12 Days Yangtze River Classic Group Tour
From Forbidden City courtyards to Yangtze cliff faces, the tour weaves UNESCO sites, onboard cultural lectures, Fengdu folklore, and Shanghai art lanes into a single small-group experience that balances land exploration with leisurely river cruising and flexible evening activities.
Route:
Beijing-Xi'an-Chongqing-Yichang-Shanghai
- Tour Code: ITC-GT-022
- Guide: English Tour Guide
- Accommodation: 4-star Hotel
- More personal than a traditional coach tour, far better value than a private tour.
Price:
USD 2099
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
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.
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.
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
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
Clarissa
From Imperial Cities to the Yangtze: The Experiences I Remember Most
For me, the strength of this itinerary is the variety. You get imperial history in Beijing, ancient heritage in Xi’an, Chongqing’s mountain-city character, several days on the Yangtze, and Shanghai’s modern skyline—with enough hands-on and onboard experiences to break up the sightseeing.
I’ve traveled this route before, but this time the moments that stuck weren‘t the postcard views — they were the ones where I actually slowed down and let the place sink in.
Beijing delivered the classics. The Forbidden City at sunrise is still the best way to see it. Mutianyu with the cable car up gives you energy to walk the wall. But the surprise was wandering the hutongs — narrow lanes where old men play chess, women hang laundry, and life moves at a different pace. That’s the Beijing you don‘t find in guidebooks.
Xi’an was the Terracotta Warriors — still staggering, every face different. The night at Datang Ever Bright City, walking through those Tang-style buildings lit up, felt like stepping onto a film set. The water basin mutton at lunch was simple, hearty, exactly what you need after a morning of history.
Chongqing was a different kind of city — vertical, layered, built on hills. Liziba Station, where the monorail runs straight through a residential building, is not a gimmick; it’s just how this city moves. Hongya Cave at night, with its stilt houses stacked against the cliff, looked like something from a fantasy film. And the Yangtze cruise was the real shift. Three days of slowing down, watching gorges slide past, the water turning from brown to green, the cliffs rising higher than you expected.
Shanghai ended the trip differently — fast, polished, vertical. The Bund at sunset still delivers. Jade Buddha Temple was quiet, tucked away from the noise. Tianzifang‘s narrow alleys filled with boutiques and cafes were a reminder that even in China’s most modern city, there‘s still room for the unexpected.
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
Arrive in Beijing and transfer to the hotel
4+ stars 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--Jingshan Park--Summer Palace
4+ stars 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.
Then head to Jingshan Park, located just north of the palace. This lovely park offers a scenic retreat from the bustling city. You can climb to the top of the central hill for panoramic views of the Forbidden City and the Beijing skyline.
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:
You can choose foot massage, houhai night bars or Sanlitun bar street at night.
Watching Peking Opera Show, Kung fu Show or Acrobatic Show.
Great Wall--Bird Nest
4+ stars 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+ stars Hotels
Breakfast & Lunch
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+ stars 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--High Speed Train to Chongqing
4+ stars Cruise Ship
Breakfast & Dinner
Begin your day at the Xi'an Museum, a fascinating institution that showcases the rich history of the Shaanxi Province. The museum features a diverse collection of artifacts, including ancient ceramics, coins, and textiles.
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, board a high-speed train to Chongqing, arriving in the vibrant city known for its stunning river views and rich culinary scene. Then go for a Yangtze River Cruise.
Liziba--Shibati--Yangtze River Cableway--Hongya Cave, Afternoon Transfer to Yangtze River Cruise--Fengdu Ghost City
4+ stars Hotels
Breakfast & Lunch
After breakfast, begin your exploration of Chongqing, a vibrant mountain city famed for its unique geography and urban landscape. Your first stop is Liziba Station, where the light rail remarkably passes through a residential building—one of the most photographed sites in the city. Stand on the viewing platform and watch the monorail glide through the building like magic.
Next, we will visit Shibati (Eighteen Stairs), an old street district that preserves the memories of Chongqing’s past. Here, you can wander through steep stone steps, quaint alleys, and restored traditional buildings, offering a vivid picture of the city's pre-modern life.
Continue on to the Yangtze River Cableway, a must-try experience in Chongqing. Ride the cable car across the Yangtze River and enjoy a bird’s-eye view of the city's striking skyline, bridges, and river traffic—a perfect blend of natural and urban scenery.
