15 Days China Grand Hexagon Group Tour (Golden Triangle, Panda, Cyperpunk, Avatar)

Nihao! Welcome to Beijing! Upon arrival at the airport or station, our local staff will greet you and provide a private escort to your downtown hotel. The remainder of the day is yours to relax, recover from jet lag, or begin exploring the local neighborhood at your own pace. Enjoy your first evening in China's historic capital!

Arrival Ideas:

Beijing is easily accessible via Daxing (PKX) and Capital (PEK) airports, serving major global and domestic hubs like Hong Kong, Shanghai, and Xi'an. Alternatively, China’s extensive high-speed rail network offers fast connections to the capital. Travel times from Xi'an or Shanghai range between 4 to 6 hours. Other domestic transfer options:  Zhengzhou (2.5-3 hours), Wuhan (4-5 hours), Harbin (5-5.5 hours), etc.

Walk to Visit Beijing Forbidden City

Mutianyu Great Wall, Beijing

Attractions

explore freely today

Transportation

arrive in Beijing by yourself; vehicle

Dining

None

Accommodation

3-star hotel in downtown Beijing

Spend a full day discovering the ancient heart of Beijing, visiting iconic landmarks that showcase China’s imperial grandeur and magnificent royal gardens.

After breakfast, your guide will escort you to Tiananmen Square, the world’s largest public square and a potent symbol of China. Having witnessed decades of transformative history, this landmark offers the perfect vantage point for photographing Tiananmen Gate, the iconic backdrop famously featured every single day on CCTV News.

Then, cross the square to enter the Forbidden City, the world’s largest palace complex and home to 24 emperors. This UNESCO World Heritage site served as China’s political heart for 500 years. Follow the central axis to admire ancient treasures and imperial architecture. Finally, a 15-minute walk to Jingshan Park reveals breathtaking panoramic views of the palace's russet roofs and the modern Beijing skyline.

In the afternoon, drive to the Summer Palace, the "Museum of Royal Gardens" and former imperial retreat. Its magnificent temples, pavilions, and bridges are masterpieces of landscape design. Take a leisurely stroll to appreciate the imperial architecture and serene hilltop views.

Note:

1. Wearcomfortable shoes for Jingshan Park, as it requires some walking. You can choose whether to climb to the viewpoint based on your fitness level.
2. Forbidden City is closed every Monday. If your tour falls on a Monday, you will visit theTemple of Heaven or Prince Gong's Mansion as an alternative.

Visit Beijing Tiananmen Square with AOT

Visit Jingshan Park for Forbidden City Panoramic View

Beijing Summer Palace Spring View

Summer Palace, Imperial Garden of Beijing

Attractions

4 iconic sites

Transportation

vehicle

Dining

Breakfast, Lunch

Accommodation

3-star hotel in downtown Beijing

Today, drive northwest to the Mutianyu Great Wall, a 2,000-year-old masterpiece. Renowned for its 23 Ming-era watchtowers and fewer crowds, this fully restored section offers stunning scenery. Take a cable car to the 14th tower, then hike the scenic western route. Challenge yourself by climbing to the 20th watchtower for panoramic views of the majestic, winding wall—the perfect moment to fulfill your Great Wall dream.

After this once-in-a-lifetime experience, return to downtown Beijing for a photo stop at the iconic Bird's Nest and Water Cube. These architectural marvels, originally designed for the 2008 Summer Olympics, also served as premier venues for the 2022 Winter Games.

Return to your hotel and have a good rest tonight.

Mutianyu Great Wall Summer View

Take Cable Car Up to Mutianyu Great Wall

Beijing Bird's Nest Panoramic View

Beijing Water Cube

Attractions

3 sites

Transportation

vehicle

Dining

Breakfast, Lunch

Accommodation

3-star hotel in downtown Beijing

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

In the afternoon, visit the Giant Wild Goose Pagoda, a magnificent Tang Dynasty symbol within the tranquil Da Ci’en Temple. This iconic seven-story structure was built in AD 652 to house Buddhist sutras brought from India by the monk Xuan Zang. His legendary travels famously inspired the Chinese literary classic, Journey to the West. Explore this architectural masterpiece, a premier example of Tang-style design.

Later, explore the vibrant Muslim Quarter, a 500-meter stretch that serves as the heart of Xi’an’s Hui community. Immerse yourself in the bustling atmosphere and savor local street food. Don't miss world-famous specialties like Roujiamo (Chinese hamburger), savory Yangrou Paomo, hand-pulled Biangbiang noodles, and smoky charcoal-grilled kebabs.

