Cultural tour: local guide
11 nights,
hotel-to-hotel
22 meals
included
City extension
Experience the rich tapestry of China on this guided 12 day tour from Beijing to Shanghai, where ancient heritage, vibrant culture and breathtaking landscapes converge to create a journey unlike any other. In Beijing, the grandeur of Tiananmen Square, the Forbidden City and the Temple of Heaven reflect centuries of imperial power, while the Great Wall at Mutianyu winds dramatically across rolling hills, offering sweeping vistas of the countryside. Meandering through atmospheric hutongs and tranquil gardens, including the UNESCO listed Summer Palace, reveals the rhythms of traditional life amidst the capital's modern energy.
In Xi'an, the Terracotta Warriors stand as silent sentinels of the past, their intricate faces and formation a testament to the artistry and ambition of China's emperors. Nearby, the soaring Big Wild Goose Pagoda evokes the spiritual journeys of Tang dynasty pilgrims while in Chengdu, culture and nature intertwine; leafy parks, historic lanes and fragrant tea houses invite quiet reflection, while encounters with giant pandas in a conservation sanctuary showcase the country's beloved wildlife.
The Yangtze River carves its way through some of China's most dramatic natural scenery with towering cliffs, mist shrouded peaks and serene tributaries, complemented by ancient temples, forested trails and small villages along its banks. The journey concludes in Shanghai, where the serene Yu Garden contrasts with the vibrant bustle of Nanjing Road, the historic charm of the Former French Concession and the soaring cityscape visible from Shanghai Tower.
From majestic history and spiritual heritage to awe inspiring landscapes and modern vitality, this journey through China immerses you in a land of contrasts, where past and present intertwine, leaving an enduring impression long after the adventure ends.
Arrive into Beijing Airport where you will be met by your guide who will transfer you to Beijing (approximately 1 hour drive). After check in at the hotel, you have the rest of the day to relax.
You stay at Howard Johnson Paragon Hotel.
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Tea/coffee
Located in Beijing’s Dongcheng District, Howard Johnson by Wyndham Paragon Hotel Beijing offers modern comfort with stylish rooms, free WiFi and great dining options. Close to Wangfujing, Tiananmen Square, and the Forbidden City, it features a gym and a sauna.
Explore the heart of Beijing with your guide with visits to its iconic landmarks. Tiananmen Square, one of the world's largest city squares, is home to the Monument to the People's Heroes, the Great Hall of the People, the National Museum of China and Mao Zedong's Mausoleum. To the north, the Forbidden City served as the imperial palace for 24 emperors from the Ming to Qing dynasties. Built between 1406 and 1420, its 980 buildings across 72 hectares exemplify traditional Chinese architecture and UNESCO recognised heritage. Nearby, the Temple of Heaven showcases exquisite design and was where emperors once prayed for the nation's prosperity. Together, these sites offer a captivating glimpse into China's rich history and culture.
Dinner included.
You stay at Howard Johnson Paragon Hotel.
HairdryerWiFiTVMinibarAirconSafeTea/coffee
Located in Beijing’s Dongcheng District, Howard Johnson by Wyndham Paragon Hotel Beijing offers modern comfort with stylish rooms, free WiFi and great dining options. Close to Wangfujing, Tiananmen Square, and the Forbidden City, it features a gym and a sauna.
Start the day with a drive north of Beijing (approx. 1.5 hours) to the Mutianyu Great Wall, one of the best preserved sections of the iconic structure. Originally built in the 6th century AD and expanded in the 14th century, this strategic pass was used to defend against northern invaders. Wander along its ramparts and take in stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. Return to the city to explore Hutongs, the historic alleyways lined with traditional courtyard homes. Dating from the Yuan dynasty and expanded under the Ming and Qing dynasties, Hutongs offer a glimpse into everyday Beijing life, showcasing grassroots culture, local traditions and centuries of urban history in contrast to the grandeur of the Forbidden City and imperial palaces.
Lunch included.
You stay at Howard Johnson Paragon Hotel.
