China Express & Yangtze

Shanghai to Beijing - 14 Days

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14 Days China Tour

Destinations Highlights: Shanghai → Zhangjiajie → Yangtze River → Chongqing → Xiaan → Beijing

Kick off your China adventure in Shanghai, the Pearl of the Orient! Wander the Bund, explore Yu Garden,
and soak up the unique mix of colonial charm and modern skyscrapers in this dynamic metropolis.

Fly to Zhangjiajie to marvel at the Avatar-inspired floating peaks, then embark on a 3-day upstream Yangtze cruise.
Sail through the dramatic Qutang, Wu and Xiling Gorges, and listen to age-old river legends.

Next, dive into Chongqing's 8D magic—taste Sichuan snacks in Ciqikou, admire Hongyadong's glittering night views,
and explore the mountain city's mind-bending architecture.

Take a high-speed train to Xiaan, the ancient capital of 13 dynasties. Discover the awe-inspiring Terracotta Army,
climb the Big Wild Goose Pagoda, and feast in the bustling Muslim Quarter.

Wrap up your journey in Beijing: hike the Great Wall, wander the Forbidden City,
and enjoy panoramic views of the imperial city from Jingshan Park.

Itinerary

Day 1 - Arrive in Shanghai

On arrival into Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport (SHA) or Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG), you will be met by your dedicated tour guide outside the baggage claim area. On the way to your pre-booked four or five star

Start your Shanghai exploration with a visit to Shanghai Museum—a grand cultural landmark home to more than 140,000 precious relics, which vividly unfolds the profound history and brilliant culture of this world-renowned metropolis. Then take a leisurely stroll along The Bund to soak in the riverside charm, followed by a one-hour cruise on the Huangpu River that showcases the city’s striking skyline contrast: on one side stand the time-honored classical buildings with rich historical heritage, and on the other rise modern icons such as the Oriental Pearl Tower and Jinmao Tower. After the cruise, you will be given some free time to delve deeper into the allure of The Bund. Next, head to Nanjing Road, hailed as China’s busiest shopping thoroughfare, and immerse yourself in its bustling commercial vibe. Make the most of your afternoon by wandering the tranquil lanes of Dongping Road or Sinan Road in the Former French Concession, where you can fully savor the timeless elegance of old Shanghai.

Note: As the Shanghai Museum is closed to public on Mondays, a visit to the Shanghai History Museum is arranged as an alternative.

After breakfast, visit Yuyuan Garden, where you can marvel at the artistically designed traditional Chinese gardens. After lunch, take a domestic flight to Zhangjiajie and be met by the local guide at the airport.

Check in to the hotel and rest for the upcoming exploration.

After breakfast, begin your exploration of this gorgeous region in the Zhangjiajie National Forest Park. Take the world's highest and fastest elevator, the Bailong Elevator to reach the Yuanjiajie Scenic Area, located in the northwest of Zhangjiajie. Be inspired by the highlights to be found there, including the No. 1 Natural Bridge under Heaven, used for the design of Hallelujah Mountains in the famous film Avatar, and other iconic karst landscapes. Afterwards, ride the public shuttle bus to the Tianzi Mountain Nature Reserve and appreciate more of the region's exquisite scenery, including Helong Park, Xihai Stone Forest, Fairy Offering Flowers, and the Imperial Brush Peak. Head down the mountain by taking a two kilometer journey on the Tianzi Mountain Cable Car. (If the cable car is not available, the Bailong Elevator will be taken). Finish the day with a small train trip where you can view the misty karst landscape of the Ten-mile Gallery in the Suoxigu Valley. Following this full day of activities, return to your hotel.

After breakfast, transfer to Yichang, visit the Three Gorges Dam (the world's largest hydroelectric project). Board the cruise ship at Maoping Pier and start the Yangtze River journey. Sail along the Yangtze; go ashore for an excursion to Fengdu Ghost City or Shibaozhai (subject to water level and cruise company). Attend the Captain's Welcome Party in the evening.

As your cruise sails upstream through the mist-cloaked Wu Gorge—the most ethereal stretch of the Yangtze Three Gorges—you’ll be captivated by the sight of steep, forest-cloaked cliffs and the legendary Goddess Peak, its silhouette lingering like a poetic vision amid the clouds. After drifting through this scenic wonder, the ship docks at Wushan Port, where you have two delightful options.You can relax on board at your leisure, sipping tea while gazing at the tranquil river views and rolling hills in the distance. Alternatively, join the optional shore excursion to explore three iconic highlights: the idyllic Little Three Gorges, with its crystal-clear waters and towering karst peaks; the imposing Qutang Gorge, the narrowest and most dramatic section of the Three Gorges; and the historic Baidi City, a hilltop fortress steeped in over 2,000 years of myths and stories.

Continue cruising and arrive in Chongqing in the afternoon. Check in to the hotel after arrival. Spend the rest of the day exploring this incredible city.

Followed by a stroll to Guanyinqiao Pedestrian Street to take in the dynamic urban atmosphere and snap photos with the eye-catching street sculptures; in the late afternoon, make your way to Beicang Cultural and Creative Park, where old warehouses have been transformed into a tranquil space with art galleries and bookstores, and end your day at Hong’en Temple Park, climbing to the top of Hong’en Pagoda to enjoy a sweeping panoramic view of Chongqing's glittering skyline as the sun sets and the city lights up one by one.

