17-Day Private Tour to Shanghai,Xi’an,Sichuan,Yunnan Lijiang and Guilin

Traveling through China can feel like flipping through a living history book — vibrant, diverse, and endlessly fascinating. This 17-day private journey takes you from the bustling streets of Shanghai to the ancient allure of Xi’an, the panda-filled parks of Chengdu, the breathtaking landscapes of Yunnan, and the stunning karst scenery of Guilin. It’s a carefully curated mix of modern marvels, historical sites, and natural wonders, all designed to give you a comprehensive taste of China’s many faces.

What we love about this experience is how it balances iconic attractions with authentic local encounters. The guides seem genuinely passionate, sharing insider tips and tales that add depth to each stop. Plus, the flexible, private format means you can tailor your pace and enjoy personalized attention.

A possible downside? The itinerary is packed, which might leave some feeling rushed, especially on travel days. Be prepared for long stretches in transit and early starts, but believe us, the scenery and experiences make every minute worthwhile.

This tour is best suited for travelers who crave a deep dive into China’s culture, history, and landscapes, and who appreciate a well-organized, hassle-free trip with knowledgeable guides. It offers great value considering the included flights, train tickets, entrance fees, and private transport, making it a convenient way to cover a lot of ground.

Key Points

• Authentic Experiences: Visits to local markets, water towns, and cultural landmarks offer genuine insights into Chinese life.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides enhance each stop with stories, context, and insider tips.
• Comfort & Convenience: Private transportation, skip-the-line tickets, and organized flights make travel smooth and stress-free.
• Diverse Landscapes: From Shanghai’s skyline to Yunnan’s mountains and Guilin’s karst scenery, the journey covers China’s visual diversity.
• Value for Money: Included flights, trains, entrance fees, and private guides create a comprehensive package that saves you money and hassle.
• Thoughtful Pace: While busy, the schedule allows time to explore key sites thoroughly, plus some free time for personal discoveries.

An In-Depth Look at the 17-Day Itinerary

Day 1-2: Exploring Shanghai’s Modern and Old Charm

Starting in Shanghai, you’re met with a curated introduction to China’s largest city. The visit to the Urban Planning Exhibition Hall is a highlight — it’s fascinating to see how Shanghai envisions its future, with models and digital projections forecasting the city’s growth beyond 2020. The entrance is included, and the high-tech displays make it more engaging than your average museum.

Next, wandering through the historic Yu Garden gives you a taste of classical Chinese landscaping and architecture. The delicate pavilions, winding corridors, and the jade stone Yu Ling Long are enough to make any garden lover smile. Adjacent Yuyuan Old Street offers a bustling market scene, with traditional buildings hosting shops selling local snacks, jewelry, and souvenirs.

The visit to the Shanghai World Financial Center, where you’ll ascend to the 100th floor for panoramic views, is a selfie-worthy moment. The skyline from this height is spectacular, especially as the sun begins to set, lighting up the cityscape. Finally, a stroll along the iconic The Bund lets you admire the gothic architecture and the glittering river views, capturing the essence of Shanghai’s blend of East and West.

Day 2: Water Town Charm and Transition to Xi’an

A morning trip to Zhujiajiao Water Town is a serene contrast to the city’s hustle. Often called “Shanghai’s Venice,” this ancient water village boasts charming bridges, traditional houses, and quiet canals. Visiting Kezhi Garden and Fangsheng Bridge offers a glimpse into old-world China, with plenty of photo opportunities.

Post-lunch, the Jade Buddha Temple provides peace amid the city’s chaos — its two white jade Buddha statues are a serene highlight. The lively Tianzifang district, full of art studios and cafés in historic shikumen buildings, is the perfect place for a relaxed afternoon.

Later, you’re transferred to Pudong Airport for a flight to Xi’an, which is included in the package. The flight duration is about 3 hours, and the transfer from Xi’an airport to your hotel is simple, ensuring a smooth transition to your next adventure.

Days 3-4: Unearthing the Terracotta Army and Historical Marvels

In Xi’an, the Terracotta Warriors are the showstopper. Visiting the pits and bronze chariots, you’ll see an army that’s astonishingly vivid despite being buried for over two millennia. The online reservation and skip-the-line tickets are appreciated, especially in peak season.

The Small Wild Goose Pagoda offers a peaceful break, with its ancient architecture symbolizing the city’s Buddhist heritage. Walking along the Xi’an City Wall provides a unique perspective of the city’s historical defense system — you can either walk or rent a bike for a more active experience.

The bustling Muslim Quarter is a feast for the senses, with stalls selling local snacks, spices, and crafts. It’s a lively environment, perfect for a casual stroll and dinner.

Days 4-7: From Han Tombs to Mount Emei

The visit to the Hanyangling Mausoleum is a rare chance to explore an active archaeological site with modern exhibits like the Spectra Vision, which vividly reconstructs the Western Han Dynasty. It’s a fascinating combination of ancient tombs and cutting-edge presentation.

The Shaanxi History Museum enriches your understanding of China’s early dynasties through its extraordinary collection of artifacts. The Big Wild Goose Pagoda offers a quick photo stop; its iconic structure is a symbol of the city’s Buddhist roots and a popular spot for visitors.

Next, a train whisks you away to Chengdu, home of pandas. The Chengdu Panda Base is a highlight, especially if you love animals. Watching pandas munch and play in spacious habitats is adorable and educational. The relaxed atmosphere of Renmin Park and the lively Jinli Pedestrian Street show you local life and traditional Sichuan culture.

A day trip to Leshan’s Giant Buddha is awe-inspiring; it’s the largest carved stone Buddha and offers stunning river views. Nearby, Baoguo Temple is a tranquil spot, and then you’re off to Emei Mountain — a UNESCO World Heritage site. The scenic bus to the top, followed by time at the Golden Summit, rewards you with clouds, temples, and a colossal Buddha statue.

