Trace Dynasties, Meet Pandas, Wander Beside Erhai Lake and Marvel at Jade Dragon Snow Mountain on a 17-Day China Tour.
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Stand Where Emperors Ruled in Beijing
Cross Tiananmen Square and step inside the Forbidden City throne halls, where your guide unpacks five centuries of Ming and Qing court life behind every red gate.
Face the Terracotta Army in Xi'an
Walk the three pits at Emperor Qin mausoleum as your guide explains each battle line, then climb Xi'an Ming City Wall and graze the lantern-lit Muslim Quarter.
Share a Morning with Giant Pandas
Watch pandas feed at their liveliest hour in Chengdu, sip gaiwan tea in People Park, then meet the 71-meter Leshan Giant Buddha carved where three rivers meet.
Wander Old Towns Beneath Jade Dragon
Cycle the shore of Erhai, ride a ropeway up Cangshan, stand before the Three Pagodas, and trace Naxi lanes and snow peaks around Lijiang and Baisha.
This China 17-Day Tour takes you from Beijing to Shanghai, combining China's northern cities with the laid-back charm of Yunnan. We start in Beijing among palace squares and hutong snacks, take high-speed trains to Xi'an for the terracotta warriors, meet pandas in Chengdu, then fly to Kunming for Dali and Lijiang old towns beneath Jade Dragon Snow Mountain. A private guide, cars, trains and flights link each city, and the trip ends with two days in Shanghai. Paced for first-time visitors, with room to change plans.
Duration
17 days
Tour Type
Tailor-made Travel
Theme
Tailor-made Tour
Group Size
Only Your Group
Start City
Beijing
Activity Level
MODERATE
Route Map
Map pins show the primary places guests will visit on this route.
Welcome to Beijing! Your professional guide will greet you at the airport with a “Your Way Holiday” sign. During the private transfer to your hotel, your guide will introduce Beijing's history, culture and local highlights, sharing useful travel tips and insights into daily life in the capital. An experienced driver ensures a comfortable journey in a private vehicle. Upon arrival, your guide will assist with hotel check-in. Take the rest of the day to relax after your flight or enjoy a short stroll around the neighborhood, getting your first feel for the city before your sightseeing begins.
Today's Highlights
Begin at Tiananmen Square, the vast 44-hectare plaza framed by the Great Hall of the People and the National Museum of China. Walk north through Tiananmen Gate and Duanmen Gate to the Forbidden City, once home to 24 emperors of the Ming and Qing dynasties. Explore its red walls, golden roofs, grand halls and quiet courtyards as your guide shares stories of royal ceremonies and palace life. In the afternoon, wander through Beijing's historic hutongs, where gray-brick courtyard homes and neighborhood shops reveal traditional local life. Finish at Huguosi Snack Street, sampling classic Beijing flavors, from savory bean juice and crispy fried cakes to sweet candied hawthorn.
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Optional Excursions
Hutong Rickshaw Ride
Take a traditional rickshaw ride through Beijing’s hutongs. Relax as you travel along narrow alleys, admire courtyard homes, and experience the history, culture, and authentic charm of old Beijing’s traditional neighborhoods.
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Hutong Home Visiting Experience
Discover the charm of Beijing’s Hutongs through a local home visit. Stroll through historic alleys, meet local residents, and gain insight into traditional lifestyles, daily routines, and cultural heritage for an authentic Beijing experience.
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Hanfu Portraits: Step Into China’s Imperial Elegance
Dress in traditional Hanfu and have your portrait taken against Beijing's historic settings. Professional styling and photography are included, so you come away with a set of Hanfu photos rather than a quick snapshot.
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Tea Ceremony Experience at Lao She Teahouse (paid on-site)
Enjoy a traditional tea experience at the historic Lao She Teahouse in Beijing. Relax in an authentic cultural setting, taste classic Chinese tea, and experience the charm of traditional teahouse culture. Our guide can help arrange the reservation, with the tea cost paid on-site.
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In the morning, walk the walled park of the Temple of Heaven, where Ming emperors prayed for harvest. Your guide brings the Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests to life, explaining its distinctive circular design, richly decorated ceiling and intricate wooden structure. After lunch, drive about 1.5 hours to Mutianyu, a well-preserved Ming-era wall stretching along a forested ridge. Take the cable car up, walk along the wall between its watchtowers, and let your guide point out the crenellations, beacon towers and how the wall was built. Descend by cable car, or on a controlled toboggan if you feel adventurous.
