10-Day Private tour to Chengdu, Chongqing,Yangtze River Cruise and Shanghai

Exploring China in 10 Days: A Balanced Look at the Chengdu, Chongqing, Yangtze River, and Shanghai Tour

Planning a trip that covers some of China’s most iconic destinations can feel overwhelming. This 10-day private tour offers a thoughtfully curated itinerary, taking you from the adorable pandas of Chengdu to the dramatic gorges of the Yangtze River, ending in the bustling metropolis of Shanghai. It’s perfect for travelers who want a mix of cultural insights, natural wonders, and city life—all wrapped into one streamlined experience.

What we love about this tour is the way it balances guided sightseeing with some free moments to soak in the local atmosphere. Plus, it includes private transportation, entrance tickets, and first-class bullet train tickets, making logistics feel smooth and stress-free.

However, a word of caution: with such packed days, you’ll need to be ready for early mornings and some long travel stretches—especially during the multi-leg transfers between cities. But if you’re eager to maximize a short timeframe, this tour does a solid job of hitting the highlights.

This experience is best suited for travelers who crave authentic cultural encounters, want to witness China’s natural beauty, and enjoy the convenience of a well-organized itinerary. It’s especially good for those who prefer private tours over group travel, ensuring a personalized experience.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary covering major Chinese highlights, from pandas to the Three Gorges Dam.
• Private transportation and guides for a smoother, more personalized experience.
• Includes entrance tickets and first-class train tickets, providing good value for convenience.
• Diverse activities, from cultural visits to scenic natural sites, offering a well-rounded trip.
• Long travel days require early starts and patience but maximize sightseeing.
• Authentic local experiences like Chengdu tea parks and Chongqing hotpot.

In-Depth Review of the 10-Day Private Tour in China

Starting in Chengdu: Pandas, Parks, and Old Streets

Your journey begins in Chengdu, often lauded as the “Capital of Leisure” for good reason. The first day is packed with visits to Chengdu Panda Base and the Giant Panda Breeding Research Base. We loved the way this experience combines educational insight with adorable animal sightings. Guides often share fascinating facts, like how over 100 pandas have been born at the base since 1987, which adds a sense of conservation achievement.

Most reviews mention the careful habitat recreations—it’s a joy to see pandas munching and playing in environments designed to mimic their natural habitat. The Red Pandas are also a delightful surprise, often less seen but equally charming. Expect to spend around two hours here, and bring your camera—these pandas are as photogenic as they come.

Next, the tour takes you to Renmin Park, a perfect spot to experience local Chengdu life. Here, locals gather for tea, chess, and socializing, which offers a glimpse into the “slow life” that defines much of Chengdu’s charm. It’s a relaxing break and a chance to observe genuine daily routines, especially if you’re into culture.

A visit to Jinli Pedestrian Street follows, where the lively street scene offers a taste of traditional Sichuan snacks, folk performances, and artsy crafts. Reviewers often mention the delicious local treats like spicy skewers and fragrant tea, making it a favorite for food lovers. The street atmosphere is lively but not overwhelming, perfect for a relaxed stroll.

Day 2: From Chengdu to Leshan and then Chongqing

The highlight here is the Leshan Giant Buddha, a marvel carved into the cliffs dating back to the 8th century. Its sheer size—over 71 meters tall—makes it an unforgettable sight. Visitors frequently remark on the stunning vantage points from stairs carved into the cliff, providing different perspectives of the Buddha and the river below.

The journey continues with a scenic train ride from Chengdu to Chongqing, which takes about 1.5 hours in first-class bullet train comfort. This is a real time-saver and offers a glimpse of China’s modern rail infrastructure. Many travelers appreciate the smooth, fast transfer that allows more time in Chongqing itself.

Once in Chongqing, you’ll have a short drive to your hotel—an efficient way to settle in. Be prepared for a city with a reputation for spicy hotpot, which is included for lunch. Some reviews note the hot, fiery flavors that challenge even seasoned spice lovers, but also praise them for their flavor and authenticity.

Day 3: Wulong’s Spectacular Karst Landforms

Wulong County is a highlight for nature fans. The Wulong Karst Geological Park is famous for its majestic stone bridges, caves, and gorges. The Three Natural Bridges are especially breathtaking, often described as sculpted by divine hands. The dramatic arches are not just visual spectacles but also key filming locations for movies like Transformers.

Visitors rave about the Furong Cave and Fairy Mountain, which add to the sense of being in a natural wonderland. The Longshuixia Gap offers an exhilarating walk with dizzying views—just be prepared for some walking and possibly some narrow pathways.

In the afternoon, the Qinglong Bridge staging post, built during the Tang Dynasty, adds a historical touch to the natural scenery. Many appreciate this blend—seeing ancient structures in a setting of raw natural beauty.

