11 Days Beijing Xian Guilin Shanghai Tour From Los Angeles

Summary

Day 1 Los Angeles-Beijing:Make your own flight arrangement to Beijing, transfer to your hotel
Day 2 Beijing: Forbidden City, Summer Palace, Temple of heaven
Day 3 Beijing-Xian: Mutiantu Great Wall, Take bullet train to Xian
Day 4 Xian: Terracotta Warriors and Horses Museum, Big Wild Goose Pagoda, Dumpling Banquet, Tang Dynasty Music and Dance Show
Day 5 Xian-Guilin: Xian Ancient City Wall, Muslim Quarter, Fly to Guilin
Day 6 Guilin: Li River Cruise, Yangshuo West Street
Day 7 Guilin: Elephant Trunk Hill, Reed Flute Cave, Seven Star Park
Day 8 Guilin-Shanghai: Take flight to Shanghai
Day 9 Shanghai: Yuyuan Garden, Jade Buddha Temple, Old French Concession, The Bund, Huangpu River Night Cruise
Day 10 Shanghai: Zhujiajiao Water Town
Day 11 Shanghai-Los Angeles: Oriental Pearl Tower, Fly back to Los Angeles

Day1 Los Angeles-Beijing

Once you land in Beijing after your flight from Los Angeles, our friendly local driver will be waiting at the arrival gate, holding a sign that reads "Your Way Holiday." You'll be greeted with a warm smile and driven comfortably to your hotel in the city. From the moment you arrive, we make sure everything flows smoothly so you can start your journey with peace of mind. The rest of the day is yours to relax and get ready for the cultural wonders ahead.

Day2 Beijing

After breakfast, your journey into Beijing’s imperial past begins with the Forbidden City—known today as the Palace Museum. This enormous complex was home to 24 emperors across the Ming and Qing dynasties, and remains the largest and best-preserved wooden palace structure in the world. With nearly 1,000 buildings and over 8,700 rooms, every corridor and courtyard tells a story of power, tradition, and daily life inside the royal court. As you walk through the Meridian Gate and into the grand ceremonial halls, your private guide will decode the layers of symbolism hidden in the architecture—from the mythical creatures on the rooftops to the imperial yellow tiles underfoot. You’ll also explore lesser-known corners that most visitors miss, offering a more intimate look at palace life beyond the throne.

Next, escape the city buzz and step into the peaceful elegance of the Summer Palace. Nestled around Kunming Lake and Longevity Hill, this imperial garden retreat once served as a tranquil escape for Qing emperors, especially Empress Dowager Cixi. Its design harmoniously blends natural landscapes with ornate structures—arched bridges, painted pavilions, and the iconic Long Corridor, which your guide will walk you through while pointing out hand-painted scenes from Chinese mythology and history. You'll learn how this space was both a political haven and a personal sanctuary, offering insight into the private lives of the imperial elite. With quiet lakeside views and rich storytelling, you’ll experience the Summer Palace the way it was meant to be felt—serene, graceful, and full of hidden meaning.

Later in the afternoon, your guide will lead you to the Temple of Heaven, a spiritual masterpiece in both design and purpose. Originally built in 1420, this vast complex was where emperors would perform rituals to honor Heaven and pray for abundant harvests. The architecture reflects the ancient Chinese cosmology of heaven and earth—round temples on square bases, symbolic colors, and precise acoustics that amplified sacred sounds. You’ll visit the Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests and the Echo Wall, where your guide will demonstrate its curious sound effects and explain the rituals once performed by the Son of Heaven. As locals gather nearby for tai chi, music, or calligraphy practice, this UNESCO site comes alive not just as a historical landmark, but as a living cultural space. Through your guide’s insights, you’ll understand why this wasn’t just a temple—it was the heart of spiritual governance in imperial China.