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Optional Excursions
Tai Chi at Temple of Heaven
Experience the ancient art of Tai Chi at Beijing’s iconic Temple of Heaven. Practice gentle movements with a professional instructor while enjoying the peaceful gardens and historic surroundings. Discover balance, relaxation, and traditional Chinese wellness in a unique cultural setting.
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Mutianyu Cable Car & Toboggan Upgrade
Upgrade your Mutianyu Great Wall experience with a cable car ride up and a toboggan slide descent. Reach the Great Wall comfortably, enjoy panoramic mountain views along the way, and end your visit with an exciting ride down the hillside.
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Mutianyu VIP Experience
A premium way to see the Mutianyu Great Wall: priority access, a private shuttle, and a round-trip cable car over the mountains, followed by a complimentary tea break after you've walked the Wall.
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Begin at the Summer Palace, the lake retreat of the Qing empress dowagers, where your guide walks you along the 700-meter painted corridor, past the Marble Boat and up to the Tower of Buddhist Incense over Kunming Lake. Next, visit Yonghe Temple, a former imperial residence turned the largest Tibetan Buddhist monastery outside Tibet, famous for its 18-meter sandalwood Maitreya Buddha. After a local lunch, transfer to Beijing West station for a high-speed train to Xi'an, a journey of about 4.5 to 6 hours with your guide handling tickets and seating. On arrival, check in and, if time allows, take a short walk along the illuminated Xi'an City Wall.
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Optional Excursions
Morning Moves with Beijing’s Neighborhood Locals
As the old city wakes up, Gulou Cultural Square becomes a neighborhood gathering spot for morning dancers, tai chi enthusiasts, and longtime residents. Step into their daily routine, try a few dance steps, or join a gentle group exercise session. No experience needed—just a little curiosity and a willingness to start your Beijing morning like a local.
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Chinese Opera Face Painting Workshop
Discover the art of Chinese opera masks through a hands-on face painting workshop. Learn traditional “Gou Lian” techniques, explore the meanings behind different colors and patterns, and create your own unique opera mask to take home.
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Drive out to the Terracotta Army at Emperor Qin Shi Huang mausoleum, where three pits hold thousands of life-size clay soldiers, horses and a bronze chariot; your guide walks Pit 1 battle line, Pit 2 mixed formations and Pit 3 command pit so you understand how the army was arrayed. Back in the city, walk or ride atop the Ming City Wall, a 14-kilometer brick rampart encircling the old town. In the evening, wander the Beiyuanmen Muslim Quarter for hand-pulled biangbiang noodles and cumin lamb while your guide helps you order, then visit the Gaojia Courtyard, a restored merchant home showing everyday Ming and Qing life inside the lanes.
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Optional Excursions
“The Code of the Empire – Qin Shi Huang’s Mausoleum” XR Experience
Step into the Qin Dynasty with an XR experience recreating the Terracotta Warriors and Qin Shi Huang's mausoleum. Interactive technology walks you through the ancient army and the story of China's first emperor.
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Create Your Own Terracotta Warrior: DIY Workshop
Create your own Terracotta Warrior in this fun 30-minute hands-on workshop inspired by the Qin Dynasty’s ancient craftsmanship. Perfect for all ages, this activity offers a unique cultural experience and memorable souvenir.
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Qin Terracotta Warriors Village Visit
Step beyond the museum to explore a local village near the Terracotta Warriors, where you can discover traditional village life, local craftsmanship, and the living culture surrounding this world-famous archaeological site.
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Xi'an City Wall Bike Ride
If you find yourself with some extra time, a bike ride along the Ancient City Wall is an exhilarating way to enhance your Xi'an experience. This activity allows you to pedal around one of the best-preserved city walls in China, offering a unique and active exploration of its expansive ramparts.
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Start at the Xi'an Museum, set in a small temple courtyard, whose galleries trace the city from Zhou bronze to Tang gold and explain the artifacts you saw yesterday at the warrior pits. Then walk to the Giant Wild Goose Pagoda, a seven-story brick tower built in 652 AD to hold sutras the monk Xuanzang brought from India; your guide retells that pilgrimage, later the basis for the Journey to the West novel. After lunch, transfer to Xi'an North station for a high-speed train to Chengdu, about 3 to 3.5 hours through the Qinling mountains. Check in and rest; the panda capital keeps tomorrow for the slow mornings.
