14-Day Small-Group China Tour: Beijing, Xi’an, Guilin, Yangtze Cruise, Shanghai

Travel experiences don’t come much more comprehensive than this 14-day journey through China’s most iconic sights and scenic landscapes. While I haven’t personally taken this exact tour, the detailed itinerary and glowing reviews paint a picture of a well-organized, authentic adventure that balances cultural highlights with natural beauty.

What we love about this trip is the mix of UNESCO World Heritage Sites, such as the Great Wall and Terracotta Warriors, along with leisurely cruises along the Yangtze River. Plus, the guided visits are said to be both informative and personable—something that truly enhances your understanding of the destinations. The inclusion of transportation, entrance fees, and meals makes it a hassle-free experience for travelers looking for value.

One thing to consider is the pace; with so much packed into 14 days, you’ll need to keep up with a busy schedule. This tour suits travelers who want a thorough overview of China’s top attractions without the hassle of planning every detail themselves. It’s perfect for first-timers, history buffs, or those eager for a wide-ranging adventure in a short time.

Key Points

• All-in-one itinerary covers Beijing, Xi’an, Guilin, Chongqing, Yichang, and Shanghai.
• Expert guides enhance the experience with deep knowledge and personable service.
• Comfortable transportation includes flights, trains, and private vehicles.
• Natural and cultural highlights such as the Great Wall, Terracotta Warriors, Li River, and Yangtze River cruise.
• No shopping detours — the tour focuses on sightseeing, not factory visits or shopping stops.
• Good value for the price of around $3,139 per person, with most meals, entrance fees, and accommodations included.

An In-Depth Look at the Journey

Starting in Beijing: A Perfect Introduction

The tour kicks off in Beijing with a warm welcome from a professional guide, who will meet you at the airport. The first impression is the seamless transfer to your hotel, freeing you from logistical worries early on. You get some free time to settle in or explore nearby sights.

The next day is packed with highlights like Tiananmen Square and the Forbidden City, where you’ll walk through grand halls and ancient courtyards filled with treasures. The included a la carte lunch featuring Peking Duck really gives you a taste of local flavor without extra cost, as reviewers like Gyorgy P. appreciated the knowledgeable guides, especially Candy, who made the experience memorable with her friendly demeanor and deep understanding.

Exploring Beijing’s Cultural Landmarks

Your visit to the Temple of Heaven offers insight into imperial architecture, where emperors worshipped for good harvests. The guide’s explanations bring the site’s history to life, making the visit more than just a walk around beautiful structures.

The highlight for many is Mutianyu’s Great Wall, where a cable car whisks you up to one of China’s most famous sights. Standing on the wall and looking out over the mountains is a feeling many reviewers describe as unforgettable. A group toast with red wine on the wall is a charming touch that sets this visit apart.

In the afternoon, you’ll experience a rickshaw tour through Beijing’s historic Hutongs, visiting a local family and gaining insight into traditional life. This adds a human element often missing from larger tours and offers great photo opportunities.

Xi’an: The Ancient Capital

Flying to Xi’an introduces you to a city steeped in history. The Terracotta Warriors are the star attraction, and the visit is thoughtfully planned—highlighting pits filled with life-sized soldiers, horses, and weapons. The opportunity to meet the family of the warrior’s first discoverer and even create a mini clay figure adds a personal touch, making it memorable for travelers.

The Big Wild Goose Pagoda offers a serene counterpoint, housing Buddhist scriptures from India. The evening features a Tang Dynasty Show where music and dance vividly recreate an imperial court, though this is seasonal and might not be available year-round.

Exploring Xi’an’s City Wall on foot or by bike (rental not included) reveals a bustling, lively cityscape that still retains its ancient defenses. Reviewers like Bfrags44 praised guide Tracy’s attentiveness—always ensuring water and explaining the historical significance during hot, humid days.

Guilin and Yangshuo: Nature’s Masterpieces

Flying to Guilin, travelers are greeted with stunning natural scenery. Reed Flute Cave and Elephant Trunk Hill showcase the region’s famous karst formations and sculpted landscapes. The cave, with its stalactites and stalagmites, is a favorite for its otherworldly shapes, while the hill, shaped like a giant trunk, provides fantastic photo ops.

The Li River cruise from Guilin to Yangshuo is a highlight, often called a “living painting.” The 4.5-hour boat ride offers panoramic views of towering limestone peaks and lush countryside. Reviewers mention the tranquility of the river and the beauty of the scenery, which seems to be straight out of a traditional Chinese ink painting.

