Best of China 17 day Tour: Kung Fu Pandas, Scenic Wonders Icons

Day 1: Arrival in Shanghai

1. Shanghai
   Pass by
   Free airport pick-up is available on the first day of your tour. We provide 24‑hour complimentary pick-up at Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG) or Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport (SHA).
   
   Meal Arrangements:
   
   Breakfast: At your own expense
   
   Lunch: At your own expense
   
   Dinner: At your own expense

Day 2: Discover Shanghai’s Modern Skyline & Historic Charm

1. Shanghai
   Pass by
   Itinerary:
   
   Shanghai → Yu Garden (1 hour) → Town God's Temple (1 hour) → Shanghai Museum (1.5 hours) → Shanghai French Concession (1 hour) → The Bund & Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street (1.5 hours) → Hotel
2. Yu Garden
   1h · Admission ticket included
   Yu Garden
   Yu Garden is located in the northeast of the old city of Shanghai, adjoining with the City God Temple. It is a world famous classical garden in the southern Yangtze which was built more than 400 years ago in the Ming Dynasty. It is regarded as one of the representatives of the traditional culture in Shanghai. It displays the main features of traditional Chinese architecture with many rocks, trees, ponds, dragons, and zigzag bridges.
3. Shanghai Temple Of the Town God (Chenghung Miao)
   1h
   Town God‘s Temple of Shanghai
   Town God’s Temple of Shanghai or Temple of the City Gods, officially the City Temple of Shanghai, is a folk temple located in the old city of Shanghai. It commemorates the elevation of Shanghai to municipal status and is the site of the veneration of three Chinese figures honored as the city gods of the town.
4. Shanghai Museum (Shanghai Bowuguan)
   1h 30m
   Shanghai Museum
   The Shanghai Museum is a museum of ancient Chinese art, situated on the People's Square in the Huangpu District of Shanghai, China. Rebuilt at its current location in 1996, it is considered one of China's first world-class modern museums and famous for its large collection of rare cultural pieces. The museum has a collection of over 120,000 pieces, including bronze, ceramics, calligraphy, furniture, jades, ancient coins, paintings, seals, sculptures, minority art and foreign art. The Shanghai Museum houses several items of national importance, including one of three extant specimens of a "transparent" bronze mirror from the Han Dynasty.
5. Former French Concession
   1h
   Shanghai French Concession
   The Shanghai French Concession was a foreign concession in Shanghai, China from 1849 until 1943, which progressively expanded in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The concession came to an end in 1943, when Vichy France under German pressure signed it over to the pro-Japanese Reorganized National Government of China in Nanjing. For much of the 20th century, the area covered by the former French Concession remained the premier residential and retail district of Shanghai and was also one of the centers of Catholicism in China. Despite re-development over the last few decades, the area retains a distinct character and is a popular tourist destination.
6. The Bund
   1h 30m
   The Bund
   The Bund or Waitanis is a waterfront area and a protected historical district in central Shanghai. The area centers on a section of Zhongshan Road (East Zhongshan Road No.1) within the former Shanghai International Settlement, which runs along the western bank of the Huangpu River in the eastern part of Huangpu District.
   
   Nanjing Road, Shanghai
   Nanjing Road is a road in Shanghai, the eastern part of which is the main shopping district of Shanghai. It is one of the world's busiest shopping streets, along with Fifth Avenue, Oxford Street, Orchard Road, Takeshita Street and the Champs-Élysées. Nanjing Road is the world's longest shopping district, around 5.5 km long, and attracts over 1 million visitors daily.

Day 3: Fly to Shiyan, Gateway to Wudang Mountain

1. Shanghai
   Pass by
   Today you will depart Shanghai and fly to Shiyan, the "Automobile City"—an industrial gem nestled amidst the Wudang Mountains. Enjoy the refreshing breeze carried by the Han River flowing through the city and gaze upon the shimmering waters of the Danjiangkou Reservoir.
   
   No tour guide accompanying on the plane. Lunch and dinner are at your own expense.
2. Shiyan
   Pass by
   After collecting your luggage, please look for our staff holding a personalized welcome sign near the arrival exit. They will assist you with your bags and escort you to your hotel for check-in. If multiple guests arrive around the same time, you may have a short wait before your transfer.

