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18-Day Classic China Tour with Yunnan
This 18-day classic China tour with Yunnan connects China’s famous ancient capital cities with the breathtaking landscapes of South China.
Walk the Great Wall, explore the imperial Forbidden City, and discover the Terracotta Warriors in Xi’an. Continue to Guilin for a scenic Li River cruise, one of the most scenic river cruises in China.
In Yunnan Province, visit the remarkable Stone Forest, explore Lijiang Old Town, and admire Jade Dragon Snow Mountain and Tiger Leaping Gorge. This well-designed China tour blends history, culture, and dramatic natural scenery across the country.
18 Days / 17 Nights
China’s classic highlights and Yunnan Province landscapes.
Beijing → Xi’an → Guilin → Yunnan → Shanghai
The most popular China tour route.
Private Tour Experience
Professional tour guide, private transport, flexible pace.
Ideal for First-Time Visitors
A complete journey across China’s cultural heritage..
What Makes This Journey Different
A Hong Kong–registered travel group
Backed by a Hong Kong group, with local teams across China.
Secure payments
Pay safely by Visa, MasterCard, Apple Pay, PayPal, or bank transfer.
24/7 support
Real human assistance before, during, and after your journey in China.
Custom experiences
Activities and pacing tailored to your interests and travel style.
18-Day China & Yunnan Tour Route
| Days | Destination | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1–2 | Shanghai | The Bund, Yu Garden, Shanghai Tower, Shanghai World Financial Center |
| Day 3–4 | Guilin & Yangshuo | Li River cruise, Elephant Trunk Hill, West Street, rural countryside |
| Day 5 | Kunming | Stone Forest, Yuantong Temple |
| Day 6–7 | Dali | Dali Old Town, Xizhou Village, Erhai Lake |
| Day 8–9 | Lijiang | Lijiang Old Town, Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, Black Dragon Pool, Naxi culture |
| Day 10–11 | Shangri-La | Tiger Leaping Gorge, Songzanlin Lamasery |
| Day 12–13 | Chengdu | Giant pandas, Sichuan cuisine experience |
| Day 14–15 | Xi’an | Terracotta Warriors, Ancient City Wall, Big Wild Goose Pagoda |
| Day 16–18 | Beijing | Forbidden City, Great Wall, Summer Palace |
How This Journey Is Seamlessly Connected
This 18-day classic China tour with Yunnan connects major destinations across South China and Yunnan Province, including Shanghai, Guilin, Kunming, Lijiang, Shangri-La, Chengdu, Xi’an, and Beijing.
Travel between cities combines economy class flights, high-speed trains from major railway stations, and private transfers with an experienced tour guide.
This efficient route allows travelers to explore highlights of ancient China, including the Forbidden City, Terracotta Warriors, and the Great Wall, while discovering the landscapes of Yunnan Province.
Domestic Flights for Longer Distances
High-Speed Trains for Shorter Routes
Signature Experiences of This China & Yunnan Tour
Experience the best of ancient China, South China landscapes, and Yunnan’s diverse cultures through carefully selected moments that make this journey truly unforgettable.
Discover the Historic Town of Daxu
Step into Daxu Ancient Town, a quiet riverside settlement along the Li River. Walk through centuries-old streets, visit a local family, explore a traditional Chinese medicine clinic, and experience an authentic rural market.
Li River Cruise — China’s Most Scenic River Journey
Relax on a spectacular Li River cruise, widely regarded as one of the most scenic river cruises in the world. Admire the iconic karst mountains and spot the famous landscape printed on the 20-yuan banknote.
Explore the Villages of Rural China
Leave the tourist trail and visit peaceful villages near Yangshuo. Meet farmers, experience local food and countryside life, and discover a genuine side of rural China.
The Terracotta Warriors — China’s Greatest Archaeological Wonder
Explore the incredible Terracotta Warriors at the Terracotta Army Museum, a life-sized underground army built over 2,000 years ago during the Qin Dynasty.
Jade Dragon Snow Mountain Cable Car Experience
Ride a cable car to the breathtaking Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, rising above 4,500 meters. Enjoy panoramic alpine views and one of the most dramatic natural landscapes in Yunnan Province.
Experience Naxi Culture in an Ancient Village
Visit an ancient Naxi village near Lijiang Old Town, meet a local family, learn the fascinating Dongba characters, and listen to traditional Naxi music.
Discover Tibetan Culture in Shangri-La
Visit the magnificent Songzanlin Lamasery, the largest Tibetan monastery in Yunnan. Learn about Tibetan Buddhism and experience the spiritual atmosphere of Shangri-La.
Explore Hidden Corners of the Forbidden City
Go beyond the main halls of the Forbidden City and discover hidden courtyards and stories of China’s ancient emperors in this magnificent palace of the Ming Dynasty.
