11 Days Beijing Xi'an Zhangjiajie Shanghai Group Tour

Spanning Beijing to Shanghai via Xi’an and Zhangjiajie, the trip balances UNESCO heritage sites with dramatic natural landscapes, offering small groups an immersive experience that includes Peking duck, glass skywalks, ancient town boat rides, and flexible evening activities.

Route: Beijing-Xi'an-Zhangjiajie-Shanghai
  • Tour Code: GT-BXZS-11
  • Guide: English Tour Guide
  • Accommodation: 4-star Hotel
  • More personal than a traditional coach tour, far better value than a private tour.
Price: USD  1901  per person
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Notes:Prices may vary depending on the season and promotional activities. Please consult your advisor for details.

Why Choose lnto Explore China Group Tour

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Worry-Free Travel
With years of experience in group travel across China, we provide professional tour guides, comfortable coaches, and well-paced itineraries for a smooth and enjoyable journey.
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Itineraries with Great Value
Our tours cover China's most iconic sights and cultural highlights. All packages are clearly priced with no hidden costs, offering a high-quality experience at a competitive rate.
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No Shopping Stops
We guarantee a truly immersive journey with no shopping stop. Spend more time exploring scenic spots, enjoying authentic food, and discovering local culture
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Travel with Flexibility
Whether you're traveling solo, with friends, or as a family, you can easily join us. Enjoy better value than private tours with small groups of 6-12 people and year-round departures.

Experience

expert avatar
Clarissa

Where Ancient China Meets Dramatic Mountain Landscapes

I’d choose this itinerary if you want a mix of China’s imperial history and dramatic natural scenery. The biggest highlight is the contrast between the Great Wall, Xi’an’s ancient sites, Zhangjiajie’s mountains and Shanghai’s modern cityscape.

What I enjoyed most about this trip was that some of the best moments weren’t simply about looking at famous sights. In Xi’an, I had the chance to walk or cycle along the Ancient City Wall, seeing the old city from above while moving at my own pace. It felt very different from visiting another museum or historical building.

Zhangjiajie brought a completely different kind of experience. Instead of just photographing the mountains, I took the glass elevator in Yuanjiajie, followed the mountain paths, and later descended Tianzi Mountain by cable car with layers of peaks and mist outside the window. The next day, the Glass Skyway and Ghost Valley Trail at Tianmen Mountain added a more adventurous side to the journey.

Shanghai offered a much slower experience. At Qibao Ancient Town, I could stop for local snacks such as glutinous rice balls and crabapple cakes, watch traditional shadow puppetry and Pingtan, and take an oar-propelled boat along the river. After several days of major landmarks and mountain scenery, this was a nice opportunity to slow down and experience a more traditional side of Shanghai.

Itinerary

Explore each day’s highlights, pace, routes, hotels, meals, and photos—so you know exactly what to expect along the way.

Route Map Full route

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Arrive in Beijing and transfer to the hotel

4+ star hotels

None

Upon your arrival in Beijing, you will be warmly greeted by our professional guide at the airport. After a brief introduction, you’ll be transferred to your hotel, where you can relax and settle in after your journey. Enjoy a leisurely evening at your hotel or explore the nearby area at your own pace.

Arrival Tips

As an international aviation hub, Beijing is connected to many cities around the world by direct flights. In addition, you can also choose to arrive in Beijing conveniently by high-speed train, such as from Shanghai (about 5-6 hours), Xi'an (about 5.5 hours) and Guangzhou (about 8-9.5 hours).

Tian'anmen Square--Forbidden City--Summer Palace

4+ star hotels

Breakfast&Lunch

The Tiananmen Square: This iconic location is steeped in history and has been the site of numerous significant events in China's past. Here, you can see the towering Monument to the People's Heroes and the Mao Zedong Memorial Hall, where the embalmed body of Chairman Mao is housed. 

