11 Days Shanghai Zhangjiajie Xian Beijing Private China Tour

Nihao! Welcome to Shanghai, China’s most vibrant and international metropolis. This city is a unique fusion of Eastern tradition and Western flair, creating a culture unlike anywhere else.

Upon your arrival at the Shanghai Pudong International Airport or Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport (or the train station), your private guide and driver will meet you at the exit. They will then escort you directly to your hotel in downtown Shanghai.

The rest of the day is yours to enjoy. You can rest and recover from jet lag or head out to explore the neighborhood around your hotel at your own pace.

Arrival Tips:

Shanghai is incredibly accessible. You can fly in from major cities like Beijing, Xian, Guangzhou, Chengdu, Guilin, Kunming, Lijiang, or Lhasa. Alternatively, enjoy a scenic high-speed train ride from hubs like Beijing (4.5–6 hours), Xian (6–7.5 hours), Huangshan (2.5–3 hours), Suzhou (30 mins), or Hangzhou (45 mins).

Today, experience the perfect blend of East and West in the "Paris of the East." We will explore world-class museums, classical gardens, and the city’s iconic modern skyline.

Start your morning at the Shanghai Museum. Shaped like an ancient bronze ding vessel, it symbolizes the Chinese philosophy of "round sky, square earth." Dive into 5,000 years of history through 120,000 cultural relics. Don't miss the stunning Bronze and Ceramic galleries, featuring treasures like the 3,000-year-old Da Ke Ding.

Next, visit Yu Garden, a Ming Dynasty masterpiece hidden in the city center. Wander through its winding paths, intricate rockeries, and traditional architecture. Afterward, explore the vibrant Yuyuan Bazaar just outside. It’s the perfect spot to sample authentic local snacks and browse for traditional handicrafts.

In the afternoon, stroll down Nanjing Road, China’s "Number One Commercial Street." It is lined with famous brands, historic shops, and bustling cafes. Continue your walk to The Bund, Shanghai’s most iconic waterfront. Known as an "Exhibition of International Buildings," this promenade offers the best views of the colonial-era architecture against the futuristic skyline of Pudong.

Finally, ascend the Shanghai Tower, China’s tallest building. Ride the world's fastest elevator to the 118th-floor observatory, 546 meters above the ground, for a breathtaking, 360-degree panoramic view of modern Shanghai.

After the tour, be transferred to your hotel in 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 bustling modern skyscrapers, this active Buddhist sanctuary is home to about 70 resident monks. Here, you can admire the world’s largest jade Buddha statue and observe local devotees praying for prosperity.

If time permits, we will visit Tianzifang in the historic French Concession. This creative enclave is perfect for browsing local arts and crafts, admiring traditional Shikumen architecture, and catching a glimpse of daily life in old Shanghai.

Afterward, you will head to the airport for your flight to Zhangjiajie (approximately 2.5 hours).

Welcome to Zhangjiajie, the inspiration for the magical "Avatar" mountains! Upon arrival, your local guide and driver will meet you at the airport and escort you to your hotel in the Wulingyuan area. Enjoy the rest of the evening at your leisure to relax and prepare for the adventures ahead.

After breakfast, you will have a whole day to explore Wulingyuan Scenic Area, a spectacular island of nature dominated by more than 3,000 narrow quartz sandstone pillars. First, take a sightseeing bus to Bailong Elevator that within 1.5 minutes you can go from the valley bottom up to the pillar peak. It is the fastest and as well as the tallest outdoor elevator in the world. Next, enjoy the hike into a mysterious Pandora World - Yuanjiajie, where is rightly the shooting location of “Hallelujah Mountains” in reality. Catch the chance to shoot South Sky Pillar, the landmark of Yuanjiajie, about 150 meters high vertically rising high from the deep valley, looking like a giant standing so upright under heaven. Go to the Enchanting Platform for a marvel at the unbelievable scenery with hundreds of various peaks like bamboo shoots towering from the grounds. And then enjoy the lush scenery of Natural Bonsai at Backyard Garden.

