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Li river and hills in the sun, Yangshuo

Great Wall, Dynasties, & Rivers

Active China - Example 13 Day Tour
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Explore China on foot, from the Great Wall to the karst country around Yangshuo. Hike the Jinshanling section, one of the best-preserved original stretches of the wall, with a picnic lunch along the way. In Beijing, tour the Forbidden City, walk the old hutong lanes toward the Lama Temple, and join a tai chi lesson. Travel by bullet train to Xi'an to walk the ancient city wall, see the Terracotta Warriors, and try calligraphy, and to Chengdu for giant pandas, the Leshan Giant Buddha, Taoist Qingcheng Mountain, and the Dujiangyan Irrigation System. Hike between Zhuang and Yao villages in the Longsheng rice terraces and follow a quiet stretch of the Li River to Xingping, crossing by bamboo raft. Bike the Yangshuo countryside, raft the Yulong River, and close with the Impression Liu Sanjie show, staged on the water.
Adventures in China! Guilin Pandas in China! Rice terraces. Adventures in China! Sunrise over the mountains of Yangshuo Li River Hiking Climbing the Great Wall Adventures in China! Aerial View of the Summer Palace in Beijing Longsheng Rice Terraces Adventures in China! Terracotta Warriors Great Wall of China in the sunshine Li River kayaking Beijing Touring Li River Hiking Yulong River Beijing great wall trekking Beijing Touring Rice terraces and mountains in China Li River Hiking Xi'an Calligraphy Li River Yangshuo Cycling Li River kayaking Ping'an Village Longsheng Longsheng Rice Terraces Li River Hiking Beijing great wall trekking Beijing great wall trekking Xi'an Ancient City Wal Xi'an Statue in the Forbidden City, Beijing Terracotta Warriors of Xi'an Panda Panda Panda Li river and hills in the sun, Yangshuo

Highlights

  • Hike a remote and well preserved section of the Great Wall
  • Visit Leshan & the Giant Buddha that sits at the confluence of three rivers
  • View pandas at the Chengdu Panda Breeding Research Center
  • Explore Ping'an Village and the surrounding rice terraces
  • Hike along the Li River to Xingping, crossing by bamboo raft

Activities

Places Visited

  • Asia
  • China
  • Beijing
  • Chengdu
  • Guilin
  • Xi'an
  • Dazhai Village
  • Dongkou
  • Forbidden City
  • Guangxi
  • Hebei Province
  • Jinshanling Section
  • Longsheng
  • Olympic Forest Park
  • Ping'An Village
  • Shaanxi Province
  • Sichuan Province
  • Summer Palace
  • Terracotta Warriors
  • Xingping

Activity Level: Easy Active

Moderately active but not overly strenuous. This level includes activities like casual cycling, yoga, or excursions/activities that typically last 3-5 hours total each day.

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Full Itinerary

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Day 1: Arrive Beijing

Arrive at Beijing's airport, where your guide meets you for the drive of about an hour to your hotel in Beijing. After check-in and a short rest, and if time permits, head out with your guide to Tian'anmen Square. Walk around the square and view the monuments, including Tian'anmen Tower, the National Museum of China, the Great Hall of the People, Chairman Mao Memorial Hall, and the Monument to the People's Heroes.

Day 2: Forbidden City | Beijing Hutong Walk

Start the morning with an hour-long tai chi lesson at your hotel. After breakfast, head out to the Forbidden City, which housed the emperors of the Ming and Qing Dynasties starting in 1420. Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the palace complex is open for the public to explore. After exploring the site, drive to the hutong area to find lunch at a small Yunnan restaurant tucked away near the Bell Tower.

In the afternoon, walk through Beijing's hutongs, the city's old residential lanes. The route may begin in the Houhai area and head east to Nanluoguxiang, ending near the Lama Temple.

This evening, sit down for a dinner of Peking roast duck.

Day 3: Jinshanling Great Wall Hike

Rise early for a drive of about two to three hours to Jinshanling, where the hike begins at the East Gate and heads west toward the main gate. Jinshanling is one of the more remote and best-preserved original portions of the Great Wall and still retains many original features. This relatively isolated section has not been repaired since 1570, and is a great place to explore the wall on foot. Enjoy a picnic lunch during the hike, taking in the views and admiring the impressive accomplishment. End the hike at Dongkou (or Wuyanlou Tower), where you hike back to the road and meet your vehicle to drive back to Beijing.

The hike is moderate to difficult, with some steep climbs and descents on the wall's stairs. The evening is free to explore Beijing and have dinner on your own.

