Classic China Private Journey

Arrive in Beijing, where your private driver will greet you for a seamless transfer to your hotel. The rest of the day is yours to explore at leisure. Consider taking an evening stroll along Wangfujing Street, where traditional snack stalls sit alongside designer boutiques, or unwind and prepare for the adventure ahead.

Today, immerse yourself in the history of China’s imperial past. Choose to explore on your own or join one of our recommended optional tours. Begin your day at Tiananmen Square, where grand monuments set the stage for the entrance to the Forbidden City. Wander through its sprawling courtyards and admire centuries-old palaces that once housed Chinese emperors. In the afternoon, step into a different era at the Temple of Heaven, an architectural masterpiece where emperors once prayed for prosperity. If you’re interested in Beijing’s old-world charm, consider an optional hutong rickshaw tour, where narrow alleyways reveal hidden teahouses and historic courtyard homes.

The Great Wall is an unmissable highlight of any trip to China. We recommend visiting the Mutianyu section, known for its scenic surroundings and well-preserved watchtowers. You can ride a cable car to the top for sweeping views, or opt for a moderate hike along the ramparts. On your way back to Beijing, consider stopping at the Summer Palace, where tranquil lakes and ornate pavilions offer a peaceful retreat from the city.

In the morning, your driver will transfer you to Beijing South Railway Station to board the high-speed train to Xi’an. The 4.5-hour journey aboard the bullet train offers a comfortable ride through China’s diverse landscapes. Upon arrival at Xi’an North Railway Station, a private driver will be waiting to transfer you to your hotel. The rest of the day is yours to explore at your own pace. Consider visiting the Ancient City Wall, where you can walk or bike along the centuries-old fortifications, or take a leisurely stroll through the bustling Muslim Quarter, where food vendors serve up Xi’an’s most famous street snacks.

Uncover one of the greatest archaeological discoveries of all time—the Terracotta Warriors. Thousands of life-sized soldiers, each with unique features, stand guard over the tomb of China’s first emperor. To deepen your experience, consider visiting a nearby pottery workshop to see how these ancient statues were crafted. In the afternoon, you may want to see Big Wild Goose Pagoda, an important Buddhist landmark, or explore the city at your own pace. This evening, you may wish to indulge in an optional Tang Dynasty cultural performance, a spectacular display of dance, music, and colorful costumes.

In the morning, you will be transferred to Xi’an Xianyang International Airport for your flight to Guilin (flight is available on request). The 2-hour journey offers stunning aerial views of China’s mountainous regions. Upon arrival in Guilin, a private driver will take you to your hotel. Take the afternoon to explore at your leisure. You may wish to visit the Reed Flute Cave, a natural limestone cavern illuminated by colorful lights, or stop by Elephant Trunk Hill, a unique rock formation that has inspired Chinese poetry for centuries. For those who enjoy scenic strolls, consider an evening walk along the Two Rivers and Four Lakes Scenic Area, where pagodas glow beautifully against the water.

This morning, a private driver will take you on a 1.5-hour scenic drive to Yangshuo, where mist-shrouded karst mountains rise dramatically from the land. You may choose to experience the beauty of the Yulong River on a bamboo raft, drifting past rice paddies and traditional villages. Later, explore West Street, where local artisans sell hand-painted fans and silk embroidery. For a deeper cultural connection, visit Fuli Old Town, known for its centuries-old craftsmanship. In the evening, consider watching the Impression Liu Sanjie light show, an open-air performance set against the stunning backdrop of the Li River.

After a relaxed morning, your driver will transfer you back to Guilin for your flight to Shanghai. The 2-hour flight brings you to China’s most modern and cosmopolitan city. Upon arrival, a private transfer takes you to your hotel. Take the evening to soak in the energy of Shanghai. Walk along The Bund, where colonial-era buildings stand in contrast to the dazzling modern skyline of Pudong.

Spend the day exploring at your own pace or join one of our recommended optional tours. Perhaps start with a visit to Yu Garden, a beautifully preserved Ming Dynasty garden filled with rock formations, koi ponds, and classical pavilions. Nearby, Shanghai Old Street offers a glimpse into the city’s past with its traditional tea houses and antique shops. For art lovers, the Jade Buddha Temple houses two rare jade Buddha statues, while those interested in shopping may prefer a leisurely afternoon along Nanjing Road. In the evening, consider a thrilling acrobatic show, where gravity-defying performances highlight China’s legendary circus arts.