5 Days Private Xian & Shanghai Tour by Bullet Train Without Hotel

Experience a dynamic 5-day journey through Xi’an and Shanghai without the hassle of hotel stays. This private tour offers a well-balanced mix of cultural highlights and modern marvels, all with the comfort of private transfers and expert guides. The inclusion of bullet train travel makes it a swift, stress-free way to see two of China’s most captivating cities.

What we really appreciate about this tour is how smoothly it stitches together a packed itinerary, giving you enough time to enjoy each site without feeling rushed. However, keep in mind that this is a fast-paced trip—if you love taking your time at attractions, it might be a little brisk. Still, for those seeking a rundown with authentic experiences, this tour hits the mark.

Designed for travelers who want to maximize their cultural exposure in a short period, this experience suits those who enjoy guided tours, efficient transportation, and the flexibility of private arrangements. If you’re curious about history, architecture, and bustling city life, you’ll find this tour offers an excellent introduction to both Xi’an and Shanghai.

Key Points

• Private Guided Experience: Enjoy personalized attention and insightful commentary from experienced guides.
• Efficient Travel: Bullet train transfer between Xi’an and Shanghai speeds up your journey, saving time.
• Comprehensive Highlights: Visit top attractions like the Terracotta Warriors, Big Wild Goose Pagoda, The Bund, and Yuyuan Garden.
• All-Inclusive Entrance Fees: No hidden costs—entrance tickets are included for major sites.
• Flexible Options: Optional bike riding on the City Wall and river cruises add extra fun to your itinerary.
• Value for Money: At $696 per person, this tour combines transportation, guided tours, and entrance fees, offering a strong value for an organized trip.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Xi’an and City Highlights

Upon arrival in Xi’an, your guide and driver will be waiting to whisk you away from the airport or train station. The first impression of Xi’an is often its ancient charm, and immediately, you’ll head to the City Wall, the best-preserved and largest in China. Standing atop this ancient fortification, you’ll get a sense of how old the city is—it’s a real highlight and an Instagram-worthy spot.

If you’re feeling energetic, bike riding along the wall is available—an optional but memorable way to take in panoramic views of Xi’an’s skyline. The tour then moves to the Shaanxi History Museum, which isn’t just a collection of artifacts but a window into the region’s storied past. We loved the way this museum balances accessibility with depth—it’s a thoughtful inclusion for history buffs.

Later, a walk through Bell Tower Square and the lively Muslim Quarter rounds out the day. The Muslim Quarter, famous for its street food and bustling markets, offers a taste of local life. Sampling snacks here is a must—some reviews mention the delicious, spicy lamb skewers and sweet pastries as highlights.

Day 2: The Terracotta Army and Big Wild Goose Pagoda

No trip to Xi’an is complete without meeting the Terracotta Warriors. The museum’s scale and craftsmanship are awe-inspiring. We read a review from a traveler who appreciated the high quality of sculptures and the well-organized layout. The 3-hour visit allows ample time to explore the different pits and learn about the history behind these thousands of life-sized warriors, each with distinct facial features.

Post-lunch, the tour visits the Big Wild Goose Pagoda—a landmark with both spiritual and architectural significance. Built during the Tang Dynasty, this pagoda was constructed to house Buddhist scriptures brought from India, and it offers a peaceful atmosphere for reflection. The surrounding gardens and the view from the top provide photo opportunities.

Day 3: Transition to Shanghai via Bullet Train

Morning sees you heading to the train station for your bullet train to Shanghai. The ride is approximately 6 hours, but the high-speed train ensures comfort and a chance to witness China’s rapid development. Travelers have noted the smooth process of train transfers and the convenience of private guides handling logistics.

Upon arriving in Shanghai, you’ll immediately get a taste of the city’s vibrancy—your guide will take you to the Bund, the iconic waterfront area with colonial-era architecture. Strolling along the promenade offers spectacular views of modern skyscrapers across the river, and optional boat cruises can add a special touch to your experience.

Day 4: Exploring Shanghai’s Cultural Gems

Your day begins at the Jade Buddha Temple, home to two jade Buddha statues, and steeped in serenity. The guide explains its history and architecture, making the visit informative and calming—something we appreciated after a busy travel day.

