China Tour: 13-day 12-night · Private Tour · Beijing+Xi'an+Lhasa+Chengdu+Shanghai+Potala Palace+Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding+Emperor Qinshihuang's Mausoleum Site Museum

Welcome to Beijing, the vibrant capital of China, where centuries of imperial history meet modern city life. Upon arrival, enjoy complimentary private airport pick-up from the two designated Beijing districts or two designated airports covered by your tour. Your driver will transfer you comfortably to Novotel Beijing Peace, conveniently located in the heart of the city.

After checking in, take some time to relax and recover from your journey. Depending on your arrival time, you may explore the surrounding neighborhood, browse nearby shopping streets, or enjoy a leisurely walk to get your first impressions of Beijing. Lunch and dinner are at your own expense, giving you the flexibility to choose from local restaurants or international dining options.

Accommodation: Novotel Beijing Peace

Meals: Lunch and dinner at your own expense

Transportation: Private airport pick-up and hotel transfer

Begin your exploration of Beijing with a visit to Tiananmen Square, one of the world's most famous public squares and an important landmark in modern Chinese history. Admire the monumental architecture surrounding the square and learn about its significance as your guide introduces the historical stories behind this remarkable site.

Continue to the magnificent Forbidden City, also known as the Palace Museum, which served as the imperial residence for centuries. Walk through its grand gates, ceremonial courtyards, ornate halls and traditional palace buildings to discover the architectural elegance and cultural traditions of China's Ming and Qing dynasties. The intricate roofs, decorative details and impressive palace layout offer an unforgettable glimpse into imperial life.

In the afternoon, head to Jingshan Park, where a short walk to the hilltop viewpoint rewards you with a panoramic view of the Forbidden City's golden rooftops and Beijing's historic city center. This is an excellent opportunity to take photographs and appreciate the traditional layout of the old imperial capital.

Later, experience the charm of traditional Beijing with a hutong tour by rickshaw. Travel through narrow historic alleyways lined with traditional courtyard residences, discover the atmosphere of old neighborhoods and gain insight into the everyday lives of local residents. Return to your hotel after a full day of cultural discovery.

Accommodation: Novotel Beijing Peace.

Meals: Dinner at your own expense.

After breakfast at the hotel, depart for the Mutianyu section of the Great Wall, one of China's most impressive historical landmarks. Surrounded by rolling mountains and lush landscapes, this beautifully preserved section offers spectacular scenery and a memorable introduction to China's ancient military engineering.

Spend time walking along the monumental stone ramparts, exploring the watchtowers and enjoying sweeping views of the surrounding mountain ridges. Your guide will explain the Great Wall's defensive purpose, construction history and strategic importance throughout different Chinese dynasties. Depending on your pace and physical condition, you can choose a leisurely walk or explore a longer stretch of the wall.

After your visit, enjoy an included local lunch featuring regional Chinese dishes before returning to Beijing. The remainder of the day is free for relaxation, shopping or independent exploration. You may wish to enjoy a traditional Beijing roast duck dinner or sample other local specialties at your own expense.

Accommodation: Novotel Beijing Peace.

Meals: Breakfast and local lunch included for adults; dinner at your own expense.

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before experiencing a more local side of Beijing with free time to visit a traditional morning food market. Observe the lively atmosphere as residents shop for fresh produce, traditional snacks and everyday ingredients. Depending on the market and your interests, you may also have the opportunity to sample local breakfast foods or purchase small treats at your own expense.

Continue to the Temple of Heaven, an extraordinary complex of religious buildings and landscaped grounds where emperors of the Ming and Qing dynasties performed ceremonies to pray for good harvests. Admire the iconic Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests, renowned for its circular architecture and vivid blue roof tiles, and explore the surrounding park to appreciate the harmony between traditional Chinese architecture and nature.

Later, transfer to the railway station for your high-speed train journey from Beijing to Xi'an. Relax as the train travels across the Chinese countryside toward one of the country's most historically significant cities. Upon arrival, make your way to EASTERN HOUSE for check-in and a well-deserved rest. The evening is free for independent dining or a short stroll around the surrounding neighborhood.

Accommodation: EASTERN HOUSE, Xi'an.

Meals: Breakfast included for adults; lunch and dinner at your own expense.

Discover the remarkable history of ancient China with a visit to the Terracotta Army, one of the world's most extraordinary archaeological discoveries. Explore the excavation pits containing thousands of life-sized terracotta soldiers, horses and chariots created to guard the tomb of Qin Shi Huang, China's first emperor. Observe the distinctive facial features, uniforms and formations of the warriors while learning how this vast underground army reflects the power and ambition of the Qin dynasty.

