17 Days Best China Tour with Golden Triangle & Cruise Experience
Hong Kong / Shanghai / Yichang / Yangtze Cruise / Chongqing / Guilin / Yangshuo / Chengdu / Xian / Beijing

1. The price is based on a group of 2 adult travelers sharing one double-bed room in comfortable-class hotel(s) in tourist off-seasons.
2. The price is subject to change according to your group size, traveling seasons, hotel class, changes of activities, possible fluctuation of currency exchange rate, etc.
3. The price is valid to February 28th, 2026.
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 Tower, 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).
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.
Day 3 Shanghai (B, L)
After breakfast, enjoy your full-day exploration of the Magic Shanghai with west-meet-east, modern-blend-tradition culture. Let's start with Shanghai Museum, one of the Four Greatest Museums in China. Admire its stunning "Ding"-style exterior which symbolizes “a round heaven and a square earth”. Enter to treat your eyes with an extensive collection of international-standard historical relics from over 5,000 years ago to the Qing Dynasty, including bronzes, ceramics, paintings, jades, coins, furniture, seals, sculptures, etc. (An Audio Explanation Device will be prepared for your better understanding of the history and technology.)
Next, have an interesting walk at Yu Garden, a typical ancient Chinese garden in Jiangnan area similar to the classical Suzhou Gardens! This garden boasts 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 spirit. Adjacent to the garden is the Yuyuan Bazaar where you can savor local snacks and explore exquisite traditional handicrafts and artworks.
Continue to the No.1 tallest building in China - Shanghai Tower in Pudong New District. Ascend to the 118th floor (546 meters) for a breathtaking panoramic view of Shanghai's downtown, the Huangpu River, and neighboring skyscrapers. Later, go to Nanjing Road, another landmark of Shanghai, a shopping paradise as well as a great place for a nice walk to feel the modern vibes of Shanghai. Finally, take a delight stroll along The Bund with a rich array of buildings of diverse architectural styles. Soak in the perfect fusion of Chinese and Western cultures while appreciating the stunning Shanghai skyline!
Optional activities: 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).
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.
Day 5 Yangtze River Cruise (B, L, D)
Good morning! Wake up leisurely and enjoy the gentle sunshine over the tranquil Yangtze. You can either follow the Taichi master to play Taichi or enjoy a cup of coffee to start a beautiful day!
Enjoy various entertainment onboard, like attending a Yangtze River History and Culture Lecture, enjoying seasonal themed activities, meeting new friends at the Captain's Welcome Party, having fun at the wonderful evening show, etc.
Today, you will take the arranged tourist bus to visit the global famous Three Gorges Dam. It is the largest hydropower station in the world, with an annual energy output of 84.7 billion kilowatt-hours. 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, it can hold a huge reservoir to efficiently prevent flooding in the middle and lower reaches of the Yangtze. Take your time to appreciate this great project from different angles and learn more at the project museum.
After dinner, take part in the Captain’s Welcome Party to make new friends and enjoy the hospitable welcome from the captain and all the cruise team. Enjoy your joyous party and have a sound sleep!
Optional Experience: 1) Three Gorges Dam Ship Lift: Take a tourist boat to sail through this world’s largest ship lift with an elevation of about 113 meters (370 ft), which is totally fresh and exciting! (with an extra fee)
2) Tribe of Three Gorges: It is like a dreamland and extremely favored by foreign travelers. Get close to the particularly tranquil and primitive sightseeing of villages on water, on mountain and off brook with fine exploration of interesting folk custom of Tujia minority people. You won’t miss their wedding ceremony part. (with an extra fee)
Day 6 Yangtze River Cruise (B, L, D)
Today, you'll sail through the spectacular Three Gorges! Soak up the breathtaking gorge scenery as you drift through Qutang Gorge, Wu Gorge and Xiling Gorge respectively.
You'll switch to a smaller boat to take an enjoyable shore excursion to Shennv Stream (Goddess Stream), a tributary of the Yangtze River. Sail down this primitive stream to closely marvel at steep mountains and hanging coffins high on the cliffs, hear local history, and appreciate featured dance and music by Tujia ethnic people!
