13 Days Shanghai Guilin Yangtze Xian Beijing Small Group Tour

Nihao! Welcome to Shanghai, China’s most internationalized and vibrant city! Shanghai's long-term fusion of Eastern and Western cultures has contributed to Shanghai's unique culture. Upon your arrival at the airport/train station in Shanghai, the driver will meet and greet you at the exit, and then escort you to the well-selected hotel in downtown Shanghai. 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.

Shanghai Arrival Ideas:

Travelers can go to Shanghai easily by air or high speed train. There are two airports - Shanghai Pudong International Airport and Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport operating numerous international and domestic airlines. Travelers can go to Shanghai by air from most cities in China, like Beijing, Xian, Guangzhou, Chengdu, Guilin, Kunming, Lijiang, Lhasa, and more. In addition, travelers can take high speed train to Shanghai from Beijing (4.5-6 hours), Xian (6-7.5 hours), Huangshan (2.5-3 hours), Guangzhou (7-8.5 hours), Suzhou (0.5 hour), Hangzhou (about 45 mins), Wuhan (3.5-4.5 hours), etc.

Attractions

explore freely today

Transportation

arrive in Shanghai by yourself; vehicle

Dining

None

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: Shanghai Museum and Yu Garden are closed Mondays. Those days you'll instead visit the Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Center, Shanghai City God Temple, or the French Concession.)

Enjoy breathtaking views of Shanghai's skyline

With a collection of over 140,000 artifacts

Yuyuan Garden

Fashionable Nanjing Road in Shanghai

Attractions

5 iconic sites

Transportation

vehicle

Dining

Breakfast, Lunch

Accommodation

3-star hotel in downtown Shanghai

In this morning, 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 exit of the airport and escort you to your hotel in Guilin's downtown area.

In this afternoon, start your 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 pay a visit to the Reed Flute Cave, a classic scenic spot with karst landforms. The amazing stalactites and stalagmites in the cave resemble animals or plants. When the colorful neon lights turn on, you will feel as if you are walking through a crystal palace.

Elephant Trunk Hill Autumn View

Reed Flute Cave, a fascinating limestone cave located 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.

Board Li River Cruise in Guilin for Scenery

Draw out a 20-yuan note and compare it

Idyllic Scenery in 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 transferred to the train station for a high-speed train to Chongqing (about 4-4.5 hours). Welcome to Chongqing, the Mountain City of China! Upon your arrival in Chongqing, your driver will meet you at the exit of the train station and escort you to Chongqing Chaotianmen Port to board your Yangtze cruise. You will have free time after the cruise ship check-in and you can go around the area of Chaotianmen Port. Your memorable relaxing cruise journey starts at 21:00!

Remarks:

1. Please call the ship one day ahead or at least in the morning on the boarding day to have clear idea about which pier you are going to use;

2. All the times on the schedule are estimated ones which are subject to change due to weather and navigation conditions.

3. The boarding time and departure piers may change based on the ship line, water level, season, weather and other factors.

Notice for Transferring from Chongqing to Fengdu to Board the Cruise:

During the summer months, if the water level is too high or too low, it may be necessary to transfer from Chongqing to Fengdu by bus (arranged by the cruise company) in order to board the cruise. The drive takes about 2.5 hours. This situation occurs more frequently in March-April and July-August. If this happens, our travel consultant will provide you with detailed information about the transfer in advance.

Chaotianmen Port

Chongqing City View

Attractions

explore freely on your own

Transportation

vehicle, train, cruise

Dining

Breakfast

Accommodation

5-star Yangtze River cruise

On this day, your cruise will sail peacefully along the Yangtze River. Wake up leisurely and enjoy the fascinating river view with misty or gentle sunshine shining over the river. Have your buffet breakfast and start your beautiful day. There are some activities well designed by the cruise that you can do shore excursions to visit traditional Chinese cultural sites or stay onboard to relax and learn some Chinese culture.

In this afternoon, you will follow a local English-speaking tour guide and make a shore excursion to Fengdu Ghost City. This ghost city is one large collection of temples, memorials and monasteries and you can know many legendary stories about underworld and different kinds of devils and Chinese demons. Or, you can take optional excursion to Shibaozhai Pagoda with extra fee , one of the eight extraordinary architectures in the world located in Zhongxian County. Climb up the 12-story red wooden pagoda and you can have a panoramic view of the Yangtze River.

Note: The itinerary above is provided for your reference. Attractions and shore excursions may vary slightly depending on the cruise company. We will help you choose the most suitable cruise based on your preferences.

Go with 5-star Yangtze River Cruise

Fengdu Ghost City

Fengdu Ghost City

Shibao Pagoda

Attractions

1 site

Transportation

cruise

Dining

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

5-star Yangtze River Cruise

Today, you will have a full day to view the beautiful Three Gorges. First, you will sail through Qutang Gorge which is celebrated for its magnificent, peculiar and precipitous scenery in the world. Marvel at the incredible Kui Gate. Next, go through Wuxia Gorge which is serene and secluded and presents a panorama of lovely scenery and then pass through Xiling Gorge well known for its rugged shoals and turbulent waters. Follow the guide’s live interpretation and appreciate the breathtaking scenery onboard.

