The 14-day Central China Extended Tour offers two dynamic weeks of discovery across some of the most scenic and cinematic landscapes of the Celestial Empire. From Beijing’s ancient icons – the Forbidden City and nearby Great Wall – to futuristic Shanghai with its record-breaking skyline, this journey also takes you to the soaring Zhangjiajie Mountains that inspired the film Avatar, the terraced rice paddies near Guilin, and much more.
Your adventure begins in Beijing, where imperial landmarks and centuries of history await. Then it’s on to Xi'an, home of the world-famous Terracotta Army. Next, you’ll spend two full days exploring the dramatic peaks and gorges of Zhangjiajie – ride cable cars to mountain summits, cross a natural stone arch and the thrilling glass bridge, and take in some of China’s most surreal landscapes. Afterward, slow the pace in Guilin and its surroundings, where you’ll walk through rice terraces, visit vibrant villages, and enjoy a peaceful cruise on the Li River. The tour concludes in Shanghai, a 21st-century megacity that showcases China’s urban energy and modern ambition.
If you’re seeking a journey that weaves together history and innovation, dramatic nature and city life, this 14-day cultural China tour promises a rich mix of impressions and unforgettable moments.
Tour itinerary:
Arrive at Beijing Airport, where our car will pick you up and transfer to your hotel. As the capital city of China, Beijing is arguably one of the most historical and cultural cities and ancient capitals in the world. In the evening, take a tour of Qianmen Street.
Our first stop is the impressive Tiananmen Square, where most national ceremonies are held. From the square, walk to the splendid Forbidden City. Upon arrival at the largest imperial palace in the world, travelers are always struck by its high red walls and the vast number of buildings topped with golden roofs. Then continue on foot to Coal Hill, a former royal garden offering a panoramic view of the Forbidden City. Afterward, drive to Shichahai Hutong to explore the traditional residential areas of Beijing by rickshaw – an old mode of transportation. Conclude the day with a walk through the Houhai area, which is part of Shichahai.
Today we first visit the fascinating Badaling Great Wall. We take the cable car up and walk down. The wall was originally constructed from the seventh century onward to protect the Chinese empire from invaders, and it remains an unmissable part of any China experience. Afterward, we drive to the Summer Palace, where a boat ride is included. This palace served as the royal family’s summer retreat – known as the "Palace to Avoid the Heat".
Today we first visit the Temple of Heaven, where the emperors of the Ming and Qing dynasties once worshipped the Gods of Heaven. Then we go to the Silk Market, where you’ll find nearly everything you might want to buy. After that, we transfer to the station for the bullet train to Xi’an (2nd class seats). Upon arrival, our guide and driver in Xi'an will pick you up and drive you to the hotel for rest.
Today you will be driven to the suburbs to marvel at the powerful Qin Terracotta Warriors. Then we drive back to the city to visit the South Gate Old City Wall, the most complete city wall that has survived in China and one of the largest ancient military defensive systems in the world.
In the morning, we drive to visit Xi'an Museum, followed by a visit to the Small Wild Goose Pagoda. Later, we return to the city center and explore the Muslim Quarter, home to around ten mosques, the most famous being the Great Mosque. After the tour, we transfer to the airport for the flight to Shanghai. Upon arrival, our guide and driver will meet you and transfer you to the hotel.
Full-day tour in Zhangjiajie to the National Park. Take the cable car up to Tianzi Mountain, visit Helong Marshal Park, then continue by shuttle bus to Yuanjiajie. Explore highlights including the No.1 Natural Bridge in the world, the Enchanting Stage, and Qiankun Peak – famous as a filming location for Avatar. Descend the mountain via the Bailong Elevator.
The National Park is renowned for its stunning, otherworldly landscape of towering sandstone pillars and deep ravines. Established in 1982, it covers approximately 11,000 hectares and forms part of the larger Zhangjiajie Scenic Area. The park's unique rock formations, which inspired the floating mountains in the movie Avatar, have earned it UNESCO World Heritage status and made it a must-see for nature lovers and photographers.
Overnight in Zhangjiajie.
The National Park is renowned for its stunning, otherworldly landscape of towering sandstone pillars and deep ravines. Established in 1982, it covers approximately 11,000 hectares and forms part of the larger Zhangjiajie Scenic Area. The park's unique rock formations, which inspired the floating mountains in the movie Avatar, have earned it UNESCO World Heritage status and made it a must-see for nature lovers and photographers.
Overnight in Zhangjiajie.
