18 Days Ultimate China and Tibet Tour, Starts in Beijing & Ends in Shanghai

Welcome to Beijing, the capital of China!

When you arrive in Beijing, our local travel guide will greet you at the airport and take you to your hotel in downtown Beijing. After checking in at the hotel, you can have a good rest or wander the surroundings as you like.

Options for Today: For your free time today, it is recommended to take a Hutong visit by yourself. You can take a leisure walk through the traditional alleys in downtown areas to experience the perfect blend of traditional local houses and modern life. Some of the popular Hutongs in Beijing include Nanluoguxiang, Yandaixiejie, Mao’er Hutong, Bada Hutong, etc.

Travel Tips: Beijing has two international airports: Beijing Capital International Airport and Beijing Daxing International Airport. Please double-check which airport you're arriving at.

Beijing Dong Fang Hotel

• Beijing Daxing International Airport

• Beijing City night

Delve into the heart of China's emperor power, and explore the two major UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Sites in Beijing. Learn how the ancient Chinese emperors managed the country, what their daily life was, and how they sacrificed gods.

After breakfast, you will be picked up from your hotel and start exploring the historical sites of Beijing. The first stop is Tiananmen Square, the largest city plaza globally. From there, you will enter the magnificent Forbidden City with over 500 years of history where 24 emperors lived. As the largest ancient imperial palace, the Forbidden City has over 9,000 rooms. Even though only a few rooms are open for public visits, you can get a glimpse of how the ancient emperors managed the country and what their daily life was like. 

Next, you will get to Jingshan Park located behind the Forbidden City. From the hilltop within the park, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the Forbidden City.

In the afternoon, you will take a drive to the Temple of Heaven, which is 6 kilometers from the Forbidden City. It is the place where ancient Chinese emperors worshiped the sky and prayed for rain, prosperity, and peace for the country and the people.

Beijing Dong Fang hotel

Breakfast

• The iconic architectural style and legendary history of Forbidden City are fun to explore.

• A group selfie taken before Temple of Heaven

Today is your day to be a hero by visiting the Great Wall!

In the morning, you’ll head to Mutianyu Great Wall, which is 65 kilometers to the north of Downtown Beijing. It is one of the well-preserved sections of the Great Wall that is less crowded. You will hike along the ancient walls, pass through the watch towers, and enjoy the stunning view of the surroundings from the hilltop.

For lunch, you will enjoy the famous Beijing Roast Duck. Served with thin pancakes, spring onions, and sweet bean sauce, this traditional dish in Beijing offers a delectable blend of flavors and textures.

After lunch, you will visit the Ming Tomb, another UNESCO World Heritage Site for today. The emperor’s tomb for Emperor Shenzong and his queen was built in 1590, Ming Dynasty. The architectural scale and magnificence of the Ming Tomb are unparalleled among all tombs in China. With an area of about 100,000 square meters and perfectly, the Ming Tomb showcases the traditional layout of Ming Dynasty imperial tombs. You can visit the underground palaces of the emperor and empress to get a firsthand glimpse into this historical treasure.

After the tour, you will be dropped off at the train station to board the overnight high-speed train to Xi’an. The journey from Beijing to Xining by high-speed train takes around 12 hours. You’ll experience the modern sleeping cabins onboard China’s high-tech bullet train.

Travel Tips:
Please wear a pair of comfortable walking shoes for the Great Wall hiking.

Overnight on the Bullet Train

Breakfast | Lunch - Beijing Toast Duck

• Mutianyu Great Wall in Spring

• Ming Tombs are a collection of mausoleums built by the emperors of the Ming dynasty of China.

Get ready to explore the ancient capital of China with 3 UNESCO World Heritages.

Upon your arrival in Xi’an, your guide will pick you up from Xi’an Railway Station and take you to your hotel. After checking at the hotel and taking a short rest, you will start your trip to Xi’an after lunch.

First, you will visit the Ancient City Wall. With a total length of approximately 14 kilometers, the Ancient City Wall in Xian is the most complete and largest existing Ming Dynasty city wall in China. While walking along the city wall, you can see the complete layout of the imperial city more than 1,000 years ago.

Then, you will visit the Bell and Drum Tower Square. The Bell Tower is a landmark of Xi’an City, which was built 600 years ago in the Ming Dynasty. The 36-meter-high bell tower has five floors. The huge bronze bell on the top floor will be rung in the morning and evening. At night, the neon lights are on, and the light and shadow are colored glass, which is full of beauty.

