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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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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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
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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Tripadvisor
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Nataša G
May 2025 • Couples
5 of 5 bubbles
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
5 of 5 bubbles
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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Trustpilot
Excellent
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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