Trip summary statistics
10days
China Adventure and Panda Highlights
Beijing, Xi'an, Chengdu, Shanghai
Visit Tiananmen Square, the Forbidden City, and the Temple of Heaven with a private guide.
Explore a restored section of the Great Wall and meet Xi’an’s famous Terra-Cotta Warriors.
Meet pandas up close at Chengdu’s Research Center, a sanctuary for breeding and care.
Dine on Jiangsu cuisine, enjoy an acrobat show, then cruise the Huangpu River in Shanghai.
Consult your Destination Expert for top dining recommendations to elevate your journey.
* Please note: USD per person, double occupancy. Custom designed personal tour. Prices subject to change.
A travel experience like no other
This sample itinerary was created by experts and is meant to inspire your next trip. It is ready to be customized to suit your interests, tastes and budget so you can connect with local cultures and experience authentic travel on your own terms and departing whenever you choose.
BeijingThe Adventure Begins
- Airport Meet & Greet
- Airport - Vehicle/Guide/Driver
BeijingA Journey Back in Time
- Tiananmen, Forbidden City & Temple of Heaven (with Lunch, 6-7 hrs) - Private Tour
BeijingCross an Item off the Bucket List
- Great Wall Mutianyu & Summer Palace (with Lunch, 8 hrs) - Private Tour
Beijing to Xi'anEn Route
- Train Station - Vehicle/Guide/Driver
- Train - Beijing - Xi`an [Bullet Train (6hrs)] - First Class/Soft Seat
- Train Station - Vehicle/Guide/Driver
Xi'anIt’s All Ancient History
- Full day Terra Cotta Warriors, City Wall & Pagoda (with Lunch) - Private Tour
Xi'an to ChengduA Change of Scenery
- Train Station - Vehicle/Guide/Driver
- Train - Xi`an - Chengdu [Bullet Train (4hrs)] - First Class
- Train Station - Vehicle/Guide/Driver
- Evening Out in Chengdu with Hotpot Dinner - Private
ChengduClose Encounters
- Pandas & Chengdu Tea Culture with Lunch - Private
Chengdu to ShanghaiOnward and Upward
- Airport - Vehicle/Guide/Driver
- Chengdu - Shanghai [(3hrs)] - Economy
- Airport (Hongqiao Domestic) - Vehicle/Guide/Driver
- Shanghai Acrobatic Show and Dinner at Ye Shanghai
ShanghaiExplore a City of Contrasts
- Bund Cruise, Jade Buddha Temple, Oriental Pearl & Yu Gardens with Lunch (8 hrs) - Private
ShanghaiBon Voyage
- Airport (PVG) - Vehicle/Guide/Driver
BEIJING
The Adventure Begins
To ensure a seamless experience, your guide will be waiting for you outside the secure customs area with a sign with your name on it. The guide will assist you in meeting up with your private driver and accompany you to your accommodation.
Enjoy a private transfer between the airport and your hotel with an English-speaking guide.
Where you’ll be staying
Classic Room
BEIJING
A Journey Back in Time
Spend the day exploring three of Beijing’s most photographed sites with your private guide and driver. Head to the center of the city and begin with a walk across the sprawling expanse of Tiananmen Square. Built in 1417 during the Ming Dynasty and serving as the front door to the Forbidden City, the present square is one of the largest in the world, stretching a vast 44 square hectares. Here, walk past and featuring the Tiananmen Tower, Monument to the People’s Heroes, Great Hall of the People, and the Mao Zedong Memorial. Many historically important moments have unfolded in this public setting.
From here, cross the street and enter through the towering gates of the Forbidden City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with the largest number of preserved ancient wooden structures in the world. The expansive palace complex is comprised of 9,999 buildings spread across 74 hectares and protected by a 19-foot deep moat and a 32-foot tall wall, divided into two parts. The Outer Court was where the emperor exercised his supreme power over the nation, while the Inner Court was where he lived with his royal family. Twenty-four emperors from the Ming and Qing dynasties reigned over China from the Imperial Palace here until 1924. Stop for lunch at a local restaurant.
Next, drive to the Temple of Heaven, a serene space set amidst expansive gardens, and a popular spot for locals and travelers alike. With your private guide and driver, head to this urban oasis UNESCO World Heritage Site, originally constructed in 1420 during the Ming Dynasty to offer a sacrifice to Heaven in exchange for a bountiful harvest. The most magnificent buildings are The Circular Mound Altar (Yuanqiutan), Imperial Vault of Heaven (Huangqiongyu), and Hall of Prayer for Good Harvest (Qiniandian), which are connected by a wide bridge called the Sacred Way. The park grounds surrounding the park are a popular local mingling spot, and it is quite common to see people practicing Tai Chi amidst the green space.
