11-Day Small-Group China Tour: Beijing, Xi’an, Guilin, Yangshuo and Shanghai

Exploring China in 11 Days: A Balanced Look at the Small-Group Tour

Traveling through China in just over a week sounds ambitious, but with this well-organized 11-day small-group experience, it’s surprisingly doable—and packed with memorable sights. Led by knowledgeable guides, you’ll visit iconic UNESCO World Heritage Sites like the Great Wall at Mutianyu, the Terracotta Warriors, and the Yu Gardens in Shanghai. This tour also offers a fantastic mix of culture, stunning scenery, and some delicious regional foods.

One of the standout features? The small-group format means more personalized attention and fewer crowds—something many travelers appreciate. The inclusion of flights, entrance fees, accommodations, and some meals makes for an all-in-one package that offers great value, especially considering the comprehensive itinerary. Still, it’s worth noting that the tour doesn’t include gratuities or international flights, so budget those in.

If you love exploring multiple cities with expert guides, enjoy a mix of historical sites and scenic vistas, and want a hassle-free way to see China’s highlights, this tour could be a perfect fit. But if you prefer a more relaxed, in-depth exploration of fewer places, this might feel a bit rushed. Now, let’s break down what makes this trip stand out—and what to keep in mind.

Key Points

Balanced Itinerary: Combines iconic sights like the Great Wall and Terracotta Warriors with cultural experiences and scenic cruises.
Expert Guides: Guides are knowledgeable and passionate, offering insights that enrich your understanding of each site.
Inclusive Price: Covers accommodations, flights, entrance fees, and some meals, providing solid value for a busy travel schedule.
Authentic Experiences: Local family visits, traditional performances, and street markets add a genuine touch.
Comfort & Convenience: Small-group size (max 18 travelers), air-conditioned transport, and a well-structured daily plan.
Limited Shopping: No factory or shopping stop, so your time is focused on sights and culture.

A Detailed Look at the 11-Day China Tour

The First Impression: A Well-Rounded Introduction to Beijing

Starting in Beijing, the tour kicks off with a pickup at the Capital International Airport. Within 30 minutes, you’re whisked to your hotel, giving you some time to settle in or wander the streets on your own before your first guided explorations. The next day is packed with essentials: Tiananmen Square, the Forbidden City, and the Temple of Heaven. Each site offers a slice of imperial grandeur and spiritual significance.

You’ll appreciate the authentic local lunch included, featuring Beijing’s famous Roast Duck—a delicious way to dive into regional flavors. The guides, like Candy, are highlighted for being engaging and attentive, often checking in to ensure the group is comfortable and informed. The acrobatic show in the evening adds a lively finish, showcasing Chinese talent and artistry in a fun, accessible way.

Exploring the Great Wall with a Personal Touch

Day 3 takes you to the Mutianyu Great Wall, widely praised for its scenic beauty and fewer crowds compared to Badaling. The cable car makes the ascent easy, and standing on the wall, stretching into the distance, is a moment you won’t forget. As some reviewers noted, the group-toasting with red wine on the wall is a charming touch that makes the experience feel celebratory.

The afternoon’s Hutong tour via rickshaw is another highlight. It offers a glimpse into Beijing’s traditional alleys and local life, with visits to families that deepen your cultural understanding. Reviewers like Karina mention loving these home visits as a way to connect with everyday China.

Xi’an: Ancient Capital and the Terracotta Army

Flying to Xi’an, the city where China’s imperial past is vividly alive, the focus shifts to the Terracotta Warriors, deemed the “Eighth Wonder of the World.” The museum’s pits display thousands of warriors, and the experience of walking among these life-sized figures is awe-inspiring. Reviewers rave about getting close to the warriors and even making a mini clay figure themselves, giving the day a personal and memorable touch.

The Big Wild Goose Pagoda offers a peaceful contrast, its ancient Buddhist architecture standing as a testament to Xi’an’s spiritual history. The evening’s Tang Dynasty dance show—though seasonal—adds a lively cultural layer, with costumes, music, and dance that transport you back in time.

The Charm of Guilin and the Scenic Li River

Transitioning to Guilin by flight, the scenery shifts from historical marvels to natural beauty. The Reed Flute Cave dazzles with stalactites and stalagmites that look like sculptures, while Elephant Trunk Hill provides iconic photo opportunities—its trunk-shaped formation is instantly recognizable.

