9 Days Beijing Guilin & Shanghai Luxury Tour

This 9-day luxury journey takes you through China’s most iconic destinations—Beijing, Guilin, and Shanghai. Walk through imperial history at the Forbidden City and the Great Wall. Glide along the Li River surrounded by karst peaks, soar above Guilin in a hot air balloon, and experience bamboo rafting on the Yulong River. Conclude in Shanghai, where tradition meets modernity at the Bund, Yu Garden, and vibrant shopping streets.

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  • Tour Code: CT-BGS-09
  • Time: 9 Days
  • Cities: Beijing - Guilin - Shanghai
  • Accommodation: 8 nights (4+ stars Hotels)

Included with every escorted tour

  • Professional English speaking guide.
  • Domestic flights/High-speed Train Fee.
  • Hotel with breakfast in the itinerary.
  • Entrance fees of all the attractions as listed.

Day 1: Beijing

Arrive in Beijing and transfer to the hotel

4+ stars Hotels

None

 

Upon your arrival in Beijing, our professional guide will be waiting for you at the airport. You will be transferred comfortably by private vehicle to your hotel in the city center. After check-in, take some time to rest and adjust to the time difference. If you're eager to explore your surroundings, our guide will provide practical suggestions.

 

Arrival Tips:

As an international aviation hub, Beijing has direct flights connecting to many cities around the world. In addition, you can also choose to take the high-speed rail to reach downtown Beijing. It takes about 20 minutes to reach the city by taking the Airport Express, and the cost is about RMB 35-50 per person. The airport bus takes about 60-90 minutes and costs 40 yuan per person; taxis or online car-hailing take about 60-90 minutes and cost about 300 yuan (depending on the type of car).

At the same time, Beijing Airport is adjacent to various cities in China. For example, it only takes about 2.5 hours from Daxing Airport to major cities such as Shanghai, Xi'an, Guangzhou, and Chengdu.

Day 1: Beijing Day 1: Beijing Day 1: Beijing

Day 2: Beijing

Tian'anmen Square--Forbidden City--Summer Palace

4+ stars Hotels

Breakfast & Lunch

 

Tiananmen Square: Start your day at Tiananmen Square, one of the world's largest public squares, rich in history.

Forbidden City: Next, visit the magnificent Forbidden City, the former imperial palace of the Ming and Qing dynasties.

Summer Palace: End your day at the Summer Palace, known for its beautiful gardens and stunning lakes.

 

Evening Option: 

In the evening, you may choose to enjoy a captivating performance of Peking Opera, a kung fu show, or acrobatics, immersing yourself in the charm of traditional Chinese culture. Performances usually run from 19:15 to 20:15.

Day 2: Beijing Day 2: Beijing Day 2: Beijing

Day 3: Great Wall Adventure

Great Wall--Bird Nest

4+ stars Hotels

Breakfast & Lunch

 

Mutianyu Great Wall: After breakfast, head to the Mutianyu section of the Great Wall. Enjoy breathtaking views as you walk along this historic structure.

You will take an easy cable car up to the Great Wall. Next you will climb up to the city tower overlooking the majestic Great Wall, which will surely make your stay unforgettable. After the Great Wall tour, we will take the cable car down the mountain.

(Note: If you are physically fit, you can also choose to hike up and down the mountain to feel the sense of accomplishment of climbing to the top).

Olympic Sites: On your return to Beijing, take a moment to admire the Bird's Nest (National Stadium) and Water Cube (National Aquatics Center) from the outside, marveling at their unique designs.

Recommended Activities:

You can choose foot massage, houhai night bars or Sanlitun bar street at night.

Day 3: Great Wall Adventure Day 3: Great Wall Adventure Day 3: Great Wall Adventure

Day 4: Beijing-Guilin

Temple of Heaven--Hutongs--Flight to Guilin

4+ stars Hotels

Breakfast & Lunch

 

After breakfast, visit the Temple of Heaven, where ancient emperors once held solemn ceremonies to pray for good harvests. Marvel at its grand architecture and observe locals practicing Tai Chi in the surrounding park.