Today’s tour involves a fair amount of walking at a leisurely pace. Comfortable walking shoes and adequate protection from the sun are highly recommended.
Where you’ll be staying
Classic Room
BEIJING
Cross an Item off the Bucket List
Spend the day exploring two of Beijing’s most visually captivating sites with your private guide and driver. Start the day with a visit to the Summer Palace, which dates to the 12th century, and this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a vast imperial encampment of temples, ornate pavilions, and halls set in a park around Kunming Lake. Occupying an area of 294 hectares, three-quarters of which is water, the compound features a sprawling archetypal Chinese garden that is ranked amongst the most noted gardens in the world and a truly picturesque setting to explore. The Long Corridor is a must-see – this covered walkway is decorated with more than 14,000 lavish paintings.
Then drive out of the city to take in the awe-inspiring Mutianyu section of the Great Wall, located 45 miles northeast of the city. By far China’s most iconic architectural wonder, it captivates the imagination of generations of travelers intrigued by this feat of engineering. This well-preserved section winds along lofty, cragged mountains for 1.4 miles and holds a prominent place in Chinese military history. Construction began during the 6th century Northern Qi Dynasty, and it was restored in the early years of the Ming Dynasty (spanning from the 14th to 17th century).
An abundance of natural springs in the area give this section of the Great Wall a lush verdant ecosystem, and the rolling forested hills make for an impressive panoramic photo regardless of the time of year. Take a cable car to the top of the hillside to explore the 26-foot-high granite walls. The 22 watchtowers stretch along the top of the mountain ridge as far as the eye can see, an impressive military barrier against invading forces from the north. Today’s lunch will be had at a local restaurant near the Great Wall. If you are interested and traffic permits, it is possible to stop for a quick photo at the 2008 Olympic sites of the Bird's Nest and Water Cube along the drive.
Today’s tour involves a fair amount of walking at a leisurely pace. Comfortable walking shoes and adequate protection from the sun are highly recommended.
Where you’ll be staying
Classic Room
BEIJING TO XI'AN
En Route
Enjoy a private transfer between the train station and your hotel with an English-speaking guide.
Transfer from Beijing to Xi'an via the high-speed bullet train. The train ride is approximately 6 hours.
Enjoy a private transfer between the train station and your hotel with an English-speaking guide.
Where you’ll be staying
Luxury
XI'AN
It’s All Ancient History
The Terracotta Warriors are the most iconic site in Xi’an, an impressive marvel that went undiscovered until 1974. With your private driver and English-speaking guide, spend the day visiting the Terracotta Warriors, the Ancient City Wall and the Big Wild Goose Pagoda. The incredible army of over 7000 soldiers, archers, horses, and chariots in full battle array has guarded Emperor Qin’s tomb since 210 BC. Incredibly, each figure is unique, and the painstaking repair and excavation continues in 3 pits, protected inside enormous hangars specially constructed for the archaeological dig.
Stop for a local lunch before returning to the city center to visit the Ancient City Wall. The walls, ramparts, gates, and watchtowers form one of the oldest and most complete city defenses are still around. Built in the 13th-century on the foundations of the original Tang Forbidden City surrounding the city center you can walk, rent a bike or take an electric cart around the full 8.5-mile circuit, with great views of the city on either side and a deep moat surrounding the fortifications. Next, visit the Big Wild Goose Pagoda. An important Buddhist site, the simple and elegant Pagoda is housed on the grounds of the attractive Da Ci’en Temple. The Pagoda was built in the 7th century to house the Buddhist materials that Xuanzang (Tripitaka) brought back from his epic world-famous 16-year pilgrimage to India. The Temple complex has several large halls with some great Buddhist statues and murals. At the end of the day, return to your hotel by private vehicle.
Where you’ll be staying
Luxury
XI'AN TO CHENGDU
A Change of Scenery
Enjoy a private transfer between the train station and your hotel with an English-speaking guide.
Transfer from Xi'an to Chengdu via the high-speed bullet train. The train ride is approximately 4 hours.
Meet your driver for a train station transfer with a private vehicle and English speaking guide.
Enjoy a lovely evening out in Chengdu starting with a Hotpot dinner at Huangchenglaoma, and walking through Broad and Narrow Street.
Where you’ll be staying
Deluxe City View Room
CHENGDU
Close Encounters
Enjoy a full day private guided Chengdu tour, starting with a half-day trip to the Panda Research Center. The center was designed to imitate the pandas' natural habitat in order to provide the best possible environment for rearing and breeding. After watching and observing the pandas, travel to Chengdu's traditional Jinli Street for a local lunch. After your meal, you will visit a local tea house to experience one of the most vibrant and ancient tea cultures in the world. Lunch is included.
