Itinerary Details

Itinerary Quick Look

We’re happy to tailor this 3-week private tour to match your interests. Please note that the time frame is for reference only and may vary due to traffic conditions on the day of your tour.

Day 1: Arrival in Beijing

Airport Pickup: You will be greeted at the airport and transferred to your hotel in downtown Beijing to check in and rest. Hotel Recommendation: Stay at a premium hotel in the city center, close to major attractions for convenient sightseeing.

Free Time: In the evening, take a leisurely walk around Wangfujing Pedestrian Street, enjoying the city’s night view or sampling Beijing's famous snacks.

Day 2: Tiananmen Square – Forbidden City – Hutong Alleyways

Tiananmen Square: Start your day with a visit to Tiananmen Square, the world’s largest city square and a symbol of Beijing.

Forbidden City: Enter the Forbidden City to explore the grandeur of China’s imperial palace from the Ming and Qing dynasties. A guided tour is recommended, and it takes about 3 hours to visit. 

Peking Duck Lunch: Enjoy an authentic Peking Duck lunch (at your own expense) at renowned restaurants like Quanjude or Da Dong.

Hutong Alleyways: In the afternoon, explore Beijing’s traditional Hutongs, where you can take a rickshaw ride to experience the local way of life and see the traditional courtyard houses.

Day 3: Mutianyu Great Wall – Summer Palace

Mutianyu Great Wall: After breakfast, depart from the city center for a 2-hour drive to the Mutianyu section of the Great Wall. This part of the wall offers beautiful scenery and fewer crowds. You can hike or take a cable car. Allocate about 2 hours for this visit.

Lunch: Enjoy a local meal (at your own expense) near the Great Wall.

Summer Palace: After returning to the city, visit the Summer Palace, a grand imperial garden featuring serene lakes and classical Chinese architecture, perfect for a leisurely afternoon.

Return to Hotel: Return to the hotel for dinner and relaxation.

Day 4: Lama Temple – Beihai Park

Lama Temple: Start your day with a visit to Lama Temple (Yonghe Temple), a stunning Tibetan Buddhist temple known for its intricate architecture and serene atmosphere. Take your time to explore its halls and admire the impressive Buddha statues. 

Beihai Park: After lunch, visit Beihai Park, one of the oldest and most well-preserved imperial gardens in China. Stroll around the beautiful lake, explore the gardens, and visit the White Pagoda, offering panoramic views of the area.

Day 5: Temple of Heaven – High-Speed Train to Xi’an

Temple of Heaven: After breakfast, visit the Temple of Heaven, where emperors prayed for good harvests. Famous for its architectural and historical significance, the visit takes around 2 hours.

Lunch: Enjoy lunch (at your own expense) at a nearby restaurant.

Beijing West Railway Station: Around 12:55 PM, you will be transferred to the railway station to take a high-speed train to Xi’an (approximately 5.5 hours).

Arrival in Xi'an: Upon arrival around 17:08 PM, you’ll be picked up and transferred to your hotel in downtown Xi’an.

Optional: Enjoy the Legend of the Camel Bells, a performance in the evening.

Day 6: Terracotta Army – Xi’an Ancient City Wall – Great Mosque – Muslim Quarter

Terracotta Army Museum: In the morning, head to Lintong to visit the world-famous Terracotta Army Museum, where you can discover the grandeur of the first emperor of China, Qin Shi Huang. The tour lasts about 3 hours.

Xi'an Ancient City Wall: Return to the city to explore the well-preserved Ming Dynasty City Wall. You can walk or rent a bike to ride along the wall and enjoy panoramic views of Xi'an.

Great Mosque: Visit the Great Mosque, one of the oldest and most famous Islamic structures in China, combining Chinese and Islamic architectural styles. Muslim Quarter: In the evening, explore the Muslim Quarter, where you can taste local Muslim street food such as lamb skewers, roujiamo (meat sandwiches), and noodles (at your own expense). 

Optional: Tang Dynasty Music and Dance Show in the evening.

