Overview
From imperial capitals to dreamlike river landscapes, this 11-day China highlights tour connects the country’s most iconic experiences in one seamless journey.
Walk along the Great Wall in Beijing, uncover ancient dynasties in Xi’an, cruise through the stunning karst scenery of Guilin and Yangshuo, then end among the futuristic skyline of Shanghai.
Designed for first-time travelers, this classic China itinerary balances culture, history, nature, and modern city life with comfortable pacing, authentic local experiences, and flexible private touring throughout the journey.
Highlights
- Walk along the legendary Mutianyu Great Wall and experience one of China’s greatest historical wonders.
- Discover the imperial history of Beijing through the Forbidden City, Temple of Heaven, and traditional hutong neighborhoods.
- Visit the world-famous Terracotta Army and uncover the legacy of ancient Chinese dynasties in Xi'an.
- Cruise along the breathtaking Li River, surrounded by China’s iconic karst mountain landscapes.
- Slow down in Yangshuo with peaceful countryside scenery, local villages, and relaxing riverside atmosphere.
- Experience the contrast between ancient China and modern China.
Itinerary
Day 1: Beijing Airport / Railway Station→ Hotel
The Experience:
Welcome to Beijing, the historic heart of imperial China and the starting point of your classic China highlights tour.
After arriving at either Beijing Capital International Airport or Beijing Daxing International Airport, we will meet you at the arrival hall and transfer you directly to your hotel in the city.
Depending on your arrival time, you can spend the rest of the day relaxing after the flight or begin experiencing Beijing’s atmosphere with a gentle walk nearby.
Many travelers enjoy exploring local streets, visiting a traditional hutong area, or trying their first authentic Beijing dishes such as Peking duck or handmade dumplings.
Beijing is a city where ancient dynasties and modern city life exist side by side. As you settle in, you’ll already notice the contrast between historic architecture, local culture, and China’s rapidly changing urban landscape.
Highlights
- Private airport pickup and comfortable hotel transfer
- Flexible free time to rest or explore nearby neighborhoods
Tips
- Most hotels in China require passports during check-in, so keep them easily accessible.
- Overnight: Beijing
- Meals: No
Day 2: Tiananmen Square → Forbidden City → Summer Palace
The Experience:
Today, we step into the heart of imperial Beijing and explore some of the most iconic landmarks in Chinese history.
In the morning, we begin at Tiananmen Square, one of the world’s largest public squares and an important symbol of modern China.
As we walk through the square, you’ll see how Beijing blends political importance with centuries of cultural heritage.
From there, we enter the magnificent Forbidden City, the former imperial palace of the Ming and Qing dynasties. Walking through its grand courtyards, palace halls, and ancient gates, you’ll discover how Chinese emperors once ruled a vast empire from behind these walls.
We take our time here, as the Forbidden City is not only a UNESCO World Heritage Site, but also one of the most important cultural landmarks in China.
In the afternoon, we continue to the beautiful Summer Palace, a peaceful royal retreat filled with lakes, gardens, pavilions, and traditional Chinese architecture. Compared with the formal atmosphere of the Forbidden City, the Summer Palace offers a softer and more elegant side of imperial life. Strolling along Kunming Lake and the Long Corridor is one of the most relaxing experiences in Beijing.
Throughout the day, we travel comfortably by private vehicle, allowing you to focus on the experience while learning more about China’s imperial history and cultural traditions.
Highlights
- Explore the historic center of Beijing
- Visit the world-famous Forbidden City
- Discover imperial history from the Ming and Qing dynasties
- Enjoy the peaceful scenery of the Summer Palace gardens and lakes
Tips
- The Forbidden City involves a lot of walking, so comfortable shoes are essential.
- Beijing’s historical sites are especially beautiful in the morning light, making today great for photography.
- Overnight: Beijing
- Meals: Breakfast
Day 3: Central Beijing → Mutianyu Great Wall → Olympic Park (Optional)
The Experience:
After breakfast, we leave central Beijing and drive toward the legendary Mutianyu Great Wall, one of the best-preserved and most scenic sections of the Great Wall of China.
Surrounded by forested hills and mountain landscapes, Mutianyu offers a more relaxed and comfortable experience compared with busier sections closer to the city.
Once we arrive, you can choose to hike up the Wall or take the cable car for a smoother journey. Walking along the ancient stone pathways and watchtowers, we’ll experience firsthand why the Great Wall remains one of the world’s greatest engineering achievements.
