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What is your picture about China, a fabulous land stretching for about 5,250 km from east to west and 5,500 km from north to south? It is hard to know what China is like without actually traveling here. China has so much to offer for everyone and will be sure to provide a memorable experience.
Highlights of this tour:
To show you an overall China with complete pictures and conceptions, you can take our 19 days China Panoramic tour for in-depth exploration. The highlights and iconic attractions include: 1) Ancient & Modern Face of China. China civilization dates back thousands of years. Trace in Beijing and Xian to Great Wall, Forbidden City, Terracotta Warriors to have amazing cultural experience and learn 5000 years’ of culture. While, in Shanghai, you can witness the fast development how China is going in recent years. 2) Ethnic Groups & Most Adorable Animals in the World. Get up close and personal with the Giant Pandas in their real hometown and have close contact with 25 ethnic groups in Yunnan. 3) Inspiring Karst Landscape, Beautiful Lakes & Avatar Mountains. James Cameron got fantastical landscape ideas for Avatar from Hunan Province's Zhangjiajie National Forest Park. The karst mountains in the Li River Valley that surround Yangshuo illustrate the 20 RMB bank note. This trip you take gets you out to see some of the amazing scenery China has to offer. 4) Incredible Food Experience in Different Destinations. Chinese food is varied across province and landscape. Every region has its own particular specialties and tastes. You are guaranteed with delicious Chinese food to whet your palate. There are more reasons to come. How about traveling here to get your own?
Basic Trip Information
Price:
from
$3497
1. This price is for one person, based on a group of 2 adults sharing one double-bed room in a 4-star hotel and traveling in low seasons;
2. This price is subject to change according to your traveling season, group size, hotel class, change of activities and possible fluctuation of currency exchange rate.
Arrival in Beijing, pay a visit to the classic attractions, including Tian'anmen Square, Forbidden City, Summer Palace, Mutianyu Great Wall, Sacred Way, Temple of Heaven and Summer Palace and more. After the tour, take a high speed train to Xian.
Day 5~6 Xian Tour
Visit Terracotta Warriors and Horses, Ancient City Wall, Muslim Quarter, Da Cien Temple, Great Mosque of Xian and have a look at Big Wild Goose Pagoda. Learn the history at Shaanxi History Museum. Take a high speed train to Chengdu.
Day 7 Chengdu Tour
Have a classic exploration in Chengdu, visit Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, Wenshu Temple, Renmin Park, Jinli Old Street.
Day 8~9 Guilin & Yangshuo Tour
Fly from Chengdu to Guilin. Take a visit to Elephant Trunk Hill, Reed Flute Cave before heading to Yangshuo. Take Li River cruise along the Li River, explore Yulong River, West Street in Yangshuo County.
Day 10~12 Lijiang Tour
Fly to Lijiang from Guilin. In the Naxi kingdom, you are going to visit Yuhu Village to the Former Residence of Joseph Rock, see Baisha Mural Painting in Baisha Village, explore freely in Shuhe Ancient Town and Lijiang Old Town. Take one day to see the First Bend of Yangtze River and hike to Tiger Leaping Gorge before head to Dali.
Day 13 Dali Tour
Have classic sightseeing in Dali. Visit Three Pagodas and Chongsheng Temple, Erhai Lake, Dali Old Town before taking a high speed train to Kunming.
Day 14~15 Kunming Tour
In the Spring City of China, visit Stone Forest, Yuantong Temple, Kunming Green Lake Park and Western Hills & Dragon Gatebefore fly to Zhangjiajie for amazing adventure.
Day 16~17 Zhangjiajie Tour
Explore in the Avatar World with bizaar mountains. Pay a visit to Huangshi Village, enjoy essence part of Golden Whip Stream, walk on the transparent Zhangjiajie Glass Bridge. And visit Yuanjiajie Scenic Area and Tianzi Mountain before fly to Shanghai.
Day 18~19 Shanghai Tour & Departure
In the modern metropolis, have classic discovery with visits to Shanghai Museum, Yu Garden, Shanghai World Financial Center, Nanjing Road, The Bund, Jade Buddha Temple and Tianzifang. Have a good understanding of its past and present and future of China. Leave Shanghai.
Full Itinerary Day by Day
Day 1 Beijing Arrival
Ni Hao, welcome to Beijing, the iconic city as well as the capital of China!
You will be met by your local tour guide at the arrival hall of Beijing Capital Airport, or railway station, then be escorted to check in your hotel in downtown by a private comfortable vehicle. The rest of today is on your own to relax. If you want to explore nearby, feel free to get some practical suggestions from your tour guide.
Arrival Ideas: At present, there are many international and domestic flights to Beijing. Besides, you can take a high speed train to this capital city from Shanghai (5-6 hrs), Xian (5.5 hrs), Guangzhou (8-9.5 hrs), etc.
Tour guide picked up our clients at Beijing airport
Day 2 Beijing (B, L)
After breakfast, start to explore the historical face of Beijing with a brief visit to Tiananmen Square, now the largest city plaza in the world. Tiananmen Gate on the northern side of the square was the site where Chairman Mao announced the establishment of the People's Republic of China.
Stepping into the Tiananmen, you will see one of the world's five most important palaces - Forbidden City (Palace Museum), a huge palace complex of more than 9,000 rooms where 24 emperors of the Ming and Qing Dynasties lived. Pass through various doorways in this magnificent structure to admire the beautiful and well-preserved buildings decorated with yellow-glazed tile roofs, white marble bases and splendid colorful paintings. After Forbidden City exploration, take a short visit to Jingshan Park where you can get a nice shot of one watchtower of Forbidden City and take a panoramic view of Forbidden City.
After lunch, drive to the outskirts of Beijing to spend an enjoyable time in the Summer Palace, the largest and best-preserved royal garden in China. Stroll around ancient pavilions, mansions, temples, bridges and corridors while feasting your eyes on the vast lotus in Kunming Lake and the colorful paintings in the Long Corridor.
Optional activities: 1) You can watch a wonderful Kungfu Show in the Red Theater (Hong Ju Chang) which usually starts at 19:30; 2) Enjoy the classic Chinese art performance of Beijing Opera at Liyuan Theater during 19:30-21:00.
The Fudol Couple visited Summer Palace with China Discovery
Linda's family visited the Forbidden City with China Disocvery
Day 3 Beijing (B, L)
After breakfast, drive about 70km to witness one of the Seven Wonders of the World - the Great Wall. Visit the Mutianyu, a less crowded yet well-preserved segment of the Great Wall built in the Ming Dynasty. It will more than live up to all of your expectations! This great wall, linking Gubeikou in the east and Juyongguan in the west, was served as the vital military strategic point in the ancient time. Moreover, Mutianyu section is the longest great wall in China so far and since protection work is well done here, tourists can now see its original appearance and enjoy the real ancient culture of great wall. Also, spectacular natural scenery in Mutianyu Great Wall always impresses visitors here for its abundant vegetation. You will take a cable car to ascend the Great Wall, then hike the most beautiful and interesting part of Mutianyu. It's a wonderful experience to climb up its rising towers to enjoy scenic views and take brag-worthy photos of the wall wriggling along mountain ridges. After the exciting time, descend Mutianyu Great Wall by cable car. (Note: If energy permits, you can hike up or down which takes about 40 minutes to climb steps. Please tell your likes to your travel consultant.)
