The 15 Most Popular Tours In China

China offers an incredible mix of history, natural beauty, and vibrant city life. Its vast landscape and cultural diversity mean there’s no shortage of memorable tours—whether you’re eager to walk ancient walls, explore stunning gorges, or indulge in local food. We particularly love the Mutianyu Great Wall Bus Tours for its relaxed pace and fewer crowds, and the private night visit to Simatai for a truly unique experience under starry skies. These tours showcase China’s iconic sites with comfort and authenticity, making your trip both easy and enriching.

Whether you’re after a quick glimpse or a full exploration, China’s tours are as diverse as its landscape. From the legendary Great Wall to scenic mountain vistas like Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, the options are tailored for different interests, budgets, and time constraints. Below, you’ll find a detailed rundown of the top 15 tours that stand out for their quality, uniqueness, and value.

1. Beijing: Mutianyu Great Wall Bus Tour 7/8/9/10/13/13:30/15:30

Rated 4.8/5 based on 196 reviews, this affordable tour at just $10 per person lets you enjoy fewer crowds and well-preserved walls at Mutianyu. The tour allows you to spend a leisurely 4–5 hours exploring without feeling rushed. It’s operated by BusDa, a trusted local brand that has served over 100,000 international visitors annually. The tour guarantees no shopping stops, no scams, and no unnecessary detours, focusing solely on the Great Wall experience. You skip long ticket lines and benefit from a free shuttle bus inside the scenic area, making this a hassle-free choice for budget-conscious travelers who want a high-quality visit to one of China’s most famous landmarks.
Bottom line: A straightforward, affordable way to see the Great Wall with plenty of time to enjoy the scenery.

2. Twilight Glow at Mutianyu Great Wall Evening Bus Tour+Ticket

With a perfect 4.8/5 rating from 66 reviews, this evening tour for $20 offers a rare chance to see the Great Wall at night. The quiet, starry setting adds a magical touch to your visit. You’ll enjoy the same hassle-free features—skip lines, free shuttle, no scams—and experience a peaceful atmosphere with fewer visitors. The scenic views under the evening sky make this tour a memorable way to see a different side of China’s most iconic structure. It’s perfect for night owls and those seeking a serene, less crowded experience after a busy day.
Bottom line: A unique, tranquil experience for those wanting to see the Great Wall in a different light.

3. Beijing: Mutianyu Great Wall Private Tour

Rated a perfect 5/5 from 33 reviews, this private tour offers flexibility and comfort. It lasts 6–8 hours and includes VIP fast passes to skip the crowds. The personalized itinerary can be tailored to your preferences, and a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle transports you efficiently. The guide will lead you through the less crowded sections of Mutianyu, sharing insights along the way. This tour is especially suited for travelers who want a more intimate experience, with the ability to customize start times and pace. The reviews highlight the value of having a dedicated guide who enhances the visit with storytelling and photos.
Bottom line: Ideal for those seeking a personalized, less touristy experience with VIP treatment.

4. Simatai Great Wall Private Night Layover Tour from Beijing Airport

Celebrating a perfect 5.0/5 from 17 reviews, this night tour for $172 per person is a rare opportunity to see the illuminated Simatai section—the only part of the Great Wall open at night. It’s perfect for travelers with a layover in Beijing who want to maximize their time and experience. The tour includes a cable car ride to ease the ascent, and the atmosphere is dramatically different after dark, with the wall glowing against the night sky. The 6-hour itinerary offers a chance to walk a more historic, less restored section, leaving you with a truly memorable and authentic feeling.
Bottom line: Perfect for short layovers and those eager for a one-of-a-kind nighttime view.

5. Beijing Private Great Wall Day Tour

Rated 5/5 from 12 reviews, this full-day private tour ($156 per person) hits multiple sections, including Jingshanling, Mutianyu, Huanghua Cheng, and Badaling. The flexible itinerary includes skip-the-line VIP passes, making it easy to beat the crowds. The guide is highly praised for engaging storytelling and helping you capture perfect photos. The tour suits travelers wanting to see different parts of the Wall in one day and enjoy personalized service. The reviews mention the excellent guide and the value of the VIP fast track, making it a hassle-free, comprehensive experience.
Bottom line: Best for travelers who want a thorough, customizable visit to China’s most famous landmark.

6. Chongqing Wulong Private Day Tour: Three Bridges & Longshuixia Gorge

Rated 5.0/5 from 5 reviews, this 11-hour tour at $19.90 offers stunning karst landscapes. You visit the Three Natural Bridges, massive limestone arches UNESCO called a national treasure, and Longshuixia Gorge, where a wooden walkway winds through waterfalls and cliffs. The tour provides hotel pickup and comfortable transport, allowing you to explore Wulong’s natural wonders at your own pace. It’s ideal for those interested in geology and scenic hikes without feeling rushed.
Bottom line: Excellent for nature lovers wanting a flexible, in-depth look at China’s dramatic limestone scenery.

7. One day Jade Dragon Snow Mountain Tour with Impression Lijiang show

Rated 5/5 from 4 reviews, this full-day private trip for $252 takes you from Lijiang into Yunnan’s breathtaking highlands. Highlights include Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, Baisha Old Town, and the mesmerizing Impression Lijiang show directed by Zhang Yimou. The tour covers stunning mountain scenery and traditional villages, making it perfect for outdoor lovers and culture enthusiasts. The guide provides detailed commentary, and round-trip transportation simplifies logistics.
Bottom line: A superb choice for those wanting scenic mountain views combined with culture.