 Day 7: Big Wild Goose Pagoda – Hanyangling Tomb – Fly to Lhasa

Big Wild Goose Pagoda: Visit the iconic landmark to explore Xi'an’s history and Buddhist influence. 

Hanyangling Tomb: Explore the mausoleum of Emperor Jing of Han and learn more about Han Dynasty history and culture.

Lunch: Enjoy local snacks before heading to the airport for your 4:10 PM flight to Lhasa.

Arrival in Lhasa: Upon arrival around 7:35 PM, your tour guide will meet you at the airport, assist with your hotel check-in, and ensure you have ample time to rest and acclimate, minimizing the risk of altitude sickness.

Day 8: Norbulingka-Drepung Monastery-Sera Monastery

Begin your Lhasa journey with a visit to Norbulingka, the "Summer Palace" of the Dalai Lamas. This stunning retreat features lush gardens, elegant pavilions, and impressive Tibetan architecture.

Next, head to Drepung Monastery, located 6 kilometers (4 miles) from Norbulingka. One of the "Three Great Monasteries" of Tibet, it is renowned for hosting the vibrant Shoton Festival, celebrated annually in late summer.

In the afternoon, visit Sera Monastery, where you'll witness a unique Tibetan tradition: monks engaging in animated debates. This lively practice helps monastic students hone their knowledge and critical thinking skills, offering a fascinating insight into Tibetan Buddhist culture.

Day 9 Potala Palace-Jokhang Temple-Barkhor Street

Start your day at the iconic Potala Palace, Tibet's most famous landmark. To capture stunning photographs, your guide will take you to a scenic viewpoint with fewer crowds.

Next, experience authentic Tibetan life at Jokhang Temple, a sacred pilgrimage site. Continue to the bustling Barkhor Street, where you'll find tea houses, restaurants, and stalls brimming with local goods. As you explore, you'll see pilgrims walking clockwise around Jokhang Temple, spinning prayer wheels and performing prostrations as acts of devotion.

Day 10: Yamdrok Lake

Discover the breathtaking beauty of Yamdrok Lake, one of Tibet's most sacred and picturesque lakes. Surrounded by snowcapped mountains and sprawling grasslands, the turquoise waters offer a serene and awe-inspiring experience.

Day 11: Fly to Chengdu

Today is a travel day as you take a 2-hour flight from Lhasa to Chengdu. Your guide will assist with the transfer, ensuring a smooth and comfortable journey.

Day 12: Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding – People's Park

Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding: Start your day early at the Chengdu Panda Base, where you can observe adorable giant pandas in their natural habitat. Enjoy the sight of playful panda cubs and learn about conservation efforts for these endangered species. Capture memorable photos and immerse yourself in this unique wildlife experience.

Lunch: After your panda encounter, enjoy a delicious lunch (at your own expense) at a nearby restaurant, sampling local Sichuan cuisine known for its bold flavors and spices.

People's Park: In the afternoon, visit People's Park, a popular recreational area where locals gather. Stroll through the lush gardens, enjoy a traditional tea at a local tea house, and experience the vibrant culture of Chengdu, often referred to as the "land of abundance." Engage with locals practicing tai chi or singing.

Return to Hotel: After a day of exploration, return to your hotel for dinner and relaxation.

Day 13: Leshan Giant Buddha – Tea Village

Leshan Giant Buddha: Depart for a day trip to Leshan, home to the UNESCO-listed Leshan Giant Buddha. Marvel at this monumental statue carved into a cliff face and enjoy the scenic views of the confluence of the Minjiang, Dadu, and Qingyi rivers. Allocate around 2-3 hours for your visit to fully appreciate this historical and cultural landmark. Lunch: Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant in Leshan (at your own expense), trying regional specialties, including Leshan spicy fish and Sichuan hotpot.

Tea Village: After visiting the Giant Buddha, head to a nearby tea village where you can learn about tea production and enjoy a tea tasting session. Discover the rich history of Chinese tea culture and sample various types of green tea and black tea. Explore traditional tea houses and local crafts.

Return to Chengdu: Head back to Chengdu in the evening and relax at your hotel.

