6 Days Shanghai & Xi'an In‑Depth Cultural Tour

This 6-day cultural journey takes you through two of China's most iconic cities—Shanghai and Xi'an. Begin in Shanghai with a blend of classical charm and modern marvels: visit Yuyuan Garden, The Bund, and the Oriental Pearl Tower. Take a scenic cruise on the Huangpu River and explore the ancient water town of Qibao. Then fly to Xi'an, China's ancient capital, to marvel at the legendary Terracotta Warriors & Horses, walk along the historic city wall, and immerse yourself in centuries of imperial history. This itinerary offers a perfect balance of tradition and modernity, architecture and atmosphere, discovery and reflection.

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  • Tour Code: ST-SX-06
  • Time: 6 Days
  • Cities: Shanghai - Xi'an
  • Accommodation: 5 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.

Day1: Shanghai

Arrive in Shanghai and transfer to the hotel

4+ stars Hotels

None

 

Upon arrival in Shanghai, our guide will meet you at the airport and escort you to your hotel. The rest of the day is at your leisure. Whether you wish to rest after the flight or take a stroll through nearby neighborhoods, today is about settling in and preparing for the days ahead.

Recommended:

Enjoy a relaxing walk along the Xintiandi area for shopping and outdoor cafes

Sample local dishes like Shengjianbao (pan-fried dumplings) at a neighborhood restaurant

Day1: Shanghai Day1: Shanghai Day1: Shanghai

Day 2:Shanghai

Yuyuan Garden--Nanjing Road--The Bund--Huangpu River Cruise--Oriental Pearl Tower

4+ stars Hotels

Breakfast & Lunch

 

Begin your day at Yuyuan Garden, a 400-year-old classical garden known for its exquisite pavilions, rockeries, and koi ponds. After exploring the mysteries of traditional Chinese culture, you can go to the nearby areas to taste traditional Chinese cuisine and purchase some souvenirs.

Next, head to Nanjing Road, the city’s most famous commercial street, bustling with life and energy. Then stroll along The Bund, a scenic waterfront promenade offering views of colonial architecture and Pudong's futuristic skyline.

In the evening, take a Huangpu River cruise, followed by a visit to the Oriental Pearl Tower, where the observation deck gives you stunning panoramic views of the illuminated city.

Recommended:

Try a traditional Shanghai-style lunch such as steamed hairy crab (seasonal)

At night, enjoy a drink at a Bund rooftop bar overlooking the skyline

Day 2:Shanghai Day 2:Shanghai Day 2:Shanghai

Day 3: Shanghai-Xi'an

Jade Buddha Temple--Qibao Ancient Town--Flingt to Xi’an

4+ stars Hotels

Breakfast & Lunch

 

Visit the peaceful Jade Buddha Temple, known for its two exquisite jade Buddha statues brought from Myanmar. Admire the architecture and serene ambiance.

Continue to Qibao Ancient Town, a charming water town with stone bridges, narrow lanes, and local delicacies. Enjoy walking along the canals and sampling street food like Qibao smoked tofu and rice cakes.

Later in the day, transfer to the airport and fly to Xi'an, the ancient heart of imperial China. Upon arrival, meet your Xi'an guide and check into your hotel.

Recommended:

Try sugar-coated haws or other snacks in Qibao

Pack light snacks or reading material for the evening flight

Day 3: Shanghai-Xi'an Day 3: Shanghai-Xi'an Day 3: Shanghai-Xi'an

Day 4: Xi'an

Terracotta Warriors and Horses--Da Ci'en Temple--Big Wild Goose Pagoda--Grand Tang Dynasty Ever Bright City

4+ stars Hotels

Breakfast & Lunch

 

Terracotta Warriors and Horses: Visit the world-famous archaeological site and witness the impressive army of life-sized warriors. Over 8,000 life-size terracotta figurines, horses and chariots were buried underground for over 2,000 years until they were discovered in 1974.

Lunch: Delight in Xi'an's specialty dish, water basin mutton (Shuipen Yangrou).

Da Ci'en Temple: Explore this historic temple complex. This temple was a famous translation site of Buddhist scriptures during the Tang Dynasty. 

Big Wild Goose Pagoda: Admire this iconic Buddhist pagoda, a symbol of Xi'an. If you are interested, you can climb the Big Wild Goose Pagoda (extra charge applies) for a great view of the city.

Grand Tang Dynasty Ever Bright City: Enjoy a vibrant evening in this lively area. It is a unique Tang Dynasty cultural theme imitation complex in China, where you can enjoy rich singing and dancing performances and charming night scenery.

Day 4: Xi'an Day 4: Xi'an Day 4: Xi'an

Day 5: Xi'an

Xi'an Museum--Small Wild Goose Pagoda--Ancient City Wall

4+ stars Hotels

Breakfast & Lunch

 

Begin your day at the Xi'an Museum, a fascinating institution that showcases the rich history of the Shaanxi Province. The museum features a diverse collection of artifacts, including ancient ceramics, coins, and textiles.