Today we first visit Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon and walk on the world’s longest and highest glass-bottomed bridge. Suspended 300 meters above the ground, this exhilarating experience is sure to be one of the most memorable highlights of your tour.
In the afternoon, visit Tianmen Mountain, taking the cable car up and descending by bus.
The mountain is renowned for "Heaven’s Gate" – a massive natural archway that towers 131 meters high and spans 57 meters wide, creating a dramatic and awe-inspiring sight. Visitors can reach the summit via one of the longest cable cars in the world or by climbing 999 steps to the arch. Tianmen Mountain is also famous for its stunning panoramic views, lush forests, and thrilling glass skywalks along sheer cliffs.
Overnight in Zhangjiajie.
In the afternoon, visit Tianmen Mountain, taking the cable car up and descending by bus.
The mountain is renowned for "Heaven’s Gate" – a massive natural archway that towers 131 meters high and spans 57 meters wide, creating a dramatic and awe-inspiring sight. Visitors can reach the summit via one of the longest cable cars in the world or by climbing 999 steps to the arch. Tianmen Mountain is also famous for its stunning panoramic views, lush forests, and thrilling glass skywalks along sheer cliffs.
Overnight in Zhangjiajie.
In the morning, drive to the railway station to board the high-speed train to Guilin.
Upon arrival, your guide and driver will meet you and take you to visit Elephant Trunk Hill. This iconic rock formation resembles an elephant dipping its trunk into the river, as if drinking from the water.
Upon arrival, your guide and driver will meet you and take you to visit Elephant Trunk Hill. This iconic rock formation resembles an elephant dipping its trunk into the river, as if drinking from the water.
Today, we drive to Longsheng to visit the famous Terrace Fields, including a round-trip ride on the battery car. We will also explore the Yao and Zhuang minority villages. Afterward, we return to Guilin and take a walk around the scenic Ronghu area. On the way back to the hotel, we’ll stop by a Pearl Factory.
Today, we first take a Li River boat cruise to Yangshuo. Along the way, you’ll enjoy the stunning scenery on both sides of the river. Upon arrival, enjoy some time to relax at your hotel before heading out on a bicycle tour through nearby local villages. We will visit the Big Banyan Tree, which has withstood centuries of wind and rain since it was planted nearly 1,500 years ago. Later, take a leisurely stroll along West Street, the most vibrant and bustling area in Yangshuo County.
Today we drive back to Guilin Airport for the flight to Shanghai. Upon arrival, our guide and driver will pick us you and transfer you to the hotel for a short rest. Afterwards, we visit the French Concession before returning to the hotel.
Today we begin with a visit to Yu Garden and the nearby bazaars. In Yuyuan, you’ll find a sophisticated layout of pavilions, halls, rockeries, ponds, and cloisters. Next, we visit the Shanghai Museum, renowned for its collection of ancient Chinese artworks, particularly bronze ware, ceramics, calligraphy, and paintings. After that, we take a walking tour along Nanjing Road and The Bund to enjoy Shanghai’s modern skyline. Then we head to the TV Tower and take the elevator up to enjoy panoramic views of the city. Transfer to the hotel for rest.
Note:
The rate is valid from 15 April 2025 till 31 December 2026 except for the holidays in China (Labor Day 1-5 May 2025, National Day 1-8 October 2025, Chinese New Year 15-25 February, Labor Day 1-5 May 2026, National Day 1-8 October 2026).
Price includes:
- 13 nights of hotel accommodation with breakfast, based on twin sharing;
- English-speaking guide in each location;
- Air-conditioned tourist vehicle (5-seat car for 1–2 pax, 7-seat car for 3–4 pax);
- Entrance fees for all sites listed in the program;
- Domestic flights: Xi'an-Zhangjiajie and Guilin–Shanghai;
- Bullet trains with second-class seats: Beijing–Xi’an and Zhangjiajie–Guilin.
Price doesn't include:
- International flight tickets before and after the tour;
- Overweight on domestic flights;
- Full board (lunches and dinners);
- Tips to local guides and drivers.
Prices, per person
Prices are for 2025 in US$ per person, with discounted prices for larger groups available on request.
Accommodation
Standard: Zhuanjiacun Hotel
Comfort: Qingxinyuan Best Western Hotel
Lux: Neodalle Zhangjiajie Wulingyuan
Comfort: Qingxinyuan Best Western Hotel
Lux: Neodalle Zhangjiajie Wulingyuan
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