A Group of Our Guests Visited Giant Wild Goose Pagoda

Giant Wild Goose Pagoda in Xian

Xian Muslim Quarter, Bustling Snack Street

Xian Muslim Quarter

Attractions

2 sites

Transportation

vehicle, high speed train

Dining

Breakfast

Accommodation

3-star hotel in downtown Xian

After breakfast, drive 40km to the Terracotta Army Museum, a world-class archaeological wonder. Built by Emperor Qin Shihuang, this subterranean army features nearly 8,000 life-size figures. Explore the massive Pit 1, containing 6,000 soldiers and horses, then visit Pit 2 to examine complex battle formations, including archers and chariots. Marvel at the incredible artistry and ancient military precision that guarded the Emperor’s afterlife.

After lunch, visit the Ancient City Wall, one of China’s oldest and best-preserved fortifications. Take a leisurely stroll along this massive structure to admire its watchtowers and moat. From the top, you’ll enjoy striking panoramic views that highlight the unique contrast between ancient architecture and the bustling modern skyline of Xi’an.

Later, visit the awe-inspiring Bell Tower (or Drum Tower), a 600-year-old Ming Dynasty landmark. When beautifully illuminated at night, it creates a captivating backdrop showcasing Xi’an’s blend of ancient history and modernity. Afterward, immerse yourself in the local nightlife at the vibrant Bell & Drum Tower Square, a perfect spot for stunning photos and experiencing the city's energetic evening atmosphere like a true local.

Enjoy Family Visit to Terracotta Warriors with AOT

Enjoy a Trip to Terra-Cotta Warriors with AOT

Xian Ancient City Wall

Xian City Wall

Attractions

3 sites

Transportation

vehicle

Dining

Breakfast, Lunch

Accommodation

3-star hotel in downtown Xian

Today, fulfill your panda dream at the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, the world’s largest captive panda facility. Observe pandas of all ages playing and eating, and look for newborn cubs in the nurseries. Encounter adorable red pandas in their playground before uncovering secrets at the Panda Museum.

Note: We recommend an early arrival, as these bears are most active during the cooler morning hours.

In the afternoon, take an hour’s drive to the Sanxingdui Site Museum, a world-class archaeological treasure. Discover the 3,000-year-old Ancient Shu Kingdom through its most famous relics, including the massive Bronze Sacred Tree and the iconic Vertical-eyed Mask. Marvel at the Gold Scepter and early pottery in the Comprehensive Pavilion, all showcasing a "shocker of the world" civilization that rewritten the history of the Sichuan region.

Conclude your afternoon with a visit to Jinli Old Street, a 1,800-year-old landmark reflecting the spirit of the Ancient Shu Kingdom. This stone-paved thoroughfare is famous for its vibrant atmosphere and traditional style. It’s an ideal spot to taste Sichuan snacks, shop for handmade souvenirs, and enjoy the colorful cultural displays of old Chengdu.

Plan B: Chengdu Downtown City Tour (No Sanxingdui Museum)

Please note that Sanxingdui Museum tickets may be limited during peak times. Should they be unavailable, your day will shift to a comprehensive Chengdu city tour.

This alternative route covers: Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding → Chengdu Museum → Kuanzhai Alley → Renmin Park

Pandas eating bamboo

A panda is taking a nap on the tree

Sanxingdui Museum, the most important discoveries of the 20th century

Bronze Standing Figure in Sanxingdui Museum

Attractions

3-4 iconic sites

Transportation

vehicle

Dining

Breakfast, Lunch

Accommodation

3-star hotel in downtown Chengdu

Today, take a morning high-speed train from Chengdu to Chongqing, a short ride of about 1 to 2 hours. Welcome to Chongqing, famously known as China's Mountain City!

Then, meet your guide and head to Liziba Metro Station, home to the famous "train through a building" phenomenon. This incredible engineering marvel has made Line 2 a must-see landmark. We’ll stop at the dedicated viewing platform so you can watch the monorail glide through the apartments.

Next, head to Kuixing Building, the heart of Chongqing’s famous "8D cyberpunk" vibe and a sacred spot for Qing Dynasty scholars. You’ll step onto what feels like a normal ground-level plaza, only to realize you’re actually 22 stories up!

Later, visit Jiefangbei, a 27.5-meter monument built in 1940 to symbolize Chongqing’s WWII resilience. The tower’s base serves as a historical time capsule, preserving artifacts from its founding. It is the iconic location to capture "Hello Chongqing" photo.

Enjoy a hot pot dinner with the group! There’s no better place than the birthplace of hot pot to put your taste buds to the test against spicy broths.

Next, visit Hongya Cave, a stunning complex of traditional stilted buildings along the Jialing River. Famous for its wooden diaojiaolou architecture and vibrant atmosphere, it’s the perfect spot for a riverside stroll featuring breathtaking views of Chongqing’s modern skyline.

At night, the cliffside transforms into a dazzling display of lights. For the ultimate photo, walk onto the red Qiansimen Bridge. You’ll capture the famous bird’s-eye view of the city’s glowing structures.

