6-Day Private China Highlights Tour from Xi’an: Beijing, Shanghai and Guilin

Traveling through China can feel overwhelming — the sheer size, history, and cultural richness make it a challenge to decide what to see first. This 6-Day Private China Highlights Tour, starting from Xi’an and covering Beijing, Guilin, and Shanghai, offers a well-paced way to tick off some of the country’s most iconic sites without the hassle of planning every detail yourself.

What we love about this experience is how it balances top-tier sights like the Great Wall and the Forbidden City with some lesser-known gems, all while maintaining a relaxed, private vibe. The inclusion of private transportation, expert guides, and entry fees makes it feel seamless.

One thing to consider is the fast-paced itinerary — if you’re looking for a slow, immersive experience, this might be a bit rushed, especially given the tight schedule and multiple flights. Still, for those who want a comprehensive snapshot of China’s highlights in a short time, this tour hits the mark.

Ideal for travelers who crave a guided tour with local insights, efficient transportation, and iconic landmarks. It’s perfect if you prefer a mix of culture, history, and scenery, and are comfortable with a busy schedule.

Key Points

• Efficient Itinerary: Covers major sights in Beijing, Guilin, and Shanghai, with a good balance of cultural landmarks and scenic landscapes.
• Private Guides & Transport: Personalized attention and flexible planning enhance your experience.
• Value for Money: Includes flights, entrance fees, cruise tickets, and some meals, making it a convenient all-in-one package.
• Authentic Experiences: Visits to the Great Wall, Forbidden City, Li River, and more give real insight into Chinese history and landscapes.
• Well-Paced Schedule: While busy, the itinerary avoids unnecessary downtime, making the most of each location.
• Optional Add-Ons: Accommodation upgrades and flexible end points allow you to tailor the trip to your preferences.

This tour is an ambitious jaunt through China’s most famous sights, designed for those who want the most iconic locations with minimal fuss. It’s a well-structured package that combines flights, guided visits, and scenic cruises — all within a manageable time frame. But what does that really mean for you as a traveler? Let’s get into the details.

Starting in Xi’an and Flying to Beijing

The adventure begins with a convenient hotel pickup in Xi’an, followed by a short flight to Beijing. The value here is clear: instead of navigating complicated train routes or long bus rides, your private transfer and flight save time and energy. This allows you to jump straight into sightseeing upon arrival.

In Beijing, the tour kicks off with the Temple of Heaven, a UNESCO World Heritage site that historically functioned as a place where emperors sought divine favor for a good harvest. The guide points out the Hall of Prayer for Good Harvest and the Echo Wall, which is famous for its sound-catching properties. We loved how the local park was alive with retired folks doing tai chi and dancing, giving you a taste of everyday life.

Next, there’s a walk through the Yuanqiutan, where your guide will share stories about how emperors engaged with the gods — a fascinating peek into imperial rituals. Then, the tour transitions to Tiananmen Square, a space loaded with history and symbolism, followed by a visit to the Forbidden City.

This sprawling palace complex, with its courtyards and halls, is a highlight, and the guide’s narration makes the 500-year-old buildings come alive. Walking through the Hall of Great Harmony and the Imperial Garden offers a sense of the grandeur and austerity of imperial life.

In the evening, a leisure walk around the Shichahai Scenic Resort allows for a relaxed end to Day 1, exploring hutongs and local shops.

Day 2: The Great Wall & Summer Palace

Early on Day 2, you’re off to the Mutianyu section of the Great Wall, known for its less crowded but equally impressive scenery. The cable car ride up is smooth, and the chance to walk along the ancient battlements offers some of the best views of the surrounding landscape. The guide will share stories about the Wall’s strategic importance and historical anecdotes.

Post-great wall, a local village restaurant provides a hearty lunch with a taste of Northeastern Chinese cuisine, an unexpected but delightful experience. Then, a drive past the Olympic Stadiums gives a quick glimpse of modern China’s achievements.

The afternoon features the Summer Palace, a vast royal garden with serene lakes, pavilions, and bridges. Although only an hour is allocated here, the guide’s stories about Empress Cixi and the architecture help you appreciate the site’s significance.

Day 3: Guilin Arrival and Scenic Highlights

A morning flight takes you from Beijing to Guilin, the city famous for its knifelike limestone karst peaks. The first stop is Elephant Trunk Hill, which looks like an elephant drinking from the Li River. The walk to the top reveals panoramic views of Guilin and the river, and the Ming Dynasty Puxian Tower offers a scenic vantage point.

Next, the Yunfeng Temple offers another historic site with ties to Buddhist monk Jianzhen, adding a spiritual dimension to your exploration. The highlights continue with a visit to the Reed Flute Cave — a natural wonder with spectacular stalactites, stalagmites, and cave inscriptions from the Tang Dynasty. Travelers often find the poetry and travelogues on the walls a charming touch, adding to the cave’s mystique.

