10 Days Shanghai Guilin Xian Beijing Iconic China Tour

Welcome to Shanghai! Step into China’s most vibrant metropolis, where the historic fusion of East and West creates a unique cultural pulse. Upon your arrival at the airport or train station, our local team will meet you at the exit. We will escort you directly to your curated downtown hotel for smooth check-in.

Free Time to Explore:

The remainder of the day is yours to unwind from jet lag or begin a gentle exploration of the surrounding neighborhood. Feel free to ask your guide for personalized local tips based on your interests.

Arrival Ideas:

Shanghai is a premier global hub accessible by air or high-speed rail. Two major airports—Pudong (PVG) and Hongqiao (SHA)—offer frequent connections to cities like Beijing, Xi’an, and Chengdu. If arriving by high speed rail, enjoy swift train from Beijing (4.5–6h), Xi’an (6–7.5h), or nearby Hangzhou and Suzhou (30–45m).

Today, experience the unique charm of the "Paris of the East." We explore a perfect fusion of Eastern tradition and Western modernity through Shanghai’s most iconic landmarks.

We begin at the Shanghai Museum, a world-class institution shaped like an ancient bronze vessel. Its design symbolizes the Chinese concept of "round sky, square earth." Inside, you will discover 5,000 years of history through 120,000 artifacts. Don't miss the legendary Da Ke Ding bronze vessel and the ancient Bianzhong musical instruments in the Bronze and Ceramic halls.

Later, let’s visit Shanghai Tower, China’s tallest skyscraper. We ascend to the 118th floor—546 meters high—for breathtaking, panoramic view of the modern metropolis.

Next, we visit Yu Garden, a serene classical oasis hidden in the city center. Stroll through its ornate pavilions, rockeries, and traditional architecture. Afterward, explore the nearby Yuyuan Bazaar to sample local snacks and browse authentic Chinese handicrafts.

In the afternoon, we walk down Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street, a vibrant hub of shops, cafes, and historic buildings.

Our route continues to The Bund, Shanghai’s most famous waterfront. Known as an "Exhibition of International Buildings," this area features 52 historic structures that offer a striking contrast to the futuristic skyline across the river.

This morning, your guide will escort you to the Jade Buddha Temple. This active monastery offers a serene escape amidst the city's modern skyline. You will admire the world’s largest jade Buddha statue and witness local devotees praying for prosperity.

If time permits, we will visit Tianzifang in the Former French Concession. This vibrant district is famous for its preserved Shikumen architecture, charming craft shops, and a glimpse into authentic local life.

Afterward, your guide will transfer you to the airport for your flight to Guilin.

Upon arrival in Guilin, our local team will meet you at the airport and escort you to your hotel. After checking in, enjoy some leisure time. We recommend a relaxing stroll along Binjiang Road to enjoy the river views, followed by a bowl of authentic Guilin rice noodles.

After breakfast, enjoy 4.5-hour cruise along the Li River, a National Geographic "Top 10 Watery Wonder." A 1-hour drive brings you to the pier for this iconic 84km cruise to Yangshuo. Feast your eyes on a living Chinese scroll: winding waters, emerald karst peaks, grazing water buffalo, and tranquil villages nestled at the hills' feet. A simple local lunch is served on board as you drift through this limestone wonderland.

Upon arrival, your driver will escort you to your hotel for a brief refresh. Then, immerse yourself in the serene Yangshuo countryside. Whether by bicycle or electric scooter, navigate through postcard-perfect rice paddies and ancient hamlets. Let the rhythmic rural life and dramatic peaks offer total relaxation for your soul.

Conclude your day with a leisurely stroll through West Street, Yangshuo’s historic and bustling heart. This vibrant thoroughfare is a unique fusion of Eastern heritage and Western flair. Explore an array of boutique shops, bars, and cafes. Whether you crave a quiet coffee, authentic local flavors, or a lively nightlife atmosphere, West Street delivers the perfect finale to your day.

After breakfast, we return to Guilin to explore its most iconic sites. Our first stop is Elephant Trunk Hill, the city's beloved symbol. Situated where the Li and Peach Blossom rivers meet, this natural rock formation perfectly resembles a giant elephant drinking from the water.

Next, we visit the Reed Flute Cave, a masterpiece of karst geology. Inside, you will wander through a subterranean world of stalactites and stalagmites. When illuminated by colorful lights, the cave transforms into a shimmering, magical crystal palace.