Continue your trip to Sacred Way, a 7-kilometer-long passage leading to the Imperial Tombs of 13 Emperors of Ming Dynasty. The Emperor, known as the Son of the Heaven, who came from Heaven to his country through the Sacred Way, also would return to Heaven through this road. Take a walk through the largest archway in China and Great Palace Gate and you’ll see the magnificent stone guard of 12 sets of mythical animals and 12 officials. Then drive back to Beijing city and take a short stop at the Beijing Olympic Village to view its famous Bird’s Nest and Water Cube from the outside.
Optional activity: 1) Enjoy an exciting and safe toboggan ride (about 2~3mins) down Mutianyu Great Wall; 2) After the whole day's tour, treat yourself a great dinner to taste the famous Peking Roasted Duck.
Our customer Heidy visited Mutianyu Great Wall
Our customers visited Bird's Nest in 2019
Our Guest at the Sacred Way
Day 4 Beijing & High Speed Train to Xian (B, L)
After breakfast, drive to the imperial site of the Temple of Heaven. Originally a site used to pay homage to Heaven and pray for good harvests, it is now a bustling place where locals take part in traditional activities such as Tai Chi, dancing, kite flying, water calligraphy, and others.
Then get back to the central city to hop on a rickshaw to experience the Beijing Hutongs - small alleys made by neighboring quadrangle dwellings. Shuttle among different Hutongs to get a feel of the old Beijing lifestyle, visit various antique shops and small boutiques, and truly feel the historical changes of Beijing, also pay a visit to a local family's home in the traditional Hutongs.
Your Beijing tour is now about to end. Your tour guide will see you off at the Beijing West Railway Station for a high speed train trip to Xian (about 5 hours). You will be picked up by your tour guide at Xian North Railway Station and escorted to your hotel in Xian. The rest of the day is on your own to explore this ancient capital of China.
Fantastic View of Temple of Heaven Shared by Our Guest Daniel
Day 5 Xian (B, L)
After breakfast, drive about 40 km to discover one of the greatest man-made wonders in the world - the Terracotta Warriors and Horses, built by the first emperor of China Qin Shihuang to protect him in his afterlife. Over 8,000 life-size warriors, horses and chariots, buried in 3 pits for more than 2,000 years until uncovered by a local farmer in 1974, form an ancient military army with complete battle units of infantry, cavalry, etc. Standing in front of these figures, one can’t help being amazed not only by the ambition of Emperor Qin Shihuang but also by the fabulous artistic skills of ancient Chinese artisans. (Before the Terracotta Warriors Museum visit, you will have a rare opportunity to make a miniature Terracotta Warrior on your own under the instruction of a local potter.)
After lunch, return to Xian to spend a leisure time on the Ancient City Wall, the largest and best-preserved ancient city wall in China. Just like the merchants and envoys on the Silk Road thousands of years ago, you will enter the interior of the city walls through the Hanguang Gate. There you will visit a mini museum to see the real Tang Dynasty city wall ruins from over 1400 years ago, including gateways, cross-sections of the wall, and the remains of water channels. After the museum visit, get up to the city wall to enjoy a leisure stroll and pleasant panoramic views of Xian city. Rent a bike (extra cost: 45RMB) to enjoy a relaxing cycling on the Wall is strongly recommended. The cycling routes and duration are flexible. Feel free to discuss with your tour guide. Leave the City Wall, then go to wander leisurely around the bustling and lively Muslim Quarter, a place where you can try different local snacks and explore Muslim culture.
This evening you will be offered an interesting visit to Grand Tang Dynasty Ever Bright City which is a great place to walk, enjoy amazing nightscape and most importantly recall the prosperity and glory of the mighty Tang Dynasty. Seeing this area at night is totally different as the lighting is marvelous yet tastefully done.
Optional activity: enjoy a wonderful Tang Palace Dance Show (usually from 8pm to 9pm) after (or without) a hearty dumpling dinner.
Our guests biking on the Ancient City Wall
Amazing Different Terra Cotta Warriors, Picture Taken by Elie from Belge in 2019
Muslim Quarter, Picture Shared by Our Guest Anath from India
Dazzling Grand Tang Dynasty Ever Bright City lovely night views
Day 6 Xian & High Speed Train to Chengdu (B, L)
After breakfast, head to Da Cien Temple, a famous Buddhist sutra translation site during the Tang Dynasty. Big Wild Goose Pagoda is the most famous building in the temple. The pagoda, rising to a height of 64.5 meters, was built by the famous Buddhist master Xuanzang to preserve classic scriptures he bought back from India during the early Tang Dynasty. Xuanzang was the prototype character for Tang Seng in the famous Chinese novel “Journey to the West”. (Note: It costs an extra 30 RMB if you want to climb up the Big Wild Goose Pagoda)
Next is an educational visit to the Shaanxi History Museum where you can ramble in the modern exhibition halls to appreciate historic relics such as porcelains, paintings, and currencies dating from the Zhou to the Tang dynastic periods (1100BC to 907 AD). (Note: Shaanxi History Museum may be replaced with other activity or attraction because of crowding tourists during July ~ early September and China’s National Day during Oct.1-Oct.7. You may check details with your travel consultant.)
After the tour, you’ll be escorted to Xian North Railway Station for a high speed train to Chengdu (about 3.5~4 hours). Welcome to Chengdu, the Hometown of Giant Pandas! Upon your arrival at Chengdu East Railway Station, you will be met by local guide and then transferred to your hotel in Chengdu downtown. The rest of today is free on your own to explore this laid-back city.
Collections in Shaanxi History Museum
Our customer Josh from USA visited Big Wild Goose Pagoda in December 2020
Day 7 Chengdu (B, L)
This morning you will make a stirring visit to Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding which is not only the most important panda scientific research center, but also dwelling home to more than 100 Giant Pandas. Walk at leisure through the bamboo framed paths, and closely observe giant pandas of different ages eating bamboos, playing with each other, tumbling, climbing trees, etc. Don't miss the chance to visit the most adorable panda cubs in the panda kindergartens. If you are lucky, you may be able to see the precious panda babies in the nursery rooms. There is also a very informative Panda Museum where you can learn more scientific facts about Giant Pandas.
Leaving the panda center, you will be taken to a hidden spiritual Buddhist temple in the bustling downtown of Chengdu - Wenshu Temple. Marvel at the exquisite Buddhist architecture, soak in the reverent atmosphere, and wander on the peaceful paths. Adjacent to the monastery is a small bazaar (Wenshufang) where you can enjoy a leisure stroll through to experience local market and living style.
Chengdu is famous for its relaxing and leisure pace throughout China, which will be proved after a stay in Renmin Park. Sit down, order a pot of Chinese tea, make a casual chat with your friends and watching locals indulging themselves in different kinds of folk entertainment - napping in a lively teahouse, playing mahjong, disco dancing, neck massage, ear cleaning... Next is an impressive trip to the famous Jinli Old Street. Time steals away from you quietly while walking on the lively streets which are full of delicious local snacks, delicate artifacts, interesting folk shows, etc.
At the end, your guide will escort you to your hotel.
Recommended Optional Evening Activities: 1) enjoy a delicious dinner of Sichuan cuisine (or hotpot) at a local restaurant; 2) watch a wonderful performance of Sichuan Opera which includes folk opera, face changing, fire spitting, rolling lights, and other delightful entertainment (usually performs during 20:00~21:30).