Day 4: Learn Taoism and Kung Fu from a Master in the Birthplace of Tai Chi

1. Wudang Mountain
   Pass by
   Itinerary:
   Wudang Mountain Scenic Area: Cable car ride to the Golden Summit Taihe Palace (2 hours) → Taizipo (1 hour) → Purple Cloud Palace Scenic Area Or Nanyan Palace (2 hours)
   
   Note:
   Due to ongoing renovations, Zixiao Palace will be partially closed until September 30, 2025. During this time, we’ll visit the equally captivating Nanyan Palace instead.
2. Wudang Mountain National Geopark
   2h · Admission ticket included
   Taihe Palace
   Located atop Tianzhu Peak, the highest peak of Wudang Mountain, Taihe Palace is home to the "Golden Summit" of Wudang Mountain and its most iconic architectural complex, earning it the nickname "The Heavenly Terrace." Built during the Ming Dynasty, it served as the central venue for the imperial family's worship of the Great Emperor Zhenwu, and embodies the profound Taoist culture and architectural artistry of the Ming Dynasty. Ascending the Taihe Palace, you'll witness the gilded bronze Golden Hall, housing the majestic and awe-inspiring statue of Zhenwu, whose splendor remains undimmed after centuries. From the balcony, gaze out over the rolling sea of clouds and the rolling mountains, taking in the breathtaking spectacle of "Seventy-Two Peaks Facing the Great Summit." Here, you can experience the mystical majesty of Taoist culture while savoring the magnificent natural scenery of Wudang Mountain.
3. Wudang Mountain National Geopark
   1h · Admission ticket included
   Taizipo
   Tazipo, also known as Fuzhen Temple, is one of the "Eight Temples" of Wudang Mountain and the best-preserved and largest Taoist temple on the mountain. It is known as a "treasure of Wudang Mountain's architectural art." It is the legendary place where the Great Emperor Zhenwu practiced as a youth and was a key part of the imperial Taoist temple during the Ming Dynasty. Here, you'll witness four distinctive landscapes: "One Li, Four Gates," "Nine-Bend Yellow River Wall," "One Pillar, Twelve Beams," and "Ten Miles of Osmanthus Fragrance." Entering the Prince's Hall, you'll be transported back in time as if to the prince studying. In the Patriarch's Hall, you can get up close and personal with the massive statues of Zhenwu and the Golden Boy and Jade Girl, immersing you in a unique blend of cultural and natural beauty.
4. 2h · Admission ticket included
   Purple Heaven Palace
   The Purple Heaven Palace is the largest and best-preserved Ming Dynasty Taoist architectural complex still standing on Wudang Mountain, earning it the nickname "Forbidden City in the Clouds." As the premier of Wudang Mountain's eight major temples, it serves not only as the main hall for the royal family's worship of Zhenwu Emperor's parents but also as a vital venue for Taoist rituals.
   
   Nanyan Palace
   Nanyan Palace is one of Wudang Mountain's most iconic Taoist structures. Known as the "Immortal Palace on the Cliff," it is renowned for its precariousness, unique beauty, and unique character.

Day 5: Taoist Heritage & Evening Flight to Chengdu

1. Wudang Mountain
   Pass by
   Itinerary:
   
   Yuzhen Palace+Tai Chi Health Training (1.5 hours) → Tai Chi Lake Cruise (1.5 hours) → Yuxu Palace (1 hour) → Flight from Wudang Mountain Airport to Chengdu (Economy class airfare included, No tour guide accompanying on the plane.)
   
   Flight Info: WDS 9:00 PM → TFU 10:45 PM
2. Wudang Mountain National Geopark
   1h 30m · Admission ticket included
   Yuzhen Palace
   Yuzhen Palace is a significant temple on Wudang Mountain. Built in commemoration of Zhang Sanfeng, the founder of Wudang martial arts, it holds a significant position in the history of Wudang Taoism and martial arts. Its architecture is simple and dignified, its blue bricks and gray tiles exuding a rich sense of history. Relics related to Zhang Sanfeng preserved within the palace bear witness to the legacy of Wudang martial arts. It serves as a key landmark connecting Taoist culture with the essence of martial arts, attracting countless visitors seeking to explore the roots of Wudang culture.
3. Taiji Lake
   1h 30m · Admission ticket included
   Taiji Lake Cruise
   The Wudang Mountain Taiji Lake Cruise takes you on a dream journey. Cruise across the vast, crystal-clear Taiji Lake, surrounded by mountains, creating a picturesque scene. Along the way, admire the scenic beauty of the Ancient Waterway and Pine Ridge, and even visit Happy Island to experience the meadow carnival. Enjoy the gentle breeze aboard a luxury yacht or leisure boat, listen to commentary, and experience the magnificent mountains, rivers, and culture of Wudang. Experience the beauty, romance, and joy of Wudang Mountain, fulfilling your dream of exploring the mountains and rivers.
4. Wudang Mountain National Geopark
   1h · Admission ticket included
   Yuxu Palace
   Yuxu Palace is the largest Taoist architectural complex in Wudang Mountain, known as the "Wudang Forbidden City." As the first imperial palace built during the Ming Dynasty, it served as the administrative center for Wudang Mountain Taoism. Its grand scale bears witness to the historical splendor of "building the Forbidden City in the north and renovating Wudang in the south." As you stroll through the ruins, you'll see remnants of dragon-patterned stone carvings, the mottled base of the Beishi stele, and ancient pines and cypresses, creating a striking contrast. The setting sun casts a golden glow on the ruins' red walls, adding to their majestic beauty. Despite the ravages of time, this site, spanning over 100,000 square meters, still evokes the vibrant splendor of its former "recluse of immortals."

