China: 18-DAY Tour With Shanghai, Guilin,Yunnan and Beijing

Embark on an unforgettable 18-day journey across China’s most captivating destinations. Explore vibrant Shanghai’s stunning skyline and historic Bund, then cruise along the serene Li River in Guilin. Discover Yunnan’s rich culture in Dali and Kunming, before concluding your adventure in Beijing with the iconic Forbidden City and Great Wall. This comprehensive tour offers a perfect blend of tradition and modernity, leaving you eager to uncover more of China’s enchanting wonders.

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Key Points

An 18-day tour showcasing the diverse highlights of China, including the urban landscapes of Shanghai, the serene natural beauty of Guilin, and the cultural and geological wonders of Yunnan.
Exploration of the iconic Bund waterfront and Shanghai Tower in Shanghai, providing a glimpse into China’s transformation.
Tranquil Li River cruise in Guilin, surrounded by picturesque karst mountains and experiencing the countryside life.
Visits to Yuantong Temple and the remarkable Stone Forest in Kunming, offering insights into the region’s natural and cultural heritage.
Immersion in the Bai culture and the scenic beauty of Dali, along with culinary and historical experiences in Chengdu and Beijing.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Shanghai: Discovering the Bund and Skyscrapers

Visitors to Shanghai are captivated by the city’s stunning skyline and the iconic Bund waterfront.

They’ll stroll along the promenade, admiring the striking colonial-era buildings. The highlight is the Shanghai Tower, China’s tallest skyscraper, where they can take in panoramic views from the observation deck.

Nearby, they’ll explore the serene Yu Garden, a traditional oasis amid the modern high-rises.

With its vibrant blend of historic and contemporary elements, Shanghai offers a taste of China’s fast-paced transformation, leaving lasting impressions on all who visit.

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Guilin: Cruising the Picturesque Li River

After exploring the bustling metropolis of Shanghai, the tour moves to the serene landscapes of Guilin.

Travelers embark on a tranquil Li River cruise, gliding past stunning karst mountains, verdant rice paddies, and picturesque villages.

They’ll witness the region’s countryside life, including farmers tending their fields and water buffalo cooling in the river.

The cruise offers a peaceful respite from the urban buzz, allowing visitors to enjoy Guilin’s natural beauty.

This inland waterway journey is a highlight of the comprehensive tour, providing a glimpse into China’s diverse landscapes and rural traditions.

Kunming: Exploring the Ancient Stone Forest

From the serene landscapes of Guilin, the 18-day tour now heads to Kunming, the ‘City of Eternal Spring.’

Travelers will visit the Yuantong Temple, an important Buddhist site, and explore the remarkable Stone Forest, an other-worldly landscape of towering limestone formations.

The Stone Forest’s natural sculptures, carved by millennia of erosion, create a surreal, maze-like environment perfect for wandering and discovering hidden paths.

Visitors can wander among the jagged peaks, taking in the unique geology and natural beauty of this UNESCO World Heritage site before continuing on to the next destination, Dali.

Dali: Taking in the Charm of Xizhou and Erhai Lake

After exploring the captivating Stone Forest, the tour continues its journey to the charming city of Dali.

In Dali, the group visits the historical town of Xizhou, known for its well-preserved Bai architecture and vibrant local culture. They wander through the bustling markets, interact with friendly residents, and gain insights into the traditional Bai way of life.

Next, they head to the serene Erhai Lake, where they admire the stunning natural scenery and enjoy a boat ride.

This immersive experience in Dali offers a delightful blend of history, culture, and natural beauty.