As we explore, we’ll also share stories about ancient border defense, dynastic history, and the role the Wall played in protecting imperial China.
After returning to the city, we can make an optional stop at Beijing Olympic Park to see the famous Bird’s Nest Stadium and Water Cube from the outside. The contrast between the ancient Great Wall and Beijing’s modern Olympic architecture perfectly reflects the city’s blend of tradition and innovation.
Today includes comfortable private transportation throughout the journey, allowing you to enjoy the landscapes beyond the city while experiencing one of China’s most iconic landmarks.
Highlights
- Visit the spectacular Mutianyu section of the Great Wall
- Enjoy mountain scenery and panoramic Wall views
- Learn about ancient Chinese military history and culture
- Optional photo stop at the Beijing Olympic Park
Tips
- The Great Wall includes uneven stone steps, so supportive walking shoes are highly recommended.
- Morning visits usually offer cooler temperatures and clearer mountain views.
- Overnight: Beijing
- Meals: Breakfast
Day 4: Temple of Heaven → Beijing West Railway Station → Xi’an
The Experience:
This morning, we visit the elegant Temple of Heaven, one of the most important spiritual sites in imperial China.
Unlike the grand palaces of previous days, the Temple of Heaven reflects the ancient Chinese belief in harmony between heaven, earth, and humanity. Emperors once came here to pray for good harvests and peace for the empire.
As we walk through the peaceful park and historic prayer halls, you’ll also see local Beijing life unfolding around us. Many residents gather here in the mornings for tai chi, dancing, singing, calligraphy practice, and traditional games, offering a warm glimpse into everyday culture beyond the famous landmarks.
After the visit, we transfer to Beijing West Railway Station and board a high-speed train to Xi’an.
Traveling by bullet train is one of the best ways to experience modern China. The journey is smooth, efficient, and comfortable, while also giving you a chance to watch the changing landscapes between northern and central China.
Upon arrival in Xi’an, we transfer to the hotel and settle into China’s ancient former capital, once the starting point of the Silk Road and home to centuries of dynastic history.
Highlights
- Explore the spiritual and cultural beauty of the Temple of Heaven
- Experience local morning life and traditional Beijing culture
- Travel across China by modern high-speed train
Tips
- Train stations in China are large and operate similarly to airports, so carrying passports and arriving prepared is important.
- Keep snacks and water with you for the high-speed train journey.
- Xi’an cuisine is famous for noodles and Muslim-style flavors, making tonight a great chance to try local specialties.
- Overnight: Xi'an
- Meals: Breakfast
Day 5: Terracotta Warriors → Ancient City Wall → Muslim Quarter
The Experience:
Today, we dive into the rich history and cultural heritage of Xi’an, one of the oldest cities in China and the ancient starting point of the Silk Road.
In the morning, we travel to the world-famous Terracotta Army, one of the greatest archaeological discoveries in history.
Hidden underground for over 2,000 years, these life-sized clay soldiers were created to guard China’s first emperor in the afterlife. As we explore the excavation pits, you’ll notice that every warrior has different facial expressions, hairstyles, and details, reflecting the extraordinary craftsmanship of ancient China.
After returning to the city, we continue to the impressive Xi’an City Wall, one of the best-preserved ancient city walls in China. Walking along the top of the wall offers a unique perspective of Xi’an, where old city streets and modern urban life exist side by side. If you’d like, you can also choose to cycle along the wall for a more interactive experience.
Later, we explore the lively Muslim Quarter, one of Xi’an’s most vibrant cultural neighborhoods. Here, the atmosphere changes completely. Bustling food stalls, local markets, traditional architecture, and the aromas of grilled meat and spices create a fascinating blend of Chinese and Islamic influences shaped by centuries of Silk Road trade.
Throughout the day, we travel comfortably by private vehicle while discovering the deep historical layers that make Xi’an one of China’s most unforgettable cities.
Highlights
- Visit the world-famous Terracotta Warriors
- Discover the legacy of China’s first emperor
- Walk along Xi’an’s ancient City Wall
- Experience local street food and Silk Road culture in the Muslim Quarter
Tips
- The Terracotta Warriors site is large, so comfortable walking shoes are recommended.
- Xi’an is famous for hand-pulled noodles, roujiamo, and local Muslim cuisine. Perfect for adventurous food lovers.
