China’s Imperial Heritage, Mountain City Energy, Avatar Peaks, and Jiangnan Elegance

Saswati’s Private 15-Day China Tour

Hello Saswati,

I’m Lynn, your China travel consultant.

I have helped many travelers design personalized journeys across China, combining the country’s most iconic highlights with immersive local experiences. From imperial capitals and world-famous historical wonders to dramatic landscapes and vibrant modern cities, this itinerary is designed to offer a smooth, enriching, and memorable first journey through China.

Let’s begin this adventure.

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What I Have Learned about Your Travel Plan:

Trip Overview

Traveler: Saswati Ghosh（Passport Number: P134219BI）,Debashis Ghosh（Passport Number: P134270BI）
Trip Length: 15 Days
Destinations: Beijing, Xi’an, Chongqing, Zhangjiajie, Shanghai, and Suzhou
Travel Style: Private Customized Tour
Travel Consultant: Lynn

This is a suggested private journey designed around China’s most iconic cultural landmarks, dramatic natural scenery, and distinctive urban experiences. Unless otherwise noted, all sightseeing is arranged with a private guide and private vehicle. Daily departure times can be adjusted according to your preferences.

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Suggested 15-Day Itinerary at a Glance

Day 1 | Arrival in Beijing，April. 15, 2026

Transport: Flight (Your arrangements)
Accommodation: Self-arranged
Today's Activities: Airport to Hotel Transfer (Beijing)  

Day 2 | Beijing，April. 16, 2026

Accommodation:  Self-arranged
Today's Activities: Tiananmen Square, the Forbidden City, and hutong alleys by traditional rickshaw

Day 3 | Beijing，April. 17, 2026

Accommodation: Self-arranged
Today's Activities: Temple of Heaven, the Mutianyu Great Wall, and an imperial-style dinner

Day 4 | Beijing to Xi’an，April. 18, 2026

Transport: Train No. G661 (Beijing Xi (west) Railway Station - Xian Bei (north) Railway Station) Dep 16:45 - Arr 22:14 (First-class)
Accommodation: Self-arranged
Today's Activities: Summer Palace and high-speed train to Xi’an

Day 5 | Xi’an，April. 19, 2026

Accommodation: Self-arranged
Today's Activities: Terracotta Warriors, Ancient City Wall, and Great Tang All Day Mall

Day 6 | Xi’an to Chongqing，April. 20, 2026

Transport: MU2267 Dep 18:50 - Arr 20:30 (Economy class)
Accommodation: Self-arranged
Today's Activities: Xi’an Museum, Small Wild Goose Pagoda, Muslim Quarter, flight to Chongqing,

Day 7 | Chongqing，April. 21, 2026

Accommodation: Self-arranged
Today's Activities: Old hillside neighborhoods, Huguang Guild Hall, wartime shelter hotpot, Eling Park, Liziba, Kuixinglou, Jiefangbei, Hongyadong and WFC Observation Deck

Day 8 | Chongqing to Zhangjiajie，April. 22, 2026

Transport: Train No. G2449 (Chongqing Dong (east) Railway Station - Zhangjiajie Xi (west) Railway Station) Dep 17:00 - Arr 19:36(First-class)
Accommodation: Zhangjiajie Huatian Hotel-（Viewing Big Bed Room , No meal）
Today's Activities: Longmenhao Old Street, Xiahaoli, high-speed train to Zhangjiajie,

Day 9 | Zhangjiajie，April. 23, 2026

Accommodation: Zhangjiajie Huatian Hotel-（Viewing Big Bed Room , No meal）
Today's Activities: Tianzi Mountain, Yuanjiajie, Bailong Elevator, and Ten-mile Gallery with round-trip sightseeing train

Day 10 | Zhangjiajie，April. 24, 2026

Accommodation: Zhangjiajie Huatian Hotel-（Viewing Big Bed Room , No meal）
Today's Activities: Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon, Glass Bridge, and Yellow Dragon Cave with boat ride

