Six Days Private China Tour to Beijing Xian Shanghai Experience High-speed Train

A Detailed Look at the 6-Day Private China Tour to Beijing, Xian, and Shanghai

Traveling across China’s most iconic cities in just six days sounds ambitious—and it is. But this private tour manages to pack in a good balance of major landmarks, culture, and comfortable transit, all with the added convenience of a dedicated guide and included high-speed train rides. It’s ideal for those who want to maximize their time and avoid logistical headaches, especially if you’re short on days but long on curiosity.

What we especially like about this experience is how it combines the classic sights—like the Forbidden City and Great Wall—with the modern marvels of Shanghai, all while offering a personal guide who makes the journey both educational and enjoyable. The seamless transportation, including hotel pickups and train tickets, keeps things flowing smoothly, so you can focus on soaking in the sights rather than figuring out logistics.

A potential caveat is the tight schedule, which means some stops might feel rushed, especially if you’re a slow walker or love lingering in every corner. Also, the tour is quite full-on, so travelers who prefer a more relaxed pace might find it a bit intense. That said, it’s a fantastic choice for first-timers eager to tick off the big ones without the hassle of planning every detail themselves.

This tour suits travelers looking for value, efficiency, and a guided experience—perfect for first-time visitors or those with limited time who want a rundown of China’s highlights.

Key Points

• All-inclusive convenience: hotel transfers, train tickets, and some meals mean less planning stress.
• Expert guides: knowledgeable tour leaders bring the history and stories to life.
• Multiple cities in one trip: covering Beijing, Xian, and Shanghai offers a well-rounded experience.
• Authentic cultural experiences: from the Forbidden City to the Terracotta Warriors.
• A mix of history and modernity: ancient sites alongside contemporary cityscapes.
• Good value for the price: considering the transport, entry fees, and guided service, it’s a comprehensive package.

An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

Day 1: Exploring Beijing’s Imperial Heart

The tour kicks off with a morning pickup from your hotel, setting the tone for a well-organized day. Visiting Tiananmen Square immediately immerses you in the scale of China’s political and cultural history. Standing in the world’s largest public square, you’ll get a sense of its significance, even if just from the sheer size alone.

Next is the Forbidden City, where your guide will walk you through the sprawling complex. Expect to spend around 1.5 hours here, exploring the imposing courtyards, ornate halls, and ancient artifacts. The guide explains the Ming and Qing dynasties’ history, adding context that makes these beautiful structures more meaningful.

The Temple of Heaven offers a peaceful contrast—its stunning architecture and serene surroundings are a perfect spot to reflect on the ancient emperors’ prayers for harvests. You’ll appreciate the intricate exterior cladding and the tranquil atmosphere, which stands out amid Beijing’s bustling streets.

The day wraps up with a visit to the Summer Palace, a vast imperial garden with lush pavilions, corridors, and the expansive Kunming Lake. Walking along the Long Corridor and enjoying the views offers a glimpse into imperial leisure. A short stop at a pearl art shop can be interesting for those curious about traditional crafts. In the evening, a choice of performances—Acrobatic show, Peking Opera, or Kungfu Show—offers entertainment and cultural insight, ending the day on a lively note.

Day 2: From Tombs to the Great Wall

The second day begins with a visit to the Ming Tombs, specifically the Changling site where Emperor Zhudi was laid to rest. It’s a quieter, less crowded site that provides insight into imperial burial practices. The guide discusses jade culture, adding depth to your understanding of local crafts.

Next, you’ll head to the Mutianyu Great Wall—a less crowded section known for its stunning views and well-preserved structure. The optional cable car allows you to ascend easily and soak in the panoramic vistas. Here, you’ll have about two hours for a walk, exploring the wall’s winding paths and towers. Many reviewers appreciate the peaceful atmosphere of Mutianyu compared to other sections, making it a highlight.

In the late afternoon, visit Olympic Park to see the iconic Bird’s Nest and Water Cube from outside. It’s a quick stop but offers great photo opportunities against the modern architecture that symbolizes China’s recent achievements.

The evening features a roast duck dinner, a true Beijing culinary experience, where crispy skin and tender meat are the stars. This is often highlighted in reviews as a delicious treat that caps off the day.

Day 3: Transition to Xian

Today is travel-heavy, with a 5-hour high-speed train journey to Xian. The morning starts early with a visit to Muslim Quarter, where you can experience local life and sample street food—food lovers will particularly enjoy this lively, authentic scene.

