15-DAY Classic China Tour With Yangtze Cruise

Starting on a 15-day classic China tour with a Yangtze River cruise presents travelers with an unparalleled opportunity to enjoy the country’s rich cultural heritage and iconic landmarks. From the grandeur of the Forbidden City to the awe-inspiring Terracotta Warriors, this thorough itinerary promises an unforgettable exploration of China’s most enchanting destinations. Complemented by immersive cultural experiences, such as a traditional tea ceremony and a regional cooking class, the tour offers a well-rounded perspective on the nation’s vibrant history and traditions. As the journey unfolds, travelers can expect to be mesmerized by the stunning landscapes of the Yangtze River and entertained by the energy of Shanghai’s acrobatics show, leaving them enthusiastic to explore deeper into the wonders that await.

This experience made our list of the 25 Best Cruises And Boat Tours In Beijing.

Key Points

• A 15-day comprehensive tour covering China’s iconic sights, including the Forbidden City, Terracotta Warriors, and the Great Wall.
• Unique cultural experiences like a Yangtze River cruise, a traditional tea ceremony, calligraphy lesson, and regional cooking class.
• Acrobatics performance in Shanghai and other evening entertainment options to enhance the culture.
• Efficient transportation mix using high-speed trains, private car transfers, and the Yangtze River cruise.
• Positive customer reviews highlighting excellent service, knowledgeable guides, and seamless organization of the tour.

Tour Overview and Highlights

Spanning 15 days, this classic tour of China immerses travelers in the nation’s most iconic sights and cultural experiences.

From the majestic Forbidden City in Beijing to the breathtaking Terracotta Warriors in Xian, the itinerary showcases UNESCO World Heritage Sites and other renowned attractions.

Cruising along the Yangtze River and exploring the charming towns of Guilin and Yangshuo add unique perspectives to the journey.

Throughout the tour, travelers can participate in immersive cultural activities, including a traditional tea ceremony, calligraphy lesson, and regional cooking class.

Whether it’s marveling at the Great Wall or witnessing an acrobatics performance in Shanghai, this extensive tour offers an unforgettable exploration of China’s rich heritage and stunning landscapes.

Detailed Itinerary

The tour begins with arrival in Beijing, where travelers are greeted at the airport and transferred to their hotel.

Over the next 15 days, the itinerary covers major highlights across China:

1. Immerse in Beijing’s storied history by exploring Tiananmen Square, the Forbidden City, and the Mutianyu section of the Great Wall.

2. Journey to Xi’an to marvel at the Terracotta Army and the Grand Tang Dynasty Ever Bright City.

3. Cruise along the scenic Li River from Guilin to Yangshuo, surrounded by the iconic karst landscapes.

4. Sail down the Yangtze River, taking in the stunning Three Gorges region before concluding the tour in cosmopolitan Shanghai.

Pricing and Tour Options

The Classic China Tour is priced starting from $4,249.00 per person, with pricing varying based on group size.

Travelers have the flexibility to choose from similar tour options, including a 15-day Beijing-Xian-Guilin-Chengdu-Chongqing-Yangtze-Shanghai tour from $3,539.00 and a 12-Day Golden Triangle Cities & Yangtze River Cruise priced at $3,499.00.

Private tours are also available, such as the 16-Day Essence Tour from $4,579.00.

Discounts may be offered for early bookings or larger groups.

The tour’s cancellation policy allows free cancellation on select tours, though some may be non-refundable.

Daily Itinerary Breakdown

The 15-day Classic China Tour begins with an airport pick-up and hotel check-in, allowing travelers to enjoy free time on the first day.

The itinerary then unfolds as follows:

1. On Day 2, the tour explores iconic sites like Tiananmen Square, the Forbidden City, Lama Temple, and the Temple of Heaven.

2. Day 3 features a visit to the stunning Mutianyu section of the Great Wall, the Niaochao National Stadium, and a Hutong tour to experience traditional Beijing life.

3. Travelers venture to Xian on Day 4, visiting the Summer Palace before taking a high-speed train.

4. Day 5 in Xian includes the Terracotta Army, the Big Wild Goose Pagoda, and the Grand Tang Dynasty Ever Bright City.

Cultural Immersion Experiences

A key aspect of the Classic China Tour is its focus on immersing travelers in the rich cultural traditions of the country.