Day 11 | Zhangjiajie，April. 25, 2026

Accommodation: Zhangjiajie Huatian Hotel-（Viewing Big Bed Room , No meal）
Today's Activities: Tianmen Mountain, Tianmen Cave, the Stairway to Heaven and 72 Strange Buildings

Day 12 | Zhangjiajie to Shanghai，April. 26, 2026

Transport: HO1222 Dep 11:20- Arr 13:25 (Economy class)
Accommodation: Self-arranged
Today's Activities: Flight to Shanghai and an evening view along the Huangpu River

Day 13 | Shanghai，April. 27, 2026

Accommodation: Self-arranged
Today's Activities: Jade Buddha Temple, the Former French Concession area, and Shanghai Tower, then continue to Suzhou

Day 14 | Suzhou，April. 28, 2026

Accommodation: Self-arranged
Today's Activities: Lingering Garden, Tiger Hill, Shantang Street, and the Master of the Nets Garden night performance

Day 15 | Departure from Shanghai，April. 29, 2026

Today's Activities: Private transfer from Suzhou to Shanghai, visit Yu Garden, then continue to the airport for your onward journey

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Signature Experiences

Explore Beijing’s Imperial Heart

Walk through the symbolic center of China in Beijing. From Tiananmen Square and the Forbidden City to the Temple of Heaven and the Summer Palace, these landmarks reveal the grandeur, order, and refinement of imperial China.

Walk the Mutianyu Great Wall

Visit one of the most scenic and best-preserved sections of the Great Wall. Surrounded by mountains and forests, Mutianyu offers an inspiring and unforgettable first Great Wall experience.

Enjoy an Imperial-Style Dinner in Beijing

Inspired by royal culinary traditions, this special dinner blends elegant presentation, refined flavors, and a sense of ceremony, creating a memorable evening in the capital.

Discover Xi’an’s Ancient Glory and Tang-Era Atmosphere

From the world-famous Terracotta Warriors to the Ancient City Wall and the vibrant Great Tang All Day Mall, Xi’an combines deep history with lively cultural energy.

Experience the Vertical Drama of Chongqing

Chongqing is known for its steep streets, layered roads, dramatic skyline, hotpot culture, and bold urban character. It is one of China’s most visually striking and unforgettable cities.

Take in Chongqing’s Night View from the WFC Observation Deck

After arriving in Chongqing, ascend the WFC Observation Deck for a panoramic view of the city lights, the meeting point of the Yangtze and Jialing Rivers, and the mountain city’s unique topography.

Step into the Avatar-like World of Zhangjiajie

Towering sandstone pillars, misty valleys, thrilling glass walkways, and the spectacular Tianmen Mountain make Zhangjiajie one of China’s most extraordinary natural destinations.

Discover Three Eras of Shanghai

In Shanghai, experience classical China in Yu Garden, the city’s cosmopolitan past in the Former French Concession area, and futuristic modern China from the top of Shanghai Tower.

End Gracefully in Suzhou

Suzhou brings your journey to a softer, more elegant close with classical gardens, old canal streets, poetic evening performances, and the refined charm of Jiangnan culture.

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Detailed 15-Day Itinerary

Day 1 | Arrival in Beijing

Welcome to Beijing, China’s historic capital.

Upon arrival, your private guide will meet you at the airport and escort you to your hotel by private car. No sightseeing is arranged today, allowing you time to rest and recover from your journey before the adventure begins.

Recommended timing: Flexible according to your arrival schedule
Meals: None

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Day 2 | Beijing | Tiananmen Square, the Forbidden City, and Hutong Alleys

Begin your exploration in the symbolic heart of China’s capital.

Tiananmen Square (30 minutes)

Start at one of the largest public squares in the world. Surrounded by monumental buildings, Tiananmen Square offers an essential introduction to Beijing’s political and historical importance.

The Forbidden City (3 hours)

Continue to the Forbidden City, the largest and best-preserved imperial palace complex in China. Behind its red walls and golden roofs lies the story of emperors, court rituals, and dynastic power. Its grand halls, courtyards, and residential quarters bring imperial China vividly to life.

