Destinations: Beijing + Xi’an + Guilin + Yangshuo + Zhangjiajie + Shanghai
Embark on a breathtaking 14-day journey curated by PandaStudyTour, tailor-made for nature lovers, photography enthusiasts and slow-paced travelers from across the globe. This exquisite voyage blends profound Chinese historical heritage with world-famous natural masterpieces, weaving together time-honored ancient capitals Beijing and Xi'an, fairy-tale karst landscapes of Guilin and Yangshuo, the otherworldly Avatar-inspired sandstone peaks of Zhangjiajie, and the modern glamour of metropolitan Shanghai. You will wander through centuries-old imperial relics, cruise along dreamlike rivers framed by green hills, hike amid primordial mountain forests, and embrace the contrast of traditional charm and cutting-edge urban vitality. Designed with a leisurely rhythm, no rushed marches or redundant detours, this tour lets you immerse yourself fully in China's most iconic natural and cultural scenery at your own pace.
Core Tour Highlights
Why Choose This Tour?
This well-balanced itinerary strikes an ideal harmony of history, nature and modern city views, crafted exclusively for overseas travelers with Western dining habits and travel preferences. You will enjoy English-speaking private guides, Western-style breakfasts, carefully selected hotels with convenient locations, and mild non-spicy catering with optional Western meals. Every arrangement respects your travel rhythm, cultural habits and physical endurance, allowing you to explore China's timeless beauty without any trivial worries.
Day 1 Arrival in Beijing
Upon your arrival at Beijing airport, you will be greeted by your private English guide and transferred to a centrally located hotel near Tiananmen or Wangfujing. Settle in and relax to beat jet lag in the afternoon, then stroll along Qianmen Street and Dashilan to experience authentic old Beijing local culture. Taste classic traditional snacks and enjoy a formal Peking Duck dinner in the evening.
Day 2 Beijing City Highlights
Visit Tiananmen Square in the morning, then explore the Forbidden City with in-depth English commentary, focusing on imperial life and architectural symbolism. After a relaxed lunch, head to Jingshan Park to overlook the panoramic view of the Forbidden City and capture classic postcard shots. Wander around Wangfujing Pedestrian Street in the evening for casual dining and leisure.
Day 3 Beijing to Xi'an
Start the day with a visit to the Temple of Heaven, appreciating ancient sacrificial culture and symmetrical architectural aesthetics. After lunch, take a high-speed train to Xi'an. Upon arrival, check into your hotel near the Bell Tower and Big Wild Goose Pagoda, then wander Muslim Street to taste local Shaanxi delicacies and learn about Hui ethnic culture.
Day 4 Xi'an Cultural Exploration
Explore the world-famous Terracotta Army of Emperor Qin Shi Huang with professional English interpretation, and join a hands-on pottery making experience to craft your own mini terracotta souvenir. In the afternoon, visit Huaqing Palace to discover Tang Dynasty royal stories and charming mountain scenery. You may choose to watch the spectacular The Everlasting Regret live-action show in the evening.
Day 5 Xi'an to Guilin
Cycle along the ancient Xi'an City Wall to admire the grand ancient military architecture before taking a flight to Guilin. After airport transfer and check-in, visit Elephant Trunk Hill, the symbol of Guilin, and enjoy a leisurely walk along the Lijiang River waterfront at night with authentic Guilin rice noodles.
Day 6 Guilin to Yangshuo Li River Cruise
Board a luxury cruise at Xingping Pier to sail along the essence section of the Lijiang River, passing the 20-yuan banknote landscape and stunning karst peaks. Join a traditional fisherman net-casting photoshoot for unique travel snapshots. Explore the ancient Xingping Town after landing, then wander Yangshuo West Street in the evening for dining and casual leisure.
Day 7 Yangshuo Countryside Leisure
Take a peaceful bamboo raft drift on Yulong River, surrounded by idyllic karst countryside scenery. In the afternoon, ride through the Ten-Mile Gallery, stopping freely to visit scenic spots and enjoy a relaxing countryside afternoon tea with local and Western treats. Dine on farm-style rural dishes amid night scenery at dusk.
Day 8 Yangshuo to Zhangjiajie
Enjoy free time in Yangshuo for souvenir shopping before taking a high-speed train to Zhangjiajie. Check into a hotel near Wulingyuan Scenic Area, then visit Tianmen Mountain. Experience the world's longest alpine cable car, admire Tianmen Cave, and try the glass plank road for a mild adventure.
Day 9 Zhangjiajie Wulingyuan Scenic Area
Enter Wulingyuan UNESCO Scenic Area, take the Bailong Elevator up to Yuanjiajie, the real shooting location of Avatar. Join themed photography at Hallelujah Mountain, then tour Tianzi Mountain to overlook the vast sea of sandstone peaks and enjoy breathtaking natural panoramas.
Day 10 Zhangjiajie Light Hiking
Take a gentle leisurely hike along Golden Whip Stream, breathing fresh forest air and enjoying clear streams and lush vegetation. Observe local plants and small wild animals under the guide's explanation. Later, visit Ten-Mile Gallery, either on foot or by sightseeing train to appreciate various peak formations.
Day 11 Zhangjiajie to Shanghai
Fly from Zhangjiajie to Shanghai, transfer to a hotel near the Bund or People’s Square. Visit Yu Garden and City God Temple to explore classical Jiangnan garden architecture and taste authentic Shanghai snacks. In the evening, admire the stunning Bund night view and stroll along Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street for shopping and sightseeing.
Day 12 Shanghai Urban Discovery
Explore Tianzifang to appreciate old Shanghai Shikumen architecture, boutique studios and casual cafes. After a local lunch, head to Lujiazui, Shanghai's modern financial landmark. You may choose to climb the Oriental Pearl Tower for a bird's-eye city view, and take the Huangpu River ferry to enjoy the classic skyline view between the Bund and Lujiazui.
Day 13 Shanghai Free Time & Shopping
Enjoy a full day of free time for shopping, leisure or last-minute souvenir hunting. You can also choose to visit Shanghai Museum to explore ancient Chinese cultural relics with English guided tours. Arrange your luggage and confirm departure information in the evening.
Day 14 Departure from Shanghai
Our guide will accompany you to the airport according to your flight schedule, assist with check-in and luggage procedures, and conclude your unforgettable 14-day China natural wonders journey with PandaStudyTour.
Important Reminders
Let PandaStudyTour lead you to discover China's most stunning natural landscapes and profound cultural heritage. Every moment of this journey will leave you with precious lifelong memories.