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17 Days Best China Tour with Golden Triangle & Cruise Experience

Hong Kong / Shanghai / Yichang / Yangtze Cruise / Chongqing / Guilin / Yangshuo / Chengdu / Xian / Beijing

Price from request

1. This price is based on a group (2 to 5 travelers) accommodated in 3-star hotel in lower seasons.

2. This price is subject to change according your group members and traveling time. Usually more travelers, lower the price; higher price in high seasons, lower in low seasons.

3. This price is valid until February 28th, 2025.

Places Visited

Hong Kong (1 night), Shanghai (2 nights), Yangtze Cruise (4 nights), Guilin (2 nights), Chengdu (2 nights), Xian (2 nights), Beijing (3 nights)

Highlights of the Trip

  • Embrace the integration of Chinese and Western culture in Hong Kong and Shanghai
  • Appreciate the dynamic landscape and nature in Guilin and Yangshuo
  • Enjoy the carefree lifetime Yangtze Cruise from Yichang to Chongqing
  • Explore the profound Chinese culture in Xian & Beijing
  • Have a close look at the lovely Giant Pandas

Trip Summary

Day 1: Hong Kong Arrival & Hong Kong

Hong Kong, linked by hundred international airlines to easily transfer to feel its energetic cultural blending and fantastic architecture, which is awesome to start your China Tour.

Day 2-3: Fly to Shanghai & Shanghai

Visit the highlighted sites of Hong Kong - Victoria Peak, Stanly Market and Aberdeen Fishing Village before fly to Shanghai. Get to Shanghai with local guide, you can dig out the most attractive aspects of Shanghai for old days and present, like the Yu Garden, The Bund, Shanghai Museum, Shanghai World Financial Center, etc.

Day 4: Fly to Yichang & Board Yangtze River Cruise

See China's future by visiting Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Center and enjoy quiet time in Jade Buddha Temple; fly to Yichang city and transfer to the cruise port to board your Yangtze River cruise.

Day 5-7: Yangtze River Cruise

Enjoy the relaxing leisure life on Yangtze cruise, take shore excursions to Three Gorges Dam Site, Shibaozhai Pagoda, Shennv Stream, appreciate breathtaking scenery along Three Gorges - Qutang Gorge, Wu Gorge and Xiling Gorge.

Day 8-9: Chongqing Disembarkation & Fly to Guilin & Guilin / Yangshuo Visit

Have great fun in Chonqging by visiting Three Gorges Museum and Ciqikou Ancient Town. Fly to Guilin from Chongqing. Visit the finest scenery under heaven in Guilin and experience the Li River Cruise in person, you will be surprised about the nature and picturesque landscape, rather than heard from others.

Day 10-11: Fly to Chengdu & Chengdu Tour

In the hometown of giant pandas, you will have memorable time with the lovely giant pandas in Chengdu Panda Base. To feel the city of leisure, you can sip a cup of tea in Renmin Park as well as absorb the relaxing atmosphere in Wenshu Monastery and Jinli Old Street.

Day 12-13: Fly to Xian & Xian

Visit Jinsha Site Museum before head to Xian. Leaded by our local guide and driver, you can fully explore this ancient city by visiting terracotta warriors , ancient city wall, and Muslim Quarter, and followed by more attractions in Xian downtown.

Day 14-17: High Speed Train to Beijing & Beijing

Enjoy the exploration in Giant Wild Goose Pagoda and Shaanxi History Musuem. Take a high speed train to the capital of China - Beijing from Xian. Explore the classic historical sites like Great Wall of China, Summer Palace, Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square, Temple of Heaven etc.

Full Itinerary Day by day

Day 1 Hong Kong Arrival

Ni Hao! Welcome to Hong Kong, the Pearl of the Oriental with East-meets-West culture! Upon arrival, you’ll be met by our local guide at the arrival hall of Hong Kong Airport / train station and escorted to your hotel by a private, comfortable and non-smoking vehicle. The rest of today is on your own to recover from your long flight or explore the most energetic city in China.

Suggested activities for free time: 1) Take the charming Star Ferry to get right into the heart of Hong Kong and have an up-close look at stunning Victoria Harbor (running time during 06:30~23:30); 2) Explore the lively Kowloo area for a relaxing visit to Nan Lian Garden, Wong Tai Sin or Tsim Sha Tsui; 3) Enjoy “A Symphony of Lights”, the nightly multimedia show involving more than 40 buildings on both sides of Victoria Harbor which lasts about 13 minutes (at 20:00 daily).