After the visit, your guide and driver will escort you comfortably back to your hotel. Along the way, your guide is happy to answer any lingering questions from the day or share insider tips for exploring Beijing like a local—perhaps a quiet tea house nearby or a local restaurant hidden from the tourist crowds. This is a good time to reflect on the rich stories and cultural layers you uncovered throughout the day. Our private service ensures a smooth, unhurried return, giving you time to relax and take in the sights of Beijing as dusk falls over the ancient capital. Whether you want dinner recommendations or suggestions for an evening stroll, your guide is there to help shape the experience around your interests.

Day3 Beijing-Xian

After breakfast, your private driver and professional guide will take you on a scenic drive to the Mutianyu section of the Great Wall—an ideal choice for those seeking a more authentic and less crowded experience. Nestled in the mountains, Mutianyu offers a breathtaking 2.5-kilometer stretch of the Wall, featuring 22 ancient watchtowers, many of which are remarkably well-preserved. As you walk along the Wall, your guide will share stories about its strategic significance, construction techniques, and the dynasties that once relied on its strength for protection. With panoramic views of forested valleys and winding stone paths, this part of the Wall invites you to slow down, explore at your own pace, and truly feel the weight of history. Our guide is there not just for historical insights, but also to help with photography, route suggestions, and sharing quiet spots where you can reflect away from the crowds—so you can “travel like a local.”

After exploring the Great Wall, your guide and driver will escort you to the Beijing train station, ensuring you have your high-speed rail tickets and know exactly where to go for boarding. The journey to Xi’an is smooth and comfortable, offering a glimpse of China’s modern transportation while crossing vast rural landscapes. Upon arrival at Xi’an train station, your local guide will be waiting for you at the exit, holding a “Your Way Holiday” sign for easy recognition. You’ll be warmly welcomed and transferred directly to your hotel in Xi’an. During the ride, your guide will give you an overview of the city’s rich heritage and what to expect in the coming days, ensuring you settle in with ease and feel immediately connected to this historic city.

Day4 Xian

After breakfast, your guide will take you to the awe-inspiring Terracotta Warriors Museum, one of the most significant archaeological finds of the 20th century. Discovered in 1974 by local farmers, this underground army of over 8,000 life-size soldiers, horses, and chariots was created to guard Emperor Qin Shi Huang in the afterlife. As you explore the vast excavation pits, your guide will help you interpret the differences between generals, infantry, and archers, each with distinct facial features and armor. You’ll also learn how these figures were crafted, painted, and positioned with meticulous care over 2,000 years ago. With our expert guide by your side, this isn’t just a sightseeing stop—it’s a deep dive into the legacy of China’s first emperor and the beginnings of a unified nation.

In the afternoon, visit the iconic Big Wild Goose Pagoda, a masterpiece of Tang Dynasty architecture that has stood tall for over 1,300 years. Originally built to house the sacred scriptures brought back from India by the monk Xuanzang, the pagoda is more than just a religious site—it’s a beacon of cultural exchange along the Silk Road. As you walk around the temple grounds, your guide will explain the significance of Xuanzang’s epic journey and how the pagoda became a symbol of Buddhist devotion and Chinese resilience. The view from the top, if you choose to climb, offers a sweeping panorama of Xi’an’s ancient cityscape, blending past and present in a uniquely serene way.

In the evening, enjoy a traditional Dumpling Banquet at the renowned Tang Palace. Dumplings in Xi’an are an art form, and our guide will introduce you to their shapes, fillings, and cultural meanings—each bite is a reflection of northern Chinese culinary heritage. Following dinner, you'll experience the splendid Tang Dynasty Show, a dazzling performance of music, dance, and historical storytelling. Staged in a grand theater, the show vividly recreates the elegance and grandeur of Tang court life. Our guide will ensure you have the best seats and help explain the stories and historical context behind the performances so you can appreciate the beauty beyond the spectacle.

After the performance concludes, you’ll be comfortably driven back to your hotel. Our guide and driver will make sure you return safely and share tips for what to expect the next day, offering any assistance you may need. It’s more than just transportation—it’s part of our commitment to helping you “travel like a local” with peace of mind and personal connection.

