Beijing Xian Nanjing Suzhou Hangzhou Shanghai 12days private tour

Traveling through China’s most iconic cities in just over two weeks sounds ambitious, but this 12-day private tour makes it not only possible but surprisingly rewarding. From the historic walls of Beijing to the vibrant streets of Shanghai, you’re guided through a well-curated itinerary that promises authentic experiences, stunning sights, and a touch of comfort. With private transport, expert guides, and carefully selected attractions, this trip is a fantastic way to see China’s diverse landscapes and cultural treasures, especially if you’re short on time but craving depth.

What really draws us to this tour is the seamless balance between guided visits and free time, which allows you to soak in the atmosphere without feeling overwhelmed. Plus, the inclusion of famous landmarks like the Great Wall, Terracotta Warriors, West Lake, and The Bund ensures you’re hitting all the major highlights. One thing to consider is that while the pace is quite full, the itinerary covers a lot, which can be tiring if you prefer slow mornings. Still, it suits travelers eager to maximize their time and see a broad swath of China’s iconic sites.

This would suit adventurous travelers who want a structured yet immersive experience, with a good mix of cultural history and scenic beauty. It’s ideal for those who appreciate expert guides and private transportation, giving you comfort and flexibility. If you’re after a rundown of China’s old capitals and modern metropolises without the hassle of planning every detail, this tour offers excellent value for the price.

Key Points

• Comprehensive Itinerary: Visits to Beijing, Xi’an, Nanjing, Suzhou, Hangzhou, and Shanghai, covering top sights.
• Balanced Pace: Full days of sightseeing balanced with optional meals and free time.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides enhance understanding of each site’s significance.
• Comfort & Convenience: Private, air-conditioned transport and hotel stays with breakfast included.
• Cultural & Scenic Highlights: From the Great Wall to West Lake, the tour offers a blend of history and natural beauty.
• Value for Price: At $2,400 per person, the experience packs many major attractions into a manageable trip.

An In-Depth Look at the 12-Day China Tour

Starting Strong: Beijing’s Historic Marvels

The tour kicks off with a friendly welcome at Beijing Airport, where a guide greets you outside baggage claim and whisks you to your hotel. The first day is free — a good chance to stretch your legs and get your bearings. The following days introduce must-see landmarks: the Mutianyu Great Wall, which is praised for its less crowded, scenic setting, and the Imperial Forbidden City, where your guide can bring the walls and halls alive with stories. The Temple of Heaven adds a spiritual dimension, with its impressive architecture and tranquil grounds.

One highlight is the Peking Duck Banquet, a delicious end to the day that many reviews note as a memorable culinary experience. Travelers have remarked on the guides’ enthusiasm and knowledge, making these sights more engaging than a solo visit.

Xi’an: The Terracotta Army and Cultural Depth

Traveling by bullet train, you’ll reach Xi’an — China’s ancient capital. The Terracotta Warriors are, of course, a highlight, with many reviewers mentioning how the guide’s detailed explanations enriched their understanding of China’s military history. The Great Mosque and Muslim Street add a vibrant local flavor, while the Folk House gives a taste of traditional life.

The Dumpling Banquet Show is often mentioned as a fun, cultural dinner experience, with guests appreciating the lively atmosphere and variety of dumplings. Guides are noted for their friendliness and insights, adding context to the ancient sculptures and bustling markets.

Nanjing, Suzhou, and Hangzhou: The Scenic and Historic Heart

In Nanjing, highlights include Confucius Temple and the Qinhuai River Boat Tour, offering a glimpse of traditional architecture and lively street life. Moving on, Suzhou’s Humble Administrator’s Garden and Tiger Hill showcase China’s celebrated classical gardens and ancient pagodas — some of which are noted for their peaceful beauty and photo opportunities.

Hangzhou’s West Lake is a standout. Known for its poetic scenery, it’s often described as tranquil and picturesque. Many reviewers appreciated the boat ride on the lake, which offered lovely views and a chance to relax amid natural beauty.

