13 Days Essential China Group Tour with Lhasa & Chengdu Pandas

Welcome to Beijing! Upon arrival, your driver will be ready to pick you up and transfer you to your hotel for check-in. The rest of the day is free for you to relax or explore Beijing at your own pace.

Arrival ideas:

• Visit a traditional tea-house and watch shows like Beking Opera and acrobatics.

• Walk into a cool bar or cafe to experience Beijing's modern side.

• Enjoy authentic local snacks or vibrant night views at Panjiayuan Antique Market, Wangfujing, Houhai or Niujie.

Pick‑up from your hotel between 7:30 am and 8:00 am.

First, visit Tiananmen Square, one of the world's largest public squares. Admire its grand open layout and iconic landmarks, perfect for capturing impressive photos of Beijing's political and cultural heart.

Next, explore the Forbidden City, the spectacular former imperial palace complex of the Ming and Qing dynasties. Wander through well‑preserved palaces, courtyards and ancient architecture that once housed emperors, nobles and royal treasures.

At noon, we will take you to a nearby local restaurant for lunch.

After lunch, head to traditional Beijing hutongs near Shichahai Lake. Walk along narrow, historic alleyways lined with old courtyard homes, experiencing authentic local daily life and old‑Beijing charm.

We then travel 30 minutes by vehicle to the Lama Temple, Beijing's largest and best‑preserved Tibetan Buddhist temple. Discover golden‑roofed halls, fine Buddhist art and peaceful religious atmosphere unique to Tibetan culture.

*For an optional evening experience, upgrade your day with a famous Peking Roast Duck dinner followed by an acrobatic show at Chaoyang Theatre. Please let us know in advance if you wish to add this special activity.

Pick‑up from your hotel (recommended tour start time: 7:30 am – 8:00 am).

Travel to Mutianyu Great Wall (1.5‑2 hours' drive).This is one of the most famous and well‑preserved sections of the Great Wall. Round‑trip cable car is included for your convenience. Take the cable car up to the wall to enjoy stunning mountain views, then spend 1‑2 hours leisurely hiking along different segments, exploring ancient watchtowers and admiring the magnificent architecture of this legendary landmark. After your exploration, ride the cable car back down the mountain.

Enjoy a buffet lunch at a local restaurant near Mutianyu Great Wall, featuring authentic Chinese dishes and fresh local flavors.

On the way back toward downtown after lunch, we first head to the Summer Palace, a former imperial summer retreat and one of China's best‑preserved royal gardens. Wander around its vast lake, elegant pavilions and winding corridors to experience traditional Chinese imperial garden culture.

After the Summer Palace visit, we will make a short photo stop to view the iconic Bird's Nest (National Stadium) and Water Cube (National Aquatics Center), the famous venues built for the Beijing Olympics before sending you back to your hotel.

Temple of Heaven: China's largest ancient imperial sacrificial complex. Today, it serves as a popular public park where locals gather for daily leisure activities including singing, dancing, and practicing Tai Chi in its spacious, well‑preserved grounds.

Pearl Market: Browse a wide selection of fine pearls, handcrafted souvenirs, fashion bags, footwear and accessories. It is an ideal place to shop for special gifts for family and friends back home.

We will transfer you to Beijing West Railway Station to board an afternoon high‑speed bullet train bound for Xi'an. The journey takes approximately 4 hours.

Upon arrival at Xi'an North Railway Station, your local private driver will meet you and escort you to your hotel in downtown Xi'an.

Many travelers know Xi'an for the Terracotta Army, and you will witness this remarkable underground army dating back over 2,200 years this morning. About 40 km from the city center, the Terracotta Army ranks among the world's greatest archaeological discoveries.

Qin Shihuang, China's first emperor, ordered craftsmen to build this vast burial army to guard him in the afterlife. Though the entire site has not been fully excavated yet, you will be amazed by the military formation of the Qin Dynasty, revealed through the over 8,000 life-sized terracotta figures that have been unearthed so far. All of them are testaments to the extraordinary skill of ancient Chinese craftsmen.

Currently, there 3 pits open to the public. Pit 1 is the most striking one, housing over 6,000 soldiers and horses. Pit 2 houses around 1,300 warriors and horses, showing the battle formation with its kneeling and standing archers, chariot ranks and weapon-bearing troops.

After lunch, drive back to the city center to enjoy your time on the Ancient City Wall, the Fortification of Xi'an and one of the most complete and oldest city walls still standing in China. Stroll along its ramparts, gazing over the inner and outer walls, watchtowers and moat, and enjoy panoramic views of modern Xi'an.