Where you’ll be staying
Deluxe City View Room
CHENGDU TO SHANGHAI
Onward and Upward
Meet your driver for an airport transfer with a private vehicle and English speaking guide.
Board a flight with direct service from Chengdu to Shanghai. Approximate flight time is 3 hours.
Meet your driver for an airport transfer with a private vehicle and English speaking guide.
The Shanghai Acrobatic Troupe has garnered international fame, with dazzling displays that seem to defy the laws of gravity. This evening, your private guide and driver will pick you up at your hotel for your dinner reservation at Ye Shanghai before the show. Housed in a renovated Shikumen style house, the restaurant embraces the cuisine of neighboring Jiangsu and Zhejiang provinces. From here, drive to the theater and settle into your seats with the help of your guide. The multimillion-dollar performance is a testament to traditional Chinese acrobatic arts, featuring stunning costumes, modern technology, and original live music during the show. The acrobats undergo years of rigorous training, starting as young as six or seven. Many performers boast 20 years of experience. After the memorable performance, transfer back to your hotel by private vehicle.
Where you’ll be staying
Standard Room
SHANGHAI
Explore a City of Contrasts
Spend the day visiting some of Shanghai’s must-see sites with your private guide and driver, contrasting traditional Chinese elements with the rapidly evolving iconic skyline that line the Huangpu River. The Oriental Pearl Tower rises up from the river, a distinct landmark surrounded by the Yangpu Bridge in the northeast and the Nanpu Bridge in the southwest, creating the image of ‘twin dragons playing with pearls’. The scene is the dramatic backdrop against the Pudong business district, with stunning views of the Shanghai Tower and Shanghai World Financial Center, along with the colonial European-inspired buildings across the river. Enjoy the sprawling cityscape atop this 1,535-foot tall tower, the world’s sixth tallest TV and radio tower and the second tallest in China. Cruise along the river for one hour along the mighty Huangpu River and disembark amidst the splendid architecture that lines the Bund.
Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant showcasing Shanghai’s cuisine, then drive to the Jade Buddha Temple, one of the most famous Buddhist shrines in Shanghai. The statue was brought to China from neighboring Myanmar in the late 19th century, and the temple itself was destroyed during the revolution that overthrew the Qing Dynasty. The current temple was erected in 1928 to protect the jade statues inside. Next, drive to the Yu Gardens, the largest of Shanghai’s ancient gardens, dating to the mid-16th century. The expansive grounds feature the architectural styles of the Ming and Qing Dynasties, with six pavilions each with their own unique design, laid out in the Suzhou style. The Grand Rockery in the center of the garden is a popular photo stop, with replica peaks, cliffs and caves. The Yu Gardens are a year-round delightful retreat from Shanghai’s frenetic pace, as the changing seasons offer a different experience and a moment of quiet contemplation. Adjacent to the gardens is the City God Temple, surrounded by a network of local snack vendors and souvenir shops that make for a colorful walk into the Yu Garden. At the end of the day, return to your hotel by private vehicle.
Where you’ll be staying
Standard Room
SHANGHAI
Bon Voyage
Meet your driver for an airport transfer with a private vehicle and English speaking guide.
Where you’ll be staying
Int'l Airport
BEIJING
Regent Hotel
Cocooned amidst the labyrinthine alleyways or ‘hutongs’ once meticulously planned by the Emperors of China, the Regent Beijing Hotel near Forbidden City has become a landmark in the region which formed the centerpiece of the Middle Kingdom. Deep in the core of the historic quarter and a short distance from must-see cultural markers such as Tiananmen Square and the Temple of Heaven, the sensuous beat of traditional Chinese hospitality combines with a cutting-edge design to create an oasis of tranquility and a modern icon in a luxurious home away from home. Meticulously-designed in classic style yet reflecting contemporary convenience, the hotel’s rooms and suites offer the best in 21st century hotel luxury without sacrificing traditional Chinese elegance. This unique property features a business facility, a state-of-the-art Fitness Centre, a 25-metre indoor pool and a Wellness Spa which effortlessly exceeds current luxury hotel standards. This Forbidden City hotel is famed for treating its guests with courtesy and respect.