Next, walk through the impressive Tian'anmen Gate to enter the Forbidden City, a UNESCO World Heritage site and the former imperial palace of the Ming and Qing dynasties. This grand complex consists of over 980 buildings, showcasing exquisite traditional Chinese architecture and a rich collection of art and artifacts. 

At noon you will go to Quanjude to taste the famous Peking Duck.

Conclude your day with a visit to the Summer Palace, another UNESCO World Heritage site. This vast imperial garden features beautiful lakes, lush hills, and stunning pavilions. The palace served as a retreat for emperors during the hot summer months. 

Recommended Activities

1.You can choose foot massage, houhai night bars or Sanlitun bar street at night.

2.Watching Peking Opera Show, Kung fu Show or Acrobatic Show.

Great Wall--Bird Nest

4+ star hotels

Breakfast&Lunch

 

Start your day with a visit to the Mutianyu Section of the Great Wall, one of the best-preserved and less crowded parts of this iconic structure. Stretching over 2,500 meters, Mutianyu boasts stunning views of the surrounding mountains and lush greenery. As you ascend, either via a scenic cable car ride or a brisk hike, you'll be captivated by the wall’s impressive watchtowers and breathtaking scenery. This section features both steep and gentle paths, making it accessible for visitors of all fitness levels. 

Bird's Nest and Water Cube: Conclude your day with an exterior visit to these iconic Olympic structures, symbolizing modern Beijing.

Recommended Dinner

You can choose foot massage, houhai night bars or Sanlitun bar street at night.

Watching Peking Opera Show, Kung fu Show or Acrobatic Show.

 

Temple of Heaven--Hutongs--High speed Train to Xi'an

4+ star hotels

Breakfast

Begin your day at the Temple of Heaven, a stunning architectural complex where emperors of the Ming and Qing dynasties once prayed for good harvests. Stroll through the gardens, where you can see locals practicing tai chi and enjoying traditional games.

Next, venture into Beijing's historic hutongs, the narrow alleyways that showcase traditional Chinese living. As you wander through these charming neighborhoods, you'll encounter quaint courtyards, local shops, and teahouses. This is a perfect opportunity to interact with residents and gain insight into the everyday life of Beijingers.

After immersing yourself in Beijing's culture, you'll board a high-speed train to Xi'an, a journey of approximately five hours. Sit back and relax as you travel comfortably to one of China's oldest cities. 

Terracotta Warriors and Horses--Da Ci'en Temple--Big Wild Goose Pagoda--Grand Tang Dynasty Ever Bright City

4+ star hotels

Breakfast&Lunch

 

Terracotta Warriors and Horses: Visit the world-famous archaeological site and witness the impressive army of life-sized warriors. Over 8,000 life-size terracotta figurines, horses and chariots were buried underground for over 2,000 years until they were discovered in 1974.

Lunch: Delight in Xi'an's specialty dish, water basin mutton (Shuipen Yangrou).

Da Ci'en Temple: Explore this historic temple complex. This temple was a famous translation site of Buddhist scriptures during the Tang Dynasty. 

Big Wild Goose Pagoda: Admire this iconic Buddhist pagoda, a symbol of Xi'an. If you are interested, you can climb the Big Wild Goose Pagoda (extra charge applies) for a great view of the city.

Grand Tang Dynasty Ever Bright City: Enjoy a vibrant evening in this lively area. It is a unique Tang Dynasty cultural theme imitation complex in China, where you can enjoy rich singing and dancing performances and charming night scenery.

Xi'an Museum--Small Wild Goose Pagoda--Ancient City Wall--Flight to Zhangjiajie

4+ star hotels

Breakfast

 

Begin your day at Xi'an Museum, where you can explore fascinating exhibits that showcase the rich history and culture of Shaanxi Province, including artifacts from ancient dynasties.

Next, visit the Small Wild Goose Pagoda, a lesser-known but equally charming pagoda that dates back to the Tang dynasty. Learn about its historical significance as a site for Buddhist study and practice.