Hiking length: 4 to 5 hours
Hike Distance: 4 to 6 miles / 8 to 10 kilometers
Level: Moderate to difficult, with some steep up and down stairs on the wall

Day 4: Bullet Train to Xi'an | Ancient City Wall

Rise early for the transfer to Beijing West Railway Station and board a first-class bullet train to Xi'an. Your Xi'an guide meets you at the station to begin exploring this historic city. Xi'an served as China's capital under 13 dynasties, including the Western Zhou (11th century to 771 BC) and the Tang (618-907). It was also the starting point of the Silk Road and one of the four largest cities in the world from the 7th to the 10th century.

This afternoon, walk a short section of the 8.5-mile ancient city wall, stopping for views to either side: the old city contained within its walls on one side and the modern city beyond them on the other. If you'd prefer to cycle on the city wall, let your trip planner know.

Xi'an is known for its dumplings, and tonight's dinner is a dumpling meal.

Transfer from Beijing to Xi'an - Approximately 6 hours

Day 5: Terracotta Warriors | Tang Dynasty Art Museum

After breakfast this morning, drive 1.5 hours to the Terracotta Warriors, which are arguably the most significant archaeological excavations of the 20th century. First discovered in 1974 by farmers digging a well, the discovery eventually attracted archaeologists, which led to the largest pottery figurine find in China's history. China's first emperor, Qin Shi Huang, began work on his mausoleum and its figures in 246 BC, at the age of 13. Inside the museum, a short film shows how the warriors were made and how they survived underground for so long.

Drive back to the city for an introduction to the Tang Dynasty, or the 'golden era' of China. Visit the Tang Dynasty Art Museum where you receive a brief introductory lesson in calligraphy. Try your hand at this visual art as you practice writing Chinese characters with a brush and ink. This afternoon, explore the Giant Wild Goose Pagoda. Built during the Tang Dynasty, the Buddhist pagoda is about 1,300 years old and offers an amazing view of Xi'an.

Arrange lunch and dinner on your own today.

Day 6: Bullet Train to Chengdu | Renmin Park

Transfer early this morning to Xi'an Railway Station and board a first-class bullet train to Chengdu East Railway Station. The capital of Sichuan province, Chengdu is known for its relaxed pace of life and long history. After check-in, head to the Broad and Narrow Alleys for lunch on your own, with recommendations from your guide.

In the afternoon, visit Renmin Park to watch locals pass the time over cups of tea and games of mahjong. If you're interested, your guide can teach you how to play.

An old street near your hotel in Chengdu is lined with small restaurants and shops, a convenient place to find dinner on your own.

Transfer from Xi'an to Chengdu - Approximately 4 hours

Day 7: Dujiangyan Irrigation System | Qingcheng Mountain

This morning, drive to Dujiangyan, near Chengdu, to visit the Dujiangyan Irrigation System and Qingcheng Mountain, which together form a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Still in use today, the ancient irrigation system waters about 5,300 square kilometers of land and is credited with earning Sichuan its name as the 'Land of Abundance.' Afterward, hike up Qingcheng Mountain, one of the sacred mountains of Taoism, China's native religion.

Return to Chengdu in the late afternoon to watch a Sichuan opera or face-changing show. Chengdu is known for its hot pot, a good choice for dinner tonight.
 

Day 8: Chengdu Panda Base | Leshan Giant Buddha

Spend the morning at the Chengdu Giant Panda Breeding Research Center, about 6 miles from downtown Chengdu, where the grounds are designed to imitate the pandas' natural habitat for rearing and breeding. Walk past the nursery for baby pandas, the garden for cubs, and the large open areas for adults. With luck, you may spot newborn pandas, which are pink at birth.

Afterward, drive about two hours to Leshan to see the Leshan Giant Buddha, which sits at the confluence of the Min, Qingyi, and Dadu Rivers. Begun in 713 during the Tang Dynasty and finished in 803, the 233-foot statue took more than 90 years to carve and is the largest carved stone Buddha in the world. UNESCO added the site to its World Heritage list in 1996. Drive back to Chengdu after your visit.

Day 9: Fly to Guilin | Longsheng Rice Paddies

Fly to Guilin in the morning. Meet your guide upon arrival and drive 1.5 to 2 hours to the Longsheng scenic area. Store your larger luggage and switch to the Ping'an shuttle for a 40-minute ride to Ping'an Village. Hike 30 minutes uphill to your lodge in Ping'an Village.

Ping'an has traditionally been home to the Zhuang people, the second-largest of China's 56 recognized ethnic groups, and is surrounded by rice terraces built more than 650 years ago. The terraces cover over 16,000 acres and span altitudes between 984 and 3,608 feet, with dark-tiled wooden houses dotted among them. The Yao people also work these paddies and are known for their long hair and heavy earrings. Most people here follow an animist faith that includes ancestor worship.