Next, visit the Small Wild Goose Pagoda, a lesser-known but equally charming pagoda that dates back to the Tang dynasty. Learn about its historical significance as a site for Buddhist study and practice.

Afterward, explore the Ancient City Wall, one of the best-preserved city walls in China. Stretching over 13 kilometers, it offers stunning views of both the old and new parts of Xi'an. You can walk or bike along the wall, immersing yourself in the city's historical atmosphere while enjoying panoramic vistas.

 

Day 5: Xi'an Day 5: Xi'an Day 5: Xi'an

Day 6: Xi'an Departure

Xi'an Departure

None

Breakfast

 

Enjoy a relaxed morning before your guide transfers you to the airport for your onward flight. Your cultural journey through Shanghai and Xi'an concludes here, with unforgettable memories of China’s ancient and modern wonders.

Recommended:

Pick up souvenirs like shadow puppets or miniature warriors at local markets

Grab a local Roujiamo (Chinese-style burger) as a final taste of Xi’an

Day 6: Xi'an Departure Day 6: Xi'an Departure Day 6: Xi'an Departure

Why Choose Intoexplore

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Authentic Travel, No Shopping Stops
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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Tailor Made Tour, Thoughtful Service
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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Diverse Travel Options, Wide Coverage
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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Local Resources, Professional Team
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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IntoExplore
Excellent
Aurora
July 04,2026
IntoExplore made my Dali-Lijiang trip unforgettable! As a senior traveler, I appreciated the slow pace, comfortable transport, and guides who patiently explained everything. Perfect balance of culture and relaxation. Highly recommend for stress-free travel in China!"
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Destination(s): Beijing,Xian,Shanghai
Date of Experience: May 30,2026
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Eilee
June 05,2026
Honestly, I had a mix of nerves and excitement before this trip. My friends back in Mumbai thought I was crazy – "China? Really?" But I'd been staring at photos of those floating Avatar mountains for years, and I just had to see them for myself. So I booked the Zhangjiajie + Furong Ancient Town package through IntoExplore, and wow, I'm so glad I did.
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Destination(s): Beijing,Chongqing,Zhangjiajie
Date of Experience: June 12,2026
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Tripadvisor
Excellent
Quest197833
May 2026• Couples
5 of 5 bubbles
Very helpful “Into Explore”
I first came across Into Explore while browsing travel reels about China on social media, and their content really stood out. I reached out with a few questions and was pleasantly surprised by how quickly Norman got back to me. To be honest, I was a bit cautious in the beginning—booking something like this online always comes with some uncertainty—but after several conversations and reviewing the proposed itinerary, I felt comfortable proceeding and placed an initial deposit. We traveled as a family, and from start to finish, the experience was incredibly smooth. Norman was flexible, patient, and always accommodating whenever we needed adjustments. Communication was consistent and reliable, which made a big difference. Once we landed in China, everything was handled flawlessly. The planning, coordination, and daily flow of activities were all executed with great attention to detail. We always knew what to expect the next day, which made the entire trip feel effortless and well-managed. Overall, it turned out to be a fantastic experience. I would confidently recommend Into Explore—and Norman in particular—to anyone considering a trip to China.
Anastassia P
5 of 5 bubbles
Very helpful “Into Explore”
I rarely write reviews, but this time I’d like to share my overwhelmingly positive thoughts about this trip. From the day I contacted this company, they have been very attentive and friendly. They did a great job planning my family holiday and supported us every step of the way. They put together a 14-day private tour for us, taking into account all our requests and requirements.In every city we visited, there was a reliable driver, a very nice car, and a guide to assist us throughout the day. I was initially anxious about traveling in a country where people don’t speak much English, but the guides made everything effortlessly convenient, including helping us choose food in local restaurants without English menus.I could go on describing all the wonderful things we saw in China, but to keep it short, I would simply encourage prospective customers to set aside any doubts and trust this company with their holiday planning. Thank you, guys!
Sanja M
April 2026
5 of 5 bubbles
Next level travel agency!
The entire trip organization, travel logistics, itinerary, guides - everything was planned and executed perfectly. Norman was extremely helpful and available for any and all questions or requests we had. Into Explore made our two week China trip easy, hassle free and worth every penny. We would recommend the agency, as well as visiting China to anyone looking for a once-in-a-lifetime trip!
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Trustpilot
Excellent
Javier Miranda
Jun 22, 2026
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Exelente service..
Just recently returned 11 days from China. Arranged by Roy at Intoexplore. It could not have been more perfect. Everything - hotels, transportation, tour guides. We saw things we never would have seen on our own. excellent agency with wonderful service. Highly recommended. Thanks Intoexplore!!
Sangeeta Kaur
Jan 2, 2026
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Fast respond, helpful
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 .
Joel Nunez
Jun 24, 2025
trust-11
This agency has a good communication
The agent are patience when providing details and answering all questions. Every helpful and trustable agent. Highly recommended.

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