Afterward, explore the Ancient City Wall, one of the best-preserved city walls in China. Stretching over 13 kilometers, it offers stunning views of both the old and new parts of Xi'an. You can walk or bike along the wall, immersing yourself in the city's historical atmosphere while enjoying panoramic vistas.

In the Afternoon, you will take a flight from Xi'an to Zhangjiajie. Upon arrival, get ready to discover the stunning natural beauty of this UNESCO World Heritage site.

Zhangjiajie National Park--Yuanjiajie Scenic Area--Tianzi Mountain

4+ star hotels

Breakfast

 

Begin your adventure in Zhangjiajie National Park, famous for its towering sandstone pillars and lush landscapes. This stunning park served as inspiration for the floating mountains in the movie Avatar.

Next, head to Yuanjiajie Scenic Area, where you'll take a scenic glass elevator to the top for breathtaking views of the unique rock formations, including the iconic Hallelujah Mountain. Wander through the pathways and enjoy the stunning vistas.

Conclude your day at Tianzi Mountain, known for its impressive peaks and panoramic views.

Finally take the Tianzishan cable car slowly down, outside the window are layers of mountains, clouds and mist, as if through the fairyland.

Your guide and driver will transfer you to the hotel next to the forest park.

Tianmen Mountain--Flight to Shanghai

4+ star hotels

Breakfast

 

Start your day at Tianmen Mountain, a stunning natural landmark known for its breathtaking views and unique attractions.

Visit Tianmen Temple, perched on the mountain, where you can admire the serene architecture and scenic surroundings.

Walk along the exhilarating Glass Skyway, a transparent pathway that offers thrilling views of the cliffs and valleys below.

Explore the Ghost Valley Trail, renowned for its dramatic landscapes and steep drop-offs, providing an adrenaline-pumping experience as you navigate the narrow pathways.

Conclude your mountain adventure at Tianmen Cave, a natural hole in the mountain that offers spectacular views and a sense of wonder.

After an exhilarating day, catch your flight to Shanghai, where new adventures await!

Notice

If you don't want to walk the 999 steps, there's a more relaxing option for you: you can take the convenient escalator. But please note that there is an additional charge of RMB 35 per person for this.

Yuyuan Garden--Shanghai World Financial Center--Nanjing Road--the Bund

4+ star hotels

Breakfast&Lunch

 

Begin your day at Yuyuan Garden, a beautiful classical Chinese garden known for its exquisite landscaping, traditional pavilions, and tranquil ponds. 

Next, visit the iconic Oriental Pearl Tower. Ascend to the observation deck for stunning views of Shanghai's skyline and the Huangpu River, capturing the city's energy from above.

Stroll down Nanjing Road, Shanghai's premier shopping destination. This bustling thoroughfare features a blend of high-end boutiques and local shops, making it ideal for both shopping and experiencing the city's lively atmosphere.

Conclude your day with a leisurely walk along the Bund. Here, you'll be treated to breathtaking views of the historic waterfront and the dazzling skyline, especially enchanting as the lights begin to twinkle at dusk.

Idea for Evening Activities

Take a night cruise on the Huangpu River and enjoy the beauty of the city at night (about 50 minutes).

Qibao Ancient Town--Jade Buddha Temple--Tianzifang--Wukang Road

4+ star hotels

Breakfast&Lunch

 

After breakfast, head to Qibao Ancient Town. This thousand-year-old water town, located in Minhang District, Shanghai, preserves the quintessential Jiangnan charm with its black-tiled roofs, gray bricks, and small bridges over flowing streams. Strolling along the old streets, you can savor piping-hot Qibao glutinous rice balls and crabapple cakes, or pause to enjoy shadow puppet shows and Pingtan (a traditional storytelling and ballad-singing art form). The Puhuitang River flows through the town, and a leisurely boat ride on an oar-propelled boat allows you to watch the reflections of teahouses and taverns ripple with the waves, as if time has stood still here.