Then, head into a traditional Beijing hutong, where you'll enjoy a hands-on dumpling-making experience with a local family. Afterward, hop on a rickshaw ride through the narrow alleyways, soaking in the charm and rhythm of old Beijing life.

In the afternoon, transfer to the airport for a domestic flight to Guilin, famous for its breathtaking karst landscapes and river scenery. Upon arrival, meet your guide and transfer to your hotel for check-in and relaxation.

 

Recommended Activities (Optional):

Upon arrival, you may wish to sample Guilin's signature rice noodles, a beloved local delicacy. In the evening, consider a leisurely stroll along the Two Rivers and Four Lakes Scenic Area, where the city's night lights reflect beautifully on the water. For those interested in local culture, a brief introduction to the Zhuang ethnic group, native to the Guilin region, offers meaningful insight into the area's rich heritage.

Day 4: Beijing-Guilin Day 4: Beijing-Guilin Day 4: Beijing-Guilin

Day 5: Guilin

Li River Four-Star Cruise (Zhenghang)--Ruyi Peak--Yangshuo West Street

4+ stars Hotel

Breakfast & Lunch

 

Board the Zhenghang 4-Star Cruise for a scenic journey on the Li River (Bamboo River to Longtou Mountain), cruising for approximately 240 minutes through the stunning 

5A-rated Li River landscapes. This is currently the highest-grade operating cruise ship on the river, offering views of iconic sites like Xingping's charming landscape, the 

Yellow Cloth Reflection, Nine Horses Painting Hill, Stone Waves in Mist, and Yangdi Waterfall. The cruise provides bilingual commentary in Mandarin and English, along 

with a buffet offering both Chinese and Western options. During the cruise, you will also pass Xingping Ancient Town, one of Yangshuo's most distinctive towns, where 

you can admire the classic Yellow Cloth Reflection, often featured on the 20-yuan RMB note.

 

Note: If the four-star cruise is unavailable due to special circumstances, the itinerary will be adjusted to a three-star cruise from Mopan Mountain to Yangshuo, and a 

complimentary meal will be provided at no extra charge.

 

Afterward, take the cable car to the top of Ruyi Peak, offering a panoramic view of Yangshuo (tour duration approximately 120 minutes). Ruyi Peak features a 360-degree 

observation platform where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, such as Yulong River, Moon Mountain, and the Ten-Mile Gallery, which 

resemble a painting of paradise.

 

In the evening, enjoy some free time to explore Yangshuo West Street, known for its vibrant, international atmosphere. It's best to visit after 9:00 PM for a lively experience (no transportation or guide provided during this free time).

Day 5: Guilin Day 5: Guilin Day 5: Guilin

Day 6: Guilin

Hot Air Balloon--Yulong River Bamboo Rafting--Silver Cave--Impression Liu Sanjie Show

4+ stars Hotels

Breakfast & Lunch

 

Have you ever experienced a hot air balloon ride offering a bird's-eye view of Yangshuo? Take a ride in a hot air balloon, rising 30-80 meters (depending on weather 

conditions), and enjoy panoramic views of the winding Yulong River, surrounded by majestic peaks, scenic villages, and rising mist. The landscape unfolds like an ink wash 

painting, offering a one-of-a-kind experience.

 

Not: If due to unforeseen circumstances, the hot air balloon experience cannot take place, the itinerary will automatically be adjusted to a visit to the idyllic Peach Blossom 

Spring, with no additional cost.

 

Explore the Silver Cave, a karst wonder located in Guilin (AAAA-rated scenic area, approximately 60 minutes of touring). Silver Cave is a typical example of karst topography, 

and even former U.S. President Bill Clinton was such a fan that he postponed a flight to Hong Kong in 1998 just to visit the cave!

 

Enjoy a bamboo raft ride on the Yulong River (approximately 40 minutes, depending on water conditions). Known for being “not just like the Li River, but even more 

beautiful,” the river has been praised by CCTV as one of the most scenic spots in Yangshuo.

 

Note:

1. Pregnant women, disabled individuals, elderly people aged 70 and above, and children under 1 meter in height are not permitted to ride the raft. Children over 1 meter 

must purchase an adult ticket and ride with an adult.