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Optional Excursions
Xiaonanmen Morning Market Experience
Experience the authentic morning life of Xi’an at Xiaonanmen Morning Market, where locals gather for fresh produce, traditional snacks, and regional specialties. Stroll through the lively streets, taste local flavors, and discover the everyday culture of the city beyond its famous landmarks.
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Xi’an Shadow Puppet Performance Experience
Discover the charm of Xi’an’s traditional shadow puppetry through a captivating live performance. Enjoy the delicate craftsmanship, expressive movements, and storytelling art behind this ancient folk tradition.
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Xi’an Calligraphy Experience
Experience the elegance of Chinese calligraphy with guidance from a local instructor. Learn basic brush techniques and write your own characters while appreciating the artistry and philosophy behind this ancient tradition.
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Arrive at the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding early, when pandas are most active at feeding; your guide helps you read between the adults, the cubs and the red pandas along the shaded boardwalk. Back in the old city, Kuanzhai Alley pairs restored Qing courtyard lanes with teahouses and craft shops. Over at People's Park, sit under the trees at an open-air teahouse, watch ear-cleaning and mahjong, and share a pot of gaiwan jasmine tea the Chengdu way. Finish at dusk on Jinli Ancient Street, a lantern-lit mock-Qing lane where you can sample skewers, dumplings and the local hot peanut ice cream.
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Optional Excursions
Traditional Chengdu Teahouse Experience
Sit back in a classic Sichuan teahouse, sip locally brewed tea, and enjoy the laid-back atmosphere that has made Chengdu famous throughout China.
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Chengdu Ear-Picking Experience
Discover one of Chengdu’s most unique traditions. This relaxing ear-cleaning service has been enjoyed by locals for generations and is often described as a surprisingly soothing cultural experience.
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Heming Teahouse & Sichuan Opera Show
Enjoy a cup of tea at the iconic Heming Teahouse while watching a traditional Sichuan Opera performance, featuring the famous face-changing art, folk music, and cultural entertainment unique to Sichuan.
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Panda Research Program
Add a structured panda learning activity when available. The advisor confirms timing before final booking.
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Panda Base Exclusive Private Charter Vehicle
Ride an exclusive private car with no shared passengers. Cut lengthy walking and visit various panda enclosures at your own comfortable pace.
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Leave Chengdu in the morning for the 2-hour drive to Leshan. At the Leshan Giant Buddha, a 71-meter Maitreya carved into a red cliff where three rivers meet in 713 AD, your guide explains the engineering and Buddhist meaning, then you climb the narrow stairway for a close look at the Buddha's face and feet (or take a river boat for the full-view photo). After lunch, browse the lanes and stilt houses of Suji Ancient Town, once a river-trade stop. While here, try Qiaojiao Beef, a beloved local specialty served in a fragrant broth. Return to Chengdu by late afternoon for an easy evening.
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Optional Excursions
Leshan Buddha Boat View
Add the river boat perspective for a full front view of the Giant Buddha when the service is operating.
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Chengdu Local Breakfast Experience (paid on-site)
Start your day like a local with an authentic Chengdu breakfast experience. Visit a traditional local breakfast shop and try popular Sichuan morning dishes such as noodles, dumplings, sweet water noodles, or tofu pudding. Your guide will introduce the local breakfast culture and help you order according to your taste preferences.
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Chengdu Hot Pot Restaurant Reservation Service
Enjoy an authentic Chengdu hot pot experience without worrying about long waiting times. Your guide will help recommend suitable local hot pot restaurants and arrange advance reservations based on your preferred spice level, dining style, and group size. Perfect for first-time visitors who want to experience Chengdu’s famous hot pot culture.
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Fly from Chengdu to Kunming, the spring-time capital of Yunnan (a 1.5-hour flight; your guide manages check-in and transfers). Afternoon begins at the Yunnan Ethnic Village, an open park where the Bai, Dai, Yi and Naxi peoples of the province are shown through full-scale houses, drums and costume; your guide explains each culture so the models mean something. Then visit Dounan Flower Market, the largest fresh-flower trading hub in China, where a colorful variety of fresh flowers are traded in huge quantities each day. Check into Kunming and enjoy the mild climate on an evening walk.