Next, visit the Jade Buddha Temple, one of Shanghai’s most renowned Buddhist temples, named after the two exquisite jade Buddha statues from Myanmar that it enshrines. The Grand Hall of the Great Sage is solemn and majestic, with the jade Buddhas radiating a crystal-clear and compassionate aura. The temple is filled with the fragrance of incense and the sound of Buddhist chants, transforming the hustle and bustle of the city into tranquility. If your visit coincides with the first or fifteenth day of the lunar month, you can witness devout believers praying for blessings, feeling the power of faith.

In the afternoon, explore Tianzifang, an artistic district transformed from Shikumen (stone-gate) alleyways, embodying the essence of Shanghai’s literary and creative spirit. Narrow alleys are lined with designer studios, independent cafes, and vintage shops, and you might stumble upon a graffiti mural or a hidden teahouse around every corner. Sip a cup of hand-drip coffee and watch the sunset bathe the old houses in gold from a terrace, where the collision of old and new Shanghai comes vividly to life.

Conclude the day with a leisurely walk along Wukang Road, often dubbed the “most beautiful road in Shanghai.” Lined with French plane trees and historic Western-style villas, this peaceful boulevard offers a glimpse into the city’s colonial past and contemporary elegance. Stop by the iconic Wukang Mansion, admire the timeless façades, and enjoy the chic boutiques and cafes tucked behind ivy-covered walls. It’s the perfect setting to unwind and reflect on Shanghai’s unique blend of nostalgia and modern flair.

Hotel--Airport transfer

None

Breakfast

After breakfast, enjoy some free time and arrange your activities flexibly according to your flight schedule.

Check out at noon and head to the airport. Along the way, look back at the skyline of the "Magic City," with the Oriental Pearl Tower and the skyscrapers of Lujiazui fading into the distance. This journey may have taken away the scenery in your camera, but the chimes of the Bund, the aroma of coffee in the alleyways, and the soft dialect of the ancient town have all become unforgettable memories of Shanghai.

Travel Date and Price (USD per person)
Month Available Date Price Book The Tour
Sep Sep 09,2026 USD2206 USD1956
Oct Oct 12,2026 USD2206 USD1956
Oct 26,2026 USD2206 USD1956
Nov Nov 09,2026 USD2206 USD1956
Dec Dec 07,2026 USD2151 USD1901

Included & Excluded

From USD 1901 per person
  • The price is based on two people sharing a double room. If you prefer a single room, please contact us for a quote.
  • Price may vary depending on exchange rates, travel dates, and hotel class.
  • Prices may vary depending on the season and promotional activities. Please consult your advisor for details.
Price Includes:
  • Comfortable hotel with daily breakfast (twin room)
  • Professional English-speaking local tour guide
  • Air-conditioned private coach throughout the tour
  • Entrance tickets to all listed attractions and activities
  • Lunches as specified in the itinerary
  • Domestic flights and high-speed train tickets
  • One travel accident insurance per person
Price Excludes:
  • International flights to and from China
  • Airport transfer to hotel on arrival day (Day 1)
  • Optional or recommended activities
  • Chinese visa application fees
  • Tips for guides and drivers
  • Meals not mentioned in the itinerary
  • Personal expenses (e.g. shopping, laundry, hotel minibar)

Cancellation Policy

We understand that travel plans may change. Please review our cancellation policy below:
  • Free cancellation if canceled 60 days or more before the tour starts
  • 5% of total tour cost if canceled 45-59 days before departure
  • 10% of total tour cost if canceled 30-44 days before departure
  • 25% of total tour cost if canceled 15-29 days before departure
  • 45% of total tour cost if canceled 7-14 days before departure
  • 100% of total tour cost if canceled less than 7 days before departure
Date of Arrivial

