How to Plan Your 11 Day Small Group Tour of Beijing, Xian, Zhangjiajie, and Shanghai without any Shopping Experience

If you’re looking for an all-inclusive tour that takes you on a whirlwind adventure through the most breathtaking destinations of China without wasting your precious time on shopping stops, this is the perfect package for you. From the iconic landmarks in Beijing to the stunning vistas in Zhangjiajie and from the world-famous Terracotta Warriors in Xian to the buzzing metropolis of Shanghai, this 11-day small group tour will take your breath away with every step of the way.

Overview

This 11-day tour package allows you to explore the most popular destinations of China without any shopping detours. You’ll have a chance to visit some of China’s most significant cultural and historic landmarks and experience the natural wonders of the country with a small group of fellow travelers. Your private drivers with air-conditioned vehicles and local English-speaking guides will ensure a smooth and comfortable experience throughout your journey.

What’s Included

• Dinner
• Private drivers with air-conditioned vehicles
• Private local English-speaking guides
• International airfares
• Entry visa fees
• Tips or gratuities for guides and drivers
• 9 nights accommodation
• Breakfast for 10 days

Itinerary

Day 1: Airport Pick-up in Beijing

Your tour guide will pick you up from Beijing Capital International Airport upon arrival and take you to your hotel for check-in. You can spend the rest of the day exploring the local area.

Day 2: Tiananmen Square, Forbidden City, and Temple of Heaven

In the morning, visit Tiananmen Square, the largest city square in the world. Then head to the Forbidden City, which was once the palace of Chinese emperors. In the afternoon, visit Temple of Heaven, an imperial temple where emperors prayed for good harvests.

Day 3: Mutianyu Great Wall Tour

Today, you’ll visit the Mutianyu section of the Great Wall. It’s one of the best-preserved sections of the Great Wall that’s less crowded than other popular sections, which means you’ll have more space and time to take breathtaking photos.

Day 4: Summer Palace, Beijing Hutong Tour, and Fly to Xi’an

Begin the day with a visit to Summer Palace, a large imperial garden that combines nature and architecture with perfection. After lunch, take a Beijing hutong tour on a tricycle and visit a local family. In the evening, take a flight to Xian.

Day 5: Terracotta Army, Local Family Visit, Ancient Pagoda and Tang Dynasty Dancing Show

Visit the world-famous Terracotta Army, one of the most significant archaeological discoveries of the 20th century. After the visit, head to visit a local family and learn more about the local culture. Later, visit the Big Wild Goose Pagoda and enjoy the Tang Dynasty Dancing Show.

Day 6: City Highlights Tour in Xi’an and Fly from Xi’an to Zhangjiajie

In the morning, visit the ancient City Wall, Bell Tower, and Drum Tower in Xi’an. In the afternoon, head to the airport for the flight to Zhangjiajie.

Day 7: Tour in Zhangjiajie National Forest Park

Today, you’ll visit the stunning Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, which inspired the movie Avatar. Go on a cable car ride to the top of the mountain to enjoy the magnificent views of the city.

Day 8: Explore Zhangjiajie Glass Bridge and Hallelujah Mountain and Fly to Shanghai

In the morning, visit the world’s longest and highest glass bridge, then take a boat ride in the Bailong Elevator to reach the top of the Hallelujah Mountain. After lunch, fly to Shanghai.

Day 9: City Highlights and the Bund Riverside Tour

Experience the traditional Chinese architecture at Yuyuan Garden and the Jade Buddha Temple before heading to the iconic Bund Riverside. Later explore the trendy district of Xintiandi.

Day 10: Zhujiajiao Water Town and Shanghai Tower

Drive to Zhujiajiao Water Town, a unique ancient town with a combination of rivers, bridges, and gardens. In the afternoon, take an elevator ride to the top of Shanghai Tower to admire the panoramic views of the city.