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Optional Excursions
Dynamic Yunnan – Category C Ticket (Guide & Private Vehicle Included)
Discover the energy of Dynamic Yunnan, a landmark production that brings Yunnan’s folk traditions, music and dance to life on stage. With large-scale group dances, dramatic lighting and rhythmic drumming, the performance creates a vivid portrait of the region’s cultural heritage. Category C seats are mainly in the side sections or farther toward the rear, offering a broad view of the full stage at a more accessible price.
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Dynamic Yunnan – Category B Ticket (Guide & Private Vehicle Included)
Watch Dynamic Yunnan unfold through powerful rhythms, colorful costumes and distinctive dances inspired by Yunnan’s diverse ethnic cultures. The production combines authentic folk traditions with modern stage design, creating a lively and atmospheric journey through the province. Category B seats are mainly toward the sides of the central section, or slightly closer to the front or rear of the theater.
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Dynamic Yunnan – Category A Ticket (Guide & Private Vehicle Included)
See Dynamic Yunnan, Yang Liping's folk dance production first staged in 2003, drawn from the songs, dances and daily life of Yunnan's ethnic communities - strong drums, sharp movement and brightly colored costumes. Category A seats give a clear, central view of the stage.
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Dynamic Yunnan – VIP Ticket (Guide & Private Vehicle Included)
See Dynamic Yunnan, Yang Liping's folk dance production first staged in 2003, drawn from the songs, dances and daily life of Yunnan's ethnic communities - strong drums, sharp movement and brightly colored costumes. VIP seats sit in the prime central block, mainly rows 4 to 8, close to the stage.
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Drive about 1.5 hours to the Stone Forest (Shilin), a UNESCO-listed karst field of limestone blades sculpted by rain over some 270 million years; your guide walks the shaded stone corridors and tells the Ashma legend of the Yi people. Return to Kunming for lunch, then board a high-speed train west to Dali, roughly 2 hours along the plateau. Arrive in Dali beneath the green Cangshan range, check in, and take an easy evening along the edge of the old town as the mountain turns violet.
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Optional Excursions
Sani Yi Ethnic Dress‑up Experience at Stone Forest
The love legend of Ashima and Ahei comes from Stone Forest's karst peaks. Put on richly embroidered traditional Sani ceremonial dress, then walk the winding stone paths as the mountain wind moves across the fabric. It's a slower way to take in Sani folk culture than a quick photo stop.
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Take the Gantong Cableway up Cangshan to around 2,600 meters, enjoying views of Erhai Lake and the Dali valley. Your guide brings the mountain to life with stories of its temples, local legends such as Zhenlong Chess Formation, and the traditions surrounding its historic sites. Descend to the Three Pagodas of Chongsheng Temple, the tallest rising 69 meters and standing since the 9th-century Nanzhao kingdom; your guide explains the Bai Buddhist devotion that built them. Spend the afternoon and evening in Dali Ancient Town, a grid of cobbled lanes, canals and Bai houses with carved wooden doors, best explored on foot with street coffee and local snacks.
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Optional Excursions
Ximatan Cable Car & Alpine Scenery
Take the Ximatan Cable Car up to around 3,920 meters, reaching one of the highest accessible points on Cangshan Mountain. Compared with the Gantong Cable Car, Ximatan reaches a much higher altitude and allows more time to explore Cangshan’s alpine scenery. Enjoy views of Erhai Lake and the Dali Valley, then explore Ximatan Lake, alpine meadows and rhododendron-covered slopes. On clear days, seas of clouds and lingering snow add to the scenery. This option suits active travelers comfortable with high altitude who want a deeper Cangshan experience.
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Rose Pastry Making Experience
Step into the world of Yunnan’s beloved flower cakes (rose pastries), flaky pastries filled with fragrant rose petals. Begin in the rose garden, where you can pick fresh edible roses yourself before turning them into a sweet, floral filling. With guidance from a local instructor, knead, roll, fill and shape your own pastries, then bake them to golden perfection. As they emerge warm from the oven, savor their delicate rose aroma and enjoy a delicious taste of Yunnan.
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Start the day with a leisurely bike ride along Erhai Lake, taking in the beautiful lakeside scenery and distant views of the Cangshan Mountains. Continue to Xizhou Ancient Town, where you can stroll along its old streets, admire traditional Bai courtyard houses and learn about local customs and daily life. You may also try the local specialty, Xizhou Baba, a popular savory or sweet pastry. Next, visit Zhoucheng Village, known for its traditional Bai tie-dye craft. Learn how local artisans create intricate patterns using folding, binding and dyeing techniques, and gain a closer look at this long-standing handicraft. After the day's sightseeing, take a high-speed train to Lijiang, where you will continue your journey.
