12-Day Private tour to Chengdu, Chongqing,Yangtze River, Zhangjiajie & Shanghai

A comprehensive look at a 12-day private journey through China’s most iconic sights—from pandas and ancient temples in Chengdu to the breathtaking sandstone pillars of Zhangjiajie and the bustling streets of Shanghai. This tour is designed for travelers eager to see the best of China with the comfort of private transportation, guided insights, and thoughtfully curated experiences.

One feature we particularly love is how the itinerary balances nature, culture, and modern marvels. It’s not just about ticking boxes but about really soaking in the essence of each location. The inclusion of a Yangtze River cruise and visits to UNESCO World Heritage sites like the Dazu Rock Carvings makes this a rich, rewarding experience. A possible consideration? The duration of some travel days, like the 4.5-hour drive from Zhangjiajie to Shanghai, might be long for some, but it’s balanced with plenty of scenic stops and cultural highlights.

This tour suits adventurous travelers who enjoy diverse landscapes—from pandas and ancient carvings to towering sandstone formations—and those who appreciate guided insights but prefer the flexibility of a private tour. It also offers excellent value for the comprehensive experience offered, especially considering the included transportation, entrance fees, and some flights.

Key Points

• Authentic experiences: Visits to panda bases, ancient temples, and UNESCO sites deliver genuine cultural insights.
• Stunning scenery: From Leshan Buddha to Zhangjiajie’s sandstone pillars, views are truly spectacular.
• Comfort and convenience: Private cars, guided tours, and included flights make logistics smooth.
• Cultural immersion: Activities like tea at Renmin Park and exploring Old Shanghai add local flavor.
• Good value for money: The price covers numerous entry tickets, train tickets, and some flights, reducing hidden costs.
• Balanced pacing: Carefully scheduled to balance sightseeing with downtime, though some travel days are long.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Days 1-2: Chengdu – Pandas, Parks, and Old Streets

Your adventure kicks off in Chengdu, a city famous for its relaxed vibe and adorable pandas. The visit to the Chengdu Panda Base is a highlight—here, you’ll see over 80 pandas in habitats that mimic their natural environment. Reviewers appreciate how the pandas are lively and well cared for, with some noting they particularly enjoyed watching them eat bamboo or play. The Red Pandas are also adorable side attractions.

Next, a stroll in Renmin Park gives you a glimpse of traditional Chengdu life—locals sipping tea, reading newspapers, or chatting. It’s the place to understand the leisurely pace of life in Sichuan. Then, a walk along Jinli Pedestrian Street offers a lively scene filled with local snacks, arts, and folk shows. Packing in these spots early sets a wonderful tone for the trip—combining nature, culture, and culinary delights.

Day 2: Leshan Giant Buddha and train to Chongqing

The trip continues with a visit to the Leshan Giant Buddha, carved into cliffs over 1,300 years ago. It’s the largest carved stone Buddha in the world and offers impressive views from various vantage points. From a review perspective, most visitors found the experience awe-inspiring, especially considering how the Buddha was built in hopes of calming the river waters—a true testament to Chinese ingenuity and faith.

Afterward, you’ll take a bullet train to Chongqing, a city known for its vibrant nightlife and spicy cuisine. The train journey is a smooth 1.5 hours, providing a comfortable transfer between the two cities. A reviewer mentioned how the train was clean and efficient, a great way to conserve energy for more exploring in Chongqing.

Days 3-4: Chongqing & Wulong Karst

Chongqing itself offers a mix of historic sites and scenic viewpoints. You’ll visit the People’s Assembly Hall and the Stilwell Museum, giving insight into China’s modern history. The downtown area, especially Ciqikou Old Town, is perfect for wandering around traditional streets with a spice of local life.

The highlight might be the Wulong Karst area, famously used in the “Transformers” movie. The incredible Three Natural Bridges are awe-inspiring, with their towering stone arches. Reviewers rave about the breathtaking scenery and the chance to walk amidst natural wonder. You’ll also get to explore Furong Cave and Fairy Mountain, adding to the adventure.

Day 5-6: From Chongqing to the Yangtze River

Your journey continues with the Yangtze River cruise, starting from Chongqing’s Chaotianmen Pier. The cruise provides a leisurely way to see some of China’s most famous gorges—Qutang, Wu, and Xiling. The Fengdu Ghost City on the way is a quirky stop filled with mythological temples and sculptures.

The Shennv Stream excursion from Badong is a major highlight, offering a peaceful boat ride along mossy rocks, lush greenery, and hanging coffins. Reviewers mention how the cruise is relaxing but packed with scenic stops, making it ideal for those who enjoy water-based sightseeing.