Arriving in Xian, the highlight is the Big Wild Goose Pagoda, with its impressive architecture and the Great Wild Goose Pagoda Music Fountain, which is quite the spectacle at sunset, with water dancing to music. It’s a joyful, visually striking end to your afternoon before settling into your hotel.

Day 4: Terracotta Army and City Walls

The Terracotta Warriors are undoubtedly the star here—an archaeological marvel. The museum’s size and the craftsmanship of the warriors are awe-inspiring. Our reviewer noted how the site is “football stadium-sized,” which makes the experience feel grand and immersive.

Afterward, you’ll visit Xian’s City Wall, the best-preserved ancient city wall in China. Walking or biking along its ramparts offers panoramic views of the city and a sense of historical defense strategies—an engaging way to see the city from above.

Day 5: Onward to Shanghai

Back on the high-speed train, you’ll travel to Shanghai—a six-hour ride that is surprisingly comfortable and efficient. Upon arrival, a boat cruise on the Huangpu River provides a relaxing way to see the city skyline lit up at night, a favorite among travelers for its picturesque views.

Day 6: Shanghai’s Modern Marvels and Hidden Gems

The final day begins with Yu Garden, a beautiful example of traditional Chinese landscaping and architecture. The gardens are charming and offer great photo opportunities, especially if you want to take home a few souvenirs from nearby bazaars.

Next, Nanjing Road offers a vibrant shopping street experience—whether you’re window-shopping or picking up a few unique items, it’s a lively, bustling area.

The trip culminates with a visit to the Oriental Pearl Tower, where you can stand on the glass-bottomed observation deck and get a sweeping view of Shanghai’s skyline. The tower’s unique design makes it a must-see landmark, and the panoramic view is a fitting finale to your whirlwind trip.

What We Think About the Price and Value

At $1,487 per person, this tour offers a lot of value, especially considering all flights, train rides, entry fees, and guided services included. The convenience of hotel pickup, transportation, and a private guide makes the experience seamless, while the mix of major attractions ensures you get a broad overview of China’s history and modernity.

While it is a fast-paced itinerary, many travelers find it worth the effort for the breadth of sights covered. The inclusion of meals, some of which are regional specialties like Peking Duck, adds to the value—giving you a taste of local cuisine without the hassle of finding restaurants on your own.

Who This Tour Is Best For

This experience is perfect for first-time visitors to China who want a comprehensive introduction with minimal planning. It’s also well-suited to travelers who prefer a guided, all-in-one package that takes care of logistics while providing insights from local experts.

Those with limited time but a keen interest in seeing both the historic and modern sides of China will find this a smart choice. However, if you prefer a slower pace, more free time, or deeper exploration of fewer sites, you might find the schedule a bit rushed.

FAQs

Are hotel pickups and drop-offs included?
Yes, the tour provides hotel pickup and drop-off, making logistics easy for travelers.

Does the tour include train tickets?
Yes, high-speed train tickets between Beijing, Xian, and Shanghai are part of the package, along with transfers.

Are meals included?
Most meals are included—specifically lunches and dinners, including a notable roast duck dinner in Beijing. Some meals are at your expense, like the lunch on the train.

What attractions are covered in Beijing?
You’ll visit Tiananmen Square, the Forbidden City, Temple of Heaven, Summer Palace, Ming Tombs, Great Wall at Mutianyu, and Olympic Park.

Is the tour suitable for vegetarians?
Vegetarian options are available; it’s best to advise at booking.

Can I customize the itinerary?
This is a private tour, so some customization might be possible, but it’s best to confirm with the provider in advance.

How long is the train journey between cities?
The Beijing-Xian journey takes about 5 hours, and the trip to Shanghai takes approximately 6 hours.

What should I expect from the guides?
Guides are knowledgeable and friendly, providing historical context and insights, making the experience informative and engaging.

In Summary

This 6-day private tour offers an efficient, well-organized way to see some of China’s most famous sights, combining ancient landmarks with modern cityscapes. The inclusion of high-speed train travel, hotel transfers, and guided commentary makes it a hassle-free option, especially for first-timers or those short on time.

Travelers who want a rundown, with the comfort of a guided experience, will find this tour a very worthwhile investment. The authentic touches—like the street food in Muslim Quarter and the cultural performances—add flavor to the trip, making it more than just a sightseeing checklist.

For those who appreciate balance—seeing major sites without feeling overwhelmed—this itinerary hits a good note. It’s a practical choice for anyone eager to understand China’s past and present in one memorable journey.