Day 11: Departure

Your unforgettable journey comes to an end as you board the flight home.

Meeting and Pickup

Pickup point

Beijing Capital International Airport, Shunyi District, Beijing, China.

Start time

09:00 AM

Pickup details

On the first day, your guide will pick you up at Beijing Capital International Airport. During the tour, your guide will pick you up at the hotel each morning, except the last day.

Final Thoughts

The 11 Day Small Group Tour of Beijing, Xian, Zhangjiajie, and Shanghai without any shopping interference offers the perfect mix of culture, history, and natural landscapes. You’ll have an opportunity to explore China’s most iconic landmarks and local families, creating wonderful memories that will last a lifetime. Book the tour now and discover the best of China with an experienced team of private drivers and local guides. Book the tour here.

FAQs About Beijing

If you’re planning to travel to the vibrant city of Beijing, this comprehensive FAQ guide will be helpful for you. We’ll answer the most frequently asked questions about the city, giving you insights and recommendations for your travel planning.

1. What is Beijing famous for?

Beijing is known for its rich history, culture, and tradition. The city is home to the famous Great Wall of China, the Forbidden City, and the Temple of Heaven. It’s also known for its delicious food, bustling markets, and exciting nightlife scene. Beijing is also the political and cultural capital of China, making it a hub of activity and innovation.

2. What is the best time to visit Beijing?

The best time to visit Beijing is from April to May or September to early November. During these months, the weather is mild, and the city is not too crowded. The spring season is ideal for exploring the city’s outdoor attractions, while autumn is perfect for taking in the colorful foliage and attending cultural festivals.

3. What are the must-see attractions in Beijing?

The Great Wall of China, the Forbidden City, the Temple of Heaven, the Summer Palace, and the Beihai Park are some of the must-see attractions in Beijing. The city is also home to world-class museums, such as the National Museum of China and the Palace Museum. Exploring the ancient hutongs, visiting the local markets, and savoring the delicious street food are other experiences that should not be missed.

4. What are the best places to shop in Beijing?

Beijing is known for its vibrant shopping scene, with a vast range of options from luxury shopping centers to local markets. Some of the best places to shop in Beijing are the Wangfujing street, Xiushui Silk Market, Panjiayuan Antique Market, and the Yashow Market. Shopping in Beijing is a thrilling experience, and you can find everything from modern fashion to traditional handicrafts.

5. What is the local cuisine of Beijing?

The local cuisine of Beijing is known for its rich flavors and unique cooking techniques. Some of the famous dishes that you must try in Beijing are Peking Roast Duck, Zhajiangmian (noodles with soybean paste), Jiaozi (dumplings), Chaogan (stewed pig liver), and Mongolian Hotpot. Beijing is also home to many street food vendors, offering mouth-watering snacks such as Jianbing (Chinese crepes), baozi (steamed buns), and roujiamo (Chinese-style hamburger).

6. How do I get around Beijing?

Beijing has an extensive public transportation system that includes subway, buses, taxis, and shared bikes. The subway system is the most convenient and reliable way to get around the city, with 22 lines covering the main parts of the city. Taxis can be hailed on the street or booked through apps such as Didi Chuxing. Shared bikes are also a popular option among locals and visitors, with several companies offering dockless bike sharing services throughout the city.

7. What are some cultural etiquette tips for visiting Beijing?

When visiting Beijing, it’s essential to be mindful of the cultural norms and customs. Some cultural etiquette tips to keep in mind are: – Greet people with a nod or a slight bow. – Use both hands when giving something to someone. – Respect elders and authority figures. – Remove your shoes when entering someone’s home. – Do not discuss sensitive political topics.