Shanghai: The Modern Marvel

The final days focus on Shanghai, starting with a visit to the Shanghai Tower, where panoramic city views impress even seasoned travelers. The iconic The Bund lets you stroll beside colonial-era architecture along the Huangpu River, with many reviewers mentioning the vibrant energy and impressive skyline. The Jade Buddha Temple and Nanjing Road add cultural and shopping highlights, respectively.

The trip wraps up with a visit to Tianzifang, a lively alley filled with boutiques, cafes, and art studios, perfect for soaking in Shanghai’s creative vibe.

Transportation & Logistics

Throughout the tour, private air-conditioned vehicles make traveling between cities comfortable, often a relief after busy sightseeing days. The use of bullet trains between Beijing and Xi’an, and other internal transport, helps maximize time and minimizes fatigue. Hotels with breakfast included provide a good start each day, though optional meals like dinners are available for those who want an authentic culinary experience.

Authentic Experiences & Guides

Feedback from travelers highlights the guides’ knowledge and enthusiasm. Many describe guides as approachable and skilled at sharing stories that make historical sites come alive. For instance, one reviewer mentioned that their guide’s storytelling about the Great Wall added depth to the visit, making it more than just another sightseeing stop.

The Value of the Tour

At $2,400 per person, this package offers a lot — covering eight major destinations, private transportation, hotel stays, and most entrance fees. For travelers eager to see key highlights with minimal hassle and maximum convenience, this price is quite competitive. The inclusion of train and air tickets reduces the need for separate bookings, saving travelers both time and stress.

Considerations

While the itinerary is packed with sights, it can be tiring, especially on long days. Some reviews mention that the schedule moves quickly, so travelers should be prepared for early mornings and full days. Plus, because the tour is private, it caters best to those who prefer a tailored experience and value the comfort of private transport.

The Sum Up

This 12-day private tour offers an excellent way to see China’s most iconic sites without the hassle of planning each detail. It balances historical landmarks, scenic beauty, and cultural experiences with the convenience of private transportation and guided commentary. The inclusion of well-known attractions like the Great Wall, Terracotta Warriors, West Lake, and The Bund ensures you’ll come away with a comprehensive understanding of China’s diversity.

For travelers who want a structured, comprehensive experience that covers the major highlights, this tour provides notable value. The guides’ enthusiasm and knowledge bring each site to life, making the sights more meaningful. It’s especially suitable for those who appreciate comfort, expert insights, and efficient travel between cities.

If you’re looking for a trip that balances sightseeing with culture, offers good value, and minimizes logistical stress, this tour is a compelling choice. Just be prepared for busy days and a fast-paced itinerary — but with so much to see, that’s part of the adventure.

FAQ

Is this a group or private tour?
This is a private tour, meaning only your group will participate, allowing for a more customized experience and flexible scheduling.

Are airport transfers included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup at Beijing Airport, and transportation between all destinations is private and air-conditioned.

What’s the price per person?
The cost is $2,400.00, which covers most entrance tickets, train and air tickets, hotel stays with breakfast, and private transportation.

Are meals included?
Breakfast is included daily, and optional lunch and dinner are available for purchase during the tour, with some special meals like Peking Duck and dumpling banquets highlighted.

How long are the sightseeing days?
Most days involve around 4 to 6 hours of sightseeing, with some days possibly longer depending on site visits and travel time.

Is hotel accommodation included?
Yes, hotel stays with breakfast are part of the package, offering comfort and convenience after busy days.

What should I pack?
Prepare for a mix of outdoor sightseeing and indoor visits. Comfortable walking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are advised, especially for sites like the Great Wall and gardens.

How flexible is the itinerary?
Since it’s a private tour, guides can sometimes customize the schedule within reason, but the overall structure follows the planned sites.

Are entrance tickets included?
Yes, most entrance tickets to major attractions are included in the price.

What kind of guides will I have?
Guides are English-speaking, knowledgeable, and enthusiastic about sharing insights into each site’s significance. Reviewers often praise their storytelling abilities and friendliness.

This 12-day private tour offers a well-rounded, immersive introduction to China’s highlights. It’s a practical, engaging, and value-packed option for travelers eager to see the best of China with expert guidance.