Why has China been called the Celestial Empire? What other groundbreaking inventions besides gunpowder originated here? How did Chinese characters develop? These and countless other questions will be answered on our China cultural tours.
You’ll journey through the country’s most iconic historical cities, experience the pace of life in today’s China, and engage with classic cultural landmarks – from the Great Wall and the Terracotta Army to the giant panda, one of China’s most beloved national symbols.
Many of our China cultural tours feature Beijing, with its imperial palaces and vast squares; Xi'an, once the eastern gateway of the Silk Road; Shanghai, a metropolis that has grown into the world’s largest port in the 21st century; and Chengdu, home of the endearing pandas. And that’s only a glimpse of the immense cultural richness China offers.
Choose one of our China cultural tours and uncover why this civilization was one of the greatest in antiquity – and remains one of the most dynamic and influential in the world today. Below, you'll find detailed itineraries, photos, travel conditions, and pricing.
8-day Central China Highlights Tour (from Beijing)
Explore three of China’s greatest cities in the shortest time possible. Instead of rushing from place to place, you’ll have enough time to experience the best cultural centers at a relaxed pace. Discover both thousand-year-old monuments and the bold modern architecture of today’s China.
Beijing Xi’an Shanghai
Details8 Days | Private | mid-March to mid-November from US$ 1,375 per person
10-day Central China Essential Tour (from Beijing)
This trip can truly be called the quintessence of 3,000 years of Chinese history: temples and palaces of ancient dynasties, the Great Wall of China, the Terracotta Army, medieval Pingyao, and finally, futuristic Shanghai with the tallest skyscrapers in the Middle Kingdom.
Beijing Badaling Great Wall Pingyao Xi’an Shanghai
Details10 Days | Private | mid-March to mid-November from US$ 1,660 per person
12-day Central China Classic Tour (from Beijing)
Travel ancient and modern China by land and water. Discover the legendary Great Wall, the silent Terracotta Army warriors, and cruise the Li River past stunning limestone karsts. Explore Zhujiajiao, the 'Venice of the East', before ending in vibrant Shanghai, where modern skyscrapers tower above the world's busiest port.
Beijing Badaling Great Wall Xi’an Guilin Longsheng Yangshuo Shanghai Zhujiajiao
Details12 Days | Private | mid-March to mid-November from US$ 2,035 per person
14-day Central China Extended Tour (from Beijing)
Spend two unforgettable weeks in China, exploring some of the country's most iconic sights. This tour seamlessly blends natural wonders and historic landmarks—from the dramatic peaks of Zhangjiajie and the awe-inspiring Terracotta Army to a tranquil cruise along the Li River and the vibrant energy of modern Shanghai.
Beijing Badaling Great Wall Xi'an Zhangjiajie Guilin Yangshuo Shanghai
Details14 Days | Private | mid-March to mid-November from US$ 2,420 per person
16-day Central China Grand Tour (from Beijing)
An exciting journey through some of the most popular cities and iconic locations in central China. From ancient palaces and the Great Wall to futuristic skylines, stunning natural scenery, a Yangtze River cruise, and encounters with pandas – this large-scale tour is packed with color and contrast.
Beijing Badaling Great Wall Xi'an Chengdu Chongqing Yangtze Cruise Huangshan Shanghai
Details16 Days | Private | mid-March to mid-November from US$ 2,775 per person
