7 Days Private Tour of Beijing, Xian, Shanghai by Bullet Train

Exploring China in 7 Days: A Balanced Look at the Beijing, Xi’an, and Shanghai Tour

This 7-day private tour promises an efficient way to see some of China’s most iconic cities—Beijing, Xi’an, and Shanghai—by high-speed bullet train. While I haven’t personally taken this journey, reviews and tour details reveal a well-organized experience that combines history, culture, and modern cityscapes.

What we love here is the focus on authentic highlights, the seamless transit between cities, and the thoughtfully curated itinerary that balances major sights with local flavor. We also appreciate the inclusion of experienced guides, who often enhance the experience with in-depth knowledge.

One point to consider is that the schedule is quite packed, which might feel rushed for some travelers, especially if you love lingering at each site. This tour best suits those eager to cover a lot of ground quickly, with limited time but a desire for a rich, curated overview of China’s most famous cities.

Who This Tour Is Perfect For

If you’re someone who loves history, architecture, and vibrant city life, and prefers a structured, guided experience, this tour could be a great fit. It’s particularly suitable for first-time visitors to China who want a comprehensive, hassle-free introduction to its cultural gems.

Key Points

• Efficient 7-day itinerary covers Beijing, Xi’an, and Shanghai, maximizing your time.
• High-speed bullet trains make traveling between cities quick and comfortable.
• Knowledgeable guides enrich the experience with insights about iconic sites.
• Authentic cultural experiences like hutong tour and local food at Muslim Quarter.
• Balanced schedule includes major landmarks without overly long days.
• Good value considering transportation, accommodations, entrance fees, and guided service.

An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

Day 1: Easy Arrival and Relaxation in Beijing

The journey kicks off with a straightforward airport or train station pickup, where your driver holds a welcome sign with your name. This smooth start sets the tone — you’re treated as a private guest from the get-go. You’ll be transferred to your hotel with no guide service on this day, giving you some free time to settle in or explore the neighborhood at your own pace.

This initial arrival day is a smart way to adjust after travel, especially if your flight arrives early. It’s a simple, stress-free beginning that leaves you ready for the days ahead.

Day 2: Exploring Beijing’s Imperial and Military Heritage

The second day is a deep dive into Beijing’s imperial past. The Ming Tombs (Dingling) offer a glimpse into the dynastic burial traditions, with the only excavated Ming Tomb among the 13, making it a highlight. The tour lasts about two hours, and the entrance fee is included, so no surprises here.

Next, the iconic Great Wall at Badaling awaits. This section is renowned for its preservation and stunning views, winding dramatically over mountain slopes. Expect about two hours of exploring, with the option to take a cable car if hiking feels too daunting or time-pressing. Reviewers mention the steep slopes and tortuous roads, which are true — comfortable shoes are a must.

The wall’s grandeur, combined with the story of its military importance, makes it one of the trip’s must-see moments. From the guides’ descriptions, it’s clear that many visitors are struck by the “strong dragon winding along the mountain range,” as one reviewer noted.

Day 3: The Heart of Beijing & Local Life

Day three is packed with highlights: Tiananmen Square, the Forbidden City, Temple of Heaven, and a Hutong tour.

Tiananmen Square is vast and evocative, offering a sense of history from its large open spaces, often used for major national events. It’s a quick 30-minute stop, but no visit is complete without standing on its enormous expanse.

The Forbidden City is a sprawling palace complex of wood, where 24 emperors of Ming and Qing dynasties once reigned. The site is huge, and a two-hour tour gives a glimpse into imperial life. Reviewers appreciate guides who bring the history alive, helping visitors appreciate the significance of every corridor and courtyard.

Afterwards, the Temple of Heaven provides another layer of imperial ritual, where emperors once prayed for good harvests. Its beautiful sacrificial buildings and surrounding gardens make for peaceful strolls — about 1.5 hours here.

The Hutong tour dips into the everyday life of Beijingers. Taking a rickshaw through these traditional alleyways offers a perspective different from the bustling city streets, revealing local homes and the quieter side of Beijing. Reviewers often note that this is a “totally different face of the city,” and a chance to see the authentic, everyday side that visitors might miss alone.

Day 4: Transition to Xi’an — The Ancient Capital

Early morning, you’ll leave Beijing West Railway Station via private transfer and hop on a bullet train to Xi’an. The ride lasts about 4.5 hours, giving you a scenic glimpse of the Chinese countryside from the train windows.

Upon arrival, the Xian City Wall is next. Well-preserved and the largest in China, it offers a great opportunity to walk or even bike around the city’s historic perimeter. This wall was built for military defense during the Ming Dynasty and still impresses with its scale and preservation.

The Drum Tower Square and the lively Muslim Quarter wrap up the day, offering a taste of ancient city life mixed with modern-day markets. Reviewers love the vibrant atmosphere here and recommend trying local snacks, though some mention that exploring the quarter can be quite busy and crowded.

