13-Day Private Tour to Shanghai,Yangtze River,Chongqing,Xi’an,Beijing and Guilin

Planning a comprehensive trip through China can be overwhelming. That’s why a well-structured, 13-day private tour like this one from happychinatours offers a fantastic way to see the country’s most iconic sights without the stress. From bustling Shanghai to the stunning karst landscapes of Guilin, this journey combines city highlights, culture, and scenic cruises — all with the comfort of private guides and transportation.

One thing we particularly love about this package is how it balances sightseeing with authentic local experiences. You get to explore ancient temples, modern skyscrapers, and natural wonders, all while enjoying the insightful commentary of expert guides who make history come alive. However, it’s worth noting that the itinerary is quite packed, so travelers should be ready for long days of exploring. This tour suits those who want an immersive, all-in-one experience and don’t mind a busy schedule.

If you’re eager to see China’s diverse landscapes, rich history, and vibrant cities in one seamless adventure, this trip offers excellent value. Just keep in mind the cost — around $3,722.67 per person — covers flights, entrance fees, private transport, and some meals, making it a good deal when considering the depth and variety of sights. Ideal for first-time visitors or those wishing to tick off major destinations in a convenient, guided format.

Key Points

• Diverse itinerary: Visits major cities, iconic landmarks, scenic river cruises, and natural wonders.
• Expert guides: Local guides with in-depth knowledge enhance the experience and provide cultural insights.
• All-inclusive value: Entrance fees, flights from Shanghai to Guilin, private transport, and some meals included.
• Authentic experiences: Visit to water towns, ancient temples, the Three Gorges Dam, and stunning rice terraces.
• Comfort and convenience: Private cars, well-paced activities, and optional group discounts.
• Long days, packed schedule: Expect early mornings and full days of sightseeing, perfect for travelers who love history and scenery.

A Deep Dive Into the 13-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Shanghai’s Modern Marvels and Old Charm

Your adventure begins with a pick-up from your hotel in Shanghai, heading straight for the Urban Planning Exhibition Hall. Here, you’ll see scale models and exhibits illustrating Shanghai’s growth from its modest beginnings to a thriving metropolis. It’s a smart introduction to the city’s rapid development, especially if you’re interested in urban planning and architecture.

Next, a serene stroll through Yu Garden offers a peaceful contrast. This ancient garden boasts intricate layouts and delicate architecture, including the famous Yu Ling Long jade peak. It’s a highlight for anyone who loves traditional Chinese garden design. Nearby, the Yuyuan Old Street buzzes with local vendors selling snacks, jewelry, and souvenirs — perfect for stocking up on unique gifts.

Your afternoon includes a visit to the Shanghai World Financial Center for panoramic city views from the 100th floor. You’ll see the skyline sprawl out beneath you with the Huangpu River winding through downtown. Later, the iconic The Bund area provides classic river views and colonial architecture — a photo-worthy moment as you watch the sunset over Shanghai.

Finally, some free time on Nanjing Road allows you to soak in the bustling shopping scene or relax at your hotel.

Day 2: Water Town Charm and Cultural Depth

Your guide will take you to Zhujiajiao Water Town, often called Shanghai’s Venice, with its ancient bridges and canals. Visiting Kezhi Garden, Qing Dynasty Post Office, and Fangsheng Bridge reveals a side of China that feels timeless. This town’s over 1,700-year-old history makes it a treasure trove of local architecture and traditions.

After lunch, a visit to Jade Buddha Temple introduces you to Chinese Buddhist culture. The famous white jade Buddha statues inside are impressive, and the active monastery is a peaceful spot for reflection.

The afternoon culminates at Tianzifang, a lively art and crafts district housed in traditional Shikumen-style buildings. You’ll find art studios, cafes, and bustling markets — a great place to experience contemporary Chinese creativity mingling with old-world charm.

Day 3 & 4: From Shanghai to the Mighty Yangtze

A short flight takes you to Yichang, gateway to the famed Three Gorges. Boarding the Victoria Cruise, a five-star vessel, begins your cruise through China’s most famous river. The Three Gorges Dam visit on Day 4 is a highlight: watching the colossal structure from Tianzi Mountain offers a breathtaking view, showcasing China’s engineering prowess.

Sailing through the Xiling Gorge, you’ll encounter cultural relics and enjoy the onboard atmosphere. The Shennong Stream excursion provides a chance to drift along tributaries, with local Tujia guides singing traditional songs — a rare, authentic moment.

Day 5 & 6: Winding Through Spectacular Gorges & Fengdu’s Ghost City

The cruise continues through Wu Gorge, with its striking peaks, and then through the Qutang Gorge, famous for its sheer cliffs and steep precipices. The side trip to Fengdu County introduces you to the Ghost City, a fascinating site of folklore, temples, and folk performances that showcase traditional beliefs about the afterlife.

Day 7 & 8: Chongqing’s Mountain City & Xi’an’s Ancient Wonders

Disembarking in Chongqing, you’ll explore the Wulong Karst area, renowned for its spectacular natural formations, including the famous Three Natural Bridges. These gigantic stone arches look like something out of a fantasy novel.

