15 Days Diverse China Tour with Pandas, Yangtze & Zhangjiajie Mountains

Welcome to Beijing, the historic capital of China! Upon your arrival at the airport or train station, our local team will meet you at the exit. They will assist with your luggage and provide a comfortable, direct transfer to your hotel in downtown Beijing.

The rest of the day is yours to unwind. You may choose to rest at your hotel to recover from jet lag or take a leisurely stroll through the neighborhood to get your first taste of the city. If you need recommendations for local dining or nearby attractions, feel free to ask your guide for personalized tips.

Tian'anmen Square & The Forbidden City

After breakfast, we head to Tian'anmen Square. As the world’s largest public square and a national symbol, it has witnessed decades of China’s modern history. From here, we walk through the Tiananmen Gate into the awe-inspiring Forbidden City. As the former home to 24 emperors, this UNESCO World Heritage site is a "city within a city." We will follow the central axis to explore its most significant halls, admiring the brilliant architecture and ancient art treasures while your guide shares stories of life inside the imperial court.

Jingshan Park

After exploring the palace, we take a short walk to Jingshan Park. This is the best spot in the city for a magnificent panorama. Look back to see the russet-colored rooftops of the Forbidden City stretching out before you—a truly iconic view of Beijing.

Summer Palace

In the afternoon, we drive to the Summer Palace, once the private retreat for the Qing Dynasty royal family. Known as the "Museum of Royal Gardens," it is a masterpiece of Chinese landscaping. Enjoy a leisurely walk along the lake, wander through ornate corridors, and admire the pavilions that look like scenes from a traditional ink painting.

Mutianyu Great Wall

This morning, we head northwest to the Mutianyu Great Wall (approx. 1.5–2 hours’ drive). This section is a masterpiece of ancient engineering and one of the best-preserved parts of the wall. With fewer crowds and stunning mountain vistas, it offers the perfect Great Wall experience.

We take a cable car up to the 14th watchtower to begin our visit. From here, you can enjoy a leisurely hike along the ramparts toward the 20th watchtower. Take your time to soak in the views of the winding wall as it snakes across the lush, forested ridges. It is a photographer’s dream and a truly unforgettable experience. Take cable car to get down.

Olympic Landmarks

After our time on the wall, we return to downtown Beijing. On the way, we make a photo stop at the Bird's Nest (National Stadium) and the Water Cube (National Aquatics Center). These iconic structures, famous for their roles in both the 2008 Summer Olympics and the 2022 Winter Olympics, are architectural marvels. After capturing some great photos, we transfer you back to your hotel for a well-deserved rest.

The Temple of Heaven

This morning, we visit the Temple of Heaven. Once the sacred site where emperors prayed for bountiful harvests, this architectural masterpiece is renowned for its unique design and symbolic layout. Explore the Echo Wall and Triple Sound Stones, then take a moment to observe—or even join—the locals practicing Tai Chi and traditional dances in the surrounding park.

Old Hutongs

Next, we dive into the city’s authentic charm with a rickshaw tour through the Old Hutongs. Wind through these narrow, historic alleys to see a side of Beijing that feels untouched by time, passing by traditional courtyard homes and local shops.

High Speed Train to Xi’an

After lunch, your guide will escort you to the railway station for your high-speed train to Xi’an (approx. 4.5–5.5 hours). Welcome to the capital of 13 ancient dynasties! Upon arrival, your local guide and driver will meet you at the station and transfer you directly to your hotel for a relaxing evening.

Terracotta Warriors Museum

This morning, we drive to the Terracotta Warriors Museum. This UNESCO World Heritage site houses an army of 8,000 life-sized soldiers, horses, and chariots, all silent for over 2,000 years. Your guide will lead you through Pit One, Two, and Three, sharing the fascinating history behind these unique, hand-crafted figures. Afterward, you will have a rare opportunity to craft your own miniature warrior with a local potter—a great way to appreciate the ancient techniques of the Qin Dynasty.

Ancient City Wall

Back in the city, we visit the Ancient City Wall. As one of the best-preserved fortifications in China, it offers a perfect vantage point to see the city. You can take a leisurely walk along the ramparts or rent a bike to cycle the perimeter. It provides a stunning panoramic view, perfectly showcasing the blend of Xi’an's historic past and modern skyline.

Muslim Quarter & Great Mosque

Next, we dive into the vibrant Muslim Quarter. This area is a paradise for food lovers, filled with local snacks and a unique blend of cultures. We will also visit the Great Mosque, an architectural gem that beautifully fuses Islamic and Chinese design styles.

Grand Tang Dynasty Ever Bright City

As evening falls, we visit the Grand Tang Dynasty Ever Bright City. This immersive pedestrian street brings the Tang Dynasty to life with brilliant light shows, traditional performances, and stunning architecture. It feels like stepping back in time to the golden age of Chinese history.

