9-Day Small Group China Tour to Beijing – Xi’an – Guilin

Traveling to China often feels like stepping into a vast, living history book — with sights that inspire awe and stories that captivate. This 9-day small group tour promises a well-balanced mix of legendary landmarks, scenic landscapes, and cultural encounters, all guided by professionals who know the ins and outs of Chinese heritage.

What we really love about this experience is its comprehensive itinerary that covers iconic sites like the Great Wall and Terracotta Army, along with immersive activities such as cycling around ancient city walls and meeting locals in their homes. Plus, the inclusion of domestic flights, comfortable hotels, and guided tours makes it a smooth, hassle-free adventure.

One factor to consider is the fast-paced schedule — there’s little downtime, so if you prefer slow, relaxing travel, this might feel a bit intensive. However, for those eager to see a lot in a limited time, it’s perfect. This tour suits travelers who enjoy a mix of sightseeing, culture, and lively group experiences with knowledgeable guides.

Key Points

• All-inclusive value with entrance fees, meals, domestic flights, and expert guides included
• Authentic cultural insights: meet locals, visit homes, and explore traditional neighborhoods
• Iconic sights: Great Wall, Forbidden City, Terracotta Army, Li River cruise
• Compact but comprehensive: covers Beijing, Xi’an, and Guilin in just 9 days
• Well-organized logistics: airport pickups, private transfers, and guided tours
• Ideal for travelers seeking a blend of history, scenery, and local life

A Deep Dive into the Itinerary: What You Can Expect

Start with Beijing’s Must-Sees — Tiananmen Square, Forbidden City, and More

Your journey kicks off in China’s buzzing capital. Upon arrival, a guide will be waiting to take you directly to your hotel — no need to stress about navigating the busy airport. The first day is mostly about settling in and relaxing after your travels.

On day two, you’ll explore Tiananmen Square, the world’s largest urban square, a hub of modern Chinese history. From there, you’ll step into the Forbidden City, where you can wander through ancient halls and admire exquisite artwork while imagining life in imperial China. The included a la carte lunch, featuring authentic Peking Duck, adds a flavorful touch to this culture.

Visiting the Temple of Heaven completes your morning, showcasing the architectural ingenuity of the emperors’ ritual site. The evening offers a change of pace with an acrobatic show at the Red Theater — expect impressive acts that highlight traditional Chinese performance arts.

Day 3: The Great Wall & Local Neighborhoods

The highlight here is the Mutianyu Great Wall, often considered one of the most scenic sections. The cable car ride up and down makes the experience accessible and comfortable, especially with the added touch of a group toast with red wine to celebrate standing on this marvel. It’s a moment many travelers cherish, feeling the grandeur of the wall stretching into the horizon.

Post-Wall, a quick photo stop at the Bird’s Nest Olympic Stadium offers a glimpse into modern China’s architectural prowess. Later, a rickshaw tour through the Hutongs gives you a sense of old Beijing life, with the chance to visit a local family. The personal interaction here is often a highlight, transforming sightseeing into genuine cultural exchange.

Day 4: Summer Palace & Flight to Xi’an

Your morning starts with a visit to the Summer Palace, a sprawling complex blending stunning lakes, gardens, and pavilions with imperial history. The tranquil setting lends itself to quiet reflection amid natural beauty and architecture.

After lunch, you’ll transfer to the airport for a short flight to Xi’an, the ancient capital famed for its Terracotta Army. Your local guide will meet you upon arrival, ready to escort you to your hotel for some well-earned rest.

Day 5: Terracotta Warriors & Big Wild Goose Pagoda

The Terracotta Army is a highlight for almost every traveler, and this tour allows a close-up look at the life-sized soldiers guarding the First Emperor’s mausoleum. Beyond just viewing the pits, you’ll visit the home of the discoverer of the army, adding a personal touch to history.

Later, the Big Wild Goose Pagoda offers insight into Chinese Buddhist architecture and religious history, with plenty of photo opportunities. The evening’s Tang Dynasty Show — featuring music, dance, and a traditional dumpling banquet — immerses you in the cultural vibrancy of ancient China (though, note, this may be unavailable in winter months).

Day 6: The Old City & Cultural Delights

A relaxing start at the City Wall Park allows you to observe local daily life, practice Tai Chi, and get a feel for Xi’an’s community spirit. The City Wall, the best-preserved in China, is perfect for a bike ride (bike rental not included) and offers expansive views of the city.

