Embark on the ultimate 13-night Chinese odyssey designed for travelers seeking the perfect balance of monumental history, stunning river canyons, and vibrant local culture. Journey seamlessly from the imperial landmarks of Beijing and the ancient treasures of Xi’an to the laid-back panda sanctuaries of Chengdu. Next, board a deluxe vessel to cruise through the majestic Three Gorges of the Yangtze River before concluding your adventure amidst the glittering skyscrapers of Shanghai.
With round-trip international flights departing from Los Angeles, high-speed rail journeys, and a premium river cruise, this is the hassle-free, bucket-list trip of a lifetime.
Not Included: Optional tours and gratuities (unless otherwise specified).
Board your international flight bound for Beijing, China. When you land, our local tour guide will meet you at the airport and shuttle you straight to your hotel for check-in.
After breakfast, walk through Tiananmen Square, one of the largest public plazas anywhere in the world. Next, explore the Forbidden City — the royal imperial palace commissioned by the Ming Dynasty's Yongle Emperor. Construction ran from 1406 to 1420. Over hundreds of years, the palace complex endured fires, looting, reconstruction and extensive renovations. Most buildings you''ll see today date back to the 1700s and later.
After breakfast, stop at a jade culture museum to learn about China's 4,000-year jade tradition (the stone is pronounced 'yu' in Mandarin). Watch master craftsmen carve elaborate jade art pieces live on-site. We''ll drive through rural mountain terrain to Juyongguan Pass — a well-preserved, far less crowded stretch of the Great Wall, away from overcrowded mainstream tourist sections. Stretching over 5,600 km (3,480 miles) across northern mountain ranges, the wall runs from the Yellow Sea coastline all the way to the edge of the Gobi Desert. In the evening, you can sign up for a paid rickshaw hutong tour paired with a home-style local dinner.
After breakfast, visit a Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) wellness center to learn about acupuncture, herbal remedies and other core ancient healing therapies. You''ll travel to Xi'an via high-speed rail. If train tickets sell out, a domestic flight will be arranged as an alternative. A local guide will greet you upon arrival and escort you to your hotel to check in. High-speed train tickets are limited and subject to real-time availability. If fully booked, domestic air travel will be provided. Train or flight documents will be handed to you by your guide after you arrive in China; some domestic flight segments may connect directly to your international air ticket. You must submit full passport information at least 60 days before departure. Otherwise, you may be separated from your travel companions on the train. High-speed train cars alternate between rows of two and three seats, so we cannot guarantee adjacent seating for your group. The order of Beijing's attractions (Days 2-4) may be rearranged based on daily operational needs.
Spend your morning at Xingqing Park, a lively urban green space where you can watch local residents practice traditional morning fitness routines. Next, view the bronze chariot and horse relics unearthed from the Terracotta Army site. Then tour a handicraft gallery showcasing delicate mini terracotta statues and polished lacquer furniture inspired by the ancient army. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before entering the main excavation pits of the Terracotta Army. More than 7,000 life-sized clay soldiers, horses and chariots were buried alongside China's first emperor, Qin Shi Huang. Local farmers first uncovered this world-famous site in 1974, and excavation work still continues to this day. In the evening, you can join an optional six-course imperial Tang Dynasty dinner followed by a grand historical dance performance from a professional Tang culture troupe.
Start the day touring Xi'an's Ancient City Wall, originally built starting in 194 BC. It's the most intact surviving ancient city wall in China and one of the world's largest ancient military defense systems. Lunch will be served at a local restaurant. After lunch, board a high-speed train bound for Chengdu, capital of Sichuan Province. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel. Tonight's included dinner features authentic Sichuan hot pot, a flavorful regional cuisine with over 1,000 years of history beloved across all of China.
This morning, visit the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding — home to more than 80 pandas and one of the world's largest professional panda conservation facilities. Wild panda habitats continue to shrink due to deforestation. After lunch at a local restaurant, visit a neighborhood mahjong teahouse. Watch locals play this classic Chinese table game and pick up simple beginner tips from regular players. In the evening, you can sign up for an optional Sichuan Opera show, famous for vibrant costumes, vivid stage acts and the iconic face-changing trick that wows global audiences.