Day5 Xian-Guilin

After breakfast, your local guide will accompany you to the Ancient City Wall of Xi’an—China’s most well-preserved city fortification. Originally constructed during the Tang Dynasty and later expanded in the Ming Dynasty, the wall stretches over 13 kilometers, with ramparts wide enough to support both foot and bicycle traffic. As you walk or optionally bike along the top of the wall, you’ll enjoy sweeping views of the old and modern city blending together. Your guide will share fascinating stories about the wall’s defensive design, ancient watchtowers, and the daily life of soldiers once stationed here, helping you truly visualize its historical importance as a protective barrier for this ancient capital.

Next, dive into the vibrant heart of Xi’an’s cultural fusion at the Muslim Quarter. This bustling neighborhood is home to the city’s Hui ethnic minority and offers an irresistible mix of history, religion, and mouth-watering street food. As you stroll through the narrow alleys and market streets, your guide will introduce you to iconic local snacks like roujiamo (Chinese burgers), hand-pulled noodles, and spiced lamb skewers. With over 300 distinct treats to sample, it’s a feast for the senses. Beyond the flavors, your guide will point out architectural features of old courtyard homes and the Grand Mosque tucked away in the alleyways, enriching your understanding of this unique cultural enclave.

After your immersive day in Xi’an, your guide will assist you with check-in at the airport and ensure a smooth departure for your flight to Guilin. Upon arrival in Guilin, another friendly local guide will be waiting for you at the airport arrival gate, holding a "China Private Tour" sign for easy recognition. You’ll be warmly welcomed and transferred to your hotel in comfort. Along the way, your new guide will offer a brief introduction to Guilin and what to expect in the days ahead—ensuring you feel at ease, informed, and ready for the next chapter of your journey.

Day6 Guilin

After breakfast, your guide will accompany you on a scenic 30-minute drive through Guilin’s lush countryside to Mopanshan Pier—your gateway to the breathtaking Li River Cruise. This journey is one of the most iconic experiences in all of China, offering a rare chance to drift through a living Chinese painting. As your boat glides along the crystal-clear waters, you’ll be surrounded by limestone karst peaks rising dramatically from the riverbanks, reflected perfectly in the gentle current. Rice paddies, sleepy villages, and water buffalo lounging in the shallows create a picture of rural China that feels timeless. Your guide will help you spot and understand notable formations like “Nine Horses Fresco Hill” and share local legends that bring the landscape to life.

Once you disembark in Yangshuo, your guide will lead you on a relaxed walk through the famous West Street—an atmospheric blend of ancient charm and lively modern culture. Dating back over 1,400 years, this cobbled lane is a captivating place to soak in Yangshuo’s unique fusion of East and West. The buildings here, with their whitewashed walls and gray-tiled roofs, have stood for centuries. Now, they house a mix of cafes, art shops, and boutiques where you’ll find traditional crafts like painted fans, calligraphy scrolls, and embroidered silk—perfect keepsakes that tell a story. Your guide will recommend the best local snacks to try or help you find that one-of-a-kind souvenir while offering insights into the street’s long history and vibrant present.

At the end of your exploration, your guide will escort you on a comfortable drive back to your hotel in Guilin. On the way, they may point out local customs, farming life, or share stories that reflect the slower, rural pace of Guangxi province. This personal touch helps you not just see Guilin—but begin to understand it like a local.

Day7 Guilin

After breakfast, your guide will take you to visit Elephant Trunk Hill, one of Guilin’s most iconic natural landmarks. This unique karst formation resembles a giant elephant dipping its trunk into the Li River, a sight that has inspired poets and painters for centuries. Climbing to the hilltop rewards you with stunning panoramic views over Guilin’s cityscape and the winding river below, a perfect spot for photography or quiet reflection. Throughout your visit, your guide will share fascinating stories about the hill’s cultural significance and local legends, enriching your experience beyond just the scenery.

