8-Day Private Tour From Chengdu to Chongqing and Yangtze River Cruise

Embarking on an 8-day private tour from Chengdu to Chongqing and the stunning Yangtze River promises an unforgettable adventure. Travelers will enjoy the rich cultural heritage and natural wonders of China’s southwest, from the iconic giant pandas to the spicy delights of Sichuan cuisine. This comprehensive itinerary offers a seamless blend of exploration, relaxation, and insights into the region’s dynamic history and vibrant present. With a focus on personalized experiences and flexibility, this tour invites guests to uncover the essence of this captivating corner of the Middle Kingdom.

Good To Know

• Explore the UNESCO-listed Leshan Giant Buddha, cruise along the Yangtze River, and experience the ancient architecture and vibrant cuisine of Chongqing.
• Observe pandas at the Chengdu Research Base, stroll through historic Jinli Street, and immerse in local tea culture in Chengdu.
• Travel from Chengdu to Chongqing via a comfortable first-class bullet train, with a private vehicle and guide upon arrival.
• Set out on a luxurious Yangtze River cruise, enjoying spacious cabins, gourmet meals, and opportunities to explore riverside towns and historic sites.
• Participate in culture experiences, including a traditional tea ceremony, outdoor market exploration, Sichuan Opera performance, and hands-on cooking class.

Highlights of the Tour

The highlights of this private tour include a visit to the iconic Leshan Giant Buddha, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where travelers can marvel at the colossal 233-foot-tall stone statue carved into the mountainside.

Next, they’ll embark on a scenic cruise along the Yangtze River, offering breathtaking views of the Three Gorges region.

In Chongqing, the group will explore the dynamic city, known for its ancient architecture, spicy Sichuan cuisine, and lively pedestrian streets.

Plus, the tour features a bullet train ride from Chengdu to Chongqing, providing a comfortable and efficient mode of transportation between the two cities.

Exploring Chengdu

After exploring the stunning Leshan Giant Buddha and embarking on a serene Yangtze River cruise, the tour moves on to the vibrant city of Chengdu.

As the capital of Sichuan province, Chengdu is known for its laid-back atmosphere, delicious Sichuan cuisine, and bustling teahouses.

The tour allows visitors to:

• Visit the iconic Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding to observe these adorable creatures in their natural habitat.
• Explore the vibrant Jinli Street, a historic commercial district lined with traditional buildings, shops, and street food vendors.
• Experience the tranquility of the serene Wuhou Temple, a Confucian shrine dedicated to the renowned military strategist Zhuge Liang.
• Indulge in the local tea culture by visiting a traditional teahouse and learning about the art of Chinese tea drinking.

Journey to Chongqing

Leaving the tranquil Chengdu behind, the tour proceeds to the dynamic metropolis of Chongqing. Boarding the first-class bullet train, travelers enjoy the smooth and efficient journey as the landscape transforms from lush greenery to the bustling urban center.

Upon arrival in Chongqing, the group is met by a private air-conditioned vehicle and their knowledgeable local guide. The day’s itinerary includes exploring the city’s vibrant streets, visiting historical landmarks, and experiencing the local cuisine.

Highlights may include the iconic Chaotianmen Square, the serene Ciqikou Ancient Town, and a delightful Sichuan-style lunch.

With meticulous planning and seamless execution, the tour ensures a comprehensive introduction to the captivating city of Chongqing before continuing the adventure along the Yangtze River.

Boarding the Yangtze Cruise

Bidding farewell to the bustling Chongqing, the group makes their way to the Yangtze River, where they board a luxurious cruise ship.

The ship offers a comfortable and scenic journey along the iconic waterway, allowing them to take in the breathtaking scenery of the Three Gorges region.

The cruise experience includes:

• Spacious and well-appointed cabins with private balconies
• Gourmet meals featuring local and international cuisine
• Onboard entertainment and cultural activities
• Opportunities to disembark and explore riverside towns and historic sites

As they set sail, the group eagerly anticipates the wonders that lie ahead on their Yangtze River adventure.

Scenic Wonders Along the Yangtze

As the cruise ship glides along the mighty Yangtze River, passengers are treated to a mesmerizing panorama of scenic wonders.

The towering cliffs of the Three Gorges, with their rugged beauty and ancient rock formations, captivate all who behold them. Cascading waterfalls tumble down lush, verdant slopes, while serene coves and inlets offer a peaceful respite from the river’s strong current.

The cruise also passes by quaint riverside towns, where glimpses of traditional Chinese life and culture can be observed. Throughout the journey, passengers are enthralled by the ever-changing landscapes and the sheer scale of this magnificent waterway.

Cultural Immersion Experiences

One of the highlights of this private tour is the opportunity for culture experiences.

Guests will have the chance to:

• Visit a local family’s home and participate in a traditional tea ceremony, learning about the significance and art of tea culture.

• Explore a bustling outdoor market, interacting with vendors and sampling regional delicacies.

• Attend a performance of Sichuan Opera, witnessing the captivating masks, music, and acrobatics that define this unique art form.

• Partake in a hands-on cooking class, learning to prepare authentic Sichuan dishes under the guidance of a professional chef.

These immersive cultural encounters offer travelers a profound understanding of the local way of life, enriching their overall journey.

Customization and Flexibility

This private tour also offers a high degree of customization and flexibility to cater to the unique needs and preferences of each traveler.

Travelers can opt to add extra days to the itinerary, allowing them to explore the region at a more leisurely pace.

The private nature of the tour ensures that the group experiences the destinations without having to accommodate the schedules or interests of others.

This level of personalization allows travelers to focus on the aspects of the tour that are most important to them, whether it’s delving deeper into the local culture, indulging in the regional cuisine, or simply enjoying the breathtaking scenery at their own pace.

Sum Up

This captivating 8-day private tour from Chengdu to Chongqing and the Yangtze River offers a seamless blend of natural wonders, culture, and luxurious accommodations. Travelers can expect to witness the iconic giant pandas, explore ancient architecture, savor Sichuan cuisine, and embark on a serene Yangtze River cruise, all while enjoying the flexibility to customize the itinerary to their preferences.