12-Day Private Trip From Beijing

Exploring China’s Treasures in 12 Days: A Closer Look at This Private Beijing-Based Tour

Traveling through China with a well-organized, private 12-day itinerary promises a deep dive into some of the country’s most celebrated landmarks and cultural gems. This package, priced at $3,360 per person, offers an efficient mix of guided visits, scenic cruises, and domestic flights, designed for those who want a comprehensive experience without the hassle of planning every detail. The inclusion of a private English-speaking guide and transportation makes it easier to learn about the sights while keeping everything smooth and manageable.

What we particularly like about this tour is how it balances major highlights with authentic local experiences—like the hutong rickshaw ride and a chance to meet a local family for lunch. However, one thing to keep in mind is that hotel accommodation is not included, which means you’ll need to book your own hotels along the way. This can be a plus for travelers who prefer to tailor their stay, but it might require more planning if you’re unfamiliar with the options in each city. This tour seems ideal for travelers who want a structured, guided adventure that covers the essentials plus some memorable extras.

Key Points

• Comprehensive coverage of Beijing, Xi’an, Chongqing, and Shanghai highlights
• Private guides and transport ensure personalized attention and comfort
• Cruise experience on the Yangtze River adds a scenic, relaxing element
• Flexible hotel arrangements allow for personal preferences and budgets
• Inclusion of flights and entrance fees ease logistical planning
• Authentic local experiences like hutong tours and family lunches provide cultural insight

A Detailed Look at the Itinerary

Day 1: Welcome to Beijing

Your adventure kicks off with a pickup at Beijing Capital International Airport. The guide will transfer you comfortably to your hotel, setting the tone for a stress-free journey. While hotel specifics aren’t included in the package, the convenience of an airport pickup is a strong start, especially after a long flight. No sightseeing today, just anticipation.

Day 2: The Forbidden City and Summer Palace

Starting with the Forbidden City, you’ll explore the vast complex that served as the imperial palace for centuries. The guide, likely a wealth of knowledge, will help you navigate the sprawling halls and courtyards, making the history come alive. The admission is included, and you’ll appreciate not having to worry about tickets or lines.

In the afternoon, the Summer Palace awaits. Expect stunning gardens, lakes, and traditional pavilions that offer a glimpse into imperial leisure. A visit to a silk factory adds a local touch, showcasing Chinese craftsmanship. The guided commentary makes these sites more than just photo opportunities—they become stories you’ll want to remember.

Day 3: The Great Wall at Mutianyu

A highlight for many travelers, the Mutianyu Great Wall offers impressive views and fewer crowds than other sections. The jade gallery visit in the morning adds to the culture, giving insight into local craftsmanship. The Wall itself is a marvel of ancient engineering, and the guided tour ensures you hit all the best spots while learning about its history. Expect about three hours here, with plenty of chances to snap photos and soak in the vistas.

Day 4: Temples and Museums

Your morning starts at the Temple of Heaven, an architectural masterpiece used by emperors for ceremonies. The visit is brief but packed with significance. Later, the Beijing Capital Museum provides a chance to admire Chinese art and relics, enriching your understanding of the city’s cultural depth.

Day 5: Hutongs and Flight to Xi’an

The Drum Tower and nearby hutongs are best experienced on a rickshaw tour, which is both fun and insightful—think tiny alleyways and local life just outside the modern city. Afterwards, you’ll share a lunch with a local family, a genuine opportunity to connect with Beijing residents and savor home-cooked flavors.

That afternoon, a flight takes you to Xi’an, home to one of China’s most famous archaeological sites. The transition from Beijing’s imperial grandeur to Xi’an’s ancient history feels seamless with this efficient schedule.

Day 6: Terracotta Warriors and the Great Mosque

No trip to Xi’an is complete without visiting the Terracotta Warriors, an awe-inspiring collection of thousands of life-sized statues guarding Emperor Qinshihuang’s mausoleum. The guide’s expertise makes it easier to understand the significance, while the site’s scale impresses even seasoned travelers.

In the afternoon, explore the Great Mosque, an architectural blend of Chinese and Islamic styles, highlighting Xi’an’s diverse history.

Day 7: City Walls and Flight to Chongqing

The Xi’an City Wall offers a chance to walk or cycle along ancient fortifications that have stood for centuries. The Giant Wild Goose Pagoda adds a spiritual and architectural dimension to your morning. The afternoon flight then whisks you to Chongqing, where you’ll board your Yangtze River cruise—a relaxing way to see China’s inland scenery.

