11 Days Beijing Xi'an Zhangjiajie Shanghai Tour

Your journey into the heart of Beijing begins as your ACT guide meets you in the hotel lobby for a day of world-renowned wonders. The morning starts at the Temple of Heaven, a masterpiece of Ming Dynasty architecture where emperors once performed solemn rituals for a bountiful harvest. Beyond the stunning circular altars, you will witness the vibrant energy of local life as seniors practice Tai Chi, square dancing, and traditional chess in the surrounding park. Next, escape the crowds for a walk through an authentic, less-commercial Hutong. Within the quiet walls of a traditional Chinese courtyard, you will engage in a hands-on Peking Opera facial mask painting session—a creative dive into the symbolism of China’s most famous performing art.

After savoring a local lunch of authentic Beijing flavors, your afternoon continues at Tian'anmen Square, the monumental heart of modern China and a witness to the nation's history. From here, you will walk directly into the Forbidden City, the world's largest and best-preserved imperial palace complex. For over two hours, you will wander through grand golden-roofed halls and secluded royal gardens, uncovering the legends of the 24 emperors who once ruled from within these walls. The day culminates at the Red Theater with a high-energy Chinese Kung Fu Show, featuring breathtaking martial arts and dramatic storytelling. Your immersion into Beijing's treasure trove concludes with a private transfer back to your hotel.

Accommodations: Overnight in Beijing.

Expert Travel Advice for Today:
To truly capture the essence of this busy day, we recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes as the Forbidden City alone covers over 180 acres of stone-paved courtyards. Since the Temple of Heaven is at its most authentic in the early morning, your guide will prioritize an early start to catch the local community in their most active and spirited state. We also suggest keeping your camera ready during the Hutong walk for candid shots of traditional courtyard life that many tourists miss. While the Kung Fu Show is a spectacular way to end the evening, the Red Theater can be cool due to air conditioning, so a light layer or scarf is advisable. Regarding the Forbidden City, your guide will strategically navigate the crowds to highlight the most intricate architectural details and hidden treasures, but please note that a certain level of physical stamina is required for this deep-dive exploration of the imperial past.

Prepare for an exhilarating day as your guide meets you in the early morning for a journey to China's most iconic landmark: the Mutianyu Great Wall. Located about two hours from downtown Beijing, this section is celebrated for its breathtaking scenery and beautifully restored watchtowers. Originally constructed in the mid-6th century during the Northern Qi Dynasty, Mutianyu offers a more historic and less crowded experience than other sections. You will have ample time to hike along the rugged ridges, taking in the panoramic views of the surrounding mountains that stretch toward the horizon.

After a revitalizing lunch at a local restaurant at the foot of the wall, we will drive back to the city. Upon reaching the capital, we will make a specialized photo stop at the Bird's Nest (National Stadium) and the Water Cube (National Aquatics Center). These architectural marvels, built for the 2008 Summer Olympics, represent the futuristic side of modern Beijing. Your tour concludes with a private transfer back to your hotel. As the evening is free, your guide will be happy to recommend the finest local restaurants to enjoy a traditional Peking Roast Duck feast.

Accommodations: Overnight in Beijing.

Expert Travel Advice for Today:
To maximize your enjoyment of the Great Wall, we recommend bringing a light jacket even in warmer months, as the breeze at the summit can be quite refreshing. For those who prefer a more leisurely ascent, cable car and chairlift options are available to whisk you to the top watchtowers, while a popular and fun toboggan ride offers an exciting way to descend. We suggest bringing a few snacks and a bottle of water for the hike, although your private vehicle will be well-stocked with refreshments. Regarding the Olympic site photo stop, the best angles for photography are often found from across the street to capture the full scale of the Bird's Nest. If you plan to try Peking Roast Duck tonight, please let your guide know so they can help you secure a reservation at a reputable local establishment, as the most popular restaurants often book up early.

After checking out of your hotel, your final morning in Beijing is dedicated to the Summer Palace, the largest and most exquisitely preserved imperial garden in China. Centered around the serene Kunming Lake and the majestic Longevity Hill, this UNESCO World Heritage site served as a luxurious summer retreat for the royal family. You can choose to enjoy a tranquil boat ride across the lake for a unique perspective of the temples and pavilions, or wander along the Long Corridor—the longest of its kind in the world—to admire the thousands of intricate paintings that adorn its wooden beams.

