After reaching Beijing, you’ll head straight to your hotel with help from the local guide. There’s no planned activity for the day, so you can take it easy and recover from your travels.

Accommodation: Beijing Novotel Peace Hotel or similar (4-Star)

Overnight: Beijing

In the morning, head straight to Tiananmen Square, a place of deep historical significance. After taking in its vastness, continue to the Forbidden City, a former imperial palace that spans many centuries of Chinese history. Wander through its majestic courtyards and halls, where stories of emperors’ lives are waiting to be discovered. Enjoy a Chinese lunch at a local restaurant.

The afternoon brings a visit to the Temple of Heaven, known for its beautiful Ming and Qing architecture. Once, emperors came here to pray for good harvests. Stroll around the peaceful grounds, and take in the beauty of the Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Accommodation: Beijing Novotel Peace Hotel or similar (4-Star)

Overnight: Beijing

Head out today for a full day at Mutianyu, a less crowded and well-preserved part of the Great Wall. After a 70-kilometer drive from Beijing, arrive at this impressive site and take the cable car up to begin your exploration.

As you walk along the wall, take in sweeping views of the valleys and mountains surrounding you. Mutianyu is famous for its beautiful scenery and well-preserved towers, offering a perfect setting for a relaxing hike. For an extra bit of fun, you can choose to descend by toboggan (additional charge), or simply return by cable car. Let your guide know your choice ahead of time.

Once back in Beijing, the rest of your evening is free. You may want to try the city’s famous Peking Duck at one of its top restaurants.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Accommodation: Beijing Novotel Peace Hotel or similar (4-Star)

Overnight: Beijing

Begin the day immersed in the unique charm of Beijing’s Hutongs. These traditional alleyways reveal a side of the city rooted in history, with their narrow lanes and courtyard homes. During your walk, you’ll have the chance to visit a local family, engage in meaningful conversations, and learn firsthand about their everyday life and customs. After spending time in this culturally rich setting, return to your hotel to check out and prepare for the next leg of your journey.

In the afternoon, a high-speed train will whisk you away to Xi’an, offering a comfortable ride with picturesque views of the countryside along the way. Upon your arrival, your guide will be waiting to escort you to your hotel. Spend the remainder of the evening relaxing or taking a leisurely stroll nearby.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: Eastern House Boutique Hotel or similar (4-Star)

Overnight: Xi'an

Begin the day by visiting the Terracotta Warriors, where thousands of life-sized statues stand as a testament to the legacy of Emperor Qin Shi Huang. Each figure, crafted with unique features, reflects the artistry and ambition of an ancient era. As you explore the site, you'll step back in time to witness one of the most remarkable archaeological finds of the last century.

Take a break for a traditional Chinese lunch at a nearby restaurant.

In the afternoon, shift to the vibrant atmosphere of the Muslim Quarter. This energetic neighborhood invites you to stroll along its bustling streets, filled with enticing food stalls, local shops, and the hum of daily life. Let the district’s rich flavors and lively environment leave a lasting impression of Xi'an's cultural fusion.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Accommodation: Eastern House Boutique Hotel or similar (4-Star)

Overnight: Xi'an

Begin your day exploring the grand Ancient City Wall, a centuries-old structure that encircles the heart of Xi’an. Stroll along its length or rent a bike to take in the views at your own pace.

Afterward, visit Gao’s Courtyard, where traditional Chinese design and cultural heritage come alive. Watch a Shadow Puppet performance, then try out the art of calligraphy as you learn to write Chinese characters.

A delicious a la carte Chinese lunch awaits you at a local restaurant, where you can enjoy a meal.

Later in the day, head to the airport and board a flight to Guilin. Upon arrival, your guide will accompany you to your hotel. Use the evening to settle in or wander through the streets of Guilin to discover its charm.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Accommodation: Guilin Bravo Hotel or similar (4-Star)

Overnight: Guilin

Start your journey with a private car ride from Guilin to Longsheng, a scenic drive lasting between 2.5 to 3 hours. Known for its striking terraced rice fields, Longsheng, also called Longji or the Dragon’s Backbone, offers a view like no other.

Upon reaching Longsheng, you’ll be greeted by the sight of terraced hills that have been cultivated for centuries. The impressive layers of rice fields stretch across the landscape, forming a unique and captivating pattern.

Next, explore the local ethnic villages where the Zhuang and Yao people live. These communities are a great opportunity to observe their rich traditions, including their crafts, clothing, and way of life that have been passed down through generations.

After a tour through the villages, stop for a traditional a la carte Chinese meal.

In the late afternoon, return to Guilin. You’ll have the rest of the evening free to unwind or explore more of the picturesque riverside beauty that the city has to offer.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Accommodation: Guilin Bravo Hotel or similar (4-Star)

Overnight: Guilin

A 40 to 50-minute drive takes you to the pier, where you will board a boat for a relaxing journey down the Li River. As the boat glides along the water, you’ll be surrounded by dramatic limestone peaks and lush landscapes. This peaceful cruise showcases the essence of the region’s natural beauty.

Along the way, traditional fishermen can be seen casting their nets, and water buffaloes graze by the water's edge. Small villages along the river appear like scenes from an old Chinese painting, offering a glimpse into rural life.

While taking in the views, enjoy a delicious boat lunch, savoring local flavors in the tranquil setting.

Once you arrive in Yangshuo, settle into your hotel. The rest of the day is free for you to explore the town at your own pace, especially West Street, a lively hub of shops, cafes, and bars that captures the essence of this charming town.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Accommodation: Green Lotus Hotel or similar (5-Star)

Overnight: Yangshuo

The day begins with an excursion into the countryside surrounding Yangshuo, where you can choose to either cycle through or take a private vehicle to explore. The landscape is filled with lush greenery, winding rivers, and traditional villages, offering a peaceful atmosphere that contrasts with city life.