If time permits, explore the village this afternoon for a look at the local way of life

Day 10: Longsheng Village Hike | Dazhai Rice Terraces

After breakfast, set out on a full-day hike from Ping'an through Zhuang and Yao villages, on a trail that has been developed into a road in some areas. Yao is another major ethnic group in China known for preserving their traditional culture. Stop for a light lunch at a local home or restaurant along the way.

The villages of Tiandouzhai and Dazhai are also surrounded by large areas of rice terraces, and during the farming season, you may see villagers plowing their fields or planting rice shoots. From Dazhai, ride the shuttle bus back to Ping'an Village.

Day 11: Li River Hike | Yangshuo

This morning, drive 1.5 to 2 hours to Yangdi Village to start a gentle hike along a more isolated stretch of the Li River. Take bamboo rafts or local ferries a few times to cross the river, and pass through local villages, rice paddies, and tangerine groves, with children playing and water buffalo along the way. After about 4 to 5 hours of easy hiking, arrive at the trail's end in Xingping, an old town with a history of over 800 years. From here, drive an hour to your hotel in Yangshuo.

This evening is free to explore West Street, Yangshuo's oldest street, with a 1,400-year history shaped by a mix of cultures.

Hiking length: 4 to 6 hours
Hike Distance: 7 to 9 miles / 12 to 15 kilometers
Terrain: Flat hiking, with a bamboo rafting ride

Day 12: Yangshuo Bike Ride | Yulong River Rafting

Bike for 2 to 3 hours along paved paths through the Yangshuo countryside. The route runs alongside the river and passes through local villages. In the afternoon, take a bamboo raft ride down the Yulong River for about 1 to 1.5 hours to enjoy the scenery.

After an early dinner, attend the Impression Liu Sanjie show, with VIP seating. Directed by Zhang Yimou, who directed the opening and closing ceremonies of the 2008 Beijing Olympics, this nighttime laser show overlooks the water and remains a visitor favorite.

Optional Activity: Silver Cave
For travelers who would prefer not to raft, a visit to Silver Cave, one of the largest caves in China, is available instead. Walk through the interior to admire various large stalactite and stalagmite formations.

Day 13: Return Home

  • 1 Breakfast
Enjoy some final time in Yangshuo before transferring back to Guilin to fly home. If you'd like more time in China, talk to your trip planner about extending your trip.

Accommodations

Beijing - Hotels

Han's Royal Garden Hotel

Han's Royal Garden Hotel

Han’s Royal Garden is a stylish boutique hotel that was once the residence of a noble family. This hotel features 39 Western and Chinese deluxe rooms and suites, distinct Chinese-style architecture, and elegant courtyards. The on-site Chinese restaurant and VIP rooms, courtyards, Royal Tea House, Rendezvous Lounge, Red Wine Room, Cigar Bar, and Spa provide an exceptional dining and relaxation experience.
Exterior

Shuangyang Hotel

Shuangyuang Hotel is a full service hotel located with easy access to the Mutianyu Great Wall, Hongluo Temple, Yanqi Lake and Yunmengshan National Forest Park, it is ideally located for day trips. It offers 139 comfortable rooms designed to accommodate the requirements of any traveller. There is also an on-site restaurant serving Sichuan, Shandong, Cantonese and Shanghai dishes.
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Brickyard Hotel

Brickyard Hotel

Brickyard Retreat offers a tranquil environment with spectacular views of the Great Wall. Enjoy all of the on-site services while taking advantage of convenient access to the main Beijing attractions.
Imperial Palace of Forbidden City

More Beijing Hotels

With a booming population of 22 million people, the bustling Chinese capital city of Beijing invites eager travelers to experience all that it has to offer, from the historic Forbidden City, Tian'anmen Square, hutongs (old neighborhoods), temples & Buddhist monasteries. It's also the starting point for many of itineraries exploring the Great Wall!

Longsheng - Hotels

Exterior

Li-An Lodge

The Li-An Lodge Hotel in the Longji Terraces area of Longsheng County, Guangxi Province, China, offers 16 individually designed rooms that feature local Chinese arts and crafts and views of the enchanting rice terraces of Ping’an village. Li-An Lodge is an entirely wood structure implementing the Chinese traditional building technique of tongue and groove without using nails. Created by Keren Su, a renowned photographer, painter, and adventurous world traveler, this one-of-a-kind lodge blends Chinese tradition with western standard amenities.

