17 Days China Diverse Tour with Tibet & Zhangjiajie Avatar Exploration

Welcome to the capital city of China! Upon arriving at the airport/train station, you will be met by your local tour guide, and then drive to your downtown hotel in Beijing City. After the hotel check-in, you are free to take a rest or explore around on your own.

Arrival Ideas: As China's top transportation hub, Beijing has frequent flight connections to almost every provincial capital and major tourist city across the country, with major cities like Shanghai, Xi'an, and Chengdu within 2~3 hours. Internationally, it is directly connected to global hubs such as Singapore, London, New York, Tokyo, and Sydney. It also serves as the core of China's high-speed rail network, with express trains to Shanghai (4.5-6 hrs), Xian (4-6 hrs), Guangzhou (7.5-8 hrs), Chengdu (7.5-10 hrs), Chongqing (7-9 hrs), Hong Kong (8 hrs) etc.

China has more than 4000 years' imperial history, while Beijing stands as guardian of its most majestic imperial legacies and cultural heritage. Today your guide will pick you up in the hotel after your breakfast, then start the wonderful ancient China culture and history tour!

You will firstly get to the world's largest plaza - Tian'anmen Square. The grandiose Tian'anmen Gate was the place where the chairman Mao announced the establishment of the People's Republic of China to the world. Passing through Tiananmen Gate, you will enter the splendid Forbidden City, the previous home to 24 emperors of Ming and Qing Dynasties for 600 years. Magnificent architectures, intricate ornaments and touching legends make it a must-see of China.

After exploring the Forbidden City, a short walk leads you to Jingshan Park. Ascend the hill to its summit pavilion, and you'll be rewarded with the most iconic bird's-eye view of the Forbidden City. This unparalleled vantage point allows you to fully grasp the majestic scale and layout of the imperial city you've just explored.

In the afternoon, head to visit the exquisite Summer Palace, a masterpiece of Chinese imperial garden design and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Originally a royal summer retreat during the Qing Dynasty, this vast landscape harmoniously blends lakes, hills, pavilions, temples, and corridors into a poetic expression of nature and architecture. The palace grounds are divided into three main areas: Front Hill, Back Hill, and Kunming Lake. At the heart of the garden lies the expansive Kunming Lake, where you can admire the graceful Seventeen-Arch Bridge and take in views that embody the classic Chinese ideal of “borrowed scenery.”

After the sightseeing, you will be taken back to your hotel for rest.

Optional Recommended Night Activities: 1) Watch an exciting acrobatic show featuring incredible feats of strength, balance, and agility; 2) Enjoy a famous Peking Opera Show at Liyuan Theater.

Hiking the Great Wall is a once-in-a-lifetime experience for most travelers. Today, you will accomplish this dream. You will be escorted approximately 70km from downtown Beijing to the world-famous Mutianyu Great Wall, a section known for having fewer tourists than Badaling Great Wall, and widely considered the best for appreciating the beautiful scenery. Your journey begins with an enclosed cable car ride to Watchtower No. 14, the starting point of your hike. Walking westward, you will pass historic watchtowers and be rewarded with sweeping, photo-worthy vistas. The path is generally moderate and family-friendly, though those seeking a challenge can ascend Great Man Slope to Watchtower No. 20, the highest point, for truly unparalleled views. After your exploration, return to Watchtower No. 14 to descend by the enclosed cable car.

Optional Toboggan Experience: For an adventurous end to your Great Wall visit, you may choose the exciting toboggan slide down from Watchtower No. 6 (available to visitors under age 60). Note that there might be a queue, especially during peak seasons like Chinese holidays.

After your hike on the Mutianyu Great Wall, you'll begin your journey back to the city. En route, you'll visit the solemn Ming Tombs, the imperial burial complex for 13 emperors of the Ming Dynasty. Here, you will walk the Sacred Way, a 7-kilometer ceremonial path lined with majestic stone statues of 12 mythical animals and 12 officials. This path was symbolically regarded as the route through which the emperor, the Son of Heaven, traveled between the celestial realm and the earthly throne. To cap off the day, a stop will be made at the Beijing Olympic Village, where you can capture photos of the world-famed "Bird's Nest" and the"Water Cube" from the outside before proceeding to your hotel.

After breakfast, you'll visit one of the greatest masterpieces in Chinese architectural history - the Temple of Heaven. This was the sacred site where Ming and Qing emperors performed solemn rites to pray for national prosperity and bountiful harvests. Today, the vast outer park has transformed into a lively public space where locals practice Tai Chi, fly kites, and socialize, while the serene inner sanctuary remains a preserved historic site, offering a window into China's profound ancient culture and cosmology.