After the tour, we transfer you to the airport for your flight to Xian. Upon arrival in this historic capital of 13 ancient dynasties, our local team will greet you and escort you to your hotel. After check-in, the rest of the day is yours to relax or explore the city at your own pace.

After breakfast, we drive to the Terracotta Army Museum, one of the world’s greatest archaeological discoveries. Built by China’s first emperor to guard his afterlife, this subterranean legion features 8,000 life-size figures. You will explore the massive main pit, home to over 6,000 soldiers and horses, and marvel at the incredible artistry of ancient Chinese craftsmen. We will also visit the secondary pits to see the intricate formations of archers, charioteers, and infantry up close.

After lunch, we return to the city center to explore the Ancient City Wall. As one of China’s oldest and best-preserved fortifications, it offers a fascinating look at ancient defense systems. Enjoy a leisurely walk along the ramparts, where you can take in the watchtowers, the moat, and sweeping panoramic views of modern Xian.

In the late afternoon, we dive into the vibrant Muslim Quarter. This bustling district is the heart of local life and a paradise for food lovers. Wander through the lively streets to soak up the unique blend of Muslim culture and authentic local snacks.

We begin the morning at the Giant Wild Goose Pagoda, an iconic landmark of the Tang Dynasty. Built in 652 AD to house sacred Buddhist sutras brought from India, its elegant structure remains a masterpiece of ancient architecture.

To fully immerse yourself in Xian’s history, we offer a traditional Hanfu experience. Don exquisite silk robes and enjoy a professional photo session against the backdrop of this ancient temple. It is a unique way to step back in time and connect with the city’s rich cultural legacy.

After the tour, we transfer you to the station for your high-speed train to Beijing. The journey takes approximately 4.5 to 5.5 hours, offering a comfortable view of the changing landscape.

Upon arrival in the capital, our team will meet you at the platform and escort you to your hotel. The evening is yours to relax or explore the neighborhood at your own pace.

Today, we dive into the heart of imperial Beijing to experience the city's most iconic landmarks. We begin at Tian’anmen Square, the world’s largest public square and a powerful symbol of modern China. It is the perfect spot for iconic photos before we head toward the palace gates.

Next, we enter the Forbidden City. As the former home to 24 emperors across the Ming and Qing dynasties, this massive complex remains the world’s best-preserved imperial palace. We follow the central axis to explore its most significant halls, filled with centuries of history.

Afterward, we climb Jingshan Park for a breathtaking panoramic view of the Forbidden City’s golden roofs against the Beijing skyline.

In the afternoon, we escape to the Summer Palace, the Qing Dynasty’s lavish imperial resort. This "Museum of Royal Gardens" is a masterpiece of landscape design, featuring ornate pavilions, winding corridors, and the serene Kunming Lake. It offers a peaceful, pastoral contrast to the morning's imperial intensity.

This morning, we drive northwest to the Mutianyu section of the Great Wall. This stretch is renowned for its stunning mountain scenery and well-preserved Ming-era watchtowers. It offers a more peaceful experience, allowing you to fully appreciate the scale of this ancient masterpiece.

We take a cable car up to the 14th watchtower to begin our hike. You are free to explore the wall at your own pace, soaking in the panoramic views of the winding stone path nestled among lush green hills. For those seeking a challenge, we encourage you to hike up to the 20th watchtower. It is the perfect vantage point to capture breathtaking photos of the wall as it snakes across the landscape. Take the cable car down.

On our return to the city, we make a photo stop at the exterior of the iconic Bird’s Nest (National Stadium) and the Water Cube (National Aquatics Center). These architectural marvels, built for the 2008 Summer Olympics, remain striking symbols of modern Beijing. We then return to your hotel for a well-deserved rest.

This morning, we visit the Temple of Heaven, a masterpiece of Taoist architecture. Larger than the Forbidden City, this UNESCO World Heritage site served as the sacred ground where emperors prayed for bountiful harvests. You will explore its unique, symbolic design, including the famous Echo Wall and the Triple Sound Stones. Today, the surrounding park is a vibrant hub for locals; feel free to join them for their morning exercises or traditional pastimes.

If time permits, we will dive into Beijing’s historic "Hutongs." A rickshaw tour through these narrow, winding alleys offers a charming glimpse into the city's traditional residential life and local culture.

As your 10 Days China Tour concludes, your guide will escort you to the airport or train station for your departure.

Thank you for choosing Asia Odyssey Travel. We hope to welcome you back for your next adventure in China.