Next, take the sightseeing bus to the second tourist site - Tianzi Mountain Nature Reserve which was named after the leader of the local Tujia ethnic group - Xiang Dakun in early Ming Dynasty (1368-1644). It is a fairyland in moive Monkey King. Hike to He Long Park which has a fascinating viewing deck to appreciate the incredible and magnificent scene of peculiar stone peaks. Move to Dianjiang Terrace to overlook the West Sea Stone Forest, rugged rock rising out of a misty canyon. 

The last stop today is the Ten-mile Galley. You will take a small green train to explore the beautiful scenery where you will feel like get through a Chinese ink painting. 

After the tour, get back to your hotel for a good rest.

After breakfast, head to the Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon for an unforgettable experience on the Grand Canyon Glass Bridge. Spanning 430 meters long and suspended 300 meters above the valley floor, it is the world's longest and highest glass bridge. Walking across the transparent panels feels like floating in mid-air and offers heart-stopping, panoramic views of the canyon below.

After your adrenaline-filled morning, find tranquility at Baofeng Lake. This idyllic, high-altitude lake is surrounded by lush green forests and unique stone peaks. Enjoy a leisurely boat cruise across the calm waters, where you can admire the reflections of the mountains and listen to traditional folk songs performed by local minority singers. It is the perfect way to unwind after an exciting day.

After breakfast, your guide and driver will pick you up at your hotel lobby. Today, you will make a breathtaking visit to Tianmen Mountain, one of the world’s most beautiful mountains. You won’t miss the chance to experience the world’s longest cable car, walk on the glass skywalk, and pay a visit Heaven’s Door and view Avenue toward Heaven with 99 turns.

First, go to take the 30-minute cable car with 7,455 meters in length which means you’ll travel from the city of Zhangjiajie to the top of Tianmen Mountain. From the cable car you will have a perfect view of Heaven’s Door and a shocking look at the wandering Avenue toward Heaven. Next, move to Tianmen Temple where you can enjoy the typical Qing Dynasty styled Buddhist structure with verdant forest surrounding by.

Now, the challenge time is coming. Hold your breath to experience the scary walks on the cliff path hanging on the mountain. Walk on the Glass Skywalk, which is transparent glass 1430 meters above the bottomless valley, giving you a thrilling feeling like walking in the sky. Also, try the 1.6-kilometer-long Cliff-Hanging Walkway, built along the edges of the mountain’s summits. Amazing, isn’t it? After that, go down by escalator from the peak to Tianmen Cave which is also known as “Heaven’s Door”. Tianmen Cave is a natural arch between two peaks of a height of 131.5 meters, rising above the ground and closing to the sky with a lofty and towering posture. It is the highest hole of its sort in the world. (Note: Tianmen Mountain is the famous spot for Wingsuit Flying, you might have a chance to witness this unbelievable sport there.) After the memorable time, take the cable car down the mountain. And then, you will be transferred to Wulingyuan area and have accommodation here.

After the tour, it is time to say goodbye to Zhangjiajie. You will be escorted to the airport for your night flight to Xian (about 2 hours). Upon your arrival in Xian, the local guide will meet you at the exit of the airport and escort you to your hotel.

Start your morning with a drive to the Terracotta Army Museum, one of the world’s greatest archaeological wonders. Built by China’s first emperor, Qin Shihuang, to guard his afterlife, this subterranean army of 8,000 life-sized warriors is truly awe-inspiring. Explore the massive main pit to see thousands of soldiers standing in silent formation. Then, visit the second pit to get a closer look at the intricate details of the archers, cavalry, and chariots. You will be amazed by the incredible craftsmanship of these 2,200-year-old figures. 

