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13 Days China Leisure Tour with Yangtze Cruise & Train Experience

Beijing / Xian / Chengdu / Chongqing / Yangtze Cruise / Yichang / Shanghai

Move around vast China in Comfortable Way!

It is a lifetime experience to visit the most essential parts of the vast China by taking high speed train, which is much cheaper and more comfortable than taking flight. This tour combines the historical sites and natural scenery, making you learn Chinese culture and relax yourselves in the gorgeous view at the same time. In 13 days, you can experience all at a leisure pace with worry free transfer. You will get a deep understanding about Chinese history in the ancient capitals as stepping into a living classroom to know 1000 years’ history in Beijing and 3000 years’ in Xian, as well as visit the adorable pandas in Chengdu and enjoying a relaxing Yangtze River Cruise. You will also be shocked by the unbelievable development that Shanghai, the largest cosmopolitan of China, has achieved.

  • Type : Private Tour
  • Tour Code : CD-CPYT-13
  • Price : $2,090
  • Trip Length : 13D/12N
  • Theme : Panda / Culture / Cruise

HIGHLIGHTS OF THIS TOUR

  • Explore the imperial sites which are also World Heritage Sites in Beijing, including Forbidden City, Temple of Heaven, etc.
  • Enjoy the once in a lifetime hike at the world-famous Great Wall of China, which is only about 70km from Beijing city.
  • Gain insights into the ancient heart of China – Xian by exploring its 8th World Wonder, the Terracotta Warriors, ancient City Wall and other sights.
  • Say hello to the cute Giant Pandas and enjoy the exciting moments with them in their hometown - Chengdu.
  • Cruise leisurely down the Yangtze River and relax yourselves onboard with stunning Three Gorges scenery passing by.
  • Escape from the city’s hustle and bustle to visit Zhujiajiao Ancient Town, which is known as the “Venice of Shanghai”.
  • Day 1 ~ 6 Visit Beijing and Xian
    After Beijing arrival, spend two full days and a half day sightseeing the grand Tiananmen Square, historical Forbidden City, spectacular Temple of Heaven, man-made wonder Great Wall of China, royal park Summer Palace, traditional Hutong, etc. Then take high speed train to Xian on day 4. One full day to visit the incredible Terracotta Warriors, leisurely walk on the Ancient City Wall and Muslim Quarter. Before leaving for Chengdu, explore the Big Wild Goose Pagoda and Shaan’xi History Museum.
  • Day 7 ~ 11 Visit Panda & Yangtze River Cruise
    One full day in Chengdu to meet the cute Giant Panda, then enjoy leisure time in Wenshu Temple, Renmin Park and Jinli Old Street. Next morning, take a high speed train to Chongqing to board your Yangtze River cruise ship in the late afternoon. The jolly Yangtze River cruise starts. Explore the stunning scenery along the Yangtze River, including the Three Gorges, the Three Gorges Dam, and enjoy interesting cultural and natural excursions. Meanwhile, feel free to unwind with engaging activities on board. Lastly, take a flight to Shanghai from Yichang.
  • Day 12 ~ 13 Shanghai Tour & Departure
    Spend one full day exploring the great contrast of modern and old Shanghai by visiting Shanghai Museum (one of Four Greatest Museums in China) and beautiful Yu Garden, modern and prosperous Shanghai World Financial Center, Nanjing Road and the Bund etc. Before leaving Shanghai, you will take a half-day trip to Zhujiajiao Ancient Town which is known as the “Venice of Shanghai”, and has a history of 1,700 years and is a well-preserved waterside ancient town.
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Itinerary Day by Day (Can Be Customized)
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Day 1 Beijing Arrival

Airport or railway station pick up and check in hotel

Ni Hao! Welcome to Beijing, the iconic city and capital of China! You will be met by our local tour guide at the arrival hall of Beijing Airport and escorted to your downtown hotel by a private comfortable vehicle. The rest of the day is your own to relax. If you want to explore nearby areas, feel free to get some practical suggestions from your tour guide.

Arrival Ideals: At present, there are many international and domestic flights to Beijing. Besides, you can take a high speed train to this capital city from Shanghai (5-6 hrs), Xian (5.5 hrs), Guangzhou (8-9.5 hrs), etc.

  • Modern Face of Beijing Modern Face of Beijing

Day 2 Beijing (B, L)

Today's highlights: Tiananmen Square, Forbidden City, Summer Palace

After breakfast, start to explore the historical face of Beijing with a brief visit to Tiananmen Square, now the largest city plaza in the world. Tiananmen Gate on the northern side of the square was the site where Chairman Mao announced the establishment of the People's Republic of China. Stepping into the Tiananmen, you will see one of the world’s five most important palaces - the Forbidden City, a huge palace complex of more than 9,000 rooms where 24 emperors of the Ming and Qing Dynasties lived. Pass through various doorways in this magnificent structure to admire the beautiful and well preserved buildings decorated with yellow-glazed tile roofs, white marble bases and splendid colorful paintings.

After lunch, drive to the outskirts of Beijing to spend an enjoyable time in the Summer Palace, the largest and best-preserved royal garden in China. Stroll around ancient pavilions, mansions, temples, bridges and corridors while feasting your eyes on the vast lotus in Kunming Lake and the colorful paintings in the Long Corridor.

Optional activities: 1) You can watch a wonderful Kungfu Show in the Red Theater (Hong Ju Chang) which usually starts at 19:30; 2) Enjoy the classic Chinese art performance of Beijing Opera at Liyuan Theater between 19:30-21:00.