Later move on to visit the most famous Hutongs which are some old alleys with time-honored courtyard residences dated back to Yuan Dynasty (1271–1368 AD). Exploring these lanes offers an immersive glimpse into the authentic local lifestyle. You can browse quaint antique shops and boutiques while observing the architectural evolution of these historic neighborhoods, and may also have the opportunity to step into a local family’s courtyard home, gaining a personal insight into their daily traditions and contemporary lifestyle.

After the lunch, you will have some free time until be taken to catch a high speed train to Xian (about 5 hours). Our local guide will be waiting for you in Xian North Railway Station and escorting you to your hotel in Xian. The rest of day is free for you to explore the ancient city on your own.

After breakfast, drive about 40 km to witness what is acclaimed as the "Eighth Wonder of the World" - the Terracotta Warriors and Horses. This monumental, man-made wonder was created and buried to guard the tomb of Qin Shihuang, China's First Emperor, for his afterlife. The site features over 8,000 life-sized terracotta soldiers and horses with different looks, alongside a vast array of bronze weapons. Together, they form a complete subterranean military formation, meticulously recreating the formidable might of the Qin Dynasty army from more than 2,000 years ago.

Optional hands-on activity: Craft your own miniature Terracotta Warrior under the guidance of a local potter.

Following lunch, return to Xian to visit Da Cien Temple, a significant center for Buddhist scripture translation during the Tang Dynasty. Within its grounds stands the iconic Giant Wild Goose Pagoda, erected by the revered monk Xuanzang (玄奘) to safeguard the precious Buddhist texts he brought back from India. At 64.5 meters tall, the pagoda remains an enduring symbol of faith and cultural exchange along the Silk Road. (extra cost: CNY 30 applies for those who wish to climb up the pagoda)

As evening falls, you will explore the Grand Tang Dynasty Ever Bright City. This vibrant cultural district is especially enchanting after dark, when elegant lighting illuminates its Tang-style architecture, evoking the splendor of one of China's most celebrated dynasties. It’s an ideal place for a leisurely stroll, photography, and immersing yourself in the atmospheric legacy of the Tang.

Optional activities: 1) Try on traditional Hanfu and capture your imperial look for a memorable photoshoot; 2) Watch the spectacular Tang Palace Dance Show (usually 8:00 PM - 9:00 PM)

Start today's Xian tour with a visit to the Small Wild Goose Pagoda, an elegant 43.4-meter-tall brick pagoda with multiple eaves, originally built with 15 storeys during the Tang Dynasty and now preserved with 13. Remarkably, the pagoda has withstood numerous earthquakes over its 1,300-year history while maintaining its elegant silhouette, thanks to its partially buried rammed-earth foundation. It's a testament to the sophisticated seismic wisdom of Tang builders. Adjacent to the pagoda lies the Xi'an Museum, home to a rich collection of over 130,000 cultural artifacts including jade, ceramics, Buddhist statues, and other treasures that narrate the city's profound history.

Next, explore the Ancient City Wall, once a silent witness to the camel bells of the Silk Road. Enterng through the historic Hanguang Gate and walking atop the wall is like stepping into a corridor where past and present converge. This magnificent Ming Dynasty fortification, stretching approximately 13.74 kilometers in length, stands as the largest and best-preserved ancient city wall in China. From the broad walkway of the wall, you are treated to a sweeping panoramic view of modern Xi’an. For a more active experience, opt to rent a bicycle (extra cost: CNY 45) for a scenic ride, with flexible routes tailored to your interest. After that, move to Muslim Quarter, a place to satisfy your stomach with various delicious local snacks. Just steps away, tucked behind the lively market lanes, lies the serene Great Mosque, China's largest and best-preserved classical mosque. Its courtyards and pavilions perfectly blend traditional Chinese architecture with Islamic function and art.

At the conclusion of the visit, you will be escorted back to your hotel for a well-deserved rest.

After breakfast, you'll be escorted to the airport and take a flight to Lhasa (about 3.5 hours). Upon arriving at Lhasa Gongga Airport, you will be picked up by local tour guide at the airport hall, then be escorted to your hotel in Lhasa city in a private vehicle. The rest of the day is free for you to explore the local areas and acclimatize yourself to the air, temperature and high altitude of Lhasa.

High Altitude Acclimation Tips:1) go for some leisure walking to acclimate the high altitude but avoid strenuous activity after arrival; 2) you'd better not have bath, in case of catching a cold; 3) drink more water, and have some fruit; 4) have a good rest.

