17 Days In-depth China Tour with Best China & Three Gorges, Panda, Holy Tibet

Nihao! Welcome to Shanghai, China’s most vibrant and international metropolis. This city is a fascinating blend of Eastern tradition and Western influence.

Upon your arrival at the airport or train station, your private guide and driver will meet you at the exit. They will escort you directly to your hotel in downtown Shanghai for a smooth check-in. The rest of the day is yours to relax and recover from your journey, or to start exploring the neighborhood at your own pace.

Arrival Tips:

Shanghai is easily accessible via two major hubs: Shanghai Pudong International Airport and Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport. Both offer extensive international and domestic connections. If you prefer rail travel, high-speed trains connect Shanghai to major cities like Beijing, Xian, Guangzhou, and Hangzhou with ease.

Today, experience the unique blend of East and West that defines the "Paris of the East." We will explore historic treasures, traditional gardens, and the futuristic skyline of this global metropolis.

Start your morning at the Shanghai Museum. Its iconic design—a round top on a square base—symbolizes the ancient Chinese concept of "round sky, square earth." Housing over 120,000 relics, this museum is a treasure trove of 5,000 years of history. Don't miss the Bronze and Ceramic halls, where you can marvel at ancient masterpieces like the 3,000-year-old Da Ke Ding vessel and the exquisite Bianzhong bells.

Next, step into the Yu Garden. This classical garden is a tranquil oasis hidden within the city's bustling center. Wander through its elegant pavilions, intricate rockeries, and detailed carvings. Afterward, explore the vibrant Yuyuan Bazaar right outside, where you can sample local snacks and browse for traditional handicrafts.

In the afternoon, take a stroll down Nanjing Road, Shanghai’s premier pedestrian shopping street. Continue your walk to The Bund, the city's most famous waterfront. Known as an "Exhibition of International Buildings," this area features 52 historic structures in various architectural styles. From here, enjoy a stunning view of the modern skyscrapers across the river.

Finally, ascend the Shanghai Tower. Standing at 632 meters, it is China’s tallest building. Take the elevator to the 118th floor (546 meters) for a breathtaking, panoramic view of modern Shanghai.

This morning, your guide will meet you in the hotel lobby for a peaceful visit to the Jade Buddha Temple. Tucked away amidst Shanghai’s modern skyscrapers, this active Buddhist temple is home to about 70 resident monks. It is famous for its magnificent jade Buddha statues and is a serene spot where locals come to pray for prosperity.

If time permits, we will take a short detour to Tianzifang in the historic French Concession. This charming area is a labyrinth of narrow alleys featuring preserved Shikumen architecture, local art galleries, and quaint cafes—a perfect place to observe authentic Shanghai life.

Afterward, we will head to the airport for your flight to Yichang (approx. 2.5 hours).

Upon arrival, take the cruise company's complimentary shuttle from the Yichang Three Gorges Center Cruise Terminal to Maoping Port. Please ensure you arrive for embarkation between 19:00 and 20:00. Get ready for an unforgettable journey along the Yangtze!

Today, your journey begins on the majestic Yangtze River, Asia’s longest waterway. Embrace the relaxed pace of life on board as you sail through the heart of China. The cruise offers a variety of enriching activities, including lectures on Yangtze history, cultural performances, and the festive Captain’s Welcome Party.

The highlight of the day is the Three Gorges Dam, China’s most ambitious hydropower project. Standing 181 meters tall and stretching over 2,300 meters, it is a true feat of modern engineering. You will have the chance to view the massive dam and its complex lock system. 

For an even closer look, you may choose to experience the Three Gorges Dam Ship Lift (optional), which lifts vessels vertically—a thrilling and unique perspective on this massive structure.

Today, prepare for a full day of breathtaking scenery as we navigate the legendary Three Gorges. We will sail through the rugged, turbulent waters of Xiling Gorge, the serene and secluded beauty of Wuxia Gorge, and the magnificent, precipitous cliffs of Qutang Gorge. Relax on deck as your guide brings the landscape to life with fascinating stories.

Enjoy a shore excursion to the Shennv Stream (Goddess Stream) in Wushan County. You will switch to a smaller boat to navigate this pristine stream, offering a close-up view of towering mountains and ancient hanging coffins perched high on the cliffs. If you're feeling festive, join the local Tujia ethnic guides for a traditional song and dance performance.

