Tailormade Journeys

China Between Ancient and Avatar Mountains

11Days 10Nights  •  From Beijing to Shanghai
5Experienced by 278 travelers
Frominfo
$1580per person
invoicePrice varies according to customization
energyBook by 1 day in advance
checkFree cancellation up to 7 days before the tours starts
checkFree customization - adjust your trip as you wish, with no fees from us
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Overview

This journey builds on China's classic first-time route by adding Zhangjiajie, one of the country's most visually dramatic natural destinations. Travelers experience Beijing's imperial landmarks, Xi'an's Terracotta Warriors, the pillar-like peaks often associated with Avatar Mountains, Tianmen Mountain, and Shanghai's modern skyline. It is a strong choice for travelers who want China's cultural icons plus a truly memorable landscape.

HIGHLIGHTS

starCombine China's classic cultural icons with Zhangjiajie's dramatic mountain scenery.
starExplore imperial Beijing, ancient Xi'an, Avatar-like peaks, and modern Shanghai.
starAdd a powerful natural contrast to the classic China route without losing the cultural core.

TRAVEL STYLE & SERVICE

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Tailor-Made Itinerary
Adjusted based on your dates, interests, pace, and preferred destinations.
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Flexible Daily Schedule
Sightseeing order, free time, and activity balance can be modified.
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Hotel Options Available
Hotels can be selected or upgraded by location, style, room type, and budget.
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Flexible Transportation Options
You may choose private car service, high-speed rail, or a combination of both depending on your travel style and itinerary design.
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Guide Service on Request
Guides can be arranged for selected days or throughout the full journey.

WHAT'S INCLUDED

Accommodation
Selected 4-star hotels or similar category based on itinerary standards.
Transportation Arrangements
Private vehicle service, transfers, and selected high-speed rail journeys as outlined in the itinerary.
Guide Service (Selected Days)
English-speaking guide service on selected days where specified.
Entrance Tickets & Experiences
Tickets and activities included in the itinerary are pre-arranged.
Travel Planning & Support
Itinerary planning, booking coordination, and local travel support.

OPTIONAL ADD-ONS

Hotel Upgrades & Special Requests
Room upgrades, special room types, or premium hotel selections based on your preferences.
Additional Private Guide Service
Extra English-speaking guide service for full-day or extended support during your trip.
Extra Transportation Services
Additional private car service, long-distance transfers, or customized travel arrangements beyond the itinerary.
Dining & Restaurant Reservations
Restaurant bookings including local specialties, fine dining, or curated culinary experiences.
Cultural & Local Experiences
Tea ceremonies, cooking classes, calligraphy workshops, and other immersive cultural activities.

Your Itinerary

This itinerary combines China's most iconic cultural destinations with the dramatic landscapes of Zhangjiajie, creating a balanced journey between heritage, nature, and city experiences. Carefully arranged with a comfortable pace, the route allows time to explore historic landmarks, immerse in local culture, and experience one of China's most extraordinary natural wonders.

DAY 1BEIJING

Beijing, China

Arrival in China's northern capital

Arrive in Beijing and transfer to your hotel. Keep the first day light, with time to rest and adjust after the flight.

AccommodationAccommodation
  • Hotel 4* in Beijing
LandmarksLandmarks
  • Beijing Airport
  • Wangfujing
  • Central Beijing
DAY 2BEIJING

Beijing, China

Forbidden City and old Beijing

Explore Tiananmen Square, the Forbidden City, and nearby hutongs with your private guide. The day gives context for China's imperial history and Beijing's old city layout.

AccommodationAccommodation
  • Hotel 4* in Beijing
LandmarksLandmarks
  • Tiananmen Square
  • Forbidden City
  • Jingshan Park
  • Hutongs
DAY 3BEIJING

Beijing, China

A full day with the Great Wall

Visit the Great Wall at Mutianyu or another suitable section, with time for walking, photography, and views over the surrounding mountains. Return to Beijing for a relaxed evening.