Embark your Chongqing exploration with a visit to Ciqikou Old Town, where you can meander along its steep, winding alleyways. Wander into time-honored teahouses, browse tiny hole-in-the-wall shops brimming with handcrafted goods, and sample mouthwatering local treats from street vendors. Next, head to Jiefangbei, the vibrant heart of the city—take your time browsing the bustling stores and soaking up the dynamic energy of this iconic district as the city buzzes around you. Make your way to Kuixinglou Square, a landmark celebrated for its distinctive architectural design that has cemented Chongqing's status as a must-see destination. Then, stop by Liziba Station to marvel at its one-of-a-kind sight: a metro line running straight through a residential building, offering a fascinating glimpse into the daily lives of local residents. Don’t miss Hongyadong, Chongqing's most beloved attraction—its glittering nightscape lights up the sky, and the area is a paradise for foodies and shoppers alike, packed with charming streets lined with eateries and boutiques.

After breakfast, you will be transferred to the high-speed railway station and take a bullet train to Xiaan. Upon arrival, your local tour guide will greet you and escort you to the hotel, offering a brief introduction to the city along the way. You will then have free time to explore Xiaan at your own pace.

Today's itinerary is crowned by a visit to the world-famous Terracotta Army—hailed as the largest underground military museum on Earth. Step into this awe-inspiring archaeological wonder, where thousands of life-sized, individually crafted warrior statues stand sentinel, a silent testament to the grandeur of the ancient Qin Empire. After marveling at this historic treasure, we’ll journey back to the city center to explore the Big Wild Goose Pagoda, one of Xiaan's two most revered Buddhist landmarks. Should time and conditions permit, ascend to the pagoda's upper tiers to gaze out over a skyline layered with 1,400 years of history, then meander through the tranquil temple courtyards and lush gardens, letting the serene atmosphere calm your senses. Next stop is the Great Mosque of Xiaan, a peaceful oasis nestled in the heart of the city's old quarter. Dating back to the mid-7th century, this architectural masterpiece holds the distinction of being China's oldest and largest Islamic mosque—a harmonious fusion of Islamic design and traditional Chinese aesthetics. From there, we’ll dive into the vibrant energy of the Muslim Quarter, where you can rub shoulders with locals, savor a kaleidoscope of flavors from street food stalls serving up authentic Shaanxi delicacies, and hunt for unique souvenirs amid the bustling rows of shops. We’ll bring the day's adventures to a close at Xiaan's iconic Bell Tower and Drum Tower Square, where the rhythmic chimes of the past blend seamlessly with the buzz of modern city life. Afterward, return to your hotel for a leisurely evening, or opt to book a traditional dinner paired with a cultural performance for a truly memorable end to your day in Xiaan.

After breakfast, you will be transferred to the high-speed railway station and take a bullet train to Beijing. Upon arrival, your local tour guide will greet you and escort you to the hotel, offering a brief introduction to the city along the way. You will then have free time to explore Beijing at your own pace.

After breakfast, your dedicated local guide will meet you at the hotel to kick off a full day of exploration across Beijing's most iconic landmarks. First, set foot on Tiananmen Square—the world's grandest urban square, where the air hums with the weight of history and the bustle of daily life. Cross the road to step into the Forbidden City, a resplendent imperial palace that served as the home of Chinese emperors for five centuries. Wander through its labyrinth of golden-roofed halls and tranquil courtyards, and let the echoes of dynastic grandeur wash over you. Once you’ve soaked in the majesty of this UNESCO World Heritage Site, make your way to Qianmen Street, a bustling pedestrian thoroughfare that weaves together Beijing's past and present. Wander past time-honored snack shops serving up local delicacies, traditional handicraft stores brimming with unique souvenirs, and restored historic buildings that hark back to the city's old-world charm. To round out the day, make a stop at the Bird's Nest and Water Cube—architectural marvels built for the 2008 Beijing Olympics and Paralympics. Their bold, futuristic designs stand in striking contrast to the ancient monuments you’ve explored earlier, offering a vivid snapshot of Beijing's seamless blend of time-honored tradition and cutting-edge modernity. Finally, head back to your hotel to unwind and reflect on a day filled with unforgettable sights.

Kick off your day's adventure in the morning with an excursion to the Mutianyu Great Wall. Glide smoothly to the mountaintop and back via a scenic round-trip cable car, soaking in the sweeping vistas of rolling hills and jagged peaks along the way. Then, set foot on the ancient stone battlements, wandering past weathered Ming-dynasty guard towers and drinking in the breathtaking, unobstructed views that stretch as far as the eye can see.

As the afternoon unfolds, return to the city to delve into its cultural heart with a visit to the Confucius Temple and Imperial College Museum—a revered complex steeped in the legacy of China's ancient scholars and educators. Afterward, meander through the nearby hutongs—the labyrinthine alleyways that are the soul of old Beijing. Wander past traditional courtyard houses, pop into charming little shops, pause for a cup of coffee at a cozy local spot, and soak up the authentic, unhurried rhythm of life in a tight-knit Beijing community.

Your tour guide will collect you at the hotel and drive you to the airport for your flight home. 

For small group tour travelers, a transfer service from your hotel to Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK) or Beijing Daxing International Airport (PKX) can be arranged on request.


P.S.   A group of 20 people, with a minimum of 15 people; can be customized individually.

Included: 【Daily breakfast & 12 lunches】 【13 nights 4-5 star hotels】 【Airport arrival transfer on day 1】 【High speed train tickets Xiaan to Beijing (2nd class)】
【Economy class flight from Shanghai to Zhangjiajie】 【Guided sightseeing in Beijing, Great Wall, Xiaan, Shanghai, Chongqing, Yangtze River】
【Boat ride on Yangtze River】 【Entrance fees as per itinerary】 【English speaking specialist guides at local sights】
【All relevant transfers and transportation in private A/C vehicles】 【24 hours emergency hotline (Multilingual -speaking)】

Not Included: 【International flights and visa】【Airport departure transfer】

Tip for your tour guide: We recommend you allow USD $6 per person per day for your guide and USD $3 per person per day for your driver. Tipping is an entirely personal gesture.