Enjoy Breathtaking Skyline of Hong Kong on Star Ferry

Day 2 Hong Kong & Flight to Shanghai (B)

After breakfast, your guide and driver will pick you up at your hotel. Today, you are going to enjoy a half-day sightseeing tour of Hong Kong Island. The first stop is Aberdeen Harbor to step aboard a sampan ride (optional experience at your expenses) for a fascinating close-up gander at the local fishing community. The rustic lifestyles of these people have remained more or less untouched by modernity, which serves up a sharp contrast to the nearby luxury yachts.

Next you’ll pass by the pretty shoreline of Repulse Bay en route to Stanly Market. At Stanley Market, wander freely along the shops that sell everything from Chinese silk to costume jewelry and sportswear, etc.

Later you’ll get on the traditional Peak Tram to ascend to Victoria Peak from 28 meters to 396 meters high, taking you back to Hong Kong in the 19th and 21st century. While standing on the highest point of the peak (552m), you can fully have a panoramic view of the city’s spectacular skyline, Victoria Harbor and the beautiful South China Sea.

After the tour, you’ll be escorted to the airport for a flight to Shanghai (about 2.5hrs). Upon arrival, you’ll be met by our local guide at the arrival hall of Shanghai airport and escorted to your hotel in downtown area. The rest of today is on your own to explore this metropolis.

View Hong Kong Skyline from Victoria Peak

Victoria Peak Tram

Repulse Bay of Hong Kong

Chongqing Chaotianmen Port for Yangtze Cruise

Day 3 Shanghai (B, L)

After breakfast, you’ll take a full day to explore the west-meet-east, modern-blend-tradition culture of Shanghai. First, take an educational trip to Shanghai Museum, one of the Four Greatest Museums in China. From outside, you’ll appreciate the beautiful appearance in the style of “Ding” which symbolizes “a round heaven and a square earth”. While entering into the exhibition rooms, you’ll treat your eyes with large number of collections of historic relics from Bronze, ceramics, painting and calligraphic works to jades, coins, furniture, seals, sculptures, etc.

Then, head to Yu Garden, a typical ancient Chinese garden in Jiangnan area similar to the classical Suzhou Gardens! This garden fully embodies the traditional design of Chinese architecture with jagged pavilions with elegant decorations, glittering pools with roving fish, and pine trees sprouting to the sky, all designed to refresh your mood and spirit. Adjacent to the garden is the Yuyuan Bazaar where you can savor tasteful local snacks and explore elaborate traditional Chinese handicrafts and art works.

Next, drive to Pudong New District to the third tallest building in China - Shanghai World Financial Center. Stand on the 100th floor (474 meters) to have panoramic view of Shanghai downtown, Huangpu River as well as nearby towering buildings. Later, take a wonderful stroll along the Bund with a rich collection of buildings and structures of various architectural styles. Feel the perfect fusion of Chinese and Western cultures while at the same time take in the stunning Shanghai skyline with your own eyes! (Note: If time and energy permits, you can have a nice walk along Nanjing Road to experience the modern atmosphere of Shanghai.)

Optional activities: 1) Take a relaxing Huangpu River night cruise to see the city’s most significant edifices and streets sparkling under the atmospheric cover of darkness (about 50 minutes);  2) Enjoy an entertaining and breathtaking Acrobatic Show at Shanghai Circus World or other acrobatic theatres (usually performs during 19:30~21:00).

The Bund - An Exhibition of International Buildings

Have Panoramic View on the Top of Shanghai World Financial Center

Shanghai Museum on the People's Square

Walk through the Zigzag Bridge of Yu Garden

Day 4 Shanghai & Fly to Yichang (B, L)

Want to deeply know the past, today and future of Shanghai? This morning’s visit to Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Center will show you everything about Shanghai. You will see the amazing transformation of Shanghai that was originally a small fishing village and now surprisingly a super modern world metropolis. Different usages of photography, models and interactive multimedia displays make your visit enjoyable and entertaining. The best features are the old rare photos of landmarks, such as the Bund, Nanjing Road, Yu Garden, during the international settlement, and the large scale model showing the detailed layout of Shanghai.

