15 Days Legend of China with Xi’an, Hangzhou & Guilin

Depart to Beijing, China onboard overnight flight.

Upon arrival in Beijing, you will be warmly greeted at the airport by the tour guide and transferred to your hotel. 

Today, visit Tiananmen Square, the second largest public square in the world, and the Forbidden City, it is a historic and magnificent imperial palace complex and was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987. It is located at the heart of Beijing and covers an area of about 180 acres. It is enclosed by a massive defensive wall and a deep moat, making it one of the largest and best-preserved ancient palace complexes in the world. Then indulge in a delicious lunch to savor the flavors of both tradition and innovation – Peking Roast Duck. 
This afternoon, you may join the optional Temple of Heaven & Hutong Life tour(US$89/person). This tour offers an authentic experience, explore the UNESCO-listed Temple of Heaven before navigate Beijing’s historic alleyways on a rickshaw for a glimpse into the past, followed by a visit to a local family.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Today’s highlight is an excursion to the majestic Great Wall, the most famous image of China, and you can get a chance to climb a portion of this 3,700-mile marvel. Visit one of the largest Jade Exhibitions in Asia en-route before the Great Wall. Then drive pass by modern exteriors of the Bird’s Nest and Water Cube that were  built for the 2008 Beijing Summer Olympics. Both buildings have become symbols of modern China and are significant landmarks that showcase the country’s architectural prowess. Tonight, you can choose to attend an optional large scale dramatic musical, “The Golden Mask Dynasty” (US$65/person). 

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Today continue to the legendary Summer Palace, the resort of the Empress Dowager, where the palace grounds boast a collection of enchanting gardens and architectural marvels. Enjoy a serene boat ride across the lake, soaking in the breathtaking views, then meander through the expansive palace grounds, capturing the essence of royal leisure. 
After delving into the world of Chinese herbal medicine, you may immerse yourself in the thrilling world of the Beijing Acrobatic Show (US$60/person), an optional tour that offers a dazzling fusion of extraordinary agility and dramatic flair. Watch in awe as acrobats perform gravity-defying stunts and intricate maneuvers, set against a backdrop of vibrant costumes and pulsating music—a truly electrifying experience!

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Today, embark on the modern high-speed rail bound for Xi’an. Xi’an was the first Chinese city to open its doors to the world during the Tang Dynasty. Over a period for more than 2000 years, Xi’an was the capital of eleven dynasties. Upon arrival, transfer to hotel and enjoy the unique DaPaiDang dinner in local restaurant. Tonight, you may join the optional visit to the Grand Tang Everbright City (US$69/person). It is a 2,100-meter-long pedestrian mall in Xi’an. The design theme is inspired by Tang Dynasty (618-907), You may try on a Tang Dynasty costume, the traditional attire of the Chinese people, and have a great photo opportunity along the artificial ancient street at night, to immerse yourself in the vibrant nightlife in the Tang Dynasty. 

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Today you will visit the Terra Cotta Warriors and Horses Museum and see the attached life-sized defending army for the first emperor of China, Qin Shi Huang. This site is regarded as “the eighth wonder of the world” and is among the top archaeological excavations of the 20th century. Visit an Art Ceramics Factory before visiting Ancient City Wall. It is not only the most complete city wall that has survived in China, but also one of the largest and most complete ancient military defense systems in the world. This evening, enjoy the “special local Imperial Dumpling Banquet Dinner and the traditional Tang Dynasty Singing and Dancing Show” (US$68/person).

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Today transfer to the airport for your flight to the magical Guilin, renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, is a gem in southern China. Surrounded by dramatic karst mountains and picturesque rivers, Guilin’s beauty has inspired poets and artists for centuries. Upon arrival, visit the Elephant Trunk Hill and the Reed Flute Caves where you’ll be impressed by the fantastic Karst limestone formations. Then return to the hotel.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Today take a boat cruise trip from Guilin along the Li River for one of the finest excursions on your tour of China. The journey downstream to Yangshuo offers 30 miles of breathtaking scenery. You may have an opportunity to catch the fascinating sights of fisherman with cormorant birds while enjoy your lunch on board. Arrive in the so called “Global Village” Yangshuo in the afternoon. Free time after getting to West Street. West Street is the oldest street in Yangshuo with a history of more than 1,400 years. Surrounded by an array of traditional folks and amazing international elements. 
This afternoon, you may join the optional “Bamboo rafting adventure & local family visit” (US$75/person), it is an unique and relaxing experience, enjoy bamboo rafting on the Yulong River, where you will float along the serene waters, surrounded by lush greenery and towering karst mountains, capturing the essence of the region’s natural beauty. Upon reaching the local village, you’ll be warmly welcomed into the home of a friendly family. Engage in meaningful conversations with your hosts, learning about their daily life, traditions, and customs.

Tonight, you may enjoy an optional live performance on the Li River “The Impression Sanjie Liu” (US$68/person) This performance expresses the beautiful scenery of the Li River，the colorful culture of the ethnic groups in Guangxi and the brave imagination of the excellent artists in China. Overnight in Yangshuo.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Today return to Guilin, en-route, embark on an excursion to Longsheng Rice Terraces. Known as the Dragon’s Backbone Rice Terraces, stand as a testament to both human ingenuity and the stunning beauty of rural China. Carved into the lush, rolling hills, surrounded by the serene beauty of the mountains and the rhythmic flow of water. During rainly season, the terraces are flooded, reflecting the sunlight like mirrors, while in autumn, the fields turn golden with ripe rice ready for harvest. Then back to Guilin.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Today transfer to the airport for your flight to Shanghai, the vibrant and commercial Centre of China. Upon arrival, walk along the famous Bund, a mile-long stretch along the Huangpu River. Lined by the colonial architectures of European design, this area is the best place to capture the Western influences of the old days. Then, visit the Shanghai History Museum, renowned for its impressive collection of ancient Chinese art, and the City God Temple area, surrounded by a network of local snack vendors and souvenir shops that make for a colorful walk.

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

This morning is free at leisure. Later, transfer to Hangzhou, one of China’s most scenic and culturally rich cities. Here, you can discover a unique blend of natural beauty, historical charm, and modern amenities.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Hangzhou, described by Marco Polo as “the most beautiful and magnificent city in the world”. Today, visit the serene West Lake, the most renowned feature of Hangzhou, famous for its scenic beauty and rich historical sites. Afterward, indulge in an oriental tea-tasting experience at the Dragon Well Tea Plantation before transferring to Suzhou, where dubbed the “Venice of the East” due to its extensive waterways, ponds, and streams. You may take an optional cruise along the Grand Canal to view life along China’s golden waterway in its heyday (US$50/person). 

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch 

Today you will visit Lingering Garden, an UNESCO World Heritage site with four themed sections connected by covered walkways. At its center is a stunning garden surrounding a pond and a yellow stone granite grotto, crafted by renowned artist Zhou Binzhong. Then, explore the silk factory to discover the intricate process of silk production. Afterward, transfer to Shanghai, the rest of the day at leisure. Tonight you may join the optional “Huangpu River Night Cruise” and get a glimpse of the dazzling and charming night view of Shanghai (US$50/person). 

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch 

Today transfer to the airport for your return flight.

Meals: Breakfast