Optional Excursion:

For an extra fee, you may visit White Emperor City (Baidi Cheng). This historic site is famous for the Three Kingdoms legend where Emperor Liu Bei entrusted his son to the brilliant strategist Zhuge Liang. It is also immortalized in the poetry of Li Bai, the great Tang Dynasty poet, who captured the spirit of the Yangtze in his timeless verses.

Enjoy a leisurely morning as your cruise glides peacefully along the Yangtze River. Wake up to the gentle sunlight reflecting off the water—the perfect backdrop for a relaxing breakfast. Today, you can choose to join a shore excursion to explore traditional cultural sites or stay on board to unwind and enjoy the river views.

This morning, join your English-speaking guide for a visit to the Fengdu Ghost City. This fascinating complex of temples and shrines is steeped in legend, offering a unique look into Chinese mythology, the afterlife, and tales of folklore.

Alternatively, you may choose an optional excursion to the Shibaozhai Pagoda (extra fee). Located in Zhongxian County, this 12-story red wooden pagoda is considered one of the world's most extraordinary architectural feats. Climb to the top for a stunning panoramic view of the river.

As evening falls, join us for the Captain's Farewell Party. Enjoy a celebratory dinner followed by a lively cabaret show—a perfect way to toast to your final night on the Yangtze.

Your Yangtze cruise concludes this morning at Chongqing Chaotianmen Port around 09:00. After disembarking, your local guide will meet you to begin your exploration of the "Mountain City."

First, visit the Chongqing China Three Gorges Museum. This impressive institution houses an extensive collection of Ba-Shu bronzes, ancient calligraphy, and cultural relics that tell the story of the Yangtze region. Next, step back in time at Ciqikou Ancient Town. Once a bustling "Porcelain Port" during the Ming and Qing dynasties, this riverside town offers a charming glimpse into old Chongqing with its traditional architecture and winding stone streets.

After your tour, you will be escorted to the train station for your high-speed train to Chengdu (approx. 1.5–2.5 hours).

Welcome to Chengdu, the hometown of giant pandas! Upon arrival, your guide will meet you and escort you to your hotel. The rest of the day is yours to explore this laid-back city. We highly recommend ending your day by sampling authentic Sichuan hotpot or catching a traditional Sichuan Opera performance.

After breakfast, your guide will meet you in the hotel lobby for an early start. We head 17 kilometers out of the city to the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding.

The Chengdu Panda Base is the world’s largest captive panda center. It’s best to arrive early while the weather is cool, as the pandas are most active in the morning. Watch them climb, eat, and play in their naturalistic enclosures. You’ll also visit the Red Panda Playgrounds to see these adorable, smaller cousins up close, and explore the Panda Museum to learn about ongoing conservation efforts.

In the afternoon, we drive about an hour (50km) to the mysterious Sanxingdui Site Museum. This site has captivated archaeologists since its discovery in 1929, revealing a brilliant civilization that thrived 3,000 to 5,000 years ago.

The museum’s collection is truly world-class. In the Bronze Pavilion, marvel at the towering Bronze Sacred Tree, the massive Bronze Standing Figure, and the unique Vertical-eyed Bronze Mask. Continue to the Comprehensive Pavilion to see the Gold Scepter, ancient jade artifacts, and even a three-legged ceramic vessel that looks strikingly like a modern hotpot. These artifacts prove that the ancient Shu Kingdom was a sophisticated society that predates much of what we knew about Sichuan history.

After this journey into the ancient past, we will drive back to downtown Chengdu.

Start your morning with a stroll through Jinli Old Street. With over 1,800 years of history, this vibrant street is the perfect place to soak up Ancient Shu culture. Wander the stone-paved paths, sample delicious local snacks, and enjoy traditional folk performances. Afterward, your guide will escort you to the airport for your flight to Lhasa (approx. 2.5 hours).

Tashi Delek! Welcome to Lhasa, the spiritual heart of the Tibetan Plateau. Upon arrival, your local guide and driver will meet you at the airport and transfer you to your downtown hotel. Take the rest of the day to rest and acclimatize to the high altitude (3,650m). You’ll want to be well-rested for our adventures tomorrow.