AccommodationAccommodation
  • Hotel 4* in Beijing
LandmarksLandmarks
  • Great Wall at Mutianyu
  • Beijing countryside
DAY 4BEIJING · XI'AN

Xi'an, China

Southwest toward the ancient capital

Visit the Temple of Heaven or Summer Palace before traveling to Xi'an by high-speed train or flight. Arrive and settle into the old capital.

AccommodationAccommodation
  • Hotel 4* in Xi'an
LandmarksLandmarks
  • Temple of Heaven
  • High-speed Train
  • Xi'an City Wall area
DAY 5XI'AN

Xi'an, China

Terracotta Warriors and city walls

Visit the Terracotta Warriors, one of China's most important archaeological discoveries. Return to Xi'an for the City Wall, Bell Tower area, and local food streets.

AccommodationAccommodation
  • Hotel 4* in Xi'an
LandmarksLandmarks
  • Terracotta Warriors
  • Xi'an City Wall
  • Muslim Quarter
DAY 6XI'AN · ZHANGJIAJIE

Zhangjiajie, China

From ancient capitals to mountain landscapes

Fly to Zhangjiajie and transfer to the hotel. Depending on arrival time, enjoy a simple orientation or rest before the scenic days ahead.

AccommodationAccommodation
  • Hotel 4* in Zhangjiajie or Wulingyuan
LandmarksLandmarks
  • Zhangjiajie
  • Wulingyuan Scenic Area
DAY 7ZHANGJIAJIE

Zhangjiajie, China

Pillar peaks and forested valleys

Explore Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, including Yuanjiajie and Tianzi Mountain where the famous sandstone pillars rise above forested valleys. The day is designed around viewpoints and walking sections that match traveler energy.

AccommodationAccommodation
  • Hotel 4* in Zhangjiajie or Wulingyuan
LandmarksLandmarks
  • Zhangjiajie National Forest Park
  • Yuanjiajie
  • Tianzi Mountain
DAY 8ZHANGJIAJIE

Zhangjiajie, China

Tianmen Mountain and the sky road

Visit Tianmen Mountain, known for its cableway, cliffside walkways, and the natural arch of Tianmen Cave. Weather conditions may shape the pacing and exact route.

AccommodationAccommodation
  • Hotel 4* in Zhangjiajie
LandmarksLandmarks
  • Tianmen Mountain
  • Tianmen Cave
  • Glass Walkway optional
DAY 9ZHANGJIAJIE · SHANGHAI

Shanghai, China

From mountains to the coast

Fly to Shanghai and transfer to the hotel. Enjoy an evening at leisure around the Bund or the Former French Concession.

AccommodationAccommodation
  • Hotel 4* in Shanghai
LandmarksLandmarks
  • Shanghai
  • The Bund
  • Former French Concession
DAY 10SHANGHAI

Shanghai, China

Old gardens and modern skyline

Explore Yu Garden, the Old City area, the Bund, and Pudong's skyline. The route balances historic Shanghai and its modern global character.

AccommodationAccommodation
  • Hotel 4* in Shanghai
LandmarksLandmarks
  • Yu Garden
  • The Bund
  • Pudong
  • Nanjing Road
DAY 11SHANGHAI

Shanghai, China

Departure or optional extension

Enjoy a flexible final day before departure. Longer versions can add Suzhou, Hangzhou, or a water town.

AccommodationAccommodation
  • Not included unless late departure requires day-use room
LandmarksLandmarks
  • Shanghai Airports
  • Suzhou optional
  • Hangzhou optional

Where you'll Stay

All accommodations can be adjusted to your preferences and budget. The following are provided for your reference.

Recommendations

OPARTMENT The Far Eastern Hotel

Shanghai,China

Recommendations

ANYU Hotel - Dali Ancient Town

Dali,Yunnan,China

Recommendations

Sofitel Legend People's Grand Hotel Xian

Xi'an, Shaanxi, China

Optional experiences.

These experiences could make your trip even more rewarding.

Experiences

Morning exercise in an imperial courtyard

Beijing, China

Experiences

Join local residents for evening square dancing

Shanghai, China

Experiences

Gyantse Nyangchu Manor House

Dali,China

Ask Our Journey advisor

Jason

Jason

Journey Advisor
We'll respond within 1 hour

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