Day 6: High-Speed Train to Huanglong Scenic Area

1. Chengdu
   Pass by
   March-September and November-December Itinerary:
   Take the intercity trains from Chengdu to Songpan → Huanglong Scenic and Historic Interest Area (3 hours, include round-trip cable car + shuttle) → Jiuzhaigou
   
   Reference High-speed Rail Train Information: C5762 9:39-11:12 Chengdu East - Songpan County
   
   October Itinerary:
   Chengdu → Huanglongxi Ancient Town (60 mins) → Leshan Giant Buddha (Boat Tour, 40 mins) → Baoguo Temple (40 mins) → Emei Mt.
2. 3h · Admission ticket included
   Huanglong Scenic and Historic Interest Area
   Located in Songpan County, Aba Tibetan and Qiang Autonomous Prefecture, Sichuan Province, Huanglong Scenic Area covers an area of 700 square kilometers. It is China's only well-preserved plateau wetland, known as a "wonder of the world" and "a fairyland on earth." It was listed as a World Heritage Site in 1992. Huanglong Scenic Area is renowned for its "Four Wonders"—colorful pools, snow-capped mountains, canyons, and forests. Together with rapids, ancient temples, and folk customs, it is known as the "Seven Wonders." The scenic area comprises Huanglong Valley, Danyun Gorge, Muni Valley, Xuebaoding, Xueshan Ridge, Hongxing Rock, and Xigou. The main attraction is Huanglong Valley, approximately 3.6 kilometers long, with terraced travertine deposits. The area is also home to many endangered species, including giant pandas and Sichuan golden monkeys.
3. Huanglongxi Ancient Town
   1h
   Huanglongxi Ancient Town
   Located on the southwestern edge of Shuangliu District, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China, Huanglongxi Ancient Town boasts a history of over 2,100 years and is considered one of China's famous historical and cultural towns. Located at the confluence of the Luxi River into the Jinjiang River, Huanglongxi Ancient Town has been a key stop on the Jinjiang waterway since the Han Dynasty. Huanglongxi Ancient Town still retains its well-preserved ancient town layout and numerous traditional folk customs. The Huanglongxi Fire Dragon Lantern Dance and the "Fuhe Haozi" (Fuhe Haozi) have been designated as national intangible cultural heritage of China. Visiting this place feels like stepping back in time and experiencing the small town life of yesteryear.
4. Leshan Giant Buddha
   40m · Admission ticket included
   Leshan Giant Buddha
   The Leshan Giant Buddha, also known as the Lingyun Giant Buddha, is located on the rock face of Qixia Peak on Lingyun Mountain, at the confluence of the Minjiang, Qingyi, and Dadu Rivers in Leshan City. Designated a UNESCO World Cultural and Natural Heritage Site, it features a seated Maitreya Buddha statue and is a masterpiece of Tang Dynasty cliff carving. The Leshan Giant Buddha was carved during the Tang Dynasty and completed over 90 years by three generations of craftsmen. Standing approximately 70 meters tall, it is a colossal stone statue of a seated Maitreya Buddha. Marvel at the majestic Leshan Giant Buddha and marvel at the ancients' ability to create such a magnificent statue without the aid of modern tools. The Leshan Giant Buddha has long been a sacred Buddhist site. Before the enormous statue, clasp your hands together and peacefully pray for peace and health for yourself, your family, and your friends.
5. Emei Mountain
   40m · Admission ticket included
   Baoguo Temple (Emei Mt.)
   Baoguo Temple, located not far from the main gate of Mount Emei, was built during the Wanli period of the Ming Dynasty. It serves as the entrance to the mountain and the starting point for most visitors to the Emeishan Scenic Area. The plaque "Baoguo Temple" above the temple gate was inscribed by Emperor Kangxi of the Qing Dynasty. It is also the center of Buddhist activities on the mountain. The main halls include the Maitreya Hall, the Main Hall, the Seven Buddha Hall, and the Samantabhadra Hall, each rising higher than the last. Upon entering the main gate, the first hall is the Maitreya Hall, housing a statue of Maitreya. The second hall is the Main Hall, housing a golden statue of Sakyamuni seated on a lotus.