Following a local lunch, you will be transferred to the Beijing West Railway Station to board a modern high-speed train bound for Xi'an. During the smooth 5 to 5.5-hour journey, you can enjoy the changing landscapes of rural China from the comfort of your second-class seat. Upon arrival in Xi'an, the ancient eastern terminus of the Silk Road, your ACT guide will be waiting at the station exit with a personalized signboard to transfer you to your hotel. The remainder of the evening is yours to relax or begin exploring the vibrant streets of this historic city.

Accommodations: Overnight in Xi'an.

Expert Travel Advice for Today:
The Summer Palace involves a fair amount of walking, so we recommend keeping your comfortable shoes on for this final Beijing exploration. For the high-speed train journey, while there is a dining car on board and a trolley service for snacks, the options are often limited to local Chinese flavors; you may wish to grab some of your favorite snacks or a sandwich at the railway station before boarding. Your guide will assist you with the luggage security check at the station, which is a standard procedure in China. Once you arrive in Xi'an, if you are feeling energetic, we highly recommend a late-evening stroll near the Bell and Drum Towers, as the ancient city center is beautifully illuminated at night and offers a completely different atmosphere from the capital.

Your exploration of this ancient capital begins at the Xi'an City Wall, the most complete and best-preserved city wall in China. Rising above the modern city, this landmark offers a unique perspective on Xi'an's layout; you may choose to cycle along its massive ramparts for a panoramic view. While atop the wall, you will participate in an immersive Tai Chi Chuan course led by a professional master. This graceful martial art, rooted in the philosophies of Taoism and Buddhism, provides a serene window into the spiritual heritage of Chinese culture.

En route to the city's most famous archaeological site, we will stop at a traditional Pottery Workshop. Here, you will go behind the scenes to see how the ancient figures were crafted and even have the chance to try your hand at creating your own pottery warrior. After a local lunch, the afternoon is dedicated to the legendary Terracotta Warriors and Horses. You will spend ample time exploring the three vast pits, marveling at the thousands of life-sized soldiers, horses, and chariots that have stood guard over Emperor Qin Shi Huang's mausoleum for over 2,000 years. Your tour concludes with a transfer back to your hotel, where your guide can provide recommendations for evening highlights like the Tang Dynasty Dinner Show.

Accommodations: Overnight in Xi'an.

Expert Travel Advice for Today:
For the morning on the City Wall, if you choose to bicycle, please be aware that the stone-paved surface can be a bit bumpy, so take your time and enjoy the ride. The Tai Chi session is designed for all fitness levels, but wearing loose-fitting clothing will help you move more freely during the practice. At the Terracotta Warriors, the site is vast and requires significant walking; your guide will help you navigate to the best viewing spots to avoid the largest crowds, particularly in Pit 1. We highly recommend bringing a zoom lens or binoculars to appreciate the unique facial expressions and intricate armor details on the individual statues. Finally, if you are interested in the Tang Dynasty Show for the evening, please consult your guide early in the day so they can assist with tickets and transport, as this colorful performance of music and dance is a popular way to experience Xi'an's golden age.

Enjoy a relaxing morning to explore Xi'an at your own pace before checking out of your hotel at midday. After a delicious local lunch, we will visit the elegant Small Wild Goose Pagoda, a quintessential masterpiece of Tang Dynasty Buddhist architecture. Unlike its larger counterpart, this site offers a more tranquil atmosphere within the grounds of the Jianfu Temple. While here, you can explore the Xi'an Museum, which houses a vast collection of Silk Road treasures, and experience a charming performance of traditional shadow play—a centuries-old folk art that brings ancient legends to life through intricate silhouettes.

In the evening, you will be transferred to the airport for a short flight to Zhangjiajie. Nestled in the northwestern reaches of Hunan Province, Zhangjiajie is a natural labyrinth of towering sandstone pillars and mist-shrouded peaks that famously served as the inspiration for the floating mountains in the movie Avatar. Upon arrival, our local team will greet you and transfer you to your hotel in the downtown area, where you can rest before your mountain adventure begins.

Accommodations: Overnight in Zhangjiajie.

Expert Travel Advice for Today:
The Small Wild Goose Pagoda is a wonderful place for photography, especially with the contrast between the ancient brick structures and the lush temple gardens. If you are interested in history, the Xi'an Museum is a hidden gem that is much less crowded than the main provincial museum, allowing for a more intimate look at the city's golden age. For your night flight to Zhangjiajie, we recommend packing a light jacket in your carry-on, as temperatures in the mountainous Hunan region can be significantly cooler than in the dry plains of Xi'an. Once you arrive in Zhangjiajie, please note that while the downtown area is convenient for your first night, the following days will take you deeper into the national park areas where the landscape becomes truly spectacular. We suggest getting a good night's rest tonight to prepare for the hiking and exploration ahead.