Walk the Great Wall with Stunning Mountain Views
Visit a scenic and less crowded section of the Great Wall, enjoy a cable car ride, and walk along one of the greatest engineering achievements of ancient China.
Suggested Itinerary
Below is a suggested 18-day classic China tour with Yunnan itinerary.
All tours are private and customizable, allowing you to adjust destinations, activities, and pacing according to your travel interests.
DAY 1 Shanghai Arrival
Welcome to Shanghai.
Your private tour guide will meet you at the airport and transfer you to your hotel in a comfortable private vehicle. The rest of the day is free for you to relax after your international flight.
DAY 2 Shanghai Highlights
Breakfast & Lunch
Begin your China tour with Shanghai’s iconic landmarks. Visit Yu Garden, a beautiful example of Ming Dynasty architecture, and explore the lively Yuyuan Market nearby.
Continue to the Shanghai World Financial Center or Shanghai Tower for panoramic city views. End the day with a walk along The Bund, Shanghai’s famous waterfront promenade.
DAY 3 Shanghai to Guilin – Daxu Ancient Town
Breakfast & Lunch
Fly to Guilin in the morning.
Visit Daxu Ancient Town, a historic trading town along the Li River. Wander through quiet streets lined with ancient style buildings and experience a glimpse of traditional life in rural China.
Later visit Elephant Trunk Hill, Guilin’s most iconic natural landmark.
DAY 4 Li River Cruise to Yangshuo
Breakfast & Lunch
Enjoy a scenic Li River cruise, widely regarded as one of the most scenic river cruises in the world.
Admire the spectacular karst mountains and peaceful countryside landscapes as the river flows from Guilin to Yangshuo. After arrival, explore Yangshuo’s lively West Street.
DAY 5 Yangshuo Countryside Experience
Breakfast & Lunch
Discover the villages of rural China. Visit a local family and experience traditional countryside life.
Travel across small ferries and local markets where villagers trade daily goods, offering a unique insight into the authentic lifestyle of South China.
Later travel to Kunming by high-speed train.
DAY 6 Kunming – Stone Forest
Breakfast & Lunch
Visit the remarkable Stone Forest, a fantastic natural phenomenon created by ancient limestone formations.
In the afternoon, explore Yuantong Temple, the largest and oldest Buddhist temple in Kunming.
DAY 7 Kunming to Dali – Erhai Lake
Breakfast & Lunch
Take a high-speed train to Dali.
Visit Xizhou Village to discover the architecture and traditions of the Bai minority. Later enjoy a relaxing cruise on the beautiful Erhai Lake.
DAY 8 Dali to Lijiang – Lijiang Old Town
Breakfast & Lunch
Travel to Lijiang, one of the most picturesque ancient towns in China.
Explore the UNESCO-listed Lijiang Old Town and visit Black Dragon Pool Park, famous for its postcard views of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain.
DAY 9 Jade Dragon Snow Mountain & Naxi Culture
Breakfast & Lunch
Take a cable car up Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, one of the most spectacular landscapes in Yunnan Province.
Later visit Baisha Village, where you will meet a Naxi family and learn about the fascinating Dongba culture.
DAY 10 Lijiang to Shangri-La – Tiger Leaping Gorge
Breakfast & Lunch
Drive to Shangri-La with a stop at Tiger Leaping Gorge, one of the deepest gorges in the world where the powerful Jinsha River rushes through steep mountains.
Continue to Shangri-La, located at an altitude of over 3,000 meters.
DAY 11 Shangri-La – Tibetan Culture
Breakfast & Lunch
Visit Songzanlin Lamasery, the largest Tibetan monastery in Yunnan Province, often called the “Little Potala Palace”.
In the afternoon explore the pristine landscapes of Pudacuo National Park.
Later fly to Chengdu.
DAY 12 Chengdu – Sichuan Cuisine Experience
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Visit People’s Park to see local life and traditional tea culture.
Later join a hands-on Sichuan cooking experience, where a professional chef will guide you in preparing authentic Sichuan cuisine.
DAY 13 Chengdu – Pandas and Opera
Breakfast & Lunch
Visit the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding to see giant pandas at their most active time.
In the afternoon, enjoy a behind-the-scenes experience at a traditional Sichuan Opera.
Later travel to Xi’an by high-speed train.
DAY 14 Xi’an – Terracotta Warriors
Breakfast & Lunch
Visit the famous Terracotta Warriors at the Terracotta Army Museum, a life-sized underground army built over 2,000 years ago.
Later explore the impressive Xi’an Ancient City Wall.
