China Golden Triangle with the Magic of Chongqing

This 14-day private tour takes you across four of China’s most iconic cities, combining world-famous cultural landmarks with unforgettable urban experiences. It is an ideal choice for first-time visitors to China.
From the imperial grandeur of Beijing, to the ancient heritage of Xi’an, to the lively mountain city of Chongqing, and finally to the modern skyline of Shanghai, this journey showcases the rich diversity of Chinese history, culture, local life, and contemporary cityscapes.

This itinerary is for reference only. You are welcome to share your travel preferences with us, and our travel specialists will tailor the trip to match your interests, travel pace, and budget.

---

🗺 Suggested 14-Day Itinerary

Day 1–5 | Beijing

Imperial history, the Forbidden City, Hutong culture, the Temple of Heaven, the Great Wall, Yuanmingyuan, the Olympic Park, the Bird’s Nest, the Water Cube, and the Summer Palace — a comprehensive introduction to the grandeur and transformation of China’s capital.

Day 6–8 | Xi’an

The Terracotta Warriors, a traditional cave dwelling experience, the Ancient City Wall, Guangren Temple, the Muslim Quarter, the Drum Tower, the Bell Tower, Yongxingfang, as well as the Xi’an Museum and Small Wild Goose Pagoda — all offering a deeper look into the heritage and local life of this ancient capital of thirteen dynasties.

Day 9–11 | Chongqing

Jiefangbei, the Mountain City Trail, Shibati, Hongyadong, Longmenhao Old Street, Xiahaoli, Zhonglou Square, Danzishi Old Street, Eling No.2 Factory, Liziba, and Guanyinqiao — showcasing Chongqing’s unique mountain-city layout, riverside charm, and old-city character.

Day 12–14 | Shanghai

Shanghai Tower, the Bund, Zhujiajiao, Yu Garden, the City God Temple, and Tianzifang — bringing the journey to a close with a mix of modern landmarks and traditional Shanghai culture.

---

⭐ Signature Experiences

Discover the Hidden Halls of the Forbidden City

Most standard tours focus only on the central axis and the six main halls. With your private guide, you will go beyond the usual route and gain deeper insight into the Forbidden City’s architectural details, historical layers, and imperial stories.

Walk on One of the Best-Rated Sections of the Great Wall

Visit the Mutianyu section of the Great Wall, one of the best-preserved and most scenic stretches. Walk along the ancient ramparts and watchtowers while enjoying breathtaking views of the wall winding across the mountains.

Taste the Authentic Flavors of China

Enjoy Beijing roast duck, one of the city’s most famous signature dishes and a must-try culinary experience for first-time visitors.

Unveil the Secrets of the Terracotta Army and Make Your Own Warrior

In Xi’an, you will visit the Terracotta Warriors Museum and admire one of the world’s greatest archaeological discoveries up close. You will also visit a traditional cave dwelling and learn to make your own mini terracotta warrior, turning history into a hands-on cultural experience.

Walk on Xi’an’s Ancient City Wall

Step onto Xi’an’s Ancient City Wall and enjoy a different perspective of the city’s layout and skyline. Whether you choose to walk leisurely along the top or simply pause to take in the view, you will feel the historical depth of this ancient capital.

 

Explore the Magical Layers of Chongqing

Chongqing is one of the most distinctive stops on this journey. You will visit iconic areas such as Jiefangbei, the Mountain City Trail, Shibati, and Hongyadong, while also exploring Longmenhao Old Street, Xiahaoli, Eling No.2 Factory, Liziba, and Guanyinqiao. Together, they reveal the unique charm of this mountainous city, where steep terrain, layered streets, and old-meets-new neighborhoods create an unforgettable atmosphere.

Discover the Hidden Stories of the Bund and Ascend Shanghai Tower

In Shanghai, you will not only ascend Shanghai Tower for sweeping views of the skyline, but also gain a deeper understanding of the Bund’s historic architecture and the city’s glamorous past, where tradition and modern life continue to exist side by side.

---

Suggested Itinerary

Day 1 | Arrival in Beijing

Upon arrival in Beijing, your private guide will welcome you at the airport arrival hall. A comfortable private vehicle and experienced driver will then transfer you directly to your hotel. We hope this smooth and worry-free arrival service will give your China journey a relaxed and pleasant beginning.

Day 2 | Beijing | Forbidden City and Hutong Alleyways

In the morning, start from Tiananmen Square, one of the most symbolic landmarks in China. Then visit the Forbidden City, the largest and best-preserved imperial palace complex in China, with a history of more than 500 years.
Most tours focus only on the main central axis, but with your private guide, you will enjoy a more in-depth visit. At lunch, savor Beijing’s famous Peking duck and watch the traditional carving technique before tasting this classic dish. In the afternoon, stroll through the Hutong alleyways to experience the everyday life and old-city atmosphere of Beijing.

Day 3 | Beijing | Temple of Heaven and the Great Wall

In the morning, visit the Temple of Heaven, one of Beijing’s most important imperial altars, where emperors once prayed for good harvests. If you arrive early, you may also see local residents doing morning exercises, practicing tai chi, singing, or dancing in the surrounding park.
In the afternoon, head to the Mutianyu section of the Great Wall. Although it is located some distance from downtown Beijing, its beautiful mountain scenery and well-preserved structure make it one of the most rewarding Great Wall experiences.