Then you will be followed a trip to Jade Buddha Temple, a famous Buddhist Temple peacefully situated in the bustling Shanghai downtown. It is famous for the two pieces of Jade Buddha - one is the sitting Jade Buddha of 1.95 meters tall and the other is the smaller reclining Jade Buddha of 0.96 meters tall. Besides appreciating the Jade Buddha, you can have a basic understanding about Chinese Buddhism by visiting the Buddhist halls.

After the tour, be escorted to Shanghai airport for a flight to Yichang (about 2 hours and 20 minutes). Upon arrival, you will be met at the arrival hall of Yichang Sanxia Airport and transferred to Yichang Three Gorges Center Cruise Terminal (or Yichang East Railway Station) and take the tourist bus arranged by the cruise company to shuttle to Maoping Port for embarkation. Your once-in-lifetime Yangtze River cruise starts!

Tips for boarding: (1) All the cruise companies will arrange free transfer service at Yichang Three Gorges Center Cruise Terminal or Yichang East Railway Station during 16:00~21:00. You could choose either one to take the tourist bus to Maoping Port. If you take a train arriving at Yichang East Railway Station, you can take the bus at the exit directly. (2) Please call the ship one day ahead or at least in the morning on the boarding day to have clear idea about which pier you are going to use; (3) The boarding time and departure piers may change based on the ship line, water level, season, weather and other factors. Please pay attention to the important info your travel consultants sent to you before your boarding.

Yichang Maoping Port for Embarkation & Disembarkation

See the Future of Shanghai in Urban Planning Exhibition Center

Jade Buddha Temple

Day 5 Yangtze River Cruise (B, L, D)

In this morning, wake up leisurely and enjoy the gentle sunshine shining over the tranquil Yangtze River. You can either follow the Taichi master to play Taichi on the sundeck or enjoy a cup of coffee to stretch your mood to start your beautiful day. It will be colorful and interesting no matter you stay onboard or go shore excursions at river stops.

Onboard you will enjoy different kinds of cultural activities and entertainment, like attending a Yangtze River History and Culture Lecture to know deeply about the third longest river in the world, taking part in the Captain’s Welcome Party to make new friends, or having great fun at the wonderful evening shows with sing, dance and music.

Also, you will follow a local English-speaking tour guide and make a shore excursion to the world-famous project - Three Gorges Dam. The dam is the largest hydropower station in the world with an annual energy output of 84.7 billion kilowatt-hours. The Three Gorges Dam includes three areas: the dam itself, a hydroelectric, and a system of locks. The height of the Three Gorges Dam is 185 meters (607 ft) above the sea level. The dam is about 2,300 meters (7,546 ft) long and about 115 meters (377 ft) wide. With a water capacity of 39.3 billion cubic meters, the dam will hold a huge reservoir which will efficiently prevent flooding in the middle and lower portions of the Yangtze River. (Optional experience: you can choose to sail through the world’s largest ship lift - Three Gorges Dam Ship Lift to very closely marvel at the huge dam which is a totally fresh and exciting experience for travelers.) 

Optional excursion: Enjoy a shore excursion to Tribe of Three Gorges today for an extra fee. Located on Xiling Gorge near Three Gorges Dam, the Tribe of Three Gorges is like a dreamland garden with breathtaking views - fishing boats along the river side, fishermen using bird to catch fishes, fishing nets hanging along the creek, young couple meeting on the bridge and lots more. You won’t miss the wedding ceremony of Tujia ethnic group.

Three Gorges Dam Ship Lift, the Largest Ship Lift in the World

Take Yangtze River Cruise in Spring

Xiling Gorge

World-famous Three Gorges Dam

Day 6 Yangtze River Cruise (B, L, D)

Today you will continue sailing through the spectacular Three Gorges! Follow the guide’s live interpretation and soak up the breathtaking gorge scenery passing by as you drift through Xiling Gorge, Wu Gorge and Qutang Gorge respectively.

On this day, take an enjoyable shore excursion to Shennv Stream (Goddess Stream), a tributary of the Yangtze River in Wushan County. You will be switched to a smaller boat to sail down this primitive stream running in a narrow side gorge where you will have close-up views of steep mountains and hanging coffins high on the cliffs as well as hear some of the local history. Besides, you will be entertained with local music and dance offered by the Tujia ethnic group. (Please note: some cruise ships will make an excursion to Shennong Stream which offers the similar experience at Shennv Stream.)