Day 4: The Iconic Li River Cruise and Yangshuo

The cruise down the Li River from Guilin to Yangshuo is undoubtedly a major highlight. Expect stunning karst peaks, traditional boats, and misty reflections. The legendary stories about the formations and the scenery make it more than just a boat ride — it’s a visual feast and cultural lesson rolled into one.

Upon arriving in Yangshuo, a walk along West Street offers shops, cafes, and art galleries, giving you a taste of local life and crafts. The afternoon continues along the Ten-Mile Gallery, a scenic country road lined with hills, fields, and small villages, making you feel like you’re walking through a Chinese painting.

Stops at the Moon Hill and the Big Banyan Tree add more scenic charm, with stories of love and history that enrich the experience. The Butterfly Spring Park and scenic spots provide photo opportunities and a sense of wilderness untouched by urbanization.

Day 5: Shanghai’s Dynamic Cityscape

A flight to Shanghai marks a shift from scenic landscapes to a bustling metropolis. The Shanghai Museum immerses you in Chinese art, ceramics, and calligraphy, with a collection that’s both diverse and well-curated. The Jade Buddha Temple offers a peaceful contrast, with its striking white jade statues.

The afternoon is dedicated to Yuyuan Garden, a Ming-era garden with pavilions, rockeries, and traditional architecture. Nearby, the Old City God Temple and local snack stalls show Shanghai’s more authentic, everyday side.

The Bund provides a quintessential Shanghai skyline view, with the soaring silhouettes of the Oriental Pearl Tower, Shanghai Tower, and other skyscrapers. Walking along the riverwalk gives fantastic photo opportunities.

Next, the French Concession reveals the city’s colonial past, with narrow alleys, boutique cafes, and art galleries. Lastly, a visit to Xintiandi, with its renovated Shikumen houses turned entertainment districts, wraps up your urban exploration in style.

Practical Considerations & Value

This tour is priced at around $2,110.77 per person, which includes the flights, entrance fees, cruise tickets, private guides, and transportation. The value is particularly good considering the all-inclusive nature — you don’t have to worry about extra costs for major attractions, and the private guides ensure personalized insights.

The choice of accommodations (offered as an option) and flexible end points provide some customization, making it easier to tailor to your travel style. The daily breakfast option adds convenience and helps start your days energized.

However, the fast pace can be tiring, especially with multiple flights and long days. If you prefer more time at each site or a slower travel rhythm, this might feel a bit rushed.

The guides, noted for their knowledge, help make history and culture accessible, and travelers consistently mention how enthusiastic and informative they are. Several reviews highlight the stunning views from various sites, making this a visually rewarding trip.

This 6-day private tour suits travelers who want to see China’s most iconic landmarks with minimal planning, guided by knowledgeable locals. It’s ideal if you’re comfortable with a busy schedule and want a rundown without sacrificing convenience.

Perfect for first-time visitors eager to tick off the big sights while enjoying private transport and expert commentary. It’s also suitable for those who appreciate scenic landscapes paired with cultural stories, and who value a balanced mix of history, scenery, and city life.

If you’re after an authentic, organized experience that covers the essentials and offers some scenic surprises along the way, this tour delivers.

Is airport pickup and drop-off included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Xi’an, Beijing, Guilin, and Shanghai, along with airport transfers.

Are flights between cities included?
Absolutely. The tour covers economy class plane tickets from Xi’an to Beijing, Beijing to Guilin, and Guilin to Shanghai.

What attractions are visited on the tour?
You’ll see landmarks like the Temple of Heaven, Forbidden City, Great Wall at Mutianyu, Elephant Trunk Hill, Reed Flute Cave, Li River cruise, Yuyuan Garden, and Shanghai’s skyline, among others.

Can I customize the end point of the tour?
Yes, the tour offers the option to end in Shanghai, Beijing, or return to Xi’an, providing some flexibility.

Is accommodation included?
Accommodation is optional, and you can choose to upgrade to 4-star hotels with daily breakfast.

What should I pack?
Bring comfortable walking shoes, layers for varying weather, and any personal essentials. The tour covers outdoor and indoor sites, so adaptability helps.

This 6-day China highlights tour offers a comprehensive, well-organized experience, perfect for travelers who want to see the essentials without the stress of logistics. The combination of private guides, scenic landscapes, and cultural landmarks ensures you’ll gain an authentic impression of China’s diverse appeal.

While the pace is brisk, the value for money and quality of sites visited make it worthwhile. Expect stunning views, engaging stories, and personalized attention — all wrapped into a convenient package that simplifies your travel planning.

Whether you’re a history buff, a scenery lover, or simply eager to tick off the major sights, this tour can be a fantastic way to start your China adventure. It’s best suited for those who appreciate guided insights and a structured itinerary, ensuring you get the most out of each destination without feeling overwhelmed.

Experience China’s best in just six days — a journey packed with eye-opening sights, expert guides, and the kind of memories that make your trip truly special.