Descend from the City Wall at Yongning Gate, then walk to the Bell & Drum Tower Square to admire the over 600-year-old Bell Tower and Drum Tower, which offer an ideal backdrop for photos capturing the city's blend of past and present. After dark, the square offers a vibrant city nightscape and a glimpse into locals' evening routines.

This morning, you will go to visit the Giant Wild Goose Pagoda, one of Xi'an's most recognizable landmarks and symbol of the magnificence of the Tang Dynasty. This seven-story pagoda standing in the tranquil Da Ci'en Temple is one of China's best examples of a Tang-style pagoda (squarish rather than round). It was completed in AD 652 to house Buddhist sutras brought back from India by the monk Xuan Zang. His travels inspired one of the best-known works of Chinese literature, Journey to the West. Later, you will have the opportunity to explore the vibrant and bustling Muslim Quarter (Muslim Street). This historic quarter, situated just behind the Drum Tower about 430 meters west of the Bell Tower in downtown Xian, has been around for over 1,000 years.

After the tour, you will be transferred to the train station for a high-speed train to Chengdu (about 3-4 hours). Upon your arrival in Chengdu, your driver will meet you at the exit of the train station and escort you to your hotel in Chengdu downtown area. The rest of today is free on your own to explore this laid-back city well known for Giant Pandas and Sichuan cuisine.

After breakfast, meet your guide at the hotel lobby. Take the coach to the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding. We deliberately reserve the morning for this visit because the pandas are at their liveliest in this period. The base is home to over 100 giant pandas. You may see them devouring bamboo, dozing in the crooks of tree branches, or tumbling and chasing one another. If you are lucky, you may also encounter some newborn cubs in the glass-walled "Moon Nursery."

Rather than a zoo, the base is more like a semi-wild and bamboo-shaded park, making the visit more like an easy forest stroll. Besides the adorable giant pandas, you can also encounter the red pandas, and elegant black swans.

After the visit, head north to the Sanxingdui Museum — roughly 50 kilometers, about an hour by coach. Sit back and recharge for the mysteries ahead. Sanxingdui is the site of a lost Bronze Age kingdom that flourished more than 3,000 years ago. Here, a professional guide will lead you through the sacrificial pits that stunned the archaeological world when they were discovered in 1986. Discover a wealth of treasures, including a bronze standing figure over two meters tall, a nearly four-meter Sacred Tree, masks with wide, staring eyes, and a golden scepter. Widely recognized as the "source of Yangtze River civilization," the site will introduce you to a civilization lost for millennia.

💡Good to know: The tickets for the Sanxingdui Museum are extremely hard to come by, especially during peak travel season. We'll do everything we can to secure them. Should the tickets not come through, we will spend the afternoon exploring highlights of old Chengdu instead, including city history galleries at the Chengdu Museum, traditional courtyard houses, tea houses, and street snacks in the Qing-dynasty lanes of Kuanzhai Alleys, and locals' leisure life at People's Park.

At the end of the day, enjoy some time at Jinli, one of the most vibrant streets in Chengdu to experience local snacks and everyday Chengdu life. Sitting right beside Wuhou Shrine, the ancient street comes alive after dark as red lanterns flicker along the cobblestones. Try to entertain your stomach with san da pao, dan dan noodles, and wontons, and experience many local crafts, like sugar painting and paper cutting.

After breakfast, you will have some time in Chengdu and explore more on your own till you be escorted to airport for your flight to Lhasa (Economy Class Flight Ticket arranged by AOT).

Tashi Delek! Welcome to Lhasa, the capital of the Tibet Autonomous Region! Upon your arrival at the airport/train station in Lhasa, the driver will meet you at the exit, and then escort you to the hotel in Lhasa. You can have a good rest to get used to the altitude (3,650m) in your hotel and get ready to explore Lhasa the next day.

Kind Reminds:

1. It is good to avoid the highland sickness by slow down, keep warm, drink some water frequently, no shower for the first one or two days, take it easy, and sleep well.

2. You should always follow your doctor's advice on altitude according to your health condition.

3. Be sure to let your guide or the hotel staff know whenever you feel unwell or need help. The people there are always willing to help and good at dealing with altitude sickness

Today, have fun in the Lhasa Traditional Handicraft Art Center for a close touch of Tibetan culture, and you will experience Tibetan Buddhism by witnessing the Monks' Debating in Sera Monastery.

In the morning, enjoy the experience in the Lhasa Traditional Handicraft Art Center, fully immerse yourself by making Tibetan incense, Tibetan calligraphy, and the secrets of block printing. Tibetan incense is typically burned as an offering during religious ceremonies and rituals in Tibetan Buddhism. The ingredients used for Tibetan incense usually include juniper, sandalwood, cedarwood, cinnamon, cloves, and various medicinal herbs. Besides learning how to make Tibetan incense, you can also participate in writing your own name in the Tibetan Language with the help of a local teacher, and engraving and printing it out. Handmade Tibetan incense and printed text can be taken home as a souvenir of the Tibetan cultural experience. 