Please select a travel date first

total: USD 0

Q & A

Asked by Aldrich Sophy from France | July 15,2025 17:07
Can we walk the entire Wukang Road, or is it too long?
Answered by intotravelchina | July 15,2025 17:36
It’s a leisurely walk—stroll past French plane trees and historic villas, stopping at cafes or boutiques along the way.
Asked by Ford Truman from Canada | July 15,2025 16:45
What’s a must-try snack in Qibao Ancient Town?
Answered by intotravelchina | July 15,2025 17:36
Don’t miss the glutinous rice balls and crabapple cakes—they’re local favorites in this thousand-year-old water town.
Asked by Cora Gray from US | July 15,2025 16:29
Are the “floating mountains” from Avatar really visible in Zhangjiajie National Park?
Answered by intotravelchina | July 15,2025 17:36
Yes! Yuanjiajie Scenic Area inspired the movie’s floating peaks—you’ll see the iconic Hallelujah Mountain during your visit.
Asked by Eli Butler from Germany | July 15,2025 16:15
What’s the best evening activity after Day 2’s tours? I love nightlife!
Answered by intotravelchina | July 15,2025 16:21
We recommend Houhai night bars or Sanlitun bar street for a lively evening—both are popular spots to experience Beijing’s nightlife.
Asked by Tiffany Carroll from Germany | July 15,2025 14:52
I’ve heard the Forbidden City is huge. Do we get to see all the main spots on Day 2, or just a few?
Answered by intotravelchina | July 15,2025 16:20
On Day 2, you’ll get to explore the main highlights of the Forbidden City, which is a vast complex with over 980 buildings. While it’s impossible to see every single corner in one visit, our itinerary ensures you experience its most iconic spots—such as the Hall of Supreme Harmony (the imperial throne room), the Hall of Central Harmony, the Hall of Preserving Harmony, and the Inner Court areas that offer insight into imperial life.

What Our Clients Say?

Based on 10,000+ traveler reviews
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Daniel Dorothea
Canada
Reviewed on April 29,2025
Shopping on Nanjing Road in Shanghai was just amazing! It's truly the "First Commercial Street of China", where tradition and modernity blend perfectly. You can find awesome souvenirs and experience the trendy vibes in cool stores. The neon lights at night are just spectacular, shining bright like Times Square in New York. The food here is incredible too. I had a feast for my taste buds. Shanghai, I'll definitely be back!
Destination(s): Shanghai
Date of Experience: May 08,2024
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Elvis Eva
Canada
Reviewed on June 20,2025
As a solo traveler from Canada, I was nervous about navigating China alone—but this 11-day tour was PERFECT! From hiking the Great Wall at sunrise (Day 3) to gasping at the Terracotta Army (Day 5), every day delivered ‘pinch-me’ moments. The real showstopper? Zhangjiajie’s Avatar Mountains (Day 7)! Our guide made the stone pillars come alive with stories. Massive thanks for handling all logistics—bullet train tickets, entry passes, car! And the 4-star hotels surprised me.
Destination(s): Beijing Xian Zhangjiajie Shanghai
Date of Experience: June 02,2025
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Simon
America
Reviewed on May 29,2025
Our 2-day Zhangjiajie tour was beyond spectacular! As someone who’s visited Beijing and Shanghai for work, this trip revealed China’s wild, magical heart. Day 1 in Zhangjiajie National Forest Park felt like stepping onto Pandora—I’m a huge Avatar fan, and Yuanjiajie’s floating peaks left me breathless. The misty pillars and lush valleys like pure movie magic! Then came Fenghuang Ancient Town, we eat dinner beside the thundering waterfall. It seems Unreal! The night views of stilt houses glowing over the river were straight from a fairy tale. For fellow Avatar lovers and adventure seekers: Don’t miss this bucket-list experience! 10/10 would return. A Well-Traveled Film Buff, May 2025
Destination(s): Zhangjiajie
Date of Experience: May 08,2025
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