A Close Encounter with Pandas

Discover the best of China in just 13 days. This itinerary blends historical exploration, breathtaking landscapes, cultural immersion, and the irresistible charm of giant pandas. Visit iconic landmarks like the Forbidden City and the Great Wall, marvel at the majestic beauty of the Three Gorges, learn about traditional Chinese culture through tea ceremonies and dumpling-making, and encounter the adorable giant pandas. It’s ideal for first-time visitors who are eager to discover the magic of these gentle creatures or families looking to create lasting memories.

The itinerary provided is a starting point. Your personal travel advisor can help you create a customized trip based on your preferences and budget.

Suggested 13-Day Itinerary

Itinerary

Here is a suggested itinerary. We are happy to customize a tour according to your interests.

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Day 1: Beijing Arrival

• Your private guide meets you at the arrival hall
• Private transfer to your hotel with experienced driver
• Guide assists with hotel check-in

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Day 2: Beijing | The Forbidden City and Hutongs

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Morning:

• Visit Tian’anmen Square, the world’s largest city square
• Explore the Forbidden City with your private guide
• Discover hidden spots away from tourist crowds

Afternoon:

• One-hour rickshaw tour through historic hutongs
• Visit a local home and Silver Ingot Bridge
• Learn about traditional courtyard architecture

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Day 3: Beijing | The Great Wall Hiking

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Morning:

• Visit Temple of Heaven
• Interact with locals and experience their lifestyle

Afternoon:

• Hike the Mutianyu section of the Great Wall
• Enjoy picturesque scenery and restored architecture

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Day 4: Beijing to Xian | The Summer Palace

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Morning:

• Explore the Summer Palace, a 300-year-old royal garden
• Enjoy boat ride on the lake
• Admire exquisite paintings in long corridors

Lunch: Authentic Beijing roast duck experience

Afternoon: Flight to Xi’an with guide meeting service

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Day 5: Xian | The Terracotta Army

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Full Day:

• Visit the Terracotta Army, unique 2,000-year-old warriors
• Learn to make clay warriors with local craftsman
• Bike or walk along ancient city wall
• Explore Muslim Quarter and taste local cuisine

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Day 6: Xian to Chengdu | Xi’an City Highlights

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Morning:

• Visit Little Wild Goose Pagoda and Buddhist artifacts
• Enjoy panoramic city views
• Learn to make Chinese dumplings with local family

Afternoon: 4-hour high-speed train to Chengdu

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Day 7: Chengdu | One-Day Panda Keeper Program

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Full Day Panda Experience:

• Participate in Panda Keeper Program at Dujiangyan Panda Base
• Prepare bamboo and make cakes for pandas
• Watch panda feeding at close distance
• Enjoy lunch with staff in canteen

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Day 8: Chengdu to Chongqing | Authentic Chengdu Life

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Morning:

• Experience local life at Chengdu People’s Park
• Learn tea etiquette and join square dancing
• Visit Jinli Old Street for local snacks

Afternoon: Bullet train to Chongqing, then check-in for Yangtze River cruise

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Day 9: Yangtze Cruise | Fengdu Ghost City

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Activities:

• Optional tai chi morning exercise
• Shore excursion to Fengdu Ghost City
• Cultural activities on ship
• Optional night show after dinner

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Day 10: Yangtze Cruise | Gorgeous Gorges

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Full Day:

• Optional visit to White Emperor City
• Cruise through Qutang Gorge and Wu Gorge
• Shore excursion to Shennv Stream
• Crew Cabaret and Talent Show after dinner

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Day 11: Yichang | Yichang to Shanghai by Bullet Train

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Morning:

• Disembark and visit Three Gorges Dam
• Transfer to Yichang tourist center

Afternoon: Bullet train to Shanghai

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Day 12: Shanghai | Highlights with Bund Discovery

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Morning:

• In-depth Bund Culture Discovery Tour
• Explore historic Bund buildings and stories

Afternoon:

• Ascend Shanghai Tower for panoramic views
• Free time for customized activities
• Guide available for personalized arrangements

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Day 13: Shanghai Departure

Convenient departure service

Private transfer to airport

Assistance through security gate

Tour Package Price: From US$3,379 per person

This starting price is based on a private tour for two people staying in 4-star hotels. The final price will vary depending on your customized program, travel date, group size, and hotel selection.

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What’s Included

• Private Transfers
  Travel in a private, air-conditioned business car with ample space and large windows.
• Expert Guide
  Services of an English-speaking local guide.
• Activities & Accommodation
  All activities, hotels, and meals as specified in your itinerary.
• Inter-city Travel
  All domestic flights and train tickets between cities mentioned in the itinerary.
• 24/7 Support
  Round-the-clock helpline throughout your journey.