In this afternoon, make a leisure shore excursion to Shennv Stream (Goddess Stream) in Wushan County. Switch to a smaller boat to sail down the primitive stream for a close look at the steep mountains and hanging coffins high on the cliffs. If you are interested, you can join local Tujia ethnic guide for singing and dancing performance. In this evening, enjoy the Captain’s Farewell Party with all your mates onboard and have a pleasant dinner together.

Note: The itinerary above is provided for your reference. Attractions and shore excursions may vary slightly depending on the cruise company. We will help you choose the most suitable cruise based on your preferences.

Three Gorges

Three Gorges

Wu Gorge

Wild Monkeys on the Lesser Three Gorge

Attractions

1 site

Transportation

cruise

Dining

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

5-star Yangtze River cruise

After breakfast, it is time to go through the check-out procedure and you’ll disembark at Maoping Port. The highlighted attraction today is the largest hydropower project in China - Three Gorges Dam. Catch the chance to view the dam and the system of locks. The body of the dam is immense with a height of 181 meters and spanning 2335 meters across the Yangtze River and 115 meters in width. (Optional experience: you can choose to sail through the world’s largest ship lift - Three Gorges Dam Ship Lift to very closely marvel at the huge dam which is a totally fresh and exciting experience for travelers.)

After the dam visiting, you’ll take the tourist bus arranged by the cruise company transferring you to Yichang Three Gorges Center Cruise Terminal around 12:30~13:30. In this afternoon, you will be escorted to the airport for a flight to Xian (about 1.5 hours). Upon arrival, your driver will meet you at the airport and escort you directly to downtown Xian.

Yichang

Three Gorges Dam

Attractions

1 site

Transportation

cruise, vehicle

Dining

Breakfast

Accommodation

3-star hotel in downtown Xian

After breakfast, your guide and driver will pick you up at your hotel. Drive about 40km (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. Around 8,000 vivid life-size Terracotta Warriors have been found so far. First, 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 also at the fabulous 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 formation, including the kneeling and standing archers, the chariot war array, and numerous troopers holding weapons.

After lunch, head to visit the Ancient City Wall, also known as the Fortification of Xian, representing one of the oldest, largest, and best-preserved Chinese city walls. Spend time leisurely walking the wall and enjoying its inner and outer walls, watchtowers, and moat, taking in panoramic views of modern Xian, there, you will also visit the awe-inspiring Bell Tower (or Drum Tower; one will be arranged), a landmark from the Ming Dynasty dating back 600 years, will be beautifully illuminated, creating a captivating backdrop for stunning photos showcasing the harmonious blend of ancient history and modernity in Xian. In the evening, you may also have the chance to witness the enchanting musical fountain and lively square dancing near Bell & Drum Tower Square (Zhongulou Square), allowing you to immerse yourself in Xian's vibrant nightlife like a local.

Visit Terracotta Warriors with AOT

Impressive Terracotta Warriors in Xian

Our Dear Guests Enjoyed Cycling Experience on the Wall

Bell Tower, Xian

Attractions

3 sites

Transportation

vehicle

Dining

Breakfast, Lunch

Accommodation

3-star hotel in downtown Xian

In this morning, 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.

After the tour, you will be transferred to the train station for your high speed train to next destination - Beijing. Upon arrival in Beijing, your driver will meet you at the train station and escort you to your hotel. The rest of the day is free on your own so you can explore by yourself around your hotel.

A Group of Our Guests Visited Giant Wild Goose Pagoda

Xian Muslim Quarter

Attractions

2 sites

Transportation

High speed train, vehicle

Dining

Breakfast

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.)

Tiananmen Square, Beijing

Known as the Palace Museum

Beijing Jingshan Park

Summer Palace, Beijing

Attractions

3 iconic sites

Transportation

coach

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.

Simatai Great Wall Nightview, Beijing

Jinshanling Great Wall, Beijing

Water Cube, Beijing

Panoramic View of Beijing Water Cube

Attractions

3 sites

Transportation

coach

Dining

Breakfast, Lunch

Accommodation

3-star hotel in downtown Beijing

It is time to end your 13-day China group tour. You will have some free time in Beijing 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 want to explore other Asia destinations rather than return home right away, we would be glad to assist you with an extension trip. Feel free to tell us your ideas!

Thank you for choosing Asia Odyssey Travel for your China tour, and we are always here working for you and hope to see you again for your next trip to China/Asia. Safe journey!

Visit Beijing Tiananmen Square with AOT

Visit Forbidden City in Small Group in October with AOT

Attractions

explore freely today

Transportation

coach

Dining

Breakfast

Accommodation

none