Beijing – Xi’an – Chengdu – Zhangjiajie – Changsha – Shanghai
Discover China in unmatched depth and style on this luxury journey. From imperial landmarks to misty mountains, from vibrant cities to ancient villages, this expertly curated tour offers breathtaking photography, gourmet cuisine, panda encounters, and rich cultural immersion — perfect for nature lovers, photographers, and those seeking the extraordinary.
Important Features
- Small group size – 20 maximum.
- Outstanding guides handpicked by company owners.
- North American standard luxury hotels.
- No annoying forced shopping of any kind.
- Quality meals at non-tourist restaurants.
- Unlimited supply of bottled water during group activities.
- Great Wall visit at Mutianyu including cable car tickets.
Options Available
- Peking Opera show in Beijing
- Tang Dynasty cultural show in Xi’an
- Traditional face mask changing performance in Chengdu
TOUR ITINERARY
Meal Code: B = breakfast / L = lunch / D = dinner
Day 1/Thu: Departing for Beijing
The trip starts with your transpacific flight departing from a city of your choice. You’ll lose a day upon crossing the International Date Line.
Day 2/Fri: Arrival in Beijing
Meet the driver on arrival for transfer to the hotel. You’ll have the remainder of the day at leisure. The guide will get in touch with you tonight.
Day 3/Sat: Beijing (B/L/D)
Beijing is China’s capital, a major cultural and educational hub with a population of 22 million. Known for its opulent palaces, temples, and historic walls, it is the country’s most visited city.
Today’s itinerary begins with a visit to the Forbidden City. This UNESCO World Heritage Site, completed in 1420, consists of 980 buildings spread across 72 hectares. Officially known as the Palace Museum, the Forbidden City was the place where the emperors of the Ming (1368-1644) and Qing (1644-1912) dynasties lived and carried out their administration. It exemplifies traditional Chinese palatial architecture and has influenced cultural and architectural developments in East Asia and elsewhere.
Next, we visit Tian’anmen Square, one of the world’s largest public squares and a focal point of China’s modern history. The imposing Tian’anmen Tower sits at the north end of the square while the Monument to the People’s Heroes dominates the centre. The square is flanked by The Great Hall of the People (west) and the National Museum (east). Chairman Mao’s Mausoleum and Qianmen (Front Gate) are located in the south of the square.
In the afternoon, explore the Temple of Heaven, another UNESCO site. Situated in southeastern Beijing, the Temple of Heaven is China’s largest extant sacrificial temple where, during the Ming and Qing Dynasties, the emperors conducted the elaborate and most exalted sacrifices addressed to “the Supreme Ruler of the Universe”. Construction of the temple started in 1406 and took 14 years to complete.
If you’re interested in shopping, the world-famous Hongqiao Pearl Market near the Temple of Heaven is recommended. If you are interested, please ask the guide to drop you off there. However, you’ll need to get back to the hotel by taxi, which costs less than 10 US dollars.
We end the day with a delicious dinner featuring Beijing’s famous roast duck.
Day 4/Sun: Beijing (B/L)
After an early breakfast we embark on a full-day excursion to the legendary Great Wall at Mutianyu, 75 km northeast of the city.
Zigzagging over 6,000 kilometres from east to west along the undulating mountains, the Great Wall was built to hold off tribal invaders from the north. As history shows, the Wall failed the Chinese rulers miserably, especially in the case of Kublai Khan whose men swept across China from the Mongolian steppe, thus marking the beginning of the Yuan Dynasty (1279-1368).
Construction of the earliest sections of the Wall started in the 7th century BCE. A major renovation started with the founding of the Ming Dynasty in 1368 and took 200 years to complete. The wall we see today in Beijing is almost exactly the result of this effort.
Day 5/Mon: Beijing – Xi’an (B/L/D)
Begin your day with a visit to one of Beijing’s historic hutong neighborhoods characterized by traditional courtyard houses. Hutong refers to an ancient alleyway with siheyuan or ”4-sided courtyard house” on both sides.
Next, explore the Summer Palace, a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site originally built as an imperial retreat. The design gives prominence to Longevity Hill, as well as Kunming Lake south of the hill. In the afternoon, we board a high-speed train to Xi’an. The 4-hour-23-minute rail journey through fertile farmland dotted with villages provides the visitor with an excellent way to enjoy the beautiful countryside.