Optional excursion: Enjoy a shore excursion to White Emperor City today with an extra fee. Located at the entrance of Qutang Gorge, this excursions gives you the chance to know Romance of the Three Kingdoms and offers the best pot to appreciate the magnificent “Kui Gate”.

Shennv Stream with Primitive Gorge Scenery

Magnificent Qutang Gorge

Breathtaking Wu Gorge Scenery

Day 7 Yangtze River Cruise (B, L, D)

In this morning, you will make a shore excursion to Shibaozhai Pagoda, a pearl of Yangtze River in Zhongxian County. Reputed as one of the eight extraordinary architectures in the world, this 12-story, 16th century red wooden pagoda leans against the side of the rocky and craggy hill about 200 meters tall. Climbing up to the top of Shibaozhai, you can not only visit the Buddhist temples and halls but also have panoramic view of Yangtze River. (Please note: Comfortable shoes are highly recommended since there will be many stairs to climb up the pagoda.)

Optional excursion: Have a shore excursion to Fengdu Ghost City today with an extra fee. Called “the Homeland of Divine Comedy in China”, it consists of buildings, structures, dioramas and statues related to the afterlife in hell. Entering this “City of Ghosts”, you will know many mysterious stories about underworld and cruel tortures and different kinds of devils and Chinese demons. (Please note: the visit to Fengdu Ghost City requires much walking and comfortable shoes highly recommended!)

In this evening, enjoy the well-prepared Captain’s Farewell Party with all your mates onboard and have a pleasant dinner together. After the banquet, take part in the cabaret show to enjoy your last night.

Breathtaking Autumn Scenery of Yangtze Gorge

Shibaozhai Pagoda, a Pearl of Yangtze River

Fengdu Ghost City

Day 8 Yangtze Cruise to Chongqing & Flight to Guilin (B, L)

In this morning, your ship will arrive at Chongqing Chaotianmen Port around 09:00 where you will go through a check-out procedure and disembark.Upon arrival, your guide and driver will pick you up at the port and escort you to Chongqing downtown area for today's sightseeing.

First drive to Three Gorges Museum which sits opposite to People’s Assembly Hall. Entering into this large and modern museum, you’ll have a deep understanding about the geography of Yangtze River, the changes of Three Gorges and the world-famous project Three Gorges Dam; know the history of ancient Ba and Yu, as well as learn about every aspect of Chongqing City in 20th century.

Next will be an interesting visit to the thousand-year-old Ciqikou Ancient Town which was a famous business harbor in ancient time. Reputed as “Little Chongqing”, Ciqikou is a heaven-like place where you can leisurely wander along the bustling old streets with Ming and Qing architectures standing by, visit the featured shops, taste delicate local snacks, or enjoy a cup of at the old teahouse.

After the tour, you'll be taken to Chongqing Jiangbei Airport for a flight to Guilin (about 1.5hrs). Upon arrival, you will be met by local tour guide at Guilin Liangjiang Airport, then be escorted to your hotel in Guilin City.

Ciqikou Old Town

Three Gorges Museum

Chongqing Chaotianmen Dock

Day 9 Guilin Li River Cruise & Yangshuo Town (B, L)

“East or West, Guilin’s landscape is the best”. After breakfast, you’ll begin today’s sightseeing by taking the 84-kilometer relaxing Li River cruise to Yangshuo County. Cruising on the Li River, you’ll be like sailing along a hundred-mile scroll with numerous green mountains, cliffs, waterfalls, oases, shoals as well as idyllic countryside views. You won’t miss the gorgeous karst scenery depicted at the back of the new edition 20 Yuan banknote.

After the 4-hour cruise, you’ll disembark in Yangshuo Town. Check in your hotel and take a short break. Then, immerse yourself into the stunning countryside views and relaxing atmosphere and be enthralled by the patches of paddy fields nestling under green hills and near the mirror-like river, with farmers cultivating the soil with their water buffalos.

Next will be a wonderful stroll along the oldest street in Yangshuo - West Street with a history of more than 1400 years. On this 800-meter-long “Foreigner’s Street”, you’ll experience the perfect collision of Chinese and Western culture as well as taste some delicious local snacks and enjoy the cool atmosphere in a bar if you like.

Optional activity: In this evening, enjoy a spectacular open-air show “Impression Sanjie Liu” directed by the famous director – Zhang Yimou in a vast amphitheater with the stage being the river and mountains in front of you (usually performs for an hour between around 19:45 and 22:20).