  • Summer Palace Shot by Our Guest Nguyen Summer Palace Shot by Our Guest Nguyen
  • Tiananmen Gate at Tiananmen Square Tiananmen Gate at Tiananmen Square
  • Forbidden City Photographed by Our Customer Forbidden City Photographed by Our Customer

Day 3 Beijing (B, L, D)

Today's highlights: Mutianyu Great Wall, Bird’s Nest and Water Cube

After breakfast, drive about 70km to witness one of the Seven Wonders of the World - the Great Wall. Visit the Mutianyu, a less crowded yet well-preserved segment of the Great Wall built in the Ming Dynasty. It will more than live up to all of your expectations! You’ll take a cable car to ascend the Great Wall, then hike the most beautiful and interesting part of Mutianyu. It's a wonderful experience to climb up its rising towers to enjoy scenic views and take brag-worthy photos of the wall wriggling along mountain ridges. After the exciting time, descend Mutianyu Great Wall by cable car. (Note: If energy permits, you can hike up or down which takes about 40 minutes to climb steps. Please tell your likes to your travel consultant.)

Continue your trip to Ding Tomb, the mausoleum of a 13th century emperor of the Ming Dynasty. Follow your tour guide to observe its geomantic arrangement as well as visit the underground palace for a closer observation. Then drive back to Beijing City and take a short stop at the Beijing Olympic Village to view its famous Bird's Nest and Water Cube from the outside.

Optional activity: After the whole day’s tour, treat yourself a great dinner to taste the famous Peking Roasted Duck at Quanjude.

  • Our customer Heidy visited Mutianyu Great Wall Our customer Heidy visited Mutianyu Great Wall
  • Mutianyu Great Wall - Sara's Family from Australia Sara's family from Australia visited Mutianyu Great Wall in December 2023
  • Ding Tomb Ding Tomb

Day 4 Beijing & High Speed Train to Xian (B, L)

Today's highlights: Temple of Heaven, Hutong Rickshaw

After breakfast, drive to the imperial site of the Temple of Heaven. Originally a site used to pay homage to Heaven and pray for good harvests, it is now a bustling place where locals take part in traditional activities such as Tai Chi, dancing, kite flying, water calligraphy, and others.

Then get back to the central city to hop on a rickshaw to experience the Beijing Hutongs - small alleys made by neighboring quadrangle dwellings. Shuttle among different Hutongs to get a feel of the old Beijing life style, visit various antique shops and small boutiques, and truly feel the historical changes of Beijing. This morning’s last trip will be a visit to a local family living in Siheyuan (quadrangle dwellings) in the Hutongs, which provides a unique experience to take lunch at the local family or you can learn to cook some Chinese dumplings for your lunch if you like.

Your Beijing tour is now about to end. Your tour guide will see you off at the Beijing West Railway Station for a high speed train trip to Xian (about 5 hours). You will be picked up by your tour guide at Xian North Railway Station and escorted to your hotel in Xian. The rest of the day is on your own to explore this ancient capital of China.

  • Xian train xian train
  • The majestic Temple of Heaven in Beijing - Jessica from USA Temple of Heaven Photographed by Our Guest Jessica in September 2023
  • Taylor's Family's Hutong Exploration with China Discovery Taylor's Family's Hutong Exploration with China Discovery in 2018

Day 5 Xian (B, L)

Today's highlights: Terracotta Warriors and Horses, Big Wild Goose Pagoda, Grand Tang Dynasty Ever Bright City

After breakfast, drive about 40 km to discover one of the greatest man-made wonders in the world - the Terracotta Warriors and Horses, built by the first emperor of China Qin Shihuang to protect him in his afterlife. Over 8,000 life-size warriors, horses and chariots, buried in 3 pits for more than 2,000 years until uncovered by a local farmer in 1974, form an ancient military army with complete battle units of infantry, cavalry, etc. Standing in front of these figures, one can’t help being amazed not only by the ambition of Emperor Qin Shihuang but also by the fabulous artistic skills of ancient Chinese artisans. (Before the Terracotta Warriors Museum visit, you will have a rare opportunity to make a miniature Terracotta Warrior on your own under the instruction of a local potter.)

After lunch, return to Xian to visit Da Cien Temple, a famous Buddhist sutra translation site during the Tang Dynasty. Giant Wild Goose Pagoda is the most famous building in the temple. The pagoda, rising to a height of 64.5 meters, was built by the famous Buddhist master Xuanzang to preserve classic scriptures he bought back from India during the early Tang Dynasty. Xuanzang was the prototype character for Tang Seng in the famous Chinese novel “Journey to the West”. (Note: It costs an extra 30 RMB if you want to climb up the Big Wild Goose Pagoda). After (or before) visiting the Giant Wild Goose Pagoda, you will be provided an interesting experience of trying on the Hanfu which is the solemn costume of the emperors and their families, the ministers and the noble in the ancient dynasties of China. Seize this rare opportunity to take some photos to record this unique memory!

This evening you will be offered an interesting visit to Grand Tang Dynasty Ever Bright City which is a great place to walk, enjoy amazing nightscape and recall the prosperity and glory of the mighty Tang Dynasty most importantly. Seeing this area at night is totally different than during the day as the lighting is marvelous yet tastefully done.

Optional activity: Enjoy a wonderful Tang Palace Dance Show (usually from 8pm to 9pm) after (or without) a hearty dumpling dinner.