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Lijiang: Marveling at Jade Dragon Snow Mountain and Naxi Culture

Leaving the charming city of Dali behind, the tour group now journeys to the picturesque town of Lijiang. Here, they will visit the breathtaking Jade Dragon Snow Mountain and enjoy the rich Naxi culture. The group will explore the UNESCO-listed Old Town, wandering through its winding cobblestone streets and admiring the traditional Naxi architecture. They’ll also have the opportunity to visit a local Naxi family, gaining insight into their unique way of life. With its stunning natural landscapes and captivating cultural heritage, Lijiang promises to be a highlight of the 18-day China tour.

| Activity | Duration |

| — | — |

| Jade Dragon Snow Mountain | 2-3 hours |

| Lijiang Old Town | 1-2 hours |

| Naxi Family Visit | 1 hour |

| Free Time | Remainder of the day |

| Transportation | 1-2 hours |

There's plenty more to explore in Lijiang

Shangri-La: Trekking Through Tiger Leaping Gorge and Songzanlin Lamasery

Departing the charming town of Lijiang, the tour group journeys onward to the captivating destination of Shangri-La.

Their first stop is the iconic Tiger Leaping Gorge, one of the deepest river canyons in the world. Trekking through the dramatic landscape, the group marvels at the towering peaks and cascading waterfalls.

Trekking through the dramatic landscape, the group marvels at the towering peaks and cascading waterfalls of the iconic Tiger Leaping Gorge.

Next, they visit the Songzanlin Lamasery, a stunning Tibetan Buddhist monastery that dates back to the 17th century. Wandering the grounds, they admire the intricate architecture and learn about the monastery’s rich cultural heritage.

This Shangri-La adventure offers a unique blend of natural splendor and spiritual enlightenment.

Chengdu: Pandas and Sichuan Culinary Delights

Chengdu, the vibrant capital of Sichuan province, awaits the tour group with its renowned pandas and tantalizing culinary delights.

The day begins at the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, where visitors marvel at the playful pandas.

After lunch, the group learns to cook authentic Sichuan dishes, mastering techniques like mapo tofu and kung pao chicken.

The evening allows free time to explore Chengdu’s bustling streets, sampling local street food and experiencing the city’s lively teahouse culture.

With pandas and Sichuan flavors, this stop promises an unforgettable culture.

Xi’an and Beijing: Uncovering the Terracotta Army and the Great Wall

The tour group now turns its attention to the ancient city of Xi’an, home to the awe-inspiring Terracotta Army.

Visitors marvel at the life-size clay soldiers, horses, and chariots, each with unique facial features. After exploring this archaeological wonder, the group ventures to the iconic Xi’an City Wall, a remarkable feat of engineering.

Awestruck by the Terracotta Army’s lifelike clay soldiers, the group then explores Xi’an’s iconic City Wall, an engineering marvel.

The journey then leads to Beijing, where the grand Forbidden City and the stunning Great Wall of China await.

Guests can:

Stroll through the vast imperial palace complex
Climb the winding steps of the Great Wall
Savor local cuisine in bustling street markets
Witness the city’s dynamic blend of ancient and modern.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Medical Insurance Provided During the Tour?

The tour overview does not mention whether medical insurance is provided during the tour. Travelers should check with the tour operator or their own insurance provider to ensure they have appropriate coverage for the duration of the trip.

What Is the Policy for Solo Travelers in This Tour?

The tour accommodates solo travelers. They’ll be paired with others of the same gender in double-occupancy rooms at no additional cost. Single rooms are available for a supplement fee.

Are There Any Additional Activities or Optional Excursions Available?

The tour offers several optional excursions, such as a visit to the Grand Buddha of Leshan and a cooking class in Chengdu. Guests can inquire about these activities upon booking or while on the tour.

How Much Luggage Can I Bring on the Tour?

The tour allows one piece of checked luggage and one carry-on per person. Travelers should pack light, as they’ll be moving between cities frequently. Excess baggage may incur additional fees and cause difficulties during transfers.

Is There Wi-Fi Available at the Hotels and During Transportation?

The tour provides Wi-Fi access at the hotels. However, Wi-Fi may not be available during transportation. Guests are encouraged to check with their guide or hotel staff for the latest information on Wi-Fi connectivity during the tour.

The Sum Up

Embarking on this 18-day tour of China, travelers will enjoy the country’s vibrant cities and serene landscapes. From the bustling skyline of Shanghai to the breathtaking karst mountains of Guilin, and from the ancient wonders of Yunnan to the iconic sites of Beijing, this comprehensive journey offers a perfect blend of tradition and modernity, leaving an indelible mark on the adventurous spirit.