10-Day Private Tour From Beijing To Xi’an, Guilin, Yangshuo And Shanghai

A practical, immersive journey through China’s most iconic destinations — from Beijing’s historic sites to Shanghai’s modern skyline. This 10-day private tour offers a balanced blend of culture, scenic landscapes, and local insights. What we love most is the intimate setting, with just your group and a knowledgeable guide, making the experience both personal and flexible. A potential consideration is that hotel accommodations are not included, so travelers need to arrange their own stays. This tour suits travelers eager to see a broad spectrum of China’s highlights without feeling rushed, appreciating authentic experiences with local guides, and valuing well-organized logistics.

Key Points

• Private, personalized experience: Only your party and a guide/driver, enhancing intimacy and flexibility.
• Comprehensive itinerary: Covers Beijing’s historic sites, Xi’an’s Terracotta Warriors, Guilin’s stunning river scenery, and Shanghai’s modern attractions.
• Inclusion of essential tickets and transport: Entrance fees for key sights, bullet train from Beijing to Xi’an, and flights between major cities are included, adding value.
• Authentic local insights: Guided by English and Chinese speakers, with options to explore local markets, temples, and cultural sites.
• Meals included: Lunch and some dinners, giving you a taste of regional cuisine.
• Leisure time variability: Some days include free time, offering space for personal exploration.

A Detailed Look at the 10-Day China Adventure

This tour is designed to give you a rapid, yet meaningful, cross-section of China’s diverse landscape and history. From bustling Beijing to the tranquil waters of Guilin, and finally to the vibrant streets of Shanghai, you’ll get a curated taste of the country’s most visited destinations. What makes this tour stand out is its focus on authentic guided experiences combined with scenic highlights, all while maintaining a comfortable pace.

Beijing: The Heart of China’s Imperial Heritage

Starting at Beijing Capital International Airport, your journey begins with a warm meet-and-greet from your English-speaking guide. The evening’s optional activity — watching an Acrobatics or Kung Fu show — is a perfect introduction to Chinese culture, though note that this is at your own expense.

The next days are packed with iconic sights. The Forbidden City, a sprawling palace complex, is a highlight. Guides typically are well-versed, sharing stories that make the massive site come alive, and the included tickets mean you avoid lines. Expect to spend around two hours exploring the imperial halls and hidden courtyards while learning about emperors and dynasties. Afterwards, visiting the Summer Palace and Temple of Heaven offers a glimpse into imperial leisure life and spiritual traditions. We appreciate that both entrance tickets are included, saving time and money.

The highlight of Beijing’s sightseeing is undoubtedly the Mutianyu Great Wall. The 2-hour hike along this less crowded section yields sweeping views and an opportunity to stretch your legs after days of sightseeing. The optional cable car or toboggan ride can add fun, but if you prefer a quieter experience, the walking paths are scenic enough. Afterward, a traditional Chinese lunch at a jade gallery provides insight into local craftsmanship and cuisine. The tour also includes a quick outside look at the Beijing National Stadium — a striking piece of modern architecture from the 2008 Olympics.

A unique feature of these Beijing days is the Hutongs tour in the Gulou area, exploring old alleys and traditional courtyard homes, giving you a taste of local life. This part of the tour is a favorite for those wanting a more intimate connection to the city’s authentic neighborhoods.

Transition to Xi’an: From Imperial Capital to Ancient City

Traveling by high-speed train (second class), you’ll switch from Beijing’s modern fast-paced environment to Xi’an’s ancient charm. The train ride, lasting about 4.5 hours, offers a glimpse of China’s urban and rural landscapes. The tour includes the necessary ticket, and the transfer organized by your guide ensures seamless travel.

In Xi’an, a visit to the Emperor Qinshihuang’s Mausoleum and the Terracotta Warriors is a must. The guide usually provides detailed commentary on the history of this archaeological marvel, which is often described as a highlight by past travelers. After marveling at thousands of life-sized clay soldiers, you’ll walk along the Ancient City Wall, a rare opportunity to appreciate the city’s medieval fortifications.

The Muslim Quarter in Xi’an offers a flavorful immersion into Islamic culture within China, with bustling markets and the iconic Great Mosque. This stop is perfect for those eager to explore local markets and sample regional snacks. The inclusion of tickets simplifies logistics, allowing you to focus on the experience.

Guilin and Yangshuo: The Scenic Heart of Southern China

Flying from Xi’an to Guilin, you’ll arrive in a landscape famous for its karst limestone formations and lush river scenery. The afternoon at leisure in Guilin lets travelers settle in before the next day’s main event—the Li River cruise. We loved the boat ride, which offers panoramic views of the iconic peaks and rural scenery. The small-group boat ensures a relaxed environment for photography and enjoying the scenery, with a delicious lunch served onboard.