  • Our guests get viewed by the countless Terracotta Warriors Our guests get viewed by the countless Terracotta Warriors
  • Terracotta Warriors-202310-Victoria from South Africa-CD-HA-107570 Victoria from South Africa visited Terracotta Warriors in 2023
  • Big Wild Goose Pagoda - Our Customer Myra Our Customers visited Big Wild Goose Pagoda
  • Dazzling Grand Tang Dynasty Ever Bright City lovely night views Dazzling Grand Tang Dynasty Ever Bright City lovely night views

Day 6 Xian & High Speed Train to Chengdu (B, L)

Today's highlights: Ancient City Wall, Muslim Quarter, Xian Museum

After breakfast, start today's tour with an educational visit to the Small Wild Goose Pagoda and Xi’an Museum to learn a lot about the history and culture about the ancient city of Xi’an. They are together located in a clean and beautiful park. The Small Wild Goose Pagoda is rather smaller and 55 years younger than its “sister” - the Giant Wild Goose Pagoda. Built during 707 to 709 AD, the pagoda is 43.4 meters tall with 13 tiers (originally 15 tiers), looking like a very tall rectangular pyramid. An interesting fact about the Small Wild Goose Pagoda is that the pagoda has survived nearly 70 earthquakes, and now still standing firm and sturdy. You can walk around to appreciate the beautiful design and take photos of the pagoda. Then you will go to visit Xi’an Museum which is only several minutes’ walking from the Small Wild Goose Pagoda. This museum has more than 130,000 pieces of jade relics, seals, paintings, porcelains, Buddhist statues, stone carvings and many other precious relics.

Later, go to spend a leisure time on the Ancient City Wall, the largest and best-preserved ancient city wall in China. Just like the merchants and envoys on the Silk Road thousands of years ago, you will enter the interior of the city walls through the Hanguang Gate. There you will visit a mini museum to see the real Tang Dynasty city wall ruins from over 1400 years ago, including gateways, cross-sections of the wall, and the remains of water channels. After the museum visit, get up to the city wall to enjoy a leisure stroll and pleasant panoramic views of modern Xian. Rent a bike (extra cost: 45RMB) to enjoy a relaxing cycling on the Wall is strongly recommended. The cycling routes and duration are flexible. Feel free to discuss with your tour guide. Leave the City Wall, then go to wander leisurely around the bustling and lively Muslim Quarter, a place where you can try different local snacks and explore Muslim culture.

The rest of today is free for you until get escorted to catch a high speed train to Chengdu (about 4hrs), the hometown of Giant Pandas! You will be met by local tour guide at the railway station and escorted to check in your hotel in downtown by a private comfortable vehicle. The rest of today is on your own to relax.

  • Riding on Ancient City Wall - Our Guests from USA Our guests enjoyed riding on the Ancient City Wall, Xian
  • Visit bustly Muslim Quarter in day time Visit bustly Muslim Quarter in day time
  • Xian Museum and Small Wild Goose Pagoda Xian Museum and Small Wild Goose Pagoda

Day 7 Chengdu (B, L)

Today's highlights: Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, Renmin Park, Jinli Old Street

This morning you will make a memorable visit to the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding. This facility is not only the most important panda scientific research center in the world, but also the home for more than 100 Giant Pandas. You will walk at leisure through the bamboo-framed paths and closely observe giant pandas of different ages eating bamboos, playing with each other, tumbling, and climbing trees. Be sure to not miss the chance to watch female pandas nursing their cubs in the nursery rooms! There is also a very informative Panda Museum where you can learn more scientific facts about Giant Pandas. Following the visit to this Panda base, you will be taken to a hidden spiritual Buddhist temple in hustling downtown Chengdu, Wenshu Temple, where you will marvel at the exquisite Buddhist architecture, soak in the reverent atmosphere, and wander on the temple’s peaceful paths.

Chengdu is famous throughout China for its relaxing and leisurely pace and lifestyle, which will be demonstrated by a visit to the City’s Renmin Park. Sit down, order a pot of Chinese tea, have a casual chat with your friends and watch locals indulging themselves in different kinds of folk entertainment – napping, playing mahjong, disco dancing, and giving neck massages! Next will be an impressive visit to the famous Jinli Old Street. Time will steal away as you quietly walk on the lively streets full of delicious local snacks, delicate artifacts, interesting folk shows, and other activities.

Optional activity: In the evening, watch a wonderful performance at the Sichuan Opera which includes folk opera, face changing, fire spitting, rolling lights, and other delightful entertainment (usually starts at 8pm and last 1.5 hours).

  • Giant Panda Breeding Research Base Giant Panda Breeding Research Base in Chengdu
  • Our dear clients was experiencing Chengdu local living style in the People's Park Our dear clients was experiencing Chengdu local living style in the People's Park
  • Wenshu Temple Shot by Our Guest Marcin in 2017 Wenshu Temple Shot by Our Guest Marcin in 2017

Day 8 Chengdu & High Speed Train to Chongqing (B, L)

Today's highlights: Three Gorges Museum, Liziba Metro Station, Hongya Cave

This morning, you will be transferred to Chengdu East Railway Station to take the high speed train to Chongqing (about 1-2hrs). Upon arrival at Chongqing North Railway Station/Shapingba Railway Station, you will be met by our tour guide and then go to visit Three Gorges Museum (三峡博物馆) at the city downtown. The vast collection of more than 280 thousand pieces of precious historical relics will let you have an amazing understanding of the great Yangtze River and formation of the magnificent Three Gorges, and also tell you the gradual thriving of Chongqing from 3,000 years ago, to its war defense in 20s century, and developmental path to be one of the 4 prosperous municipalities in China. Stepping out from the museum, have a nice look at the People’s Assembly Hall (重庆人民大礼堂) that is popular with fancy classical exterior design and was listed into the History of Architecture compiled in London in 1987.