XI'AN
Sofitel on Renmin Square
The heritage of Xian and the classic French hospitality of Sofitel combine to creature the stunning Sofitel Xian on Renmin Square. Welcoming travelers to the heart of the city, the hotel is located very centrally within the Xian city walls near many historical sites including the Bell Tower, Drum Tower, Great Mosque, and Forest of Steles. Additionally, the airport and Terra Cotta Warriors are both a 45-minute drive away. All guest rooms are adorned with modern conveniences, indulging your senses within a chic design that perfectly complements your stay. Explore Mediterranean flavors and Moroccan, Chinese, Brazilian, and Japanese cuisines from the various selections of elegant restaurants in addition to two bars and lounges. For more leisurely pursuits, guests can enjoy the services of Touch Spa with the swimming pool Jacuzzi and state-of-the-art fitness center.
CHENGDU
Shangri-La Hotel Chengdu
Being one of the Chengdu hotels located in the city's cosmopolitan Jinjiang District, Shangri-La Hotel, Chengdu enjoys spectacular views of the Jinjiang River. The hotel sits adjacent to the stylish 30-storey Shangri-La Centre, making the hotel and office complex a landmark in one of China's most modern and affluent cities. The hotel consists of luxurious and spacious guestrooms and suites, along with 26 serviced apartments that cater to the unique needs of long-term guests. Boasting Chengdu's largest and most advanced conference facilities, and 25 minutes from Shuangliu International Airport, the hotel is ideal for leisure travellers.
SHANGHAI
Indigo Hotel on The Bund
Discover the story of Shiliupu Dock in the unique design of the riverfront Indigo Hotel on The Bund. Shanghai's grand waterfront provides the picturesque setting for Indigo Hotel on The Bund. The lobby's eclectic sculptures bring artefacts reclaimed from historic Shiliupu Dock to life, and the swirling feature wall mirrors the flow of Huangpu River. Take in the scenery from your individually styled room, the contemporary fitness center or the river view infinity pool. Shiliupu Dock's shops and restaurants are on the doorstep of the hotel. Get to know the area with a stroll past the colonial buildings of The Bund or the Ming pavilions at Yu Garden. Indigo Hotel on The Bund is a 10 minute walk from the Pudong ferry and 45 minutes' drive from Shanghai Pudong International Airport. The iconic Char Bar and Grill at Indigo Hotel on The Bund evokes the glamour of old Shanghai while your spa bathroom's dÉcor reflects Pudong's skyline. Find peace in the library at Quay and share authentic dumplings from the eclectic cafÉ menu. Indigo Hotel on The Bund is your doorway to China's global city.
SHANGHAI
Depart
Depart from Shanghai international airport - end of itinerary.
Made to Order
- Choose from a range of places to stay, from impeccable five-star hotels to equally outstanding boutique ones.
- Tailor your trip to include a wide variety of activities, from the must-see's to the lesser-known, local experiences, and even the exclusive ones you may not know about.
- With no fixed dates or set schedules, you can explore on your terms.
- Whether you're celebrating one of life's big moments or looking to fulfill a personal journey, we always work with you to ensure we're creating a trip-of-a-lifetime.
What's included
- A fully customized itinerary based on your interests and schedule
- 24/7 in-destination support from our local office
- Regional flights between stops in your itinerary (unless otherwise indicated)
- All accommodation stays, tours and transfers for scheduled activities are covered, unless otherwise listed in the itinerary
- A private driver for tours and transfers (in some countries our local private guides also act as your driver - your Destination Expert will discuss with you if applicable)
- Local private guides or shared tours that take you through your itinerary highlights and experiences, your final itinerary will confirm the type of tour
- A greeting at the airport or at your accommodation from one of our representatives – your expert will confirm your meet and greet location with you
- Breakfast each morning at your hotel, plus any meals indicated in the itinerary
- One suitcase and one carry-on per person for trip transfers
What's not included
- Your international airfare – please do let your expert know if you'd like to receive pricing from our Air Team
- Travel insurance, which we offer and can be purchased after you've booked your tour
- Visas (unless noted)
- Tips for services and experiences
- Lunches, dinners and drinks (alcoholic and non-alcoholic), unless specified in the itinerary
- Excess baggage charges, and where applicable, baggage not included in your fare
- Personal charges such as laundry, phone calls, SIM cards or room service
- Early check-in or late check-out from hotels (unless otherwise specified)
- Additional sightseeing, activities and experiences outside of your itinerary
- Optional enhancements like room or flight upgrades, or local camera or video fees
- Passport fees, immunization costs, and local departure taxes (when applicable)
Protect your travel
- We recommend travel protection. Between missed connections, lost or delayed luggage, or medical emergencies, you want some peace of mind that your travel investment is well protected.
- No matter who you buy from, please consider purchasing a travel protection plan before you travel. Still unsure? Consider these frequently asked questions.