Arriving in Yangshuo, you get the chance to wander West Street, a lively hub of cafes, shops, and local vendors. Here, you can absorb the relaxed vibe and perhaps indulge in some local street snacks.

In the morning, the Reed Flute Cave impresses with its limestone stalactites and stalagmites illuminated in colorful lights, creating a surreal landscape. Later, a visit to Elephant Trunk Hill provides a photo-worthy backdrop of a natural rock formation resembling an elephant drinking from the river.

Shanghai: The Perfect Mix of Modern and Traditional

Returning to Guilin for a flight to Shanghai, you’ll arrive in a city where history and innovation collide. The Shanghai Museum offers insights into Chinese art, ceramics, and calligraphy, while the Jade Buddha Temple adds a spiritual touch. The Yuyuan Garden completes the day with its classical Chinese design, tranquil ponds, and intricate pavilions.

Finally, a morning stroll along The Bund showcases Shanghai’s impressive skyline, with historic colonial buildings overlooking the modern skyscrapers. This spot encapsulates the city’s transformation from old to new.

Transportation and Logistics: Making Travel Smooth

This tour’s inclusion of bullet train travel from Beijing to Xi’an and flights between cities saves time and reduces fatigue, allowing you to maximize sightseeing. The private air-conditioned vehicle ensures comfort and flexibility, especially in busy cities where traffic can be unpredictable.

You’ll appreciate the timing and organization — most days start around 8:00 am, with some free periods built in for personal exploration. The tour’s schedule is packed but designed to prevent burnout, with carefully planned travel and visit durations.

Food and Accommodation Considerations

While hotel stays are not included, the tour provides meal options—lunch and some dinners—highlighting regional flavors. Past travelers have enjoyed the variety, noting especially the delicious local dishes served during the tour. Bottled water is provided, which is essential in a climate that can be hot or humid.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for history buffs, cultural explorers, and scenic lovers. It’s perfect if you want a guided, culturally rich adventure with a touch of leisure time. The private format suits travelers who prefer an intimate, flexible itinerary without the rigid schedules of larger group tours.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour for You?

If you’re looking for a well-organized, culturally immersive experience that hits all the major highlights of China in a relatively short time, this tour offers excellent value. The inclusion of tickets, transport, and guides means fewer surprises and more focus on enjoying each site.

Travelers who appreciate local guides that share insights and stories, combined with scenic landscapes and historic landmarks, will find this tour rewarding. The combination of famous sites and authentic local experiences makes it a well-rounded choice.

However, if you prefer luxury hotel stays or more free time to explore independently, you may want to consider arranging accommodations separately. Also, those seeking a very leisurely pace might find the packed schedule a bit demanding, but for most, it strikes a good balance.

This 10-day private tour offers a rich, authentic, and efficiently curated way to see China’s top destinations, tailored for travelers eager to absorb the country’s diversity without feeling overwhelmed.

FAQ

Are hotel accommodations included in this tour?
No, hotel stays are not included. Travelers need to arrange their own accommodations at each destination.

Does the tour include airport transfers?
Yes, guides will meet you at the airport on arrival in Beijing and at the airport on departure from Shanghai.

Are entrance tickets to sites included?
Yes, tickets for key attractions like the Forbidden City, Summer Palace, Mutianyu Great Wall, Terracotta Warriors, Reed Flute Cave, and others are included.

Is transportation between cities covered?
Yes, transport by private vehicle within cities, the bullet train from Beijing to Xi’an, and flights between Xi’an, Guilin, and Shanghai are all included.

What meals are provided?
Breakfasts are typically included daily, along with lunches and some dinners as specified in the itinerary. Local cuisine is a highlight.

Are guides available in English and Chinese?
Yes, experienced guides speak both English and Chinese, enriching the experience with local insights and stories.

How flexible is the schedule?
Most days start early around 8:00 am, with some free time built in. The itinerary is well-structured but allows for some personal exploration.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but those with mobility issues should consider the walking involved at sites like the Great Wall and city tours.

What should I bring?
Comfortable walking shoes, a hat, sunscreen, a camera, and any personal essentials for day trips.

How do I cancel if needed?
You can cancel up to 6 days in advance for a full refund. Cancellations less than that are subject to partial or no refunds.

This 10-day tour provides a fantastic snapshot of China’s diverse culture, stunning landscapes, and historic marvels—all with the convenience of private guides and organized transport. Perfect for travelers eager to see the highlights with expert insights and authentic experiences, it’s an adventure that balances history, scenery, and local flavor.