Prepare for a breathtaking day as you ascend Tianmen Mountain, a destination famous for its dramatic peaks and engineering marvels. Your exploration begins with a ride on the Tianmen Mountain Cable Car, one of the longest in the world, offering bird's-eye views of the winding 99-Bend Road below. Test your courage on the Glass Skywalk, a transparent path clinging to the cliffside 4,700 feet above sea level, before visiting the serene Tianmen Temple and the exquisite Bonsai Garden. The highlight of the day is standing before the majestic Tianmen Cave (Heaven's Gate), a massive natural water-eroded hole that pierces the mountain, creating a gateway between earth and sky.

On the return journey, we will visit the Tujia Minority Custom Park. This cultural landmark offers an authentic look into the life of the Tujia people, featuring traditional stilted wooden houses and vibrant folk art unique to the Hunan highlands. The evening is yours to enjoy at leisure in the city, or you may choose to attend the spectacular "Fairy Fox" (Tianmen Huxian) night show—a grand outdoor musical set against the natural backdrop of the mountains, blending local legends with dazzling stage effects.

Accommodations: Overnight in Zhangjiajie.

Expert Travel Advice for Today:
Tianmen Mountain is a high-altitude destination where weather conditions can change rapidly; we strongly recommend dressing in layers and bringing a windproof jacket, even if it feels warm at the base. The Glass Skywalk requires special shoe covers (usually provided for a small fee) to protect the glass, so please follow the staff's instructions for a safe experience. If you have a fear of heights, please inform your guide, as there are alternative paths that avoid the transparent sections. For the "Fairy Fox" show in the evening, the theater is outdoors, so a light sweater is advisable for the cool mountain air. We also suggest ensuring your camera or phone is fully charged, as the cable car ride and the 999 steps leading to Heaven's Gate provide some of the most iconic photography opportunities in all of China.

Today, you will venture into the heart of the Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, beginning with an exhilarating ascent on the Bailong Elevator. As the world's tallest outdoor elevator, it whisks you up the cliffside in seconds, revealing the stunning vistas of the Yuanjiajie Scenic Area. This is the world-famous inspiration for the "Hallelujah Mountains" in the movie Avatar. You will walk along the cliff-hanging trails to witness the "First Bridge under Heaven," a remarkable natural stone bridge spanning two skyscraper-like peaks.

Following your exploration of Yuanjiajie, a shuttle bus will take you to the Tianzi Mountain Nature Reserve. Known as the "Monarch of the Peak Forest," Tianzi Mountain offers breathtaking views of thousands of jagged peaks rising from deep valleys. If the weather permits, you may witness the ethereal "Sea of Clouds" that makes the landscape look like a traditional Chinese ink painting. Your adventure concludes with a charming ride on the Ten-mile Gallery small train, a scenic journey through a 5-kilometer valley lined with unique rock formations and lush greenery.

Accommodations: Overnight in Zhangjiajie.

Expert Travel Advice for Today:
The Bailong Elevator is a major highlight, but it can be very popular; your guide will aim to arrive early to minimize your wait time. Once at the summit of Yuanjiajie, the viewing platforms for the Avatar Hallelujah Mountain provide incredible photo opportunities, but please stay within the designated safety railings. Tianzi Mountain often experiences misty conditions, which adds to its mystical charm, though we recommend bringing a waterproof shell just in case of light mountain showers. The Ten-mile Gallery train is a relaxing way to end the day, allowing you to enjoy the scenery without further hiking. As this is a full day of mountain exploration, ensure you have plenty of storage space on your camera, as you will find yourself wanting to capture every angle of these unique sandstone pillars.

Your final morning in Zhangjiajie is dedicated to a thrilling architectural marvel: the Grand Canyon Glass Bridge. As one of the world's longest and highest glass-bottomed bridges, it offers a heart-pounding perspective of the lush canyon floor 300 meters below. After crossing the transparent walkway, you will take a smooth elevator descent to the canyon floor for a leisurely 2-hour hike. This peaceful walk through the valley allows you to admire cascading waterfalls, crystal-clear streams, and the towering emerald cliffs from a completely different vantage point.