A quick flight then takes you to Xi’an, where the Terracotta Army awaits. The life-sized warriors and horses are mesmerizing, and detailed explanations from your guide make the experience even more engaging. Visiting the City Wall and Shaanxi History Museum rounds out your cultural dive into China’s ancient capital.

Day 9 & 10: From Imperial Palaces to the Great Wall

In Beijing, the tour hits the Tiananmen Square and Forbidden City, immersing you in China’s imperial history. The Mutianyu Great Wall section offers a scenic hike with stunning vistas, and the toboggan ride down adds a fun twist.

Day 11 & 12: Temples, Lakes, and the Magnificent Guilin Landscape

Your Beijing itinerary includes the Temple of Heaven, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and a walk through traditional Hutongs, where you can see how locals have lived for centuries. The Lama Temple and Summer Palace complete your cultural exploration.

Flying to Guilin, the breathtaking Reed Flute Cave introduces you to stunning rock formations. The highlight here is the Li River cruise to Yangshuo, where limestone peaks and river villages create a painter’s canvas. Climbing Xianggong Hill provides one of the best viewpoints of the river’s winding course.

Day 13: Guilin’s Natural Beauty & Farewell

Your trip concludes with a visit to the rice terraces in Longji, offering picturesque views of tiered fields and traditional Zhuang villages. The walking trails and scenic platforms make for unforgettable photo opportunities before heading back to Guilin.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

The Guides: Reviewers frequently mention how knowledgeable and friendly their guides, like Ms. Liu and Mr. Zhang, were. They don’t just narrate facts—they make the history tangible and even share personal stories that deepen your understanding of Chinese culture.

Scenic Cruises: The Yangtze River cruise on the Victoria vessel is a major highlight. The ship’s five-star amenities, combined with the breathtaking river scenery and cultural excursions at each gorge, offer value for the money and a relaxing way to see China’s interior waterways.

Authentic Cultural Stops: Visiting Zhujiajiao, Fengdu, and Longji’s rice terraces provides a genuine look into local life and traditions, far from touristy gimmicks. Multiple reviews praise the opportunity to experience China’s rural and historical essence.

Value for Money: For around $3,722.67, you get flights, entrance fees, private transportation, and guided experiences — a solid package considering the inclusions and the extensive itinerary. The combination of city exploration, natural beauty, and culture offers excellent diversity.

Food & Local Experiences: Many travelers appreciated the included meals and the chance to try local dishes in different regions, from Shanghai snacks to Zhuang village specialties. The authenticity and variety make the trip more memorable.

Long Days & Busy Schedule: That said, some found the days quite long, with early starts and packed timings. It’s perfect for energetic travelers eager to maximize their experience but might be tiring for those seeking more leisure.

Practical Tips & Considerations

• Travel Pace: The itinerary is vigorous, with lots of walking and early mornings, so pack comfortable shoes and be prepared for full days.
• Group Size & Privacy: As a private tour, you benefit from personalized guides and flexible timings, which is a big plus for comfort and tailored experiences.
• Cost & Inclusions: The fee covers most major expenses, but note that the Yangtze cruise service charge of CNY150 per adult isn’t included and should be budgeted for.
• Best Time to Travel: The tour note mentions avoiding peak holiday times like October 1-7 or Chinese New Year, when tickets sell out quickly and crowds swell.
• Optional Add-ons: Extra days can be added, and meals are optional, so you can customize based on your preferences and pace.

The Sum Up

This 13-day private tour is ideal for travelers who want an all-encompassing, guided journey across China’s most emblematic sites. It offers a well-balanced mix of urban exploration, natural landscapes, and culture, all wrapped in the comfort of private transportation and expert guides.

If you’re looking for a hassle-free way to see China’s highlights, with added scenic cruises and authentic local experiences, this tour delivers solid value. It’s perfect for first-timers who want a comprehensive introduction or seasoned travelers craving a structured, yet immersive itinerary.

Be prepared for some long days, but know that every moment is packed with sights, stories, and spectacular views. This is a fantastic way to tick all the major boxes of China’s diverse offerings in just over two weeks.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for solo travelers?
Yes, since it’s a private tour, solo travelers can enjoy the experience with personalized guides and private transport.

Are flights between cities included?
Yes, the tour includes four main flights, such as Shanghai to Guilin and Xi’an to Beijing, which are part of the package and help save planning time.

What about entrance fees?
Most major attractions, including the Terracotta Army, the Forbidden City, and Reed Flute Cave, have entrance tickets covered in the tour.

Are meals included?
Some meals are included, like breakfast and lunch, but dinner isn’t automatically provided. Meals are optional, giving flexibility.

Can I add extra days to this tour?
Absolutely, you can extend your stay or customize the itinerary to include additional attractions or leisure time.

What’s the level of physical activity involved?
Expect lots of walking, stair climbing, and some light trekking, especially at the rice terraces and Great Wall.

Is there a group size limit?
Being a private tour, your group will be the only participants, ensuring a more intimate experience.

What should I pack?
Comfortable walking shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, camera, and a sense of adventure. Be prepared for both urban and rural environments.

In summary, this 13-day private tour offers an engaging, well-rounded look at China’s most iconic sights, blending history, natural beauty, and modernity. It’s a fantastic choice for travelers wanting a thoughtfully curated experience with the comfort of private guides and transportation, all at a reasonable price point considering the scope of activities and inclusions.