China 101: Walls, Warriors, City Lights & Waterways

Beijing · Xi’an · Shanghai · Guilin · Yangshuo

About This Trip

From imperial capitals to futuristic skylines and poetic landscapes, this 12-day journey reveals China through its most iconic contrasts. You’ll walk the quiet courtyards of Beijing’s hutongs, stand before the Terracotta Army in Xi’an, rise above the clouds atop Shanghai Tower, and drift along the misty rivers of Guilin and Yangshuo. Every destination offers a different window into China’s history, culture, food, and daily rhythms.

Designed for first-time visitors and curious explorers alike, this itinerary blends world-famous landmarks with immersive local experiences — sunrise hikes, tea ceremonies, water towns, cooking classes, and vibrant night scenes. Moving seamlessly by high-speed train and plane, you’ll see how ancient traditions and modern life coexist across China’s vast landscapes.

What’s the Highlight – Travel like a local!

★ Walk through 3,000 years of history — from Beijing’s Forbidden City and Tian’anmen Square to Xi’an’s Terracotta Warriors and ancient city walls, discovering the dynasties that shaped China’s cultural identity.

★ Witness China’s modern rise — feel the energy of Shanghai on Nanjing Road, ascend the Shanghai Tower for sunset views, and cruise The Bund where old-world façades meet a futuristic skyline.

★ Immerse in landscapes straight from Chinese paintings — sunrise atop Xianggong Mountain, bamboo rafting on the Li River, and the sweeping beauty of the Longji Rice Terraces carved into the mountains.

★ Experience local culture up close — a traditional tea ceremony in Guilin, a hands-on cooking class in Yangshuo, a timeless Tang Dynasty Cultural Show in Xi'an, a chill rickshaw ride strolling through historic hutongs, and an evening exploration to the vibrant local markets and food streets.

Itinerary

Day 01:Beijing

➤AM: Arrive in Beijing, China’s vibrant capital.
➤PM: Begin your journey at Drum Tower Square, once the timekeeping heart of the city, before a leisurely rickshaw ride through the hutongs around Shicha Lake, where winding alleyways reveal the rhythm of traditional Beijing life.
➤EVE: Gather for a welcome dinner featuring Peking Roast Duck, crispy skin and all.

Day 02:Beijing

➤AM: Visit the Temple of Heaven, where emperors once prayed for good harvests. Today, the vast park comes alive each morning with locals practicing tai chi, dancing, and calligraphy—join in the energy of daily life.
➤PM: Walk across Tian’anmen Square, the world’s largest public square, before stepping into the legendary Forbidden City, home to 24 emperors across five centuries. End the day with a short climb up Jingshan Park for a stunning sunset view over the palace rooftops.
➤EVE: Free time to explore Beijing at your own pace.

Day 03:Beijing

➤AM: Explore the Great Wall at Mutianyu, one of the best-preserved sections with fewer crowds and breathtaking mountain views. Ride the cable car up, walk along the ancient stones, and for fun, take a toboggan slide back down.
➤ Noon: Group lunch
➤ PM: Photo stop at the iconic Bird’s Nest Olympic Stadium (Bird’s Nest and Water Cube).
➤ Late PM: Local silk shop visit nd shopping (Optional)

Day 04:Beijing-Xi'an

➤AM: Travel to Xi’an by high-speed train, a smooth and scenic ride across the heart of China.
➤PM: Visit the elegant Big Wild Goose Pagoda, a landmark of Tang dynasty Buddhism, and then stroll through Datang Everbright City, a lively district that recreates the splendor of Tang-era Chang’an with lights, street performances, and food.
➤EVE: Tang Dynasty Cultural Show (With Royal Banquet)

Day 05:Xi'an

➤AM: Stand face to face with the legendary Terracotta Warriors, an underground army built to guard China’s first emperor in the afterlife.
➤PM: Relax at Huaqing Hot Springs, once a royal retreat with a tragic love story, before heading to the bustling Muslim Quarter, where sizzling street food and vibrant market stalls fill the air with energy.
➤EVE: Free evening

Day 06:Xi'an-Shanghai

➤AM: Fly to Shanghai, China’s modern metropolis.
➤EVE: Wander down Nanjing Road, sample local Benbang cuisine, and finish the evening at The Bund with a night cruise, where colonial architecture meets the dazzling skyline of Pudong.