DAY 15 Xi’an Museum & Small Wild Goose Pagoda
Breakfast & Lunch
Visit the historic Small Wild Goose Pagoda and nearby Xi’an Museum, which showcases the long history of this ancient capital city.
Later travel to Beijing by high-speed train.
DAY 16 Forbidden City & Summer Palace
Breakfast & Lunch
Explore Tiananmen Square and the magnificent Forbidden City, the former imperial palace of China.
In the afternoon visit the beautiful Summer Palace, the best-preserved royal garden in China.
DAY 17 Great Wall of China
Breakfast & Lunch
Visit the scenic Mutianyu section of the Great Wall, famous for its spectacular mountain views.
Enjoy a cable car ride and walk along one of the most iconic landmarks of ancient China.
Later visit the historic Temple of Heaven.
DAY 18 Beijing Departure
Breakfast
Your guide will transfer you to the airport for your departure flight.
Your unforgettable 18-day China tour with Yunnan comes to an end.
Hotel Options & Location
We select clean, quiet, and well-located hotels to keep transfers short and rest quality high. Exact hotel names are confirmed after booking and tailored to your style.
- 4-star comfort in the best locations (standard).
- 5-star / star hotel upgrades or boutique hotels on request.
- Family rooms or connecting rooms available (subject to availability).
Tip: Share your preferences (location, breakfast, gym/pool, quiet rooms) and we’ll recommend the best match.
Tour Price & Inclusions
FromUS$5,169
per person
Tour Code:CHN-18D-CY1
- Indicative price for a private tour (2 adults) with well-located 4-star hotels.
- Price includes basic travel insurance and a complimentary translation device for easy local interaction.
- Final pricing depends on travel dates, group size, room type, and hotel level (boutique / star hotel upgrades on request).
- Domestic flights and/or high-speed train tickets are arranged based on the confirmed itinerary.
Comfort-first private touring
Private guide & driver in each city — flexible pace.
Designed around you
We tailor sights, timing, and hotel level to you.
Clear pricing, no surprises
Inclusions confirmed before you book.
What’s Included
Private air-conditioned vehicle with professional driver for all scheduled transfers
English-speaking local guide for all included sightseeing
All entrance tickets and activities listed in the confirmed itinerary
Domestic flights and/or high speed train tickets between itinerary cities (as per plan)
Hotel accommodation with daily breakfast (4-star standard; boutique hotels / star hotel upgrades optional)
Government taxes and service charges
24/7 support while you are traveling
What’s Not Included
International flights to and from China
China visa fees (if applicable)
Meals not specified in the itinerary (many lunches are included; dinners often flexible)
Personal expenses and optional experiences
Booking & Payment Details
- Deposit: 20% to confirm your booking. The deposit is refundable within 48 hours after confirmation if plans change.
- Balance: Due 15–20 days before arrival, or upon confirmation for late bookings.
- Payment methods: Visa, MasterCard, Apple Pay, PayPal, or bank transfer.
- Changes: Free minor itinerary adjustments up to 14 days before the trip starts.
- Cancellation: Flexible cancellation policy. Specific terms will be confirmed based on travel dates and hotel selection.
Visa-Free & Travel Tips
- Visa-Free Entry to China — check if your passport is eligible.
- How to Visit China Without a Visa — 144-hour transit options.
- eSIM & Mobile Payments in China — WeChat Pay, Alipay and bank cards.
- China Weather by Month — plan around seasons and festivals.
Get Your Custom 18-Day China & Yunnan Tour Plan
Share a few details — we’ll send you a personalized China tour itinerary and quote within 24 hours.
- Reply within 24 hours
- Private tour only
- No forced shopping
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the typical tour cost for this 18-day China tour?
The tour cost varies depending on hotel level and group size. Most packages include private transportation, an English-speaking tour guide, entrance tickets, and meals such as breakfast and lunch.
How do travelers move between cities on this China tour?
Travel between destinations is arranged by economy class flights and high-speed trains departing from major railway stations, ensuring efficient travel across South China and Yunnan Province.
What are the cultural highlights of the Yunnan part of the tour?
In Yunnan Province, travelers explore Lijiang Old Town, visit Baisha Village, and learn about the mysterious Dongba culture of the Naxi people.
What historical sites are included in the itinerary?
This journey visits many landmarks connected with major historical events, including the Forbidden City, the Great Wall, the Terracotta Warriors, and the Small Wild Goose Pagoda in Xi’an.
What natural landscapes will travelers see during the tour?
Travelers experience spectacular scenery including the Li River cruise, Stone Forest, Tiger Leaping Gorge, and Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, some of the most famous landscapes in South China.
Is this China tour suitable for first-time visitors?
Yes. This itinerary connects the major highlights of ancient China and modern cities, making it an ideal introduction to China’s history, landscapes, and cultures.
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