After that, explore Hongya Cave, a stilted house complex built into a cliff, filled with local eateries, teahouses, and shops. The architecture resembles scenes from fantasy worlds, and at dusk, the entire structure lights up, making it one of the most iconic night views in China.
In the late afternoon, you will be transferred to the pier to board the Yangtze River Cruise. Settle into your cabin and get ready for a scenic and relaxing voyage along the legendary river. Tonight, the cruise will begin its journey downstream, heading toward Fengdu Ghost City, which you will visit the following day.
Evening Option:
After boarding the cruise, you may enjoy the welcome briefing and evening entertainment onboard. The ship often offers live music, traditional Chinese dance performances, or cultural lectures to enrich your river journey experience.
Yangtze River Cruise--Fengdu Ghost City
4+ stars Cruise Ship
Breakfast & Lunch & Dinner
Begin your day with a relaxing cruise on the Yangtze River, where you'll enjoy breathtaking views of the dramatic landscapes, lush hills, and picturesque villages along the waterway. You can practice Tai Chi to harmonize your body and mind with nature or attend lectures on the history and culture of the Yangtze River. In the evening, there will be a captain's welcome party and evening show on board.
Then visit Fengdu Ghost City, a fascinating site known for its temples and sculptures depicting Chinese beliefs about the afterlife. Explore the eerie yet intriguing attractions that reflect the local folklore surrounding ghosts and the afterlife
Then go to the Shuanggui Mountain, home to the stunning Xueyu Cave. This natural wonder features impressive stalactites and stalagmites, creating a mystical atmosphere.
Note:
Exploring Fengdu Ghost City requires a lot of walking, we recommend you wear comfortable shoes
White Emperor City(Optional)--Qutang Gorge--Wu Gorge
4+ stars Cruise Ship
Breakfast & lunch & dinner
Today you will sail through the Three Gorges of the Yangtze River. Travel through the Qutang Gorges and Wu Gorges.
You can also choose to the Baidi City . (Note: this city requires an additional fee)
Continue your journey through the magnificent Qutang Gorge, the shortest but most dramatic of the Three Gorges. Marvel at the towering cliffs and steep mountains that create a breathtaking natural landscape, often referred to as "the most beautiful gorge in the world."
Next, explore Wu Gorge, known for its serene beauty and lush greenery. The gorge is lined with picturesque peaks and ancient cliffs, making it an ideal spot for photography and relaxation.
In the evening there will be a Captain's Farewell Party and you will have a great night.
Three Gorge Dam--Yichang--High speed train/Flight to Shanghai
4+ stars Hotels
Breakfast
After breakfast, start your day with a visit to the impressive Three Gorges Dam, one of the largest hydroelectric power stations in the world. Explore the dam's visitor center to learn about its engineering marvels, environmental impact, and the history of the Yangtze River region. Enjoy panoramic views of the dam and surrounding landscapes.
After your visit, board a high-speed train to Shanghai. This comfortable journey will take you through scenic countryside and bustling cities.
Optional Activities:
Experience a voyage on the Three Gorges Dam Boat Lift. This is the world's largest and most complex shiplift, and in just 40 minutes, you can gain a deeper understanding of this great project.
Yuyuan Garden--Oriental Pearl Tower--Nanjing Road--the Bund
4+ stars 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).
Jade Buddha Temple--Tianzifang--Transfer to airport
4+ stars Hotels
Breakfast
After breakfast, check out of your hotel and enjoy a visit to the Jade Buddha Temple, known for its stunning jade statues.
Then Explore the artsy area of Tianzifang, filled with boutique shops and cafes.
Finally, we will provide you with a transfer to the airport or train station for your departure, taking with you cherished memories of your classic journey through China.
Travel Date and Price (USD per person)
| Month | Available Date | Price | Book The Tour |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sep | Sep 09,2026 | USD2567 USD2317 | Book Now >>> Content us >>> |
| Oct | Oct 12,2026 | USD2567 USD2317 | Book Now >>> Content us >>> |
| Oct 26,2026 | USD2567 USD2317 | Book Now >>> Content us >>> | |
| Nov | Nov 09,2026 | USD2567 USD2317 | Book Now >>> Content us >>> |
| Nov 23,2026 | USD2567 USD2317 | Book Now >>> Content us >>> | |
| Dec | Dec 07,2026 | USD2466 USD2216 | Book Now >>> Content us >>> |
| Dec 14,2026 | USD2466 USD2216 | Book Now >>> Content us >>> |
Included & Excluded
From USD 2099 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
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
What Our Clients Say?
Based on 10,000+ traveler reviews
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
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
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