Days 7-8: The Grand Gorges & Three Gorges Dam

Passing through the Grand Three Gorges—Qutang, Wu, and Xiling—you’ll witness some of China’s most dramatic landscapes. The Three Gorges Dam visit is a chance to see the world’s largest hydropower project, which impresses with its scale and engineering. Many travelers appreciate the opportunity to see this modern marvel firsthand.

The cruise concludes in Yichang, where you’ll transfer to Zhangjiajie—a city renowned for its stunning sandstone pillars and inspiring scenery.

Days 9-10: Zhangjiajie – Avatar’s Inspiration

Zhangjiajie is often called a natural wonderland. Visiting the National Forest Park, with its towering sandstone formations, feels like stepping onto another planet—fitting, since it inspired the floating mountains in Avatar. The Tianzi Mountain and Yuanjiajie sections offer jaw-dropping views and a chance to walk among some of the most peculiar rock formations in the world.

You’ll also experience the Bailong Elevator, a jaw-dropping 335-meter-high glass lift, as well as the Zhangjiajie Glass Bridge, the longest and highest glass bridge globally. Reviewers find these highlights thrilling, especially the views from the top—though some mention the crowds can be intense.

Days 11-12: From Zhangjiajie to Shanghai

A drive or flight takes you from Zhangjiajie to Shanghai. The city’s famous skyline and historic streets are the perfect end to the trip. The visit to the Urban Planning Exhibition Hall reveals how Shanghai transformed from a fishing village into a financial hub.

Strolling through Yuyuan Garden and Old Market, you’ll experience traditional architecture and local snacks. Visiting the World Financial Center and riding up to the 100th floor provides spectacular city views. For a charming end, a trip to Zhujiajiao Water Town uncovers a quieter, picturesque side of Shanghai, with historic bridges and waterways.

Why Travelers Will Love This Tour

This tour is packed with diverse experiences—nature lovers will thrill at Zhangjiajie’s iconic peaks, while history buffs will appreciate the ancient carvings and the Leshan Buddha. The private transportation and guides mean you won’t be stuck with large groups or confusing schedules, making for a more personalized experience.

The inclusion of entrance tickets, train, and flight arrangements simplifies planning and adds value. The scenic diversity—from pandas and temples to gorges and sandstone pillars—ensures you’ll see a broad spectrum of China’s landscape and culture.

A Few Considerations

While the pace is well-managed, some days involve long drives or cruise days that last several hours. If you thrive on active touring, this is ideal; if you prefer more downtime, you might find the schedule slightly packed.

Also, the tour does not include hotels, breakfasts, or dinners, so budget and plan accordingly. The price, at around $3,250 per person, is reasonable considering the included transportation, tickets, and flights, especially for a 12-day private experience.

Final Thoughts

This 12-day private tour offers a well-rounded glimpse of China’s most captivating sights. From the pandas of Chengdu, through the dramatic gorges of the Yangtze River, to the surreal landscapes of Zhangjiajie, and ending in the bustling metropolis of Shanghai, it’s designed for those who want the ultimate insider experience with comfort.

It’s perfect for travelers who appreciate a mix of nature, history, and modernity—and who value guided insights but also want some flexibility. The inclusion of key highlights like the Three Gorges Dam and Avatar-inspired scenery makes it a memorable journey.

While some days are intensive, the overall balance of scenic stops, cultural sites, and leisure activities makes this a fantastic choice for immersive travel through China’s diverse regions. Expect stunning views, knowledgeable guides, and a taste of authentic local life along the way.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, as long as participants are comfortable with some walking and longer travel days. The tour is private, so it can be tailored to suit family needs.

Are meals included in the tour?
No, the tour does not include hotel, breakfast, or dinner, but optional meals like lunch are available and can be arranged.

What transportation is used during the tour?
A private car and guide are provided for transfers within cities, and bullet train tickets and flights are included where specified.

How are entrance tickets handled?
All entrance fees for attractions listed are included in the price, so there’s no need to worry about extra costs on-site.

Is the tour flexible?
Yes, this is a private tour, so it can be adjusted to suit your interests or pace — just ask your guide.

How long are travel days?
Some days involve several hours of driving or cruising, such as the 4.5-hour drive from Zhangjiajie to Shanghai, but these are balanced with scenic and cultural stops.

What is the accommodation like?
Hotel details are not included, so travelers will need to arrange their own accommodations, which can be tailored to preferences and budget.

Do I need to do any advance booking for attractions?
All key entrance tickets are included, but some optional activities or specific times may require prior arrangement. Confirm with your guide.

Is this tour suitable for solo travelers?
Absolutely. The private nature makes it ideal for solo travelers wanting a tailored experience with the comfort of private transportation.

This detailed, balanced tour offers an authentic and visually stunning experience of China’s most celebrated sights—perfect for adventurous souls eager to explore beyond the usual.