Discover the Wonders of China in One Epic Journey
Our 19 Days China Tour has been carefully designed to showcase the country’s most spectacular highlights in one unforgettable adventure. Meet the adorable giant pandas of Chengdu, explore the dramatic mountain scenery of Yunnan, stand among the towering sandstone pillars of Zhangjiajie that inspired the world of Avatar, marvel at the legendary Terracotta Warriors of Xi’an, and walk along the Great Wall before discovering the imperial treasures of Beijing.
From snow-capped Himalayan foothills and ancient Tibetan towns to imperial capitals, breathtaking national parks, and some of the world’s greatest historical landmarks, China offers an astonishing diversity of landscapes and cultures unlike anywhere else on Earth.
Combining natural wonders, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, ancient history, vibrant local culture, and breathtaking scenery, this itinerary offers the perfect introduction to China for travelers seeking an immersive and well-balanced experience. Like all of our tours, every journey can be customized to suit your interests, travel style, and available time.
Why book with us?
Our 19 Days China Tour has been carefully designed to showcase the incredible diversity of China, combining breathtaking natural landscapes, ancient civilizations, vibrant cities, and some of the world’s most iconic landmarks into one seamless journey. Rather than focusing on a single region, this itinerary takes you from the giant pandas of Sichuan and the Tibetan culture of Shangri-La to the spectacular mountains of Yunnan, the surreal landscapes of Zhangjiajie, and the imperial cities of Xi’an and Beijing.
Throughout your journey, you’ll travel with experienced local guides, comfortable private transportation, carefully selected accommodations, and well-planned domestic flights and high-speed train connections. As with all of our tours, there are no compulsory shopping stops or hidden commissions—just honest advice, personalized service, and the flexibility to customize your itinerary to match your interests and travel style.
Highlights:
- Meet the adorable Giant Pandas at Chengdu Research Base.
- Cruise past the magnificent Leshan Giant Buddha, the world’s largest stone Buddha.
- Experience Tibetan culture in Shangri-La.
- Explore Tiger Leaping Gorge, one of the deepest river canyons on Earth.
- Ride the cable car to Jade Dragon Snow Mountain.
- Discover the surreal sandstone pillars of Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, inspiration for the floating mountains in Avatar.
- Walk across the breathtaking Zhangjiajie Glass Bridge.
- Marvel at the legendary Terracotta Warriors in Xi’an.
- Explore the majestic Forbidden City and Tiananmen Square.
- Walk along the iconic Great Wall of China at Mutianyu.
Tour Itinerary
Day 1 : Chengdu Arrival
Welcome to China! Upon arrival in Chengdu, you’ll be met by our representative and transferred to your hotel. The remainder of the day is free to relax or begin exploring the capital of Sichuan Province at your own pace.
Day 2 : Discover Chengdu
Visit the famous Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding to observe China’s beloved giant pandas in a carefully recreated natural habitat. Later, explore Wenshu Temple and People’s Park, where you can experience local daily life, including the city’s famous “blind date corner.”
Day 3 : Leshan Giant Buddha & Huanglongxi
Travel to Leshan to admire the world’s largest stone Buddha, carved directly into a cliff over 1,200 years ago. Enjoy a scenic cruise for panoramic views of the colossal statue before visiting the charming ancient town of Huanglongxi. In the evening, you may choose to attend a traditional Sichuan Opera performance (optional).
Day 4 : Chengdu – Shangri-La
Enjoy a relaxed morning before flying to Shangri-La, a fascinating region influenced by Tibetan culture and surrounded by spectacular mountain scenery. The remainder of the day is free to explore at your leisure.
Day 5 : Discover Shangri-La
Spend the day exploring Shangri-La at your own pace. Optional excursions include Pudacuo National Park, while the charming Dukezong Ancient Town offers traditional Tibetan architecture, bustling local markets, and the world’s largest Tibetan prayer wheel.
Day 6 : Tiger Leaping Gorge & Lijiang
Journey through one of China’s most spectacular landscapes as you visit Tiger Leaping Gorge, one of the deepest river canyons in the world, before continuing to the UNESCO-listed old town of Lijiang.
Day 7 : Explore Lijiang
Enjoy a free day discovering Lijiang’s ancient streets, Black Dragon Pool, and views of the magnificent Jade Dragon Snow Mountain while acclimatizing for tomorrow’s high-altitude adventure.
Day 8 : Jade Dragon Snow Mountain
Ride the cable car to Glacier Park on Jade Dragon Snow Mountain and enjoy breathtaking alpine scenery. Optional performances of the famous Impression Lijiang show are also available.
Day 9 : Lijiang – Kunming
Fly to Kunming, known as the “City of Eternal Spring,” and enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure.
Day 10 : Stone Forest & Golden Temple
Explore the extraordinary Stone Forest, one of China’s most remarkable natural wonders, before visiting the beautiful Golden Temple overlooking Kunming.
Day 11 : Kunming – Zhangjiajie
Fly to Zhangjiajie, home to one of China’s most spectacular national parks and the inspiration behind the floating mountains featured in the movie Avatar.