Days 8-11: Scenic Highs in Jiuzhaigou and Huanglong

Long travel days become an adventure as you journey into Sichuan’s mountainous areas. The drive from Chengdu to Jiuzhaigou passes through Tibetan villages and lush landscapes — a scenic prelude to the natural wonders ahead.

Jiuzhaigou’s Natural Reserve is a showcase of turquoise lakes, waterfalls, and forests. The route through Rize Valley, Zechawa Valley, and Shuzheng Valley offers plenty of photo ops, especially at spots like Five Flower Lake and Pearl Shoals.

Next, Huanglong Scenic Area’s multicolored ponds and snow-capped peaks are a visual feast. The cable car access and walking routes allow you to comfortably appreciate the vibrant terraces and limestone formations.

A stop in Chuanzhusi Town gives a break from the high-altitude hikes, with a chance to relax or explore local markets.

Days 12-14: From Mysterious Lijiang to Tiger Leaping Gorge

Traveling from Chengdu to Lijiang involves a short flight, giving you more time for exploration. Lijiang’s Old Town, with its charming Naxi architecture and waterways, immediately immerses you in local life.

A day at Jade Dragon Snow Mountain features cable car rides and breathtaking views of glaciers and peaks. The Impression Lijiang Show offers spectacular outdoor performances by local ethnic groups, blending dance, music, and storytelling.

The scenic Blue Moon Valley is a must-visit, with its strikingly blue river and lush surroundings. Visiting Baisha Village reveals ancient mural paintings and traditional Naxi culture, adding depth to your understanding of the region.

The highlight of this segment is hiking part of Tiger Leaping Gorge, one of the world’s deepest gorges. The walk offers dramatic views of the Jinsha River and towering cliffs, a true highlight for outdoor enthusiasts.

Days 15-17: Guilin’s Scenic Rivers and Rice Terraces

A short flight from Lijiang to Guilin begins your final chapter. The Reed Flute Cave dazzles with stalagmites and stalactites, glowing under colorful lights that turn the cavern into an underground fairy tale.

The Longji Rice Terraces in Ping’an Village are a marvel of agricultural artistry, with terraced fields winding up mountain slopes. Walking through the villages and across viewing platforms provides spectacular photo angles and insights into local farming traditions.

The Li River cruise from Guilin to Yangshuo deserves a special mention — the boat glides past limestone peaks, rural villages, and lush greenery, making it one of China’s most picturesque journeys. You’ll love the views from Xianggong Hill, the perfect spot for panoramic photos of the iconic river bend.

Finally, exploring Yangshuo’s quaint streets or relaxing by the riverside wraps up your trip with a taste of rural China’s charm.

Final Thoughts on Value and Suitability

This tour offers an incredible mix of cultural, historical, and natural sights, all within a well-organized private framework that minimizes stress and maximizes comfort. The inclusion of flights, train tickets, and entry fees makes the price of around $4,586.67 per person quite reasonable for such an extensive itinerary. The guides, praised for their enthusiasm and knowledge, really elevate the experience by sharing stories and tips that bring each site to life.

For travelers who love to see many facets of a country — urban landscapes, ancient relics, and stunning scenery — this trip hits the mark. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate comfort, detailed planning, and a mix of guided insights with free time to explore. The long travel days, while unavoidable given the scope, are balanced by the richness of the destinations and the quality of accommodations and transport.

This isn’t a trip for those seeking a slow-paced or purely leisure-focused holiday, but if you want to come away with a well-rounded understanding of China’s diversity, it’s hard to beat.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for solo travelers?
Yes. The private nature of the tour makes it ideal for solo travelers who want the comfort and flexibility of a personalized experience.

Are flights from Shanghai to Guilin included?
Yes, the tour includes three flight tickets from Shanghai to Guilin, all in economy class.

What’s the transportation like during the tour?
You’ll travel in an air-conditioned private vehicle for all transfers and sightseeing, ensuring comfort and convenience.

Are entrance tickets included?
Yes, all major entrance fees for attractions like the Terracotta Army, Jiuzhaigou, Huanglong, and the Panda Base are covered.

Can I customize the itinerary?
While this is a set itinerary, the private nature allows some flexibility. You can discuss additional days or site preferences with the tour provider.

What language do guides speak?
Guides are professional and knowledgeable, mostly fluent in English, making explanations clear and engaging.

Does the tour include meals?
Lunch is included on certain days, with optional meal packages available. Dinners are not included but are easy to find locally.

Are airport transfers included?
Yes, transfers from airports to hotels and vice versa are included, providing a seamless experience.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Generally yes, but consider the long travel days and physical activity involved, especially hiking or walking at high altitudes.

The Sum Up

This 17-day China tour offers a thorough, enjoyable way to see the country’s most iconic sites and hidden gems, all with expert guides and private transport. It’s perfect for travelers eager for a comprehensive experience that balances culture, natural beauty, and historical discovery.

The included flights and tickets make it a good value, removing much of the hassle of planning individual components. The guides’ local insights and the opportunity to explore sites at your own pace mean you’ll leave with more than just photos — you’ll carry lasting memories.

While the schedule is intense, it rewards those willing to embrace a full-on adventure with plenty of stunning vistas, fascinating stories, and authentic encounters. If you’re after a hassle-free, well-organized trip that covers China’s highlights and some lesser-known treasures, this tour fits the bill beautifully.

Ready to explore China’s diverse landscapes, ancient sites, and vibrant cities? This tour offers a seamless blend of comfort and adventure, perfect for travelers keen on depth and variety.