11-Day Private Tour to Beijing,Datong,Pingyao,Xi’an,Luoyang and Chengdu

Traveling through China can be a whirlwind of history, culture, and natural beauty — and this 11-day private tour manages to hit many of the most iconic sights without feeling rushed. From the grandeur of Beijing’s Forbidden City to the ancient allure of Pingyao, the awe-inspiring Terracotta Warriors, and the adorable pandas in Chengdu, this itinerary offers a comprehensive look at what makes China so captivating. You’ll travel in comfort with private guides and transportation, making this a convenient way to see major landmarks while having plenty of authentic experiences along the way.

What we love most about this tour is its seamless blend of top-tier sights and local flavor. The inclusion of local food stops, traditional markets, and family visits really help bring the destinations to life. Plus, the flexibility of private guides means your experience can be tailored to your interests — whether that’s historical insights or photo opportunities. On the flip side, with such packed days, you’ll want to be prepared for some long hours on the move, especially with transfers between cities.

This tour is well-suited for travelers who want a well-rounded introduction to China’s highlights, appreciate culture, and prefer the comfort of private transport and guides. If you’re eager for a deep dive into history, stunning vistas, and local dining, this experience offers solid value for the price — especially considering the included train tickets and entrance fees. Just be ready for some busy days and a fair amount of walking.

Key Points

Comfort and convenience: Private guides and transportation make exploring hassle-free.
Authentic experiences: Cultural visits and local food stops add depth.
History and sights: Major landmarks like the Forbidden City, Great Wall, and Terracotta Warriors are well covered.
Variety: The tour combines city sights, historical sites, natural beauty, and modern culture.
Value for money: The overall cost includes many entrance fees, train tickets, and guided services.
Long days: Expect a full itinerary with some early mornings and lengthy transfers.

A Deep Dive into the Itinerary

Day 1-2: Beijing — The Heart of China’s Imperial Past

Starting in Beijing, the tour kicks off with a visit to Tiananmen Square, an expansive space that’s served as the stage for countless historic moments. You’ll snap photos of iconic landmarks like the Monument to the People’s Heroes and the Chairman Mao Memorial Hall. Walking across the square, it’s easy to imagine the centuries of history that have unfolded here.

Crossing Tiananmen Tower, you’ll step into the Forbidden City, where 24 emperors from the Ming and Qing dynasties once ruled. This enormous complex, with its intricate wooden architecture and countless treasures, is a highlight that truly lives up to its reputation. The tour guides are well-versed, sharing stories behind the stunning artifacts and architecture, which makes wandering through the Palace Museum a fascinating experience. Expect to spend around two hours here, with plenty of space for photos and questions.

Next up, there’s a visit to the Mutianyu Great Wall, famous for its well-preserved structure and scenic views. The electric car ride and chairlift up are smooth, and the wall itself offers an excellent hike with fewer crowds than some other sections. The toboggan ride down adds a touch of fun and adventure, making it a memorable part of your day.

On Day 2, the focus shifts to cultural and spiritual sites — the Temple of Heaven, where emperors once prayed for bountiful harvests, and the Lama Temple, a vibrant Buddhist complex blending Han, Tibetan, Mongol, and Manchu influences. A stroll through the Back Lakes (Hou Hai) and nearby Hutongs adds a slice of local life. You’ll see residents practicing Tai Chi, enjoy local eateries, and get a glimpse of traditional Beijing living.

Day 3-4: Datong and Pingyao — Journey into Ancient China

Traveling from Beijing to Datong by high-speed train (about 2.5 hours), you’ll be greeted by your guide to explore the Hanging Monastery. Perched dramatically on a cliffside, this temple’s precarious position makes it a must-see. Walking along its hanging walkways, you can’t help but marvel at the engineering and spiritual craftsmanship behind it.

Next, the Yungang Grottoes showcase over 59,000 Buddha statues carved into the cliffs during the Northern Wei Dynasty. The artistry and scale are impressive, and your guide’s insights help decode the significance of the sculptures and their historical context.

In Pingyao, a UNESCO-listed ancient town, the City Wall offers sweeping views of traditional architecture and narrow alleys that seem frozen in time. Walking on the wall provides perspective on the town’s strategic importance historically. The Ming and Qing Streets, lined with old shops and cafes, give you authentic glimpses into traditional life and crafts. Visiting the Pingyao Ancient Government Office and the Rishengchang Bank—the first modern bank in China—adds a fascinating financial history layer.

Day 5-6: Xi’an — Capital of Dynasties and Terracotta Army Marvel

Traveling from Pingyao to Xi’an (about 3.5 hours by train), you’ll dive into the city’s imperial history. The Terracotta Warriors, discovered in 1974, are the star attraction. Over 8,000 life-sized soldiers, horses, and chariots are arranged in battle formations inside the museum. Guides like Mr. Li are praised for their enthusiasm and storytelling skills, making the history come alive.