Day 14: Fly to Zhangjiajie-Zhangjiajie National Forest Park

Flight to Zhangjiajie: Depart from Chengdu on an 8:10 AM flight and arrive in Zhangjiajie at 9:30 AM. 

Airport Pickup: Upon arrival, you will be greeted at the airport and transferred to Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its stunning landscapes.

Zhangjiajie National Forest Park: Explore Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, famous for its spectacular sandstone pillars and breathtaking landscapes, which inspired the floating mountains in the film Avatar. You can hike or take the park’s scenic cable cars to enjoy panoramic views of the unique rock formations and lush greenery. Allocate sufficient time to visit highlights like Tianmen Mountain and Golden Whip Stream.

Hotel Check-in: After a day of exploration, check into your hotel in Zhangjiajie for dinner and relaxation.

Day 15: Tianmen Mountain

Tianmen Mountain: Start your day with a visit to Tianmen Mountain, a stunning natural attraction located just outside Zhangjiajie. Begin your adventure by taking the world’s longest and highest cable car ride, which offers breathtaking

views of the surrounding landscape as you ascend the mountain. Upon reaching the summit, explore the various walking trails and scenic spots that showcase the unique beauty of this area, including lush forests and spectacular cliffs.

Tianmen Cave: Don’t miss the famous Tianmen Cave, also known as Heaven’s Gate, a natural rock arch that stands 1,500 meters above sea level. Climb the 999 steps to reach this iconic landmark and enjoy panoramic views of the Zhangjiajie region.

Lunch: After exploring Tianmen Mountain, enjoy a local lunch (at your own expense) at a nearby restaurant, sampling dishes that reflect the Hunan cuisine, known for its bold flavors and spiciness.

Glass Skywalk: Experience the thrill of walking on the Glass Skywalk, an exhilarating pathway that clings to the side of the mountain. This transparent walkway offers stunning views of the valleys below and is a perfect spot for photography. Walk along the Tianmen Mountain Glass Skywalk, which is about 60 meters long and provides an unforgettable experience for adrenaline seekers and nature lovers alike.

Return to Zhangjiajie City: After your adventure on the Glass Skywalk, take some time to relax and enjoy the beautiful surroundings before heading back to Zhangjiajie city. And then have a rest in your hotel.

Day 16: High-speed train to Guilin – Reed Flute Cave

Arrival in Guilin: Take a high-speed train at 7:17 a.m. to Shanghai, arriving at 2:07 p.m., and then be transferred to the hotel.

Reed Flute Cave: Start your Guilin journey with a visit to Reed Flute Cave, one of Guilin’s most famous attractions. Spend 2 hour marveling at the stunning limestone formations, illuminated by vibrant lights. Explore the cave's intricate stalactites, stalagmites, and stone pillars, while learning about its rich history and legends.

Day 17: Li River Cruise to Yangshuo

Embark on the Li River Cruise at around 9:00 a.m., a world-renowned journey through one of the most picturesque regions of China’s karst mountains. Sail through breathtaking scenery with  mist-covered peaks, bamboo groves, and charming villages along the Li River. This is often regarded as the best way to experience Guilin's natural beauty.

Yangshuo Arrival: Arrive in the quaint town of Yangshuo at around 1:00 p.m., which is surrounded by stunning mountains. Check into your hotel and prepare to explore this popular Yangshuo tourist destination.

West Street: In the evening, stroll through West Street, Yangshuo’s vibrant center filled with cafes, shops, and street performers. Known as the “Foreigner’s Street”, this pedestrian-only area is a lively spot for Yangshuo nightlife and a mix of local and international culture.

Yulong River: The Yulong River is a peaceful and scenic waterway in Yangshuo, surrounded by stunning karst peaks, bamboo forests, and charming villages.

Day 18: Yangshuo to Longji Rice Terraces – Guilin Return

Depart for Longji Rice Terraces: After breakfast, travel to the famous Longji Rice Terraces, also  known as the Dragon’s Backbone Rice Terraces, located in Longsheng County (about 2.5-3 hours away). These terraces are one of the most impressive examples of agricultural terraces in China and a top Guilin day trip destination. 