After dinner, you can either join in the cruise night shows for further happiness, have a relaxing drink or enjoy the river breeze quietly Good night!
Optional Excursion to White Emperor City: This cultural and historic site at the entrance of Qutang Gorge tells the touching stories of the “Romance of the Three Kingdoms” and is the best spot to appreciate the magnificent “Kui Gate” on the 10 RMB note! (with an extra fee)
Day 7 Yangtze River Cruise (B, L, D)
This morning, start your fresh day by a healthy Taichi practice on the Sun Deck or a cup of refreshing early bird coffee! Appreciate the rural sightseeing of the counties and countryside along the Yangtze River bank
You will go to visit Fengdu Ghost City onshore, which is about 2,000 years old and called “the Homeland of Divine Comedy in China”. In this “City of Ghosts”, you will see a series of temples, shrines, palaces, pavilions, and more traditional styled architecture complex. The colorful statues and story scenes of afterlife in hell displayed show the underworld, cruel tortures, different kinds of devils, Chinese demons and the traditional Chinese belief: pure spirits would be rewarded, and sinful ones would be subject to severe punishments. (Please note: Fengdu Ghost City visit requires much walking and comfortable shoes are highly recommended!)
At evening, enjoy the well-prepared Captain’s Farewell Party with all your mates onboard and have a whale of time of the last night onboard!
Day 8 Yangtze Cruise to Chongqing & High-speed Train to Guilin (B, L)
Welcome to Chongqing, the famous Mountain City in China! This morning, your ship will arrive at Chongqing Chaotianmen Port around 09:00. After breakfast, go through the check-out procedure and disembark. Upon arrival, your guide and driver will pick you up at the port and escort you to visit the must-see Hongya Cave to appreciate its layers of featured Ba and Shu regional wooden tilted houses rising up to 11 storeys against the hill.
Then, take Line 2 of Chongqing Rail Transit from Huanghuayuan Station to Liziba Station for 15-minute with cityscapes. Get off and watch a train passing through a 19-storey apartment, unique to mountainous Chongqing!
After the tour, be escorted to the railway station for your bullet train to Guilin! Upon arrival, the local guide will pick you up at the arrival hall in Guilin West railway station and escort you to your hotel in downtown for check in. Have a good sleep!
Day 9 Guilin Li River Cruise & Yangshuo Town (B, L)
As the Chinese textbook says, "Guilin’s landscape is the best under heaven." Today, start your scenic cruise along the Li River from Mopanshan Pier to Yangshuo, spanning 84 kilometers. The breathtaking vistas resemble an endless Chinese scroll, featuring winding river, verdant limestone karst mountains, fascinating countryside views, the amazing A Painting of Nine Horses, and iconic scenery on the 20 RMB note. (Please note: Lunch onboard is served by the cruise with simple local cuisine. You can take some snacks before boarding.)
After 4 hours’ cruise, arrive in Yangshuo and check into your hotel. After a short break, immerse yourself in the charming sightseeing and ideal countryside ease of Yulong River. Let all the refreshing scenes delight your eyes and souls to the utmost, the Karst hills dotted around, chattering stream, rippling mountain reflections, swaying flora, patches of vivid crops, gentle breeze... Choose from biking, hiking, bamboo rafting, scooter or riding to explore the fun and beauty there. (Please tell your likes to your travel consultants before booking the tour, as final prices will vary by activity.)
Biking (some physically demanding & view by the river) - Ride to enjoy the river view and the real fields (route: Yangshuo - Jima - Shuiedi Dock - Gongnong Bridge - West Street; for 1.5-2 hours).
Bamboo Rafting (relaxing and interesting & view on the river) - Have fun with the classic bamboo rafting (Route A: Shuiedi Dock - Gongnong Bridge for 40-50 minutes; Route B: Jima Dock - Gongnong Bridge for 1.5 hours) to see the more serene view like pieces of traditional Chinese landscape ink paintings.