Day 7: Discover the Beauty of Jiuzhaigou, Return to Chengdu

1. Chengdu
   Pass by
   March-September and November-December Itinerary:
   Jiuzhaigou → Jiuzhaigou Valley Scenic and Historic Interest Area (Full Day, include eco-friendly bus) → Take the intercity trains back to Chengdu from Jiuzhaigou
   
   Reference Train Info: C5758 Departs from Huanglongjiuzhai Station at 20:30 - Arrives at Chengdudong Station at 22:25
   
   October Itinerary:
   Emei Mt. → Emei Mt. Jinding (All day, Include round-trip cable car + sightseeing bus) → Chengdu
2. Jiuzhaigou Natural Reserve
   5h · Admission ticket included
   Jiuzhaigou Valley Scenic and Historic Interest Area
   Jiuzhaigou Valley Scenic and Historic Interest Area is located in Jiuzhaigou County (formerly Nanping County), Aba Tibetan and Qiang Autonomous Prefecture, in northern Sichuan Province, China. The area is named after the nine Tibetan villages within the valley: Shuzheng, Heye, Zechawa, Panxin, Heiguo, Panyazhu, Guwa, Pengbu, and Jianpan. The Jiuzhaigou River system flows through the Baihe River, Baishui River, and Jialing River before merging into the Yangtze River. Jiuzhaigou is a World Natural Heritage Site, a National Key Scenic Area, a National 5A Tourist Attraction, a National Nature Reserve, a National Geopark, and a member of the World Biosphere Reserve Network. It is also China's first nature reserve primarily dedicated to the preservation of natural scenery. Jiuzhaigou is renowned both in China and abroad, with Easterners calling it a "paradise on earth" and Westerners hailing it as a "fairy tale world."
3. Emei Mountain
   5h · Admission ticket included
   Emei Mt. Jinding
   The Golden Summit is the summit of Mount Emei. The four-faced, ten-direction golden statue of Samantabhadra Bodhisattva atop it is a must-see for many visitors to Mount Emei. The four-faced, ten-direction golden statue of Samantabhadra is the tallest golden Buddha in the world and the first of its four-faced, ten-direction artistic representations. Behind the statue of Samantabhadra Bodhisattva, Huazang Temple boasts three main halls. The third hall, the Samantabhadra Hall, also known as the Golden Hall or "Golden Summit," is the tallest hall on Mount Emei. Plaques on the entrance read "Golden Summit," "Endless Vows," and "Grand Dignity of Huazang." Inside, a bronze statue of Samantabhadra riding an elephant is enshrined. When viewing the sea of clouds from the Golden Summit of Emei, white clouds slowly rise from the mountains and valleys.

Day 8: Ancient Ingenuity & Poetic Heritage in Dujiangyan and Chengdu

1. Chengdu
   Pass by
   Itinerary:
   Chengdu → The Dujiangyan Irrigation System (90 mins, include golf cart) → Du Fu Thatched Cottage (60 mins) → Chengdu
2. Dujiangyan Irrigation System
   1h 30m · Admission ticket included
   The Dujiangyan Irrigation System
   The Dujiangyan Irrigation System, located on the main stream of the Minjiang River west of Dujiangyan City, was built around 256 BC by Li Bing, the prefect of Shu Commandery during the Qin Dynasty, and his son. It is one of the most well-preserved ancient water conservancy projects in China. The project consists of three main components: the Yuzui Diversion Dike, the Feishayan Spillway, and the Baopingkou Water Diversion Inlet, along with ancillary works such as the Baizhang Dike and the Renzi Dike.
3. Du Fu Cottage
   1h · Admission ticket included
   Du Fu Thatched Cottage
   Also known as the Chengdu Du Fu Thatched Cottage Museum, it is located on the banks of Huanhua Creek outside the west gate of Chengdu, Sichuan Province. It is the former residence of Du Fu, the great realist poet of the Tang Dynasty, during his stay in Chengdu.

Day 9: Visit Giant Pandas, Bullet Train to Zhangjiajie

1. Chengdu
   Pass by
   Itinerary:
   
   Chengdu → Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding (120 mins, included electric car) → Take a high-speed train from Chengdu to Zhangjiajie (includes second-class high-speed rail tickets, there is no tour guide on the train)
2. Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding
   2h · Admission ticket included
   Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding
   The base is home to many adorable giant pandas, allowing you to get up close and personal with these beloved national treasures. Located in the northern suburbs of Chengdu, approximately 10 kilometers from the city center, the base is designed to fully simulate the pandas' natural habitat, featuring lakes, streams, bamboo forests, and lawns. The base also features numerous "Panda Villas," enclosed recreational areas for the pandas. These villas feature both open[1]air gardens and indoor rest areas. In cool weather, the pandas play in the gardens, allowing visitors to admire the adorable creatures through railings. In hot weather, the pandas retreat to the air-conditioned rest areas, requiring only viewing through glass.

