Overview
This 15 day classic China tour with Yangtze River cruise brings together China’s most iconic experiences in one journey.
Start in imperial Beijing, where ancient palaces and the Great Wall reveal China’s rich history. Then travel to Xi’an to see the world-famous Terracotta Warriors. Continue south to Guilin and Yangshuo, known for their peaceful rivers and dramatic karst mountains. After that, head to vibrant Chongqing and board your Yangtze River cruise through the spectacular Three Gorges to Yichang. Finally, end your journey in modern Shanghai, where historic streets and futuristic skylines come together.
This route is perfect for first-time visitors who want to experience China’s history, landscapes, culture, and modern cities at a comfortable pace.
Highlights
- Walk across the legendary Great Wall and explore the imperial grandeur of Beijing
- Stand face-to-face with the world-famous Terracotta Warriors in Xi’an
- Explore peaceful countryside, rice fields, and traditional villages around Yangshuo
- Experience Chongqing’s dramatic mountain city scenery and vibrant river culture
- Sail through the spectacular Three Gorges on a multi-day Yangtze River cruise
- Discover both ancient traditions and futuristic skylines in Shanghai
Itinerary
Day 1: Beijing Airport → Hotel
The Experience:
Welcome to China!
Upon arrival in Beijing, your local driver will meet you at the airport and transfer you to your hotel in the city center.
Today is mainly for rest and adjusting after your international flight.
Depending on your arrival time, you can enjoy a relaxed walk nearby, explore local streets, or try your first authentic Beijing meal.
Beijing is a fascinating mix of imperial history and modern city life, and this is just the beginning of your China journey.
Highlights
- Private airport pickup
- First impressions of Beijing
Tips
- Try to stay awake until evening to reduce jet lag
- Beijing cuisine is famous for roast duck and traditional noodles
- Overnight: Beijing
Day 2: Beijing | Temple of Heaven → Forbidden City → Jingshan Hill
The Experience:
Today, you’ll explore some of Beijing’s most iconic imperial landmarks while experiencing both the grand history and daily life of the city.
Start the morning at the Temple of Heaven, where emperors of the Ming and Qing Dynasties once prayed for good harvests.
The surrounding park is full of local life. You may see residents practicing tai chi, dancing, playing cards, or singing together. It’s a wonderful place to experience Beijing beyond the tourist sites.
Next, continue to the magnificent Forbidden City, the largest imperial palace complex in China. For over 500 years, this vast palace was home to emperors and royal families.
As you walk through the grand courtyards, ceremonial halls, and red palace walls, your guide will share stories about imperial life, ancient traditions, and the rise and fall of dynasties.
After leaving the palace, walk up Jingshan Hill, located directly behind the Forbidden City.
From the top, you’ll enjoy one of the best panoramic views in Beijing, overlooking the golden rooftops of the Forbidden City stretching across the city center.
Highlights
- Temple of Heaven
- Forbidden City
- Panoramic view from Jingshan Hill
Tips
- Jingshan Hill involves a short uphill walk with stairs
- Visit the Temple of Heaven earlier in the morning for the liveliest local atmosphere
- Overnight: Beijing
- Meals: Breakfast
Day 3: Beijing | The Great Wall at Mutianyu
The Experience:
Today, you’ll visit the legendary Great Wall of China at the Mutianyu section, one of the most scenic and well-preserved parts of the Wall near Beijing.
After breakfast, drive north into the mountains surrounding the city.
Compared with some busier sections, Mutianyu offers a more relaxed atmosphere and beautiful mountain views in every direction.
Once you arrive, take the shuttle and cable car up to the Wall. From there, you’ll have time to walk along the ancient stone pathways, pass traditional watchtowers, and admire the Wall stretching across the mountain ridges like a giant dragon.
Your guide will share stories about the Wall’s military history, construction, and importance in ancient China. Whether you walk a short section or explore farther along the ridges, standing on the Great Wall is truly one of the most unforgettable experiences in China.
After returning to Beijing, enjoy a relaxed evening in the city.