After your time in Yangshuo, you'll return to Guilin and head to the airport for your flight to Hangzhou. Your guide will assist with all the necessary check-in procedures, making the process seamless.

Upon arriving in Hangzhou, your guide will be there to greet you and escort you to your hotel. The remainder of the evening is free for you to unwind, or take a leisurely stroll around the hotel area at your own pace.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: Zhejiang Grand Hotel or similar (4-Star)

Overnight: Hangzhou

Your morning begins with a peaceful ride through the scenic West Lake area, a place renowned for its tranquil waters and beautiful surroundings. From the comfort of a golf cart, enjoy the sights of willow trees swaying along the shore, ancient pavilions, and charming bridges that have made this spot famous across China.

Following your lake tour, head to Canal Square, where you’ll visit quirky museums dedicated to everyday objects like knives, scissors, swords, fans, and umbrellas. Here, you’ll also get the chance to try your hand at crafting a paper umbrella and explore other traditional Chinese crafts, such as bamboo weaving and paper-cutting.

In the afternoon, take a boat ride along the serene canal and stroll through the historic Dadoulu district, an area steeped in local culture and history. Your next stop will be Xiangji Temple, an ancient site that dates back to the Northern Song Dynasty, offering a glimpse into Hangzhou’s rich spiritual heritage.

At the end of a day filled with cultural discoveries, head back to your hotel for some well-deserved rest.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch 

Accommodation: Zhejiang Grand Hotel or similar (4-Star)

Overnight: Hangzhou

In the morning, take a high-speed train from Hangzhou to Huangshan, a journey that will bring you to Tunxi.

After arriving, your guide will accompany you to the hotel for check-in. In the afternoon, set off by private vehicle for a one-hour drive to Yixian County. Here, explore the charming villages of Xidi and Hongcun, both celebrated for their well-preserved architecture from the Ming and Qing dynasties. These villages, recognized by UNESCO, offer a rare glimpse into ancient rural life. As you stroll through winding lanes, admire the unique, centuries-old houses, and enjoy the serene atmosphere of these historic places.

Afterward, return to Huangshan for the night, where you can relax at your hotel.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Accommodation: Huangshan International Hotel or similar (4-Star)

Overnight: Huangshan

After breakfast, embark on a scenic drive toward Mt. Huangshan, located about 80 kilometers away, which takes around 1.5 hours. Once you arrive, board the cable car at Yungu Station to ascend the mountain. Check into your hotel perched on the summit, then enjoy a peaceful lunch with breathtaking mountain views.

In the afternoon, explore the famous peaks, including Brush Pen Peak and Lion Peak, as well as the stunning Xihai Grand Canyon. As evening falls, head to the Cloud Dispelling Pavilion to witness a serene sunset and embrace the tranquil atmosphere of the mountains. Spend the night atop the mountain.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Accommodation: Shilin Hotel or similar (4-Star)

Overnight: Mt. Huangshan

An early morning awaits as you rise to capture the spectacular sunrise over the iconic peaks of Huangshan, a sight that remains etched in memory (weather permitting). After enjoying breakfast, head to Begin-to-Believe Peak, where the ancient, uniquely shaped pines stand in awe-inspiring formations.

Descend via cable car and proceed to the station for your high-speed train to Suzhou. Once in Suzhou, your guide will greet you and transfer you to your hotel. You’re free to unwind or venture out and explore Suzhou’s picturesque streets at your leisure.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Accommodation: Garden Hotel Suzhou or similar (4-Star)

Overnight: Suzhou

Wander through Suzhou’s renowned Humble Administrator’s Garden this morning, a masterpiece of traditional Chinese landscape design. Surrounded by serene waters, this UNESCO World Heritage site offers a peaceful retreat with its elegant pavilions and delicate plantings.

Then, set off for Tongli Water Town, where the slow pace of life can be felt in every corner. Meander along the ancient canals, pass over stone bridges, and soak in the beauty of traditional architecture as you enjoy a calm boat ride through the town’s scenic waterways.

Afterward, travel by private vehicle to Shanghai, a comfortable 1.5-hour drive. Once in Shanghai, check in to your hotel and enjoy some free time to relax.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Accommodation: Central Hotel Shanghai or similar (4-Star)

Overnight: Shanghai

Kick off your day by stepping into the past at the Shanghai Museum, where you'll find an impressive collection of ancient Chinese art, from intricate bronzes to delicate ceramics and sculptures.

Afterward, take a walk along the Bund, where historic colonial-era buildings line the waterfront, offering a perfect contrast to the contemporary skyline across the Huangpu River. Explore the charming Former French Concession next, with its leafy streets, boutique shops, and cozy cafes that give the area a distinct European feel.

Enjoy a delicious lunch at a local restaurant. In the afternoon, head to the Shanghai Tower and ride up to the observation deck, where you'll be treated to stunning views of the city’s skyline and the Huangpu River.

After a day of sightseeing, return to your hotel to relax and unwind.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Accommodation: Central Hotel Shanghai or similar (4-Star)

Overnight: Shanghai

Spend your morning at leisure, whether relaxing, exploring nearby sights, or picking up a few final souvenirs from Shanghai.

When it's time to leave, your guide will take you to the airport, ensuring a smooth transfer for your flight.

Leave China with cherished memories of the experiences and places that made your journey unforgettable.

Meals: Breakfast