Days 8-9: Cruising the Yangtze

The Yangtze River cruise is a standout feature, offering stunning views of Xiling Gorge, Qutang Gorge, and Wu Gorge—some of the most dramatic river landscapes in China. Expect about six hours each day on the water, with excursions to Daning River or Shennong Stream providing additional scenic highlights.

Guests have found the cruise to be relaxing, with some reviewers noting the well-organized nature of the boat services and the high-quality guidance onboard. The cruise ships, either Victoria or Victoria Lianna, are described as comfortable, though not luxurious, making them an excellent value for the scenic experience.

Day 10: Yichang to Shanghai

Arriving early in Yichang, you’ll transfer to the airport for a flight to Shanghai. The visit here is brief but meaningful, with sights such as Yu Garden offering a peaceful retreat amid the bustling city, and the Jade Buddha Temple adding a spiritual touch. The inclusion of admission tickets simplifies your day.

Day 11: Shanghai’s Highlights

Your final full day includes Yu Garden, a classic example of traditional Chinese landscaping and architecture. The afternoon takes you to Pearl Gallery and the Jade Buddha Temple, rounding out your cultural exploration with art and spiritual insights.

Day 12: Departure

Your guide will transfer you to the airport for your flight home, concluding a trip that has taken you through China’s most iconic sights and hidden gems.

What We Love About This Tour

This 12-day adventure offers a well-rounded glimpse of China’s most notable sites, with expert guides who bring stories to life and make navigating busy attractions easier. The scenic cruise on the Yangtze is a major highlight—it’s a peaceful break from sightseeing with stunning river vistas. The local experiences like the hutong tour and family lunch add authenticity that many tours overlook.

The organized transport and included entrance fees save travelers from logistical headaches, especially helpful in a country as vast and complex as China. Plus, the domestic flights save time, allowing more focus on sightseeing rather than transit.

One consideration: hotel stays are not included, so travelers should plan their accommodations in advance to match their preferences and budgets. This flexibility can be a boon for those wanting a boutique hotel or a luxury stay, but it also means extra planning on your part.

Who this tour is perfect for:

• Travelers seeking a comprehensive, guided experience covering major Chinese cities and attractions
• Those who enjoy a mix of cultural sites, scenic landscapes, and authentic local interactions
• Visitors comfortable with arranging their own accommodations but valuing included guided tours and transportation
• Adventure lovers who appreciate a diverse schedule combining city exploration, historical sights, and river cruises

A Final Word

This 12-day private tour offers a balanced blend of history, scenery, and culture, all delivered with expert guides and seamless logistics. The inclusion of a Yangtze River cruise adds a layer of serenity and natural beauty that’s hard to find elsewhere in packaged tours. While you’ll need to handle your own hotel arrangements, the overall value is undeniable given the comprehensive itinerary, convenience, and authentic experiences.

Ideal for curious travelers eager to cover China’s highlights without the stress of planning every detail, this tour provides a genuine, enriching way to understand the country’s past and present. Whether you’re into ancient walls, imperial palaces, or river gorges, this journey makes it all accessible and memorable.

FAQs

• Is airport pickup included? Yes, your guide will meet you at Beijing Capital International Airport and transfer you to your hotel.
• Are hotel accommodations included in the package? No, hotel stays are not included, giving you the flexibility to choose your preferred accommodations.
• What transportation is used during the tour? All travel between sites and cities is via private, air-conditioned vehicle, with domestic flights arranged for longer distances.
• Are entrance fees included? Yes, all site entrance fees listed in the itinerary are covered.
• How long is the cruise on the Yangtze River? The cruise lasts for three nights, with about six hours of sailing each day, plus scenic excursions.
• Is this tour suitable for solo travelers? Yes, it’s a private tour tailored to your group, making it comfortable for solo travelers who prefer guided experiences.
• What should I wear? Dress smart casual; consider comfortable shoes for walking and layers for varying weather.
• Can I cancel this tour? Yes, cancellations are possible up to 6 days in advance for a full refund.
• Are meals included? Lunch is optional but available, and some local experiences include meals; other meals are at your own expense.
• Will I be traveling with a group? No, this is a private experience, so only your group will participate, allowing personalized attention.

This detailed review aims to help you decide whether this China tour matches your travel style and expectations. From bustling cities to tranquil river scenes, it promises a well-rounded adventure—one that’s both organized and flexible enough for your personal preferences.