Giant Wild Goose Pagoda

This morning, we visit the Giant Wild Goose Pagoda, an iconic symbol of the Tang Dynasty. Located within the tranquil Da Ci'en Temple, this seven-story pagoda was built to house Buddhist sutras brought back from India.

It is a perfect spot to immerse yourself in local culture - try on traditional Hanfu clothing (optional experience) and capture some stunning photos against the ancient backdrop.

Shaanxi History Museum

Next, we explore the Shaanxi History Museum. Often called the "Pearl of Ancient Dynasties," it houses over 130,000 artifacts. From Western Zhou bronzes to Tang Dynasty murals, this museum offers a fascinating, comprehensive look at thousands of years of Chinese history.

High Speed Train to Chengdu

After the tour, we escort you to the station for your high-speed train to Chengdu (approx. 3.5–4 hours). Upon arrival, your local guide will meet you and transfer you to your hotel. The rest of the evening is yours to enjoy. We highly recommend exploring the city’s laid-back atmosphere, trying authentic Sichuan hotpot, or catching a traditional Sichuan Opera performance.

Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding

We start early this morning to visit the Chengdu Panda Base. Pandas are most active in the cool morning air, making this the best time to watch them play, climb, and eat. As the world’s largest sanctuary for captive giant pandas, this base is home to over 100 pandas of all ages. You will have plenty of time to observe these gentle giants in their naturalistic habitats and visit the nursery houses to see the adorable cubs. We will also stop by the Red Panda Playgrounds to meet these smaller, equally charming residents.

Leshan Giant Buddha

After lunch, we drive (approx. 2.5 hours) to the Leshan Giant Buddha. Carved directly into a cliff face over 1,200 years ago, this 71-meter-tall statue is the largest stone-carved Buddha in the world. To fully appreciate its massive scale and the artistry of the ancient craftsmen, we will take a scenic boat trip on the river. Seeing the Buddha from the water offers the most spectacular view, allowing you to understand the local saying: "The mountain is a Buddha, and the Buddha is a mountain."

After the tour, your guide and driver will escort you back to your hotel in downtown Chengdu.

Wenshu Monastery

Start your morning at Wenshu Monastery, a 1,400-year-old sanctuary and one of the most important Zen temples in China. Admire the exquisite Qing-style architecture and the tranquil courtyards. It is the perfect place to find stillness before the day begins. You may even choose to enjoy a healthy, traditional vegetarian meal within the monastery grounds.

Renmin Park (People's Park)

Next, we dive into Chengdu’s famous "slow life" at Renmin Park. This is where the city comes to life. Watch locals practice Taiji, play mahjong, or enjoy folk music. We will stop at a traditional teahouse, such as the historic Heming Tea House, to sip fragrant jasmine tea. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even try a professional ear-cleaning service—a unique local custom!

Jinli Old Street

As the afternoon transitions to evening, we explore Jinli Old Street. With its traditional architecture and bustling atmosphere, it is the perfect place to soak in the local culture. Stroll past shops filled with folk handicrafts, sample authentic Sichuan snacks like Dan Dan noodles, and watch traditional performances like sugar painting or Sichuan Opera.

Departure to Chongqing & Cruise Boarding

After the tour, we escort you to the station for your high-speed train to Chongqing (approx. 1–1.5 hours). Upon arrival, your guide will meet you and transfer you to Chongqing Chaotianmen Port. Take a moment to enjoy the stunning night views of the city skyline before checking into your Yangtze River cruise ship. Your journey begins tonight!

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 in this morning. 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.

The Three Gorges

Today, we sail through the majestic Three Gorges. We begin with Qutang Gorge, famous for its sheer cliffs and the iconic Kui Gate. Next, we enter the serene and secluded Wuxia Gorge, followed by the rugged, winding waters of Xiling Gorge. Throughout the day, enjoy live commentary from your guide as you take in the breathtaking landscapes from the comfort of the deck.

Shore Excursion: Shennv Stream

This afternoon, we take a shore excursion to Shennv Stream (Goddess Stream) in Wushan County. We will switch to a smaller boat to navigate this pristine waterway, offering a close-up view of the towering cliffs and ancient hanging coffins. You will also have the chance to experience traditional singing and dancing performances by local Tujia guides.

Captain’s Farewell Party

As evening falls, join your fellow travelers for the Captain’s Farewell Party. It is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the journey over a pleasant dinner and share memories of your time on the river.

Three Gorges Dam

After breakfast, we disembark at Maoping Port. Our final highlight is the Three Gorges Dam, the largest hydropower project in the world. Standing 181 meters tall and spanning over two kilometers, it is a true marvel of modern engineering. You will have the chance to view the massive dam structure and its complex lock system.