Today, dive into the heart of Lhasa. We will explore iconic landmarks, rich history, and the vibrant local culture that defines the Tibetan spirit.

In the morning, visit the Potala Palace, the winter residence of the Dalai Lamas from 1649 to 1959. As you ascend the 365 steps to the Red Palace, you’ll reach the world’s highest palace at an altitude of 3,700 meters. Inside, marvel at the intricate chapels, exquisite jeweled shrines, and ancient murals. You will likely see devoted pilgrims who have traveled from afar to pay their respects at this sacred site. Your guide will share the fascinating history of King Songtsen Gampo, who founded the palace in the 7th century for his marriage to Princess Wencheng.

Next, head to the 1,300-year-old Jokhang Temple, the spiritual center of Tibet and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Built by King Songtsen Gampo for his Chinese and Nepalese brides, the temple houses a life-sized statue of the 12-year-old Sakyamuni—the most revered treasure in the Buddhist world. Watching the pilgrims pray here, day and night, is a deeply moving experience where time seems to stand still.

Finally, take a stroll through Barkhor Street. Originally a pilgrimage circuit (kora) around the temple, it is now a thriving local market. It’s the perfect place to sample local snacks, browse for Tibetan, Nepalese, and Indian handicrafts, or even dress in traditional Tibetan clothing for a memorable photo.

Today, explore two of Tibet’s "Great Three" Gelug monasteries. These sites offer a deep dive into the spiritual and academic traditions that have shaped Tibetan Buddhism for centuries.

In the morning, we drive to Drepung Monastery, once the largest monastery in Lhasa and the former residence of the Dalai Lamas. It remains a site of immense historical significance. It is most famous for the annual Shoton Festival, where a massive Thangka is unveiled amidst grand celebrations. Wander through its impressive halls and, if the timing is right, witness the monks engaged in their traditional, spirited debates.

Afterward, enjoy a two-hour cultural immersion at the Tibet Handicraft Art Center. This is a fantastic opportunity to watch local artisans at work. Learn the intricate techniques behind Thangka painting, wood carving, pottery, and traditional jewelry making.

In the afternoon, we visit Sera Monastery. With its white stone pathways and serene courtyards, the compound feels remarkably peaceful. The highlight here is the monks’ debate, held daily from 15:00 to 17:00 (except Sundays). You will see the questioner standing while the responder sits. Watch closely as the monks clap their hands and stomp their feet—these gestures are not aggressive, but are symbolic actions used to activate wisdom and sharpen their theological arguments. After this fascinating experience, we will return to your hotel.

Your guide will escort you to the airport this morning for your flight to Xi'an (approx. 3 hours).

Welcome to Xi'an, the historic capital of 13 ancient Chinese dynasties! Upon arrival at the airport, your local guide and driver will meet you at the exit and transfer you to your hotel. The rest of the day is yours to relax or explore the surroundings at your own pace.

After breakfast, your guide will take you to the Terracotta Army Museum, one of the world's greatest archaeological discoveries. Built by China's first emperor, Qin Shihuang, to guard his afterlife, this site houses over 8,000 life-sized warriors. You will begin at the largest pit, home to over 6,000 figures. Marvel at the sheer scale and the incredible artistry of these ancient soldiers. Next, you will explore another pit to see archers, chariots, and infantry formations, offering a detailed look at this subterranean army.

After lunch, we return to the city center to visit the Ancient City Wall. This fortification is one of the oldest and best-preserved in China. Enjoy a leisurely walk along the ramparts to admire the watchtowers and moat, while taking in panoramic views of modern Xi'an.

In the late afternoon, we will head to the bustling Muslim Quarter. This vibrant neighborhood is a paradise for food lovers and a fascinating cultural hub. Wander through the lively streets, sample authentic local snacks, and soak in the unique atmosphere where history and daily life blend seamlessly.

This morning, your guide will take you to visit the Giant Wild Goose Pagoda. Located within the Da Ci’en Temple complex, this UNESCO World Heritage site dates back 1,370 years to the Tang Dynasty. It was originally built to house sacred Buddhist scriptures brought back from India by the monk Xuanzang. Ask your guide about Xuanzang’s legendary 17-year journey along the Silk Road, during which he traversed over 100 countries to bring Buddhism back to China.