Driving (most leisurable and comfortable & view on the road) - Sit leisurely on the car and travel from Jima to Gongnong Bridge to appreciate the lovely countryside view (about 0.5 hour). You can get off and on anywhere on the middle way to explore more about your interested place.
Finally, have a leisure walk on West Street where the western and Chinese culture coexist harmoniously here. Whether you want to enjoy a drink in a bar, taste local food, or just soak in the relaxing atmosphere, you get it there.
Note: according to the regulations of Yulong River Tourism, children less than 1 meter high and elders over 70 years old are not allowed to take the bamboo rafting.
Optional Activity: Watch the splendid evening performance of Impression Liu Sanjie with the Li River as the stage, which was directed by famous director - Zhang Yimou (usually performs for an hour between around 19:45 and 22:20).
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.
Day 11 Chengdu (B, L)
After breakfast, your guide and driver will pick you up at your hotel for a 15-km drive to Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding (simply Chengdu Panda Base). This world's most important panda scientific research center is home for over 100 giant pandas. Walk through the verdant bamboo-lined paths, witness the fascinating progression of pandas from baby to adult, watch the adolescent pandas aged 1-5, eating, playing, tumbling and climbing. If lucky, you may be able to see the precious panda babies in the nursery rooms. Don't miss the informative Panda Museum for more scientific facts about Giant Pandas.
After the memorable panda visit, head to Wenshu Monastery, a serene Buddhist temple in the bustling downtown of Chengdu. Walk in the spiritual temple and marvel at the exquisite Buddhist architectures, Buddhist statues, scriptures, and relics. Adjacent is (Wenshufang), a small bazaar for a leisure stroll to experience local market and living style.
Next, visit Renmin Park to feel the famed laid-back lifestyle of Chengdu. Sip a cup of Chinese tea in a century-old teahouse, chat with friends, watch locals indulging in different folk activities, like napping, ear cleaning, Mahjong, dancing, water calligraphy, etc.! Then, discover the famous Jinli Old Street, a vibrant hub full of local snacks, delicate artifacts, folk shows and other activities. Time will fly as you explore along the ancient streets!
Optional activity: 1) enjoy a delicious dinner of Sichuan cuisine or hotpot at a local restaurant; 2) watch Sichuan Opera at Shufeng Yayun Teahouse, featuring stick puppets, face changing, fire spitting, rolling lights, folk music, acrobatic and dance (usually during 20:00~21:30).
Day 12 Chengdu & High-speed Train 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 East Railway Station for a high-speed train to Xian (about 3.5-4hrs). Upon arrival, you will met by our local guide at the arrival hall of Xian North Railway Station 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.
Day 13 Xian (B, L)
Good morning! After breakfast, you'll be escorted about 40km to marvel at the Eighth Wonder of the World - Terracotta Warriors and Horses which was found in 1974 by local farmers and later listed as a 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.
After lunch, return to Xian to visit the 1,350-year-old Da Cien Temple, renowned for Buddhist sutra translations during the Tang Dynasty. The Giant Wild Goose Pagoda with seven stories at a height of 64.5 meters is the famous building there. 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. (Note: Please note: It charges extra 30 Yuan to climb up the Giant Wild Goose Pagoda.)
In the evening, stroll through the Grand Tang Dynasty Ever Bright City, where nightscape illuminates and makes you recall the prosperous Tang Dynasty. A visit here at night offers a marvelous neon scene, quite different from daytime.
Optional activities: 1) Try on Hanfu, the traditional clothing of the Han Chinese in the ancient periods, and take some beautiful photos! 2) Enjoy the wonderful Tang Palace Dance Show (usually from 8pm to 9pm).