After lunch, return to downtown Xian to visit the Ancient City Wall. As one of the oldest and best-preserved fortifications in China, it offers a fascinating glimpse into the city's defensive history. Enjoy a leisurely walk along the top of the wall to admire the watchtowers and moats, while taking in panoramic views of modern Xian.

In the late afternoon, immerse yourself in the vibrant local culture at the Muslim Quarter. This bustling neighborhood is a paradise for food lovers. Wander through the lively streets, soak in the unique atmosphere, and sample delicious local snacks that reflect the city's rich history.

This morning, your guide will take you to 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 Buddhist scriptures brought back from India by the legendary monk Xuanzang. Your guide will share the incredible story of his 17-year journey along the Silk Road, traveling through 100 countries to bring the teachings of Buddhism back to Chang’an (ancient Xian).

Hanfu Experience:

Before leaving Xian, enjoy a unique Hanfu experience. You will have the chance to dress in traditional Chinese attire, perfect for capturing memorable photos against the backdrop of ancient architecture.

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

Today, immerse yourself in the heart of imperial China. We will explore the iconic landmarks and royal retreats that define Beijing’s historic legacy.

Your day begins at Tian’anmen Square, the world’s largest public square and a powerful symbol of modern China. It is the perfect spot to capture photos of the historic gate frequently seen in national broadcasts.

Walk across the square to enter the Forbidden City. This massive palace complex served as the home to 24 emperors during the Ming and Qing dynasties. With over 8,000 rooms, it is the world's largest and best-preserved imperial residence. Follow the central axis to explore its grand halls, intricate architecture, and hidden treasures while your guide shares stories of life within these walls.

Afterward, take a short walk to Jingshan Park. Climb to the top for a breathtaking panoramic view of the Forbidden City’s golden roofs against the backdrop of modern Beijing.

In the afternoon, visit the Summer Palace, a stunning "Museum of Royal Gardens." Once a summer resort for the imperial family, this sprawling complex features beautiful lakes, bridges, temples, and pavilions. Enjoy a leisurely stroll through this landscape, which feels like stepping directly into a traditional Chinese painting.

This morning, drive northwest to the Mutianyu Great Wall (approx. 1.5–2 hours). This section is a masterpiece of ancient engineering, famous for its excellent restoration, fewer crowds, and stunning mountain views. It features 23 original Ming-era watchtowers that wind majestically across the ridge.

Take the cable car up to the 14th watchtower. From there, enjoy a memorable hike along the ramparts. The surrounding landscape is lush and breathtaking, offering the perfect backdrop for photos. For the ultimate challenge, climb up to the 20th watchtower. Reaching this point fulfills your Great Wall dream and provides the most iconic panoramic views of this ancient wonder.

After this once-in-a-lifetime experience, return to downtown Beijing. Stop for photos at the exterior of the Bird's Nest (Beijing National Stadium) and the Water Cube (Beijing National Aquatics Center). These architectural icons were designed for the 2008 Beijing Olympics and later hosted events for the 2022 Winter Olympic Games.

Afterward, transfer back to your hotel.

This morning you will head to Temple of Heaven. Located in Beijing's Tiantan Park, the Temple of Heaven is much bigger than the Forbidden City and smaller than the Summer Palace. As a World Heritage, the Temple of Heaven (Taoist temple) is also known for its rigorous symbolic layout, peculiar structure, and magnificent decoration. The Temple of Heaven used to be a place to offer sacrifice to Heaven by 22 Chinese emperors twice a year for good harvests. You can learn more about the grand praying ceremony there, as well as observe the amazing designs such as the Echo Wall and the Triple Sound Stones. Nowadays, it is also a park for local people to do morning exercise and you are welcome to join them.

If there is more time, you can also enjoy the relaxing time exploring the ordinary local life through the old Hutongs. Take a rickshaw tour to travel through the narrow alleys with many featured shops standing on both sides.

Then, it is time to end your 11-day China tour. Your guide will escort you to the airport/train station for your flight or high speed train to your next destination.

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.