Day 6/Tue: Xi’an (B/L)
With a history dating back over 3,000 years, Xi’an served as China’s capital of several ruling dynasties including the Han (206 BCE – 220 CE) and the Tang (618 – 907). It is home to the famous Terracotta Army and the eastern terminus of the ancient Silk Road – a network of trade routes connecting China proper with regions as far as the Mediterranean beginning in the Second Century BCE.
We spend the morning visiting the Terracotta Army. Built on the excavation site, the museum is located 30 km east of the city. Designed to follow the first emperor of the Qin dynasty (221-206 BCE) into eternity, the Terracotta Army represents one of the greatest archeological discoveries of the 20th century.
After lunch we return to the city for a stroll on the ancient city wall. Declared a national treasure by the State Council in 1961, the wall (first built in 1370) encircles an area of 14 square kilometres. It runs 13.7 kilometres long and measures 12 metres in height with a thickness at the base between 15 to 18 metres.
Day 7/Wed: Xi’an – Chengdu (B/L/D)
Morning sightseeing begins at Shaanxi Provincial Museum. The modern, well-organized museum was completed in 1992 and traces the history of Xi’an from prehistory to the Qing dynasty (1644-1912). The extensive galleries and exhibitions offer the visitor an excellent introduction to the area that greatly improves understanding of the numerous historical sites in and around the city.
We then visit the grand mosque in the old town centre and the adjacent Muslim bazaar. The mosque was established in the 8th century but the majority of the complex was constructed in the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644). It was further expanded in the Qing Dynasty. Unlike most mosques in Middle Eastern or Arab countries, this mosque is completely Chinese in style. It has neither domes nor traditional minarets.
This afternoon we ride the bullet train (G1975, 14:34/18:25) to Chengdu, the capital of populous Sichuan Province. The ancient city has a population of 14 million with half of that within the urban centre and the remainder in the surrounding districts. The fertile Chengdu Plain, on which Chengdu is located, is also known as “Country of Heaven”, a phrase also often translated as “The Land of Abundance”. The discovery of the Jinsha site suggests the area of Chengdu had become the centre of the Bronze Age Sanxingdui culture around the time of the establishment of the state of Shu, prior to its annexation by Qin in 316 BCE.
Day 8/Thu: Chengdu (B/L)
Morning sightseeing takes place at the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding. The giant panda, unrelated to the red or lesser panda, is a bear native to south central China, living in mountainous regions. It is easily recognized by the large, distinctive black patches around its eyes, over the ears, and across its round body. Though it belongs to the order Carnivora, the panda’s diet is over 99% bamboo. The giant panda has an insatiable appetite for bamboo. A typical animal eats half the day – a full 12 out of every 24 hours – and relieves itself dozens of times a day. Giant pandas are solitary creatures. They have a highly developed sense of smell that males use to avoid each other and to find females for mating in the spring. After a five-month pregnancy, females give birth to a cub or two, though they cannot care for both twins. The blind infants, born fully white, weigh only 5 ounces (142 grams) at birth and cannot crawl until they reach three months of age.
The panda is a conservation reliant species. Recent statistics show 637 pandas living in captivity with most of them inside China. The most authoritative estimate as of late 2022 puts the number of giant pandas living in the wilderness at 1864.
We spend most of the afternoon at Jinsha Museum. In February 2001, construction workers chanced upon a significant archaeological discovery in modern China. The discovery led to the naming of Jinsha culture (1200 – 650 BCE) and a museum was erected at the excavation site. Jinsha culture flourished around 1000 BCE and shares similarities in burial objects with the Sanxingdui site located 50 km from Chengdu. Objects made of ivory, jade, bronze, gold and stone were unearthed at the site. Unlike the site at Sanxingdui, Jinsha did not have a city wall. Jinsha culture is believed to be a final phase of Sanxingdui civilization and represents a relocation of the political center in the ancient Shu Kingdom.
We wrap up the day with a stop at Wang Jiang Lou Park and a typical local tea house. “Wang jiang lou” means “river-overlooking tower” and the park is so named because of the ancient pagoda-shaped wooden tower onsite. The beautiful little park dotted with verdant bamboo groves has long been a favourite spot among locals for leisure.
Day 9/Fri: Chengdu – Zhangjiajie (B/L/D)
Free morning to explore on your own.