Lunch in the Muslim Quarter introduces you to local snacks like rice cakes, green bean cakes, and other street foods that are both delicious and a window into local traditions. Visiting the Great Mosque, blending Chinese architectural styles with Islamic influences, emphasizes the city’s multicultural heritage.

In the afternoon, the Small Wild Goose Pagoda houses a museum, offering a peaceful spot to reflect on the city’s spiritual history.

Day 7 & 8: Guilin and the Scenic Li River

Flying to Guilin, you’ll immediately sense the scenic beauty that makes this region famous. Your guide will be ready to take you to Reed Flute Cave, a stunning stalactite-filled cavern resembling an underground palace. The Elephant Trunk Hill, with its elephant-shaped rock, provides a picturesque backdrop perfect for photos.

The highlight is the Li River cruise from Guilin to Yangshuo, often called “a hundred miles of art,” offering some of China’s most postcard-worthy landscapes. Expect towering karst formations, lush greenery, and tranquil waters. The cruise lasts about 4.5 hours, giving ample time to unwind and soak in the views.

In Yangshuo, walking along West Street reveals a charming blend of local and expatriate life, with cafés, shops, and street performers. Visiting a local villager’s home adds a meaningful connection to rural life, an aspect praised in reviews for providing authentic insight into regional traditions.

Final Day: Departure from Guilin

Your last morning involves heading to the airport for your onward journey. Since hotel transfers aren’t included, you’ll need to arrange for your own transport, but the airport is conveniently accessible from the city.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

At $1,589 per person, this tour packs in a lot of value, considering the included domestic flights, all entrance fees, guided excursions, meals, and even a private guide and driver. The logistics are streamlined, allowing you to focus on enjoying the sights rather than stressing over transportation or language barriers.

The small group size (max 18 travelers) fosters a more intimate experience, where guides can cater to your questions and interests. Many reviews highlight the expert knowledge of guides like Rocky and Echo, who make history come alive with their stories and tips.

Authentic Experiences & Cultural Touchpoints

Meeting locals in their homes and visiting traditional neighborhoods like the Hutongs and Muslim Quarter help you see China beyond the tourist spots. Travelers often appreciate this personal aspect, transforming a sightseeing tour into a more meaningful cultural exchange.

Scenic Highlights & Photo Opportunities

The combination of ancient architecture, scenic landscapes, and modern marvels like the Bird’s Nest stadium means you’ll have endless photo opportunities. The Li River cruise, in particular, stands out as a highlight, offering some of the best scenery in China.

Comfortable Accommodations & Meals

Hotels included are comfortable with breakfasts, and the meals offer a taste of regional cuisine, from Peking Duck to traditional dumplings. The a la carte lunches during sightseeing days are a definite plus, providing authentic Chinese dishes in nice settings.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience suits travelers who want a comprehensive, well-organized introduction to China’s history, culture, and scenery within a manageable time frame. It’s ideal for those who appreciate guided tours but still want authentic cultural interactions.

If you’re after a trip with minimal shopping detours and maximum sightseeing, this tour delivers. It’s perfect for first-time visitors or anyone eager to tick off major landmarks with the benefit of local insights and convenience.

FAQ

Is airport pickup included?
Yes, airport pickup is provided on the first day, making your arrival seamless and stress-free.

Are meals included?
Most lunches and dinners are included, with a special a la carte lunch on day 2 and a dumpling dinner during the Tang Dynasty Show. Breakfasts are also provided at the hotels.

Can I customize the trip?
While this tour is fixed in its itinerary, you can ask about extensions or specific interests, such as additional sightseeing or cultural experiences, through your travel consultant.

What is the group size?
The tour limits to 18 travelers, creating a more personal atmosphere and allowing guides to give more tailored attention.

Are there any shopping stops?
No, the tour explicitly avoids shopping detours, ensuring your time is spent on sights and cultural interactions.

Is the tour suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, vegetarian options are available if advised at the time of booking, and most meals can accommodate dietary preferences.

Final Thoughts

This 9-day small group tour offers an excellent way to experience China’s iconic sights without the stress of planning logistics. The inclusion of local interactions, scenic cruises, and expert guides makes it a richly rewarding journey that balances history, scenery, and culture.

For travelers eager to see the highlights with a comfortable pace and meaningful experiences, this tour provides a solid, value-packed option. Whether you’re marveling at the Great Wall, walking along ancient city walls, or floating down the Li River, you’ll come away with memories that last a lifetime — and plenty of stories to tell.