Later, be transferred to take Chonqing Rail Transit Line 2 (重庆轻轨二号线) from Huanghuayuan Metro Station to Liziba Metro Station (李子坝) to look at the city’s prototype from a different angle. Then, get off to have the never-seen magic of the train going through 11-storey block of flats, existing only in the fantastically structured Chongqing built against mountains.

After that, travel to Hongya Cave (洪崖洞), the must-see highlight to appreciate the layers of featured Ba and Shu regional wooden tilted houses overlapped leaning the mountain up to 11 storeys, which looks quite glittery lit.

After the tour, you will be escorted to Chaotianmen Dock (朝天门码头) to board the Yangtze cruise ship between 18:00-20:00. Your memorable Yangtze River cruise will sail around 21:00!

More notes and tips regarding the Yangtze River Cruise’s embarkation:

  • 1. There are 13 sub-piers of Chaotianmen Dock and different ships will dock at different piers. Please check the info with your travel consultant and know where to board your ship at least one day beforehand.
  • 2. The boarding time and departure piers change based on the cruise line, water level, season, weather and other factors. Your travel consultant will ensure you have the departure time and boarding pier before boarding.
  • 3. Some cruises do not include dinner on the embarkation night, you can have dinner or buy some snacks at Chaotianmen Square before embarkation.
  • 4. Chaotianmen Dock is currently under refurbishment and does not have escalators, only wooden stairs. When embarking or disembarking at Chaotianmen, you may need to carry your luggage up or down the stairs. If you have difficulty with this due to physical constraints, please inform your travel consultant in advance. They can arrange for a luggage porter to assist you for a fee of 20-30 RMB per package.
  • Chongqing Chaotianmen Dock Chongqing Chaotianmen Dock
  • Hongya Cave Daytime-2018-Leow's Group from Singapore Leow's Group from Singapore visited Hongya Cave in 2018.
  • Chongqing Light Rail Going Through a Building at Liziba Metro Station Chongqing Light Rail Going Through a Building at Liziba Metro Station

Day 9 Yangtze River Cruise (B, L, D)

Today's highlights: On Board Activities, Fengdu Ghost City

In the morning, wake up leisurely and enjoy the gentle sunshine shining over the tranquil and beautiful Yangtze River. It will be colorful and interesting whether you decide to stay onboard or go ashore at river stops. 

Onboard, you will enjoy different kinds of activities, like practicing Tai Chi on the boat’s sundeck, drinking a relaxing morning coffee, attending a Yangtze River history and culture lecture, or taking part in the Captain’s Welcome Party and evening shows.

Next, follow a local guide and make a shore excursion in Fengdu County. Fengdu County (丰都), a vital part of the Three Gorges Reservoir Region, boosts unique natural and cultural landscape, including Fengdu Ghost City (丰都鬼城), Mount Shuanggui (双桂山), Snow Jade Cave (雪玉洞), Jade Emperor Scenic Area (玉皇圣地), Xiaoguanshan Folk Residences (小官山民俗村), etc.

Out of all these sites, Fengdu Ghost City (丰都鬼城) is the most famous and attractive one. It is filled with mysterious tales of the underworld, brutal tortures, and various types of demons and Chinese devils. Entering this ghost city, you will find many statues of demons and vivid scenes of their perfidious activities. Some cruise companies arrange the site visit as an included, and others classify it as optional, which requires extra payment; you may check with your travel consultant while booking.

An Optional Excursion: Leaving Fengdu County, your cruise will reach and dock at Zhongxian County in the late afternoon, where a marvelous large-scale real landscape show is coming. The Feng Yan San Guo Show (烽烟三国) brings a cultural feast for Yangtze River cruise visitors to know the brilliant historical culture of the Three Kingdoms Period and the spirit of loyalty of great military officer Guan Yu (关羽). With amazing effects of lights, sounds, and special effects during the show, historical scenes seem to return vividly in front of you.

More notes and tips regarding today’s itinerary:

  • 1. Even sailing the same route through the Three Gorges, different cruises would have different shore excursion arrangements. The sites abovementioned refer to common and most frequent situations. The specific itinerary of the day depends on the ship you booked.
  • 2. Physical demands and dressing tips: Comfortable shoes are highly recommended since there will be a long distance walking at Fengdu Ghost City and many stairs to climb up at Shibaozhai Pagoda!
  • Peter's Family - Relaxing Yangtze River Cruise Peter's Family enjoyed a leisure break on Yangtze River Cruises
  • Fengdu Ghost City - Tianzi Hall Fengdu Ghost City - Tianzi Hall
  • Feng Yan San Guo Show Feng Yan San Guo Show

Day 10 Yangtze River Cruise (B, L, D)

Today's highlights: Three Gorges, Shennv Stream, Captain's Farewell Party

Today, you will sail through the essential section of the Yangtze River - Three Gorges (三峡)! You shall relax on the sun deck and soak up the breathtaking gorge scenery passing by as you drift through Qutang Gorge (瞿塘峡) and Wu Gorge (巫峡). While the ship cruises toward the mouth of the Gorges, especially at Kui Gate (夔门), you’ll hear the wind whistling fiercely and witness the rolling hills stretching towards the skyline, leaving you marvelling at nature’s ingenious workmanship.

Today’s shore excursions would mainly be arranged at counties along the Three Gorges, in Fengjie (奉节), Wuxian (巫县) or Badong (巴东). Different cruise companies draw up different itineraries. But in general, most luxury Yangtze River cruise companies, such as Century Cruises, Victoria Cruises and Yangtze Gold Cruises, etc., would port in Fengjie in the morning and offer an optional shore excursion (required extra payment) to the White Emperor City (白帝城). This famous ancient “Poem City” is mentioned in about 1,400 Chinese poems. A tour through the scenic area tells a touching story of Liu Bei (刘备) entrusting his son to his prime minister, Zhuge Liang (诸葛亮). What’s more, the Viewing Platform in the scenic area is the best place to take a photo of the top representative landscape of the Qutang Gorge, Kui Gate, the same scenery on the background of the CNY 10 Note.