Depart Chengdu and drive to Chongqing, the gateway city to the Yangtze River. Next, explore Eling Park, built in 1909 by a wealthy Qing Dynasty merchant on a central urban hill. Wander its well-maintained gardens filled with hundreds of native plant species, then climb the observation tower for full panoramic skyline views of Chongqing. This evening, enjoy dinner onboard your cruise ship and officially begin your multi-day Yangtze River scenic voyage.
Wake up to spectacular river valley scenery. Today's shore excursion takes you to Shuanggui Mountain National Forest Park, renowned for stunning natural landscapes and rich cultural heritage. The cruise ship will set sail again in the evening.
Today's voyage brings jaw-dropping gorge scenery. First, sail through Qutang Gorge, the shortest of the three Yangtze Three Gorges. Continue cruising along the 25-mile-long Wuxia Gorge, famous for its legendary Twelve Peaks. Local folklore tells the story of twelve celestial fairies who transformed into the mountain summits, with Goddess Peak (Shennv Feng) being the most recognizable — topped by a massive rock shaped like a kneeling maiden. This afternoon, disembark for a shore trip to Shennong Stream to explore unique karst rock formations and riverside villages. We will return to the ship before it departs overnight to pass through Xiling Gorge. Note: The Shennong Stream shore visit depends on seasonal river water levels and may be adjusted.
After breakfast, disembark your cruise ship and head to the Three Gorges Dam — the world's largest hydroelectric facility, nearly six times bigger than the Hoover Dam. This groundbreaking engineering project has permanently reshaped the landscape along the Yangtze. Take a full guided tour of the massive dam complex to witness this incredible human achievement. Lunch will be provided at a local restaurant. After dinner in the evening, transfer to the airport or train station to travel to Shanghai, a fast-growing Asian metropolis with an ever-changing skyline. Note: Flights to Shanghai may depart from Yichang or Shashi depending on airline schedules. If flights are unavailable, a 6-hour high-speed rail transfer will be arranged instead.
This morning, stroll the iconic Bund riverside promenade, where you''ll get striking side-by-side views of Shanghai's historic colonial architecture and modern glass skyscrapers. Stop at a local silk, carpet and embroidery workshop to watch artisans hand-weave intricate textile patterns. Next, visit Yu Garden, a classical Ming Dynasty garden tucked inside Shanghai's Old Town. This peaceful retreat features elegant pagodas, quiet lakes and ornate pavilions. Afterwards, tour the Jade Buddha Temple, famous for two large jade Buddha statues imported from Myanmar. Lunch and shopping hours are fully at your own pace. You''re welcome to discover Shanghai's world-class independent restaurants for dinner on your own this evening.
Travel to Fengjing Ancient Water Town, one of Shanghai's most charming canal villages lined with traditional black-and-white Hui-style homes and ancient stone bridges. Visit the local Wedding Museum to learn about classic Shanghai marriage customs. After lunch, tour a former People's Commune site (1958–1984), a unique rural collective management system unique to Chinese history. Take a relaxing gondola ride along the narrow village canals to soak in idyllic water town scenery. Wrap up the sightseeing with a trip to a local rice winery to learn about traditional rice wine brewing methods. Tonight, share a farewell dinner with your tour manager to mark the end of all land-based sightseeing.
You will be transferred to Shanghai Airport to board your return international flight back to the United States. Important Hotel Note: Standard checkout time is 12:00 noon. Complimentary luggage storage is available at the front desk for guests with later flight departures.
Discover the harmony of nature and imperial history at the spectacular Summer Palace, a world-famous UNESCO garden of stunning lakes and historic temples. Next, head to the Beijing Zoo for a close-up look at China’s beloved giant pandas. Wrap up your afternoon with a wonderful dinner featuring authentic Beijing flavors.
Explore the hidden heart of old Beijing! Ride a traditional pedicab through the ancient Hutong alleys, and visit a local courtyard home for a warm, home-cooked dinner and cultural exchange. Conclude your tour in Shichahai, a gorgeous district of three historic lakes surrounded by traditional residences and scenic views.
