5-Day Private Tour from Shanghai to Chengdu and Mount Emei

This 5-day private tour offers a smooth and immersive way to experience some of China’s most iconic sights—beginning in Shanghai, flying to Chengdu, and concluding with a full-day adventure on Mount Emei. It’s a well-rounded itinerary that balances cultural exploration, natural beauty, and local flavors, all curated with a private guide and comfortable transportation. From skyscraper vistas to ancient temples and giant pandas, this trip promises a variety of memorable experiences.

What we particularly love about this tour is its focus on authentic, immersive moments—like wandering through the historic Yu Garden or seeing pandas in their natural-like habitat. Plus, the inclusion of key landmarks such as the Shanghai Urban Planning Hall and the Leshan Giant Buddha makes this a practical choice for travelers craving both sightseeing and cultural insights.

A possible consideration is the fast-paced schedule, especially with flights and long drives included—so if you prefer a more leisurely, less hectic pace, some adjustments might be needed. However, for those eager to maximize their time and see a lot in a short period, this tour hits the sweet spot.

This experience suits travelers who want a guided, all-in-one introduction to China’s urban and natural wonders without the hassle of planning every detail themselves. It’s ideal for first-timers or those wanting a comprehensive, hassle-free trip that mixes cultural sights, wildlife encounters, and stunning mountain scenery.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Experience: Entrance fees, a flight from Shanghai to Chengdu, private transportation, and some meals are covered, offering good value.
• Diverse Highlights: From the towering Shanghai World Financial Center to the tranquil Chengdu Panda Base and majestic Mount Emei.
• Comfort & Convenience: Private guides, air-conditioned vehicles, and flexible meeting points make logistics simple.
• Authentic Encounters: Visit historical sites, bustling markets, and interact with pandas—genuine moments that enrich your trip.
• Time-Effective: The itinerary is packed, so expect a busy schedule but with guided support to keep things flowing smoothly.
• Authentic Insights: Guides are praised for their knowledge, making complex histories and cultural nuances accessible.

A Deep Dive into the 5-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Shanghai’s Modern Marvels & Old Charm

The tour kicks off in Shanghai with a pick-up from your hotel around 9:00 am, setting a leisurely yet efficient tone. Your first stop is the Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Hall, where high-tech displays and miniatures illustrate the city’s impressive growth. We found this to be a particularly enlightening start, as it gives you a quick but rundown of Shanghai’s transformation—from past to future projections.

Next, wandering through the Yu Garden feels like stepping into a different world—serene, intricate, and full of story. The delicate architecture and the jade “Yu Ling Long” stone are just some highlights. Afterwards, strolling Yuyuan Old Street offers a lively contrast, with stalls selling local snacks, souvenirs, and traditional crafts. Reviewers have noted how this area is lively but can get crowded, so early visits are recommended.

The visit to the Shanghai World Financial Center on the 100th floor offers a jaw-dropping panorama of the city’s futuristic skyline. It’s a highlight for many, especially for snapping photos of the skyline from China’s fourth tallest structure. The final stop, the iconic Bund, provides a relaxing spot to soak in the riverside views and marvel at the blend of historic and modern architecture.

The day wraps up with free time at Nanjing Road, giving you a chance to explore shopping or relax in your hotel, depending on your energy level. The day’s mix of skyscraper vistas, historic sites, and bustling markets balances the old and new perfectly.

Day 2: From Shanghai’s Old Water Town to Chengdu’s Cultural Heart

On day two, the journey shifts gears. After another hotel pickup, you’ll visit Zhujiajiao Water Town, often called Shanghai’s Venice, with its charming canals, ancient bridges, and traditional architecture. Visitors love wandering Kezhi Garden, the Qing Dynasty Post Office, and Fangsheng Bridge, feeling transported to a quieter, more poetic China.

After lunch, you’ll head to the Jade Buddha Temple—an active Buddhist site built in 1882, famous for its serene white jade Buddha statues. The lively yet peaceful atmosphere is a favorite for many, offering insights into local religious practices. Reviewers appreciate how the guide explains the significance of the temple’s history and its ongoing cultural role.

In the afternoon, Tianzifang offers a more artsy, bohemian vibe—think art studios, quirky cafés, and handcrafted souvenirs. It’s a great spot for a relaxed exploration, with many noting how its Shikumen architecture and street art give it a distinctly Shanghai feel.

By evening, you’ll be transferred to Shanghai Pudong Airport for a flight to Chengdu (flight details included), arriving late at night. Travelers pointed out how smooth the airport transfer is, even with a short layover, making the transition between cities seamless.

