11 Days China Family Tour: Beijing, Xi’an, Guilin, Shanghai

Day-by-day Itinerary

1. Day 1: Beijing Arrival

   Welcome to the capital city of China - Beijing! Upon your arrival, our representatives will give you a warm welcome at the airport. They will assist you with your transfer to your hotel.

   After checking into your hotel, take some time to relax and recover from your trip. Your family can explore the nearby area at your own pace.

   Meal: N/A

   Accommodation: in Beijing

2. Day 2: Beijing City Tour
   Visit the Royal Palace and Experience Hutong Culture

   After breakfast, your China family tour in Beijing begins at Tiananmen Square, one of the most iconic landmarks in Beijing and the world's largest public square, covering an area of 440,000 square meters. As you stroll through this vast space, appreciate the spectacular city gates and learn about its historical and cultural significance. Next, walk to the magnificent Forbidden City, also known as the Palace Museum. Marvel at its grandeur as you explore its palaces, halls, and courtyards, which were once the exclusive domain of Chinese emperors.

   

   After lunch, we will take your family to experience the charm of Beijing's traditional streets - Hutong. Hop on a traditional rickshaw and take a guided ride through narrow alleys where you can get a glimpse of the local way of life. Meet local people, visit local families, and learn more about their daily lives and traditions.

   Optional: If your kids are interested in Chinese calligraphy, we can arrange for you to visit a local home where you can try your hand at this ancient art form. Learn basic techniques and brushwork under expert guidance.

   Meal: Breakfast, Lunch

   Accommodation: in Beijing

   

3. Day 3: Beijing Great Wall Tour
   Take a Morning Tai Chi Class and Hike on the Great Wall at Mutianyu

   Early in the morning, start your day with an energetic Tai Chi class led by a professional instructor. Tai Chi is a traditional Chinese martial art and wellness practice characterized by slow, flowing movements and emphasis on deep breathing. It aims to balance both the internal and external aspects of one's well-being. Under the guidance of a skilled Tai Chi master, you'll explore its principles and movements, fostering balance, flexibility, and inner harmony.

   

   Afterwards, visit the Temple of Heaven, an architectural masterpiece from the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Be guided to explore its stunning complex of temples, renowned for its iconic Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests and the Circular Mound Altar, where emperors held important ceremonies.

   In the afternoon, you will be transferred to explore the Mutianyu Great Wall, one of the best-preserved sections of the Great Wall. You can take a cable car up to the wall, where you'll have ample time to stroll along the ancient fortification and immerse yourself in breathtaking views. To add excitement for your children, consider taking a thrilling toboggan ride down the Great Wall, providing a fun and exhilarating way to conclude your Great Wall adventure. However, if you prefer a return cable car journey, we can arrange that as well.

   Meal: Breakfast, Lunch

   Accommodation: in Beijing

   

4. Day 4: Beijing to Xi'an Tour by High-speed Train
   Spend a Leisure Time in the Imperial Summer Palace

   Spend the morning exploring the enchanting Summer Palace, a masterpiece of Chinese landscape design and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Wander among beautiful gardens, pavilions, and temples and admire the tranquil Kunming Lake. Your guide will share the history of this imperial retreat and the emperors who once enjoyed the palace away from the bustling city.

   

   In the afternoon, your family will be escorted to take a comfortable bullet train to Xi'an.

   Meal: Breakfast, Lunch

   Accommodation: in Xian

5. Day 5: Xi'an Historical Site Tour
   Make a Mini Terracotta Warrior on Your Own

   After breakfast, your family tour in Xian begins with a walk along one of the best-preserved city walls in China - the Ancient City Wall. You can stroll or rent a bike to explore this impressive fortification and enjoy panoramic views of the city.

   Next, drive about 1 hour to a UNESCO World Heritage Site - the world-famous Terracotta Warriors, which is one of the most important archaeological finds of the 20th century. Marvel at the life-size sculptures of the warriors buried with Qin Shi Huang, China's first emperor. Through your knowledgeable tour guide, you will have the opportunity to learn about the history and excavations of this incredible site.

   For a unique experience, your kids can try their hand at making your terracotta warriors under the guidance of a skilled craftsman. Make a mini version to take home as a personalized souvenir.

   Meal: Breakfast, Lunch

   Accommodation: in Xian

   

6. Day 6: Xi'an to Guilin Tour
   Explore the Culture through Witnessing Pagoda and Museum

   This morning, your children will enjoy a cultural tour to broaden their horizons. First, visit the Big Wild Goose Pagoda, a famous Buddhist cultural site from the Tang Dynasty and an outstanding representative of ancient architecture. Towering into the clouds, the pagoda stands at an impressive height of 64.5 meters with seven stories, preserving numerous Buddha statues and murals inside. Surrounded by beautiful gardens and sculptures, the Big Wild Goose Pagoda has a serene environment, offering a wonderful opportunity to experience ancient Chinese culture and history.