Cruise journey continues. In the afternoon, your cruise will stop at Wu Gorge. You will take a shore excursion here by switching to a smaller boat to sail down a beautiful stream running in a narrow side gorge where you will have close-up views of high mountain peaks and hanging coffins on the steep cliff faces. Shennv Stream (神女溪), Shennong Stream (神农溪) and the Lesser Three Gorges (小三峡) are the frequently-chosen ones.

This evening, you’ll enjoy the Captain’s Farewell Party with all your mates and appreciate or join the fascinating dance show to spend a wonderful night.

More notes and tips regarding today’s itinerary:

  • 1. Besides the shore excursions mentioned above, two newly pop-up sites selected by cruise companies have gained high recognition from guests: Three Gorges Summit (三峡之巅) and Goddess Sky Road (神女天路). Both are constructed on mountaintops for customers to enjoy the panoramic view of the natural splendor!
  • 2. Different cruises have different shore excursion arrangements. The specific itinerary of the day depends on the cruise you booked.
  • Our Guest Lone with a Yangtze River Cruise Our customer Lone took a photo with a Yangtze River Cruise
  • Carolyn from America - Goddess Sky Road Carolyn took a shore excursion to Goddess Sky Road with Yangtze 3
  • Our Dearest Guests at Kui Gate, Qutang Gorge Our customers took a shore excursion to Kui Gate at White Emperor City, Qutang Gorge
  • Shennv Stream Shennv Stream

Day 11 Yangtze Cruise & Flight to Shanghai from Yichang (B, L)

Today's highlights: Three Gorges Dam

After breakfast, you’ll begin to check out and disembark at Maoping Port. Today’s highlight is a morning excursion to Three Gorges Dam (三峡大坝), the world’s largest hydropower project, located in the middle of Xiling Gorge near Yichang. You will marvel at this gigantic dam from different angles, learn more about the background history of the Three Gorges Dam Project and enjoy the beautiful surrounding landscape and scenery. If you like, you can take an optional experience to sail through the Three Gorges Dam Ship Lift (三峡大坝升船机), the largest and the most sophisticated ship lift in the world, which takes only 40 minutes with fresh insight into the dam project.

After the dam visit (around noon), you’ll take the bus arranged by the cruise company heading to Yichang Three Gorges Center Cruise Terminal (宜昌三峡游客中心) for leave.

Here you will be pick up by our local guide and transferred to Yichang East Railway Station for a high speed train to Shanghai. After arrival in Shanghai, our local tour guide will pick you up at the train station, and escort you to your hotel for check in. The rest of the day is free for you to explore this cosmopolitan and lively city.

Disembarkation Tips: No matter you take Ship Lift or not, you’ll check out and take your luggage away in this early morning. (1) Only Dam Visiting: you’ll take bus from Maoping Port to Three Gorges Dam for sightseeing, and then arrive at Yichang downtown around 12:30. (2) Dam & Ship Lift Experience: travelers who are interested in Ship Lift will first switch to a sightseeing boat to sail through the Ship Lift and then visit Three Gorges Dam Site. You’ll arrive at Yichang downtown around 13:30. (3) Ship Lift Note: During the peak season, the ship lift operation is in full swing. In some instances, you may not be able to find a seat and may have to stand. If you are worried about how the crowds might affect your experience, it is advisable to think carefully before joining the program.

  • Three Gorges Dam The Magnificent Three Gorges Dam
  • Yichang Three Gorges Center Cruise Terminal Yichang Three Gorges Center Cruise Terminal

Day 12 Shanghai (B, L)

Today's highlights: Shanghai Museum, Yu Garden, the Bund, Shanghai World Financial Center

You will take a full day of sightseeing to explore both the past and present of Shanghai. Your first stop is Shanghai Museum, one of the Best Four Museums in China. This modern museum, with a round top and a square base which symbolizing the ancient Chinese perception of the world as "round sky, square earth", has collected many international-standard exhibits of bronzes, paintings, calligraphy, sculpture, ceramics, jade from more than 5,000 years ago to the Qing dynasty. To help you learn about the history and facts about the relics in the museum easily, an Audio Explanation Device will be prepared for you.

Then you will take an interesting visit to Yu Garden, a shining star among all the ancient Chinese gardens in Jiangnan. 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, you will drive several kilometers to enjoy a panoramic view of the modern face of Shanghai from the 100th floor (474m) of “the Eye of Shanghai” - Shanghai World Financial Center

You will then be transferred to another popular landmark of Shanghai, Nanjing Road, a shopping paradise as well as a great place to take a wonderful walk to experience the modern atmosphere of the City. Lastly, you will stop at the Bund, originally a simple towpath for transporting goods but now transformed into a feverish trading district. You will stroll along the Bund, seeing and feeling the perfect fusion of Chinese and Western cultures while at the same time taking in the stunning Shanghai skyline with your own eyes! 

Optional activities: 1) Attend an entertaining Acrobatic Show, including breathtaking “balls of death” acts, chair balancing, hula hoops, juggling of benches, walking in the air, and other breathtaking performances (usually performed during 19:30~21:00); 2) 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).