Adjacent to the Bell Tower, the Drum Tower is the largest Drum Tower in China that built in 1380. When you climb the Drum Tower, you can see a 1.8-meter-high drum and 24 red drums engraved with the 24 solar terms, which are very impressive.

Last, you will enjoy a leisure walk around the lively Muslim Quarter, where the largest and oldest mosque in China is located. There you can find the most typical local snacks and explore Muslim culture. Besides the exquisite ethnic handicrafts, you will also taste the popular local snacks in a century-old restaurant.

Travel Tips:
When visit the Ancient City Wall, you can rent a bike with an extra cost of 45 RMB to cycle on the City Wall.

Grand Dynasty Culture Hotel

Lunch - Xi'an Roujiamo (Chinese burger) Combo

• You can take a bike ride on the Ancient Wall.

• xi'an gourmet street and Muslim Quarter

Today will be an extraordinary day as you visit 3 world cultural heritage sites, including one of the eight wonders of the world - the most famous Terracotta Warriors and Horses.

After breakfast, your first stop will be the world-famous Terracotta Army, which is also one of the eight wonders in the world. These terracotta warriors and horses are the size of a real army, and were buried alongside the Emperor in a vast underground palace.

Next, you will visit the Big Wild Goose Pagoda (Dayanta). Built by the Buddhist Master Xuanzang over 1,300 years ago, the pagoda shows the artistic style and craftsmanship of the Tang Dynasty. You could learn more about how Indian Buddhism was introduced into China and how Buddhism flourished in China afterward.

Then, you will finish today’s trip with a walk in Weiyang Palace Relics Park. Built in 200 BC, Weiyang Palace was the second imperial palace in Chinese history. It is not only the longest existence palace among all Chinese palaces, but also the eastern starting point of the Silk Road.

Now, what was once a power center has been turned into a park open to the public. Here you can experience the leisure life of local people. Stay overnight in Xi’an.

Travel Tips:
You need to pay extra 30 RMB if you want visit inside and climb up the Big Wild Goose Pagoda

Grand Dynasty Culture Hotel

Breakfast

• Xi'an Terracotta Warriors and Horses Museum

• Xi'an Big Wild Goose Pagoda

Get ready for the legendary Tibet train journey from Xining!

In the morning, you will take a high-speed train from Xi’an to Xining, the starting point of the Qinghai-Tibet Railway.

Upon arrival in Xining, your local guide will pick you up at the railway station and take you to a hotel for a short rest and prepare for your Tibet train journey. Then the guide and driver will take you to the railway station for your train to Tibet.

The railway station is about 2.5 kilometers north of the city center. It is suggested to get to the railway station around 1 hour before departure. You need to present your passport and the Tibet Travel Permit to board the train.

Tibet Permit Notice:
1. Once you book your trip with us, we will handle the Tibet Travel Permit application.

2. It is suggested to make your reservation and provide the necessary documents for the permit application at least 20 days in advance.

3. The issued travel permit will be sent to you before the train departs. Please make sure to keep your Tibet Travel Permit safe.

Tibet Train Travel Tips:
1. A Xining to Lhasa soft sleeper train ticket is included in the package.

2. There is a dining car onboard the train to Tibet, which offers simple Chinese dishes. You can bring some snacks and instant noodles with you.

3. All trains to Tibet are equipped with oxygen supply systems. Do not worry about altitude sickness onboard.

Hourly hotel in Xining and overnight on the Tibet Train

Breakfast

• Tibet train soft sleeper

• The world-renowned Qinghai-Tibet railway refers to the railway that starts from Xining to Lhasa.

Complete the lifetime Tibet train journey and welcome to Tibet!

Today, you will enjoy the most beautiful scenery of the Qinghai-Tibet Railway through the Tibet Plateau. Endless land of snow, vast desert, boundless grassland, snow-capped mountains, and stunning lakes will continually appear and strongly attract your heart.

After arriving in Lhasa, you will meet our friendly Tibetan guide at Lhasa Railway Station. The guide and the driver will take you to your hotel in downtown Lhasa. You may view the Yarlung Tsangpo River/Brahmaputra River (the Longest and largest river in Tibet) and Lhasa River.

After settling into your hotel, take some time to rest and adjust to the high altitude. In the afternoon or evening, your guide will meet you with traditional Tibetan gifts, provide travel instructions, and introduce your group members.

If you need any help or specific needs, feel free to visit our service center at Lhasa Gang-Gyan Hotel.