Hanfu Experience:

Step back in time with a traditional Hanfu experience. You will dress in exquisite, traditional Chinese attire—the style worn during the Tang Dynasty—and enjoy a professional photo session against the backdrop of the ancient pagoda and temple grounds. It is a perfect way to capture the elegance of ancient Xi'an and immerse yourself in the city's rich cultural heritage.

After the tour, you will be transferred to the station for your high-speed train to Beijing (approx. 4.5–5.5 hours). Upon arrival, your Beijing guide will meet you at the train station and escort you to your hotel. The rest of the day is yours to relax or explore the neighborhood at your own pace.

Today, you will explore the imperial heart of Beijing, visiting iconic landmarks that define China’s rich history and royal grandeur.

After breakfast, your guide will meet you at your hotel and head to Tian’anmen Square. As the world’s largest public square and a potent symbol of modern China, it has been the stage for many historic events. It offers the perfect vantage point to photograph the iconic Tiananmen Gate, famous for its daily appearance on national news.

Walk across the square to enter the Forbidden City, the world’s largest palace complex. Once home to 24 emperors during the Ming and Qing dynasties, this UNESCO World Heritage site served as China’s political and ritual center for over 500 years. With 8,728 rooms, it is a "city within a city." Enter through the Meridian Gate and follow the central axis to explore the most significant halls and courtyards. Your guide will bring the history to life, sharing the hidden stories of the emperors who once walked these grounds. Afterward, take a short 15-minute walk to Jingshan Park for a stunning panoramic view over the russet-colored roofs of the Forbidden City and the modern skyline of Beijing.

In the afternoon, we drive to the Summer Palace, often called the "Museum of Royal Gardens." This was the imperial family’s favorite resort for escaping the summer heat. The grounds are a masterpiece of Chinese landscaping, featuring intricate temples, pavilions, bridges, and the expansive Kunming Lake. Enjoy a leisurely stroll through the long corridors and take in the hilltop views that feel like stepping into a traditional Chinese painting.

This morning, we head northwest of Beijing (approx. 1.5–2 hours) to the Mutianyu Great Wall. Spanning over 2,000 years of history, the Great Wall is one of humanity’s most impressive architectural feats.

The Mutianyu Great Wall is renowned for being the longest, best-restored section, offering a more tranquil experience with fewer crowds. Famous for its 23 Ming-era watchtowers, it provides breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Take the cable car up to the 14th watchtower and begin your hike along the western route. Surrounded by lush pines and cypresses, the wall winds majestically across the ridges. Challenge yourself by hiking up to the 20th watchtower—the highest point—to truly fulfill your Great Wall dream. Don't forget your camera; the scenery here is spectacular. Take cable car to get down.

After this unforgettable experience, we return to downtown Beijing. We will make a photo stop at the Bird's Nest (Beijing National Stadium) and the Water Cube (Beijing National Aquatics Center). These iconic structures were designed for the 2008 Beijing Olympics and later served as key venues for the 2022 Winter Olympic Games.

Afterward, we will transfer you back to your hotel to relax and have a good rest.

This morning, we visit the Temple of Heaven. Located within Tiantan Park, this UNESCO World Heritage site is a masterpiece of symbolic design and architectural precision. Historically, this is where 22 emperors performed annual rites to pray for bountiful harvests. Discover the fascinating acoustics of the Echo Wall and the Triple Sound Stones, and learn about the grand ceremonies once held here. Today, the park is a vibrant hub for locals; feel free to join them as they practice morning exercises, tai chi, or traditional dance.

If time permits, immerse yourself in the charm of old Beijing by exploring the Hutongs. Take a traditional rickshaw ride through these narrow, winding alleys. It is the perfect way to experience the city's authentic, grassroots culture and browse the unique local shops tucked away in these historic neighborhoods.

As your 17-day China Tour from Shanghai comes to an end, your guide will escort you to the airport or train station for your departure.

Thank you for choosing Asia Odyssey Travel. We have been honored to be part of your adventure and look forward to welcoming you back to China soon!