Idyllic Countryside Scenery in Yangshuo County

Beautiful Li River Landscape

Day 10 Yangshuo - Guilin & Flight to Chengdu (B, L)

In the morning, you’ll be transferred back to Guilin in a comfortable vehicle (about 1.5~2hrs). Then, take a trip to visit the symbol of Guilin - Elephant Trunk Hill. It is named after its unique shape of a giant elephant stretching its trunk to Li River and boozing. You’ll spend some time appreciating the green mountains, clear water, fantastic caves and beautiful rocks in this park.

Next will be a visit to Reed Flute Cave, the Art Palace of Nature! Getting into the majestic underground cave, you’ll see a large number of stalactites, stalagmites and other rock formations as well as enjoy the light and sound show.

After the tour, your guide and driver will escort you the airport for your flight to Chengdu (about 1hr and 45mins). Upon arrival, you’ll be met by our local guide at the arrival hall of Chengdu Shuangliu Airport and escorted to your hotel in downtown area. The rest of today is on your own to explore this leisure city.

Optional activity: Enjoy the typical Sichuan cuisine (like Hot Pot) for dinner in a local restaurant.

Reed Flute Cave, the Art Palace of Nature

Sichuan Local Cuisine - Hotpot

The Famous Elephant Trunk Hill

Day 11 Chengdu (B, L)

After breakfast, your guide and driver will pick you up at your hotel. First, drive about 15km to Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding (simply Chengdu Panda Base). This base is not only the most important panda scientific research center in the world, but also the home for more than 100 Giant Pandas. Walk through the verdant bamboo-framed path, gain fascinating insight into the progression of baby pandas to young adult pandas to adult pandas, and admire the delicate newborns in a special infant panda area. Continue to enrich your memory to observe the adolescent pandas between the age of one and five eating bamboos, playing with each other, tumbling and climbing trees. Listen to the importance of this vital maturity period and capture photographs of these enchanting and endangered creatures as they relax in their natural environment.

After the memorable panda visit, get to the largest and best-preserved Buddhist monastery - Wenshu Monastery located in bustling downtown Chengdu. Walking in the quiet spiritual temple, you’ll marvel at the exquisite Buddhist architectures and precious Buddhist statues, scriptures and relics.

Later, pay a visit to Renmin Park to truly feel the essence of leisurely pace and lifestyle of Chengdu. Sit down, order a pot of fragrant Chinese tea, have a casual chat with your friends in a-hundred-year-old teahouse, watch local indulging themselves in different kinds of folk activities, like napping, enjoy special ear cleaning, playing Mahjong, dancing and doing water calligraphy! Next will be an impressive trip to the famous Jinli Old Street, a lively paradise full of delicious local snacks, delicate artifacts, interesting folk shows and other activities. Time will steal away as you explore along the old streets!

Optional activity: In this evening, watch Sichuan Opera and be entertained by Sichuan performing arts using stick puppets, face masks, fire spitting, rolling lights, folk music, acrobatic and dance in Shufeng Yayun Teahouse (usually performs during 20:00~21:30).

See Adorable Pandas in Chengdu Panda Base

Enjoy some leisure moment in Renmin Park

Explore Three Kingdom Culture in Jinli Old Street

Worship in Wenshu Monastery

Day 12 Chengdu & Flight to Xian (B, L)

Want to know the greatest archaeological discovery in China at the beginning of the 21st century? This morning tour will take you to visit Jinsha Site Museum with a history dating back to 12th to 7th century B.C.(approximately 2900 - 3200 years ago). Entering into the museum, you’ll explore a great variety of artifacts including more than 5,000 articles of gold, bronze, jade, stone, ivory and lacquered wood as well as millions of pottery potsherds. Of course, you won’t miss the symbol of Chengdu “Sun and Immortal Bird” gold ornament which expresses people’s respect to sun as well as bird and their pursuit to harmonious life and bright future.

After the tour, you'll be taken to Chengdu Shuangliu Airport for a flight to Xian (about 1.5hrs). Upon arrival, you will met by our local guide at the arrival hall of Xian Xianyang Airport and escorted your hotel in Xian downtown. The rest of today is free on your own to explore the city with more than 3,000 years.