Day 4 | Beijing | Yuanmingyuan and Olympic Park

In the morning, visit Yuanmingyuan and reflect on the historical memory carried by this former imperial garden site.
In the afternoon, continue to the Olympic Park to see Beijing’s modern landmarks — the Bird’s Nest and the Water Cube — and discover another side of the capital beyond its ancient heritage.

Day 5 | Beijing to Xi’an | Summer Palace and High-Speed Train

Visit the Summer Palace, a magnificent imperial garden once used by the royal family as a summer retreat, where elegant architecture blends beautifully with lakes and hills.
Afterward, transfer to the railway station and take a high-speed train from Beijing to Xi’an, experiencing the comfort and efficiency of China’s modern rail network.

Day 6 | Xi’an | Terracotta Warriors and Traditional Cave Dwelling

In the morning, visit the Terracotta Warriors Museum and uncover the mystery of this underground army. Admire the life-sized warrior figures up close and learn about the historical significance and craftsmanship behind this world-famous archaeological site.
After that, visit a traditional cave dwelling and try making your own mini terracotta warrior by hand. Back in the city, walk on Xi’an’s Ancient City Wall and experience the enduring historical charm and urban character of this former capital.

Day 7 | Xi’an | Guangren Temple, Muslim Quarter, Bell Tower, Drum Tower, and Yongxingfang

In the morning, visit Guangren Temple, then head to the Muslim Quarter to wander through its lively streets, taste authentic local Muslim food, and experience one of Xi’an’s most vibrant neighborhoods.
In the afternoon, continue to the Drum Tower, Bell Tower, and Yongxingfang to appreciate the blend of traditional city layout and modern daily life in the heart of Xi’an.

Day 8 | Xi’an to Chongqing | Xi’an Highlights and High-Speed Train

Continue exploring Xi’an’s rich history with visits to the Xi’an Museum and the Small Wild Goose Pagoda.
In the afternoon, transfer to the railway station and take a high-speed train from Xi’an to Chongqing, beginning the mountain-city section of your journey.

Day 9 | Chongqing | Jiefangbei, Mountain City Trail, Shibati, and Hongyadong

Today focuses on some of Chongqing’s most iconic city landmarks. You will visit Jiefangbei, the Mountain City Trail, Shibati, and Hongyadong, where modern urban energy meets the atmosphere of old Chongqing.
Built against the hillside with layers of stilted architecture, Hongyadong is one of the city’s most recognizable night-view landmarks and is often described as a real-life version of Spirited Away.

Day 10 | Chongqing | Longmenhao Old Street, Xiahaoli, Zhonglou Square, and Danzishi Old Street

Continue exploring Chongqing’s historic neighborhoods and renewed urban spaces with visits to Longmenhao Old Street, Xiahaoli, Zhonglou Square, and Danzishi Old Street.
This day is more focused on city walking and neighborhood exploration, offering a deeper understanding of Chongqing’s layered cityscape, sloping streets, and riverside scenery.

Day 11 | Chongqing | Eling No.2 Factory, Liziba, Guanyinqiao, and Train to Shanghai

Visit Eling No.2 Factory, Liziba, and Guanyinqiao. Eling No.2 Factory combines creative culture with city views, Liziba is famous for its monorail passing through a residential building, and Guanyinqiao presents a more energetic and modern commercial side of Chongqing.
Afterward, transfer to the railway station and take a train to Shanghai.

Day 12 | Shanghai | Shanghai Tower and Zhujiajiao

In the morning, ascend Shanghai Tower for panoramic views of the city and experience the scale and dynamism of modern Shanghai.
In the afternoon, visit Zhujiajiao, where canals, stone bridges, and old lanes reveal a gentler and more traditional side of the Shanghai region.

Day 13 | Shanghai | Yu Garden, City God Temple, Tianzifang, and the Bund

In the morning, visit Yu Garden, a classical Chinese garden known for its rockeries, ponds, zigzag bridges, and elegant landscaping, making it a wonderful introduction to traditional Chinese aesthetics. Then continue to the City God Temple area to enjoy the lively atmosphere of Shanghai’s old town.
In the afternoon, head to Tianzifang and wander through its Shikumen lanes, where galleries, boutiques, and cafés create a distinctive Shanghai lifestyle atmosphere.
In the evening, go beyond simply taking photos at the Bund. Delve into its historic architecture and cultural background, and revisit the glamour of 1920s Shanghai while listening to the hidden stories behind these iconic buildings.

Day 14 | Departure from Shanghai

Your private guide, driver, and vehicle will wait for you in the hotel lobby and escort you to the airport on time, helping ensure a smooth and worry-free departure. This marks a pleasant and memorable end to your China journey.

---

Price

US$1,000 p/p

The final price will vary depending on your travel date, number of travelers, hotel category, and customization requirements.

---

Price Includes

✔ Private air-conditioned vehicle with a dedicated driver throughout the trip
✔ Professional English-speaking guide service throughout the trip
✔ All high-speed train tickets included in the itinerary
✔ All entrance tickets to the attractions listed in the itinerary
✔ Hotel accommodation as listed in the itinerary( 2 people sharing a room)
✔ Daily breakfast and dinner
✔ 24/7 travel support service