Day 07:Shanghai

➤AM: Step into the classical beauty of Yu Garden, a Ming dynasty garden of ponds, rockeries, and pavilions, then visit the serene Jade Buddha Temple, home to two exquisite jade Buddha statues.
➤Noon: Group lunch (Xiaolongbao dumplings)
➤PM: Ascend the Shanghai Tower, the tallest building in China, to watch the sun set over the futuristic cityscape.
➤EVE: Free evening

Day 08:Shanghai

➤AM: Day trip to Zhujiajiao Water Town, where arched bridges, canals, and stone streets evoke the charm of “China’s Venice.”
➤PM: Free time back in Shanghai to shop, relax, or discover hidden cafés.

Day 09:Shanghai-Guilin

➤AM: Fly to Guilin, famous for its limestone peaks and serene rivers.
➤PM: Experience a traditional Chinese tea ceremony, learning the art and meaning of tea in local culture.
➤EVE: Group dinner with local cuisine

Day 10:Guilin-Yangshuo

➤AM: Visit the breathtaking Longji Rice Terraces, fields carved into the mountainside like a green staircase to the sky. Meet local ethnic minority villagers and learn about their farming traditions.
➤PM: Travel to Yangshuo, a laid-back riverside town surrounded by dramatic karst peaks.
➤EVE: Free time at West Street, and enjoy a foot massage (optional)

Day 11:Yangshuo

➤Early AM: Hike up Xianggong Mountain for sunrise, one of the most iconic views of the Li River winding among misty peaks.
➤AM: Float down the Li River on a bamboo raft, gliding through scenery straight out of a Chinese painting.
➤PM: Free time in Yangshuo with optional cycling through the countryside.
➤Late PM: Take part in a Yangshuo cooking class, learning local recipes to bring home. Farewell Dinner

Day 12:Guilin-Home

➤AM/PM: Fly home, taking with you memories of China’s ancient wonders, cultural treasures, and modern marvels!
Optional Extension: For those wishing to continue on to Yunnan or Guizhou to experience more stunning nature and authentic ethnic culture, we can help arrange a side tour at an additional cost. Just let us know!

Details

Inclusion

Ground transportation, including airport transfers
Domestic transportation, as noted in the itinerary
Accommodation based on double occupancy as noted in the itinerary (Local 4-star Hotel)
All admission fees and activity expenses, as noted in the itinerary
Meals as noted in the itinerary with complimentary drinking water
Services of an English-speaking guide and coordinator

Exclusion

International flights and relevant taxes
Chinese tourist visa. Please check out the latest policy before you start your journey
Travel and medical insurance
Meals, apart from those included in the itinerary, and alcohol
Expenses of a personal nature
Excursions and activities not included in the itinerary

Trip Cost

Price: NZD 4,290 per person (approx. USD 2,490 per person)
• Based on twin‑share accommodation

Early‑Bird Discount
• Sign up early and secure your spot – save NZD 200!
• Registration closes 120 days (≈4 months) before departure.

Bring‑a‑Friend Discount
• Bring a friend and share the adventure – save NZD 100 together!

Combined Savings
• Combine both offers for a total saving of NZD 300!

Upcoming Tour Dates for 2026

• March 28 – April 8, 2026 (Completed)

• May 9 – May 20, 2026 (Completed)

• June 6 – June 17, 2026 (Completed)

• September 5 – September 16, 2026 (Full)

• December 27, 2026 – January 8, 2027 (Register Your Interest)

Accommodation

We will stay in local 4-star hotels, carefully selected for their comfort, authenticity, and great locations. Here are some examples of the hotels you can expect on this tour.

Mercure Beijing Downtown

Mercure Beijing Downtown is well located on Xi Da Wang Road in Central Business District (CBD) area of Chaoyang District, which is between East 3rd Ring Road and East 4th Ring Road. With easy access to subway line 1, 7 and line 14, it takes about 40 minutes to drive to Beijing Capital International Airport and Beijing railway station.

Mercure Xi'an Dazhai Road

Mercure Xi’an Dazhai Road is conveniently located in the heart of Xi’an Yanta District’s high-tech economic development, adjacent to the Yanping Gate of Metro Line 3 and the Jinguang Gate of Metro Line 5, with direct access to the Bell and Drum Tower, the Big Wild Goose Pagoda, the Datang City of Night and other parts of the city.