HairdryerWiFiTVMinibarAirconSafeTea/coffee
Located in Beijing’s Dongcheng District, Howard Johnson by Wyndham Paragon Hotel Beijing offers modern comfort with stylish rooms, free WiFi and great dining options. Close to Wangfujing, Tiananmen Square, and the Forbidden City, it features a gym and a sauna.
After breakfast, visit the Summer Palace, a stunning imperial garden from the Qing dynasty. Dominated by Longevity Hill and Kunming Lake, the palace spans 2.9 sq km, three quarters of which is water. The Summer Palace combines natural beauty with architectural elegance, featuring pavilions, halls, temples, bridges and ornate palaces set amid hills and lakes. Recognised by UNESCO, it is celebrated as a masterpiece of Chinese landscape garden design, harmoniously blending nature and human artistry.
In the afternoon, board a high speed train to Xi'an, continuing your journey through China's rich history and culture. We meet you at the station and take you to your hotel in Xian.
You stay at Grand Noble Hotel.
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Grand Noble Hotel Xi’an offers elegant comfort in the heart of the city, close to the Bell Tower and Muslim Quarter. Combining modern style with warm hospitality, it provides a relaxing base for exploring Xi’an’s ancient charm, ideal for people seeking convenience, quality and a welcoming atmosphere.
First stop today is the Terracotta Warriors and Horses Museum (approximately 50 minutes drive), one of the 20th century's most remarkable archaeological discoveries. Dating back to 210-209 BCE, these life sized figures were buried with Qin Shi Huang, China's first emperor, to protect him in the afterlife. The army includes over 8,000 soldiers, 130 chariots, and 670 horses across three pits, alongside non military figures like acrobats and musicians.
In the afternoon, visit Big Wild Goose Pagoda Park, home to a Tang dynasty pagoda built in 652 and rebuilt in 704 under Empress Wu Zetian. The pagoda once housed Buddhist sutras and figurines brought from India by the monk Xuanzang, with interiors featuring intricate Buddha carvings by the famed artist Yan Liben.
Lunch included.
You stay at Grand Noble Hotel.
HairdryerWiFiTVMinibarAirconTea/coffee
Grand Noble Hotel Xi’an offers elegant comfort in the heart of the city, close to the Bell Tower and Muslim Quarter. Combining modern style with warm hospitality, it provides a relaxing base for exploring Xi’an’s ancient charm, ideal for people seeking convenience, quality and a welcoming atmosphere.
Travel by high speed train to Chengdu this morning, then head to Chengdu People's Park, the city's most popular green space, where locals gather to socialise, practice tai chi and sip tea at traditional tea houses. Enjoy the leisurely atmosphere and immerse yourself in everyday Chengdu life.
Later, explore Kuanzhai Alley, a preserved Qing Dynasty street complex showcasing Chengdu's rich folk culture. Wander through the historic lanes, discover traditional architecture, boutique shops and local eateries, gaining a vivid insight into the city's heritage.
Lunch included.
You stay at Xizang Hotel.
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Xizang Hotel Chengdu offers a serene blend of Tibetan culture and modern comfort in the heart of the city. Its warm design, attentive service, and peaceful atmosphere make it an excellent stay for travellers exploring Chengdu’s vibrant sights and rich heritage.
Today you enjoy a visit to the Giant Panda Breeding Research Base in Chengdu, one of China's top wildlife conservation centres. Located just outside the city, the base is home to more than 40 giant pandas, along with red pandas and black necked cranes. Walk through bamboo shaded paths, observe pandas at play or feeding and learn about breeding programmes that help protect these endangered species.
In the afternoon, arrive in Chongqing and board your cruise ship to begin an unforgettable journey along the Yangtze River.
Lunch included.
You stay at Victoria Cruises.
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Victoria Cruises Yangtze River offers luxury river voyages combining comfort, elegance, and Chinese cultural experiences. With modern cabins, private balconies, fine dining, and scenic shore excursions, the fleet showcases the Three Gorges’ beauty, it provides a relaxing and immersive way to explore China’s iconic river landscapes.