Day 5: The Terracotta Army — A Must-See Wonder

The world-famous Terracotta Warriors and Horses are a highlight of this tour, often called the “Eighth Wonder of the World.” Discovered by farmers in 1974, the site has become a symbol of China’s craftsmanship.

You’ll spend around two hours exploring the massive pits and the exhibition hall, where the high level of sculpture detail still amazes visitors. Many reviews mention this as a highlight, with guides sharing stories about the soldiers’ purpose and craftsmanship.

Next, the Big Wild Goose Pagoda offers a serene spot for appreciating Tang Dynasty architecture, with a lovely garden surrounding it. This site offers a peaceful contrast to the military might of the Terracotta Army, and many visitors enjoy walking in the gardens afterward.

Day 6: Xi’an to Shanghai — The Modern Metropolis

Early morning, you’ll board another bullet train to Shanghai. The ride lasts around five hours, but the comfort of high-speed rail makes it a pleasant journey.

Once in Shanghai, the Bund and the Huangpu River cruise await. The Bund’s historic buildings reflect Shanghai’s colonial past, and the river cruise provides spectacular views of the skyline, especially at sunset. Reviewers often mention the river cruise as the perfect way to end a busy day, with breathtaking city views that are “unparalleled.”

Day 7: Shanghai’s Cultural Gems and Farewell

Your final day covers the Jade Buddha Temple, home to two impressive jade Buddha statues brought from Burma. It’s a peaceful, spiritual start to the day.

Next, the Shanghai Museum houses an extensive collection of over 120,000 cultural pieces, offering insights into China’s artistic past. It’s a must-visit for history buffs, though it closes on Mondays.

Finally, Yuyuan Garden presents a classic Chinese garden experience, with beautiful pavilions, rocks, and ponds. The adjacent market area offers souvenirs and local snacks, perfect for a last taste of Shanghai’s charm before heading to the airport or train station for departure.

Why this Tour Provides Great Value

This tour combines the logistical ease of private transfers, guided insights, and pre-paid entrance fees, making it a hassle-free way to see major sights. The use of bullet trains ensures quick, comfortable travel between cities, saving hours that would otherwise be spent on road journeys.

The accommodation and daily breakfast in hotels, alongside the flexibility of private guides, enhance the overall experience. While the price of $1,450 per person might seem steep, it often includes most major entrance fees, transportation, and expert guidance — a worthwhile investment for those wanting a curated experience without the stress of planning every detail.

Authentic Experiences and Great Guides

Reviewers repeatedly praise the guides, such as Shelley and Wendy, for their vast knowledge and engaging storytelling. One reviewer mentioned that the guides made the history “come alive,” emphasizing the importance of a knowledgeable guide for enriching your understanding of Chinese sites.

Practical Aspects

Timing is tight but manageable, with most days starting early to maximize sightseeing. The tour timing accommodates those who prefer a structured schedule, but be prepared for full days with little downtime. You’ll need comfortable shoes and a sense of adventure for some steep climbs and crowded markets.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

This itinerary is best suited for travelers who want a comprehensive, guided overview of China’s most famous cities in a short span. It’s perfect for first-timers, history enthusiasts, and those who prefer organized travel to minimize planning stress.

The combination of cultural highlights, efficient transportation, and knowledgeable guides ensures you’ll gain a solid understanding of China’s history and modern vibrancy. However, if you prefer slow-paced exploration or deep dives into fewer sites, this might feel a bit rushed.

In all, this 7-day journey offers excellent value for travelers chasing iconic experiences, with the convenience of private guiding and the thrill of high-speed train travel.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for solo travelers?
Yes, as a private tour, it’s ideal for solo travelers who want a personalized experience with flexible arrangements.

Are airport transfers included?
While the tour begins with pickup at Beijing airport or train station, the final transfer to Shanghai airport or train station is included at the end of the trip.

Can I customize the itinerary?
This specific tour follows a fixed itinerary, but the private nature means guides can often accommodate slight adjustments if booked in advance.

What type of transportation is used?
Private air-conditioned vehicles are used for transfers within each city, and high-speed bullet trains connect the major destinations.

Are entrance fees included?
Most major attractions’ entrance fees are included, such as the Ming Tombs, Great Wall, Terracotta Warriors, and more, as listed in the itinerary.

Is breakfast included?
Yes, six nights’ accommodation includes daily breakfast, allowing you to start each day ready for adventure.

Do I need to be concerned about language barriers?
The tour includes excellent English-speaking guides, so language shouldn’t be a problem during excursions.

This well-rounded tour offers an engaging way to experience China’s highlights with expert guidance, smooth transportation, and cultural authenticity, making it a smart choice for those eager to cover a lot of ground with ease.