Travel Tips:
Lhasa is at an elevation of 3,650 meters above sea level. It is recommended to take a good rest in the hotel upon arrival, allowing your body to adapt to the high altitude in Tibet.

Gang-Gyan Hotel

• Passengers can both enjoy the man-made wonder in transportation and the stunning scenery along the railway line.

• Tour guide will meet you at Lhasa Railway Station.

Today is Tibetan Monastery Day! You’ll have a full day to explore the largest monastery in Tibet, delve into the knowledge of Tibetan Buddhism, and immerse yourself in the daily life of Tibetan monks.

In the morning, you’ll explore the largest monastery in Tibet - Drepung Monastery, which was once the home to over 10,000 monks. As you walk through the Coqen Hall, your guide will provide detailed explanations of the worldview of Tibetan Buddhism and introduce notable figures in Tibetan Buddhist history.

Next, you’ll visit the renowned Loseling College (or an equivalent), offering a glimpse into the study and life of Tibetan monks. Explore their dormitories to gain insights into the Tibetan monks' daily routines and living conditions.

In the afternoon, you’ll head to Sera Monastery, another of the ‘great three’ Gelug monasteries of Tibet, to witness the famous Tibetan Monks Debate (15:00 - 17:00, from Monday to Saturday). Your guide will intricately explain how Tibetan monks engage in these debates to acquire knowledge and advance in their academic degrees. After today’s tour, enjoy a welcome dinner with your group members. Stay overnight in Lhasa.

Gang-Gyan Hotel

Breakfast | Welcome Dinner - Tibetan Hotpot

• Drepung Monastery, one of the Great Three Gelug monasteries of Tibet

• Monk Debate is a highlight of Sera Monastery

Today’s Highlight is a visit to UNESCO World Heritage Sites Potala Palace and Jokhang Temple, providing a glimpse into the daily beliefs and lives of the people of Lhasa.

After breakfast, your first stop is the Potala Palace, where you can enjoy a panoramic view of the Lhasa Old Town. Discover the lives and stories of the Dalai Lamas through history within the palace, and the extraordinary treasures it holds. The most valuable collections of Potala Palace are the gilded burial stupas of former Dalai Lamas and the meditation cave of the 33rd great king of Tibet.

After touring the Potala Palace, you will visit Longwangtan Park at the foot of the Potala Palace. Here, you can appreciate the majestic Potala Palace from a different perspective and engage in local Tibetan folk activities.

In the afternoon, you will head to the heart of Tibetan religion - the Jokhang Temple. Inside you can see the statue of Buddha Sakyamuni at the age of twelve. Outside, you can see pilgrims making prostrating in front of Jokhang Temple. Around the temple is Barkhor Street, where you can do kora (a religious circle of a building or mountain) with pilgrims and locals, and explore the old market.

Next, follow your guide to one of the liveliest indoor Tibetan tea houses in Lhasa. Sip traditional Tibetan sweet tea alongside local Tibetans as your guide shares insights into Tibetan social dynamics and daily life.

Gang-Gyan Hotel

Breakfast

• Potala Palace is always the No.1 attraction for travelers visiting Tibet.

• A Tibetan pilgrim is worshipping Jokhang Temple

This is the day excursion to Yamdrok Lake, one of the ‘Three Holy Lakes of Tibet’.

After breakfast, you’ll take a scenic 100-kilometer drive from Lhasa to Yamdrok Lake, a turquoise gem surrounded by snow-capped mountains. Here, you’ll experience a different side of Tibet - the peace and tranquility outside the bustling Lhasa city. The Yamdrok Lake reflects various colors in different lights. You can also see local nomads grazing their yaks on the lakeshore.

Start your Yamdrok Lake tour from Lurila Platform, where the turquoise waters and the imposing Gulha Kangri Snow Mountain unfold before your eyes.

Then, you will visit the Rutog Monastery and the lonely monk residing on the small island in the center of Yamdrok Lake. From Rutog Island, you can enjoy a broader view of Yamdrok Lake and the surrounding islands.

For lunch, you will visit a local family restaurant and enjoy the local dishes by the lakeside. On the platform, you can also savor a cup of coffee and relish leisure time while indulging in the stunning view of Yamdrok Lake from the southeast corner.

Afterward, you will return to Lhasa via the famous Gampala Pass (4900m). From the Gampala Pass platform, you can see Yamdrok Lake stretching for tens of kilometers like a wide blue ribbon to the foot of Noijin Kangsang Peak (7191m).

