12-Day Beijing, Xi’an, Yangtze River, and Shanghai Tour
Majestic China
During this 12-day private tour, explore the “golden triangle” of China — Beijing, Xi’an, and Shanghai — and experience the magnificent Yangtze River with a relaxing cruise. Enjoy both cultural and natural highlights, from the Forbidden City to the Terracotta Warriors, Three Gorges, and Shanghai’s skyline. Specially designed experiences include a night tour of the Great Wall, making a terracotta warrior, and in-depth Bund exploration.
This itinerary is fully customizable to suit your individual interests and pace.
Tour Highlights
- Explore Beijing’s historical gems: Forbidden City, Temple of Heaven, Summer Palace, Simatai Great Wall
- Discover Xi’an’s Terracotta Warriors and ancient city wall
- Experience Yangtze River Cruise and scenic Three Gorges Dam
- Enjoy modern Shanghai: The Bund, Yu Garden, Shanghai Tower, Zhujiajiao Water Town
- Private guided tours with flexible, tailor-made experiences
Tour “Wow” Points
Step into Imperial China at the Forbidden City
Explore 12 carefully selected halls in Beijing’s Forbidden City with a private guide. Discover hidden chambers, royal stories, and historical details that regular tours rarely reveal. A deep dive into the lives of emperors and empresses.
Experience the Great Wall by Night
Visit the Simatai section of the Great Wall in the evening. Fewer tourists and dramatic night lighting create a magical atmosphere. Walk along the ancient ramparts while enjoying spectacular views over Gubei Water Town.
Hands-on Terracotta Warrior Experience
Learn to make a terracotta warrior in a traditional cave workshop in Xi’an. Gain a unique insight into how these ancient masterpieces were created 2,200 years ago.
Cruise through the Majestic Yangtze River Gorges
Relax on a luxury cruise while witnessing the breathtaking Qutang, Wu, and Shennv gorges. Shore excursions include the famous Three Gorges Dam, Fengdu Ghost City, and White Emperor City, combining nature, culture, and engineering marvels.
Shanghai’s Blend of Ancient and Modern
Walk along The Bund and see historic architecture alongside futuristic skyscrapers. Visit Yu Garden and Zhujiajiao Water Town to experience classical gardens and Jiangnan water town culture. End the tour with panoramic views from Shanghai Tower.
Cultural Immersion & Unique Experiences
Enjoy a Peking duck lunch, explore local markets, try Tai Chi on Xi’an’s City Wall, and cruise traditional canals. These moments combine culinary, cultural, and hands-on experiences for a truly unforgettable China tour.
Suggested Itinerary
DAY 1 – Arrival in Beijing
Upon arrival at Beijing Capital Airport, your personal guide will meet you in the arrivals hall. A private air-conditioned car and experienced driver will transport you to your hotel comfortably, assisting with luggage and check-in. Take some time to rest or explore the nearby area at leisure. Your first day in China will start smoothly and stress-free.
DAY 2 – Beijing | The Emperor Tour
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Start your day with a visit to Tian’anmen Square, the heart of modern Beijing, before entering the Forbidden City. Your private guide will take you to 12 selected halls, providing stories and historical insights that typical tours miss, offering a deeper understanding of imperial life.
Enjoy a Peking duck lunch, one of Beijing’s most famous culinary experiences. In the afternoon, visit the Temple of Heaven, where emperors performed ancient rituals to pray for bountiful harvests. Walk among locals practicing Tai Chi and enjoy the serene atmosphere.
DAY 3 – Beijing | Night Tour of Simatai Great Wall
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Morning visit to the Summer Palace, stroll through its luxurious gardens, ornate pavilions, and the Long Corridor. Learn about the imperial family’s life and traditional Chinese landscaping.
After lunch, transfer to Gubei Water Town, located at the foot of the Simatai Great Wall. Explore the authentic architecture of this historic town with your guide. Ascend the Wall by cable car at night and admire the stunning illuminated views. Experience walking along one of the most picturesque sections of the Wall with fewer tourists.