Hutong Alleys (1.5 hours)

In the afternoon, step into Beijing’s traditional hutongs with a traditional rickshaw ride for a different view of the city. These historic lanes reveal a quieter and more intimate side of Beijing, where courtyard homes, neighborhood life, and old-city character remain deeply rooted.

Meals: None

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Day 3 | Beijing | Temple of Heaven, the Mutianyu Great Wall, and an Imperial-Style Dinner

Temple of Heaven (1.5 hours)

This morning, visit the Temple of Heaven, one of the greatest masterpieces of ancient Chinese ritual architecture. It was where emperors prayed for good harvests and harmony under heaven. The surrounding park also offers a lively glimpse of local life, with residents practicing tai chi, singing, and exercising.

Mutianyu Great Wall (2.5-3 hours)

Then head to the Mutianyu section of the Great Wall, one of its most beautiful and best-preserved stretches. Surrounded by forested mountains, this remarkable section offers both magnificent scenery and a profound sense of history. Take a cable car up for a comfortable ascent, and admire the sweeping mountain views before stepping onto this iconic monument.

Imperial-Style Dinner (1.5 hours)

In the evening, enjoy a specially arranged imperial-style dinner. Elegant surroundings, refined dishes, and a ceremonial atmosphere create a memorable Beijing night.

Meals: Dinner

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Day 4 | Beijing | Summer Palace and High-Speed Train to Xi’an

Summer Palace (2 hours)

Spend the morning at the Summer Palace, China’s most celebrated imperial garden. Its peaceful lake, decorated pavilions, long corridor, and hillside setting reflect the elegance of Qing-dynasty royal leisure.

High-Speed Train to Xi’an (about 5.5-6 hours)

After sightseeing, transfer to the railway station and take a high-speed train to Xi’an. Upon arrival, your local guide will meet you and escort you onward.

Meals: None

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Day 5 | Xi’an | Terracotta Warriors, Ancient City Wall, and Great Tang All Day Mall

Terracotta Warriors (2.5-3 hours)

Begin with one of the world’s greatest archaeological discoveries. The life-sized warriors, horses, and chariots vividly reveal the ambition and military power of China’s first emperor.

Ancient City Wall (1.5 hours)

Return to the city and visit Xi’an’s Ancient City Wall, one of the best-preserved city walls in China. From the top, enjoy a unique view of both the historic old city and the modern city beyond.

Great Tang All Day Mall (1.5-2 hours)

In the evening, explore the lively Great Tang All Day Mall, where Tang-style architecture, illuminated streets, performances, and crowds create a vivid and festive atmosphere.

Meals: None

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Day 6 | Xi’an | Xi’an Museum, Small Wild Goose Pagoda, Muslim Quarter, Flight to Chongqing, 

Xi’an Museum (1-1.5 hours)

Continue your exploration of Xi’an with a visit to Xi’an Museum, where exhibitions and relics provide deeper insight into the city’s long and layered history.

Small Wild Goose Pagoda (45 minutes)

Located within the museum complex, the Small Wild Goose Pagoda is one of Xi’an’s most representative Buddhist monuments, reflecting the city’s historical role as an important center on the Silk Road.

Muslim Quarter (1-1.5 hours)

Then head to the Muslim Quarter, one of Xi’an’s liveliest districts. Its market lanes, local snacks, traditional shops, and bustling street atmosphere add a vivid everyday energy to the ancient capital.

Flight to Chongqing (about 1.5 hours)

Later, transfer to the airport for your flight to Chongqing.

Meals: None

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Day 7 | Chongqing | Old Hillside Streets, Huguang Guild Hall, Wartime Shelter Hotpot,  Dazzling Night Views，and WFC Observation Deck

Old Hillside Neighborhoods (1.5 hours)

Today is devoted to Chongqing’s bold and distinctive urban character. Walk through old lanes, steep stairways, traditional residential areas, and scenic river viewpoints to experience the city’s extraordinary vertical layout.

Huguang Guild Hall (1 hour)

Then visit Huguang Guild Hall, one of Chongqing’s most important historic landmarks. With its elegant traditional architecture and deep cultural significance, it offers a fascinating glimpse into the city’s commercial history and the stories of migration that helped shape Chongqing.