Guests will have the opportunity to participate in a traditional Chinese tea ceremony, where they can learn about the history and proper etiquette of this time-honored ritual.

Plus, a calligraphy lesson allows travelers to try their hand at this ancient art form, gaining an appreciation for the skill and discipline required.

The tour also includes a cooking class, where participants can learn to prepare regional dishes, further enhancing their understanding of Chinese cuisine and culinary culture.

Evening Entertainment and Activities

Alongside the culture experiences, the Classic China Tour also offers evening entertainment and a range of optional activities to enhance the travel experience.

Travelers can enjoy an acrobatics show in Shanghai, showcasing the incredible feats of Chinese acrobats.

Plus, the tour includes:

1. A biking tour in Yangshuo, allowing travelers to explore the scenic countryside at their own pace.
2. Museum tickets for major attractions, providing access to the rich cultural heritage of China.
3. Half-day or full-day tours focusing on specific sites, giving travelers the flexibility to customize their journey.
4. Additional excursions in other cities, further enriching the overall travel experience.

Travel Logistics and Transportation

The tour’s transportation arrangements feature a mix of high-speed trains, private car transfers, and the Yangtze River cruise. Intercity travel is primarily by bullet trains, which offer a comfortable and efficient way to cover long distances. Private car transfers are provided for airport pickup, hotel check-in, and sightseeing in each city. The Yangtze River cruise includes amenities and shore excursions, immersing travelers in the scenic landscapes along the river.

Travel Duration	Transportation
5 hours	To Chongqing
6 hours	To Suzhou
Variety	High-speed trains, private cars, Yangtze River cruise

Practical logistics, such as visa requirements, health tips, currency, and packing essentials, are also provided to guarantee a smooth and informed travel experience in China.

Customer Feedback and Insights

Customers have overwhelmingly praised this classic China tour, with an impressive overall rating of 5.0 based on 5 reviews across Viator and Tripadvisor.

Travellers highlight the excellent service, knowledgeable guides, and well-organized itineraries. The majority of activities are accessible to all, with safety measures provided during the Yangtze River cruise.

Key positive experiences include:

1. Seamless coordination of transportation, including bullet trains and private car transfers.
2. Immersive cultural experiences, such as a traditional Chinese tea ceremony and cooking class.
3. Thorough exploration of major sites, including UNESCO World Heritage attractions.
4. Efficient handling of logistics, including visa requirements and packing essentials.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Travel Insurance Included in the Tour Package?

The tour package does not automatically include travel insurance. Travelers are responsible for arranging their own travel insurance to cover trip cancellations, medical emergencies, and other unforeseen events during the 15-day China tour and Yangtze River cruise.

Can I Request Special Dietary Accommodations?

Yes, travelers can request special dietary accommodations for the tour. The operator works to accommodate various dietary needs, including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options, to guarantee an enjoyable culinary experience throughout the journey.

How Much Local Currency Should I Bring for the Trip?

The exact amount of local currency needed will depend on individual spending habits, but it’s generally recommended to bring around $100-$300 in Chinese yuan for incidentals, souvenirs, and any additional activities during the 15-day tour.

Are There Any COVID-19 Restrictions or Requirements for Travel?

The tour operator advises travelers to check the latest COVID-19 entry requirements for China, which may include presenting a negative test, proof of vaccination, and completing health declaration forms. Policies are subject to change, so it’s best to stay informed.

Can I Extend My Stay in Any of the Cities After the Tour Ends?

Yes, travelers can extend their stay in any of the tour cities after the 15-day itinerary ends. Extension options and pricing can be discussed with the tour operator to customize the trip length and destinations according to the traveler’s preferences.

Recap

The 15-Day Classic China Tour with Yangtze Cruise offers an unforgettable exploration of China’s iconic landmarks and rich cultural heritage. From the Forbidden City to the Terracotta Warriors, travelers will enjoy enthralling experiences, complemented by a scenic Yangtze River cruise and evening entertainment. This extensive tour provides an in-depth, multifaceted journey through the remarkable sights and traditions of this enchanting country.