Exploring Longji Terraces: Hike through the scenic Longji Rice Terraces, exploring the terraced fields that have been carved into the mountains for over 600 years. Visit traditional Zhuang and Yao minority villages to learn about their unique cultures and agricultural practices. The panoramic views of the rice terraces make it a favorite spot for photography. 

Lunch at a Local Restaurant: Enjoy a traditional meal at a local farmhouse restaurant (at your own expense), where you can taste authentic rural Chinese cuisine, including bamboo-cooked rice and wild vegetables. 

Return to Guilin: After lunch, head back to Guilin in the afternoon. Relax in your hotel or take the evening to explore Guilin city on your own.

Day 19: Fly to Shanghai-Nanjing Road-Shanghai Tower

Flight to Shanghai: Board your flight to Shanghai, departing at 7:30 a.m. and arriving at Shanghai Pudong International Airport around 9:50 a.m.. Upon arrival, you’ll be transferred to your hotel. We recommend booking your stay near The Bund or Nanjing Road.

Take a break and explore Nanjing Road to have lunch (at your own expense) there. Afterwards, you’ll be transferred to Shanghai Tower, a modern marvel and China's tallest building, soaring 632 meters (2,073 feet) into the sky. It symbolizes Shanghai's rapid growth and innovation.

There’s no need to buy tickets for Shanghai Tower in advance, as sometimes there are too many people lining up on the day. If you’d like to visit, you can buy tickets on the spot (your tour guide may help you). If you decide not to visit Shanghai Tower, the Jinmao Tower can be a good alternative.

 Day 20: The Bund – Chenghuang Temple – Yu Garden – French Concession (Tianzifang &Xintiandi) – Huangpu River Cruise

The Bund: Start your day with a refreshing morning walk along The Bund, the famous waterfront area lined with colonial-era buildings and stunning views of the modern skyscrapers in Pudong, including the Oriental Pearl Tower, Shanghai Tower, and Jin Mao Tower. It’s a great spot for photos and to feel the pulse of the city. You can also visit some of the iconic buildings like the Peace Hotel or the Customs House.

Chenghuang Temple: Head to Chenghuang temple (City God Temple), a significant Taoist temple and marketplace in the old city. The temple itself is a great place to explore traditional Chinese architecture and religious culture. The surrounding bazaar offers a variety of snacks, souvenirs, and local crafts.

Yu Garden: Located next to Chenghuang Temple, Yu Garden is a classical Chinese garden that dates back to the Ming Dynasty. Stroll through its serene landscapes, ancient pavilions, rockeries, and ponds, taking in the peace and beauty of one of Shanghai's most treasured historic sites. A visit here can offer insight into Chinese garden art and

design.

Lunch Recommendation: Have lunch (at your own expense) at a nearby restaurant offering traditional Shanghainese cuisine. Popular dishes include xiaolongbao (soup dumplings), shengjianbao (pan-fried dumplings), and lion's head meatballs.

Tianzifang: In the afternoon, visit Tianzifang, located in the French Concession. This maze of narrow alleyways is home to trendy boutiques, art galleries, cafes, and craft shops. It offers a unique blend of old-world charm and modern creativity, making it a favorite spot for both locals and tourists. 

Xintiandi: From Tianzifang, head to Xintiandi, a pedestrian street known for its stylish mix of old Shikumen architecture and modern cafes, restaurants, and shopping. It’s a popular spot to relax, people-watch, and grab a coffee or tea. The area also offers historical significance, as it’s where the First Congress of the Chinese Communist Party was held in 1921.

Huangpu River Cruise: In the evening, enjoy a Huangpu River Cruise. This scenic boat ride offers breathtaking views of Shanghai’s skyline, with the modern skyscrapers of Pudong on one side and the historic buildings of The Bund on the other. The city is beautifully illuminated at night, creating an unforgettable experience as you glide along the river.

Day 21: Departure from Shanghai

Depending on your flight time, you will be transferred to the airport for your departure, concluding your 3-week journey.