Continue to the historic Muslim Quarter, also known as Hui Fang, a lively district famous for its traditional architecture, bustling streets and rich culinary heritage. Walk through the colorful market lanes, where the aromas of freshly prepared food fill the air and vendors sell local snacks, spices, souvenirs and handmade goods.

This is an ideal opportunity to experience Xi'an's blend of Chinese and Muslim cultural influences. Consider sampling local specialties such as roujiamo, biangbiang noodles or yangrou paomo, all available at your own expense. After exploring the neighborhood, return to EASTERN HOUSE or enjoy additional independent sightseeing at your leisure.

Accommodation: EASTERN HOUSE, Xi'an.

Meals: Meals not specified as included are at your own expense; dinner is self-arranged.

After breakfast or a morning at leisure, your guide and driver will accompany you to Xi'an Airport for your flight to Lhasa, the spiritual heart of Tibet. Enjoy the changing landscapes as you travel toward the Tibetan Plateau, a region celebrated for its dramatic mountains, distinctive culture and profound religious traditions.

Upon arrival in Lhasa, meet your local transfer team and travel to Thangka Hotel for check-in. The remainder of the day is intentionally kept relaxed to allow your body to begin adjusting to Lhasa's high altitude, approximately 3,650 meters above sea level.

Take it easy, drink water regularly, avoid strenuous activity and allow sufficient time for rest. If you feel comfortable, you can enjoy a gentle walk near the hotel without rushing or climbing steep slopes. Lunch and dinner are self-arranged, and an early night is recommended before the upcoming sightseeing days.

Accommodation: Thangka Hotel, Lhasa.

Meals: Lunch and dinner at your own expense.

Begin your exploration of Lhasa with a visit to the magnificent Potala Palace, the city's most recognizable landmark. Rising above the surrounding urban landscape, this monumental palace complex was historically associated with the Dalai Lamas and served as an important center of Tibetan political and religious life. Explore its impressive architecture, traditional halls, sacred spaces and richly decorated interiors while learning about Tibetan Buddhism and the region's history.

Continue to Jokhang Temple, one of the most revered pilgrimage destinations in Tibetan Buddhism. Discover its spiritual atmosphere, traditional architectural details and religious significance as pilgrims gather to pray and perform devotional rituals. Your guide will introduce the temple's role in Tibetan culture and explain the importance of the Buddhist traditions practiced here.

Afterward, stroll along Barkhor Street, the historic circuit surrounding Jokhang Temple. This lively area combines religious devotion with traditional commerce, featuring Tibetan handicrafts, prayer wheels, jewelry, textiles and local souvenirs. Take time to observe daily life, browse the shops and appreciate the distinctive character of Lhasa's old town.

Enjoy an included local lunch before returning to your hotel or spending some additional time exploring nearby streets at a comfortable pace. Dinner is at your own expense.

Accommodation: Thangka Hotel, Lhasa.

Meals: Breakfast and local lunch included for adults; dinner at your own expense.

Today, discover three important sites that reveal different aspects of Tibet's religious, cultural and historical heritage. Begin at Norbulingka, the former summer residence of the Dalai Lamas. Wander through its peaceful gardens, traditional palaces and landscaped grounds, appreciating the combination of Tibetan architecture and natural scenery. The tranquil surroundings provide a pleasant contrast to the bustling streets of central Lhasa.

Continue to Drepung Monastery, historically one of the largest and most influential monasteries in Tibet. Explore its religious halls, courtyards and monastic buildings while learning about Tibetan Buddhist education, spiritual practices and the monastery's important role in the region's religious history.

Later, visit Sera Monastery, another major center of Tibetan Buddhist learning. If the schedule coincides with a debate session, you may have the opportunity to observe monks participating in traditional philosophical debates in the monastery courtyard. Their animated gestures and exchanges make this a particularly engaging way to understand the intellectual traditions of Tibetan Buddhism. Debate sessions are subject to the monastery's schedule and are not guaranteed.

All three attractions include admission tickets according to the tour arrangement. After the visits, return to Thangka Hotel for a relaxing evening. Dinner is at your own expense.

Accommodation: Thangka Hotel, Lhasa.

Meals: Meals not specified as included are at your own expense; dinner is self-arranged.

Enjoy a relaxed morning before your guide and driver accompany you to Lhasa Airport for your flight to Chengdu, the capital of Sichuan Province. Leaving the Tibetan Plateau behind, you will travel to a city renowned for its laid-back lifestyle, rich culinary traditions, historic temples and world-famous giant pandas.

Upon arrival in Chengdu, meet your transfer team and travel to Xizang Hotel Chengdu for check-in. Take the remainder of the day to rest after the flight or begin exploring the neighborhood independently, depending on your arrival time and energy level.