Experience the grandeur of China’s most glorious era! Indulge in an exquisite 6-course Imperial dinner set to traditional Chang’an music, followed by a legendary cultural show featuring breathtaking ancient court dances and brilliant state-of-the-art staging.
We carefully select each hotel based on overall quality, location, service, and cleanliness. Hotels are subject to availability and may vary by departure date.
All travel packages we provide are customised travel combinations including flights, accommodation, ground transfers, sightseeing and other arranged services. Each booking is tailor-made based on your selected travel date, destination, cabin & room preferences and add-on tour services. No independent use of single component from the whole package is allowed.
Our website does not support online payment. All booking deposits and full payments will be coordinated with you via our official email after our customer service confirms your travel quotation. Please contact our team to arrange payment once you confirm your travel plan.
A non-refundable deposit equal to 10% of the total tour cost is required upon booking to secure your reservation. The full outstanding balance must be fully settled 30 days prior to your scheduled departure date. If you make your booking less than 30 days before departure, full payment of the entire package price is due immediately at confirmation. Failure to complete payment by the stated deadline will result in automatic cancellation of your booking with deposit forfeited. Please contact our team via official email to arrange payment once you confirm your travel plan.
Please contact our customer service if you wish to request advance seat assignments. Some airlines do not support pre-seating, and seats will only be allocated upon airport check-in. Airlines reserve the right to adjust assigned seats. Pre-selected seats may be changed or cancelled due to schedule adjustments, equipment swaps or other operational reasons. Preferred paid seats must be purchased directly from the airline. If you modify your seat selection directly via the airline, such updates will not be reflected on our travel documents. The seats shown on your final travel documents are based on records in the airline’s reservation system at the time of document issuance.
Passengers are responsible to contact their airline directly regarding mileage eligibility and accrual. Airline frequent flier programs determine whether to award miles in part or total based on their own rules which are updated frequently. Some discounted or promotional airfares as well as some code-share flights are not eligible for mileage accrual. Not all published airfares are eligible for mileage.
We will record frequent flier numbers when provided by the passenger prior to travel documents being issued. However, the addition of frequent flier numbers to airline records does not guarantee mileage eligibility which is at the sole discretion of each airline. Airline schedule changes may result in flights which were originally eligible for mileage accrual no longer being eligible.
We highly recommend passengers to provide their frequent flier account information whenever checking in online and/or at the airport check-in desk. After travel has commenced, it is often not possible to apply for frequent mileage credit. Passengers are also responsible to determine whether previously earned mileage may be applied to flights to secure upgrades.
If you have a KTN number, you are normally able to join the TSA security line for expedited processing at the airport. Prior to check in, you should go online or call your airline and add your KTN number to your reservation record. In most cases, you will then see the letters “TSA PRE” printed on your boarding pass. If these letters are not printed, you will not be permitted on the TSA line. Please be aware that some airlines do not participate in the program and therefore even if there is a TSA line at the airport, you will not be given TSA PRE status. Sometimes you may not be selected by TSA (even if you entered a KTN number) and even a minor name discrepancy can result in TSA PRE being denied. It is your responsibility to register your KTN number with your airline and Portaltrip cannot be held responsible for denial of expedited security. Note: KTNs are issued by the US Transportation Security Administration (TSA) after completing a background check through TSA’s PreCheck® program. Global Entry members may also enjoy expedited customs processing.
Checked bags are typically limited to a total dimension of 62 inches by adding length + width + height (example: 26"+26"+10" = 62"), and a maximum weight of 50 lbs (23kg). Smart Bags with a USB charging port, GPS tracking device and other high-tech features are prohibited as checked or carry-on baggage unless the bag is made with removable batteries and the batteries are removed and stored separately.
Missed connections and lost luggage are more common than ever. We strongly suggest you use your carry on bag for those necessities you would miss if your checked bags went astray. Items to consider, but not limited to, are prescription medicines, eyeglasses, a change of clothes, mobile phone and charger, valuables (including jewelry and cash), passport, keys, insurance cards, local contact information. Refer to the TSA website for a complete list of items and their sizes which may be carried on board. We also recommend you bring a change of clothes in your carry on bag in the event that your luggage is delayed or lost.