Mama and Baby of Panda
Our clients enjoying local Chinese tea in the People's Park
Try Chengdu local snacks at Jinli Old Street
Day 8 Flight to Guilin from Chengdu (B, L)
In this early morning, be escorted to Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport to take your flight to Guilin (around 1.5 hrs).
Upon arrival, your local guide and driver in Guilin will meet you at the airport Then make a visit to the symbol of Guilin landscape - Elephant Trunk Hill. A giant rock hill vividly shapes like an elephant which is drinking water. Besides, there are many historical sites here for you to explore, such as stone carving, Buddhist temple, relic exhibition, etc. Then, drive about 7 kilometers to next attraction - Reed Flute Cave, a majestic underground palace with sparkling different colors. The magical Mother Nature condenses millions years of natural efforts to form the incredible stalactite, stalagmite, stone shield and stone waterfall of different sizes and shapes.
Accommodate in Guilin City.
Reed Flute Cave Crystal Palace, Taken by Delma from Ireland in July, 2021
Day 9 Guilin - Li River Cruise - Yangshuo (B, L)
As the declaration in Chinese textbook "Guilin’s landscape is the best under heaven", today you will explore this best landscape starting with a relaxing sightseeing cruise along the Li River from Mopanshan Pier to Yangshuo Town. Along the 84-kilometer cruise, dazzling scenery overwhelms your eyes like a vast endless Chinese painting of winding river, green limestone karst mountains, fascinating countryside views, amazing scene of A Painting of Nine Horses, and notable view printed on the back of the 20 RMB note. (Please note: Lunch is served by the cruise with simple local Chinese cuisine. And you can take some snacks when getting on board.)
After about 4 hours’ cruise, disembark in Yangshuo Town, and check in your hotel. After a short break, start your impressive exploration of the best charming sightseeing and ideal countryside ease at Yulong River. Let all the refreshing scenes please your eyes and souls to the utmost. Just enjoy every moment with the Karst hills dotted around, chatting stream, rippling mountain reflection, swaying floras, patches of vivid crops, comfortable breeze….There are diverse kinds of ways for your enjoyment of the fun and beauty, including biking, hiking, sightseeing bus, bamboo rafting and scooter. You can easily choose and combine your ideal way(s) and part of Yulong River. (Please tell your likes to your travel consultants before booking the tour, as the final prices will differ by activities you choose.).
Biking (some physically demanding & sightseeing by the river) - Ride to enjoy the river view and the real fields (route: Yangshuo - Jima - Shuiedi Dock - Gongnong Bridge - West Street; for 1.5-2 hours).
Bamboo Rafting (relaxing and interesting & sightseeing on the river) - have fun with the classic bamboo rafting (Route A: Shuiedi Dock - Gongnong Bridge for 40-50 minutes; Route B: Jima Dock - Gongnong Bridge for 1.5 hours) to see the more serene view like pieces of traditional Chinese landscape ink paintings.
Sightseeing Bus (most leisurable and comfortable & sightseeing on the road) - sit leisurely on the bus from Jima to Gongnong Bridge to appreciate the lovely countryside view (about 0.5 hour). You can get off and on anywhere on the middle way to explore more about your interested place.
After that, walk leisurely on the ancient West Street to witness how the western culture and Chinese culture perfectly and peacefully coexist here. Whether you want to enjoy a cup of drink in bar, taste some local food, or just experience the relaxing atmosphere, you get it here.
Note: according to the regulations of Yulong River Tourism, children less than 1 meter high and elders over 70 years old are not allowed to take the bamboo rafting.
Optional evening activity:
Watch the splendid evening performance of Impression Liu Sanjie with the Li River itself as the stage, which was directed by famous director - Zhang Yimou (usually performs for an hour between around 19:45 and 22:20).
Guilin Li River Scenery on 20 RMB Chinese Note, Taken by Claire from UK in October 2021
Skip's Group from USA Enjoyed Yangshuo Ten-mile Gallery Panorama from Moon Hill in 2018
Chusi's Family Visited Moon Hill at Yangshuo Ten-mile Gallery in June, 2018
Yangshuo West Street at Night, Photo by China Discovery in October 2018
Day 10 Yangshuo & Flights to Lijiang from Guilin (B, L)
In this early morning, you’ll be escorted from Yangshuo to Guilin Liangjiang Airport for your flight to Lijiang (about 2 hours). Welcome to Lijiang! Upon arrival, the local guide and driver will meet you at the arrival hall and take you to your hotel in Lijiang Old Town area.
In this afternoon, you’ll be transferred out of Lijiang Old Town to Yuhu Village which is located at the foot of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain. Walking into this authentic Naxi Village, you’ll see unique stone houses, Naxi ladies dressing in traditional clothes, kids playing, a tranquil Yuhu Lake…explore leisurely around the village and then go to explore the Former Residence of Joseph Rock, who was an Austrian-American Botanist came to Lijiang and stayed in Yuhu Village for 27 years and made huge research work on Naxi minority.
Later, head to Baisha Village and appreciate the ancient Baisha Mural Paintings. Houses here are arranged on a north-south axis around a central, terraced square. Visit Dabaoji Palace and Liuli Temple to view murals painted over 1000 years ago which depict subjects relating to Buddhism, Taoism and the life of the Naxi people, incorporating cultural elements of the Bai people. (Optional experience: You can have in-depth cultural experience to learn how to make Baisha embroidery instructed by the local masters in Baisha Village.)
Daisy from Thailand visited Yuhu Village in 2018
Daisy from Thailand visited Baisha Village in 2018
Day 11 Lijiang (B, L)
After breakfast, your guide and driver will pick you up at your hotel. First, drive about 52 kilometers from Lijiang to view the First Bend of Yangtze River. The upper reach of the Yangtze River is Jinsha River coming down from Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau and when it arrives at Shigu Town, it is obstructed by Hailuo Mountain and forms a V-shape turn. Then it changes the direction and goes to the northeast. You’ll reach the observation deck to catch a panoramic view of the bend, an extraordinary turn nearly about 180 degrees with beautiful and marvelous views like a wonderful landscape painting unfolding before your eyes. You’ll have a look at local market and Red Army’s Long March Memorial Monument in Shigu Town.
Later, be transferred to visit the one of the deepest and most spectacular river canyon in the world - Tiger Leaping Gorge. It is also a part of UNESCO World Heritage Site called Three Parallel of Yunnan Protected Areas. This steep gorge is situated between the 5596 meters Jade Dragon Snow Mountain to the south and 5396 meters Haba Snow Mountain to the north. Measuring 17 kilometers in length, the whole gorge is divided into three parts: upper, middle and lower gorge and you’ll pay a visit to the maturest section - Upper Tiger Leaping Gorge. Walk about 1,000 stairs along the plank road from the entrance to the Tiger Leaping Rock. Take a moment to enjoy the magnificent gorge view and rolling waves. (Travel tip: This gorge is suitable for most travelers with easy walk. Comfortable shoes are recommended.)
After that, drive back to Lijiang downtown area to Dongba Culture Museum where more than 10,000 Dongba cultural relics show mysterious Dongba culture of the Naxi people. Take a gentle walk to Black Dragon Pool Park to enjoy gorgeous view and peaceful surroundings. If weather permits, get to the best spot to overlook the snow-capped Jade Dragon Snow Mountain and shoot some amazing pictures.