Today, you will explore Lhasa’s city and suburban attractions accompanied by your local guide, gaining deep insight into Tibetan history and culture. Your journey will begin at the Tibet Museum, where carefully curated exhibits trace the region’s past from the Paleolithic era to the rise of early civilization. Highlights include ancient stone tools and pottery, exquisite Buddhist statues, vivid Thangka paintings, and invaluable relics such as gold seals and traditional manuscripts. Next, visit Norbulingka, the summer palace of Lhasa. This expansive garden complex, filled with rare flowers and lush greenery, is often called the “Plateau Oxygen Bar.” Beyond its elegant Tibetan-style architecture, Norbulingka is also a vibrant cultural venue, hosting major Tibetan celebrations and performances, most notably the traditional shows during the annual Shoton Festival (June 30th in the Tibetan calendar, lasting about a week).

In the afternoon, head to Sera Monastery, one of Lhasa’s most renowned monasteries, famous for its daily Buddhist debating sessions. In the courtyard, monks engage in animated debates on Buddhist philosophy, using expressive gestures to sharpen understanding and deepen their studies-an unforgettable cultural experience. After enjoying the "Buddhism Debating", you will be transferred back to the city.

Optional Activity: If there is extra time, it is highly recommended to watch the outdoor live performance of Princess Wencheng at evening. Princess Wencheng Show, performed usually during 21:30~23:00 (late April to Early October), presents the Chinese and Tibetan history and culture through the story that Princess Wencheng of Tang Dynasty married Songtsen Gambo 1,300 year ago. Since the performance is outdoors and the nighttime temperatures in Lhasa are relatively low, please make sure to dress warmly in advance.

The Etiquette of Visiting Monastery: 1) you shouldn't wear short and uncover shoulders; 2) taking off your sunglasses and hat before entering the monastery; 3) taking photos and videos are usually not allowed inside the monastery.

Start today's cultural heritage journey from the Potala Palace Square, where you can admire the grandeur of Potala Palace and capture classic photos of its magnificent front facade. From here, continue to the landmark - Potala Palace, an outstanding symbol of Tibetan architecture mainly composed of the White Palace and the Red Palace with many cherished cultural heritages. After entering the gate of Potala Palace, you need to walk up about 30 minutes along the zigzag stone paths with white-and-red walls to the White Palace. Remember to ascend the steps slowly and take some stops for sightseeing and rest which will be helpful to reduce high altitude sickness. Then you will explore the palace in an orderly way from the White Palace to the Red Palace with explanations accompanied by your local guide. After exploring Potala Palace, enjoy a leisurely walk through Zongjiao Lukang Park, a scenic lakeside park located behind the palace. Here, you can experience authentic local life, often seeing Tibetans gathering for singing and dancing, chatting, exercising, and walking kora. On clear days, the lake also offers beautiful reflections of Potala Palace.

Continuing your exploration, you will then get to Jokhang Temple, widely regarded as the spiritual heart of Lhasa and the most sacred religious site in Tibet as it enshrines the revered Jowo Rinpoche, a life-sized (about 1.5 meters / 5 feet) statue of Shakyamuni Buddha depicting him at the age of twelve. In the square before the temple, you will witness devoted pilgrims performing full-body prostrations, gradually polishing the stone flagstones beneath them-a deeply moving and unforgettable sight. The day’s exploration concludes at Barkhor Street, the bustling circular street that surrounds Jokhang Temple. The local Tibetans usually walk clockwise on the street for several circles, as part of their daily pilgrimage. Lined with lively shops and stalls, Barkhor Street is also an excellent place to browse for traditional Tibetan handicrafts and local specialties, offering a vibrant glimpse into both the spiritual and everyday life of Lhasa.

Optional Activity: If your physical strength permits, you can take a short climb to the Chakpori Hill Viewing Platform, which is precisely the location featured on the back of China's fifth series 50-yuan banknote. From this platform, you can appreciate the terraced architecture of Potala Palace ascending the mountainside.

Tips of today: 1) Potala Palace (3,700m) is situated at a higher elevation than the average city altitude (3,650m) and requires climbing many steps, so please walk slowly and take breaks as needed; 2) taking photos, videos and wearing hats are not allowed in the palace; 3) today you will be mainly outside, please bring some water, a hat, sun cream, and sun glasses with you.

Today is free for you until you are transferred to the airport in time for your flight to Chengdu (about 2~3 hours). Upon arrival at the airport, your local guide will meet and escort you to your downtown hotel. The rest of today is free at your leisure to explore this leisure city.