- The Muslim Quarter becomes especially lively in the evening, making it a great place for photography and local snacks.
- Overnight: Xi'an
- Meals: Breakfast
Day 6: Xi’an → Guilin (Flight)
The Experience:
This morning, we leave historic Xi’an and take a domestic flight south to Guilin, one of China’s most beautiful natural destinations.
As the landscapes change from northern plains to dramatic limestone peaks, you’ll begin to see why Guilin is famous throughout China for its poetic scenery and traditional landscapes.
After arriving and checking into the hotel, the rest of the day is intentionally relaxed, allowing you to slow down and enjoy a different side of China after several days of cultural sightseeing.
You can take an easy walk around the city, visit Elephant Trunk Hill, or simply wander along the riverside and admire Guilin’s famous karst mountains rising through the mist.
Compared with the energy of Beijing and Xi’an, Guilin feels calmer, greener, and more peaceful. This region has inspired Chinese painters and poets for centuries, and today we experience that softer rhythm together while enjoying the natural beauty of southern China.
Highlights
- Enter China’s famous karst mountain region
- Relaxed afternoon with flexible exploration time
- Optional visit to Elephant Trunk Hill and riverside areas
Tips
- Guilin’s scenery is especially beautiful near sunset, so riverside walks are highly recommended.
- The climate in southern China is usually warmer and more humid than Xi’an, so light clothing is helpful.
- Tonight is a great opportunity to slow down, enjoy local Guilin cuisine, and experience a quieter atmosphere before tomorrow’s Li River journey.
- Overnight: Guilin
- Meals: Breakfast
Day 7: Guilin Pier → Li River Cruise → Yangshuo
The Experience:
Today is one of the most scenic experiences of this classic China highlights tour as we journey from Guilin to Yangshuo along the breathtaking Li River.
In the morning, we transfer to the Guilin pier and board a relaxing Li River cruise.
As the boat slowly moves through the water, dramatic karst mountains, bamboo groves, fishing villages, and misty riverbanks unfold around us like a traditional Chinese painting. Many of the landscapes seen here appear on classic Chinese artwork and even the 20 RMB banknote, making this one of the country’s most iconic natural scenes.
During the cruise, we can simply slow down and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere while learning more about local river life and the cultural importance of Guilin’s landscapes in Chinese art and poetry. Lunch is usually served onboard as we continue drifting through the heart of southern China’s countryside.
By afternoon, we arrive in charming Yangshuo, a town surrounded by spectacular peaks and rural scenery.
After hotel check-in, you’ll have free time to explore at your own pace. Many travelers enjoy wandering along West Street, visiting local cafés, or simply relaxing beside the river and enjoying the slower rhythm of Yangshuo life.
Highlights
- Enjoy the famous Li River cruise from Guilin to Yangshuo
- Experience China’s iconic karst mountain landscapes
- Discover the scenery featured in traditional Chinese paintings
- Relax in the peaceful countryside atmosphere of Yangshuo
Tips
- Keep your camera or phone ready throughout the cruise as the scenery changes constantly along the river.
- A light jacket can be useful on the boat, especially during cooler seasons or rainy days.
- Yangshuo is much slower-paced than China’s big cities, making tonight perfect for relaxing walks and local cafés.
- Overnight: Yangshuo
- Meals: Breakfast
Day 8: Yangshuo Countryside → Yulong River
The Experience:
Today, we slow down and experience the peaceful rural beauty surrounding Yangshuo.
Compared with the big cities earlier in the journey, this part of southern China offers a completely different atmosphere: quiet villages, rice fields, winding rivers, and dramatic karst mountains stretching across the countryside.
In the morning, we explore the Yangshuo countryside, where everyday local life continues between farms, narrow country paths, and traditional village homes. Depending on your pace and interests, we can explore by private vehicle, bicycle, or gentle countryside walking routes. Along the way, we’ll see bamboo groves, water buffalo fields, and some of the most photographed landscapes in China.
Later, we visit the beautiful Yulong River, often considered the quieter and more peaceful side of the Li River region.
Here, many travelers choose to enjoy a relaxing bamboo raft experience, drifting slowly past limestone peaks, stone bridges, and green countryside scenery. The atmosphere feels calm and timeless, making this one of the most relaxing days of the entire China itinerary.
Today is less about rushing between attractions and more about enjoying the rhythm of the landscape, local culture, and the natural beauty that has inspired Chinese artists for generations.