Gang-Gyan Hotel

Breakfast

• Yamdrok Lake at Gampala Pass, where you can get a marvelous bird's-eye view of the lake.

• Enjoy the fascinating scenery of the holy Yamdrok Lake

Welcome to Chongqing, touted as “small Hong Kong” and famous “hilly city” in China.

Upon our afternoon arrival in Chongqing, our local travel guide will warmly welcome you at the airport and accompany you to your downtown hotel. Following check-in, we'll venture out to visit renowned attractions such as the Liberation Monument located nearby.

In the evening, we will stop by Hongya Cave. With gorgeous neon lights sparkling around the Hongya Cave and Qiansimen Jialing River Bridge, you can taste hot pot and local snacks while enjoy the stunning night view of Jialing River Bridge and the commercial boats below, which is why Chongqing is named as “Small Hongkong”. You may also join the crowds to watch the live performance of street artists.

Ramada Encore Chongqing

Breakfast | Diner - Chongqing Hotpot

• Jiefangbei Square

• Hongya Cave

Be prepared for the fantastic Yangtze Cruise!

After the breakfast, we will go to experience the grandeur of the People's Hall of Chongqing. This iconic landmark, constructed between June 1951 and April 1954, boasts a stunning array of ancient-style national buildings, making it a must-visit destination on your Chongqing itinerary. Prepare to be captivated by its majestic architecture, drawing in tourists from near and far.

Then, we will continue our venture to explore the Chongqing Zoo. As one of the city's largest comprehensive parks, it is home to an impressive population of giant pandas, ranking among the top three zoos in China. Marvel at these beloved creatures and discover the vital conservation efforts taking place at the National South China Tiger Breeding Center.

Next, we will discover the charm of Ciqikou Ancient Town, once a bustling water and land pier. Wander along its historic bluestone roads, savoring local delicacies and snacks along the way. Immerse yourself in the ambiance of old Chongqing as you relax in a traditional teahouse, soaking in the customs and culture of this ancient town.

Last, we are going to start a unique adventure at Liziba Light Rail Station, where you'll witness Chongqing's distinctive landscape as the light rail passes through the surrounding terrain. Capture memorable photos against the backdrop of the city's 3D magical terrain, striking poses such as "swallowing mountains and rivers" and "holding the light rail in hand" for unforgettable moments on your journey.

Once we finish the itinerary mentioned above, we'll head back to the hotel. Next, we'll hop into a car and make our way to Chongqing Chaotianmen Pier for boarding. Boarding time is between 18:00 and 20:30. During this time, you'll attend the "Cruise Safety Briefing," where the cruise manager will go over safety precautions and provide an overview of the cruise itinerary.

Cruise Ship

Breakfast

• Ciqi Kou

• Yangtze Cruise

Today marks the beginning of our cruise adventure, and we're thrilled to offer you a diverse array of activities tailored to enrich every moment of your journey.

As you leisurely sail along the river, you'll have the opportunity to immerse yourself in the captivating scenery that unfolds along both banks, from quaint riverside villages to lush greenery and historic landmarks.

To elevate your experience even further, we invite you to partake in our delightful morning rituals. Savor the aroma of freshly brewed tea and coffee as you greet the day, accompanied by a selection of exquisite pastries meticulously prepared by our onboard chefs.

Additionally, embrace the tranquility of the morning with invigorating Tai Chi sessions led by experienced instructors on the open deck, allowing you to rejuvenate your mind, body, and spirit amidst the serene surroundings. Together, these offerings aim to create unforgettable moments and enhance the overall richness of your cruise experience.

Today's itinerary also features a visit to Shuanggui Mountain National Forest Park. Covering an area of roughly 100 hectares, this park stands out as a beloved attraction within the picturesque Three Gorges region. Its lush landscape is home to over 100 tree species and boasts an impressive collection of more than 500,000 trees, including over 20 rare varieties.

Additionally, you can choose to visit the Ghost City of Fengdu at your own expense, which is also a great option. And the entrance ticket cost around 45$ per person.

Cruise Ship

Self-service breakfast, Lunch, Diner & Captain's Cocktail Party

• Fengdu Ghost City

• Shibao Zhai Village

Today's schedule remains consistent, starting with morning tea, coffee, delightful pastries, and Tai Chi exercises.