Wartime Shelter Hotpot (1.5 hours)

For lunch, enjoy an authentic Chongqing hotpot meal inside a real wartime air-raid shelter, one of the city’s most memorable and representative dining experiences.

Eling Park (45 minutes)

In the afternoon, visit Eling Park for broad views over Chongqing’s layered skyline, rivers, and bridges.

Liziba Light Rail Station (30 minutes)

Then stop at Liziba to witness one of Chongqing’s most iconic urban scenes: the light rail passing directly through a residential building.

Kuixinglou, Jiefangbei, and Hongyadong (2-2.5 hours)

In the evening, visit Kuixinglou, Jiefangbei, and Hongyadong. Their glowing lights, dramatic elevation changes, and stacked architecture make Chongqing one of China’s most visually impressive night-view cities.

WFC Observation Deck (1 hour)

In the evening, ascend the WFC Observation Deck and admire Chongqing’s glittering skyline from above. The confluence of the Yangtze and Jialing Rivers, the city lights, and the layered mountain-city landscape create a spectacular first impression.

Meals: Lunch

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Day 8 | Chongqing to Zhangjiajie | Longmenhao Old Street, Xiahaoli, High-Speed Train, 

Longmenhao Old Street (1 hour)

Walk through Longmenhao Old Street in the morning. Its restored historical buildings, mountain-city views, and riverside setting showcase the blending of Chongqing’s past and present.

Xiahaoli (45 minutes)

Continue to Xiahaoli, a district that combines traces of old Chongqing with a renewed contemporary atmosphere and a strong sense of local life.

High-Speed Train to Zhangjiajie (about 5-6 hours)

Later, transfer to the railway station and travel by high-speed train to Zhangjiajie.

Meals: None

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Day 9 | Zhangjiajie | Tianzi Mountain, Yuanjiajie, Bailong Elevator, and Ten-mile Gallery

Today your private guide and driver will meet you and take you to Wulingyuan Scenic Area, home to Zhangjiajie National Forest Park. You will explore two of its most iconic areas.

Tianzi Mountain (about 2-2.5 hours)

Take a cable car up Tianzi Mountain and admire the many sandstone peaks rising sharply above the forests. Walk along the scenic pathways and enjoy magnificent views from multiple angles.

Yuanjiajie (about 2-2.5 hours)

In the afternoon, take the park shuttle bus to Yuanjiajie, the area famous for inspiring the “Hallelujah Mountains” in the film Avatar. It is one of the park’s most celebrated and unforgettable landscapes.

Bailong Elevator (about 2 minutes, plus waiting and walking time)

For the descent, you may take the Bailong Elevator, the world’s tallest outdoor elevator built against a cliff face. Though the ride itself is short, it adds a dramatic and memorable element to the day.

Ten-mile Gallery (about 1-1.5 hours)

Later, visit Ten-mile Gallery, a beautiful valley known for its picturesque rock formations, lush scenery, and tranquil atmosphere. To make the experience more relaxing and enjoyable, take the sightseeing train round trip through this scenic area.

Meals: None

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Day 10 | Zhangjiajie | Grand Canyon, Glass Bridge, and Yellow Dragon Cave

Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon and Glass Bridge (about 2.5-3 hours)

Today visit Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon, a natural wonder of mountains, streams, cliffs, caves, and forest. The world-famous Glass Bridge spans the canyon high above the ground, offering one of the coolest and most thrilling experiences of the entire journey.

Yellow Dragon Cave (about 2-2.5 hours)

Later, continue to Yellow Dragon Cave, one of the most famous karst caves in China. Inside, a network of dramatic limestone chambers, underground streams, and illuminated rock formations creates a fascinating subterranean world. A boat ride through part of the cave adds a memorable and atmospheric touch to the visit.

Meals: None

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Day 11 | Zhangjiajie | Tianmen Mountain, Tianmen Cave, the Stairway to Heaven, and 72 Strange Buildings

Tianmen Mountain (about 4.5-5 hours)

Today promises excitement at Tianmen Mountain, home to the world’s longest high-mountain passenger cableway, dramatic cliffside walkways, and the legendary winding road of ninety-nine bends.