Chengdu is particularly famous for its tea culture and Sichuan cuisine. If time permits, consider visiting a nearby teahouse, enjoying a leisurely walk through local streets or trying regional specialties such as mapo tofu, dan dan noodles or Sichuan-style hot pot. These activities and meals are at your own expense.

Accommodation: Xizang Hotel Chengdu.

Meals: Lunch and dinner at your own expense.

Start the day with a visit to the Chengdu Panda Base, a leading destination for learning about giant pandas and their conservation. Observe these beloved animals in carefully managed habitats and discover more about their behavior, feeding habits, breeding programs and the protection of endangered wildlife. Morning visits are generally preferable for panda activity, although sightings and activity levels vary according to weather, season and animal behavior.

Afterward, enjoy an included local lunch before visiting Wenshu Monastery, one of Chengdu's best-known Buddhist temples. Explore its traditional courtyards, religious halls and peaceful gardens, and experience the quieter spiritual atmosphere that contrasts with the city's busy commercial districts. The surrounding area is also a good place to discover traditional tea culture and local vegetarian food.

Continue to Jinli Street, a popular historic-style pedestrian district inspired by traditional Sichuan architecture. Stroll past wooden storefronts, lanterns, snack stalls and souvenir shops while enjoying the lively atmosphere. You may wish to try local street food, browse handicrafts or take photographs of the traditional-style streetscape.

Return to your hotel after a day combining wildlife, Buddhist heritage and local culture. Dinner is at your own expense, giving you the freedom to explore Chengdu's celebrated food scene.

Accommodation: Xizang Hotel Chengdu.

Meals: Breakfast and local lunch included for adults; dinner at your own expense.

Enjoy some free time in Chengdu for a relaxed breakfast, last-minute shopping or independent exploration, depending on your flight schedule. You may wish to purchase local tea, Sichuan specialties or souvenirs before leaving the city.

At the scheduled time, your guide and driver will accompany you to Chengdu Airport for your flight to Shanghai, China's dynamic international metropolis. Upon arrival, transfer to Golden Tulip New Asia Hotel and complete your check-in.

The rest of the day is free for rest or independent sightseeing. Depending on your arrival time, you may wish to explore nearby shopping streets, discover local cafés or take a gentle evening walk to experience Shanghai's blend of historic architecture and modern urban energy. Lunch and dinner are self-arranged.

Accommodation: Golden Tulip New Asia Hotel, Shanghai.

Meals: Lunch and dinner at your own expense.

Begin the day at Yu Garden, a celebrated classical Chinese garden known for its elegant pavilions, winding pathways, decorative rockeries, traditional bridges and tranquil ponds. Designed in the style of traditional Jiangnan gardens, it offers a glimpse into the aesthetics of historic Chinese landscaping. After exploring the garden, stroll through nearby Yuyuan Market, where traditional-style shops and food stalls sell souvenirs, handicrafts and local snacks.

Continue to a silk workshop to learn about the traditional production of silk, one of China's most important historical industries. Discover how silkworm cocoons are processed into fine threads and transformed into textiles, and learn about the craftsmanship behind this luxurious material. Browse the available silk products if you wish, with purchases at your own expense.

Next, visit Shanghai Museum to discover China's artistic and cultural heritage through collections that may include ancient bronzes, ceramics, calligraphy, paintings and traditional decorative objects. Exhibition availability may vary, so the specific galleries visited will depend on the museum's current arrangements and opening schedule.

Conclude the day at the Bund, Shanghai's iconic waterfront promenade along the Huangpu River. Admire the historic European-style buildings lining the riverfront and the contrasting modern skyline of Pudong across the water. As the light changes toward evening, the area offers excellent opportunities for photography and a memorable introduction to Shanghai's distinctive blend of old and new.

After sightseeing, return to Golden Tulip New Asia Hotel or continue exploring independently. Lunch and dinner are at your own expense.

Accommodation: Golden Tulip New Asia Hotel, Shanghai.

Meals: Lunch and dinner at your own expense.

Enjoy your final morning in Shanghai with breakfast at the hotel before preparing for departure. Depending on your flight or train schedule, you may have some free time to organize your luggage, purchase last-minute souvenirs or take a short walk nearby.

At the scheduled time, your transfer service will take you to the airport or railway station for your onward journey. As your 13-day adventure comes to an end, reflect on the remarkable diversity of experiences you have enjoyed, from Beijing's imperial landmarks and the Great Wall to Xi'an's archaeological treasures, Tibet's sacred monasteries, Chengdu's giant pandas and Shanghai's cosmopolitan waterfront.

We hope this journey has given you a deeper appreciation of China's history, landscapes, regional cultures and everyday life. Thank you for traveling with us, and we wish you a safe and pleasant journey home.

Meals: Breakfast included for adults; lunch at your own expense.

Departure transfer: Airport or railway station drop-off service included according to the tour arrangement.