Yangshuo - Hotels

Moondance Resort

Moondance Resort

Moondance Resort is located five miles outside of Yangshuo, behind famous Moon Hill and along the Jinbao River in Fenglou Village. With stunning views of the surrounding karst mountains, the resort offers 21 non-identical suites with modern private bathrooms.
Yangshuo Mountain Retreat

Yangshuo Mountain Retreat

The Yangshuo Mountain Retreat is a gem among Guilin Yangshuo hotels. Originally conceived as a simple ecolodge where friends could escape from the large cities and experience local beauty, the retreat has grown in popularity but remained true to the authenticity of its original concept, like offering a simple farm-to-table menu. The Yangshuo Mountain Retreat is unique due to its legendary service, breathtaking views of the Yulong River, upgraded accommodations, sustainability initiatives, and commitment to empowering local people as retreat staff. Three room types are available – Family Rooms, Superior Rooms, and Standard Rooms – with a variety of bed sizes and some with private balconies or terraces.

Xi'an - Hotels

Zuo You Ke Hotel

The Zuo You Ke Theme Hotel in Xi'an provides an unforgettable experience in leisure and convenience. The 54 guest rooms and public areas are decorated with antique furniture and artwork customized by famous artists. Zuo You Ke advocates a green and low-carbon lifestyle, with “Dwelling, Tea & Meal” as its service theme. The hotel’s Tea Restaurant, guest amenities, folk customs and art, and hospitality introduce travelers to Xi'an culture and invite relaxation.
Mercure on Renmin Square Xi'an

Mercure on Renmin Square Xi'an

Xi'an welcomes travelers to historical Renmin Square, a sprawling area of gardens, heritage structures, luxury hotels, and the Mercure on Renmin Square Xi'an. Amidst plush décor and furnishings, Mercure on Renmin Square Xi'an features 103 rooms, including 24 suites and 17 non-smoking rooms. All rooms are equipped with modern essentials, such as safes, satellite TV, broadband Internet access, and voicemail. Friendly staff, contemporary amenities, cultural ambiance, and historical treasures make for an unforgettable stay.
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Sofitel on Renmin Square

Sofitel on Renmin Square

Sofitel Xi'an on Renmin Square is centrally located in the heart of Xi'an, a museum city with historic relics of 13 dynasties. This luxury hotel combines the heritage of Xi'an with Sofitel’s classic French hospitality. All 414 hotel rooms, suites, and apartments feature modern conveniences, including complimentary wireless internet, rainforest showers, and custom Sofitel beds. Enjoy chic modern design, 5 elegant restaurants, 2 inviting bars and lounges, swimming pools, and a state-of-the-art fitness center.
Buddist sculptures

More Xi'an Hotels

Chengdu - Hotels

Old Chengdu Club Garden and Courtyard

Old Chengdu Club

The Old Chengdu Club, located in Chengdu, is adjacent to the Wenshu Monastery and Wenshufang shopping district/Folk and Culture Street in Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China. The hotel is a reconstruction of a historical Qing Dynasty courtyard building, covering an area of almost 40,000 square feet and featuring elegant guest rooms, fine dining and catering, a spa and fitness center, and charming courtyards.
Buddha Zen Hotel

Buddha Zen Hotel

The Buddha Zen Hotel honors Zen Buddhist culture with 35 spacious and bright guestrooms decorated with elegant embroideries and antiques. As a first choice for Buddhist dignitaries, worshipers, and business travelers, the hotel features tranquil accommodations, vegetarian meals in Rong Zhai Restaurant, a relaxing sauna in Zi Zai Spa, and traditional teas in Jian Cha Tea house.
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Ritz Carlton

Ritz Carlton

The Ritz Carlton is located next to the center of Chengdu in the Sichuan Province. The hotel has two thousand years of history and culture and is near to a shopping center, historical sites and museums. With 353 comfy rooms, multiple dining options, a spa and children's activities this Chinese hotel has something for everyone.

Dates & Prices

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Rates based on current exchange rate CNY/US dollars. Please contact us for exact quote in US dollars.

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Included
  • 12 Breakfasts, 4 Lunches, 2 Dinners
  • 12 Nights Accommodations
  • 12 Days Locally Hosted Guide Service
  • Accommodations as listed
  • Ground transportation as listed
  • Activities as listed
  • Meals as listed
  • Access to a 24-7 Emergency line while traveling
  • Land transfers for whole trip with a nice private car with A/C
  • Internal flights from Chengdu to Guilin, economy class with airport tax
  • Bullet Train ride from Beijing to Xian and Xian to Chengdu
  • Accommodation on a standard level twin-sharing basis
Excluded
  • Gratuities
  • Travel Insurance
  • Personal Expenses
  • Flight costs (please request a quote)
  • Additional excursions during free time
  • Fuel and transportation surcharges (when applicable)
  • Luggage storage and porter fees Ping'An Village
  • China Visa Fee - US citizens must obtain visa prior to arrival
  • Bullet train from Xi'an to Chengdu
  • Luggage storage or porter fees Ping'An village
  • Optional programs
  • Any alcoholic drinks

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Typically not offered during this period because of weather conditions.
Good to ideal period to travel, and many people choose to visit at this time.

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