8. What are the emergency numbers for Beijing?

In case of an emergency, the following numbers can be called: – Police: 110 – Fire: 119 – Medical emergencies: 120 – Tourist information hotline: 12301

9. What are some safety tips for traveling to Beijing?

Beijing is a safe city, but as with any travel destination, it’s essential to take precautions to ensure your safety. Some safety tips for traveling to Beijing are: – Be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas. – Avoid drinking tap water. – Use sunscreen and wear protective gear to protect against air pollution. – Be cautious when using ATMs and avoid displaying large amounts of money in public. – Learn some basic Chinese phrases for communication.

10. What is the currency used in Beijing?

The currency used in Beijing, as well as the rest of China, is the Chinese Yuan Renminbi (CNY). It’s advised to exchange currency at a bank or authorized currency exchange shops.

Book Your Tour Now

Beijing is a city that is full of history, culture, and adventure. With its rich heritage, delicious cuisine, and bustling markets, it’s a must-visit destination for any traveler. By keeping in mind these FAQs and travel tips, you can ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip to Beijing.

How to spend your time as a tourist in Beijing?

Beijing, the capital city of China, is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. It is a city with a rich history and culture, stunning architecture, and delicious cuisine. As a result, planning a trip to Beijing can be overwhelming, especially if it’s your first time visiting the city. In this guide, we’ll take you through everything you need to know to spend your time as a tourist in Beijing.

1. Visit the Great Wall of China

It goes without saying that you simply cannot go to Beijing without a visit to the Great Wall of China. This iconic piece of architecture spans over 13,000 miles and has been listed as one of the Seven Wonders of the World. If you’re short on time, we recommend visiting the Mutianyu section, which is less crowded than some of the other sections of the wall.

2. Explore the Forbidden City

The Forbidden City, also known as the Palace Museum, is a sprawling complex that was once the home of the emperor and his royal family. It contains over 9,000 rooms, and it’s one of the most impressive examples of imperial architecture in China. We suggest hiring a guide to fully appreciate the history and beauty of this captivating site.

3. Try some traditional Chinese cuisine

Beijing cuisine is a combination of dishes from across China. The city’s most famous dish is Peking duck, which is a roasted duck dish that’s been enjoyed here for centuries. For an authentic experience, we recommend visiting the Quanjude Restaurant, which has been serving Peking duck for over 150 years.

4. Experience the thrill of a Hutong Tour

A hutong is a traditional Chinese alley or lane, usually surrounded by courtyard houses. Taking a tour of the hutongs is an excellent way to experience the traditional way of life in Beijing. You can either take a walking or cycling tour and explore the narrow alleyways while learning about the history of the city.

5. Spend an afternoon at the Summer Palace

The Summer Palace is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is considered to be the best-preserved imperial garden in China. It’s a vast complex of lakes, gardens, and palaces, with beautiful views at every turn. We recommend taking a boat ride on the lake and strolling through the gardens.

6. Visit the Temple of Heaven

The Temple of Heaven is considered to be the holiest of Beijing’s imperial temples. Built during the Ming Dynasty, the temple was the site of the emperor’s annual prayer ceremony for a good harvest. The temple’s beautiful architecture and unique design make it one of the most impressive sites to visit in Beijing.

7. Experience modern Beijing at a shopping mall

For those who want to experience modern-day Beijing, there are plenty of options for exploring the city’s shopping malls. The Sanlitun area is known as the city’s most fashionable shopping district, with big international brands and trendy boutiques. If you’re looking for something more traditional, head to the famous Silk Street Market for some authentic Chinese souvenirs.

8. Catch a show at the National Center for the Performing Arts

The National Center for the Performing Arts is a world-class venue that hosts some of the city’s most impressive music, dance, and theater performances. The Center’s futuristic architecture is also worth admiring, with its glass dome floating atop an artificial lake.

Book Your Tour Now

Beijing is a city that’s full of culture, history, and fascinating experiences. From exploring the ancient architecture of the city to tasting some of the world’s best cuisine, there’s something for every taste in Beijing. With this guide, you’ll have a good idea of where to start and what to include in your itinerary, so go ahead and start exploring this amazing city.