Highlights
- Mutianyu Great Wall
- Mountain scenery
- Ancient watchtowers
Tips
- Wear comfortable walking shoes with good grip
- The weather in the mountains can feel cooler and windier than central Beijing
- The cable car helps reduce climbing and makes the visit more comfortable
- Overnight: Beijing
- Meals: Breakfast
Day 4: Beijing → Xi’an by High-Speed Train
The Experience:
After breakfast, your driver will transfer you to the railway station for your high-speed train journey to Xi’an.
China’s high-speed rail network is modern, efficient, and one of the most comfortable ways to travel across the country.
As the scenery changes outside the window, you’ll gradually leave northern China behind and arrive in one of the country’s oldest imperial capitals.
Upon arrival in Xi’an, your guide and driver will meet you at the station and transfer you to the city center. Compared with Beijing’s grand imperial atmosphere, Xi’an feels older, more traditional, and deeply connected to ancient Chinese history.
If time and energy allow, you can enjoy an optional walk or cycling experience on Xi’an’s Ancient City Wall, one of the best-preserved city walls in China. From the top, you’ll see an interesting contrast between the old city below and the modern skyline beyond the walls.
In the evening, you may also explore nearby local streets or try famous Xi’an specialties such as hand-pulled noodles and roujiamo.
Tips
- Keep your passport easily accessible for train boarding
- Sunset is one of the best times to visit the Ancient City Wall
Cycling on the wall is optional and easy for most travelers
- Overnight: Xi'an
- Meals: Breakfast
Day 5: Xi’an | Terracotta Army → Muslim Quarter
The Experience:
Today, you’ll discover two very different sides of Xi’an: the grandeur of ancient imperial China and the lively atmosphere of its historic Muslim Quarter.
In the morning, drive to the world-famous Terracotta Army, one of the greatest archaeological discoveries in history.
Built more than 2,000 years ago for China’s first emperor, thousands of life-sized soldiers, horses, and chariots were buried underground to protect him in the afterlife.
As you walk through the excavation halls, you’ll notice that each warrior has unique facial features and expressions. Your guide will also share the fascinating story of how local farmers accidentally discovered the site in 1974.
After returning to the city, continue to the lively Muslim Quarter, one of Xi’an’s most vibrant neighborhoods. Narrow streets are filled with food stalls, local snacks, markets, and the aroma of freshly grilled skewers and baked bread.
This area reflects Xi’an’s long history as the starting point of the ancient Silk Road, where different cultures and communities once met.
Highlights
- Terracotta Army
- Ancient imperial history
- Xi’an Muslim Quarter
Tips
- The Terracotta Army site is large, so comfortable walking shoes are recommended
- The Muslim Quarter is a great place to try local Xi’an snacks and street food
- Late afternoon and evening are especially lively in the Muslim Quarter
- Overnight: Xi'an
- Meals: Breakfast
Day 6: Xi’an → Guilin by Flight
The Experience:
Today, you’ll travel from the ancient heart of northern China to the beautiful landscapes of southern China.
After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your flight to Guilin.
As you arrive, the scenery changes dramatically. The dry northern plains give way to green rivers, misty hills, and the famous karst mountains that make Guilin one of China’s most scenic destinations.
After checking into your hotel, enjoy a slower and more relaxed atmosphere compared with the busy historical cities you visited earlier.
Depending on your arrival time, you can take an evening walk along the riverside, visit local night markets, or simply relax and enjoy the peaceful scenery.
Guilin is often described as one of the most beautiful places in China, and the next few days will show you why.
Highlights
- Flight to southern China, Guilin karst landscapes
- Relaxed riverside atmosphere
Tips
- Guilin is usually warmer and more humid than Xi’an
- Riverside walks are especially pleasant in the evening
- Local Guilin rice noodles are a must-try specialty
- Overnight: Guilin
- Meals: Breakfast
Day 7: Guilin → Li River Cruise → Yangshuo
The Experience:
Today is one of the scenic highlights of your China journey.
In the morning, transfer to the pier and board your Li River cruise from Guilin to Yangshuo.
As the boat slowly moves through the river valleys, you’ll pass some of China’s most famous landscapes. Towering karst mountains rise dramatically from the water, while bamboo groves, fishing villages, and rice fields create a peaceful countryside atmosphere along the riverbanks.
This stretch of the Li River is often considered one of the most beautiful natural landscapes in China. The scenery changes constantly throughout the journey, making the cruise relaxing, photogenic, and unforgettable.