Next, you will explore Reed Flute Cave, often called “The Palace of Natural Arts.” This spectacular limestone cave dazzles visitors with its intricate formations of stalactites, stalagmites, and rock pillars, all sculpted over millions of years through natural erosion. Illuminated by colorful lighting, the cave’s chambers reveal breathtaking scenes that look almost otherworldly. Your guide will point out key formations and explain the geological processes behind this wonder, helping you appreciate the cave’s deep history and natural beauty while answering any questions you might have.

Then, continue your journey to Seven Star Park, celebrated as one of Guilin’s top ten scenic spots. The park features diverse attractions including the famous Camel Hill, which resembles a camel resting beside Elephant Trunk Hill. Nestled within the park, you’ll find a charming zoo, peaceful bonsai gardens, and traditional teahouses where you can experience local tea culture. Your guide will accompany you throughout, providing insightful commentary on the park’s history, ecology, and cultural elements, ensuring a rich, immersive visit.

After a fulfilling day, your guide will drive you back to your Guilin hotel. During the drive, they may share local customs or hidden gems in the area, offering a deeper connection to Guilin’s unique rhythm and lifestyle — helping you truly travel like a local.

Day8 Guilin-Shanghai

You’ll have some free time this morning to explore Guilin at your own pace, whether that means relaxing at a local café, strolling through a nearby park, or visiting a market to experience the everyday life of locals. Our goal is to encourage you to travel like a local, so feel free to ask your guide for personalized recommendations if you want to venture out independently. When it’s time, your driver will pick you up from your hotel and transfer you comfortably to Guilin airport, ensuring a smooth start to the next leg of your journey.

Day9 Shanghai

After breakfast, your Shanghai journey begins with a visit to Yuyuan Garden, a masterpiece of classical Chinese garden design dating back to the Ming Dynasty. Originally built as a private garden for the Pan family, it was the largest and most prestigious garden in Shanghai during its time. The garden’s design is a harmonious blend of delicate pavilions, ornate halls, shimmering pools, zigzag bridges, and intricate rockeries, all arranged to create a peaceful, almost poetic atmosphere. Our experienced guide will walk you through the history and symbolism behind each corner of the garden, explaining the cultural significance of its architectural elements and garden artistry. This deep insight helps you connect not only with the beauty but also the spirit of traditional Chinese landscaping.

Next, you will visit the Jade Buddha Temple, one of Shanghai’s most active Buddhist sites, renowned for its two exquisite jade Buddha statues. The larger seated Buddha stands nearly two meters tall, exuding serenity, while the smaller reclining Buddha represents Buddha’s final moments, offering a profound spiritual experience. Your guide will share fascinating stories about the temple’s founding, the significance of its sculptures, and the temple customs observed by locals, giving you a fuller understanding of Buddhism’s place in contemporary Shanghai. This visit allows you to experience not just the architecture but also the living culture that breathes through this sacred site.

After lunch, your guide will take you to explore the Old French Concession, a charming neighborhood famous for its leafy avenues, historic Tudor-style houses, and lively café culture. This area offers a stark contrast to Shanghai’s bustling downtown, providing a more relaxed and intimate atmosphere where you can truly feel the city’s cosmopolitan soul. Your guide will point out hidden gems and local favorites, sharing stories about the district’s colonial past and its vibrant modern art scene. Strolling through the quiet streets with your guide’s expert commentary, you’ll discover why the French Concession is a beloved spot among locals and visitors alike.

In the afternoon, you’ll visit The Bund, the iconic waterfront promenade that showcases Shanghai’s impressive skyline and rich colonial heritage. From here, you can admire landmarks like the futuristic Pearl Tower, the soaring Jinmao Tower, and the Shanghai Tower, China’s tallest building. The Bund itself is lined with historic buildings that serve as a living museum of Shanghai’s 19th-century international trade era. Your guide will explain the architectural styles and stories behind these grand structures, connecting their history to Shanghai’s evolution as a global metropolis.

As night falls, you’ll embark on a scenic cruise along the Huangpu River, a must-do experience to witness Shanghai’s dazzling nightscape. The city’s lights reflect off the water, creating a mesmerizing view of illuminated skyscrapers and colonial buildings side by side. Your guide will enhance the experience by pointing out key sights and sharing intriguing anecdotes about the river’s role in Shanghai’s history and daily life. After soaking in the stunning vistas, your private transfer will bring you back to your hotel, rounding off a day filled with rich cultural immersion and local discovery.