2. Visitors weighing over 200 pounds must book a private raft, and if the combined weight of two people exceeds 320 pounds, they will also need to have separate rafts.

3. The bamboo rafts are for two people, and if there is an odd number of passengers, an additional fee for an empty seat will apply, with the specific fee determined by the 

scenic area.

 

In the evening, enjoy the spectacular Impression Liu Sanjie show (approximately 70 minutes), which takes place in the world's largest mountain-water outdoor theater. 

This grand performance blends the culture of the Guangxi ethnic minorities with the talents of China’s elite artists and is the first-ever "mountain-water real-life show" of 

its kind.

 

If the Impression Liu Sanjie performance is canceled due to uncontrollable circumstances, it will be replaced with the Eternal Love show, with no additional charges.

Day 6: Guilin Day 6: Guilin Day 6: Guilin

Day 7: Guilin-Shanghai

Flight to Shanghai

4+ stars Hotels

Breakfast & Lunch

 

After a hearty breakfast, you will be transferred to the airport for your flight to Shanghai, a dazzling metropolis that effortlessly blends tradition with futuristic innovation. Upon arrival, your guide will assist with the transfer to your hotel. The afternoon is yours to enjoy at leisure—whether you choose to unwind at the hotel or begin exploring the city’s vibrant streets, Shanghai offers something to surprise at every corner.

Recommended Activities:
Spend the afternoon browsing through high-end shopping centers on Nanjing Road, or stroll through boutique galleries and cafés in the French Concession, where tree-lined avenues evoke a nostalgic European charm. You may also take this opportunity to shop for fine Chinese silk, pearls, or tea as meaningful keepsakes of your journey.

Evening Option:
As the city lights begin to twinkle, we recommend a Huangpu River night cruise, where you'll sail past the glowing Bund on one side and the gleaming skyscrapers of Lujiazui on the other. The contrast of old and new, tradition and modernity, is one of Shanghai's most enchanting sights—a perfect close to your first night in the city.

Day 7: Guilin-Shanghai Day 7: Guilin-Shanghai Day 7: Guilin-Shanghai

Day 8: Shanghai

Qibao Ancient Town--Oriental Pearl Tower--Yuyuan Garden--Nanjing Road--The Bund

4+ stars Hotels

Breakfast & Lunch

 

This morning, venture to Qibao Ancient Town, a charming water town nestled in the suburbs of Shanghai. Stroll past stone bridges, riverside teahouses, and traditional snack stalls, getting a taste of the city’s slower-paced past.

Next, head back to the city center to visit the iconic Oriental Pearl Tower. Enjoy panoramic views of Shanghai from its observation deck before stepping into the Shanghai History Museum located at its base.

Continue to the Yu Garden, a classical Chinese garden with exquisite pavilions, rockeries, and koi-filled ponds, nestled within the bustling Yuyuan Bazaar.

In the afternoon, explore Nanjing Road, Shanghai’s premier shopping street, followed by a relaxing walk along the Bund, where East meets West in a captivating blend of colonial architecture and modern design.

Recommended Activities:
You may wish to sample local snacks at Yuyuan Bazaar, enjoy a traditional tea or silk experience, or end the day with a rooftop drink overlooking the sparkling lights of the Bund.

Day 8: Shanghai Day 8: Shanghai Day 8: Shanghai

Day 9: Shanghai Departure

Jade Buddha Temple--Tianzifang--Transfer to airport

None

Breakfast

 

Enjoy a relaxed morning breakfast at your hotel and take in the last moments of your journey in this dynamic city. Depending on your flight schedule, you may have time to explore nearby attractions or simply reflect on your adventure through China’s cultural and natural wonders.

After breakfast, check out of your hotel and enjoy a visit to the Jade Buddha Temple, known for its stunning jade statues.

Then Explore the artsy area of Tianzifang, filled with boutique shops and cafes.

Finally, we will provide you with a transfer to the airport or train station for your departure, taking with you cherished memories of your classic journey through China. 