After arriving in Yangshuo, about 4-5 hours, continue exploring this charming town surrounded by limestone peaks and rural scenery. Compared with Guilin, Yangshuo feels smaller, slower, and more connected with nature.
In the evening, you can stroll along West Street, relax at a riverside café, or simply enjoy the calm atmosphere of the countryside.
Highlights
- Li River cruise
- Karst mountain scenery
Tips
- Sit on the upper deck for the best river views
- Bring a light jacket during cooler seasons
- Yangshuo is ideal for relaxed evening walks and cafés
- Overnight: Yangshuo
- Meals: Breakfast
Day 8: Yangshuo | Bike Riding Experience → Xingping Village → Chinese Cooking Class
The Experience:
Today, you’ll slow down and experience the peaceful countryside life that makes Yangshuo so special.
In the morning, explore the rural areas surrounding Yangshuo along quiet country roads. As you walk or cycle through the countryside, you’ll pass rice fields, limestone peaks, small villages, fruit farms, and local homes. Compared with China’s big cities, life here moves at a much gentler pace.
Continue to Xingping Village, one of the oldest and most scenic towns along the Li River. The area is famous for its classic karst mountain views, including the landscape printed on the back of the Chinese 20 RMB note. Walking through the old streets, you’ll see traditional buildings, riverside scenery, and daily local life.
Later, enjoy a hands-on Chinese cooking class. Together with a local chef, you’ll learn how to prepare several traditional dishes using fresh local ingredients. From chopping vegetables to stir-frying in a wok, this is a fun and interactive way to experience Chinese food culture beyond simply tasting it.
Highlights
- Yangshuo countryside
- Xingping Village
- Chinese cooking class
Tips
- Casual and comfortable clothing is best for today
- The countryside is especially beautiful in the early morning and late afternoon
- Overnight: Yangshuo
- Meals: Breakfast
Day 9: Yangshuo → Longji Rice Terraces
The Experience:
Today, leave the karst landscapes of Yangshuo behind and journey deeper into the mountains of Guangxi to visit the spectacular Longji Rice Terraces.
After breakfast, travel north through rural villages and mountain scenery. As the roads gradually climb higher, the landscape changes into layered rice terraces stretching across the hillsides.
Built by local ethnic minority communities over hundreds of years, the Longji Terraces are not only beautiful but also an important part of local daily life and farming traditions.
Upon arrival, take an easy walk through the terrace villages and scenic viewpoints.
Depending on the season, the terraces may appear bright green, golden, reflective with water, or covered in soft mountain mist. Along the way, you’ll also experience the culture and architecture of the local Zhuang and Yao minority communities.
Compared with the peaceful riverside scenery of Yangshuo, Longji offers a more remote and mountainous atmosphere.
Highlights
- Longji Rice Terraces
- Mountain scenery
- Ethnic minority villages
Tips
- Some walking on stone paths and uphill sections is required
- Spring and autumn are especially scenic seasons for the terraces
- The mountain air can feel cooler in the evening
- Overnight: Longji
- Meals: Breakfast
Day 10: Longji → Guilin Airport → Chongqing by Flight → Board Yangtze River Cruise
The Experience:
Today is a transfer day as you travel from the peaceful mountain villages of Longji to the vibrant city of Chongqing.
After breakfast, leave the rice terraces behind and drive back toward Guilin Airport. Along the way, enjoy the changing scenery as the mountain landscapes gradually give way to rivers, towns, and modern city views.
Then, take your flight to Chongqing, one of China’s most dramatic and energetic cities.
Built across steep hills where the Yangtze and Jialing Rivers meet, Chongqing is famous for its layered skyline, mountain roads, spicy hotpot, and lively atmosphere.
Upon arrival, your guide and driver will transfer you directly to the cruise terminal to board your Yangtze River cruise ship.
After checking into your cabin, you’ll have time to settle in and enjoy your first evening on the river.
As the ship slowly departs Chongqing, the glowing city skyline gradually fades into the distance, marking the beginning of your Three Gorges cruise journey.
Highlights
- Arrival in Chongqing
- Yangtze River cruise embarkation
Tips
- Chongqing evenings can be humid, especially in summer
- River views are especially beautiful after dark
- Overnight: Ship
- Meals: Breakfast
Day 11: Yangtze River Cruise | Fengdu
The Experience:
Today, you’ll begin your journey along the legendary Yangtze River while enjoying the relaxing atmosphere onboard the cruise ship.
