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14 Days Ancient China Middle Kingdom and Yangtze River Cruise to Coast Tour

Destinations: Beijing - Xi'An - Chongqing - Suzhou - Shanghai
Sights: The Forbidden City in Beijing, Mutianyu Great Wall in Beijing, Tiantan Temple of Heaven in Beijing, The Museum of Qin Terra-cotta Warriors and Horses, Xi'an Ancient City Wall Fortifications, Giant Wild Goose Pagoda Xi'an, Great Mosque of Xi'An, Yangtze River Cruise Ships from Chongqing to Yichang, Hongya Cave Chongqing Hongyadong, Chongqing Ciqikou Ancient Town, Suzhou Silk Museum in Jiangsu, Panmen Gate of Suzhou Ancient City in Jiangsu, Lingering Garden in Suzhou Jiangsu, Humble Administrator's Garden in Suzhou Jiangsu, Shanghai Old Concession Areas, Shanghai Jin Mao Tower
Embark on a journey that traverses China's imperial past and dynamic present. Begin in Beijing, the Forbidden City and Great Wall whisper tales of ancient power, then travel to Xi'an to stand before the legions of terracotta warriors. Cruise through the dramatic Three Gorges, sheer cliffs and tranquil waters reveal nature's artistry, with Chongqing's mountainous energy as the gateway. Descend to Shanghai's futuristic skyline along the Huangpu River, and conclude in Suzhou, a city of classical gardens and winding canals. This route weaves together millennia of history, diverse landscapes, and vibrant urban life, offering a rich tapestry of Chinese civilization.
Day by Day Itenerary Expand All

Day 1Arrival / Beijing

Upon arrive in Beijing, the capital of China, where ancient history and modern energy meet. Start your China journey.

Traffic:airplane
Hotel:4 Star

Day 2Beijing

Visiting Sites:The Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square, Beijing Hutongs, Paper Cutting

Today's tour starts with a visit to Tian'anmen Square, which is a public space, that hosts national ceremonies and cultural events.

Then step into Forbidden City, is a vast imperial palace complex from the Ming and Qing dynasties. It features traditional Chinese architecture with numerous halls, courtyards, and cultural artifacts, representing centuries of history.

After that, take a stroll through Beijing’s hutongs. Then will go to learn Paper Cutting. Chinese paper cutting, or jianzhi, is a folk art using scissors or knives to create patterns from paper. Originating in the 6th century, it was inscribed on the UNESCO Representative List in 2009. Learn and experience this special activity, and take pleasure in the process.

Options: Beijing Roast Duck for dinner.

Traffic:Private Transfer
Meal: Breakfast
Hotel:4 Star

Day 3Beijing

Visiting Sites: Mutianyu Great Wall, Sacred Road, Overview the Bird’s Nest and Water Cube

In the morning, transfer you to visit Mutianyu Great Wall. Walk along ancient ramparts, admire unique watchtowers, and enjoy panoramic mountain views. Accessible by cable car, it's a rewarding journey for those seeking both culture and natural beauty. Or, if you want, just hiking up and down.

After Great Wall, you will go to visit The Sacred Road, a historic avenue guarded by remarkable stone statues. This picturesque path provides a gentle introduction to the Ming Tombs.

After a day of sightseeing, you will be transferred back to Beijing city center. You will also overview Water Cube and Bird's Nest on the way. Which are two of the 2008 Beijing Olympics Venues.

Traffic:Private Transfer
Meal: Breakfast
Hotel:4 Star

Day 4Beijing/Xian

Visiting Sites: Temple of Heaven

Explore the Temple of Heaven at first, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The Temple of Heaven, a masterpiece of harmony. The Temple of Heaven, with its iconic circular Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests, was where emperors prayed for divine blessings. Its elegant design and serene gardens reflect ancient Chinese philosophy and architectural genius.

Then you will end your Beijing tour, transfer you to catch high speed train to Xian, another of China's ancient capitals. Start your next discovery.

Traffic:High-speed Railway
Meal: Breakfast
Hotel:4 Star

Day 5Xian

Visiting Sites: Terracotta Warriors & Horses, the Wild Goose Pagoda, The Grand Tang Mall

Your guide will meet you in the hotel and you will be driven to visit the incredible Terracotta Warriors. This fascinating museum showcases thousands of unique clay soldiers and horses. A breathtaking to see and a true wonder of the ancient world.  

Then back to Xian city, visit the Wild Goose Pagoda. The Giant Wild Goose Pagoda, constructed in 652 AD during the Tang Dynasty, is a masterpiece of Buddhist architecture.

When night falls, it is the right time to visit The Grand Tang Mall, which also been called as "Tang Dynasty Ever-bright City". This vibrant cultural street comes alive at night with brilliant lights, replica Tang architecture, and lively performances. Stroll through the grand promenade, enjoy street shows, and feel the energy of a modern revival of China's golden age.

Traffic:Private Transfer
Meal: Breakfast
Hotel:4 Star

Day 6Xi'an/ Chongqing

Visiting Sites: Muslim Quarter, Grand Mosque, Xian Ancient City Wall

You will pay a morning visit Muslim Quarter which is a bustling food paradise where narrow lanes are filled with the aroma of sizzling snacks and local delicacies. Just a few steps away, discover the serene Great Mosque, a beautiful architectural gem blending Chinese and Islamic styles within its peaceful gardens.