  • The View of Lujiazui from the Bund -  Our Guest Laszlo The View of Lujiazui from the Bund, Shot by Our Guest Laszlo
  • Our guests from Singapore visited Shanghai Museum Our guests from Singapore visited Shanghai Museum in March 2019
  • Wukang Road City Walk Wukang Road City Walk

Day 13 Shanghai Departure (B)

Today's highlight: Zhujiajiao Ancient Town

After breakfast, an hour’s drive will take you away from the city’s hustle and bustle and you’ll visit Zhujiajiao Ancient Town which is known as the “Venice of Shanghai”.  

Zhujiajiao has a history of 1,700 years and is a well-preserved waterside ancient town. You’ll stroll along Hundred-year-old North Street, take some awesome pictures on the Fangsheng Bridge, have a panoramic view of Zhujiao by climbing up to Yuanjin Buddhist Temple, enjoy some leisure time on the traditionally decorated boat, cruise along the canals and see the old residences, shops and bridges which are filled with classic architectural style in Ming and Qing Dynasties (1368 AD - 1911 AD).

After the water town tour, your guide and driver will escort you to the airport, railway station or port to catch your flight/train/ship to your next destination or home. Tour ends.

  • Zhujiajiao Water Town - Chona from Philippines Zhujiajiao Water Town, Picture Shot by Our Guest Chona from Philippines

The quotation for this trip is from $2068 Per Person

1. This price is for one person, based on a group of 2 adults sharing one standard double-bed room in a 4-star hotel and traveling with our private tour in low seasons. It will drop greatly 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 public Chinese holidays, school summer vacations, tourism peak seasons or some special dates. (China Public Holiday 2024 Schedule Released)
3. Other factors that may change the final tour price include group size, hotel class, tour activities, fluctuation of currency exchange rate, etc.
4. This price is based on 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 to March 31, 2025.
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.

What's included?

  • Professional licensed English-speaking guide;
  • Admission tickets for all attractions listed in the itinerary;
  • Accommodation as listed in the itinerary (4-star standard);
  • Necessary vehicle transfers as listed in the itinerary;
  • Domestic flights (economy class) and high-speed trains (second class) as listed in the itinerary;
  • Airport (and train station) pick up and drop off;
  • Luggage Transfers: between airports (railway station) and hotels;
  • All meals as listed( “B” for Chinese and Western breakfast buffet in your hotel; “L” for Chinese Lunch in local restaurant; “D” for Chinese dinner in local restaurant.);
  • Our service charge, including tour planning, handling, operational and communication charges.

What's excluded?

  • China visa;
  • Personal expenses;
  • Accommodation not listed in the itinerary;
  • Tourist sites which are not listed in the itinerary;
  • Recommended optional activities;
  • Flights or trains not listed in the itinerary;
  • Excess Baggage Charges;
  • Optional tips to guides, drivers, etc.

Check What our delighted customers are saying about our services

Hi Jack,

My wife and I returned from our China trip yesterday. The crowds at most sites were overwhelming and something that we are not used to. However, I want to let you know that we had a wonderful time mostly due to China Discovery's wonderful tour guides!

Each guide enriched our experience with both their knowledge of the cities, sites, cultures, people, and foods. They were all prompt, patient, and engaging. They were very helpful in navigating the complexities of visiting China. My wife and I enjoyed their company and conversation greatly. I don't believe we would have had the same experience in China if we had traveled there by ourselves.

All the drivers were also very courteous, on-time, and helpful!

Unfortunately, my wife caught a respiratory illness on the Yangtze River Cruise and was quite sick at ZJJ. Our guide Tim, however, was there to assist at night and brought her to the hospital to see a doctor. Tim helped us navigate the Chinese health system, stayed with us throughout the hospital visit, and brought us back to the hotel late at night! We are very grateful to Tim's extraordinary assistance!

Although we provided a paper review at the end of each location, if China Discovery has an overall review of our trip that needs to be completed, please let me know!

Again, thank you for your assistance in all the planning prior to the trip and your quick responses to my questions during the trip. Knowing you were there to assist us throughout our journey was a great source of comfort!

Regards,

Alex

Alex‚ USA, October 31, 2024

Hi Wonder,

Yes, you responded swiftly and clear. Both drivers pick up and drop off were good. Our guide, Gavin was a very good guide, and driver, he's attentive, knows history well, kind and well organized. We're very happy with him. Hotels Holiday Inn Express were OK, they served good breakfast. Location might be a bit stranded but perhaps chosen because most our trips are outskirts and not inner city.

Vivi

Vivi‚ Indonesia, October 31, 2024

Hi Wonder,

Yes! The suzhou & hangzhou tour are fantastic. I will prepare the review soon when I return to Singapore tomorrow.

Shirley

Shirley‚ Singapore, October 31, 2024

Hi Wonder,

Very lucky whole journey no rain at all...The weather was good...So we can enjoy amazing view.

Stevany

Stevany‚ Indonesia, October 30, 2024

Hi Reya,

Loved the entire trip planning and journey. Ms Lily our tour guide was remarkable and very informative. We had a great journey throughout the trip.

You were very responsive and what can I say, our guide Lily made the trip enriched with her hospitality. Beijing is indeed memorable.

Tqvm. This is really so kind of a 7-seat private car and thoughtful of your agency. Transportation in Beijing is so convenient and your upgrade did help. Tq again.

It was indeed a great trip! Loved every moment of it.

Thank you and your agency have made this trip memorable. Tq China Discovery!