Next, the Shanghai Museum impresses with its extensive collection of over 120,000 cultural artifacts. The diverse exhibits from ancient pottery to calligraphy are thoughtfully curated, offering insight into China’s artistic traditions. The museum’s central location makes it easy to explore further.

In the afternoon, you’ll visit Yuyuan Garden, a beautifully preserved Ming Dynasty garden with intricate pavilions, ponds, and rockeries. Its classical beauty makes it a favorite for photos and quiet contemplation. Nearby, Yuyuan Old Street beckons with vibrant market stalls selling souvenirs and snacks—perfect for souvenirs and a quick snack.

Finally, a stroll through the French Concession reveals tree-lined boulevards and colonial architecture, providing a contrasting glimpse of Shanghai’s past and present.

Day 5: Shanghai’s Iconic Landmark and Departure

Your last day features a visit to the Oriental Pearl Tower, which offers panoramic views of the city from its observation deck. The tower’s unique design makes it one of Shanghai’s most recognizable symbols.

Afterward, you’ll be transferred to the airport or train station for your departure. Throughout the tour, private transfers ensure smooth transitions between sites, and the flexible schedule allows you to absorb each attraction without feeling hurried.

Practical Insights and Extras

The tour’s inclusion of private transfer and English-speaking guides makes everything seamless, especially if you’re unfamiliar with local transportation or language. The entrance fees are covered, so you won’t face surprise costs, and each site’s accessibility is taken into account—though comfortable shoes are recommended given the amount of walking involved.

The tour offers optional activities like bike riding on the city wall or river cruises, which can add memorable touches but are not included in the base price. Travelers have noted that the tour runs on a tight schedule, so if you prefer to linger longer at specific sites, you might need to discuss options with your guide.

Cost-wise, at $696 per person, this tour offers significant value considering the logistics handled—train tickets, guides, entrance fees, and private transport. For travelers eager to see major sights efficiently, this is a smart choice.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive and curated overview of Xi’an and Shanghai in a short time frame. It’s perfect if you appreciate guided tours and prefer to avoid the stress of planning logistics, especially with high-speed train travel included. The private arrangement ensures flexibility within a structured schedule, making it suitable for first-time visitors or those short on time.

However, if you’re someone who likes to take your time exploring or detests rushing through attractions, this tour might feel a bit hurried. Also, if you’re traveling on a budget, consider the additional costs for optional activities or meals not included here. Still, for the value and convenience, it’s a solid choice for those eager to experience the highlights of China efficiently.

FAQs

Is transportation included in this tour?
Yes, private transfers in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle are included throughout the tour, and high-speed train tickets between Xi’an and Shanghai are part of the package.

Are entrance fees covered?
All the major sites listed in the itinerary include their entrance fees, so there are no hidden costs for attractions like the Terracotta Warriors, Big Wild Goose Pagoda, Shanghai Museum, or Jade Buddha Temple.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Since this is a private tour, you may have some flexibility to discuss optional activities like river cruises or bike riding, but major itinerary changes are best arranged in advance with your guide.

What is the tour starting point?
The tour begins at Xi’an’s Xianyang Airport or train station, with pick-up arranged around 11:30 am.

What is the best way to prepare for this tour?
Wear comfortable shoes for walking and bring a bottle of water. Confirm if you require vegetarian options or other dietary considerations when booking.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult, and the tour’s pace may be more suited to older children or teenagers who can handle a busy schedule.

How long are the travel days?
Travel days involve about 6 hours on the bullet train, with the rest of the day dedicated to sightseeing. Expect early mornings and a full day of activity.

Does the tour operate with a group?
No, it’s a private experience, so only your group will participate, ensuring personalized attention.

What happens if I need to cancel?
This experience is non-refundable and cannot be changed once booked; ensure your plans are firm before confirming.

To sum it up, this 5-day private China tour offers an impressive mix of history, culture, and modern cityscapes, making it an excellent choice for travelers eager to see the highlights without the hassle of planning. The seamless combination of private guides, transportation, and entrance fees provides great value, especially for visitors with limited time. While it moves at a brisk pace, it’s perfect for those wanting a rundown, fitting in key sights that define Xi’an and Shanghai. If you thrive on guided experiences and want to maximize your time, this tour is a smart, organized way to get a true taste of China’s past and present.