Optional Experience: You may choose to take the Three Gorges Dam Ship Lift for a closer, more thrilling look at the dam’s scale as you are lifted vertically.

Transfer to Zhangjiajie

After the tour, you will be transferred to the Yichang Three Gorges Center Cruise Terminal (arriving between 12:30 and 13:30, depending on your chosen activities). Your private driver will meet you there to begin the scenic 5-hour drive to Wulingyuan, Zhangjiajie. Upon arrival, you will check into your hotel and have the rest of the evening to relax and explore the area at your leisure.

Morning: Yuanjiajie (The Avatar Mountains)

We begin our day at Zhangjiajie National Forest Park. We will ascend via the Bailong Elevator, the world’s tallest outdoor elevator, which whisks you 326 meters up the cliffside in just over a minute.

At the summit, we explore Yuanjiajie, the inspiration for the floating mountains in the movie Avatar. Walk the scenic trail along the cliff’s edge to see the iconic South Sky Pillar (the Hallelujah Mountain) and the First Bridge Under Heaven, a natural stone arch of incredible scale. You will also enjoy panoramic views from the Lost Soul Platform and the Backyard Garden, where thousands of quartz sandstone pillars rise from the mist.

Afternoon: Tianzi Mountain Nature Reserve

After lunch, we head to Tianzi Mountain, often called the "King of Peaks." This area is famous for its dramatic, jagged skyline and sea-of-clouds vistas. We will visit the Dianjiangtai Platform to overlook the West Sea Peaks Forest, a dense, rugged landscape of stone pillars.

Don't miss the Imperial Writing Brush Peaks, a striking cluster of six slender stone pillars that resemble calligraphy brushes. We will also take a stroll through He Long Park to see the statue of the famous Marshal and visit the Tianzige Pavilion for a final, sweeping view of the mountain range.

After the tour, we will return to Zhangjiajie City for the evening.

Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon & Glass Bridge

After breakfast, we drive to the Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon (approx. 1.5 hours). Here, you will walk across the world-famous Glass Bridge. Stretching 375 meters between two dramatic cliffs and suspended 300 meters above the forest floor, this transparent skywalk offers a heart-pounding experience and incredible panoramic views. For the ultimate thrill-seeker, the world’s highest bungee jump platform is located right in the center (optional, self-pay).

Baofeng Lake

After lunch, we visit the tranquil Baofeng Lake to restore your inner peace. Nestled in a basin surrounded by lush mountains, this crystal-clear alpine lake is the perfect contrast to the morning's excitement. You will take a relaxing wooden boat ride across the water, enjoying the reflections of the peaks and listening to traditional folk songs performed by local minority singers.

Departure to Shanghai

After the tour, your guide will escort you to the airport for your evening flight to Shanghai (approx. 2 hours). Upon arrival, your local Shanghai guide will meet you at the airport and transfer you to your hotel for a well-deserved rest.

Shanghai Museum

We begin our day at the Shanghai Museum, a world-class institution housing over 5,000 years of Chinese history. Its unique architecture—designed to resemble a traditional bronze vessel—is a sight in itself. Inside, you will explore an incredible collection of ancient bronzes, ceramics, and calligraphy. It is the perfect introduction to the depth and artistry of Chinese culture.

Shanghai Tower

Next, we head to the Shanghai Tower, China’s tallest skyscraper. We will ascend to the 118th-floor observation deck, standing 546 meters above the city. From this vantage point, you will enjoy a breathtaking, panoramic view of the modern Shanghai skyline and the winding Huangpu River below.

Yu Garden & Yuyuan Bazaar

Afterward, we step back in time at Yu Garden. This classical Ming Dynasty garden is a peaceful oasis hidden in the heart of the bustling city. Stroll through its ornate pavilions, rockeries, and ponds. Just outside, you will find the vibrant Yuyuan Bazaar, a lively area perfect for sampling local snacks and shopping for traditional handicrafts.

Nanjing Road & The Bund

We continue our walk along Nanjing Road, Shanghai’s famous pedestrian shopping street, known for its endless array of shops and cafes. Our day concludes at The Bund. Famous for its collection of colonial-era architecture, it offers the most iconic view of the city. From here, you can gaze across the river at the futuristic skyscrapers of the Pudong district—the perfect spot to capture the essence of Shanghai.

After the tour, be escorted back to your hotel in Shanghai.

Enjoy a final morning in Shanghai at your own pace. Whether you choose to revisit a favorite spot, pick up some last-minute souvenirs, or simply relax with a coffee, the time is yours to explore.

When it is time to depart, your guide will meet you at your hotel and escort you to the airport or train station for your onward journey.

Thank you for choosing Asia Odyssey Travel for your China adventure. It has been a pleasure to be part of your journey. We hope to welcome you back for your next trip to China or Asia soon!