Day 10: Explore Zhangjiajie’s “Avatar Mountains” & Evening Folk Performance

1. Zhangjiajie
   Pass by
   Itinerary:
   Zhangjiajie National Forest Park: Tianzi Mountain (2.5 hours) → Yuanjiajie (2.5 hours) → Golden Whip Stream (1.5 hours) → "Charming Xiangxi" large-scale song and dance show (1.5 hours)
2. Tianzi Mountain
   2h 30m · Admission ticket included
   Tianzi Mountain
   Tianzi Mountain is the essence of Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, known as the "King of Peaks and Forests", famous for its spectacular sandstone peaks and forests and the wonders of the sea of clouds. As the core area of the World Natural Heritage, it not only has iconic landscapes such as "Yubi Peak" and "Fairy Scattering Flowers", but also the birthplace of the legend of Tujia heroes to Wang Tianzi, giving this landscape a profound cultural heritage. When you climb Tianzi Mountain, you can overlook the shocking scene of thousands of stone peaks pointing to the sky, the clouds and mist in spring are like a fairyland, and the snow-covered peaks and forests are like ink in winter. Standing on the observation deck of Helong Park and overlooking, you can also enjoy the majestic momentum of the "West Sea Peak Forest", which is an excellent place to appreciate the beauty of Zhangjiajie's "expanded bonsai and shrinking wonderland".
3. 2h 30m · Admission ticket included
   Yuanjiajie
   Yuanjiajie is the core scenic area of Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, renowned worldwide for its unique status as a World Natural Heritage Site and a World Geopark. Here, the Qiankun Pillars, the prototype of the "Hallelujah Mountain" in the film "Avatar," stand tall. A myriad of sandstone peaks rise from the ground, forming a breathtaking geological wonder. As the epitome of the Wulingyuan Scenic Area, Yuanjiajie boasts natural wonders such as the "World's First Bridge" and is renowned for its three-dimensional canvas of seas of clouds, peaks, and secluded valleys. Strolling along the cliff path a thousand meters above sea level, you'll enjoy 360-degree views of iconic sights like the "Southern Sky Pillar," creating a breathtaking experience of "traveling within a painting." This is the perfect place to experience the charm of Zhangjiajie's "Three Thousand Strange Peaks."
4. Golden Whip Brook
   1h 30m · Admission ticket included
   Golden Whip Stream
   Golden Whip Creek is the essence of Zhangjiajie National Forest Park and is known as "one of the most beautiful canyons in the world". This 7.5-kilometer-long stream winds between strange peaks and cliffs, named after Golden Whip Rock, and is known for its crystal clear streams, pristine and quiet ecological environment and unique sandstone peak forest landscape. As an important component of the World Natural Heritage, Golden Whip Creek not only gives birth to rich animal and plant resources, but also is known for its wonder of "thousands of years of drought and continuous rain for ten thousand years". When you walk along the stream, you can enjoy the strangely shaped peaks and forests such as "Condor Whip" and "Splitting the Mountain to Save the Mother", listen to the natural symphony of gurgling water and birdsong, and feel the comfort of "people walking in paintings", which is an excellent place to experience the beauty of Zhangjiajie's original ecology.
5. Zhangjiajie National Forest Park
   Pass by
   Charming Xiangxi" large-scale song and dance show