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Optional Excursions
Erhai Lake Cycling Tour (about 2 hours)
For active travelers, cycling along Erhai Lake is a refreshing way to experience its beauty up close. Pedal beside the sparkling water with Cangshan Mountain stretching across the horizon, feeling the breeze as you pass quiet villages, wetlands and open lakeside paths. Stop whenever you like to take in the scenery, snap photos, and enjoy the freedom of exploring Erhai at your own pace.
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Erhai Lake Sightseeing Cart Tour (about 1 hour)
Hop aboard a comfortable open-air sightseeing cart and cruise along the shores of Erhai Lake. Follow the scenic lakeside road with sparkling waters on one side and Cangshan Mountain and traditional Bai-style villages on the other. Feel the fresh breeze, enjoy the changing scenery, and take in the beauty of Erhai at an easy pace.
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Xizhou Rice Field Mini Train
Hop aboard the Xizhou Rice Field Train and ride through the countryside around Xizhou Ancient Town. Pass open fields and rice paddies, with Cangshan Mountain forming a dramatic backdrop to the rural landscape. Watch the fields shift from fresh green to golden hues with the seasons, feel the breeze, and enjoy a slower side of Dali.
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Erhai Lake Cruise (about 2–3 hours)
Board a spacious sightseeing cruise and set out across the sparkling waters of Erhai Lake. Enjoy sweeping views of Cangshan Mountain, traditional lakeside villages and fishing boats from the open deck. In the cooler months, hundreds of red-billed gulls may gather around the boat, creating a lively scene against the blue lake and snow-capped mountains.
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Craft Your Own Bai Tile Cat
Discover Tile Cat, a distinctive Bai roof guardian from Dali and a national intangible cultural heritage. Though known as a “cat,” it takes inspiration from the tiger and symbolizes protection, good fortune and the safeguarding of the home. Get hands-on with clay, shape your own Tile Cat step by step, and add its distinctive features and details. Learn how its bold expressions and playful forms reflect traditional Bai beliefs, then take home your handmade creation as a unique reminder of Bai culture.
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Bai Three-Course Tea Experience
Experience Three-Course Tea, known in the Bai language as Shaodaozhao, a cherished tradition for welcoming honored guests and a national intangible cultural heritage. Its three cups follow the philosophy of “one bitter, two sweet, three aftertastes”: bitterness reflects life’s hardships, sweetness represents the joys that follow, while the lingering aftertaste speaks to life’s richness and wisdom. More than a tea ceremony, it offers a taste of Bai culture and its timeless philosophy of life.
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Head out to Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, a range of 13 peaks near Lijiang that stays snow-capped through summer. At about 3,100 meters in the Ganhaizi meadow your guide explains the Naxi view of the mountain as a guardian god before you ride the Glacier Park cableway up to roughly 4,500 meters, walking the ridge slowly and acclimatizing (oxygen bottles are on hand). Descend into Blue Moon Valley, a string of turquoise pools fed by glacial melt and linked by wooden walkways. If the show runs, catch Impression Lijiang, an open-air performance by Naxi, Yi and Bai villagers on the mountain own stage.
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Optional Excursions
Impression Lijiang VIP Ticket
Upgrade to VIP seating for a more comfortable experience of Impression Lijiang. VIP seats are in the central section, offering a wide, unobstructed view of the full stage and the snow-covered peaks of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain beyond. VIP ticket holders also enjoy a dedicated admission channel, making entry more relaxed and hassle-free.
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Ride the Cableway to Spruce Meadow
Compared with Glacier Park’s stark alpine scenery, Spruce Meadow offers a greener and more pastoral side of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain. Ride through the dense spruce forest before reaching a highland meadow surrounded by tall trees, with the snow-covered peaks rising beyond. Cattle and sheep can often be seen grazing across the grassland, adding a lively touch to the peaceful mountain setting.
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Start in Baisha Ancient Town, the earliest Naxi settlement north of Lijiang and quieter than the big old town; here you can see the Baisha Murals, 15th-century paintings that blend Tibetan, Han and Naxi styles. Your guide introduces you to a local Naxi family, where you can try on traditional Naxi clothing, learn about Dongba script and discover local customs and family life. Return to Lijiang and fly to Shanghai (about 3.5 hours; your guide handles the transfer and boarding). Settle into your Shanghai hotel and rest for the two city days ahead.