   Next, explore the Xi'an Museum, which houses a vast collection of artifacts and relics spanning thousands of years of Chinese history. You will admire ancient pottery, bronzes, sculptures, and exquisite artwork that offer insights into the region's rich cultural heritage.

   

   In the afternoon, take a flight from Xi'an to Guilin, a city renowned for its picturesque landscapes. Relax and prepare for the next journey.

   Meal: Breakfast, Lunch

   Accommodation: in Guilin

7. Day 7: Guilin Family Tour
   Immerse in Chinese Landscape Painting with Pebbles

   After breakfast at the hotel, your Guilin guide will pick you up and take you to the "Palace of Nature and Art", Reed Flute Cave, a unique landscape of karst caves. Here, stunning stalactites, stalagmites, and rock formations are illuminated with colorful lights. You will visit the "stone waterfall", "primitive forest", "Crystal Palace" and other landscapes.

   Then, your kids will be immersed in the art of Chinese landscape painting with pebbles from the Li River. Learn from a skilled artist who will guide you in creating your own unique artwork using this unconventional medium. They will discover the techniques and symbolism behind traditional Chinese painting and take home a one-of-a-kind masterpiece.

   

   In the afternoon, your China family tour continues to Daxu Ancient Town, a well-preserved riverside town with a history dating back over 1,000 years. Wander through its narrow streets, admire the traditional architecture, and soak up the charming atmosphere.

   Optional: If you're interested in learning Chinese, we can arrange a private lesson where you'll learn some everyday expressions to enhance your language skills (at an additional cost).

   Meal: Breakfast, Lunch

   Accommodation: in Guilin

8. Day 8: Guilin to Yangshuo Tour by Cruise
   Embark on a 4-hour Li River Cruise

   In the morning, your family will be escorted to embark on a 4-hour Li River Cruise guided by your tour guide. The Li River is renowned as one of the most beautiful rivers in the world. Relax as the boat leisurely navigates the river and appreciate the stunning scenery of the karst mountains, lush greenery, and picturesque villages along the banks. Capture some breathtaking family photos against the backdrop of this serene natural wonder.

   

   After the cruise, visit a local family in Gaotian Village to experience rural life in China. Observe how the locals carry out their farm work and get a glimpse into their daily routines. If you want, you and your kids can roll up your sleeves and join them in their activities, such as planting or harvesting crops. Alternatively, you can choose from other options such as Chinese cooking classes, rock climbing, or painting.

   After that, drive to your hotel in Yangshuo and relax by the swimming pool.

   Meal: Breakfast, Lunch

   Accommodation: in Yangshuo

9. Day 9: Yangshuo to Guilin, Guilin to Shanghai Tour
   Enjoy a Relaxing Countryside Cycling in Yangshuo

   Today, we arrange an enjoyable countryside riding experience for your family, with a riding distance of about 10 to 15 kilometers. During the ride, you will explore the scenic Yangshuo countryside through charming villages, rice paddies, and along the Li River. You can fully immerse yourself in the tranquility and natural beauty of the region!

   

   In the afternoon, you will be transferred back to Guilin and take a flight to Shanghai, a bustling metropolis that blends modernity and tradition.

   Meal: Breakfast, Lunch

   Accommodation: in Shanghai

10. Day 10: Shanghai Day Tour
    Capture the Modern Skyline across the Huangpu River

    After breakfast, start your Shanghai tour at Yu Garden, a classical Chinese garden dating back to the Ming Dynasty. Stroll through its elegant pavilions, winding paths, and tranquil ponds. Appreciate the elaborate landscaping and discover the harmony between architecture and nature.

    Next, head to the Bund, a historic waterfront promenade showcasing a blend of architectural styles. You will admire the grandeur of colonial architecture while enjoying panoramic views of the modern skyline across the Huangpu River.

    

    Then, you will experience the breathtaking views from the Shanghai Tower, one of the tallest skyscrapers in the world. Ascend the observation deck to overlook the vast cityscape of Shanghai and witness the impressive urban development of Shanghai.

    Enjoy a half-day custom experience in the afternoon. Whether you want to explore the local market, shop in trendy boutiques, or immerse yourself in Shanghai's vibrant art scene such as Tianzifang, your tour guide will be happy to arrange activities to suit your interests.

    Meal: Breakfast, Lunch

    Accommodation: in Shanghai

11. Day 11: Departure from Shanghai

    After breakfast, your private driver will escort your family to Shanghai airport. Your unforgettable 11-day China family tour comes to an end. Hope your family had a great time with us!

    Meal: Breakfast

    Accommodation: N/A