As the ship sails through the broad river valleys surrounding Chongqing, you can spend time on the observation deck, enjoy onboard activities, or simply relax and watch the scenery slowly change outside.
During the day, stop at Fengdu, often known as the “Ghost City.” Located on the hillside above the Yangtze River, Fengdu is famous for its ancient temples, traditional architecture, and fascinating legends connected with Chinese mythology and the afterlife. As you explore the complex, your guide will introduce stories and beliefs that have shaped local culture for centuries.
Compared with China’s busy cities, life along the Yangtze feels much slower and calmer. The cruise offers a completely different side of China, focused on landscapes, river culture, and relaxation.
Highlights
- Yangtze River scenery
- Fengdu Ghost City
- Relaxing cruise atmosphere
Tips
- Wear comfortable walking shoes for the uphill paths at Fengdu
- Upper decks are great for panoramic river views
Evenings on the river are peaceful and relaxing
- Overnight: Ship
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 12: Yangtze River Cruise | Qutang Gorge → Wu Gorge → Shennv Stream
The Experience:
Today is the scenic highlight of your Yangtze River cruise.
In the morning, the ship enters Qutang Gorge, the shortest but most dramatic of the Three Gorges. Steep cliffs rise sharply on both sides of the river, creating a narrow and powerful landscape that has inspired Chinese poets and painters for centuries.
As the cruise continues, you’ll sail into the beautiful Wu Gorge, known for its misty mountains, deep valleys, and softer, more elegant scenery. The peaks here often appear partially hidden in clouds, giving the area a peaceful and almost dreamlike atmosphere.
Later, transfer to a smaller boat for an excursion into Shennv Stream. Compared with the wide Yangtze River, this narrow tributary feels quiet and untouched. As you travel deeper into the gorge, you’ll pass steep green cliffs, small waterfalls, hanging wooden walkways, and remote riverside scenery that cannot be reached by larger ships.
Throughout the day, the scenery constantly changes, making this one of the most unforgettable experiences of the entire journey.
Highlights
- Qutang Gorge
- Wu Gorge
- Shennv Stream excursion
Tips
- Keep your camera ready. Today offers some of the best scenery of the cruise
- Early mornings are often misty and especially beautiful
- A light jacket can be useful on the outdoor decks and smaller excursion boats
- Overnight: Ship
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 13: Three Gorges Dam → Disembark → Yichang → Shanghai by Flight
The Experience:
This morning, your Yangtze River cruise gradually comes to an end as the ship approaches the Three Gorges Dam area near Yichang.
Before disembarkation, visit the famous Three Gorges Dam, the world’s largest hydroelectric project. From the viewing areas, you’ll see the enormous scale of the dam stretching across the Yangtze River while learning about its impact on transportation, flood control, and daily life along the river.
After the visit, continue to Yichang for your onward journey to Shanghai by flight.
Compared with the peaceful river landscapes of the past few days, Shanghai feels fast-paced, modern, and international. Upon arrival, your guide and driver will transfer you to your hotel in the city center.
In the evening, you can enjoy a relaxed walk along The Bund and admire Shanghai’s famous skyline lighting up across the Huangpu River.
Highlights
- Three Gorges Dam
- Yangtze River finale
Tips
- Keep your passport easily accessible during transfers
- Shanghai evenings are ideal for riverside walks and skyline views
- The weather in Shanghai may feel more humid than inland China
- Overnight: Shanghai
- Meals: Breakfast
Day 14: Shanghai | Jade Buddha Temple → Yu Garden → French Concession
The Experience:
Today, you’ll explore different sides of Shanghai, where traditional culture, colonial history, and modern city life all come together.
Start the morning at the peaceful Jade Buddha Temple, one of Shanghai’s most famous Buddhist temples. Inside, you’ll see beautiful halls filled with incense, chanting, and local worshippers, creating a calm atmosphere in the middle of the busy city. The temple is especially known for its elegant white jade Buddha statues brought from Myanmar.