Day 4: Chongqing’s City Highlights and Hot Pot

Back in Chongqing, the city tour features significant landmarks like the People’s Assembly Hall and the E’ling Park, which offers sweeping views of the city and river. The Stilwell Museum provides insight into the city’s wartime history, with guides often sharing stories that bring the past alive.

Ciqikou Old Town is a favorite for those interested in local folklore, traditional crafts, and street food. The lively atmosphere and traditional architecture give a sense of old Chongqing, and reviewers frequently mention the authentic hot pot lunch, which is spicy, flavorful, and a must-try.

Days 5-7: The River Journey – Wulong to the Three Gorges

The cruise along the Yangtze River is a central feature of this tour. The Fengdu Jade Emperor Scenic Spot is a peculiar site built along the mountainside, resembling the figure of the Jade Emperor—many find it both amusing and intriguing.

As the cruise enters the Qutang Gorge and Wu Gorge, the scenery becomes more dramatic—sharp cliffs, misty peaks, and narrow passes. The Shennv Stream adds a touch of serenity, with boat rides offering close-up views of moss-covered rocks and hanging coffins, echoing a sense of mystery and ancient life.

The Three Gorges Dam is an engineering marvel, and many guests find the visit to be both impressive and educational. The cruise provides opportunities for relaxation, sightseeing, and onboard activities, including the Captain’s Welcome Party, which adds a social element to the journey.

Days 8-10: From Yichang to Shanghai – Urban Spectacles and Water Town Charm

Disembarking at Yichang, the tour includes a quick exploration of the city before your flight to Shanghai. In Shanghai, the itinerary is packed with must-see sights such as the Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Hall, Yu Garden, and Yuyuan Old Street. Reviewers love the panoramic views from the Shanghai World Financial Center, describing it as a “breathtaking” experience.

The visit to Zhujiajiao Water Town feels like a quiet escape, with picturesque canals, ancient bridges, and traditional houses. Many travelers find it a charming contrast to the bustling city center. The Jade Buddha Temple provides a spiritual touch, with its serene atmosphere and beautiful statues.

Finally, the tour wraps up with a stroll through Tianzifang’s art-filled alleys, perfect for picking up souvenirs and soaking in local creativity. The entire Shanghai experience is described as vibrant and diverse, blending modern skyscrapers with traditional alleys.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

This 10-day adventure offers an excellent balance of natural beauty, cultural insights, and urban exploration. It suits travelers who want a comprehensive introduction to China without the hassle of planning each detail. The private guides and transportation make the experience smooth and tailored, especially beneficial for first-time visitors.

If you’re interested in China’s iconic sights, love trying local food, and prefer a flexible, well-organized itinerary, this tour is a fantastic choice. The inclusion of first-class train tickets and entrance fees adds value, ensuring you spend less time worrying about logistics and more time enjoying the sights.

However, be prepared for early mornings and some long travel stretches—the itinerary is ambitious and requires energy and flexibility. For those who enjoy immersive experiences with a mix of history, nature, and city life, this tour delivers an engaging, memorable journey.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for all age groups?
Yes, most travelers can participate, but younger children or older adults should consider their stamina for early mornings and long days.

Are meals included?
Lunch is included, and some dinners are optional—specifically, the hot pot in Chongqing. Breakfasts are optional and not included in the price.

How are the transportation arrangements?
You’ll travel in air-conditioned private vehicles, which ensures comfort and flexibility. The tour also includes bullet train tickets for Chengdu to Chongqing and a flight from Yichang to Shanghai.

What attractions are covered?
Major sites include Chengdu Panda Base, Leshan Giant Buddha, Wulong Karst, Chongqing city landmarks, Fengdu Scenic Spot, the Three Gorges, and Shanghai’s top sights.

Are entrance tickets included?
Yes, all entrance tickets for the listed attractions are included, making it easier to budget and avoid surprises.

Can I customize the itinerary?
This tour is private, so you can request modifications or additional days for an even more personalized experience.

What language support is available?
Guides are fluent in English and Chinese, ensuring clear communication throughout the trip.

Is there free time during the tour?
Yes, specific stops like Jinli Street, Yuyuan Market, and Tianzifang allow for free exploration and shopping.

What is the overall pace of the tour?
The schedule is quite full, with early starts and busy days, appealing to active travelers who want to see a lot in a short period.

To sum it up, this 10-day private tour offers a carefully curated mix of culture, natural beauty, and urban excitement. It’s ideal for those eager to experience China’s highlights with the convenience of private guides, transportation, and all key tickets pre-arranged. While it demands energy and flexibility, the memories created—adorable pandas, stunning gorges, and vibrant cityscapes—are truly worth the effort for any traveler looking for a comprehensive taste of China.