Carrie from China visited Black Dragon Pool Park in 2021
Ana's Group from Belgium and Mexico visited Tiger Leaping Gorge in 2020
Leo from UK visited Dongba Culture Museum in 2019
Daisy from Thailand visited First Bend of Yangtze River in 2018
Day 12 Lijiang - Dali (B, L)
In this morning, enjoy a memorable tour to wander in Lijiang Ancient Town (Dayan Ancient Town). Established in the Ming dynasty as a commercial center, Lijiang Old Town is a well-preserved 800-year-old town for Naxi ethnic group, listed as UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997. Walk to the central area of the old town and visit Mufu Palace. A saying goes “there is Forbidden City in the North, Mu’s Residence in the South”. Mu’s Residence was called the miniature Forbidden City. Looked from a far distance, it likes a grand imperial palace and it is famous for the grandness and architectural buildings. Getting into the palace, you can know Tusi’s ruling history and appreciate Naxi people’s brilliant culture and fine arts. Then, wander through the old alleys, old bridges, featured shops and bars to Sifang Street Square, a mingling ground to enjoy lively atmosphere and unwind yourself. If time permits, join the Naxi people and tourists to dance happily in a round. (Optional Activity: Take a leisure walk up to the Lion Hill and climb up the 33-meter-tall Wanggu Tower - the landmark building of Lijiang to enjoy a panoramic view of the whole old town and overlook the magnificent Jade Dragon Snow Mountain in the distance.)
After the tour, be driven to Dali for about 2 hours. Welcome to Dali! The rest of the day in free on your own to explore this charming city.
Rosa's Group from Spain visited Mufu Palace in 2023
Marcin from USA visited Lijiang Old Town in 2023
Louis from Singapore visited Lijiang Old Town in 2021
Day 13 Dali & High Speed Train to Kunming (B, L)
After breakfast, the local guide and driver will pick you up at your hotel. First, pay a visit the symbol of Dali - Three Pagodas and Chongsheng Temple. Built in 10th century in Nanzhao Kingdom, Three Pagodas is made of one big pagoda and two small pagodas forming a symmetric triangle. If you look at it from a distance, the pagodas are like three giant ballpoint pens breaking up the landscape of the never-ending mountains. Here, you’ll get close to look at the pagodas to know more history and stories, visit the royal temple in Dali - Chongsheng Temple, take awesome photos of Three Pagodas and the reflections…
After that, go to have a relaxing boat trip on the vast Erhai Lake (Ear-shaped Sea) with crystal clear water and charming landscape, which is reputed as the “Immaculate Jade between Mountains”. On Erhai Lake cruise, you’ll enjoy the green Cangshan Mountain and Three Pagodas from afar as well as lots of birds and seagulls flying over the lake. Enjoy an excursion to one of the famous islands for an in-depth look at the peaceful Bai fishing village and other sites on island.
Later, be followed a trip to explore Dali Old Town. Used to be the ancient capital of Nanzhao and Dali Kingdoms, Dali Old Town is formed in the square-shaped structure, laid out on a typical north-south, east-west axis with five north-south and eight east-west streets. Wander leisurely through the historic streets with weeping willows dancing and colorful flowers blooming in the sunshine. You will visit the symbolic Wuhua Tower in a drum tower outlook. Continue to find Honglongjing (Red Dragon Well) with lovely view of clear water flow on layers of stone stages between the ancient dwelling houses and modern bars. Walk along Renmin Road to visit those bustling shops selling Yunnan specialties and some interesting items and then encounter the only Christianity church in this Chinese old town to feel the mixture culture there. As you feel the ancient flavor of the old site, stroll to the famous must-visit Foreigner Street to soak in the busy atmosphere along the old path and in those boutique shops and old coffee shops. Enjoy your time roam in this famous old town and feel like going back to the old times.
After the tour, you’ll be escorted to Dali Railway Station for a high speed train to Kunming (about 2 hours). Upon arrival, you’ll be met by the local guide and driver and escorted to Kunming downtown area for accommodation.
Our guest Louis J from Belg visited Three Pagodas of Chongsheng Monastery in December 2021
Erhai Lake Winter View, Photographed by Carrie in January 2019
Wuhua Tower in Dali Old Town, Photographed by Our Guest Carrie in 2019
Day 14 Kunming (B, L)
After breakfast, drive 85 km to the typical Karst landform - Stone Forest. As the “Essence of World Karst Landform”, Stone Forest has been listed as the UNESCO World Natural Heritage with the incomparable coverage of 12 square kilometers’ stone pinnacle groups. Take the sightseeing bus to visit the Greater Stone Forest Scenic Area to admire the typical concentrating cinerous stone pinnacles by walking through the maze of stone peaks and jumping high for the panorama of the forest of protruding stone peaks. Also, you will see the famous peak on many photos and even stones towering over 40 meters. Then, continue to ride the bus to explore the Lesser Stone Forest to closely look at the iconic stone “Ashima” like a young lady, listen to the touching love story of Ashima, and fill your eyes with the emerald garden-like park of wilder stone peaks surrounded by lush green plants and blossoms. Take the sightseeing bus to exit the scenic park.
After the discovery, drive back to Kunming downtown for a cultural visit to Yuantong Temple that is one of the top oldest Buddhist temples in Kunming with more than 1,200 years’ history. Take your stroll there to feel the rich Buddhist atmosphere of three Buddhist sects filling the antique halls and houses specially designed into a traditional Chinese garden layout for a quite different appreciation of temple in China.
Then, walk to Kunming Green Lake nearby. This pretty park with a lovely lake, old-styled pavilions, corridors, flowers, etc. is the most popular place for an authentic feeling of local Kunming people’s leisure life with citizens singing, dancing, talking, exercising, etc. During November to the next March, Black-headed Gulls from Siberian will never be late to fly there for their expecting comfortable warm winter holiday. Do not miss playing with those adorable and vigorous elfin during your relaxing roam!
Major Stone Forest
Kunming Green Lake Winter Scenery photoed by our customer Marcin
Customers from Italy visited Kunming Yuantong Temple
Day 15 Kunming & Flights to Zhangjiajie (B, L)
In this morning, you’ll pay a visit the famous Western Hills which is called “Sleeping Beauty Hills”, looking like a beautiful young lady lying beside Dian Lake (the largest freshwater in Yunnan and famed as the “Pearl on the Plateau”). It is a particularly pleasant experience to walk in such verdant forest mountain park with elegant sightseeing and a series of cultural relics and sites, including some old temples. You will not miss the symbolic visit to the magic Dragon Gate as it says “If you do not visit Western Hill, you haven't visited Kunming; if you do not come to Dragon Gate, you haven't been to Western Hills”, where to admire the colorful old grottoes on the wall and catch the panoramic view of the large peaceful Dianchi Lake and Kunming City. (You can visit the temples if interested. Huating Temple and Taihua Temple are included in the ticket.)
After the tour, be transferred to Kunming Changshui International Airport for your flight to Zhangjiajie (about 2 hours). Upon arrival, the local guide and driver in Zhangjiajie will transfer you directly to your hotel in Wulingyuan downtown in Zhangjiajie by our comfortable private car (non-smoking), and the guide will help you check in. The rest of today is on your own to explore this fabulous city in China.