Next, continue to Yu Garden, a classic Chinese garden dating back to the Ming Dynasty. As you walk through its winding pathways, ponds, pavilions, and rock gardens, you’ll experience a quieter and more traditional side of Shanghai. Outside the garden, the surrounding old streets are filled with local snacks, tea houses, and traditional-style architecture.
Later, explore the charming French Concession area. Compared with the historic gardens and temples earlier in the day, this neighborhood feels stylish, relaxed, and international. Tree-lined streets, historic villas, cafés, boutiques, and small local shops make it one of the most pleasant areas for walking in Shanghai.
Highlights
- Jade Buddha Temple
- Yu Garden
- French Concession
Tips
- Mornings are usually quieter at Yu Garden
- Wear comfortable shoes for today’s city walking
- The French Concession is perfect for cafés, photography, and relaxed exploration
- Overnight: Shanghai
- Meals: Breakfast
Day 15: Shanghai → Departure
The Experience:
After breakfast, enjoy some free time depending on your flight schedule before your private transfer to the airport.
As your journey comes to an end, you’ll leave China with unforgettable memories of imperial palaces, ancient history, peaceful countryside, dramatic river landscapes, and vibrant modern cities. From the Great Wall and Terracotta Warriors to the Li River and Yangtze cruise, this route offers a rich and balanced introduction to China’s culture, scenery, and daily life.
Your driver will assist with the airport transfer, ensuring a smooth and comfortable departure experience.
Tips
- Shanghai airports are large, so allow extra check-in time
- If time allows, enjoy one last riverside walk or local coffee before departure
- Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation
- Beijing: 3 Nights
- Xi'an: 2 Nights
- Guilin: 1 Night
- Yangshuo: 2 Nights
- Longji: 1 Night
- Ship: 3 Nights
- Shanghai: 2 Nights
We carefully select accommodations for comfort, location, and overall travel experience. On this 15 day China tour, you will stay in a mix of quality city hotels and a comfortable Yangtze River cruise ship. We focus on clean, well-rated stays with convenient access to major attractions, local dining, and transportation.
Every QuietRoutes journey is fully tailor-made to match your travel style and budget. We can arrange everything from luxury international hotels and boutique stays to family-friendly rooms, premium Yangtze cruise suites, and scenic river-view accommodations. Whether you prefer modern comfort, local character, or a more relaxed travel pace, we customize the stays around your needs.
Cost
Included
- High-speed train tickets (Beijing – Xi'an)
- Flight tickets (Xi'an - Guilin, Guilin - Chongqing, Yichang - Shanghai)
- Li River cruise (Guilin - Yangshuo)
- 11 nights of hand-picked accommodation on land with breakfast
- 4D3N Yangtze River cruise with accommodation and meals
- Private air-conditioned vehicle for all local transfers
- Expert English-speaking local guide
- All entrance fees to the listed attractions in the ititnerary
Excluded
- International or domestic flights to Beijing
- Meals not listed
- Personal expenses and optional activities
- Travel insurance
- Gratuities for guide and driver
Transportation
This route combines high-speed rail, flights, river cruise, and private transfers for a comfortable and efficient journey between destinations.
- High-speed train: Beijing → Xi’an
- Domestic flights: Xi’an → Guilin, Guilin → Chongqing, Yichang → Shanghai
- Yangtze River cruise
- Private transfer
Essential Tips
- The Yangtze River cruise experience varies slightly by water levels and season.
- Comfortable walking shoes are highly recommended.
- Some destinations involve stairs, slopes, or extended walking.
Gallery
FAQ
When is the best time of year for this itinerary?
Spring (April–May) and Autumn (September–October) are the “Golden Seasons.” The weather is mild, and the scenery in Guilin is lush.
How physically demanding is this trip?
This is a “Moderate” activity trip. You will need to be comfortable walking 5–8 miles a day, climbing steep stone stairs at the Great Wall, and boarding/disembarking river vessels.
What is the tipping culture?
Tipping is not traditional in China and is generally not expected in local restaurants or taxis. However, for organized tours, it is customary to tip your private guide and driver at the end of their service as a gesture of appreciation.
Is this suitable for first-time visitors to China?
Yes, this route covers China’s most iconic regions at a steady, manageable pace.
Can this route be customized?
Absolutely. Cruise level, city nights, and activity pace can all be adjusted.
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