After that, return to your hotel in Chongqing downtown area.

Train going through a 11-storey block of flats

Chongqing Kuixing Building

Chongqing Hongya Cave

Chongqing Hot Pot

Attractions

5 sites

Transportation

vehicle, high speed train

Dining

Breakfast, Dinner

Accommodation

3-star hotel in downtown Chongqing

Today, take a 2.5-hour drive to Wulong Karst National Geological Park, a UNESCO site famous for its massive Three Natural Bridges. This cinematic landscape, featured in Transformers, offers incredible scenery.

Start your visit at the glass observation deck for a dizzying 280-meter-high view, then take the sightseeing elevator deep into the gorge.

As you hike the trail, you’ll encounter:

1. Tianlong Bridge (Heavenly Dragon): You’ll first meet the "Heavenly Dragon," a giant limestone gateway that is easily the most majestic sight in the park.
2. Tianfu Official Post: Tucked away in the gorge is this beautiful historic courtyard. It’s a step back in time to when ancient officials used it as a scenic rest stop.
3. Qinglong Bridge (Azure Dragon): Get your camera ready for the "Azure Dragon." Its slender, elegant shape surrounded by lush forest makes it a favorite for travel photos.
4. Heilong Bridge (Black Dragon): Finally, enjoy the misty, mysterious vibes of the "Black Dragon," where a calm creek winds its way under the towering rock ceiling.

Note:

• Footwear: Wear supportive shoes suitable for steep stairs and natural terrain.
• Hydration: Bring plenty of water and snacks to stay fueled during the trek.
• Photography: Use a wide-angle lens for landscape shots and waterproof protection for your camera.
• Clothing: Dress in breathable layers and bring a raincoat to handle the cool, damp canyon climate.

Stay overnight in Wulong Xiannvshan Town.

Wulong Tianlong Bridge

Wulong, Tianfuguanyi

Attractions

1 site

Transportation

vehicle

Dining

Breakfast

Accommodation

3-star hotel in downtown Chongqing

This morning, take a 2-3 hour high-speed train to Zhangjiajie, the world-famous "Avatar Mountain" destination. Our local staff will meet you upon arrival for a comfort transfer to your hotel. After check-in, enjoy free time to relax or start exploring this incredible city on your own.

Tour Zhangjiajie with Asia Odyssey Travel

Enjoy Zhangjiajie Tour with AOT

Attractions

explore on your own

Transportation

High speed train, vehicle

Dining

Breakfast

Accommodation

3-star hotel in downtown Zhangjiajie

Start your day at Zhangjiajie National Forest Park. You’ll have plenty of time to experience the magic of Wulingyuan, a spectacular landscape filled with over 3,000 towering sandstone pillars that feel like another world.

First, ride the famous Bailong Elevator, the world's tallest outdoor lift, straight up to Yuanjiajie. You’ll step into the surreal world of Avatar, where you can photograph the massive Hallelujah Mountains. Walk the scenic precipice trail to discover natural marvels like the First Bridge Under Heaven.

Next, visit Tianzi Mountain (天子山), the "King of Peaks," named after a historic Tujia ethnic leader. This 1,262-meter UNESCO site is famous for its sea of clouds and as a filming location for Journey to the West. Don't miss the Dianjiangtai Platform for views of the misty West Sea Peaks or the Imperial Writing Brush Peaks, six slender stone pillars that legendary lore claims were the emperor’s own pens.

Later, walk to He Long Park (贺龙公园) to see the famous bronze statue of the Marshal. Don't miss the Tianzige Pavilion; at 30 meters tall, it provides a breathtaking 360-degree view of the endless mountain peaks below.

Note: To avoid peak-season crowds, your guide may reverse the tour order, ensuring you stay ahead of the largest tourist groups.

Floating Mountains in Zhangjiajie National Forest Park

Yubifeng Peak of Tianzi Mountain, Zhangjiajie

Attractions

3 sites

Transportation

vehicle

Dining

Breakfast, Lunch

Accommodation

3-star hotel in downtown Zhangjiajie

After breakfast, you will be transferred from Wulingyuan to Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon (1.5 h, 56 km).

The Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon is famous for its fresh air, waterfalls, and the record-breaking Glass Bridge. Stretching between two cliffs, this glass-bottomed walkway offers breathtaking views 300 meters above the forest floor. You can test your courage with the world's highest bungee jump (Optional) or simply enjoy the feeling of floating above the mist. It’s a must-visit spot for incredible photos and a true shot of adrenaline.

After "trembling" on the glass bridge, head to Baofeng Lake to unwind. Take a shuttle to the pier for a wooden boat cruise on crystal-clear waters. Surrounded by green trees and striking cliffs, this alpine lake is the perfect spot to relax. You’ll love the stunning reflections of the mountains and the beautiful folk songs sung by local villagers as you glide through the quiet basin.