Free-time Evening Ideas: 1) Visit the Jiuyanqiao area to enjoy beautiful night views along the river, highlighted by the iconic Anshun Bridge, especially charming after sunset when the lights reflect on the water. 2) Wander through Chunxi Road and Taikoo Li area, where historic streets blend seamlessly with modern fashion, cafés, and shopping malls, offering a glimpse into Chengdu's vibrant urban life. 3) Treat yourself to an authentic Sichuan cuisine dinner at a local restaurant and discover the bold flavors that make Chengdu a UNESCO City of Gastronomy.

Chengdu is known for its three iconic features: giant pandas, rich history, and a relaxed lifestyle. Today, you will explore these highlights one by one.

Your day begins with a visit to the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, the top attraction in the city. You will leave your hotel early and enjoy a scenic drive of about 30 minutes to arrive in time to witness the most active moments of the pandas. Watch them feeding, playing, climbing trees, and interacting with one another. The base features well-designed enclosures for pandas of different ages, from adorable cubs to energetic juveniles and fully grown adults. Pleasant walking paths connect the enclosures, allowing you to enjoy a close and memorable encounter with these beloved animals.

Next, experience Chengdu's famous leisurely lifestyle at Renmin Park (People's Park), a favorite gathering place for locals. Here, you can observe residents enjoying a slow-paced life—strolling, chatting with friends, playing games, or relaxing in a traditional teahouse with a cup of tea.

After that, visit the historic Wuhou Temple, one of Chengdu's most important cultural landmarks, dedicated to Zhuge Liang of the Three Kingdoms period. Surrounded by ancient cypress trees, the temple features elegant traditional architecture, stone inscriptions, and peaceful courtyards, offering a deep insight into Sichuan's rich history and culture. Adjacent to the temple is Jinli Old Street, where you can continue your exploration at leisure. Wander along this lively traditional street, sample local snacks, browse souvenir shops, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of old Chengdu.

Optional Evening Activity: Enjoy a fascinating Sichuan Opera performance, featuring the famous Face-Changing (Bian Lian) art, at a local theater for a perfect cultural finale to your day.

After breakfast, you will be met at your hotel and begin a comfortable 2-hour drive from Chengdu to Leshan. Your destination is the awe-inspiring Leshan Giant Buddha, a UNESCO World Heritage Site carved directly into a towering cliff overlooking the river below.

Dating back to AD 713, this colossal statue stands 71 meters tall, making it the largest stone Buddha in the world. Its immense proportions are truly remarkable—from its broad head and elongated ears to its massive feet and toes. Even the smallest details, such as a single fingernail, surpass the height of an average adult. The Buddha was originally created to bring peace and protection to local boatmen navigating the once-turbulent waters. Despite more than 1,300 years of exposure to the elements, the statue remains remarkably intact, thanks to an ingenious internal drainage system designed to reduce erosion.

Your will first hike a bit to the mountain top to enjoy a commanding view of the Buddha's head and upper body, then descend along the narrow stone stairway carved into the cliff, gradually approaching the statue's feet for an impressive close-up perspective. During peak travel periods, some waiting time may be required to access the stairway.

After exploring the site on foot, enjoy a 30-minute boat cruise on the river, providing a spectacular panoramic view of the Giant Buddha from the water—an ideal angle to fully appreciate its monumental scale.

Once your visit concludes, you will transfer back to Chengdu, arriving in the late afternoon.

Please note: boat services are subject to river conditions, weather, and other operational factors and may be suspended if conditions are unfavorable.

The morning is yours to enjoy at leisure. In the afternoon, you will be escorted to the railway station to board the high-speed train to Zhangjiajie (about 4~5.5 hours). Upon arrival, your local guide will be waiting in the station arrival hall, and then transfer directly by private vehicle to your hotel in Wulingyuan, where the guide will assist with check-in. The rest of today is on your own to explore this fabulous city in China.

Wake up in the peaceful morning, and go to have breakfast in your hotel, then you will be taken to start your Zhangjiajie Adventure. Depart for Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where you will explore its core scenic zones: Ten-mile Gallery, Yuanjiajie, and Tianzi Mountain.

Begin with a scenic tram ride along the Ten-mile Gallery. You pass iconic formations such as the Longevity God Greeting Guests, the Old Herb Gatherer, and the Three Sisters Peaks, with each rock telling its own ancient tale. You will take the tram in and back, saving time for the day ahead.

Next, take the 326-meter-high Bailong Elevator (the tallest and the fastest in the world) in just 1.5 minutes to the top of beautiful Yuanjiajie where the Hollywood movie Avatar created the incredible Avatar world based on the landscape here. There is the Ecstasy Terrace where you can sweep over hundreds of distinct peaks rising through the mist. Then head to the First Bridge Under Heaven, a natural stone arch spanning two cliffs, which is a rare geological wonder.