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Optional Excursions
Baisha Murals → Visit the original historic murals
Discover the artistic legacy of Baisha through the murals preserved in its historic temple buildings. Take in richly detailed religious scenes, figures, and decorative motifs that reflect the cultural exchange among Naxi, Tibetan, Bai, and Han traditions. As you explore the museum, your guide can introduce the stories and symbolism behind the paintings, offering a closer look at the history and artistry of this remarkable collection.
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Baisha Mural Painting Experience
Step into a traditional Baisha mural workshop and learn how mineral pigments and traditional techniques bring mural art to life. Grind and mix the pigments, follow classic motifs, and paint your own artwork step by step with guidance. Rather than simply viewing historic murals, this hands-on experience lets you explore the art through your own brushstrokes and gain a closer feel for Baisha’s Naxi and Dongba traditions.
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Begin at Yu Garden, a Ming-era scholar garden of rocks, ponds and pavilions, with its bazaar outside selling soup dumplings and snacks; your guide walks the classical layout. Then explore the Old French Concession along plane-tree-lined streets like Wukang Road, past Art Deco villas and cafe corners. Duck into Tianzifang, a maze of lilong lanes turned into craft studios and small galleries, and browse the brick-and-wood Shikumen architecture. Continue down Nanjing Road, the great shopping boulevard of Shanghai, to finish at the Bund at dusk, where your guide tells how the colonial riverfront banks and the opposite Pudong skyline (with the Pearl Tower and Shanghai Tower) recount the city two-century story.
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Optional Excursions
World’s Largest Starbucks Reserve Roastery Experience
Visit the world’s largest Starbucks Reserve Roastery located on West Nanjing Road, Shanghai – bigger than the original Seattle flagship. This one-of-a-kind venue functions like an exclusive coffee museum, showcasing the full coffee roasting process, rare global coffee beans and exclusive limited-edition merchandise. Your experience includes one signature in-store coffee drink to enjoy while exploring this iconic landmark before wrapping up your Shanghai trip.
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Four Staples Lane Breakfast Experience
Start the day like a true Shanghainese with the iconic Four Staples (Si Da Jin Gang) - dalengbing (sesame flatbread), cifan (glutinous rice roll), youtiao (fried dough), and doujiang (soy milk). The early-morning immersion begins with a short culture class on Shanghai's breakfast heritage, then dives into the lively Anshan Road Market to taste freshly made classics straight from the vendors, finishing with a basket of soup dumplings and a crash lesson in Shanghainese phrases you can use right away.
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Qipao Fitting and Traditional Chinese Photography
Experience the elegance of traditional Chinese fashion with a qipao fitting and photography session. Choose your favorite style and enjoy professional styling before taking photos in a traditional Chinese setting. Your local guide will assist with communication, help you understand the different styles, and recommend suitable photography locations to make this a memorable cultural experience.
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Haipai Qipao Bespoke Experience (paid on site)
Try the Haipai (Shanghai-style) qipao, an intangible cultural heritage that blends Western tailoring with Chinese silhouettes. Visit the workshop to learn its hundred-year history, pick your own fabric, and have a tailor measure and make a qipao for you. You can also try making frog buttons and preview the fit in a digital mirror; bespoke cost paid on site.
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Shanghai Evening River Cruise
After daytime sightseeing, join an optional evening Huangpu River cruise. Glide past the lit colonial buildings of the Bund and the towers of Lujiazui, and watch the city shift from day to night from the water.
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Take a day trip to Zhujiajiao, a canal water town about an hour west of Shanghai whose old streets sit on stone bridges over narrow lanes. Walk the gabled Fangsheng Bridge, ride a wooden rowboat along the main stream past stilted houses and washstone steps, and see Kezhi Garden, a waterside classical layout; your guide explains how these towns lived on trade and boats. The lanes are full of braided fish, sticky rice and tea shops, so you can pick your own snack. Return to your Shanghai hotel in the evening for a relaxed last night on the tour.
Today's Highlights
Optional Excursions
Private Hand-Rolled Boat Tour in Zhujiajiao
You get a private‑only boat without sharing with strangers. Cruise along Caogang and Guodong River past Fangsheng Bridge, Kezhi Garden and nine ancient Ming‑Qing bridges. The boat‑woman sings folk Jiangnan songs. Stop at nice spots to shoot water reflections. You can adjust the boat’s pace freely.