Kunming Western Hill
Day 16 Zhangjiajie National Forest Park & Zhangjiajie Glass Bridge & Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon (B, L)
Today, after breakfast, you will be met by our guide and driver and then driven to start your exciting visit to Zhangjiajie National Forest Park. You will first take the cable car up to Huangshi Village to appreciate the wide forest park on its peaks. The village site has an altitude of 1080 meters, which is praised for its similar charm of pillar forest of Colorado in the USA. Enjoying the flat the wide visual environment, it is so far the largest natural viewing deck for visitors for a perfect admiration of its various rising stones and hills. Enjoy your fresh walk to visit the top famous sights including Star Picking Stand, Five Finger Peak, and so on, and find those looking like bridge piers, etc. from a distance. Take cable car to get down.
Later, change your angle to explore the famous Golden Whip Stream deep in the valley. This totally 7.5 kilometers long brook is one of the most beautiful places in the whole forest park area. You’ll explore the essential part.Take an inspiring roam along the whispering pristine water on the paved path to immerse into tranquil wonderland with fresh air, colorful blooming flowers in different seasons, lush vegetation, etc. and be prepared to encounter with some wild monkeys.
After that, take a sightseeing bus to exit the park and be driven to Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon for about 40 minutes. Now, its your bold moment to take the challenge and walk on the transparent Zhangjiajie Glass Bridge to feel like walking on the clouds, which is the world longest and highest glass-bottomed bridge so far in the whole universe, with total length of 430 meters and height of 400 meters above the deep valley. After the thrilling moment, take the elevators and enjoy the Nuokeli Slideway to the valley bottom for a cooling down and please your both eyes with the fascinating natural sceneries of the lush forest, emerald lake, various vegetation, etc. at the popular Rainbow Square, Momo Cave, the Holy Spring Lake, etc.
After the visiting, be driven for another 40 minutes back to your hotel in Wulingyuan. Have a good sleep!
Huangshi Village Taken by Our Client Keena from USA in September 2020
Golden Whip Stream Taken by Our Client Keena from USA in September, 2020
Luliia from Russia Takein by Our Client Luliia from Russia in September, 2020
Our clients Susa's group from Germany visited Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon in October, 2021
Day 17 Yuanjiajie - Tianzi Mountain & Flight to Shanghai (B, L)
On this day, after breakfast, visit Wulingyuan to get more highlights. First take a sightseeing bus to experience Bailong Elevator, the fastest elevator and also the tallest outdoor elevator in the world. Enjoy the 1.5 minutes to be shot from the valley bottom up to the pillar peak. And then, hike amongst the multiple erupting stone columns at Yuanjiajie Scenic Area and open the mysterious “Pandora World”. During the exciting hike, get a good preparation to have an enviable look at the South Sky Pillar of around 150 meters high, the authentic prototype inspiring the “Avatar Hallelujah Mountain”; enjoy the best scenery at Enchanting Platform with tens and hundreds of beautiful stone peaks similar to a lot of nutritious bamboo shoots towering from the ground; also, closely watch the peculiar First Bridge of the World that is naturally made with an only 5-meter long stone platform linking the two peaks together to form the rare world wonder.
Then, take the sightseeing bus to visit Tianzi Mountain. Walk to He Long Park there, which is the best viewing deck to admire very closely the incredible and magnificent view of odd stone peaks standing one after another. Most appealing pictures of the four wonders of Tianzi Mountain are photographed there, including the mists and clouds, moonlight, rays of sunshine and winter snow. Also, step a little further to Tianzi Pavilion nearby to enjoy the marvelous view and terrific sightseeing of the Xihai Peak Forest from another angle of view. After that, take the cool Tianzi Mountain Cable Car down with groups of rockery hills passing by outside your glass window, and then take the sightseeing bus to exit Wulingyuan Park.
After the exciting scenic visit, our guide and driver will escort you to Zhangjiajie Hehua Airport for your flight to Shanghai (about 2 hours). Upon arriving in Shanghai, the local guide and driver will meet you at the airport and transfer you to the hotel in Shanghai downtown. Have a good rest tonight!
Bailong Elevator Taken by Allan's Family from Canada in December 2020
Millicent's group from USA visited Hallelujah Mountain at Yuanjiajie in April 2021
Tianzi Mountain Cable Car Taken by Chona from Philippines in September, 2018
Day 18 Shanghai (B, L)
After breakfast, your guide and driver will pick you up at your hotel. Today, the first stop is to visit Shanghai Museum, the No. 4 museum in China. Enter into the “round heaven and square earth” and enjoy over 120,000 precious historic Chinese artistic relics, from bronze, ceramics, painting and calligraphic works to jade, coins, seals and sculpture, etc. You won’t miss Da Ke Ding, the precious treasure of Shanghai Museum, showing the history and economy of the West Zhou Dynasty (1046 BC-771 BC).
Then, be followed a trip to Yu Garden, a shining star among all dotted ancient Chinese gardens in Jiangnan which fully embodies the traditional design of architecture. Jagged pavilion with elegant decoration, glittering pools with roving fish, sprouting pine trees, all these pleasant scenes refresh your mood. Adjacent to the garden is the Yuyuan Bazaar where you can savor tasteful local snacks and explore elaborate traditional Chinese handicrafts and art works.
Later, drive to Lujiazui Area of Pudong New District to visit Shanghai World Financial Center (SWFC) where you can have a panoramic view of the whole Shanghai and Huangpu River area. Ascend yourselves to 474 meters on the 100th floor to experience sky walk on the transparent glass-walled walkway and feel Shanghai lying at your feet and blue sky over your head.
You will then transfer to another popular landmark of Shanghai - Nanjing Road which is shopping paradise as well as a great place to take a wonderful walk to experience the local modern atmosphere. Lastly, you will stop at the Bund. Originally the towpath for transporting, the Bund transformed into a feverish trading district. Stroll along the Bund, feel the perfect fusion of Chinese culture and Western culture, and seize the stunning Shanghai skyline with your own eyes.
Optional activity: 1). Attend an entertaining and breathtaking Acrobatic Show, including balls of death, balance of chairs, hula hoops, juggling benches, walking in the air, etc. 2). Take a Huangpu River Cruise to enjoy the night view of Shanghai.
Enjoy Shopping on Fashion Nanjing Road
Shanghai Museum - One of the Best Four Museums in China
The Tranquil Yu Garden with Classical Chinese Style to Relax
Day 19 Shanghai & Shanghai Departure (B)
After breakfast, your guide and driver will pick you up at your hotel. First, you will pay a wonderful visit to Jade Buddha Temple, the site of the largest Jade Buddha in the world and numerous religious artifacts, ancient statues and Buddhist scriptures. This peaceful kingdom of Buddhism hidden among modern blocks and dominating mansions is a great place for a nice break in this very busy city.
Next, you will be transferred to Tianzifang which is touristic arts and crafts enclave that has developed from a renovated traditional residential area. It is the typical tourist attraction to appreciate the preservation of local Shikumen architecture. In this place full of rich flavor of life, you can leisurely stroll along the clean old alleys to watch the daily life of local Shanghai people, savor a cup of drink at the open-air café, and find some interesting things in the novel shops to feel the international feature mixed with real Shanghai culture.
In the afternoon, your guide will escort you to the airport for your flight to next destination or home.
Woo's group visited Jade Buddha Temple
Spend Leisure Time at the Mazy Lanes of Tianzifang
+3 more days to unveil the holy city on the Himalaya - Lhasa
Lhasa is not only the capital city of Tibet, but also the economic, cultural and traffic center of Tibet. It is the essence of whole Tibet.