The Gold Sun and Bird in Jiasha Site Museum

Day 13 Xian (B, L)

In this morning, drive about 40km to the Eighth Wonder of the World - Terracotta Warriors and Horses which was founded in 1974 by local farmers and later listed as UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is a collection of terracotta sculptures depicting the armies of Qin Shi Huang, the first Emperor of China. Get into the living historical classroom to witness one of the greatest archaeological discoveries in the world. Visit the three pits containing more than 8,000 soldiers, 130 chariots with 520 horses and 150 cavalry horses and know the history of Qin Dynasty (221-207BC), the emperors and the funerary art.

Next, drive back to Xian downtown for some leisure time on the Ancient City Wall, the largest and best-preserved existing ancient city wall in China. This rectangular city wall is 13.75km in length, 12m in height and 15-18m in width which takes about 4 hours’ walking for the circuit. Standing on the ancient wall, you can enjoy panoramic view of Xian City. Then, you’ll be followed a trip to Muslim Quarter where you can taste different local food and snacks and explore Muslim culture.

Optional activities: 1) Take a relaxing cycling trip on the Ancient City Wall (about 2 hours); 2) Enjoy a brilliant Tang Palace Dance Show (usually from 20:00 to 21:00) after a hearty dumpling dinner.

Mighty Terracotta Warriors

Walk along Muslim Quarter to Taste Some Snacks

Relaxing Cycling on Xian Ancient City Wall

Day 14 Xian & High Speed Train to Beijing (B, L)

After breakfast, your guide and driver will pick you up at your hotel. First, you’ll head to Da Cien Temple with a history of 1350 years. The Giant Wild Goose Pagoda with seven-story at a height of 64.5 meters is the famous building in the temple. This pagoda was built by the famous Buddhist master Xuan Zang (the prototype character for Tang Seng in the famous Chinese novel “Journey to the West”) to preserve precious Buddhist relics, scriptures and figures of Buddha he bought back from India during the early Tang Dynasty. (Please note: It charges extra 30 Yuan to visit or climb up the Giant Wild Goose Pagoda.)

Next, take an educational trip to Shaanxi History Museum with more than 370,000 pieces of cultural relics. Ramble in the modern exhibition halls to appreciate the relics such as bronzes, porcelains, terracotta armies, paintings, murals, currencies dating back from the Zhou to the Tang Dynasty period (1100BC to 907AD).

After the tour, you’ll be escorted to Xian North Railway Station for a high speed train to Beijing (about 5hrs). The local guide will pick you up at Beijing West Railway Station and escort you to your hotel. The rest of today is on your own to explore this ever-changing megacity.

Semulative Terracotta Warriors and Horses in Shaanxi History Museum

The Seven-story Giant Wild Goose Pagoda

Day 15 Beijing (B, L)

After breakfast, your guide and driver will pick you up at your hotel. Today, you’ll deeply explore the rich history and culture of imperial Beijing. Enjoy a brief visit to the most important landmark - Tian’anmen Square where Chairman Mao announced the establishment of the People’s Republic of China. The square is surrounded by grand buildings including the Great Hall of the People, Chairman Mao Memorial Hall and the Monument to the People’s Martyrs and the Forbidden City.

Walking through the Tian’anmen, you’ll visit one of the world’s five most important palaces - the Forbidden City, the Chinese imperial palace from the Ming Dynasty to the end of Qing Dynasty (1420 to 1912) with 24 emperors lived. The complex is the largest collection of preserved ancient wooden structures in the world which consists of 980 buildings with 9,999 rooms. You’ll follow the central axis to visit Meridian Gate, Gate of Supreme Harmony, Hall of Supreme, Hall of Middle Harmony, Hall of Preserving Harmony and other gates, halls and gardens.

After lunch, you’ll drive to the western outskirts of Beijing to Summer Palace, the largest and best-preserved royal garden in China. Listed as World Heritage Site, Summer Palace is a vast ensemble of lakes, pavilions, halls, temples, gardens and bridges. Spend some enjoyable time strolling around Longevity Hill, Kunming Lake and Long Corridor and feast your eyes with beautiful landscape.

Optional activities: 1) In the evening, you can watch a fascinating Kung Fu Show in the Red Theater (Hong Ju Chang) which usually starts at 19:30; 2) Enjoy the classic Beijing Opera at Liyuan Theater during 19:30~21:00.