Dan

Dan‚ Malaysia, October 30, 2024
Read all reviews(3,980+)

Check What our customers are saying about us on Tripadvisor.com

We are one of the few China travel agencies who have kept active and received lots of feedbacks and reviews during pandemic years

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Ginagerri
"My email to China Discovery started in April, 2024 for a trip to Cheng du in September. Our travel consultant Phoebe Gao from Chengdu office was patience and extremely helpful. She had put together..." read more »
Reviewed on October 13, 2024
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Lily T
"My trip to Guilin was successfully planned & executed with the help of Reya, our travel consultant with Chengdu Bamboo tours (part of China Discovery). We're a group of 4 elderly people..." read more »
Reviewed on October 31, 2024
Read all reviews(2,020+)

How Our Teams Serve you at China Discovery

"Highest Standards of Quality and Honesty" is the core value of each specialized team at China Discovery.

Eveyone in our company is working hard for only one goal, which is to ensure the highest level of service, luxury, and attention to detail from the minute you begin planning your trip, to the day you return home.

1-on-1 Travel Consultant

China Tour

Our travel consultants are professional, experienced and responsible, helping you from the very beginning to the end of your China trip!

After sending us an inquiry, one of our travel consultants will get back to you within 0.5~23.5 hrs. In the next few days, he/she will be working closely with you to formulate a customized tour plan, as well as providing professional suggestions based on your travel interests, time, and budget.

Beside, he/she will keep in contact with you during your entire tour in China, continually checking if everything is going well as planned.

We're working at Chengdu Bamboo International Tours, local based in Chengdu.

Local Tour Guides

China Tour

Our local guide in every destination is not only very friendly, enthusiastic but also very informative and knowledgeable.

Once you arrive in the destination, the patient and punctual guides will pick you up and take you to get under skin of the city at your own pace. By in-depth discovery and explanation, they’ll show you more about the history, culture, customs and authentic local life. Throughout the journey, they're not only expert guides who take care of all the details but also fellow travelers who are dedicated to help you explore in comfort and style.

Our guides are passionate about what they do, and it shows all the way!

Local Drivers & Vehicle

Using our private transfer service makes you comfortable, relaxed and worry free all the way!

Our private service includes licensed drivers with many years’ driving experience and air-conditioned, non-smoking, clean and well-maintained cars/vans. Drivers are local, polite, friendly and helpful, taking you to your tourist sites, hotels, airport/train stations in safety. All kinds of vehicle are offered, and yours depends on the size of your group. Usually, we offer sedan cars, SUVs, business vans (MPV) and different types of buses, all with extra space for your luggage.

Our private transfer service guarantees you the highest comfort!

Comfortable & Homelike Hotels

China Tour

In each destination, you’ll enjoy a comfortable stay in a great location!

The hotels we choose are based on star rating, great locations, well-equipped facilities, cozy bed, high quality service and guests’ feedbacks. Choices are a lot ranging from luxury 5 star, comfortable 4 star to budget 3 star. You could decide where to stay to best suit for your budget and likes. Generally, the hotels have both Western and Chinese breakfast with a wide choices.

If you have already got an ideal hotel, please feel free to tell our travel consultants and they'll book the hotel for you.

Have good sleep in our well-selected hotels in all the destinations of China.

Meals & Dining

China Tour

We can satisfy all the dietary requirements no matter you want Chinese local food, western food, vegetarian food or muslin food.

The restaurants we will take you for lunch or dinner are all designated tourist restaurants approved by local tourist administration bureau. They have very good sanitary conditions and the food is prepared fresh and clean.

There will be some meals excluded in your itinerary as you like, and your private guide will be delighted to give you some suggestions and take you to the local restaurants to taste like Beijing Roast Duck, Xian Dumpling Dinner, Sichuan Hotpot, etc., if you are interested in local food tasting.

All the dining options will satisfy your stomach!

Photo gallery of this trip

  • Modern Face of Beijing Modern Face of Beijing
  • Summer Palace Shot by Our Guest Nguyen Summer Palace Shot by Our Guest Nguyen
  • Tiananmen Gate at Tiananmen Square Tiananmen Gate at Tiananmen Square
  • Forbidden City Photographed by Our Customer Forbidden City Photographed by Our Customer
  • Our customer Heidy visited Mutianyu Great Wall Our customer Heidy visited Mutianyu Great Wall
  • Mutianyu Great Wall - Sara's Family from Australia Mutianyu Great Wall - Sara's Family from Australia
  • Ding Tomb Ding Tomb
  • Xian train Xian train
  • The majestic Temple of Heaven in Beijing - Jessica from USA The majestic Temple of Heaven in Beijing - Jessica from USA
  • Taylor's Family's Hutong Exploration with China Discovery Taylor's Family's Hutong Exploration with China Discovery
  • Our guests get viewed by the countless Terracotta Warriors Our guests get viewed by the countless Terracotta Warriors
  • Terracotta Warriors-202310-Victoria from South Africa-CD-HA-107570 Terracotta Warriors-202310-Victoria from South Africa-CD-HA-107570
  • Big Wild Goose Pagoda - Our Customer Myra Big Wild Goose Pagoda - Our Customer Myra
  • Dazzling Grand Tang Dynasty Ever Bright City lovely night views Dazzling Grand Tang Dynasty Ever Bright City lovely night views
  • Riding on Ancient City Wall - Our Guests from USA Riding on Ancient City Wall - Our Guests from USA
  • Visit bustly Muslim Quarter in day time Visit bustly Muslim Quarter in day time
  • Xian Museum and Small Wild Goose Pagoda Xian Museum and Small Wild Goose Pagoda
  • Giant Panda Breeding Research Base Giant Panda Breeding Research Base
  • Our dear clients was experiencing Chengdu local living style in the People's Park Our dear clients was experiencing Chengdu local living style in the People's Park
  • Wenshu Temple Shot by Our Guest Marcin in 2017 Wenshu Temple Shot by Our Guest Marcin in 2017
  • Chongqing Chaotianmen Dock Chongqing Chaotianmen Dock
  • Hongya Cave Daytime-2018-Leow's Group from Singapore Hongya Cave Daytime-2018-Leow's Group from Singapore
  • Chongqing Light Rail Going Through a Building at Liziba Metro Station Chongqing Light Rail Going Through a Building at Liziba Metro Station
  • Peter's Family - Relaxing Yangtze River Cruise Peter's Family - Relaxing Yangtze River Cruise
  • Fengdu Ghost City - Tianzi Hall Fengdu Ghost City - Tianzi Hall
  • Feng Yan San Guo Show Feng Yan San Guo Show
  • Our Guest Lone with a Yangtze River Cruise Our Guest Lone with a Yangtze River Cruise
  • Carolyn from America - Goddess Sky Road Carolyn from America - Goddess Sky Road
  • Our Dearest Guests at Kui Gate, Qutang Gorge Our Dearest Guests at Kui Gate, Qutang Gorge
  • Shennv Stream Shennv Stream
  • Three Gorges Dam Three Gorges Dam
  • Yichang Three Gorges Center Cruise Terminal Yichang Three Gorges Center Cruise Terminal
  • The View of Lujiazui from the Bund -  Our Guest Laszlo The View of Lujiazui from the Bund - Our Guest Laszlo
  • Our guests from Singapore visited Shanghai Museum Our guests from Singapore visited Shanghai Museum
  • Wukang Road City Walk Wukang Road City Walk
  • Zhujiajiao Water Town - Chona from Philippines Zhujiajiao Water Town - Chona from Philippines

