12-Day Yangtze Cruise Tour, Guilin, Chengdu, Shanghai Tour

Longji Rice Terraces

After breakfast, head out to explore Guilin’s rice terraces. A four-hour drive takes you to the base of the mountain, followed by a 35-minute walk to Ping'an Village. This village is famous for the 650-year-old Longji Rice Terraces, a true national treasure. The terraced fields create a breathtaking view, like waves of green or gold.

Next, visit Huangluo Yao Village, nestled along the Jinjiang River. The Yao people, known for their long hair, colorful dances, and traditional clothing, bring this place to life with their culture. The tour continues with a hike to the Nine Dragons and Five Tigers viewing platform for even more stunning views. Along the way, you’ll learn about the unique cultures of the region’s ethnic minorities.

Ten-mile Gallery

After breakfast, start your China adventure with a Li River cruise. The scenic area features the world’s most stunning karst landscapes. You’ll see mountains, clear waters, caves, pools, and waterfalls. After about 4 hours, you’ll arrive in Yangshuo and check into your hotel.

In the afternoon, visit the Ten-mile Gallery, famous for its beautiful countryside views. Stops include the Big Banyan Tree and Moon Hill, where you can hike to the top for panoramic views.

As evening falls, your guide will take you to West Street in the heart of Yangshuo. This 517-meter street is known for its exotic charm, lined with historic buildings, local shops, and street food.

Li River Cruise

In the morning, enjoy a bike ride along the Yulong River, surrounded by beautiful karst peaks. Then, visit a local farmer’s home to learn about traditional rural life and farming. Next, experience bamboo rafting while enjoying views of the "Hundred Mile Gallery."

In the afternoon, return to West Street in Yangshuo for a cooking class. An expert chef will teach you how to prepare traditional Chinese dishes, which you’ll enjoy for dinner. Afterward, your driver will take you back to Guilin for an overnight stay.

After breakfast, your private driver will take you to Guilin Airport for a flight to Chengdu. Upon arrival, the rest of the day is free for you to explore and enjoy the city.

Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda

Begin your day at the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, where you can see these famous pandas up close. Known for their black-and-white fur and calm nature, they are a symbol of Sichuan. Then, visit the peaceful Wenshu Monastery.

In the afternoon, head to People's Park to enjoy local tea culture. It's a great place to experience Chengdu's charm. Afterwards, stroll through the historic Jinli Ancient Street and try some Sichuan dishes.

Ciqikou Ancient Town

After breakfast, you'll head to the train station for a high-speed train ride to Chongqing. Once you arrive, a local guide will meet you and start your city tour. Your first stop is Ciqikou Ancient Town, also known as Little Chongqing.

Next, visit the Three Gorges Museum to learn about Chongqing’s history and art, with a focus on Ba-Yu and Sanxia cultures. After the museum, your guide will take you to Chaotianmen Dock to board your Yangtze River cruise ship.

Yangtze River Cruise

After breakfast, your Yangtze River cruise begins. Start with a Tai Chi class led by an expert instructor. Tai Chi helps improve fitness, circulation, and reduces stress. Afterward, enjoy a lecture about the history of the Yangtze River region. Then, relax with a coffee on the sundeck.

You'll also take a shore excursion to Shibaozhai Pagoda, one of the "Eight Strange Constructions of the World." This 56-meter wooden pagoda, built on a cliff during the Qing Dynasty, has 12 floors and no nails. Climb to the top for breathtaking views of the river.

Three Gorges

After a hearty breakfast on board, the cruise will pass through the breathtaking Three Gorges: Qutang, Wu, and Xiling. You’ll be amazed by the towering cliffs and lush greenery.

A smaller boat will take you to explore the serene Shennv Stream. Drift along the narrow waterway and enjoy the untouched natural beauty. You’ll also experience Tujia culture with local music and dance performances. After the excursion, return to your cruise ship.

Three Gorges Dam

Enjoy breakfast on board before disembarking. The grand Three Gorges Dam will be the final highlight of your Yangtze River cruise. As the world’s largest water control project, it stretches 2,308 meters and rises 185 meters high. Tanziling, at 262.48 meters, offers the best view of the dam. The Commemorating Park, located in the lower reaches of the Yangtze River, provides a stunning panoramic view.

After the visit, you’ll take a bus to the Yichang Three Gorges Center Cruise Terminal, where a private driver will take you to Yichang East Railway Station for your high-speed train to Shanghai.

Shanghai Museum

After breakfast, start your Shanghai tour at the Shanghai Museum, where you can explore collections of bronze, ceramics, calligraphy, and paintings.

Next, visit Yu Garden, a famous classical garden in the Jiangnan region. It was originally built as a peaceful retreat for the owner's parents and reflects traditional Chinese garden design. Nearby, Yu Bazaar offers local snacks and traditional crafts.

Then, head to the Shanghai World Financial Center (SWFC) for a panoramic view of Shanghai’s modern skyline. Your tour continues to Nanjing Road, one of the world’s busiest shopping streets.

Finish the day with a walk along the Bund, where you’ll see 52 buildings with various international architectural styles. End your day with a relaxing evening cruise on the Huangpu River, enjoying the stunning city lights reflecting on the water.

The Shop in Tianzifang

In the morning, begin your tour with a visit to the Jade Buddha Temple. This peaceful spot is known to locals as "a piece of pure land in the heart of the city." Next, head to Tianzifang, an arts district made from old Shikumen buildings, where you can explore art studios and feel the essence of old Shanghai.

After the tour, your driver will take you to the airport. This concludes your 12-day journey through China, including a Yangtze River cruise. See you next time!