CHINA ADVENTURE CLUB JOURNEYS
Beijing, Yangshuo & Shanghai: China in Contrast
Explore China Adventure Club journeysJourney at a glance
- Day 1 Beijing
- Day 2 Beijing
- Day 3 Beijing
- Day 4 Beijing - Yangshuo, via Guilin
- Day 5 Yangshuo
- Day 6 Yangshuo
- Day 7 Yangshuo - Shanghai, via Guilin
- Day 8 Shanghai
- Day 9 Shanghai
- Day 10 Depart from Shanghai
From the Forbidden City’s imperial grandeur to Yangshuo’s dramatic karst peaks to Shanghai’s gleaming skyline, this journey reveals the many faces of contemporary China.
About this Journey
Explore China’s most iconic destinations on this 10-day September journey through Beijing, Yangshuo, and Shanghai. Wander through the Forbidden City and ancient hutongs, experience the dramatic karst landscapes of Yangshuo on bamboo rafts, and discover Shanghai’s blend of colonial architecture and modern skyscrapers. From imperial heritage to natural wonders to urban innovation, this small group tour showcases China’s greatest contrasts and most unforgettable experiences.
Tour Highlights
- Discovering ancient imperial grandeur in Beijing's Forbidden City and historic hutong neighborhoods
- Floating through dramatic karst landscapes on bamboo rafts down the Yulong River
- Ascending to Shanghai's skyline from one of the world's fastest elevator in Shanghai Tower
YOUR JOURNEY
Route Map
Select a route section to explore the map. Tap a stop for its location or use the directions link for the next leg. Flights, trains, cruises and hiking arrangements follow your itinerary.
Itinerary
Day 1 Beijing
Upon arrival in Beijing, meet your local guide and enjoy some leisure time before the welcome dinner • Savor a Peking duck dinner in one of Beijing’s oldest kaoya restaurants.
Day 2 Beijing
Explore the Forbidden City, where emperors ruled for five hundred years • Wander through Beijing’s hutongs and watch cricket fighting as a true Beijinger.
Day 3 Beijing
Drive to Jinshanling, the outskirts of Beijing, and take a short gondola ride up the mountain • Hike along the Great Wall at Jinshanling, one of the greatest man-made wonders of the world, and enjoy a private champagne picnic.
Day 4 Beijing - Yangshuo, via Guilin
FlyHead to the airport for the next flight to Guilin to Guilin • Enjoy the scenic route during the 1.5 drive from Guilin to Yangshuo • Witness the epic Impression Liu Sanjie, a spectacular outdoor performance of ethnic song and dance directed by Zhang Yimo, set against a natural amphitheater.
Day 5 Yangshuo
Learn basic techniques of the meditative and martial art from a taiji master • Visit the Ruyi Mountain, a stunning showcase of the region’s world-famous karst landscape, named for its distinct shape that mirrors the traditional Chinese “ruyi” scepter, an ancient symbol of good fortune • Glide down the tranquil Yulong River on a bamboo raft, taking in the karst peaks and lush scenery.
Day 6 Yangshuo
Explore Yangshuo’s bustling city market, navigating through vendors selling fresh produce, meats, and prepared foods • Discover Yangshuo’s picturesque countryside on a relaxing sidecar ride, stopping at hidden viewpoints • In a traditional courtyard home, enjoy tea and learn to prepare traditional Yangshuo delicacies.
Day 7 Yangshuo - Shanghai, via Guilin
Head to the airport for the next flight to Shanghai • Stroll down the Bund, rising majestically across the river from Shanghai’s electric skyline.
Day 8 Shanghai
Get to know Shanghai’s local life at Fuxing Park, once a private Ming Dynasty park • Discover the blend of old and new in Xintiandi, where restored facades hide international eateries, boutiques, and bars • Explore the elegant streets of the Former French Concession, steeped in colonial charm and once home to Shanghai’s elite • Soar to the top of Shanghai Tower, one of the world’s tallest buildings, and experience breathtaking panoramic views of the city • Witness awe-inspiring feats performed by the death-defying ERA2 acrobats.
Day 9 Shanghai
Join a knowledgeable guide for a tour of Shanghai’s breakfast stalls and market • Explore the historic Jade Buddha Temple in Shanghai, home to two precious Buddhist statues dating back to 1882 • Get lost in a colorful maze of Ming Dynasty-era alleyways filled with souvenir shops, street snacks, and the irresistible aroma of freshly made xiao long bao • Discover the philosophy and artistry behind this classical Chinese garden on a guided walk with a horticulturalist, exploring moon gates, rockeries, and symbolic plants like pine, lotus, and ancient ginkgo.
Day 10 Depart from Shanghai
Your local guide will help you check in for your departure flight.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which destinations are part of Beijing, Yangshuo & Shanghai: China in Contrast?
The suggested route includes Beijing, Guilin, Yangshuo and Shanghai. The order, available stops and travel connections are confirmed for your dates and can change with opening hours, local conditions and the arrangements in your proposal.
How is the visit to Guilin incorporated into this trip?
Guilin is listed in the suggested itinerary. Its timing, the amount of time available and the way you reach it will be included in your final proposal, taking into account the rest of your route and any local access restrictions.
Can Beijing, Yangshuo & Shanghai: China in Contrast be adjusted to our dates and interests?
Yes. Tell us where you plan to arrive and depart, how many people are traveling, and the places or experiences you value most. We can discuss a tailored route, subject to available services, access and the time needed between stops.
What is included in the price of Beijing, Yangshuo & Shanghai: China in Contrast?
Your written proposal will identify the agreed transport, guide services, hotels or cruise accommodation, admission fees and meals. International flights, optional activities and other items vary by program, so ask us to confirm them before booking.
Hotels
The Peninsula Beijing
5 starThe only all-suite hotel in the capital, The Peninsula Beijing sits a short stroll from Tiananmen Square, the Forbidden City, and the bustling Wangfujing shopping street.
Banyan Tree Yangshuo Resort
5 starBanyan Tree Yangshuo Resort blends luxury and nature with Li River views, spa treatments, gourmet dining, and serene karst mountain surroundings.
The Peninsula Shanghai
5 starThe Peninsula has a strong art deco influence reminiscent of 1930s Shanghai with luxurious rooms, restaurants and a rooftop bar overlooking the Bund.
Photos
Photos TheForbidden City, Beijing The Great Wall of China Karst Peaks and Lush Wetland in Yangshuo Bamboo Rafting on Yulong River Shanghai Xintiandi Shanghai Tower The Bund at Night, Shanghai
Details
Dates for this Journey
September 13th – 22nd, 2027
What’s Included
- Services of an English-speaking local English-speaking guide
- Accommodation based on double occupancy with breakfasts included
- All on-ground transfers (19-seats Coaster; luggage van when transferring) with in-transport refreshments
- Beijing Airport International Arrival VIP Airport Service
- Domestic flights and trains, as noted in the itinerary
- All admission fees and activity expenses, as noted in the itinerary
- Meals as noted in the itinerary with complimentary drinking water
What’s Excluded
- International flights, plus relevant taxes
- Chinese tourist visa, which is required for most foreign passport holders
- Travel and medical insurance
- Meals, apart from those included in the itinerary, and alcohol
- Expenses of a personal nature
- Excursions and activities not included in the itinerary
- Discretionary gratuities for guides and drivers
Trip Costs
$6,109 per person
Single Supplement: +$1,961
(Please note that 6.72% Value-Added Tax (VAT) is already included in the prices above)
TAILOR-MADE TRAVEL
Request This Tour
Tell us your preferred dates, group size, and interests. We will prepare a personal proposal for your China journey.
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