Highlights
- Explore the peaceful Yangshuo countryside
- Experience rural life and scenic karst landscapes
- Relax beside the beautiful Yulong River
- Optional bamboo rafting through southern China’s countryside
Tips
- Comfortable clothing and sun protection are recommended for countryside activities.
- Yangshuo is ideal for slow travel, so don’t hesitate to pause, enjoy the scenery, and take your time.
- Early morning and late afternoon usually offer the softest light for photography around the Yulong River.
- Overnight: Yangshuo
- Meals: Breakfast
Day 9: Yangshuo → Guilin Airport → Shanghai → The Bund
The Experience:
This morning, we leave the peaceful countryside of Yangshuo and transfer to Guilin Liangjiang International Airport for our flight to Shanghai, China’s most modern and international metropolis.
As we arrive in Shanghai, the atmosphere changes dramatically once again. After days surrounded by ancient history and natural landscapes, we now step into a fast-paced city known for its futuristic skyline, colonial-era architecture, luxury shopping streets, and vibrant urban culture.
In the evening, we visit the famous The Bund, one of the most iconic waterfronts in Asia. Walking along the riverside promenade, you’ll see the striking contrast between Shanghai’s historic European-style buildings and the futuristic skyscrapers of Pudong across the river. As the city lights begin to illuminate the skyline, this becomes one of the most unforgettable night views in China.
Tonight is a wonderful moment to reflect on the journey so far, from imperial capitals and ancient warriors to peaceful rivers and now the dazzling energy of modern Shanghai.
Highlights
- Experience the dramatic contrast between rural China and futuristic city life
- Evening walk along the iconic Bund waterfront
- Stunning skyline views of Shanghai at night
Tips
- Shanghai evenings can feel humid, especially near the river, so light layers are helpful.
- The Bund is especially beautiful after sunset when the skyline lights turn on.
- If you still have energy tonight, nearby streets offer excellent cafés, rooftop bars, and local Shanghai cuisine to explore.
- Overnight: Shanghai
- Meals: Breakfast
Day 10: French Concession → Yu Garden
The Experience:
Today, we explore two very different sides of Shanghai, from elegant tree-lined streets to traditional Chinese gardens hidden within the old city.
In the morning, we begin in the historic Former French Concession, one of Shanghai’s most charming and atmospheric neighborhoods. As we walk through quiet avenues lined with plane trees, historic villas, cafés, boutiques, and art spaces, you’ll experience a softer and more local side of the city. This district reflects Shanghai’s unique blend of Chinese culture and international influence, shaped during the colonial era.
Along the way, we can pause for coffee, explore local shops, or simply enjoy the relaxed pace while learning how Shanghai developed into China’s most cosmopolitan city.
Later, we continue to the famous Yu Garden, a beautifully designed classical Chinese garden dating back to the Ming Dynasty. Compared with Shanghai’s modern skyline, Yu Garden offers a peaceful glimpse into traditional Chinese aesthetics, with elegant pavilions, koi ponds, stone pathways, and carefully arranged landscapes designed to create harmony and balance.
The surrounding old-town area is also lively and full of local snacks, traditional architecture, and cultural atmosphere, making it a wonderful place to experience both historic and modern Shanghai in a single day.
Highlights
- Explore the charming streets of the French Concession
- Discover Shanghai’s blend of Chinese and European influences
- Visit the historic Yu Garden and the traditional old town
- Experience both the modern and classical sides of Shanghai
Tips
- Shanghai is a very walkable city, so comfortable shoes are ideal for today.
- The French Concession is perfect for cafés, photography, and slow exploration.
- Yu Garden can become busier later in the day, so earlier visits are usually more comfortable for sightseeing and photos.
- Overnight: Shanghai
- Meals: Breakfast
Day 11: Shanghai → Departure
The Experience:
As your 11-day China highlights tour comes to an end, enjoy a relaxed final morning in Shanghai before your departure.
Depending on your flight time, you may have a little free time for a last walk through the city, some souvenir shopping, or a quiet coffee while taking in Shanghai’s unique atmosphere one final time.
At the arranged time, we will transfer you comfortably to either Shanghai Pudong International Airport or Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport for your onward flight.
Over the past 11 days, we’ve journeyed together through imperial capitals, ancient history, breathtaking river landscapes, peaceful countryside, and futuristic skylines, experiencing the many contrasts that make China such an unforgettable destination for first-time travelers.