Day 14 Xian & High Speed Train to Beijing (B, L)
After breakfast, be transferred to visit the Small Wild Goose Pagoda, a tranquil structure smaller and 55 years younger than its “sister” - the Giant Wild Goose Pagoda. Built during 707 to 709 AD, this 43.4-meter-tall, 13-tierd (originally 15) pagoda resembles a tall rectangular pyramid. Remarkably, the pagoda has survived nearly 70 earthquakes but stands firm today. Walk around to appreciate its beautiful design and take some fantastic photos. Then, walk several minutes to the nearby Xian Museum, boasting over 130,000 pieces of jade relics, seals, paintings, porcelains, Buddhist statues, stone carvings and more for your admiration.
Next, head back to downtown Xian to discover 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 needs about 4 hours' walk for a full circuit. Just like the merchants and envoys on the Silk Road thousands of years ago, you'll enter the interior of the city walls through the Hanguang Gate and visit a mini museum to see the real Tang Dynasty city wall ruins from over 1400 years ago. After that, get up to the wall to have a leisure stroll and enjoy a panoramic view of Xian. Then, continue to the Muslim Quarter, where you can taste different local snacks and explore the harmonious local culture.
After the visit, be sent to the railway station for your bullet train to Beijing (about 5hrs). Upon arrival, your local guide and driver will pick you up at the arrival hall of the railway station in Beijing and escort you to your hotel in downtown for check-in.
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. First, enjoy a brief visit to the most important landmark - Tiananmen 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.
Walk through the Tiananmen to 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 around 10,000 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.
Continue to take a short walk to Jingshan Park, where you can ascend to its summit for a panoramic view of the Forbidden City, the serene landscapes of Beihai Park, Shichahai Lake, and Drum Tower. For unforgettable photos, make your way to one of the palace's corner towers, a favorite spot among photography enthusiasts.
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 the 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.
After the visit, be escorted back to your hotel.
Optional evening activities: 1) Watch a wonderful acrobatic performance at the Chaoyang Theater; 2) Enjoy the classic Chinese art performance of Beijing Opera at Liyuan Theater.
Day 16 Beijing (B, L)
After breakfast, be transferred about 70km (1.5 hours) to witness Mutianyu Great Wall, a stunning, less-frequented segment of this World Wonder and the “longest great wall in China” so far. Tourists can see its original appearance and enjoy the real ancient culture of great wall. Also, spectacular natural scenery in Mutianyu Great Wall always impresses visitors here for its abundant vegetation. Let's begin your ascent via a cozy enclosed cable car to No. 14 Watchtower, which is your starting point to an unforgettable adventure. Trek westward along the wall, passing majestic watchtowers and soaking in impressive panoramic views. The trail is moderate, family-friendly and suitable for all fitness levels. For the daring, climb the Great Man Slope to No. 20 Watchtower, the highest point offering breathtaking vistas. After the exploration, walk back to No. 14 Watchtower and descend comfortably by the enclosed cable car.
Optional Toboggan Experience: For an extra thrill at Mutianyu, consider riding the toboggan (about 2~3mins) or the chairlift cable car to descend the Great Wall, both accessable at No. 6 Watchtower. Please note that there might be a queue, especially during peak tourist seasons like Chinese holidays.
Continue your trip to Sacred Way, a 7-kilometer-long passage leading to the Imperial Tombs of 13 Emperors of Ming Dynasty. The Emperor, deemed the Son of the Heaven, descended from Heaven to his country through this Sacred Way, would eventually return via this same path. Take a walk through the largest archway in China and the Great Palace Gate, where you’ll encounter the magnificent stone guard of 12 sets of mythical animals and 12 officials. After that, be sent back to Beijing and make a brief stop at the Beijing Olympic Village to admire the renowned Bird’s Nest and Water Cube from the outside.
After the visit, be escorted back to your hotel.
Optional dinner experience: 1) treat yourself a great dinner to taste the world-famous Peking Roasted Duck, the must-try specialty of Beijing known for its crispy skin and juicy, flavorful meat.
Day 17 Beijing & Beijing Departure (B)
After breakfast, your guide and driver will take you to visit the Temple of Heaven, an imperial complex visited by the emperors of the Ming and Qing dynasties for annual ceremonies of prayer to Heaven for good harvest. Learn about 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. You'll also visit a local family's home in the Hutongs, offering a glimpse into everyday life.