The Small Wild Goose Pagoda offers a quieter Buddhist atmosphere and a chance to appreciate Tang Dynasty architecture. The City Wall, one of the largest ancient military defenses in the world, provides a great opportunity to walk or cycle around the historic city center, with views of the modern Xi’an beyond.

In the lively Muslim Quarter, you’ll find street food, traditional snacks, and shops offering local crafts. The atmosphere is vibrant, and many reviews mention how much they enjoyed wandering through the bustling bazaar, sampling dumplings, and spotting the Great Mosque.

Day 7-8: Luoyang — From Tombs to Carvings

From Xi’an, the tour continues with a train to Luoyang (around 1.5 hours). Here, the Longmen Grottoes are a highlight—thousands of Buddhist statues carved into cliffs along the Yi River. Our guides emphasize the artistry and historical importance of the site, dating back over 1,500 years.

Later, you’ll visit the Shaolin Temple, known worldwide for its martial arts and Zen Buddhism. The site’s serenity and the stories of monks practicing centuries-old kung fu are captivating. The guides share details about the temple’s cultural significance and history, making it a meaningful visit.

Day 9-10: Chengdu — Pandas, Parks, and Local Life

A train from Luoyang to Chengdu (about 5.3 hours) brings you into Sichuan’s capital. The Chengdu Panda Base is a highlight for animal lovers; seeing over 80 pandas munching, playing, and lounging is as adorable as you’d expect. The guides are knowledgeable, explaining conservation efforts and the pandas’ habits, which enhances the experience.

In Renmin Park, you’ll mingle with locals enjoying tea, dance, and the slow pace of life. It’s an authentic slice of Chengdu’s relaxed lifestyle. The lively Jinli Pedestrian Street showcases local crafts, snacks, and folk performances—perfect for soaking up the city’s laid-back vibe and picking up souvenirs.

Day 11: Leshan — The Giant Buddha

Finally, a day trip to Leshan introduces you to the world’s largest carved stone Buddha. The Leshan Giant Buddha is an awe-inspiring sight, carved into the cliff face and gazing peacefully over the confluence of three rivers. You can walk down stairs for different vantage points, capturing stunning views and appreciating the incredible craftsmanship.

Afterward, you’ll head back to Chengdu for your onward journey, with a sense of having experienced some of China’s most iconic sites in a manageable, guided manner.

Why This Tour Works for You

This 11-day journey offers a great mix of cultural relics, natural beauty, and local lifestyle. The private guides are consistently praised for their knowledge and storytelling, making each site more meaningful. The included train tickets and entrance fees mean less stress and more time for sightseeing, which adds significant value to the overall cost.

The itinerary’s pacing is balanced—days are full but not overwhelming—and the focus on authentic experiences like exploring Hutongs, tasting local street food, and visiting family homes really makes the trip memorable. Plus, the option to customize or extend the tour could appeal to travelers wanting to dig deeper into specific regions.

However, be prepared for some long days and transfers, especially with the train rides. This tour suits travelers who enjoy a structured yet flexible itinerary and don’t mind some early mornings or walking.

The Sum Up

If you’re after a comprehensive introduction to China that combines history, culture, and natural scenery, this tour hits many of the right notes. The thoughtful inclusion of major landmarks like the Forbidden City, Terracotta Army, and Leshan Buddha is complemented by cultural touches like local food stops and family visits. The private setting ensures a personalized, relaxed experience despite the busy schedule.

The value for money is clear when considering all the entrance fees, train tickets, and guided services included in the price. It’s an excellent choice for travelers who want an immersive overview without the hassle of planning every detail themselves.

While the days are packed, the quality of guides and the diversity of sites make it worthwhile. If you’re eager to see China’s top sights in a comfortable, well-organized way, this tour offers a strong balance of authenticity, convenience, and memorable moments.

FAQ

Is this a private guided tour? Yes, it’s a private experience with your own guide and vehicle throughout the trip.

Are train tickets included? Yes, the tour includes second-class train tickets between key cities like Beijing, Datong, Pingyao, Xi’an, Luoyang, and Chengdu.

How long are the days? Expect full days with a lot of sightseeing, including early starts and long transfers between cities.

Are entrance fees included? Most major sites like the Forbidden City, Great Wall at Mutianyu, Terracotta Warriors, and Longmen Grottoes are covered in the tour price.

What’s the tour length? The core experience lasts 11 days, but you can extend or customize the itinerary.

Is food included? Lunch is included on some days, mainly during city tours. Dinner and hotel stays are not included but can be arranged separately.

What should I prepare for? Expect some walking, outdoor exposure, and a busy schedule, so comfortable shoes and flexibility are recommended.

Is transportation comfortable? Absolutely. The tour uses air-conditioned private vehicles, making long transfers more manageable.

Can I customize this tour? Yes, it’s designed as a private tour, so you can ask about adding extra days or specific sites.

Who is this tour best for? It’s ideal for travelers seeking a well-rounded, guided experience of China’s key attractions, without the stress of self-planning, and who are comfortable with busy days.