Holiday Inn Express Shanghai Zhenping

Holiday Inn Express Shanghai Zhenping is located in Putuo District,right in the heart of shanghai West Railway Station transportation hub.The hotel is further amidst the city’s most expansive shopping and business areas,taking in Zhongshan Park,Jing’an Temple,North Sihuan Road,Changshou Road and nearby Global Harbor Shopping Mall.

Guilin Bravo Hotel

Guilin Bravo Hotel is located in the scenic area of two rivers and four lakes in Guilin city with visual lethality, surrounded by ancient trees, stone inscriptions, pavilions and clear water. It’s about 10 minutes to reach the downtown business district, which is an ideal choice for business travel and leisure.

Ramada Resort Guilin Yangshuo (Yulong River Branch)

The Ramada Resort Guilin Yangshuo (Yulong River Branch) provides a great place for travelers to relax after a busy day. The hotel is approximately 36km away from Yangshuo Railway Station. There is no shortage of things to see in the area, with the Yansha Hot Air Balloon Flight, Phoenix Landscape Shangjing Travel and Residence Resort and Yancun Village all nearby.

Holiday Inn Express Kunming West (Local 4-star)

The Holiday Inn Express Kunming West offers a pleasant stay in Kunming for those traveling for business or leisure. The closest major public transportation, Liangjiahe Metro Station, is only 500m away. The nearby area boasts an abundance of attractions including Kunming Indoor Stadium, Aegean Sea and Shangrila-Dynamic Yunnan.

Next Steps

Please email info@wanderchina.co to secure your spot on this tour. If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out to us via email before officially signing up.
When you’re ready to book, a $500 NZD per person booking fee is required to reserve your arrangements. This fee will be applied toward your total trip cost and deducted from your final balance.
Your balance payment will be due 60 days prior to your departure.
If you’d like to customize a private pre or post trip to explore more of China, please let us know and we’d be happy to work with you on that!

Is this tour guaranteed to run?

A minimum of six travellers is required for this journey to operate (maximum group size: 12). The departure will be confirmed no later than 60 days prior to the scheduled departure date.
If the minimum number of travellers is not reached, Wander China reserves the right to cancel or postpone the departure. In this event, all deposits paid to Wander China will be refunded in full.
Wander China also reserves the right to cancel or postpone any departure, including confirmed departures, due to circumstances beyond our reasonable control, such as travel restrictions, natural disasters, political instability, or other unforeseen events. In such cases, travellers will receive a full refund of all payments made to Wander China, less any non-refundable costs already incurred on their behalf, where applicable.

Cancelation Policy

If you decide to cancel for other reasons after this time, the following cancellation policy applies:

More than 60 days prior to trip departure:
Deposit will be forfeited
Between 45 – 60 days prior to trip departure:
20% of total tour price will be forfeited
Between 30 – 44 Days:
50% of total tour price will be forfeited
Between 22 – 29 Days:
90% of total tour price will be forfeited
Less than 21 days prior to trip departure:
No refund

By paying the deposit, you accept Wander China Terms and Conditions.

Book the Tour!

Why Wander China

Local Expertise with Experience

We live here, and we’ve traveled far. Our team combines local roots in Yunnan, Guizhou, and Guangxi with years of experience leading international travelers. We are proud of our culture and passionate about sharing it with others. With extensive networks and resources on the ground, we bring a deep understanding of the region’s culture, history, and landscapes, and ensure every journey is thoughtfully curated.

Seamless Communication & Onsite Support

We speak your language—literally and culturally. From the first email to the last day of your trip, we’re here to guide, translate, and support. Our well-trained team ensures seamless coordination and personalized attention, making your trip both safe and memorable.

Committed to Heritage and Sustainability

We believe meaningful travel should give back. That’s why we support local artisans, share stories of living traditions, and take active steps to protect the environment—like picking up litter on mountain trails and choosing low-impact transport whenever possible. We also invite our participants to join us in giving back, fostering a shared commitment to meaningful and sustainable travel.

Flexible for All Kinds of Travelers

Whether you're traveling solo, with friends, family, a school group, or your company team—we offer the flexibility to match your interests and budget. Choose from thoughtfully crafted small-group tours, or let us design something just for you.

Got a wild dream? We'll make it real. Open to ideas? We'll dream it up for you.

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