Day 11: Tianmen Mountain & Glass Skywalk, Evening Flight to Beijing

1. Zhangjiajie
   Pass by
   Process Schedule:
   
   Tianmen Mountain National Forest Park (4~5 hours) → Sand and Gravel Painting Exhibition Hall of the Military Sound Painting Academy (1 hour) → Fly from Zhangjiajie to Beijing (NO Tour guide on the airplane)
2. Tianmen Mountain National Forest Park
   5h · Admission ticket included
   Tianmen Mountain National Forest Park
   "Visit" Zhangjiajie's new legend "Tianmen Mountain National Forest Park", experience the thrill of soaring into the clouds, watch the top of Zhangjiajie, overlook the panoramic view of Zhangjiajie, watch the wonderful and beautiful bonsai garden, and the world's highest natural cave through the mountain - Tianmen Cave. Tourist attractions: Li Na Villa, Yunmeng Xianding, Gongtong Garden, Tianmen Mountain Glass Plank Road, Kunpeng Peak, Volley Plank Road, Tianmen Turning Water, North Overlooking Tianmen, Tianmen Cave, Upper Tian Ladder, Tianmen Mountain Tongtian Avenue, Tianmen Mountain Cableway, Tianmen Mountain National Forest Park.
3. Zhangjiajie Junsheng Painting Institute
   1h
   Junsheng Painting Institute
   China's first art museum with natural sand and gravel as the creative medium, with a collection of more than 500 original sand and gravel paintings. The artist uses Zhangjiajie's unique quartz sandstone to freeze the landscape clouds and mist through layered pasting techniques, forming a unique "three-dimensional Chinese painting" effect. The treasure of the town hall, the "Wulingyuan Scenic Map", took 3 years to perfectly restore the three thousand strange peaks of Zhangjiajie with sand and gravel. There is an interactive experience area in the museum, where visitors can make mini sand and stone paintings by themselves.

Day 12: Discover the Majesty of Imperial Beijing: the Forbidden City and the Summer Palace

1. Beijing
   Pass by
   Itinerary:
   Beijing → Tiananmen Square (30 mins) → Palace Museum (3 hours) → Summer Palace (1.5 hours, including cruise, if there is no boat in winter, it can be reduced by ￥20 per person) → Hotel
2. Tiananmen Square
   30m
   Tiananmen Square
   Tiananmen Square is a city square in the city center of Beijing, China, named after the eponymous Tiananmen, located to its north, which separates it from the Forbidden City. The square contains the Monument to the People's Heroes, the Great Hall of the People, the National Museum of China, and the Mausoleum of Mao Zedong. Mao Zedong proclaimed the founding of the People's Republic of China in the square on October 1, 1949, the anniversary of this event is still observed here. The size of Tiananmen Square is 765 x 282 meters (215,730 m2 or 53.31 acres). It has great cultural significance as it was the site of several important events in Chinese history.
3. The Palace Museum
   3h · Admission ticket included
   The Palace Museum
   The palace consists of many separate halls and courtyards. The outer buildings of the palace became a museum in 1914, although the imperial family continued to live in private apartments until 1924. In 1925, after the former emperor Puyi of the Qing dynasty was moved out, the Palace Museum was formally established. Many of the halls surrounding the museum are presented as if they had appeared in dynastic times. The main buildings of the museum include the Hall of Supreme Harmony, one of the largest wooden buildings in China. The Hall of Preserving Harmony displays a fine collection of works of art, many from the imperial treasures. Among the more impressive works is a 14-metre- (47-foot-) long Yuan fresco that was taken from the Xinghua Temple. Other areas of the palace contain displays of bronze, sculptures, pottery and porcelain, jade, and silks. Some of the treasures are exhibited in the northeast corner of the palace, known as the Palace of Peace and Longevity.
4. Summer Palace
   1h 30m · Admission ticket included
   The Summer Palace
   Using Kunming Lake, the former reservoir of the Yuan dynasty’s capital and Longevity Hill as the basic framework, the Summer Palace combined political and administrative, residential, spiritual, and recreational functions within a landscape of lakes and mountains, in accordance with the Chinese philosophy of balancing the works of man with nature. Kunming Lake contains three large islands, corresponding to the traditional Chinese symbolic mountain garden element, the southern of which is linked to the East Dike by the Seventeen Arch Bridge. An essential feature is the West Dike with six bridges in different styles along its length. Other important features include temples and monasteries in Han and Tibetan style located on the north side of the Hill of Longevity and the Garden of Harmonious Pleasure to the north-east.

Day 13: Visit Great Wall & Beijing Modern Icons

1. Beijing
   Pass by
   Itinerary:
   
   Beijing → Mutianyu Great Wall (3 hours) → Beijing → Olympic Park: National Stadium & National Aquatics Center (outside visit, 1 hour) → Hotel
2. Mutianyu Great Wall
   3h · Admission ticket included
   Mutianyu Great Wall
   Mutianyu is a section of the Great Wall of China located in Huairou District within the city limits of Beijing 70 kilometers (43 mi) northeast of the center of the city. The Mutianyu section of the Great Wall is connected with Jiankou in the west and Lianhuachi in the east. As one of the best-preserved parts of the Great Wall, the Mutianyu section of the Great Wall used to serve as the northern barrier defending the capital and the imperial tombs. Built mainly with granite, the wall is 7 to 8.5 meters (23 to 28 ft) high, and its top is 4 to 5 meters (13 to 16 ft) wide. Compared with other sections of the Great Wall, Mutianyu Great Wall possesses unique characteristics in its construction. Watchtowers are densely placed along this section of the Great Wall - 22 watchtowers on this 2,250-meter (7,380 ft) stretch.
3. 1h
   National Stadium
   The National Stadium, also known as the Bird's Nest, is an 80,000-capacity stadium in Beijing. The stadium was designed for use throughout the 2008 Summer Olympics and Paralympics. It was used again in the 2022 Winter Olympics and Paralympics. The structural form of the stadium is popularly described as a 'bird’s nest', with its pattern inspired by Chinese-style 'crazed pottery'. Seemingly random, the pattern abides by complex rules for which advanced geometry was defined.
   