For those who want to experience the very essence of Tibet in a short stay, this 3 Day Lhasa Tour is the idea trip. You will visit the most famous temples and palaces and experience the most authentic Tibetan culture - Appreciate the grandiose architectural style of Potala Palace; Observe the daily living and studying life of monks in Tibetan monasteries; Get touched by the devoted pilgrimage culture of local Tibetan people...
+ 4~5 days' vacation to cruise the majestic Yangtze River
The leisure Yangtze River Cruise, ideal way to explore both the nature and culture of China!
While taking a Yangtze River cruise, you will not only relax in various interesting onboard activities, such as Tai Chi class, dancing shows, parties, but also enjoy the stunning scenery along the mighty Yangtze River. The best highlights are the world-famous Three Gorges Dam and beautiful Three Gorges. At the same time, you will have a flexible choice between different ships of different standard and features, such as Victoria Cruise, New Century Cruise, etc. At China Discovery, we offer you all the best luxury yangtze cruise ships at the best price.
Downstream Cruise: Chongqing - Yichang (4 Days 3 Nights) Upstream Cruise: Yichang - Chongqing (5 Days 4 Nights)
The quotation for this trip is from
$3497 Per Person
1. This price is for one person, based on a group of 2 adults sharing one standard double-bed room in 4-star hotel and traveling with our private tour in low seasons. 2. This price is subject to change according your traveling season, group size, hotel class, change of activities in your itinerary and possible fluctuation of currency exchange rate. If you want a lower price, you can get more people to join you, or use economy class hotels.
3. This price is only valid to March 31, 2025.
4. Reference exchange rate of USD 1=RMB 6.85. The final quote is based on current exchange rate. It may change according to the currency fluctuation, while the RMB quotation will be remained the same.
What's included?
Professional licensed English-speaking guide;
Admission tickets for all attractions listed in the itinerary;
Accommodation as listed in the itinerary (4-star standard);
Necessary vehicle transfers as listed in the itinerary;
Domestic flights (economy class) and high-speed trains (second class) as listed in the itinerary;
Airport (and train station) pick up and drop off;
Luggage Transfers: between airports (railway station) and hotels;
All meals as listed( “B” for Chinese and Western breakfast buffet in your hotel; “L” for Chinese Lunch in local restaurant; “D” for Chinese dinner in local restaurant.);
Accident insurance;
Our service charge, including tour planning, handling, operational and communication charges.
What's excluded?
China visa;
Personal expenses;
Accommodation not listed in the itinerary;
Single Room Supplement;
Tourist sites which are not listed in the itinerary;
Recommended optional activities;
Flights or trains not listed in the itinerary;
Excess Baggage Charges;
Optional tips to guides, drivers, etc.
Check What our delighted customers are saying about our services
Hi Mr Wang,
Thanks! I had a weekend away to Xi’an, China to celebrate my birthday. It was an exciting weekend and it was certainly something off the beaten trail for most of my friends. The itinerary you have suggested provided good coverage of the city’s rich history. From the fascinating Terracotta Army to the City Walls to the sacred Mount Hua, to the Muslim Quarter to the Drum & Bell Towers, there’s an interesting story from every historical era in Xi’an. I managed to hike up Mount Hua from North Peak to West Peak, but I didn’t get to do the dangerous plank walk as it was closed.
The hotel Eastern House was very accessible too with food places within steps and its proximity to the Drum Tower is a plus. The room was very clean and comfortable.
At this point, I have to quickly mention our amazing tour guide Betty Jiao Yan who was assigned to us as part of our private tour package. She made our time feel so very special and I wonder if Xi'an would have been as awesome without her. She had such a positive and caring nature and when we had to say goodbye, we felt very sad. It was strange to miss a guide after only knowing her for 5 days! Luckily we still keep in touch on WeChat. Our driver Mr Ma was very polite, punctual and accommodating, making our travel a pleasant experience
Anne
Anne‚ Singapore, January 25, 2024
Hi Jack,
Thanks. The Harbin and Snow Town trip was excellent and very enjoyable. We are now in Japan skiing, and will send our feedback upon our return on 31st Jan.
Best wishes
Leong
Leong‚ Singapore, January 24, 2024
Hi Rita,
From my end, everything is remarkable! Jane is amazing! She really make us feel welcome.
All the hotels were amazing too! My parents also very impressed.
I will definitely reaching out again, next time when I visit China. There’s many more places I want to visit.
Best regards,
Jefry
Jefry‚ Indonesia, January 21, 2024
Dear Rita,
We are home. Thanks for arranging this nice trip. Everything worked out nicely except the smoking room problem in Chengde.
Thanks again.
John
John‚ USA, January 19, 2024
Hi Rita,
In response to your enquiries, we had a wonderful experience with the tour arrangements in both Guilin and Yangshuo. Both the tour guide and driver were very professional and handled the arrangements well.
I am surely recommending any friends or relatives who are interested in travelling to China in future to use China Discovery. Also, will be looking at other destinations for ourselves too.
Check What our customers are saying about us on Tripadvisor.com
We are one of the few China travel agencies who have kept active and received lots of feedbacks
and reviews during pandemic years
Thitikorn C
"China Discovery is very professional agent in China...last January 2024, I contacted Vivien again to Huangshan and she has shown her professional as an agent with quick response and keep contacting me..." read more »
Reviewed on February 17, 2024
Thitikorn C
"China Discovery is very professional agent in China...last January 2024, I contacted Vivien again to Huangshan and she has shown her professional as an agent with quick response and keep contacting me..." read more »
To make your life more colorful and interesting, you could take our best-selected optional activities in the most popular destinations like Beijing, Xian, Chengdu and Shanghai.
You have the final say whether you want it or not. It would be better to decide when you are in the destinations. On one hand, the shows and performances may change according to season and weather. On the other hand, you can check your physical condition, time and discuss with your experienced local guide who may give you useful suggestions. If you are interested, your patient guide will accompany you there and escort you back to your hotel. Please pay attention that extra fee is charged for the optional shows and activities.
In Beijing
Option One: Beijing Kungfu Show
Place: Beijing Red Theater
Show Time: Daily 17:15 - 18:30 and 19:30 - 20:45
Nearby Attractions: Temple of Heaven
Useful Advice: You’d better watch it after visiting Temple of Heaven on the second day in Beijing.
Beijing Kung Fu Show is a mix of traditional martial arts and modern dance which has become the most loved Kung Fu show in China. The Kung Fu show not only shows about the performance of Chinese Kung Fu, but also tells about the story of Chinese young boy who dreams to become a Kung Fu master. The whole story includes seven scenes from “Initiation”, “Learning”, “Casting”, “Illusion”, “Remorse”, “Passing through the Gate”, to “Enlightenment”. It will be a memorable experience to watch the Legend of Kung Fu when traveling in Beijing.
Option Two: Beijing Roast Duck
Place: Several restaurants are offered. You may use the one close to tourist sites and your hotel.
Nearby Attractions: Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square, Temple of Heaven
Useful Advice: Enjoy Beijing Roast Duck after visiting Great Wall on the third day in Beijing.
To enjoy the local flavor of Beijing, you should not miss Beijing Roast Duck. The roast duck is with thin, crisp skin and tempting color and its meat is fresh, tender, rich and fat but not greasy. Getting into the roast duck restaurants, you could catch the chance to know more about how a Beijing Roast Duck is made and watch the cook slice the duck into pieces with both skin and meat for each. When taste the duck, you could wrap duck, scallion, cucumber in a pancake or a sesame bun. Also, you could choose some other spices and sauce when tasting the delicious duck.