Wake up to the gentle flow of the Yangtze as you enjoy breakfast on board your cruise. This morning, disembark for a shore excursion to Mountain Shuanggui, near Fengdu. Known for its cultural significance and natural beauty, the mountain is home to historic temples, elegant pavilions and peaceful pathways shaded by ancient trees. As you explore, admire the blend of traditional architecture and tranquil landscapes while taking in sweeping views of the river below.
Lunch and dinner included.
You stay at Victoria Cruises.
ShopsHairdryerWiFiTVAircon
Victoria Cruises Yangtze River offers luxury river voyages combining comfort, elegance, and Chinese cultural experiences. With modern cabins, private balconies, fine dining, and scenic shore excursions, the fleet showcases the Three Gorges’ beauty, it provides a relaxing and immersive way to explore China’s iconic river landscapes.
Sail into the legendary Three Gorges, one of nature's most breathtaking masterpieces. Begin with Qutang Gorge, the shortest yet most dramatic, where sheer cliffs rise above the river's narrow channel. Continue into the Wu Gorge, famed for its misty peaks and serene, forested slopes. At midday, transfer to a smaller vessel for an unforgettable journey through the pristine Goddess Stream, with towering cliffs and crystal waters. (In certain conditions, the excursion may visit the Shennong Stream instead.) Return to your cruise to enter the majestic Xiling Gorge, the longest and deepest of the Three Gorges, offering spectacular vistas to end the day.
Lunch and dinner included.
You stay at Victoria Cruises.
ShopsHairdryerWiFiTVAircon
Victoria Cruises Yangtze River offers luxury river voyages combining comfort, elegance, and Chinese cultural experiences. With modern cabins, private balconies, fine dining, and scenic shore excursions, the fleet showcases the Three Gorges’ beauty, it provides a relaxing and immersive way to explore China’s iconic river landscapes.
Disembark this morning for a visit to the Three Gorges Dam, the world's largest hydroelectric power station, located in Xiling Gorge. This monumental project spans the Yangtze River and plays a vital role in flood control, navigation and energy production. From the observation platforms, take in sweeping views of the dam, reservoir and surrounding landscapes. After the tour, your cruise concludes in Yichang. Meet your guide for your transfer from the pier to the train, then on arrival in Shanghai, we take you to your hotel.
Lunch included.
You stay at SSAW Boutique Hotel.
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SSAW Boutique Hotel Shanghai Bund offers modern comfort in the heart of Huangpu District, steps from The Bund, Yu Garden, and Nanjing Road. With stylish rooms, rooftop views, diverse dining, and a fitness centre, it provides a convenient and welcoming base for travellers exploring Shanghai’s vibrant culture and attractions.
Start your day exploring Shanghai's historic and cultural highlights with your local guide. Visit the tranquil Yu Garden, a classical Ming era garden with pavilions, ponds and iconic dragon walls. Stroll along the Bund, famous for its colonial architecture and stunning views across the Huangpu River to Pudong's modern skyline. Continue to lively Nanjing Road, Shanghai's main shopping street, before discovering the Former French Concession, where tree lined avenues, Tudor mansions and trendy districts like Xintiandi and Tian Zi Fang showcase the city's cosmopolitan charm.
In the afternoon, ascend the Shanghai Tower, China's tallest building and the world's second tallest. From its 546m high observation deck, enjoy sweeping panoramic views of this dynamic metropolis.
Lunch included.
You stay at SSAW Boutique Hotel.
HairdryerWiFiTVMinibarAirconTea/coffee
SSAW Boutique Hotel Shanghai Bund offers modern comfort in the heart of Huangpu District, steps from The Bund, Yu Garden, and Nanjing Road. With stylish rooms, rooftop views, diverse dining, and a fitness centre, it provides a convenient and welcoming base for travellers exploring Shanghai’s vibrant culture and attractions.
We take you to Shanghai airport (approximately 30 minutes) for your flight home.
These tour prices are per person, based on two people sharing.
Single supplement from $1110.
Call now to speak to our specialist team at 0044 1606 720199 or email us at sales@headwater.com for enquiries or to book your trip.
Cultural tour: local guide
11 nights,
hotel-to-hotel
22 meals
included
City extension