We hope this journey leaves you with not only beautiful photos but also meaningful memories, cultural connections, and a deeper understanding of China’s history, landscapes, and everyday life.
- Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation
- Beijing: 3 Nights
- Xi'an: 2 Nights
- Guilin: 1 Night
- Yangshuo: 2 Nights
- Shanghai: 2 Nights
We carefully select comfortable 4-star and 5-star hotels across China to make your journey smooth, relaxing, and memorable.
During this classic China highlights tour, we stay in convenient locations in Beijing, Xi’an, Guilin, and Shanghai, close to major attractions, local restaurants, and cultural landmarks. In Yangshuo, we slow down and enjoy a more peaceful stay surrounded by China’s famous karst landscapes.
Hotel styles and room categories can also be customized to match your travel preferences, whether you prefer boutique stays, luxury hotels, family-friendly rooms, or a more local experience.
Cost
Included
- High-speed train tickets (Beijing – Xi'an, 2nd class).
- Domestic flights (Xi’an → Guilin, Yangshuo / Guilin → Shanghai, economy class).
- Li River cruise (standard cabin).
- Private vehicle airport and railway station pickup and drop off.
- Private air-conditioned vehicle for all local transfers.
- Expert English-speaking local guide.
- Entrance fees to all listed attractions.
- Impression Liu Sanjie evening show (standard seating).
- Cycling or bamboo rafting experience in Yangshuo (one activity)
- 10 nights of hand-picked accommodation with breakfast.
Excluded
- International or domestic flights to Beijing.
- Lunches and dinners (freedom to explore local tastes).
- China visa fees.
- Optional activities and personal expenses.
- Travel insurance.
- Gratuities for guide and driver.
Transportation
This route combines domestic flights, high-speed rail, river cruise, and private transfers for a comfortable and efficient journey between destinations.
- Beijing to Xi'an (High-Speed Rail)
- Xi'an to Guilin (Domestic Flight)
- Guilin to Yangshuo (River Cruise)
- Guilin/Yangshuo to Shanghai (Domestic Flight)
- Metro (Subway): Beijing, Xi'an, and Shanghai have world-class subway systems
- Ride-Hailing (Didi): The Chinese equivalent of Uber
- Walking & Biking: Yangshuo is best explored by rented bicycle or e-scooter
Essential Tips
- This journey covers several regions of China, so weather and local culture can vary greatly. Comfortable layered clothing is recommended.
- You’ll walk quite a bit at places like the Forbidden City, Mutianyu Great Wall, and Terracotta Army, so good walking shoes are important.
- High-speed trains and domestic flights are smooth and efficient, but stations and airports can be busy. Keep your passport and essentials easy to access.
- Guilin and Yangshuo are usually warmer and more humid, so light clothing and a small umbrella can be useful.
- Local food changes from city to city, making this route a great way to experience different regional flavors across China.
Gallery
FAQ
Is this route suitable for first-time visitors to China?
Yes. This itinerary is designed especially for first-time travelers, combining China’s most iconic sights with comfortable pacing, private transfers, and clear cultural context along the way.
How physically demanding is this trip?
The route involves moderate walking, especially in the Forbidden City, the Great Wall, and Yangshuo. Most days are manageable for travelers with average fitness. Cycling and bamboo rafting in Yangshuo are optional.
What is the best time of year to take this route?
Spring (April–June) and autumn (September–October) offer the most comfortable weather and clear scenery. Summer is warmer and more humid, while winter is colder but less crowded in northern cities.
What kind of accommodation is included?
The route includes carefully selected, comfortable hotels in central or scenic locations. Options can be upgraded to boutique or luxury properties on request.
Is this trip suitable for families or older travelers?
Yes. The itinerary is flexible and can be adjusted for families or seniors, with options to reduce walking, add rest time, or upgrade transportation and hotels.
What should I pack for this journey?
Comfortable walking shoes are essential. Pack layered clothing, a light rain jacket, sunscreen, and a portable power bank. In Guilin and Yangshuo, breathable fabrics are recommended due to humidity.
Are meals included?
Daily breakfast is included. Other meals are left flexible so you can explore local cuisine independently or with guide recommendations.
Can this route be customized?
Comfortable walking shoes, layered clothing, and a light jacket even in summer. Temperatures vary between valleys.