Option Three: Beijing Opera
Place: Yiyuan Theater
Show Time: 19:30 - 20:50
Nearby Attractions: Temple of Heaven
Useful Advice: A good optional activity for you who have more free evenings in Beijing
Beijing Opera is the quintessence of Chinese culture which combines literature, music, dance, vocal performance, fine arts, acrobatics and many other arts. Travelers could enjoy charming Beijing Opera in Liyuan Theater in the evening. The repertoire of Liyuan is an interesting combination of delightful humor and old Beijing culture. You could enjoy the four parts Beijing Opera repertoires - “Farewell My Concubine”, “The Crossroads”, “A Bird in Cage” and “Drunken Beauty”. By enjoying the repertoires, you could have better understanding about the four main types of performers, Chinese literature, music and art.
In Xian
Option One: Dumpling Dinner & Tang Palace Dance Show
Dinner Time: around 18:30 -19:50
Show Time: around 20:00 – 21:00
There are three options for you: enjoy Dumpling Dinner and Tang Palace Dance Show together, only Dumpling Dinner, only Tang Palace Dance Show. If you want to do both, you’ll enjoy the Chinese traditional dumpling banquet first and then the fabulous Tang Palace dance and music. During the dinner, travelers could taste many combinations of dumplings, all shapes, sizes and flavors. While, the Tang Palace Dance Show take you to a magical journey through the ancient and prosperous Tang Dynasty (618-907). Enjoy the story told through impressive acting, dance and singing, traditional orchestra. It will be an amazing evening for your life in Xian.
Option Two: Cycling on Xian Ancient City Wall
Time: about 2 hours
Length: 13.7 km
Bike Rent: You can rent a bike near South Gate City Wall
Useful Advice: You could choose to ride part of the wall instead of whole circle.
Xian Ancient City Wall stands 12 meters tall and 12-14 meters wide at the top. It is quiet suitable for riding a bike on the wall which covers a length of 13.7 km. Start from South Gate City Wall and ride and pass East Gate, North Gate and West Gate and 98 ramparts and more. Moreover, along the riding, you’ll experience the local customs of the street market, see the historical relics and have a look at the modern side of Xian.
In Shanghai
Option One: Shanghai Acrobatic Show
Place: Several world class theaters are offered. You could use the one based on your likes.
Show Time: 19:30 - 21:00
Watching acrobatic in Shanghai is a magic experience for an exciting out in Shanghai. It is performed by the main troupes - Shanghai Acrobatic Troupe or Shanghai Circus World. Travelers could watch world famous Shanghai Acrobatic Troupe performs programs like Hula Hoops, Squeezing through the Barrel, Juggling Benches, Balancing on the Chair, Pagoda of Benches, Bicycle Skill, Play Diabolo, Kicking Bowls on the Bicycle, etc. Also, enjoy the famous “Ball of Death” with fast action and fun. If you like, you could choose to watch “Era - Intersection of Time” with many highlights presented.
Option Two: Experience High-tech Maglev Train
Route: Shanghai Pudong International Airport - Shanghai Longyang Road Station
Operation Time: Longyang Road Station: First Train: 06:45; Last Train: 21:40. Pudong Internation Airport Station: First Train: 07:02; Last Train: 21:42.
Useful Advice: Make sure you’ll arrive at Pudong Airport and arrival time is able to take it.
If you arrive in Shanghai at Pudong International Airport, taking a high-tech maglev train to Pudong New Area will be awesome experience for your first stop in Shanghai. Also, you could transfer from downtown to the airport. It is available from 06:45 to 21:42, with services every 15 to 20 minutes. The 30 km journey just takes 7 minutes and 20 seconds. You could imagine how fast it is.
Option Three: Cruise on Huangpu River
Available Cruising: in the daytime & at night
Duration: about 45 minutes
Useful Advice: Cruise ships vary in size, decoration and amenities. Choose the one which best suits for your time.
Huangpu River is a silent eyewitness to Shanghai’s history and development. Taking a cruise on Huangpu River will let you witness modern side of Shanghai and feel the old Shanghai culture. The cruise ships usually depart from the wharf close to the Bund. After board on the ship, you’ll view many spectacular sights both on the west and east bank along Huangpu River. Along west bank, see The Bund, Monument to the People’s Heroes, Waibaidu Bridge, etc. Along the east bank, view Shanghai Oriental Pearl TV Tower, Jinmao Tower, Lujiazui Financial Zone, etc.
In Chengdu
Option: Sichuan Opera
Place: Shufengyayun Opera House
Show Time: 20:00 – 21:30
Useful Advice: Pay a relaxing visit to Qingtai Road, Chengdu Culture Park.
Sichuan opera, with 1700 years history, is the famous traditional Chinese operas. The typical stunts include “Faces Changing”, “Fire Spitting”, “Rolling Lamp”, “Folk Music”, “Hand Shadow” and “Puppet Opera”, etc. Shufengyayun Opera House is the great place to enjoy Sichuan Opera while sipping the local tea. There are many programs offered including the classic stunts which will make you have great fun in this traditional opera house.
Travel Tips for Traveling China
Beijing Great Wall Hiking Tips
You need to pack some personal gears, such as light and comfortable walking shoes, outdoor coat
and pants.
You'd better also pack sun cream, sun glasses.
Tibet Travel Tips
1. A valid passport, a valid China visa and Tibet Permits are necessary documents for traveling
in Tibet.
2. In Tibet, we suggest you avoid strong activity; do not take shower at the first day; drink
more water
and avoid of alcohol; better not to take oxygen if your AMS symptoms are mild. Always remember
that
if you have any problems or feel uncomfortable, please tell your guide immediately or contact
our
travel consultant.
3. A windbreaker, a pair of durable and comfortable shoes, a down jacket (better with hat),
sunscreen
cream, sun block, skin cream and lip balm, sunglasses, medicine for urgent use.
Panda Volunteer in Chengdu
Chengdu Research Base of Panda Breeding is only available to see giant pandas. If you are interested in
giant panda volunteer experience, please extend to Dujiangyan Panda Base, Wolong Shenshuping
Panda
Base or Ya'an Bifengxia Panda Base instead.
High Speed Train Experience
Taking high speed train to travel around China will be unique and special experience for you.
Instead
of taking flight, you can take high speed train from Beijing to Xian/Xian to Beijing, Chengdu
to
Chongqing, Yichang to Shanghai/Shanghai to Yichang, etc. All are within comfortable traveling
time
to reach the destinations. If you are interested, please feel free to ask our travel
consultants
to arrange high speed train for you.
Practical Info about Traveling with Us
Restaurant & Food
Vegetarian food Requirement
Vegetarian food in Chinese cuisine culture is usually divided into 3 categories: the Monastery
Vegetarian
Food, the Court Vegetarian Food and the Folk Vegetarian Food. And the main ingredients are:
soybean,
taro powder, mushrooms, fresh vegetables and tofu (bean curd). It will be easier to find the
vegetarian
restaurants in big cities of china, such as: Beijing, Shanghai, Xian, HK, etc.
If allergic to some food
We suggest you to list any food or ingredients that you are allergic to and let our travel
consultant
know. Then your travel consultant will mark them in the guide’s itinerary, so that our guides
in
different cities can make some preparations and arrangements in advance.