We board the high-speed train (G2447, 14:10/18:49) to Zhangjiajie after lunch.
Nestled in the northwest of Hunan Province, Zhangjiajie is a breathtaking destination renowned for its stunning natural beauty. A paradise for nature lovers, Zhangjiajie captivates visitors with its towering sandstone pillars, lush forests, and misty peaks—an inspiration for Avatar’s floating mountains. Home to Zhangjiajie National Forest Park and the thrilling Glass Bridge, Zhangjiajie is a dream for photographers and adventurers seeking otherworldly beauty and unforgettable experiences.
Day 10/Sat: Zhangjiajie (B/L)
Enjoy a full-day tour through Zhangjiajie National Forest Park – a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Our sightseeing begins with a visit to Yuanjiajie, home to the legendary “Avatar Hallelujah Mountain”. Ascend the mountain via the Bailong Elevator, the world’s tallest outdoor lift, and marvel at panoramic views of floating mountains and dizzying cliffs.
Continue to the Tianzi Mountain area, often referred to as the “Monarch of the Peak Forest” for its sweeping vistas, sea of clouds, and uniquely-named rock formations. From its lofty platforms, you’ll witness the grandeur of Zhangjiajie’s landscape from above.
Afterwards, descend to the valley floor and wander along the tranquil Jinbian Creek, a scenic trail flanked by sheer cliffs and lush forest. The gentle stream, clear pools, and occasional monkey sighting make for a peaceful contrast to the soaring peaks above.
This immersive day blends jaw-dropping natural beauty, light hiking, and iconic viewpoints — perfect for photographers and nature enthusiasts alike.
Day 11/Sun: Zhangjiajie (B/L)
Today we venture to Tianmen Mountain, where we embark the world’s longest cable car ride to reach the summit (about 7.5 kilometers) to view the famous Tianmen Cave, a natural arch in the mountain often referred to as Heaven’s Gate. Formed after a cliff collapsed in 263 AD, the cave sits at an elevation of 1,518 meters (4,980 feet) and measures approximately 131 meters high, 57 meters wide, and 60 meters deep — making it one of the highest natural karst arches in the world.
Enjoy the stunning skywalk along the cliffs. They are solid-floored cliffside walkways built directly into the vertical cliff face of Tianmen Mountain. Suspended at over 1,400 meters (4,600 feet), they offer unobstructed views of Zhangjiajie’s dreamlike landscape, with peaks rising like stone sentinels from the misty valley below.
Day 12/Mon: Zhangjiajie – Changsha (B/L/D)
The morning train to Changsha takes 2 hours 11 minutes (C7945, 09:28/11:39).
Capital of Hunan Province, Changsha is a vibrant city that beautifully blends history, culture, and modernity. Known for its rich heritage, delicious local cuisine and scenic spots, Changsha offers something for every traveller.
Our afternoon sightseeing in Changsha focuses on Hunan Museum, a cultural landmark where the precious relics unearthed from the ancient Mawangdui Han Tombs are particularly distinctive. This is followed by a stroll through Huangxing Road Pedestrian Street, a bustling commercial and entertainment hub in Changsha and known for its vibrant atmosphere and diverse offerings.
Day 13/Tue: Changsha – Shanghai (B/L/D)
Our morning sightseeing starts at Yuelu Academy – one of the oldest and most prestigious academies in China, dating back to 976 AD. Situated at the foot of Yuelu Mountain, it has been a centre for Confucian learning and culture for over a millennium, blending history with modern scholarship.
Afterwards, we proceed to Orange Isle for a leisurely stroll. Located in the middle of Xiang River which flows through the city of Changsha, the small island is a famous scenic spot. It is also known for its association with the Chinese Communist leader Mao Zedong who used to frequent the small island when he was a student at a normal school in Changsha from 1913 to 1918.
The high-speed train to Shanghai takes 4 hours (G462, 14:20/18:22).
Day 14/Wed: Shanghai (B/L/D)
With a population close to 25 million, Shanghai is China’s largest city and a dynamic hub of global trade and cultural exchange. The city delights visitors from around the world with its futuristic skyline and historical landmarks.
We begin our day with a visit to Jade Buddha Temple located in an old neighbourhood. We then walk the famous Bund – a waterfront promenade with a riveting history.