DAY 4 – Beijing to Xi’an | Jinshanling Great Wall
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Drive from Simatai to Jinshanling Great Wall, considered one of the most magnificent and least crowded sections. Take the cable car to the top, explore well-preserved Ming Dynasty sections and restored areas. Enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding hills and towers.
Transfer back to Beijing city and board a bullet train to Xi’an in the late afternoon. Your guide and driver will meet you at Xi’an station and escort you to your hotel.
DAY 5 – Xi’an | Terracotta Warriors and Horses
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Morning Tai Chi session on Xi’an’s Ancient City Wall with a local master (optional). Alternatively, enjoy a walk or bicycle ride along the wall for panoramic city views.
Visit the world-famous Terracotta Warriors, where your guide explains how the soldiers were made, preserved, and originally painted. Then, join a local artisan in a traditional cave dwelling to craft your own miniature terracotta warrior, a unique hands-on experience.
DAY 6 – Xi’an to Chongqing | Three Gorges Museum
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Morning flight to Chongqing. Explore the Three Gorges Museum, which showcases the history, culture, and engineering marvel of the Yangtze River and the Three Gorges Dam. Board your Yangtze River cruise in the evening. Enjoy dinner aboard and meet your fellow passengers while settling in for a scenic journey.
DAY 7 – Yangtze Cruise | Ghost City & Gorges Gateway
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Optional morning Tai Chi on deck. Shore excursion to Fengdu Ghost City, exploring traditional Chinese geomancy architecture and statues depicting the afterlife.
Afternoon cultural activities on board, including traditional Chinese music and calligraphy. Optional evening show: War Fires of the Three Kingdoms, a spectacular performance reflecting Chinese history.
DAY 8 – Yangtze Cruise | Gorgeous Gorges
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Optional visit to White Emperor City, famed for its scenic views on the 10-yuan banknote and centuries-old calligraphy inscriptions. Cruise through the majestic Qutang Gorge and Wu Gorge at noon.
Afternoon visit to Shennv Stream, a tributary with emerald waters winding through deep, narrow gorges. Evening entertainment on board includes crew cabaret and talent show.
DAY 9 – Yichang Arrival | Bullet Train to Shanghai
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Disembark in Yichang. Shore excursion to Three Gorges Dam, standing on the platform for panoramic views and learning about this engineering feat. Private transfer to Yichang railway station for high-speed bullet train to Shanghai.
Note: Shore excursions are provided by Century Cruises and may vary based on your cruise selection.
DAY 10 – Shanghai | City Tour
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Begin with Yu Garden, a classical Chinese garden hidden amidst modern skyscrapers. Learn about its former owner and the story behind the famous Dragon Wall.
Stroll along The Bund, appreciating historic buildings and Shanghai’s rise as a global metropolis. End the day at Shanghai Tower, the city’s tallest building, enjoying panoramic views from the observation deck.
DAY 11 – Shanghai | Zhujiajiao Water Town
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Visit Zhujiajiao Water Town, cruise canals in a small traditional boat, and explore the riverside architecture. Immerse yourself in Jiangnan culture and traditional lifestyle.
Afternoon free for optional activities: shopping, art galleries, folk experiences, or a relaxing stroll. Your guide can tailor this final day based on your preferences.
DAY 12 – Shanghai Departure
Meals: Breakfast
Private transfer to Shanghai Pudong Airport. Your guide will assist with check-in and security, ensuring a smooth departure. Say farewell to your knowledgeable guide and driver after a memorable journey through China.
Trip Notes
- Fully customizable private tour
- Optional activities: Tai Chi, cultural workshops, photography sessions
- Comfortable travel pace with private transfers
Why Choose This Tour
- Private, personalized tour with local guides
- Includes both cultural and natural highlights
- Unique experiences not available in standard group tours
- Seamless logistics with flights, trains, hotels, and transfers included
Price Information
private car, English-speaking guide, activities, hotels, meals listed, flights/trains, 24/7 helpline
💰 From US$ 3,109 per person
(based on 2 travelers, 4-star hotels. Price varies by season, group size, and hotel choice.)The more people, the bigger the discount — up to 40% off.