Most Important Trip Notes

Below are some important things to know regarding of train travel tips, traveling documents, hotels and food, weather, booking guide. Traveling with China Discovery, you only need to focus on enjoying your holiday time. We will take care of all the details. Our travel consultants are always ready to help you if you have any questions about the trip.

1. How to travel by high speed trains in China?
Understanding China Train Designations
China trains are divided into two kinds: High Speed Trains and Normal Trains with different speeds, facilities and names. There are three kinds of High Speed Trains in China, differed by the letters G/D/C plus several digits. Generally speaking, G trains are faster and with better amenities. Normal trains are not recommended.
Facilities and Services in China’s High Speed Trains
All China high speed trains are fully air-conditioned and non-smoking. Western toilets are provided. There are also luggage racks, dining car, power plugs, water-dispenser and some other user-friendly facilities equipped on the train.
Which Class of Seat to Take
Second Class Seats, First Class Seats, Business Class Seats are three common seats you can find on most China high speed trains. First Class Seats are strongly recommended. They are larger and less-crowded.
How to Book China Train Tickets
Currently, you can only book China train tickets 30 days in advance. You can book on China Railway’s official website or some online travel agencies, or go to purchase tickets at any of China’s railway station. Passport is always required no matter you book online or at railway stations. If you book ticket online, you can collect ticket at the ticket counters in any railway station in China any time.
Security Check & Luggage Check
After arriving at railway station, firstly get your ticket and passport prepared and represent to the staff, and then pass Security Check & Luggage Check, and find the right boarding gate. It's easy and simple.
How to Handle Your Luggage
Travelling with luggage on China train is not a problem. If you take high speed trains, it will be easier to handle your luggage because there are plenty of spaces to place your luggage, and there are also many ways to deliver your luggage.
Related Tips about this tour
When is the best time to take this trip?
The seasons have few influence on the visits of Beijing, Xian, Chengdu and Shanghai, but matter greatly for Yangtze River Cruise. To enjoy the finest landscape and comfortable weather, you are suggested to take this tour during the Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to Early December). In the Spring days, the temperatures gradually rise up and various flowers blooming lush and verdant to treat your eyes. In the Autumn days, it's neither not too hot nor too cold. The red and golden leaves on the mountains along the river is stunning. Summer is also good for traveling, but the rainfall is plentiful, especially in July and August. Sometimes you have to change ports to board/disembark your cruise ships. Winter (December to February) is the off seasons. There are fewer travelers. You can usually get a discount for your tour. If possible, avoid China's holidays, like the May Days, National Days (Oct 1~7), Spring Festival, etc.
Vehicle and Road Condition
In this tour, the driving hour is usually less 2 hours each day. Most of the roads are in good condition. There may be traffic jams in rush hours and holidays. We usually choose the suitable time to start your trip to avoid large traffic. Our drivers are licensed drivers with many years’ driving experience. All our vehicles are air-conditioned, non-smoking, clean and well-maintained.
Hotels and Dining
The choices for accommodation are flexible in this tour. The standards of hotels range from local 3-star to some international 5-star. We usually use 4-star and 5-star hotels for our customers to ensure better stays. All the hotels we choose are usually based on star rating, great locations, well-equipped facilities, cozy bed, high quality service and guests’ feedbacks. Air conditioning and Wi-Fi are usually available. Chinese food is mainly provided in this trip. Western food can be arranged too if you want.
Payment and Booking Guide
1. What kind of payment method do you accept?
PayPal, Wire Transfer/Bank Transfer, Western Union are acceptable before your arrival, and after your arrival, CASH is required.
2. How soon before our trip do you need payment?
Early booking is always better than being rushed, and we would suggest booking to be 2-3 month earlier than your arrival to guarantee the booking items. If you are interested in any of our tours, you can pay a deposit first and balance to be paid 30 days prior to your arrival. You can also choose to pay the full amount to avoid small loss caused by currency exchange rate fluctuation.
3. When should we pay the deposit and the balance?
Certain deposit will be paid if you decide to book, and the balance is required to be paid 30 days prior to your arrival. If booking is less than 30 days, full payment is required.

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