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Zhujiajiao Traditional Plant Tie-Dyeing DIY Workshop
Join this workshop at Xijing Street Intangible‑Cultural‑Heritage zone. With plant‑based pigments from Dianshan Lake, you make dyed scarves, handkerchiefs or canvas bags. Experienced craftsmen give one‑on‑one guidance for binding, dyeing and color‑setting. Every unique handmade item can be taken home. This easy‑going activity suits guests of all ages.
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Traditional Chinese Seal Carving
Explore the traditional Chinese art of seal carving and create a personalized stone seal of your own. Under the guidance of an experienced instructor, learn about traditional seal designs, Chinese characters, and basic carving techniques. Your guide will introduce the cultural significance of Chinese seals and assist you in choosing suitable characters and communicating with the instructor.
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On your final morning, enjoy a slow breakfast and pack at your own pace before checking out. At the arranged time, your driver will meet you at the hotel and provide a private transfer to Shanghai Pudong International Airport, Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport or the railway station, according to your onward travel plans. Your driver will assist with your luggage and ensure a comfortable journey to your departure point. We wish you a pleasant onward journey and hope to welcome you back to China!
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Hand-picked hotels chosen for location, character, and comfort.
A luxury five-star hotel in the heart of Wangfujing, offering elegant rooms, exceptional service, and convenient access to the Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square, and Beijing’s historic hutongs. Enjoy modern comfort, fine dining, a relaxing spa, and the legendary Forbidden City afternoon tea experience.
A luxury five-star hotel located in the heart of Xi’an, combining French elegance with traditional Chinese charm. Situated in the historic Renmin Square area, the hotel offers easy access to the Bell Tower, Drum Tower, Muslim Quarter, and other major attractions. Guests can enjoy stylish rooms, excellent dining options, a relaxing spa, and modern facilities for a comfortable stay in Xi’an.
A luxury five-star hotel in the heart of Chengdu, offering elegant accommodations, personalized service, and panoramic city views. Located near Tianfu Square, the hotel provides convenient access to Chengdu’s famous attractions, including the Giant Panda Base, Kuanzhai Alley, and Chunxi Road. Enjoy refined dining, a relaxing spa, and exceptional comfort for an unforgettable stay in the city of pandas.
A luxury five-star hotel located in the heart of Kunming, offering elegant accommodations, personalized service, and panoramic city views. Situated in the city’s vibrant business and shopping district, the hotel provides convenient access to Kunming’s famous attractions, including Green Lake Park, Yuantong Temple, and Nanping Street. Guests can enjoy refined dining options, a relaxing spa, modern fitness facilities, and exceptional comfort for an unforgettable stay in Yunnan.
A traditional Dali residence transformed into a refined boutique retreat, blending Nanzhao-inspired architecture, vintage details, natural wood, and tranquil courtyards. Carefully selected furnishings and local decorative elements add character, while the rooftop terrace offers views of Cangshan and a relaxed setting connected to the history of Dali Ancient Town.
A design-led boutique hotel inspired by Lijiang’s Tea Horse Road heritage, blending Naxi culture, caravan traditions, and contemporary comfort. Creative details such as saddle-inspired décor, caravan-style furnishings, and Jade Dragon Snow Mountain murals bring the old trading route to life, while peaceful Naxi-style courtyards offer a quiet retreat just steps from the ancient town.
A luxury five-star hotel located in the heart of downtown Shanghai, just steps away from Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street and close to the Bund, People’s Square, and major city attractions. Combining classic European elegance with modern comfort, the hotel offers spacious rooms, refined dining options, excellent service, and convenient access to Shanghai’s cultural and shopping highlights.
Comfortable, safe, and well-maintained vehicles throughout your journey.
Late-Model Vehicles (2022+)
All vehicles are 2022 or newer models — modern, safe, and meticulously maintained.
Daily Deep Cleaning
Every vehicle is sanitized and detailed before each use.
Professional Drivers
Licensed, uniformed drivers with 5+ years of tourist transport experience.
Full Insurance Coverage
Comprehensive commercial insurance for all vehicles and passengers.
Onboard Amenities
Complimentary water, Wi-Fi, phone chargers, and tissues on every ride.
Climate Comfort
Dual-zone climate control ensures perfect temperature year-round.
We usually arrange a 5-seater for 1–2 guests, a 7-seater for 3–5 guests, and a 12-seater for 6–9 guests, and so on. All vehicles have ample luggage space. Photos are for reference only. Vehicle brands and models may vary by destination.