All intra-flights included in your package are booked in Economy Class. Checked bags are typically limited to a total dimension of 62 inches (157 cm) by adding length + width + height (example: 26"+26"+10" = 62" / 66cm+66cm+25cm = 157cm), and a maximum weight of 50 lbs (23 kg).
China – Intra-China flights have a weight restriction for luggage of 44 lbs. per piece of luggage with a limit of one piece of checked luggage per person, and 11 lbs. per piece of luggage with a limit of one piece of carry-on luggage per person. This differs from international flight luggage limits and should be taken into account when preparing for your trip. According to the Civil Aviation Administration of China, passengers may carry no more than two portable chargers with a capacity of less than 100 watt-hours (Wh) onboard. Each charger must bear the “CCC” mark (China Compulsory Certificate); chargers without this mark are not permitted. Chargers with a capacity between 100 and 160 Wh require airline approval. All electronic devices, as well as lithium or alkaline batteries, must be packed in carry-on baggage. Liquids, gels, and aerosols in carry-on baggage are subject to strict security screening requirements. Each liquid, gel, or aerosol must be in a container of 100 ml or less, and all containers must fit into one clear, resealable plastic bag with a maximum capacity of 1 liter. Only one item per type of liquid, gel, or aerosol product is permitted in carry-on baggage. Containers larger than 100 ml are not permitted in carry-on baggage and must be packed in checked luggage.
High Speed trains in China – Due to limited storage space on high-speed trains in China, only one piece of luggage (44 lbs / 20 kg) and one carry-on per passenger is permitted onboard for personal belongings. At some train stations, passengers are required to load and unload their own luggage. Passengers may carry no more than two portable chargers with a capacity of less than 100 watt-hours (Wh) onboard. All electronic devices, as well as lithium or alkaline batteries, must be packed in carry-on baggage. Liquids, gels, and aerosols in carry-on baggage are subject to strict security screening requirements. Each liquid, gel, or aerosol must be in a container of 100 ml or less, and all containers must fit into one clear, resealable plastic bag with a maximum capacity of 1 liter. Only one item per type of liquid, gel, or aerosol product is permitted in carry-on baggage. Containers larger than 100 ml are not permitted in carry-on baggage and must be packed in checked luggage.
Review the flight itinerary included in your documents. Print and carry a copy of the air itinerary which contains the 6-digit airline “Record Locator” and e-ticket numbers. Advance online check-in is available on some airlines. If available, you may enter your name and 6-digit Record Locator or Flight Ticket Number at the airline’s website, and print the boarding pass on your home printer within twenty-four hours of departure. You may check-in online, even if you plan to check luggage at the airport. Airlines without advance online check-in require you to present your identification and e-ticket numbers at the airport self-service kiosk or check-in counter. Paper tickets will be provided in the rare instance when e-tickets cannot be issued.
Due to increased security measures, you should plan to check in at least three hours prior to the scheduled departure time for international flights and two hours prior for domestic flights. Many airlines do not permit check-in less than one hour prior to the scheduled departure time. It is your responsibility to arrive on time for all scheduled flights. Enhanced security procedures, including passenger screening, canine inspection, and inspection of personal electronic devices, have been implemented for all flights into the United States, and therefore security procedures may take longer than normal.
If your flight itinerary displays a flight as “Operated By” another carrier, you should check-in at the desk of the “Operated By” airline. When you arrive at the airport, check the airport monitors for updated check-in desk listings. At check-in, be prepared to provide your government issued identification (valid passport required when traveling internationally) and your e-ticket itinerary/ticket numbers to the agent. Once you’ve checked in and received your boarding passes and luggage claim tickets, proceed directly to the security check. Security lines are often backed up and can take time to get through. Once you’ve completed security check, proceed directly to your gate and check the large electronic flight screens for your flight time and departure gate for schedule and gate changes. Airport desk clerks will assist with unexpected changes. Once you are in the gate area you can relax, shop or buy a snack before your flight.