In the afternoon, drive approximately 7km (about 20 minutes) to visit Sera Monastery, which is one of the three great Gelug university monasteries of Tibet. It offers the opportunity to experience Tibetan Buddhism up close. The highlight of Sera Monastery is watching the monks' debate, which takes place around 15:00-17:00 (except on Sundays). The debate is an interesting form of exchange, where one monk acts as the questioner, standing while the answerer or group of answerers sit. The standing monk asks questions and slaps his palms and stomps, each action having a special meaning, such as activating wisdom, and are not meant to be aggressive. You will also have the chance to attend prayer ceremonies, visit meditation halls, and learn about the monastic way of life. It is a must-visit destination to gain insight into the beliefs and practices of Tibetan Buddhism.

In the evening, enjoy a group dinner featuring delicious Tibetan cuisine, specially offered by AOT team..

Today, it is the time to explore Lhasa by visiting the world-famous Potala Palace, a World Heritage site and the picture behind the 50 RMB. And then, you will explore Lhasa by visiting Jokhang Temple, a world cultural heritage site renowned for its brilliant architecture, culture, art, and history. Finally, you can stroll through the famous Barkhor Street with locals and learn more about the daily kora life of Tibetans.

In the morning, you can walk up to the Potala Palace to explore. Not only is it the landmark of Tibet, but it is also the traditional residence and winter palace of the Dalai Lama (1649-1959). After climbing 365 steps from the gate of the Potala Palace to reach the Red Palace, you will arrive at the highest palace in the world at an altitude of 3,700m, where you can enjoy an excellent panoramic view of Lhasa city. As you explore the principal halls, chapels, and shrines of past Dalai Lamas in the Red Palace, you will be amazed and moved by its remarkable paintings, gorgeous jeweled works, skilled carving, colorful ornamentation, and the mystery stories behind the treasures. Inside the Potala Palace, you will meet many Tibetan pilgrims who come from afar to pray at this sacred site, making it a lifetime destination for them. You can also ask your guide to provide more stories about Songtsen Gampo, the 33rd king of Tibet, who first built the Potala Palace in the 7th century for his marriage to Princess Wencheng of the Tang Dynasty. (Please note that the visit order may be adjusted based on the visiting time specified on your Potala Palace ticket. All visitors are required to visit the palace with a tour group and remain inside for one hour. Please be advised that photography is prohibited inside the palace.)

Located in the heart of Lhasa for over 1300 years, the Jokhang Temple is an important pilgrimage site for Buddhists from all over the world. Famed as the spiritual center of Tibet, it is said that the Jokhang Monastery was built for King Songtsen Gampo's two brides: Chinese Princess Wencheng and Nepalese Princess Bhrikuti. "Jokhang" means "House of Buddha", and it houses a life-size statue of the 12-year-old Sakyamuni, which is considered a treasure of the Buddhist world. This is why Buddhist pilgrims consider it the holiest destination. The Jakhong temple is also renowned for its beautiful architecture. You can admire the intricate carvings, colorful murals, ornate decorations, and details of the building, which is a masterpiece of Tibetan architecture. Time seems to stand still as you watch people pray in front of the temple during the day and night. (Please note that the visit order may be adjusted based on the reservation of your Jokhang Temple Ticket Reservation.)

Afterward, take a walk on busy Barkhor Street near the Jokhang Monastery, which was a place for Buddhists to do a kora (pilgrim circuit) in ancient times. Nowadays, it has become a thriving local market where you can drink a pot of yak butter tea, dress in Tibetan clothes for photos, and pick up some local Tibetan, Nepalese, and Indian handicrafts and souvenirs.

In the evening, enjoy a group dinner featuring delicious Tibetan cuisine, specially offered by AOT team.

Today, your group will have full day to experience the perfect blend of East and West in the "Paris of the East." Explore brilliant museums, classical gardens, futuristic skyscrapers, and stunning architecture - all in one vibrant city.

First, head to Pudong and the Lujiazui financial district, home to a trio of iconic skyscrapers. The Shanghai Tower, China's tallest and the world's second-tallest building at 632 meters (2,073 ft), soars with a dramatic 120-degree twist from base to peak. Ride the world's fastest elevators (64 km/h) to the "Top of Shanghai Observatory" on the 118th floor, 546 meters above ground. Enjoy breathtaking 360-degree views of the city, with the Jin Mao Tower and Shanghai World Financial Center below.