After the cruise, drive you back to your hotel.

Day10 Shanghai

After breakfast, you’ll embark on a short drive of about an hour to Zhujiajiao Water Town, one of the six famous ancient water towns near Shanghai. Known as the best-preserved town of its kind in the region, Zhujiajiao boasts a rich history stretching back more than 1,700 years. As you arrive, your guide will introduce the fascinating background of this timeless place, highlighting its network of ancient canals, stone bridges, and traditional architecture that paint a vivid picture of life in old China. Walking along the waterways, you’ll discover winding alleys lined with quaint houses and charming gardens, where every corner offers a glimpse into the town’s heritage and local culture. The guide will share stories about the craftsmanship behind the bridges and the lifestyle of past residents, making the experience both educational and immersive.

Next, you’ll enjoy a leisurely boat ride on the calm canal waters, an iconic way to explore Zhujiajiao’s serene beauty from a unique perspective. Floating gently beneath arched bridges and past waterside homes, you can capture stunning photos of reflections on the water and the lush greenery that frames the town. Your guide will point out notable landmarks along the route and provide insights into the ecological importance of the waterways and the role they played in the town’s development. This tranquil cruise not only refreshes the senses but deepens your understanding of the harmony between nature and traditional architecture in this unique setting.

After the boat ride, you’ll have some free time to further explore the town at your own pace. Whether you choose to browse the local shops for handcrafted souvenirs, sample authentic snacks at a street-side stall, or simply soak in the relaxed atmosphere of this historic town, your guide will be available to offer recommendations and assist as needed. When the time feels right, you will be comfortably driven back to your hotel in Shanghai, enriched by an authentic glimpse of local life and the enduring charm of Zhujiajiao Water Town.

Day11 Shanghai-Los Angeles

After breakfast, your day begins with a visit to the iconic Oriental Pearl Tower, one of Shanghai’s most famous landmarks and among the tallest transmission towers in the world. Completed in 1994, this striking structure has become a symbol of Shanghai’s modern skyline. Our guide will walk you through the tower’s unique design, explaining how its spheres represent pearls of different sizes, symbolizing the passage of time. As you ascend, you’ll have the chance to explore the interactive Shanghai Urban History Museum located inside the tower, which offers an engaging insight into the city’s rich past and rapid transformation. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the observation decks — on a clear day, the panoramic views stretching across the Huangpu River and the futuristic cityscape are simply breathtaking. Our guide will assist in navigating the best spots for photos and provide context to what you see, making your visit much more meaningful.

After lunch, you will be transferred to Shanghai Pudong International Airport for your flight back to Los Angeles. Our dedicated guide will ensure a smooth and timely transfer, assisting you with check-in and any last-minute needs, reflecting our commitment to professional and thoughtful service. Although your journey with us ends here, we hope you carry a deep appreciation of Shanghai’s blend of tradition and modernity, having truly traveled like a local throughout your experience.

Price Per Person in US Dollars

Price Includes 1. All transfer and city transportation 2. Air-conditioned car or van 3. Hotels specified in the itinerary, all based     on two persons sharingone standard room; 4. Meals specified in the itinerary: Western     breakfast in hotels Chinese lunch and     dinner in local restaurants 5. Sightseeing: All arrangements mentioned     in the itinerary will be covered All first     admission/entrance fees in the itinerary 6. Tour guide: Conducted by a professional     tour guide

Price Excludes 1. International air-tickets 2. Airport departure tax. 3. International or domestic air tickets which     are not listed in the itinerary. 4. Insurance coverage of personal loss, illness     or damages incurred during your trip 5. Tips to the tour guide and driver 6. Meals not specified in the itinerary. 7. Personal expenses: phone bills, laundry,     optional tours, postage, excess baggage     charge, entertainment fees out of the     itinerary. 8. Single Room Supplement.