   National Aquatics Center
   The National Aquatics Centre, and colloquially known as the Water Cube and the Ice Cube, is an aquatics center at the Olympic Green in Beijing, China. The facility was originally constructed to host the aquatics competitions at the 2008 Summer Olympics and Paralympics. During the Olympics where it hosted diving, swimming and synchronized swimming events.

Day 14: Visit the Temple of Heaven & Travel to Xi'an by a Bullet Train

1. Beijing
   Pass by
   Itinerary:
   Beijing → Temple of Heaven (1 hour) → Take the high-speed rail from Beijing to Xi'an (no tour guide on the high-speed rail)
2. Temple of Heaven
   1h · Admission ticket included
   Temple of Heaven
   The Temple of Heaven is an axial arrangement of Circular Mound Altar to the south, opening to the sky with the conically roofed Imperial Vault of Heaven immediately to its north. This is linked by a raised sacred way to the circular, three-tiered, conically roofed Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests further to the north. Here at these places the emperors of the Ming and Qing dynasties as interlocutors between humankind and the celestial realm offered sacrifice to heaven and prayed for bumper harvests. To the west is the Hall of Abstinence where the emperor fasted after making sacrifices.

Day 15: Visit Terracotta Warriors, and Discover Empire, Elegance & Evening Lights

1. Xi'an
   Pass by
   Itinerary:
   
   Xi'an → Qinshihuang Terracotta Warriors and Horses Museum (3 hours) → Huaqing Palace (1 hour) → Muslim Street (1 hour) → Bell and Drum Tower Square (30 mins) → Da Ci'en Temple & Big Wild Goose Pagoda (1 hour, Big Wild Goose Pagoda does not include tower boarding tickets) → Free time at Datang Everbright City
2. Mausoleum of the First Qin Emperor
   3h · Admission ticket included
   Mausoleum of the First Qin Emperor
   Located at the northern foot of Lishan Mountain, 35 kilometers northeast of Xi'an, Shaanxi Province, Qinshihuang Mausoleum is the tomb of Emperor Qinshihuang, founder of the first unified empire in Chinese history during the 3rd century BCE.
3. Huaqing Palace
   1h · Admission ticket included
   Huaqing Palace
   Huaqing Palace, also known as Huaqing Hot Springs, is a well-known historic site and an AAAAA tourist attraction of China. It gets its fame for being the place where the romantic story of Emperor Tangxuanzong of Tang Dynasty (618-907) and his beloved Yang Guifei (or Concubine Yang) took place.
   
   As a matter of fact, the site had been as an imperial palace for emperors' short stays away from the capital for more than 3000 years. Emperors of Zhou, Qin, Han, Sui and Tang dynasties spent the winter at this place every year. Emperor Zhouyouwang of Western Zhou Dynasty (1046BC-771BC) is said to be the first emperor who ordered to build a palace at the site. In the following dynasties, the palace was repaired and expanded for several times, given the name of "Hot Spring Palace" and finally denominated "Huaqqing Palace" by Emperor Tangxuanzong. The palace was constructed above hot springs; hence the site is also called "Huaqing Hot Springs".
4. Xi'an
   1h
   Huimin Street
   Muslim Street of Xi'an, known as Huimin Jie as well by Chinese, is a Muslim community in the city. The district houses the architectures in the style of Ming and Qing dynasties. The Drum Tower is located in the south and memorial archway is located in the north, embracing many ancient courtyards as well as some 10 mosques in diverse sizes that built in different time. It is also where there are about 20,000 Muslims retaining their pristine religious tradition and lifestyle. Huimin Street is a famous "snack street" due to its rich delicious local Xi'an delicacies and typical Shaanxi snacks that are concentrated here. It attracts visitors home and abroad. This featured bluestone-paved old street is also the favorite haunt for locals because of the tastiest food and leisure atmosphere.
5. Drum Tower Square
   30m
   Bell Tower and Drum Tower Square
   The Bell Tower and Drum Tower Square are located at the intersection of East, West, South and North Avenue. According to research, this was once the site of Shangshusheng (Department of State Affairs) during the Tang Dynasty. On the north side of the square, there are a number of prestigious and long-established shops; and under the square is the Century Golden Flower Mall. In addition, there is a musical fountain built on the Bell Tower.
6. Dayan Pagoda Northern Square
   1h
   Dayan Pagoda
   Giant Wild Goose Pagoda or Big Wild Goose Pagoda is a monumental Buddhist pagoda located in southern Xi'an, Shaanxi, China. It was built during the Tang dynasty and originally had five stories. It was rebuilt in 704 during the reign of Empress Wu Zetian and its exterior brick facade was renovated during the Ming dynasty. One of the pagoda's many functions was to hold sutras and figurines of Gautama Buddha that were brought to China from India by the seventh-century Buddhist monk, scholar, traveler, and translator Xuanzang. Today, the interior walls of the pagoda feature engraved statues of Buddha by the renowned 7th-century artist Yan Liben. This pagoda was added to the World Heritage List, along with many other sites along the Silk Road, as part of the "Silk Roads: the Routes Network of Chang'an-Tianshan Corridor" site in 2014.