Have a specific restaurant or dietary need in mind? Vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, halal, and other requests can be accommodated with advance notice.
Heritage Restaurants
Historic establishments with decades of culinary tradition — where locals celebrate.
Local Family Kitchens
Home-cooked meals with local families — authentic recipes passed down generations.
Street Food & Night Markets
Guided tastings through iconic food streets with a local foodie guide.
Farm-to-Table Fresh
Seasonal dishes with ingredients grown on-site, set against scenic backdrops.
Fine Dining & Michelin
Award-winning restaurants with tasting menus, wine pairings, and unforgettable culinary artistry.
Dining Preferences & Dietary Requirements
Share dietary needs, restaurant preferences, or food interests before travel so the advisor can confirm practical arrangements.
Your private guide oversees the day's logistics, including the visit order, pacing, walking routes, attraction entry arrangements, and coordination with the driver. By adjusting the schedule based on traffic, crowd conditions, and your interests, the guide ensures a seamless, flexible, and personalized sightseeing experience.
Licensed & Certified Guides
All guides hold national tourism licenses and have 5+ years of experience.
English Proficiency (IELTS 7+)
Fluent communication — guides can discuss history, culture, and current events with ease.
Multi-Language Available
English, French, German, Spanish, Japanese, and Korean-speaking guides available on request.
Wireless Audio Headsets
Every guest receives a headset so you never miss a word, even in crowded sites.
No Forced Shopping Guarantee
Zero pressure — we never force you into souvenir shops. Your time is yours.
Local Shopping Recommendations
Want authentic gifts? We'll recommend trusted local markets and artisan shops — no tourist traps.
Our “No Forced Shopping” Promise
We guarantee zero shopping stops unless you specifically request them. If you ever feel pressured, contact us immediately for a full refund of that day's service.
Request a Specialist Guide
Interested in a specific topic? We can arrange historian guides for cultural sites, photographer guides for scenic spots, or foodie guides for culinary tours. Just let us know when booking.
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Yes. It covers China's iconic historical sites, cultural attractions, natural landscapes and vibrant cities, making it ideal for first-time visitors.
The highlights include Erhai Lake, Dali Ancient Town, Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, Blue Moon Valley, and traditional Bai and Naxi cultural experiences.
Yes. You can adjust the sightseeing schedule, activities and length of stay according to your interests and travel preferences.
Yes. Private airport transfers can be arranged for your arrival and departure, according to your flight schedule.
The tour includes comfortable, well-located hotels in each destination. Hotel options can be tailored to your preferred comfort level and budget.
Beijing → Xi'an → Yichang → Chongqing → Chengdu → Dali → Kunming → Guilin → Yangshuo → Hangzhou → Suzhou → Shanghai
THE LOCAL DIFFERENCE
Hike ancient watchtowers and enjoy sweeping views of the Great Wall across the mountain ridges.
See Qin’s life-size terracotta army up close and uncover the story behind this ancient wonder.
Advisor-designed quote
Forbidden City → Mutianyu Great Wall → Temple of Heaven → Summer Palace → High-Speed Train → The Bund → Yuyuan Garden → Zhujiajiao Water Town
THE LOCAL DIFFERENCE
Walk the most scenic stretch of the Wall with your guide, taking in watchtower after watchtower without the crowds at Badaling.
Your guide brings the Forbidden City to life, pointing out the details that guidebooks miss — from carved dragons to hidden courtyards.
Advisor-designed quote
Beijing → Xi'an → Chengdu → Leshan → Chongqing → Guiyang → Guilin → Guangzhou → Shenzhen → Hong Kong
THE LOCAL DIFFERENCE
Walk the same axis as Ming and Qing dynasties through Tiananmen Square and the Forbidden City, tracing the legacy of China's imperial past.
Descend into the pit where Qin Shi Huang's stone army has kept watch for two millennia, revealing the remarkable scale of his imperial ambitions.
Advisor-designed quote
Tiananmen→Forbidden City→Jingshan→Temple of Heaven→Facial Makeup Painting→Lama Temple→Confucius Temple→Hutong→Zoo→Summer Palace→798→Mutianyu→Dingling→Changling
THE LOCAL DIFFERENCE
Wander through grand landmarks, historic streets, and quiet corners shaped by centuries of stories.
Experience local traditions, creative spaces, and everyday moments that reveal the city’s many sides.
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