension Ideas:

If you’d like to explore other destinations in Asia instead of returning home right away, we would be happy to help you arrange an extension trip. Feel free to share your ideas with us!

Thank you for choosing Asia Odyssey Travel for your China tour. We are always here to assist you and hope to see you again on your next trip to China or Asia. Safe journey!

The Towering Skyscrapers in Lujiazui

Visit Yuyuan Garden in Summer with AOT

Attractions

explore freely today

Transportation

vehicle

Dining

Breakfast

Accommodation

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