Return to your hotel for a good rest.

Thriling Zhangjiaije Grand Canyon Glass Bridge

Beautiful Baofeng Lake, Zhangjiajie

Attractions

2 sites

Transportation

vehicle

Dining

Breakfast, Lunch

Accommodation

3-star hotel in downtown Zhangjiajie

Following breakfast, your guide will escort you to the magnificent Tianmen Mountain. Experience a breathtaking ascent on the world’s longest cable car, brave the famous glass skywalk, and visit the iconic Heaven’s Door. You’ll also overlook the spectacular Avenue toward Heaven, a marvel of engineering featuring 99 turns.

First, ride the world’s longest cable car (7,455m, 30mins) from the city to the peak of Tianmen Mountain. Admire the stunning Heaven’s Door and the twisting Avenue toward Heaven from above. Next, visit the serene Tianmen Temple, a beautiful Qing Dynasty Buddhist site tucked away in the mountain’s lush forest.

Now, test your courage on the Glass Skywalk, suspended 1,430 meters above a deep valley for a surreal "walking in the sky" experience. Continue along the 1.6-kilometer Cliff-Hanging Walkway, an engineering marvel built into the mountain’s summit. These thrilling paths offer unparalleled aerial views.

Next, take the escalator down to Tianmen Cave, the famous "Heaven’s Door." It is an incredible natural arch that stands over 131 meters high between two mountain peaks—the highest in the world! Tianmen Mountain is a premier location for wingsuit flying. During your tour, you may see this thrilling extreme sport.

After the memorable time, take the cable car down the mountain.

After the tour, you will be escorted to the airport for your flight to Shanghai. Upon your arrival in Shanghai, our local staff will meet you at the exit of the airport and escort you to your hotel.

Tianmen Mountain in Summer, Zhangjiajie

Glass Skywalk in Tianmen Mountain, Zhangjiajie

999 Bends Road in Tianmen Mountain, Zhangjiajie

Enjoy Panoramic View of Tianmen Cave, Zhangjiajie

Attractions

1 site

Transportation

vehicle, flight

Dining

Breakfast, Lunch

Accommodation

3-star hotel in downtown Shanghai

Today, you’ll see exactly why this vibrant city earned its famous nickname, the "Paris of the East."

First, head to Pudong to see the famous Lujiazui skyline. You’ll climb the Shanghai Tower, the second-tallest building in the world, in a record-breaking elevator hitting 64 km/h. From the 118th-floor observatory, enjoy a stunning bird’s-eye view of the city. Look down at the Jin Mao Tower and witness Shanghai’s dramatic 360-degree horizon.

Later, visit Shanghai Museum, a "bronze ding" shaped landmark symbolizing the ancient "round sky, square earth" philosophy. Home to 120,000 cultural relics, it spans 5,000 years of Chinese art. Explore the Bronze and Ceramics Hall to witness masterworks like the 3,000-year-old Da Ke Ding and the melodic Bianzhong of Marquis Su.

Next, discover Yu Garden, a peaceful historic escape right in the city center. You’ll love the exquisite Chinese sculptures and traditional garden design. Afterward, head to the lively Yuyuan Bazaar nearby. It’s a great place to try some tasty street food and pick up unique handmade souvenirs.

Afterward, stroll along Nanjing Road, a vibrant pedestrian hub featuring global brands and historic architecture. Conclude your afternoon at the Bund, Shanghai’s premier landmark. Admire the "Exhibition of International Architecture," a collection of 52 historic buildings.

Note:

1. On Mondays, the Shanghai Museum and Yuyuan Garden remain closed. During these times, your itinerary will feature the Shanghai Museum East and the City God Temple.
2. In the busy season, it can be hard to get tickets for the Shanghai Museum. If this happens, your guide will take you to the Shanghai Museum East Branch.

Visit the Bund in Small Group with AOT

Charming Yu Garden in Shanghai

Shanghai Nanjing Road

The Bund

Attractions

5 iconic sites

Transportation

vehicle

Dining

Breakfast, Lunch

Accommodation

3-star hotel in downtown Shanghai

As your 15 Days China Group Tour ends, enjoy free time in Shanghai until your scheduled transfer. We will escort you to the airport or railway station for your departing flight.

If you want to visit other places in Asia after your tour, we can help you plan more travel. Please tell us your ideas, and we will arrange your trip extension instead of sending you home right away.

Thank you for choosing Asia Odyssey Travel for your China adventure! We’ve loved being part of your journey and are always here whenever you’re ready for your next Asian exploration.

Attractions

explore freely today

Transportation

vehicle

Dining

Breakfast

Accommodation

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