Day 3: Chengdu’s Pandas and Leisurely Parks

Early morning, your guide will meet you at your hotel to head to the Chengdu Panda Base. This is a highlight for many, especially since the pandas are in a habitat that feels natural and relaxed. Over 80 pandas call this place home, and you can watch them munching bamboo, playing, or snoozing. Reviewers note the base’s efforts in panda conservation and how engaging the staff is in sharing stories about each animal.

Post-panda, a visit to Renmin Park offers a taste of local life—tea houses, elders practicing tai chi, and locals relaxing. Many find this the most authentic experience, as it gives a glimpse into Chengdu’s leisurely lifestyle. Having tea and chatting with locals is often highlighted as a memorable moment.

After lunch, Jinli Pedestrian Street is a lively, colorful spot for wandering among stalls selling local snacks, folk crafts, and entertainment. Visitors love sampling the regional delicacies and watching folk performances, which add vibrancy to the day.

Evening flights take you to Chengdu’s airport, with the ride included in the itinerary. Reviewers appreciate how the transfer is smooth and well-organized, allowing you to maximize your sightseeing time.

Day 4: The Majestic Leshan Buddha & Mount Emei

Day four begins with a scenic drive to Leshan, home of the Leshan Giant Buddha, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This colossal stone statue, carved into a cliff, is still awe-inspiring despite being over a thousand years old. Visitors enjoy viewing it from different angles, especially walking along the stairs carved into the cliff and catching views of the river below. Many mention the impressive scale and the craftsmanship involved.

Lunch is nearby, with options to enjoy local Sichuan cuisine, known for its bold flavors. Afterward, a visit to Baoguo Temple at the foot of Emei Mountain offers a glimpse into Buddhist religious practices and history. The temple’s location, facing sunrise and sunset, adds to its spiritual appeal.

By late afternoon, you’ll be transported to Emei City or at the mountain’s base to rest before the next day’s mountain adventure.

Day 5: Emei Mountain’s Scenic Wonders

The final day promises a full-on mountain experience. You’ll start early, heading to Emei Mountain with a guide and driver. The goal is to reach the Golden Summit via cable car, which provides spectacular views of the sea of clouds, temples, and the giant Buddha statue.

Once at the summit, you’ll have time to soak in the vistas, take photos, and explore the temples. The cable car and shuttle bus system help manage the mountain’s steep terrain, making it accessible without strenuous hikes—though hiking options are still available for those inclined.

Descending, you’ll enjoy a farewell lunch before returning to Chengdu, where your tour concludes with transfer to your hotel or airport.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a comprehensive taste of China’s urban innovation, traditional culture, and natural beauty—all in just five days. The inclusion of flight from Shanghai to Chengdu and private transportation ensures a smooth, hassle-free experience, saving you time and energy to focus on the sights. The guides are praised for their knowledge, often sharing little stories and insights that deepen the experience.

The trips to Panda Base, Leshan Buddha, and Mount Emei are particularly memorable, offering a mix of wildlife, spiritual sites, and breathtaking mountain scenery. The itinerary is jam-packed, which is ideal for travelers eager to see a lot but might be a bit intense for those wanting a more relaxed pace.

Pricing at $1,440 per person, considering the flights, entrance fees, private transportation, and guided commentary, represents good value for the diversity and quality of experiences packed into these five days.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This trip is perfect for first-time visitors to China who want an all-encompassing introduction to its most famous sites. It’s also suited for busy travelers who prefer a guided, structured experience, ensuring they don’t miss key sights. If you’re a wildlife enthusiast, the pandas alone make this tour worthwhile. Culture lovers will appreciate the historic temples and bustling markets, while nature seekers will thrill at the mountain vistas.

However, if leisurely exploration and savoring each moment are your priorities, some days might feel rushed, and you could consider customizing the schedule or choosing fewer destinations.

FAQ

Is this a private tour?
Yes, this is a private tour where only your group participates, allowing for personalized attention and flexibility.

Are the entrance tickets included?
Absolutely, all entrance fees for major sites are covered in the tour price.

What about flights between Shanghai and Chengdu?
The tour includes an economy-class flight, making it convenient and time-efficient to move between the two cities.

How is transportation arranged?
All transportation is private, air-conditioned, and includes transfers between hotels, sites, and airports, simplifying logistics.

Can I add extra days or customize the itinerary?
Yes, additional days can be added, and customization options are available to better fit your preferences.

What is the best time to take this tour?
While not specified, regions like Mount Emei are beautiful year-round, but spring and autumn are generally most comfortable weather-wise.

Is dinner included?
No, dinner is not included in the package, but some meals like lunch are optional or provided, depending on your itinerary preferences.

To sum it up, this 5-day private tour strikes an excellent balance between culture, wildlife, and scenery, all curated with comfort and practicality in mind. It’s a thoughtfully designed package for travelers eager to soak up China’s diverse attractions without the stress of planning, making it a solid choice for those wanting an authentic, memorable journey.