After lunch, we stroll the historical People’s Park and adjacent People’s Square in the heart of the city. Originally part of the Shanghai Race Club first established in 1850, the park and the square are surrounded by world-class museums and shops, which attract millions of visitors each year.
We wrap up the day’s sightseeing with a tour of the exquisite Yu Garden in the old town centre.
Day 15/Thu: Shanghai (B)
Free day to explore on your own.
If you are interested in art and history, Shanghai Museum would be a great place to spend half a day. This museum houses a huge collection of precious national treasures. Shanghai Jewish Refugees Museum and Nanwaitan Fabric Market (high-end tailor shops) are also recommended.
Optional Suzhou Day Tour
After breakfast we ride the high-speed train (30-40 minutes) to Suzhou, an ancient city most famous for its gardens, ancient canals and silk industry. In the late 13th century a Venetian named Marco Polo visited Suzhou and was very impressed by what he saw. He vividly described the prosperous silk industry and dubbed Suzhou “Venice of the East” due to the small waterways crisscrossing the city.
Our full-day schedule takes in the historic Tiger Hill, Humble Administrator’s Garden, North Pagoda, a short canal cruise. We return to Shanghai by train in the afternoon.
The all-inclusive price with lunch starts from US$250 per person and requires a minimum of 2 participants to operate.
Day 16/Fri: Returning Home (B)
Your tour ends this morning. Transfer to the airport any time for return flight. Guests flying back to North America will regain a day upon crossing the International Date Line, thus arriving home the same day as departing from Shanghai.
| City | Nights | Hotel | Category |
| Beijing | 3 | New Otani Chang Fu Gong | Luxury/5 stars |
| Xi’an | 2 | Sheraton Xi’an North City | Luxury/5 stars |
| Chengdu | 2 | Chengdu Taihe International | Luxury/5 stars |
| Zhangjiajie | 3 | Pullman Zhangjiajie | Luxury/5 stars |
| Changsha | 1 | Hilton Changsha Riverside | Luxury/5 stars |
| Shanghai | 3 | Amara Signature Shanghai | Luxury/5 stars |
Dates & Prices
Prices are per person based on double occupancy. Early bird discount is available if you sign up at least 10 months in advance.
| Depart (Thu) |
Return (Fri) |
Land Only* CA$/US$ |
Single Supplement CA$/US$ |
| 2026 | |||
| 12-Mar | 27-Mar | $6235/$4550 | $1645/$1200 |
| 19-Mar | 03-Apr | $6370/$4650 | $1645/$1200 |
| 26-Mar | 10-Apr | $6555/$4785 | $1710/$1250 |
| 02-Apr | 17-Apr | $6645/$4850 | $1710/$1250 |
| 09-Apr | 24-Apr | $6645/$4850 | $1710/$1250 |
| 16-Apr | 01-May | $6645/$4850 | $1710/$1250 |
| 07-May | 22-May | $6645/$4850 | $1710/$1250 |
| 14-May | 29-May | $6645/$4850 | $1710/$1250 |
| 21-May | 05-Jun | $6645/$4850 | $1575/$1150 |
| 28-May | 12-Jun | $6425/$4690 | $1575/$1150 |
| 04-Jun | 19-Jun | $6425/$4690 | $1540/$1125 |
| 11-Jun | 26-Jun | $6425/$4690 | $1540/$1125 |
| 18-Jun | 03-Jul | $6425/$4690 | $1540/$1125 |
| 09-Jul | 24-Jul | $6425/$4690 | $1540/$1125 |
| 06-Aug | 21-Aug | $6425/$4690 | $1540/$1125 |
| 03-Sep | 18-Sep | $6645/$4850 | $1710/$1250 |
| 10-Sep | 25-Sep | $6645/$4850 | $1710/$1250 |
| 17-Sep | 02-Oct | $6645/$4850 | $1710/$1250 |
| 08-Oct | 23-Oct | $6645/$4850 | $1850/$1350 |
| 15-Oct | 30-Oct | $6645/$4850 | $1850/$1350 |
| 22-Oct | 06-Nov | $6645/$4850 | $1850/$1350 |
| 29-Oct | 13-Nov | $6576/$4800 | $1710/$1250 |
| 05-Nov | 20-Nov | $6440/$4700 | $1710/$1250 |
* Land Only price excludes international airfare. Please contact us for a fare quote.
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What the tour price includes:
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What the tour price excludes:
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