Then, experience the iconic Xi'an City Wall. Rent a bicycle for a memorable ride along its wide, ancient path. Admire the city views, watchtowers, and gates etc.,

After visiting you will be driven to airport for the flight to Chongqing. Chongqing, is known as the "Mountain City." It sits where the Jialing River meets the Yangtze. Famous for its spicy hot pot, it is a major economic and transportation hub with a unique, hilly landscape.

Traffic:High-speed Railway
Meal: Breakfast
Hotel:4 Star

Day 7Chongqing

Sites Visited: Sanxia Museum, Liziba Light Rail Station, Hongya Cave, Ciqikou Ancient Town.

After visiting, will meet you then go to visit Sanxia Museum, Liziba Light Rail Station, Hongya Cave, Ciqikou Ancient Town.

After visiting will transfer you to port on board for Yangtze River Cruise. Overnight on boat.

 

Traffic:Private Transfer
Meal: Breakfast
Hotel:5 Star

Day 8Yangtze River Cruise

On this day you will have a shore excursion to visit "Shuanggui Mountain". And the optional is to visit the “Fengdu Ghost City”.

In the night will have the Captain’s Welcome reception, and the buffet dinner.

Traffic:Boat
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Hotel:5 Star

Day 9Yangtze River Cruise

Today will enter the Three Gorges; will pass through Qutang Gorge and Wu Gorge, the first two. Then relax excursion the Goddess Stream. Depending the River condition, will may also have chance to visit Shennong Stream. The optional program is going to visit White Emperor City.

Captain’s farewell dinner.

Traffic:Boat
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Hotel:5 Star

Day 10Yangtze River Cruise/ Yichang/ Shanghai

Sites Visited: The Three Gorges Dam, The Three Travelers Cave, Yiling Square

In the morning you will disembark to visit The Three Gorges Dam. This Dam is incredible. From the observation area of the dam, you can learn about the dam's construction and get great photos of the dam itself.

You will then head to Yichang, where your guide will meet you and you will go to visit The Three Travelers Cave, and Yiling Square.

After visiting will transfer you to Yichang airport to catch flight to Shanghai. Shanghai, a major global financial center on China's eastern coast. As a key port and commercial hub, its dynamic streets blend historic lanes with modern development.

Traffic:airplane
Meal: Breakfast
Hotel:4 Star

Day 11Shanghai

Sites Visited: City God Temple, Shanghai Old Concession Area(Shikumen), Shanghai Museum, Shanghai Jinmao Tower, The Bund

Today will be whole day to explore Shanghai city.

Explore Shanghai's iconic Shikumen. Stroll through restored lanes like Xintiandi, where traditional stone gates now house cafes and boutiques. This offers a pleasant glimpse into the city's architectural heritage and its blend of historical charm with contemporary urban life.

The Jin Mao Tower in Shanghai is a prominent skyscraper on Lujiazui’s skyline. Completed in 1999, this 88-story mixed-use building harmoniously blends modern architecture with Chinese pagoda-inspired design. Visitors to the Jin Mao Tower can ascend to its skywalk for an open-air experience or the observation deck on the 88th floor. From this vantage point, sweeping views of the Huangpu River and the city's modern architectural cluster create a memorable urban panorama.

Today will end to walk around the famous The Bund.

Traffic:Private Transfer
Meal: Breakfast
Hotel:4 Star

Day 12Shanghai/ Suzhou

Sites Visited: Lingering Garden(Liuyuan), Suzhou Silk Museum, Panmen Gate, Shantang Street.

Today will drive you to Suzhou, Suzhou is known for its classical gardens and canal networks, and the Silk industry.

Wander through winding corridors and discover peaceful courtyards at Lingering Garden. Pause by the lotus pond, admire ancient trees, and observe the interplay of light and shadow. This Suzhou garden offers a quiet escape and a glimpse into classical Chinese aesthetics.

Watch silk being spun by hand and explore halls filled with exquisite brocade. The museum offers a quiet, engaging look at Suzhou’s textile heritage—from silkworm to finished fabric.

Walk along ancient city walls at Panmen, where canals and gates meet. Cross the stone bridge, view the pagoda framed by willows, and imagine boats passing through the water gate. This tranquil site offers a quiet window into Suzhou’s layered history beyond its gardens.

Traffic:Private Transfer
Meal: Breakfast
Hotel:4 Star

Day 13Suzhou/Shanghai

Sites Visited: Humble Administrator's Garden, Zhouzhuang Water Town

Start to visit in the morning. The Humble Administrator's Garden covering 5.2 hectares . Built in the Ming Dynasty, this UNESCO World Heritage site features water as its central element, with pavilions and halls arranged around ponds.

After visiting will drive you to visit famous Water Town, the Zhouzhuang Water Town. Zhouzhuang, a historic water town near Shanghai, is known as the "Venice of the East." With over 900 years of history, it features ancient bridges, traditional residences, and canals, preserving the charm of classical Jiangnan water towns.

Finish today explore, will drive you back to Shanghai city for overnight.

 

Traffic:Private Transfer
Meal: Breakfast
Hotel:4 Star

Day 14Shanghai/ Exit

See you off at the Shanghai Airport, based on your final departure flight time.

Traffic:airplane
Meal: Breakfast

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Verification code
Tour Code
MCT-1ACN-006
Tour Length
14 days
Tour Start
Beijing
Tour End
Shanghai
Tour Rating
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