Overview
This 14-day classic China route connects southwest China’s relaxed charm with northern imperial grandeur and eastern cosmopolitan flair.
Start in Chengdu for pandas and Sichuan culture, explore ancient capitals in Xi’an and Beijing, then conclude in dynamic Shanghai — where tradition meets the future.
Highlights
- Meet giant pandas at Chengdu Panda Base
- Marvel at Leshan Giant Buddha
- Explore sacred Mount Emei
- Discover the legendary Terracotta Army
- Walk atop Xi’an Ancient City Wall
- Conquer the Mutianyu Great Wall
- Visit the imperial Forbidden City
- Experience Shanghai’s skyline along the Bund
Itinerary
Day 1: Chengdu Airport → Hotel
The Experience:
Arrive in Chengdu and transfer to your hotel. Enjoy a relaxed evening in this laid-back city known for its cuisine and teahouse culture.
Day 2: Chengdu Panda Base → Jinli Old Street
The Experience:
Visit the adorable pandas at the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding. Watch them feed and play in bamboo-filled enclosures.
Later, stroll through Jinli Ancient Street, filled with traditional architecture, snacks, and handicrafts.
Highlights:
- Panda encounter & cultural street
Tips:
- Visit pandas early when they are most active.
Day 3: Chengdu → Leshan → Mount Emei
The Experience:
Travel to see the colossal Leshan Giant Buddha, carved into a cliff face over 1,200 years ago. Choose between a scenic boat view or walking the cliff pathway.
In the late afternoon, transfer to the foot of Mount Emei and check into the hotel.
Highlights:
- UNESCO World Heritage Site
71-meter cliff-carved Buddha - Scenic mountain retreat
Tips:
- Be prepared for the steps when viewing the Buddha.
- The weather can change quickly in the mountains.
Day 4: Mount Emei → Chengdu
The Experience:
Explore sacred Mount Emei, one of China’s Four Sacred Buddhist Mountains. Ride cable cars and walk forest trails with panoramic views.
After descending, return to the Chengdu hotel.
Highlights:
- Golden Summit views
- Sacred Buddhist temples
- Sea of clouds scenery
Tips:
- Layered clothing is recommended due to the elevation.
- Take a cable car to reduce hiking time.
Day 5: Chengdu → Xi’an
The Experience:
Travel by bullet train to Xi’an. In the afternoon, walk or bike atop the impressive Xi’an City Wall.
Highlights:
- Ancient fortification experience
Day 6: Terracotta Army → Muslim Quarter
The Experience:
Discover the world-famous Terracotta Army, built to guard China’s first emperor.
In the evening, explore the lively Muslim Quarter for local snacks.
Highlights:
- Archaeological wonder & street food
Tips:
- Visit early to avoid crowds.
Day 7: Xi’an → Beijing
The Experience:
Arrive in Beijing. After checking in, visit the elegant Temple of Heaven, where emperors once prayed for good harvests.
Highlights:
- Ming Dynasty architecture
Tips:
- The surrounding park is lively with locals.
Day 8: Forbidden City → Tiananmen Square
The Experience:
Explore the grand Forbidden City and walk across Tiananmen Square.
Highlights:
- Imperial palace complex
Tips:
- Comfortable walking shoes recommended.
Day 9: Mutianyu Great Wall
The Experience:
Climb the magnificent Mutianyu Great Wall, offering stunning mountain views and fewer crowds.
Highlights:
- Iconic Great Wall section
Tips:
- Cable car option available.
Day 10: Bird’s Nest, Water Cube & Hutong
The Experience:
Visit the Olympic landmarks — Beijing National Stadium (Bird’s Nest) and Beijing National Aquatics Center (Water Cube).
Explore traditional hutongs to experience local life.
Highlights:
- Modern architecture & old neighborhoods
Tips:
- Evening lighting is beautiful.
Day 11: Beijing → Shanghai
The Experience:
Arrive in Shanghai and enjoy a walk along the Bund, admiring the skyline of Pudong.
Highlights:
- Modern skyline views
Tips:
- Visit at sunset for the best photos.
Day 12: Shanghai Museum & Yu Garden
The Experience:
Visit the Shanghai Museum for ancient Chinese art.
Then explore the classical Yu Garden with its pavilions and ponds.
Highlights:
- Traditional Jiangnan architecture
Tips:
- Morning visits are less crowded.
Day 13: Shanghai Exploration
The Experience:
Enjoy a leisurely city walk through historic neighborhoods, local markets, and trendy districts, like Jade Buddha Temple, Tianzifang, French Concession, Nanjing Road, etc. Have a cup of coffee by the riverside.
Highlights:
- Blend of tradition & modern life
Tips:
- Optional Huangpu River cruise available.
Day 14: Shanghai | Departure
The Experience:
Transfer to the airport or train station for your onward journey, concluding your grand China adventure.
Accommodation
- Chengdu: 3 Nights
- Emei: 1 Night
- Xi'an: 1 Night
- Beijing: 4 Nights
- Shanghai: 4 Nights
Our standard selection features Comfort-tier hotels: highly rated, modern escapes handpicked for their prime locations near Metro hubs and attraction entrances.
Seeking something more personal? We offer fully customizable stays, from authentic boutique hideaways to world-class luxury retreats. Share your travel style, and we will curate a list of properties that perfectly match your vision and budget.
Cost
Included
- High-speed train tickets (Chengdu – Xi'an - Beijing - Shanghai).
- Private air-conditioned vehicle for all local transfers.
- Expert English-speaking local guide.
- All listed attraction entrance fees.
- 13 nights of hand-picked accommodation with breakfast.
Excluded
- International or domestic flights to/from Chengdu.
- Lunches and dinners (freedom to explore local tastes).
- Personal expenses.
- Travel insurance.
- Gratuities for guide and driver.
Transportation
- Chengdu → Xi’an: High-speed train
- Xi’an → Beijing: High-speed train
- Beijing → Shanghai: High-speed train
- City transport: Private vehicle & driver or metro lines
Essential Tips
- Avoid Chinese national holidays
- Bring comfortable walking shoes
Gallery
FAQ
Can this tour be shortened?
Yes, cities can be adjusted based on your schedule.
Are domestic flights available instead of trains?
Yes, flights can be arranged upon request.
Can hotels be upgraded?
Absolutely. Fully customizable options are available.