8. Beijing: Great Wall Small Group Tour

Rated 5/5 from 3 reviews, this small-group experience at $63 offers an early start to beat the crowds. The tour includes hotel pickup, a visit to Mutianyu, and ample free time for exploration and photos. It also features a gourmet lunch and a chance to walk the untouched parts of the Great Wall. The limited group size creates a more personal atmosphere, with guides sharing insights along the way. The key advantage is avoiding the tourist bus crush, especially if you prefer a more intimate experience.
Bottom line: Ideal for travelers who prefer smaller groups and early morning serenity.

9. 8 Days China Silk Road Private Tour to Xining, Zhangye, Dunhuang

Rated 5/5 from 3 reviews, this extensive 8-day tour at $2,538 offers a deep dive into China’s western landscapes. Highlights include Qinghai Lake, Rainbow Mountain, and the Gobi Desert. It’s perfect for adventurous travelers wanting to see the diverse terrains and cultural sites along the historic Silk Road. The itinerary includes visits to Pingshan Lake Grand Canyon and Danxia landscapes, offering fantastic photo opportunities and a chance to experience Tibetan culture.
Bottom line: For serious explorers willing to invest time and money, this tour offers a comprehensive adventure through China’s western frontier.

10. Full Day Xi’an Private: Terracotta Warriors and City Tour

Rated 5/5 from 2 reviews, this 8-hour private tour at $161 takes you to Xi’an’s most iconic sites. The highlight is the Terracotta Army, but you’ll also explore the Bell & Drum Towers and enjoy local food. The guide’s expertise ensures you get detailed insights into Xi’an’s history, and the private vehicle makes for a customized experience. With reviews praising the knowledgeable guide and the balanced schedule, it’s perfect for history lovers who value comfort and depth.
Bottom line: An excellent choice for travelers keen to explore Xi’an’s cultural treasures in comfort.

11. 9-Day Small Group China Tour to Beijing – Xi’an – Guilin

Rated 5/5 from 2 reviews, this all-in-one guided trip offers a balanced mix of major sights like the Great Wall, Terracotta Army, and the stunning Li River cruise. The itinerary includes interactions with locals, cycling around ancient city walls, and exploring Guilin’s landscape. It’s well-suited for travelers wanting a rundown with a guide handling logistics, making it ideal for first-timers or those who prefer a structured experience.
Bottom line: For a worry-free, well-rounded introduction to China’s highlights, this tour delivers.

12. 4-Day Private Tour Combo of Mohe and Arctic Village with Accommodation

Rated 5/5 from 2 reviews, this 4-day adventure at $2,700 offers a rare chance to see the Aurora Borealis in Mohe County, China’s northernmost point. The tour includes visiting the Beihong Village, Arctic Village Scenic Area, and scenic forests. It’s perfect for travelers looking for a remote, winter experience and who are prepared for cold weather and long days. The inclusion of accommodations makes it suitable for more serious explorers with a sense of adventure.
Bottom line: An unforgettable journey for those chasing natural phenomena and cold-weather scenery.

13. Jade Dragon Snow Mountain Glacier Cableway with Scenic Train Tour

Rated 5/5 from 9 reviews, this flexible 6-10 hour experience at $44.30 features riding the scenic train and taking the Glacier Cableway on Jade Dragon Snow Mountain. You’ll explore Blue Moon Valley and possibly enjoy the Impression Lijiang show. The tour is suitable for those who want a mix of scenic train rides and mountain tramways, with options to include different cableways depending on your fitness and interests. The reviews emphasize the stunning views and ease of access.
Bottom line: Great for those who want a scenic mountain adventure with minimal hassle.

14. Mini Group Tour Of Beijing Great Wall Including Hotel Pickup

Rated 5/5 from 2 reviews, this small-group tour offers an 8-hour exploration of Mutianyu with personalized service and hotel pickup. The small size (maximum 14 pax) helps avoid the crowds, and the tour includes time for photos and optional activities like a tea ceremony or acrobatic show. It’s perfect for travelers wanting a more intimate, relaxed experience at one of China’s most famous sites.
Bottom line: Excellent for travelers seeking a leisurely, personal visit with flexible options.

15. Hong Kong Night Adventure and Foodie Local Tour

Rated 5/5, this private foodie tour for up to 4 people at $385 combines culinary exploration with night city sights. You’ll sample local snacks, visit vibrant streets, and enjoy a luxury limo ride. While not in mainland China, it offers a fun, immersive way to experience Hong Kong’s lively after-dark scene—perfect for foodies and night owls.
Bottom line: A deliciously different way to experience Hong Kong’s lively culinary scene with comfort and style.

How to Choose Your Tour in China

When picking a tour, consider your budget, interests, and travel style. For a low-cost, no-fuss experience, the Mutianyu Great Wall Bus Tours deliver excellent value. If you’re craving a more personalized or private experience, the private Mutianyu Tour or the Xi’an Terracotta Warriors are ideal. For scenic mountain adventures, Jade Dragon Snow Mountain or the Wulong karst landscapes provide spectacular natural sights.
Think about your fitness level—some tours involve walking on uneven terrain or cable car rides—plus check the timing and whether you’re interested in day trips or multi-day explorations. Booking early always helps secure your spot, especially for popular tours like the Great Wall small group or the 9-day China tour.

Final Thoughts

China’s tour options are wide-ranging, from the iconic and well-trodden to the more adventurous and remote. For travelers who love history and want comfort, private tours like the Mutianyu private are hard to beat. If you’re after a quick but memorable experience, the affordable bus tours make it easy to tick off the Great Wall without fuss. Meanwhile, the Wulong karst offers dramatic natural scenery for nature lovers.

No matter your choice, booking early ensures you’ll get your preferred dates and avoid disappointment. With so many options, your trip to China can be tailored perfectly to your interests—whether that’s ancient walls, mountain vistas, or cultural cities. Happy travels!