Following a local lunch and a brief stop to collect your luggage, you will be transferred to Zhangjiajie Airport for your evening flight to Shanghai. Upon arrival in China's dazzling international metropolis, your Shanghai local guide will greet you and provide a private transfer to your hotel. You will notice an immediate and exciting contrast as the tranquil mountain landscapes are replaced by the neon lights and soaring skyscrapers of the "Paris of the East."

Accommodations: Overnight in Shanghai.

Expert Travel Advice for Today:
For the Glass Bridge, please note that for safety and maintenance, cameras (other than smartphones) and large bags are often restricted on the bridge itself; your guide will assist you in storing these items securely before you cross. We recommend wearing comfortable, non-slip shoes for the canyon floor walk, as some sections near the waterfalls can be slightly damp. For your flight to Shanghai, double-check that you have removed any portable power banks from your checked luggage, as Chinese aviation security requires these to be in your carry-on. Once you arrive in Shanghai, you will find the city stays vibrant late into the night; if you have the energy, a short walk near your hotel is a great way to get your first taste of this futuristic city's incredible energy.

Your final day of exploration is a journey through the soul of Shanghai, China's most futuristic metropolis. We begin in the historic Shikumen alleys of Nong Tang, where the unique stone-gate architecture tells the story of early 20th-century life. Walking through these narrow lanes, you will witness the "plain and relaxing" daily rhythm of local residents amidst a blend of Western and Chinese design. The journey through time continues at Yuyuan Garden, a masterpiece of classical Ming Dynasty landscaping, followed by a vibrant walk through the Yuyuan Bazaar (Chenghuangmiao), where traditional architecture and bustling market stalls create a lively atmosphere.

After a local lunch, we cross the Huangpu River to the iconic Oriental Pearl TV Tower. At its base, you will visit the Shanghai City History Museum, where immersive exhibits and lifelike wax figures chronicle the city's transformation from a fishing village to a global financial hub. You will then ascend to the tower's second sphere for a breathtaking bird's-eye view of the sprawling cityscape. After driving through the skyscraper-laden Lujiazui Finance Zone, the day concludes at The Bund. Here, you will stroll along the waterfront to admire the "Museum of Buildings" on one side and the dazzling, neon-lit skyline of Pudong on the other—the perfect finale to your Chinese odyssey.

Accommodations: Overnight in Shanghai.

Expert Travel Advice for Today:
Shanghai is a city of incredible contrasts, so we recommend having your camera fully charged for the transition from the quiet Shikumen alleys to the glittering heights of the Oriental Pearl Tower. At Yuyuan Garden, the crowds can be quite dense near the famous "Nine-Turn Bridge," so following your guide closely will ensure you don't miss the more tranquil hidden corners of the garden. For the best experience at the TV tower, try the glass-bottomed sightseeing floor if you aren't afraid of heights—it offers a thrilling view of the streets directly beneath your feet. Since the evening at the Bund can be breezy near the river, a light windbreaker or jacket is recommended. If you are looking for a final souvenir, the Yuyuan Bazaar is an excellent place for traditional crafts, but don't forget that your guide can help you navigate the best shops for authentic quality.

Your grand 11-day China odyssey comes to a close today. After enjoying a final breakfast at your hotel, your private ACT guide and driver will meet you in the lobby at the appointed time to provide a comfortable transfer to the airport for your homeward flight. As you drive through the bustling streets of Shanghai one last time, you can reflect on the incredible journey—from the imperial grandeur of Beijing and the ancient terra-cotta legions of Xi'an to the mist-shrouded peaks of Zhangjiajie and the futuristic skyline of Shanghai. Although your tour ends here, the memories of these diverse landscapes and rich cultural encounters will remain with you forever.

Accommodations: Departure (No Overnight Stay)

Expert Travel Advice for Today:
For international departures from Shanghai, we recommend arriving at the airport at least three hours before your scheduled flight time to allow for check-in and security procedures. Please ensure you have all your essential travel documents, including your passport and boarding pass, easily accessible in your carry-on bag. Your guide will assist you with the luggage drop-off at the terminal and will ensure you are at the correct gate area before saying goodbye. If you have some last-minute shopping to do, Shanghai's airports offer a wide range of duty-free shops and local snack boutiques where you can pick up final gifts. We wish you a safe and pleasant flight home and look forward to welcoming you back to Asia in the future.