Do our guide and driver join the meal with us?
The tour guides and driver will be at the same restaurants with you, but they will only join the
meal
when you invite. Sometimes the drivers are shy to join as they usually eat fast and could not
understand
English talk around the table, so the guide will be with you more often.
Will we be able to try some local foods during our visit?
Yes, you will. There will be some meals excluded in your itinerary as you like, and your private
guide
will be delighted to give you some suggestions and take you to the local restaurants, if you
are
interested in local food tasting. But remember, some local snacks may not match your stomach,
so
ask your guided for more information before eating.
Shopping
What to buy in China?
In China, there are myriads of souvenirs for visitors, and each city has its own specialty.
Some of the best buys are:
Beijing: Cloisonné; Fresh water pearls
Xi'an: Replicas of the Terra Cotta soldiers; Tangsancai (Tang Dynasty hand
painted China);
Antique Furniture
Shanghai: Silk carpets
Hangzhou: Longjing Tea; Silk
Suzhou: Silk
Guilin: Scroll paintings; China Southern Sea Pearls
Yunnan: Mounted Butterflies; Pure tea; Dali Batik (tie-dyed fabric)
Xinjiang: Carpets; jade articles
Tibet: Thang-ka(tanka)(Sheep skin wall hangings)
How to bargain?
Bargains are not acceptable in big supermarkets and department stores. But in some night markets
or tourist
shops, you can bargain for a lower price, since the vendors always ask for very high price for
a
certain item. You’d better ask the opinion of the guide first, and then the guide will tell you
the
real value and quality of the item. Please note that when the bargain is processing, the guide
will
be hesitate to help as it may annoy the bosses. Just try to let the guides know you will
bargain
in advance.
What to do with persistent vendors?
If you do not need something from them, just do not ask for price. Some of the venders are very
persisted,
and if they keep selling things to you, you can simply say “No, thanks.” (Chinese
pronunciation:
”Bu, XieXie”). If they do not give up, you just keep silence. Silence is sometimes useful to
handle
this situation.
More Tips for free-time shopping
1. If you think you have no desire or interest, you do not feel embarrassed to let our
guide know
DIRECTLY (since some of our guides are enthusiastic in taking you shopping)
2. Better to choose the shops run by the state when buying expensive articles.
3. Do not shop everything in one city, because every place has its unique local products
which worth
buying.
4. Do not feel obligate to buy anything only because the shop attendants are very kind to
you.
5. Be smart consumers. Do not spend big money on things you are not familiar with. Do ask
for shop
guarantee, contacts and certificates when purchasing big items like antiques, jade, arts
pieces.
6. Leave plenty of time for transactions. When you see something you like - buy it.
Usually, you
would not find it elsewhere and you would not have time to go back.
7. Always verify the date of antiques before you purchase them. Antiques dated before 1795
cannot
legally be exported.
8. Articles made from rare wild animals are contraband and will be confiscated by customs
without
compensation.
Private tour & Group Tour
A: Private tours
1. Private guide, driver and vehicle are for your exclusive use; no matter you are
individually,
or in a family or friends group. The tour is run exclusively for you without strangers.
2. Every itinerary can be customized to meet your specific interests/ wishes, that is, you
can choose
your favored hotels, sightseeing spots, the tour length, means of transportation, budget,
etc.
All are free of charge.
3. Start the tour on any date you want.
4. Escort you through the whole tour. All private transfers during the tour are offered,
including
airport/train station transfer, hotel-attractions round trip transfer.
5. The sightseeing during the tour could be based on your own timetable and pace. Flexible
to change
at your short notice.
6. Ideal for people who need considerate care and assistance, such as elderly, the
disabled, families
with small children.
B: Group tours
1. Low Price;
2. Share a guide and driver;
3. Share a clean, safe and air-conditioned vehicle;
4. Good chance for you to meet and make friends from all over the world;
5. Tour date is fixed and unchangeable.
Emergency calls
Call your guide, or if you can’t find your guide, call your travel consultant or our office
immediately.
All the phone numbers include in our confirmation letter. Keep the letter with your during your
trip.
Note: As our Beijing office is using the different guide arranging system, so
we will not
be able to provide the Beijing guide information until the day before you arrival, but once we
have
it, we will email you immediately.
How Our Teams Serve you at China Discovery
"Highest Standards of Quality and Honesty" is the core value of each specialized team at
China Discovery.
Eveyone in our company is working hard for only one goal, which is to ensure the highest level of service,
luxury, and attention to detail from the minute you begin planning your trip, to the day you return
home.
1-on-1 Travel Consultant
Our travel consultants are professional, experienced and responsible, helping you from the
very beginning to the end of your China trip!
After sending us an inquiry, one of our travel consultants will get back to you within 0.5~23.5
hrs. In the next few days, he/she will be working closely with you to formulate a customized
tour plan, as well as providing professional suggestions based on your travel interests,
time, and budget.
Beside, he/she will keep in contact with you during your entire tour in China, continually checking
if everything is going well as planned.
We're working at Chengdu Bamboo International Tours, local based in Chengdu.
Local Tour Guides
Our local guide in every destination is not only very friendly, enthusiastic but also very
informative and knowledgeable.
Once you arrive in the destination, the patient and punctual guides will pick you up and take
you to get under skin of the city at your own pace. By in-depth discovery and explanation,
they’ll show you more about the history, culture, customs and authentic local life. Throughout
the journey, they're not only expert guides who take care of all the details but also fellow
travelers who are dedicated to help you explore in comfort and style.
Our guides are passionate about what they do, and it shows all the way!
Local Drivers & Vehicle
Using our private transfer service makes you comfortable, relaxed and worry free all the
way!
Our private service includes licensed drivers with many years’ driving experience and air-conditioned,
non-smoking, clean and well-maintained cars/vans. Drivers are local, polite, friendly and
helpful, taking you to your tourist sites, hotels, airport/train stations in safety. All
kinds of vehicle are offered, and yours depends on the size of your group. Usually, we offer
sedan cars, SUVs, business vans (MPV) and different types of buses, all with extra space
for your luggage.
Our private transfer service guarantees you the highest comfort!
Comfortable & Homelike Hotels
In each destination, you’ll enjoy a comfortable stay in a great location!
The hotels we choose are based on star rating, great locations, well-equipped facilities, cozy
bed, high quality service and guests’ feedbacks. Choices are a lot ranging from luxury 5
star, comfortable 4 star to budget 3 star. You could decide where to stay to best suit for
your budget and likes. Generally, the hotels have both Western and Chinese breakfast with
a wide choices.
If you have already got an ideal hotel, please feel free to tell our travel consultants and they'll
book the hotel for you.
Have good sleep in our well-selected hotels in all the destinations of China.
Meals & Dining
We can satisfy all the dietary requirements no matter you want Chinese local food, western
food, vegetarian food or muslin food.
The restaurants we will take you for lunch or dinner are all designated tourist restaurants approved
by local tourist administration bureau. They have very good sanitary conditions and the food
is prepared fresh and clean.
There will be some meals excluded in your itinerary as you like, and your private guide will
be delighted to give you some suggestions and take you to the local restaurants to taste
like Beijing Roast Duck, Xian Dumpling Dinner, Sichuan Hotpot, etc., if you are interested
in local food tasting.
All the dining options will satisfy your stomach!
Customize your own China Tour
We are here to help you design your own travel experience in China which suits your
specific needs
best. Tailor make now!
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