Passengers connecting from another point within the USA should check their luggage through to their final destination. Although problems with lost luggage have been minimal, it is a possibility. Certain carriers do not allow baggage “interlining,” and luggage must be checked separately for each flight. When you check your luggage, please verify where your luggage is being sent. When connecting between flights in major airports, you may need to pass through multiple security checkpoints. Therefore, we recommend that you proceed immediately to the gate area for your connecting flight to avoid any unexpected delays which may cause you to be late. Passengers returning to the USA may need to collect their luggage at the first airport of entry and recheck their luggage for their connecting flight.
In the event that you miss your flight which departs as scheduled, for any reason, your airline will consider you a “no-show” and may resell your seat(s) to other customers. This will also result in the cancellation of any later flights in your itinerary. Similarly, if you voluntarily decide not to use any of the flights on your itinerary, the airline will consider you a “no show” and cancel remaining flights on your itinerary. In this case, please contact your airline immediately for assistance in getting you to your destination. Missed flights are typically fully non-refundable and you may be required to purchase new flights from the airline at your own expense.
If you are connecting from a domestic flight which is delayed for any reason, causing you to miss your international flight, ask the airline for assistance in getting you to your destination. Since all airline tickets are issued on special fares which carry restrictions and penalties if changed, it’s the airline’s responsibility to make alternate arrangements on your behalf. Portaltrip has no authority or control over airline activities and policies. Do not leave the airline check-in desk until an alternative itinerary has been confirmed.
If your luggage is lost or damaged by the airlines, a baggage claim form must be filed with the carrier before leaving the airport. Any cost to retrieve luggage will be your responsibility and you should retain receipts to submit to your insurance provider. You may be required to return to an airport to retrieve your luggage personally.
There are many types of Chinese visas. Choose a visa type that applies to your situation. If you are planning to go on a vacation in China, apply for a Tourist Visa (L Visa).
The following list of documents is required for any China visa application:
Along with the aforementioned generally required documents, several additional documents are required depending upon the type of China visa applied for. Check out the lists of required documents from the Chinese Embassy.
The applicant will submit the prepared materials to the embassy.
Starting in 2018, visa applicants from more and more countries (including the U.S., the UK, and Canada) have to make their visa application in person and have their fingerprints collected.
The fees vary enormously depending on your nationality and number of entries. Here we listed China visa prices for some countries for your reference. It may change based on the updated policies.
| Nationality | Number of Entries | Regular Application |
|---|---|---|
| US Citizens | Single Entry, Double Entries, Multiple Entries for 6 Months, Multiple Entries for 1 Year & above | USD 140 |
| UK Citizens | — | GBP 64 |
| Canada Citizens | — | CAD 100 |
| Australian Citizens | — | AUD 95–185 |
Generally, it takes about four working days to process a visa application.
When to apply for a visa: It is usually recommended that you apply for the visa one or two months before the intended travel.
China’s port visas are similar to the “visas on arrival” of some other countries.
Foreigners applying for port visas can either submit their applications in advance directly to the port visa authorities, or apply on-site upon arrival at Chinese ports.
To make the process smoother and avoid potential issues, it’s recommended that applicants submit their applications in advance to the port visa authorities in their intended destinations. This way, they can get preliminary approval before arriving at the ports to apply for visas.
Portaltrip is authorized to help you apply for the port visa (2+ travelers needed). You’re allowed to visit China for up to 30 days with just a US$100 visa service fee per person.
If your itinerary includes Tibet and Xinjiang, port visas are not applicable.
All visa applications cannot be guaranteed approval upon submission, as they are subject to final approval by the National Immigration Office. However, we have not yet received any disapprovals.
Both the original visa and a copy are needed when boarding your flight. Upon arrival, the immigration officer will take the copy, and when leaving China, they will collect the original.
Tipping is standard and widely expected for guided tours throughout China. We recommend a gratuity of $8 USD per guest, per day (equivalent to around 60 Chinese RMB). Though tipping is not legally required, it is a long-standing local custom to thank your tour guides, drivers, and supporting staff who deliver daily service during your trip.
You may pay tips in either US dollars or Chinese RMB directly to your local guide at the end of each destination segment. For most tour staff in China, gratuities make up a meaningful portion of their earnings.
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