Most travelers love the Li River cruise, described as ‘A Hundred Miles Gallery’ for its breathtaking karst peaks and serene waters. The 4.5-hour cruise from Guilin to Yangshuo is leisurely, allowing you to soak in the scenery. Visitors mention how the views are postcard-perfect, and the local villages along the way add to the charm.

In Yangshuo, West Street buzzes with life, offering local snacks and quirky shops. The village visit, including a home stay with villagers, is a standout for many, adding an authentic rural experience that makes the landscape and culture more tangible.

From Yangshuo to Shanghai

A quick flight takes you to Shanghai, China’s bustling metropolis. The tour’s visit to the Shanghai Museum provides a deep dive into Chinese art, while the Yu Gardens offer tranquility amid traditional architecture and lush landscaping. The Bund is a must-see, with colonial-era buildings and skyline views that highlight Shanghai’s international history.

The Huangpu River cruise wraps up the tour beautifully, giving you a different perspective of the city’s past and present. Reviewers mention how the combo of modern skyscrapers and historic sites paints a vivid picture of Shanghai’s transformation.

Practicalities and Value

The tour’s price of about $2,089 per person covers a lot—flights within China, accommodations, entrance fees, meals, and guided commentary. The inclusion of local guides makes a difference, as their insights turn sightseeing into storytelling. The small group size means it doesn’t feel rushed, and personalized attention is often highlighted in reviews.

However, some travelers note that the pace can be lively, and packing in this many sites means you’ll want to come prepared for full days. The tour doesn’t include gratuities or international flights, so budget accordingly.

What Reviewers Say

Based on 89 reviews, the overall rating is a perfect 5.0, with many mentioning the expert guides, especially Candy, and the well-coordinated itinerary. Comments highlight how the local family visits and scenic cruises made the trip stand out. Several reviewers appreciated the good value for money, especially given the inclusion of flights, entrance fees, and some meals.

Some noted the absence of shopping detours as a plus, freeing up more time for cultural and scenic experiences. The hotels received generally positive remarks for comfort and location, contributing to a relaxed trip between busy sightseeing days.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip suits travelers who want a rundown of China without the hassle of planning individual components. It’s ideal for those interested in history, culture, and scenery, with enough comfort and guidance to make it smooth. The small-group format is perfect for travelers who appreciate a more intimate experience and personalized attention.

If you’re after a fast-paced adventure with a good mix of major sights and authentic moments, this tour hits the mark. But if you prefer a leisurely visit to fewer sites, or want more time for in-depth exploration, you might find this itinerary a bit packed.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

This 11-day small-group China tour offers remarkable value for those eager to see multiple highlights with experts by your side. You’ll visit world-famous sites, enjoy scenic river cruises, and take part in cultural activities that bring China’s history and traditions to life.

Travelers who appreciate value-packed trips that cover flights, entrance fees, and accommodations will find this package a smart choice. The guides’ knowledge and the authentic experiences—like local family visits—make for a richer journey.

While it’s a fast-paced itinerary, it’s perfect for travelers who want a broad overview and are comfortable with busy days. For those seeking a culture with less rushing, a more tailored or slower-paced option might suit better.

To sum it up, if your goal is to see China’s most iconic sights with expert guidance and enjoy some genuine local moments along the way, this tour provides a well-balanced, memorable experience—balancing sightseeing, scenery, and cultural insight with good value.

FAQs

Is airport pickup included?
Yes, the guide will meet you at Beijing Capital International Airport after customs and help you with check-in.

What is the group size?
The maximum number of travelers is 18, which helps keep the experience intimate and allows guides to give more personalized attention.

Are flights within China included?
Yes, the tour includes three domestic flights: Beijing to Xi’an, Xi’an to Guilin, and Guilin to Shanghai.

Does the tour include all entrance fees?
Most site entrance fees are included, such as the Great Wall, Terracotta Warriors, and the Summer Palace. Some sites like the Olympic Stadium are not included in the fee.

Are meals included?
The tour offers breakfast throughout, plus five lunches and three dinners, including special regional dishes like Peking Duck and dumplings.

What should I know about the pace?
It’s a full schedule, with busy days visiting multiple sites. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, and be prepared for some early starts.

Can dietary restrictions be accommodated?
Vegetarian options are available, but it’s best to inform the tour provider beforehand.

What is the tour’s cancellation policy?
This experience is non-refundable and cannot be changed once booked, so plan accordingly.

This tour is a fantastic choice for travelers seeking a well-organized, culturally rich introduction to China. It balances iconic sights with authentic moments and offers excellent value—all with the support of knowledgeable guides.