Following this, we'll marvel at the scenic wonders of the Qutang Gorge and Wu Gorge from the comfort of the ship. Additionally, we'll embark on a smaller boat to explore the enchanting Shen'nu Stream (or visit Shen Nong Stream or Lesser Three Gorges instead)

Furthermore, you have the delightful opportunity to immerse yourself in the vibrant cultural performances presented by the talented crew. From traditional dance and music showcases to captivating theatrical presentations, these performances offer a fascinating glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the region, adding an extra layer of enjoyment to the cruising experience.

Additionally, you have the flexibility to either indulge in leisurely activities aboard the ship or embark on an optional excursion to White Emperor City. This ancient fortress, shrouded in history and perched atop a majestic hill overlooking the Yangtze River, offers a captivating journey through time. The entrance fee for this cultural excursion is approximately $45 per person.

Cruise Ship

Self-service breakfast, Lunch & Captain's Farewell Dinner

• Qutang Gorge

• Wu Gorge

Today marks the successful conclusion of your Yangtze Cruise!

After disembarking, we'll tour the Three Gorges Dam. It is a monumental hydroelectric dam situated on the Yangtze River in Hubei province. It is renowned as one of the largest and most ambitious engineering projects in the world.

Completed in 2006 after over a decade of construction, the dam spans the Yangtze River, creating a vast reservoir that helps to control flooding downstream and generate clean energy through hydroelectric power generation. Beyond its practical functions, the dam has also become a significant tourist attraction, drawing visitors from around the globe to marvel at its immense scale and technological prowess.

After the visit, we will take a bus to the Yichang Three Gorges Tourist Center. The tour group will disperse around 13:30. Following that, at 14:00, we'll catch the D954 bullet train bound for Shanghai, arriving at 20:21.

Holiday Inn Express

Self-service breakfast on the Cruise Ship

• Three Gorge Dam

• China High-Speed train

Today's itinerary promises a captivating exploration of Shanghai's rich cultural and architectural heritage.

We'll start our journey with a stroll through the charming streets of the Shanghai French Concession, where tree-lined boulevards and historic buildings evoke the city's colonial past. Next, we'll immerse ourselves in the vibrant energy of Nanjing Road, one of the world's busiest shopping streets, bustling with shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues.

Our adventure continues as we make our way to The Bund, Shanghai's iconic waterfront promenade. Here, we'll be treated to breathtaking views of the city's skyline, adorned with majestic skyscrapers juxtaposed against historic European-style buildings.

Following our time at The Bund, we'll embark on a leisurely cruise along the Huangpu River, offering a unique perspective of Shanghai's architectural marvels from the water. As the sun sets, we'll witness the city come alive with dazzling lights and reflections dancing across the river's surface.

Finally, we'll culminate our day with a visit to the awe-inspiring Shanghai Tower, one of the tallest skyscrapers in the world. Ascending to dizzying heights, we'll marvel at panoramic views of the cityscape below, a fitting conclusion to our unforgettable Shanghai adventure.

Holiday Inn Express

Breakfast and Traditional Shanghai Lunch

• Oriental Pearl TV Tower is the most iconic architecture of Shanghai.

• Never miss the chance to shop in prosperous Nangjing road

Today's attractions immerse us in the timeless beauty of classical Chinese gardens.

We begin our journey at Suzhou's renowned Tiger Hill, an ancient landmark steeped in history and legend. Here, amidst tranquil ponds, ancient pagodas, and lush greenery, we'll uncover tales of dynasties past and marvel at the iconic leaning pagoda that crowns the hill's summit.

Next, we venture to the exquisite Lingering Garden, a UNESCO World Heritage site revered for its meticulous design and poetic charm. As we meander through winding pathways and over arched bridges, we'll encounter pavilions, rockeries, and delicate corridors adorned with intricate carvings, each corner revealing a new vista of serenity and grace.

Our journey culminates at the Humble Administrator's Garden, a masterpiece of Ming Dynasty landscaping and the largest of Suzhou's classical gardens. Here, we'll wander through a symphony of water, rocks, and pavilions, each meticulously arranged to evoke scenes from classical Chinese poetry and painting. From the tranquil lotus ponds to the shaded alcoves perfumed with the scent of blossoms, every corner of this garden invites contemplation and reverence for the timeless artistry of Suzhou's garden masters.

Holiday Inn Express

Breakfast

• Suzhou Tiger Hill

• Suzhou Humble Administrator's Garden

Today marks the end of your Tibet tour. Please make sure to verify your departure flight/train details with our guide in advance. And your guide will take you to the airport or train station.

Breakfast