The Landmark of Beijing - Tian'anmen Square

Hall of Supreme - Typical Architecture of Forbidden City

Longevity Hill & Kunming Lake of Summer Palace

Day 16 Beijing (B, L)

In this morning, drive about 70 kilometers to the Seven Wonders of the World - the Great Wall. Visit the Mutianyu section, the longest but less crowded great wall in China. Mutianyu Great Wall is regarded as the “Essence of Great Wall of Ming Dynasty” for its imposing and very solid characters. You can take a cable car or an enjoyable 40-minute walk to set your feet on the historic great wall. Climbing up its rising towers, you’ll be impressed by the breathtaking scenery with abundant vegetation and know the profound culture of great wall and wisdom of ancient Chinese people.

After the exciting tour, continue your trip to Ding Tomb, one of the tombs at the Thirteen Tombs of Ming Dynasty. Being the only Ming tomb to have been excavated, Ding Tomb is for Wanli Emperor and his two empresses. Walk through the Sacred Way and pass the doorways to visit the two exhibition rooms and Underground Palace.

Then, drive back to Beijing City and take a short stop at the Beijing Olympic Village to view the famous Bird’s Nest and Water Cube from the outside.

Optional activity: In this evening, treat yourself a hearty dinner at Quan Ju De to taste the famous Peking Roast Duck.

Mutianyu Great Wall with Verdant Vegetation in Summer

Bird’s Nest in Summer

Panoramic View of Ding Tomb

Day 17 Beijing & Beijing Departure (B)

After breakfast, your guide and driver will take you to Temple of Heaven, an imperial complex visited by the emperors of Ming and Qing dynasties for annual ceremonies of prayer to Heaven for good harvest. Know the symbolism of “Heaven” and “Earth” and explore the Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests, the Imperial Vault of Heaven and the Circular Mound Altar. Enjoy the vivid life by visiting the surrounding park to see locals playing Taichi, flying kite, dancing, writing water calligraphy, and others.

Next, get back to the traditional part of Beijing to hop on a rickshaw to explore Beijing Hutongs and the culture of quadrangle dwellings. Shuttle among different Hutongs to get a feel of the old Beijing lifestyle, pass various antique shops and different boutiques and truly feel the historical change of Beijing.

After the tour, your guide will escort you the airport for your flight to next destination or home.

Explore Freely along Beijing Old Hutongs

Full View of Temple of Heaven

Recommended Add-on Options

+ 3 more days to immerse in the spiritual city on the Himalaya - Lhasa

Deep in the spectacular Himalayan Mountains, Lhasa is a jewel of a destination. Potala Palace, the former residence of the Dalai Lama, is a major attraction, but you’ll also find numerous Tibetan Buddhist sites like Jokhang Temple, Norbulingka Park, Sera Monastery, Drepung Monastery where you’ll get touched by the devoted pilgrimage culture of local Tibetan people...

Spectacular Buddhism Debating in Sera Monastery

Quotation Includes:

  • Entrance fees of the scenic spots as listed in the itinerary.
  • Meals as specified in the itinerary.(Exceptions: If the western breakfast is not available in some of the hotels, breakfast would be either Chinese breakfast or Chinese and western breakfast.)
  • Hotels: Hotel Based on two persons sharing one room with twin beds or a king size bed; All hotels as listed in the above itinerary serve daily western or Chinese breakfast; Please note double bed room is on request basis which is subject to Hotel's availability and re-confirmation upon check-in.
    Service, room facilities and breakfast might be not up to standard in some remote areas.
  • Transportation: Flights or train as listed in the itinerary.
  • Sightseeing As listed in the Itinerary will be escorted with English-speaking guide;
  • Service of local guide and van is for a maximum of 8 hours during the full day individual tour packages.

    * Please note that our English-speaking guide and driver provided for you in each city or area will not fly with you from one city to another.

  • Private Transfers between airports, hotels and scenic spots while sightseeing in each city or area by private air-conditioned vehicle with driver and English-speaking guide as listed in the itinerary.
  • Service Charge (the planning, handling, operational and communication charges) & Government Taxes.
  • Luggage Transfers between airports, trains and hotels.

Price excludes:

  • Flights (Economy class) not as listed in the itinerary.
  • Accommodation not as listed in the itinerary.
  • Visa Fees: Please make sure that you have got your valid passport and visa before your entry to China. We can send you a free official invitation letter to assist you in obtaining your visa after the reservation deposit is received.
  • Sightseeing not listed in the itinerary.
  • Meals not listed in the itinerary.
  • Personal expenses such as room service, internet charge, laundry, drink, fax, telephone call, optional activities, etc.
  • Gratuities, tips to guides, drivers, bellboys, etc.
  • Excess Baggage Charges.
  • Life Tourist insurance. Please kindly note that the full coverage travel insurance from your country of origin should be purchased in advance on your own.
  • Optional activities.