Day 16: From Ancient Walls to Modern Skies

1. Xi'an
   Pass by
   Itinerary:
   Xi’an → Yongning Gate & Xi’an City Wall (1 hour) → Fly from Xi’an to Shanghai by plane (no tour guide on the plane)
2. 1h
   Yongning Gate
   The south gate of the Xi’an City Wall is Yongning Gate. It’s often referred to as South Gate. The gate was constructed during the early years of the Sui Dynasty. It is the city gate that has been around the oldest in Xi’an. It is the gate that is on the east side of the three gates of the imperial city for the Sui Dynasty. The Chinese people have the belief that the south is where you will find the god of fire. Thus the south gate, which is known as Yongning, is intended to be used to pray to god of fire.

Day 17: Departure from Shanghai to home

1. Shanghai
   Pass by
   Today we will end our pleasant 17-day trip. You can book a suitable flight to leave the Shanghai Pudong International Airport(PVG) OR Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport (SHA) according to your needs. Our staff only provides one drop-off service from the hotel at 7:00 in the morning. If a guest has an earlier flight and needs to leave the hotel before 7:00 to the airport, the guide can help the guest take a taxi.

Pickup details

Shanghai Pudong International Airport(PVG)；4RV5+P8J, Yingbin Expy, Pudong, Shanghai, China；
Provides 24-hour pick-up service.
Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport(SHA)；No. 2550, Hongqiao Road, Changning District, Shanghai；
Provides 24-hour pick-up service.

Totally 2 drop-off locations
Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG)；For detailed information, please refer to the last day’s itinerary.
Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport (SHA)；For detailed information, please refer to the last day’s itinerary.

• Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels
• Age and Safety: Guests under 18 must be with at least one adult. Pregnant women can join the tour only if they are 24 weeks pregnant or less by the end of the trip.
• Booking Details: Provide accurate information, including your name, contact details (preferably a mobile number), and flight information. Errors can affect your travel and any losses due to incorrect information will be your responsibility.
• To ensure a smooth and comfortable travel experience, please inform the tour operator in advance of any dietary restrictions or special requests. As travel to China requires a visa for U.S. citizens, it is recommend contacting the operator in advance for guidance and assistance with the application process.
• Tickets and Charges: Tour operator does not accept City Passes or personal tickets for attractions. Admission and meal prices may change without notice. Tickets cannot be refunded if prices drop and no price matches on attractions are allowed.
• Itinerary Changes: Tour operator may adjust the tour itinerary if needed, but the included attractions will not be reduced.
• Tour Adjustments: Guides or drivers may change the tour schedule due to weather, traffic, or other conditions to ensure a smooth trip.
• If there are no service discrepancies, it is expected that you tip your tour guide a minimum of $5.00 USD per day as a service gratuity, paid at the end of the trip. You may pay in U.S. Dollars or Chinese Yuan.
• Airport Pick-Up: Only one free airport pick-up is included per order. If the pick-up cannot be arranged due to delays or weather, you will need to cover your own transportation costs.
• Smoking Policy: Smoking is not allowed on the bus or in hotel rooms. If you smoke in a non-smoking hotel room, you may be fined at least $250.
• Gifts and Refunds: Gifts provided during the tour may change due to unforeseen factors like weather. Fees will not be refunded for changes.
• If you'd like to upgrade your travel experience, the team will be happy to assist with the personalized service and recommendations.
• Vaild Traveling documents/Visa/Passport/Air ticket are required and should be ready before join the tour. Tour operator won't responsible for that and no refund issued due to any personal reason.