In Yangshuo, West Street and local village visits give a taste of rural life. Visitors can stroll, shop, or visit a local family’s home, as some reviews mention. The relaxed pace and rural scenery are a refreshing change from the urban sightseeing.

Chongqing and the Yangtze River: A Majestic Waterway

Traveling by high-speed train, you reach Chongqing, where the cruise ship awaits. The three-night Yangtze River cruise includes visits to Fengdu Ghost City and Shennv Stream, part of the famous Three Gorges. The cruise offers a different perspective—gliding past riverbanks, dramatic cliffs, and the impressive Three Gorges Dam.

Disembarking at Yichang, you’ll visit the dam before heading to Shanghai, a city that perfectly blends old charm with modern skyscrapers. The transfer via bullet train ensures quick, comfortable travel across China’s vast landscape.

Shanghai: The Modern Metropolis

Your final days are in Shanghai, where you explore the Shanghai Museum and Yu Garden, both rich with art and architecture. The cruise along the Huangpu River showcases the city’s skyline—an inspiring sight for first-time visitors.

Reviews mention guides like Selena and Candy, whose local expertise helped make the experience smooth and engaging. The city’s blend of history and innovation makes it a fitting conclusion to your journey.

What the Tour Brings to You

This tour’s strength lies in its carefully curated itinerary, which hits all the must-see sights while offering some regional variety—from desert-like landscapes near the Great Wall to lush river valleys. The inclusion of most meals, entrance fees, and transportation reduces unexpected expenses, offering solid value.

Guides like Candy in Beijing and Tracy in Xi’an receive praise for their knowledge and friendly service, which makes the experience much more enriching. The small group size (max 18 travelers) promotes a more personalized experience, allowing for easier questions and more interaction.

The transport options—flights, trains, and private vehicles—are arranged to keep travel time efficient, so you spend more time enjoying the sights rather than just moving between them. The Yangtze River cruise stands out as a highlight, providing scenic relaxation after busy city days and a chance to see China’s grand waterways.

Value and Pricing

At around $3,139 per person, this tour packs in a lot of value considering it includes international flights (Beijing to Xi’an, Xi’an to Guilin), internal flights, all accommodation, most meals, entrance fees, and guided services. Reviewers frequently compliment the well-organized logistics and professional guides—elements that justify the price for many travelers.

Who Would Love This Tour?

If you’re someone who wants a comprehensive China experience in a manageable timeframe, this trip is an excellent fit. It’s ideal for first-timers, history enthusiasts, and those eager to see both urban marvels and natural wonders without the stress of planning every detail. Also, if you prefer a small-group setting with attentive guides, this tour delivers.

Final Thoughts

This 14-day small-group tour offers a detailed, well-rounded look at China’s most famous attractions. The combination of cultural landmarks, stunning landscapes, and smooth logistics makes it a strong choice for travelers seeking both comfort and authenticity.

The experience is warmly praised for knowledgeable guides, stunning scenery, and excellent organization. While the pace can be fast, the richness of sights and the expert guidance make it a worthwhile adventure, especially for first-time visitors.

This tour balances value and quality, making it especially suitable for travelers who want a comprehensive, hassle-free introduction to China’s highlights—perfect for making the most of a two-week trip.

FAQ

Is transportation included in this tour?
Yes, transportation is included throughout—flights, trains, private vehicles, and cruise ship transfers—ensuring smooth movement between destinations.

Are entrance fees included?
Most site entrance fees are covered, including major attractions like the Forbidden City, Terracotta Warriors, Li River, and Three Gorges Dam.

Does the tour involve shopping stops?
No, the itinerary explicitly avoids shopping detours, factory visits, or shopping site restaurants, focusing solely on sightseeing.

What meals are included?
The tour includes 13 breakfasts, 7 lunches, and 4 dinners, with some special options like the Peking Duck lunch and a dumpling dinner at the Tang Dynasty Show.

How large are the groups?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 18 travelers, which fosters more personalized interactions with guides and fellow travelers.

What level of activity is involved?
Expect some walking, sightseeing, and optional activities like biking on the city wall or exploring villages. The pace is active but manageable.

Is this suitable for children or elderly travelers?
Yes, the itinerary is family-friendly, but due to the pace, it’s best suited for those comfortable with some walking and busy schedules.

This tour offers a fantastic overview of China’s diverse attractions, with knowledgeable guides, seamless logistics, and a focus on authentic experiences. Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or city explorer, it’s designed to leave you with lasting memories of this incredible country.