Day 9: Shanghai Departure Day 9: Shanghai Departure Day 9: Shanghai Departure

Why Choose Intoexplore

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Every itinerary is designed with comfort and authenticity in mind. We skip the tourist traps and shopping stops to let you truly enjoy the culture, scenery, and stories behind each destination—worry-free and meaningful.
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We tailor each journey to your schedule, interests, and budget. Whether you're a solo traveler, couple, or group, we work closely with you to design a personalized travel experience that fits your style and needs.
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From one-day tours to small group adventures, family trips to corporate visits—we offer a full range of travel styles. No matter your purpose or preference, we have the right program to match your expectations.
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With experienced local guides, licensed vehicles, and carefully selected hotels, we ensure safety, quality, and comfort throughout your trip. Our on-the-ground team is always ready to support your journey at every step.

China Travel Customer Reviews & Experiences

At Into Explore, we pride ourselves on creating unforgettable journeys across China. Don't just take our word for it—read what our customers have to say! Here, you can explore firsthand accounts from travelers who have experienced the beauty, culture, and adventures of China with us.

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Clara
July 07,2025
We had a very memorable experience in Xi’An thanks to the expertise and helpfulness from Norman, who helped us planned our trip, and Waldener, our local tour guide from Into Explore. Norman helped us with the itinerary and bookings of transport and accommodations so it was stress free for me. He asked us our preferences when making the rooms reservation to cater to what we like and recommended the best way and places to explore this city. Our tour guide was also flexible with our schedule so we were able to do what we wanted and working around the weather. We were supposed to go Mt Hua on the 2nd day of our tour but it was forecasted to rain. He switched our itinerary around so we could climb Mt Hua on the 3rd day instead when the rain had stopped. Thank you Into Explore for giving us peace of mind to sit back and enjoy our vacation.
Xi'an to Mount Hua Hiking Tour 1 Xi'an to Mount Hua Hiking Tour 2 Xi'an to Mount Hua Hiking Tour 3 Xi'an to Mount Hua Hiking Tour 4
Destination(s): Beijing,Xian,Shanghai
Date of Experience: May 30,2025
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Fernando MARTINEZ
June 05,2025
Fue una buena decisión hacer el Circulo de Oro contratando a Into Explore. Una empresa confiable con una muy buena organización siempre pendientes de nuestros gustos y preferencias. La experiencia de la visita a la Gran Muralla los Soldados Terracota, el Jardín Yu y Shanghái fueron muy interesantes y aprendimos mucho sobre las distintas Dinastías y la historia de China.
Xi'an to Mount Hua Hiking Tour 1 Xi'an to Mount Hua Hiking Tour 2 Xi'an
Destination(s): Beijing,Chongqing,Zhangjiajie
Date of Experience: June 12,2025
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Nataša G
May 2025 • Couples
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For smooth travels, I recommend this agency
This agency made sure my trip was 10/10! And I loved the smooth and fast communication we got. We were able to explore China at its finest and had the best time of our lives. If I had any questions during our travel, Vicky was able to help me and solve it immediately. I recommend this agency very much. Thank you!!!
Giovanni D
Apr 2025 • Friends
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Super Agency
Super organized travel agency, it met the thousand requests made and created a tailor-made travel package. Constant support both in the organizational phase before departure and during the trip. Drivers and guides provided during our itinerary super competent and kind. I highly recommend their services and will turn to them for my next trip to China
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Anna
Jun 17, 2025
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Thank you so much for the help you gave…
Thank you so much for the help you gave during my travel process, I would highly recommend your company anytime from the smooth experience you gave. Looking forward for more trips with you.
Robert Gex
Apr 15, 2025
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Independent travel by train in China…
Independent travel by train in China can be daunting ordeal. We decided to use Intoexplore for booking the trip and are very happy we did. It almost felt like Norman was a family member guiding us through how to use Alipay for payments in China to where to find the ticket office in the train station to convert digital tickets to paper. He was always available (sometimes at 6 am!) to answer any question and solve any problems that arose .. I would strongly recommend him to anyone who is thinking about independent travel to China .

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