Essential China Travel Information & Service

To help you have a further understanding of your tour, we provide some essential travel information like your tour guides, drivers, private cars/vans, accommodations and meals that you could know more about how is your China Yangtze cruise tour going. All the experience will be vivid and memorable in any time in any destination.

Your Private Tour Guide

China Tour Guide

The tour guides in all destinations are qualified, knowledgeable, enthusiastic and responsible!

All of our guides in every destination are locals. They will be greeted you punctually upon arrival at airport, train stations or cruise ports. And escort you to your hotel and tourist attractions and make you have full understanding about the local life, scenic spots as well as show you the fun places for more featured activities and things to do according to your time and interests.

“All our guides, especially those who we had a chance to spend more time with (Guilin, Chengdu, Lijiang, Zhangjiajie) were great. Always very accommodating, punctual and attentive.” - Review from Zane, Canada

Your Private Driver & Car

China Tour Driver & Car

Taking our private transportation will make you comfortable, relaxed and worry free!

All our drivers are licensed with many years’ driving experience. They are always polite, friendly and helpful, glad to offer more service you may need during the transfer. Our vehicles are air-conditioned, non-smoking, clean and expertly maintained. We use different types of cars/vans to guarantee your comfort. Besides, there is need to worry about your luggage for we use vehicles with extra space for your luggage.

"With respect to the drivers, we can state that they are excellent drivers and very friendly. They are pleasant with smiling face and helpful too." - Review from Pedro Corro‚ USA

Comfortable & Homelike Hotel

China Tour Accommodation

In each destination, we guarantee you a comfortable stay!

The hotels we choose are based with star rating, great location, well-pointed facilities and high quality service and guests’ feedbacks. Choices are a lot and you could decide where to stay on your own. When taking a Yangtze River cruise, you are guaranteed a comfortable cabin or suite with private balconies to enjoy breathtaking scenery.

“All the hotels were comfortable and in good locations. The food was generally good with a wide choice of both western and Chinese choices for breakfast. The room sizes even with the extra bed for Jessica were also fine.” - Review from McHale, USA

Dining, Meal & Local Food

China Tour Dining & Food

On Yangtze River cruise, you are offered three meals (usually buffet with western and Chinese dishes) each day. In other cities of China, breakfast and lunch usually are included in your tour packages. You’ll dine in local restaurants, follow local customs and enjoy local dishes. The food quality and dining environment will suit for your taste. If you have any suggestions or special requirements (vegetarian or food allergies), just let your travel consultants and guides know. They will arrange the suitable food and restaurants for you. Recommended evening dining options are: Peking Roast Duck in Beijing, Dumpling Dinner in Xian, and Hot Pot in Chengdu etc.

“We had very good breakfasts in all the hotels and were given a substantial lunch every day.” - Review from John, United Kingdom

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If you have some ideas or suggestions for this tour, please feel free to talk with our professional, experienced and enthusiastic travel consultants now.

Talk with Yangtze Cruise Experts

They’ll help you modify the China Yangtze cruise tour and itinerary from time to time until you are totally satisfied.

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What travelers said about Yangtze cruise tour

C

CRYSTAL
(America)

Hi Tracy, My husband and I had a great time in Yunnan. We enjoyed every place we visited and the food we tried. Thank...
Reviewed on March 4, 2024
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Not easy to find the right cruise ship/itinerary for you? Please contact one of our Yangtze cruise specialists to save your time and money. Click the right button to send an online inquiry and we will get back to you within 0.5~23.5 hours.

Your can rely on our expert knowledge and endless enthusiasm!

Why Cruise with yangtze-river-cruises.com

The Local Cruise Agency

Located in Chongqing, the significant Yangtze pier, we are the leading local travel agency for traveling to the Yangtze River and China.

Ultra-Low Prices

Specialized in the Yangtze River cruise booking for several years, we have great relationships with all ship companies.

24/7 Customer Care

With one-on-one service, our cruise experts provide 24-hour support and are always patient and friendly to make your travel as easy as possible.