Later, visit the Shanghai Museum (East), one of the world's finest museums of ancient Chinese art. Its sleek, modern design is inspired by the traditional Chinese jade bi disc. Inside, explore galleries of bronzes, ceramics, calligraphy, paintings, jade, furniture, coins, and sculptures. Don't miss iconic treasures like the Da Ke Ding, a 3,000-year-old bronze vessel, displayed with the Zi Long Ding and Marquis of Jin Bells - a rare highlight of the Bronze Gallery. Also, see the legendary Sword of King Goujian of Yue, a masterpiece of ancient craftsmanship.

Next, visit Yu Garden, Shanghai's most famous classical garden, hidden in the heart of the city. Stroll through elegant pavilions, rockeries, and lotus ponds, and admire exquisite carvings and traditional architecture. Outside, Yuyuan Bazaar offers local snacks, souvenirs, and handcrafted art.

In the afternoon, walk along Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street, lined with global brands, cafes, and historic buildings. End at the Bund, Shanghai's top must-see landmark. Known as the "Exhibition of International Architecture," it features 52 grand buildings in Gothic, Baroque, and Art Deco styles. From here, enjoy a stunning view of the Pudong skyline across the Huangpu River.

Travel Notes:

l Yu Garden is closed on Mondays. In this case, we may visit the City God Temple, or French Concession instead.

l Shanghai Museum (East) is closed on Tuesdays. You will visit Shanghai Museum (People's Square) on that day. If access to the People's Square location is unavailable, we will arrange an alternative city attraction.

Today, follow your local guide in Shanghai to discover why this city is often called the "Paris of the East." From world-class museums and classical gardens to futuristic towers and iconic architecture, the city is where East and West, past and future harmoniously coexist.  

Start in Pudong's Lujiazui financial district, home to a trio of landmark skyscrapers. At 632 meters, Shanghai Tower is the tallest building in China and the third-tallest on earth, twisting a dramatic 120-degree twist from base to peak.

Ride one of the world's fastest elevators (64 km/h) to the Shanghai Observatory on the 118th floor for breathtaking 360-degree views with the Jin Mao Tower and Shanghai World Financial Center spread below.

Next, head to the Shanghai Museum (East) to see some of the best examples of ancient Chinese art. The new building itself is a striking sight, whose modern, sweeping facade looks like river water, and is inspired by Shanghai's spirit of embracing all that the world brings to its shores.

Inside the museum, the numerous displaying bronzes, ceramics, calligraphy and painting, jade, antique furniture, coins, and sculpture make it like a iving encyclopedia of Chinese art.

The highlight of the museum is the Da Ke Ding, a Western Zhou ritual vessel over 3,000 years old. Cast into its inner wall is a long inscription recording stories of the Zhou royal house.

Continue to Yu Garden, a classical Jiangnan-style private garden founded in the Ming Dynasty (1559). Hidden in the heart of Shanghai, it offers a striking counterpoint to the modern skyscrapers of Lujiazui. Wandering through its pavilions, ponds, rockeries, and winding corridors, every step reveals a new scene.

The Exquisite Jade Rock (Yu Linglong) featuring delicate hollows and perforations is the garden's centerpiece. The Nine-Turn Bridge and the Mid-Lake Pavilion are iconic photo stops.

Several minutes' walk away, the red-lantern-lined lanes of the Yuyuan Bazaar are filled with century-old shops. You can sample local specialties such as Nanxiang xiaolongbao (soup dumplings), browse traditional craft stalls, and soak up the old-Shanghai buzz and classical culture.

In the afternoon, stroll along Nanjing Road, China's most famous shopping street. Running east to west, it's lined with time-honored shops, modern department stores, and small boutiques.

Follow the pedestrian street all the way east and you'll reach the Bund. Along the Huangpu River stands a row of dozens of century-old buildings in a mix of neo-classical, Gothic, and Baroque styles, all of which are testaments to a hundred years of Shanghai's history.

From the riverside promenade, the Huangpu River stretches before you, with the Lujiazui skyscrapers clearly visible on the opposite bank. As dusk falls, old and new cityscapes come together in a single frame, creating Shanghai's most classic photo scene.

At the end of the day, your driver will drop you off at your hotel in Shanghai.

Travel Notes:

• Yu Garden is closed on Mondays. If your visit falls on a Monday, your guide can suggest an alternative such as the nearby City God Temple or the Former French Concession instead.

• The Shanghai Museum (East) is shut on Tuesdays. On those days the museum at People's Square takes its place, or another city sight.

Your 8-day Beijing–Xi'an–Shanghai group tour draws to a close today. Enjoy a final stretch of free time in Shanghai to explore anything you missed before your driver escorts you to the airport or station for your onward flight or high-speed train.

Trip Extension Ideas: If you'd rather continue on to other destinations in China than head straight home, we'd be glad to arrange an extension for you — just let us know what you have in mind!