After the tour, be escorted to the airport / railway station for your flight / train to your next destination or home. Tour ends!
1. This price is for one person, based on a group of 2 adults sharing one standard double-bed room in a comfortable-class hotel and traveling with our private tour package in low seasons. The price will be much lower if your group has 4 or more members.
2. This price is subject to change according to your traveling season, month, and date. There may be huge price increasing during the public Chinese holidays, school summer holidays (usually 2 months, July ~ August), peak tourist seasons or some special dates. (Chinese Public Holidays 2025)
3. Other factors that may change the final tour price include your group size, hotel class, tour activities, real-time exchange rate, and so on.
4. This price is based on the exchange rate USD 1= RMB 7.00. The final price will be based on the exchange rate in effect at the time of agreement with our quotation.
5. This price is only valid from now to March 31, 2026.
6. This price is not the final price until the Confirmation Letter is sent.
7. The items included and excluded in this price are for reference only. The final services included, please refer to the Confirmation Letter sent to you by the travel consultant.
Price Includes:
- English-speaking guide with the professional license as listed in the itinerary.
- Entrance fees and other fees of the scenic spots as listed in the itinerary.
- Yangtze River Cruise ticket as listed in the itinerary.
- Accommodation (comfortable-class) based on two persons sharing one room with twin beds or a double bed.
- Meals as specified with “B” (for breakfast), “L” (for lunch) or “D” (for dinner) in the itinerary.
- Private Transfers between airports, hotels and scenic spots while sightseeing in each city or area by private air-conditioned vehicle with a licensed driver as listed in the itinerary.
- Transportation: Domestic flights (economy class) or trains (second-class seat) as listed in the itinerary.
- Airport / train station pick-up and drop-off service as listed in the itinerary.
- Luggage Transfers between airports, train station and hotels.
- Travel Service Charge of our travel consultant, including the planning, handling, operational and communication charges, etc.
Price Excludes:
- China Visa (We do not offer any visa service or charge any visa-related fee.)
- Scenic spots not listed in the itinerary.
- Optional activities or other sightseeing.
- Accommodation not as listed in the itinerary.
- Meals not listed in the itinerary.
- Flights or trains not as listed in the itinerary.
- Excess Baggage Charges.
- Personal expenses of a purely personal nature such as room service, laundry, drink, Internet charge, WI-FI, fax, telephone call, etc.
- Gratuities or optional tips to guides, drivers, bellboys, etc.
- Travel insurance. Please kindly note that the full coverage travel insurance from your country of origin should be purchased in advance on your own.
Essential China Travel Information & Service
To help you have a further understanding of your tour, we provide some essential travel information like yourtour 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

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

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

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

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
Read what other travelers think about this China trip / Yangtze cruise trip. We only accept reviews from actual, confirmed travelers who purchased the tour / activity from us, so you can be sure the reviews are unbiased and authentic.
Hi Tracy,
I have been very busy since coming home! We got back to school and work immediately. The trip was wonderful. The guides were great.
Hwai
- Hwai - April 15, 2025‚ ,
We are back to Australia. and we totally enjoyed our cruise. Food offered on board and during land excursions were excellent. Land excursions are quite comprehensive.
We would recommend the cruise to our friends.
Thank you.
Kai
- Kai - April 14, 2025‚ ,
Hi Jack,
It was great thanks. We really enjoyed it. The cabin and the food were excellent. We were very well looked after by the crew and the cruise director.
Stunning scenery and the live show was a particular highlight.
Thank you for your help,
Jane
- Jane - April 11, 2025‚ ,
Tracy,
Everything is up to our expectations.
I will definitely refer my friends to Yangtse cruise & to you personally too.
Keep up the good work.
Regards,
Mr Yew
- Mr Yew - April 11, 2025‚ ,
Recommended Add-on Options
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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.

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