A short sightseeing bus ride brings you to Tianzi Mountain. At Helong Park, admire the elegant Yubi Peak up close. For those with energy to spare, venture further to Warrior Training Horse, where rows of rugged peaks resemble a soldier holding the reins of a proud stone steed. Your visit culminates with a breathtaking cable car descent.

Optional Evening Show: Enhance your evening with the acclaimed Tianmen Fox Fairy Show, a spectacular open-air musical drama staged against the natural backdrop of Tianmen Mountain. (Performance time: 20:15-21:50)

After breakfast, your guide and driver will pick you up for today’s highlight - Tianmen Mountain, famous for its record‑breaking cableway and the iconic Tianmen Cave.

Your adventure starts with the Tianmen Mountain Cableway, the world’s longest single‑loop alpine cable car. In about 30 minutes, it lifts you from downtown Zhangjiajie to the summit at over 1,400 meters, offering stunning aerial views of the winding Tongtian Avenue (Avenue toward Heaven) below.

Follow the West Line (Looking for a Wonderland) along the mountain. The highlight here is the thrilling Guigu Cliffside Path, a glass‑and‑wood walkway clinging to the precipice. The route ends at the historic Tianmen Mountain Temple, a Tang‑Dynasty structure perched at the peak.

From the temple, you may choose to continue along the East Line (Jasper Terrace) toward Yuhu Peak. Alternatively, take the optional forest sightseeing cable car (Extra fee: CNY 25/person one‑way) to Yunmeng Fairy Summit, the mountain’s highest lookout, then descend on foot to the Upper Station of the Transmountain Escalator.

Board the long Transmountain Escalator down to the colossal Tianmen Cave, a natural arch 131.5 meters high, carved by ancient geological forces. Below the cave, you’ll descend the famous 999‑step “Stairway to Heaven” (slope up to 45°). Finally, ride the Tianmen Mountain Express Cableway to the mountain gate, then transfer by shuttle bus back to the Tourist Center, where your guide and driver will meet you.

The first place to visit for today is the Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Center where multiple media, such as photography, models, videos, machines, etc, are used to help visitors to learn about the past history, present facts and future plan of Shanghai. Then come to the next site - Jade Buddha Temple which has the largest jade Buddha in the world and numerous religious artifacts, ancient statues and Buddhist scriptures. It is a pure land hidden in the crowded and modern metropolis. In this Chinese Zen-Buddhist temple, you can take a view of the featured Song-style architectures and watch the people praying - quite distinctive from the atmosphere of Tibetan monasteries you will see.

The rest of today is your free time until your tour guide and driver escort you to catch your flight/train leaving Shanghai.

Today, your wonderful Shanghai journey starts with a visit to Lujiazui and take a look at Shanghai at present. If the weather is clear, ascending to the tallest skyscraper in China - Shanghai Tower and overlooking from the view deck on the 118th floor, a prosperous and majestic Shanghai will reveal its true face in front of you.

Your next stop is Shanghai Museum East. It is one must-see attraction in Shanghai famed for its countless treasured cultural collections, including bronze, ceramics, paintings, calligraphy, jade, seal and some other shining exhibits, tracing back to as long as 5,000 years ago. This charming museum will guide you through the craft of millennia as well as the pages of Chinese history.

After exploring Chinese old history, you will be driven to Yu Garden. The private garden built in Ming Dynasty fully shows the architecture and design style of classical Chinese gardens with delicate pavilions, clear ponds and artificial hills. Next, you will walk leisurely through the Yuyuan Bazaar, located right next to the Yu Garden, which is full of tasteful local snacks and elaborate traditional Chinese handicrafts and art works.

Then, stroll along Nanjing Road, and you will be surprised how this paradise for shoppers satisfy your shopping demand. At the east end of the road appears the famous Bund, the symbol of Shanghai situated in the river bank of Huangpu River. Walk along the Bund, feel the perfect fusion of Chinese culture and Western culture, and seize the stunning Shanghai skyline with your own eyes.

Optional Recommended Night Activity: take an enjoyable ship cruise on the Huangpu River to enjoy the beautiful night view of Shanghai.

The first place to visit for today is the Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Center where multiple media, such as photography, models, videos, machines, etc, are used to help visitors to learn about the past history, present facts and future plan of Shanghai. Next, head to Tianzifang, a charming arts and crafts district that emerged from the transformation of a traditional residential area. Wander through its narrow, picturesque alleys, where you can experience the vibrant life of Shanghai locals, enjoy a drink at an outdoor café, or explore unique shops that blend international styles with authentic Shanghai culture.

The rest of today is your free time until your tour guide and driver escort you to catch your flight/train leaving Shanghai.