Day 12 : Zhangjiajie National Forest Park
Explore the breathtaking sandstone pillars of Tianzi Mountain and Yuanjiajie, ride the famous Bailong Elevator, and discover the picturesque Ten Miles Gallery.
Day 13 : Tianmen Mountain & Glass Bridge
Ride the cable car to Tianmen Mountain, walk across its thrilling glass skywalk, admire the famous 99 Bends mountain road, and experience the spectacular Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon Glass Bridge.
Day 14 : Zhangjiajie – Xi’an
Enjoy free time before flying to Xi’an, one of China’s oldest capitals and the eastern gateway of the ancient Silk Road.
Day 15 : Discover Xi’an
Visit the world-famous Terracotta Warriors, explore Xi’an Ancient City Wall, admire the Big Wild Goose Pagoda, and stroll around the historic Bell and Drum Towers.
Day 16 : Xi’an – Beijing
Travel aboard China’s high-speed train to Beijing, where the remainder of the day is free to relax or begin exploring the capital.
Day 17 : Imperial Beijing
Discover Beijing’s most famous landmarks, including Tiananmen Square, the magnificent Forbidden City, the Summer Palace, and the iconic Olympic Park.
Day 18 : Great Wall of China
Visit the spectacular Mutianyu section of the Great Wall, complete with cable car access, before exploring the Temple of Heaven and ending the day at lively Wangfujing Street.
Day 19 : Beijing Departure
Enjoy free time until your scheduled airport transfer, bringing your unforgettable journey across China’s most iconic destinations to a close.
Why Choose This 19 Days China Tour?
China is not a country that can be understood from one city alone. This journey brings together many different faces of China, from the laid-back charm of Chengdu and the Tibetan-influenced landscapes of Shangri-La to the ancient towns of Yunnan, the surreal peaks of Zhangjiajie, the imperial grandeur of Beijing, and the historical legacy of Xi’an.
What makes this itinerary special is the variety. In one journey, you’ll meet giant pandas, see snow-capped mountains, walk through dramatic canyons, explore ancient cities, stand before the Terracotta Warriors, and experience the Great Wall of China. It is a beautifully balanced route for travelers who want more than a quick city-hopping trip: a deeper introduction to China’s landscapes, culture, history, and everyday life.
Best Time to Visit China
China is a vast country with very different climates between regions, especially on this itinerary which includes Sichuan, Yunnan, Zhangjiajie, Xi’an, and Beijing.
The best overall time to visit is generally from April to June and September to October, when temperatures are pleasant and sightseeing conditions are ideal across most destinations. Spring brings blooming landscapes and comfortable weather, while autumn offers crisp air, colorful scenery, and excellent visibility in the mountains.
If possible, avoid traveling during China’s Golden Week holiday (typically the first week of October). This is one of the country’s busiest travel periods, when attractions, trains, airports, and popular tourist destinations become significantly more crowded, while hotel and transportation prices may also increase.
Traveling during July and August is still possible but expect warmer temperatures and larger domestic holiday crowds. Winter offers fewer tourists and a unique atmosphere, although mountain destinations such as Shangri-La and Jade Dragon Snow Mountain can be considerably colder.
- 18 nights hotel accommodation (based on double/twin room)
- Private air-conditioned car with licensed driver
- English-speaking local guides
- Domestic flights as specified in the itinerary
- High-speed train ticket from Xi’an to Beijing
- Daily breakfast and other meals as specified in the itinerary
- Entrance fees to all attractions listed in the itinerary
- Cable car access where specified, including Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, Zhangjiajie, Tianmen Mountain, and the Great Wall
- Cruise experience to view Leshan Giant Buddha
- Mineral water during sightseeing tours
- International flights to and from China
- China visa
- Daily lunch and dinner (unless specified)
- Optional shows and activities, such as Sichuan Opera, Impression Lijiang, Pudacuo National Park, and Charming Western Hunan Show
- Travel insurance
- Personal expenses (phone, minibar, internet, laundry, etc.)
- Tipping for driver and guide will be much appreciated
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this 19 Days China tour suitable for first-time visitors?
Yes. This itinerary is ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive introduction to China, combining famous landmarks, historic cities, mountain scenery, cultural experiences, and natural wonders in one journey.
Is the tour private?
Yes. Land transportation, sightseeing, and transfers are arranged privately for your group. Some transportation segments, such as domestic flights and high-speed trains, are shared public services.
How physically demanding is this tour?
This tour is suitable for travelers with a moderate level of fitness. Some destinations involve walking, stairs, cable cars, mountain viewpoints, and high-altitude areas such as Shangri-La and Jade Dragon Snow Mountain.
Can this itinerary be customized?
Absolutely. The route, duration, hotels, activities, and pace can be adjusted to match your interests, travel style, budget, and available time.
Do I need visas for China?
Most travelers need a visa to visit China, although requirements vary depending on nationality and current regulations. Please contact us before booking so we can advise based on your passport and travel plan.
Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, especially for families with older children or teenagers who enjoy nature, history, and cultural experiences. For families with younger children or senior travelers, we can adjust the pace and reduce long travel days where possible.