Classic China Tour - 9 Nights / 10 Days

3N Beijing 1N Xi’an 2N Guilin 2N Shanghai

Flights
Breakfast
Hotel
Sightseeing
Transfers
Wi-Fi

Overview

China offers an incredible blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. This 10-day tour takes you from Beijing’s imperial grandeur to Xian’s ancient treasures, Guilin’s stunning landscapes, and the modern vibrancy of Shanghai.

Start in Beijing with visits to Tiananmen Square, the Great Wall, Ming Tombs, the Forbidden City, Temple of Heaven, and the Summer Palace. Explore local culture and savour meals at authentic restaurants while immersing yourself in the city’s historic charm.

Travel to Xian to see the Terra Cotta Warriors, Huaqing Hot Spring, and Banpo Museum, reflecting the city’s rich heritage. Then journey to Guilin to cruise the picturesque Li River, visit Yangshuo, and explore the illuminated Reed Flute Caves. Conclude in Shanghai, discovering the Jade Buddha Temple, Yu Garden, Shanghai Museum, and the Bund, with time for shopping and leisure.

Itinerary

This 9-night, 10-day China tour blends history, culture, and natural wonders, taking travellers through Beijing, Xian, Guilin, and Shanghai for a complete exploration of China’s iconic landmarks and scenic highlights.

Day 1: Arrive in Beijing−

Today you arrive in Beijing and you will be met at the airport. You are then taken to the hotel or, depending on your arrival time, you will be taken for a visit to Tiananmen Square. Later in the afternoon, you are transferred back to the hotel. In the evening, you will be taken to a local restaurant for dinner. Overnight in Beijing.

Day 2: Beijing+

Following breakfast, this morning you are taken for a full-day tour to the Great Wall and the Ming Tomb. Lunch and dinner are included for you at local restaurants. Overnight in Beijing.

Day 3: Beijing+

After breakfast, get ready for a full-day visit to the Forbidden City, the Temple of Heaven, and the Summer Palace. Lunch and dinner are included for you at local restaurants. Overnight in Beijing.

Day 4: Beijing – Xian+

After breakfast, proceed to the airport or train station for your journey to Xian. Visit the Reed Flute Cave and the Seven Star Park. Following this, you will be transferred to the airport for your flight to Xian. Lunch and dinner at local restaurants. Overnight in Xian.

Day 5: Xian – Guilin+

A full-day visit to the Terra Cotta Warriors and Horses of Qin, Huaqing Hot Spring, and Banpo Museum is in store for you today. You will then be taken to the airport or train station to proceed to Guilin. On arrival in Guilin, check into the hotel and relax for the rest of the day. In the evening, you will be taken to a local restaurant for dinner. Overnight in Guilin.

Day 6: Guilin+

Enjoy a scenic cruise on the Li River and visit Yangshuo. Later, explore the Reed Flute Caves - natural limestone caves with multicoloured lighting. Lunch and dinner are included for you at local restaurants. Overnight in Guilin.

Day 7: Guilin – Shanghai+

After breakfast, proceed to the airport or train station for your journey to Shanghai. Experience a ride on the world’s fastest operating train - the Shanghai Maglev Train, and then check into your hotel. Lunch and dinner are included for you at local restaurants. Overnight in Shanghai.

Day 8: Shanghai+

Visit the Jade Buddha Temple, Yu Yuan Garden, the Shanghai Museum, and the Bund. Lunch and dinner are included for you at local restaurants. Overnight in Shanghai.

Day 9: Shanghai Departure+

After breakfast, the rest of the time is free for shopping. You will be transferred to the airport for your journey back home.

Day 10: Departure+

This day is alloted for your personal exploration and activites. Explore the surrounding area as you like.

FAQs on Classic China Tour

What type of accommodation is provided during this 10-day China tour?

The package usually includes well-located 3-star or 4-star hotels in Beijing, Xian, Guilin, and Shanghai. Each hotel offers essential amenities such as Wi-Fi, breakfast, air conditioning, and private bathrooms. Travellers who prefer luxury stays can request upgrades to premium or international chain properties for a more elevated travel experience at an additional cost.

Are airport transfers and intercity transportation included throughout the journey?

Yes, all intercity transitions by domestic flights or high-speed trains, as well as airport pick-ups and drop-offs, are generally pre-arranged for convenience. Private or shared vehicles are used for local sightseeing and transfers between attractions. This ensures a seamless journey across all four cities without requiring travellers to handle logistics independently.

Is the Li River cruise in Guilin included, and what can I expect during it?

Yes, the scenic Li River cruise is a core highlight of the tour. Travellers glide through karst mountains, peaceful fishing villages, and terraced landscapes that resemble classic Chinese paintings. The cruise usually lasts around four hours and often includes a simple onboard meal. Comfortable seating and photo stops make it a relaxing and visually captivating experience.

Can vegetarian, Jain, or halal meals be arranged during the tour?

Yes, special dietary requirements can be accommodated with advance notice. While Chinese cuisine is traditionally meat-centric, major tourist cities offer vegetarian, Jain-friendly, and halal options. Guides assist in ordering suitable meals at local restaurants. However, travellers with strict dietary needs are advised to carry some ready-to-eat food items for added convenience.

How physically demanding are the activities in this itinerary?

Most sightseeing involves moderate walking, especially at sites like the Great Wall, Forbidden City, and Yu Garden. Climbing steps or uneven terrain may be required in certain locations. However, the pace is generally well-structured with breaks in between. Elderly travellers or those with mobility concerns can request additional support such as wheelchair assistance where possible.

Are entrance tickets for major attractions such as the Great Wall and Terra Cotta Warriors included?

Yes, entry to all key attractions listed in the itinerary, including the Great Wall, Terra Cotta Warriors, Reed Flute Caves, and Jade Buddha Temple, is typically covered in the package. Optional entertainment such as evening cultural shows or acrobat performances may incur extra charges and can be added based on personal preference.

Is there free time for shopping or personal exploration?

Absolutely. Cholan Tours allots one day completely free for leisure exploration. Travellers can visit local markets, malls, or city promenades like Nanjing Road and the Bund. Popular souvenirs include tea, silk, ceramics, artwork, and traditional handicrafts. Guides provided by Cholan Tours can recommend trusted shopping spots to ensure authenticity and fair pricing.