Known as the “Soul of Zhangjiajie,” Tianmen Mountain offers ancient trees, karst formations, and thrilling mountain scenery. The cable car ride from the city to the summit, lasting around 30 minutes, is itself one of the highlights.

Tianmen Cave (about 1 hour)

Then visit Tianmen Cave, literally “Heaven’s Gate,” a giant natural opening through the mountain and one of the area’s most iconic sights.

Stairway to Heaven (about 30 minutes)

To reach Tianmen Cave, climb the famous stairway leading upward through the mountain landscape. The ascent offers a close and dramatic encounter with Tianmen Mountain’s striking natural scale.

72 Strange Buildings (1 hour)

After arrival, visit the 72 Strange Buildings in the evening, a theatrical architectural complex famous for its dramatic style and dazzling illumination.

Meals: None

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Day 12 | Fly to Shanghai | Easy Arrival and the Huangpu River at Night

Fly to Shanghai today. After arrival and transfer, the pace is lighter, allowing you to relax a little after your mountain adventure in Zhangjiajie.

Huangpu River Area (1.5 hours)

In the evening, head to the Huangpu River waterfront to admire Shanghai’s iconic skyline. The historic buildings of the Bund and the futuristic towers of Pudong create one of China’s most famous urban views.

Meals: None

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Day 13 | Shanghai | The Story of Three Eras, then Continue to Suzhou

Jade Buddha Temple (1-1.5 hours)

Begin at Jade Buddha Temple, one of Shanghai’s most revered Buddhist temples. With its peaceful courtyards, active monastic atmosphere, and celebrated jade Buddha statues, it offers a meaningful introduction to the city’s spiritual and traditional side.

Former French Concession Area (1.5 hours)

Then enjoy a guided walk through the Former French Concession area. Its tree-lined streets and historic residences reflect old Shanghai’s cosmopolitan charm and layered past.

Shanghai Tower (1.5 hours)

Finally, ascend Shanghai Tower for a sweeping view of the modern metropolis. From above, it becomes clear how old Shanghai, colonial-era Shanghai, and the contemporary global city all coexist.

Continue to Suzhou (private transfer or high-speed train, about 0.5-1.5 hours)

Meals: None

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Day 14 | Suzhou | Classical Gardens, Canal Street, and an Evening Garden Performance

Lingering Garden (1.5 hours)

Start at the Lingering Garden, one of China’s most celebrated classical gardens. Its elegant halls, rockeries, seasonal views, and masterful design embody the essence of Suzhou garden art.

Tiger Hill (1-1.5 hours)

Then visit Tiger Hill, a historic scenic area famous for its legends, leaning pagoda, and natural beauty.

Shantang Street (1-1.5 hours)

Later, stroll along Shantang Street, an old canal-side street lined with traditional houses, stone bridges, and local shops.

Master of the Nets Garden Night Performance (1 hour)

In the evening, enjoy the night performance in the Master of the Nets Garden, where music, performance, and classical garden settings come together in a poetic and memorable finale.

Meals: None

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Day 15 | Departure from Shanghai

According to your departure arrangements, enjoy a private transfer from Suzhou to Shanghai in the morning.

Yu Garden (1.5-2 hours)

Before heading to the airport, visit Yu Garden, one of Shanghai’s most celebrated classical gardens. Known for its elegant pavilions, rockeries, ponds, and refined Ming-style design, it offers a graceful final cultural experience before your departure. Please note that Yu Garden is typically closed on Mondays, and the visit will be arranged subject to its official opening schedule.

After the visit, continue to the airport for your onward flight.

Your 15-day journey through China comes to an end here, leaving you with lasting memories of imperial heritage, archaeological wonders, mountain-city nightscapes, fantasy-like peaks, elegant gardens, and the many faces of China.

Recommended timing: Early morning departure from Suzhou, with airport transfer according to your flight schedule

Meals: None

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Price Includes

• Private luxury SUV transportation throughout

• Professional private local guides in each destination

• All entrance fees listed in the itinerary

• Domestic economy-class flights and first-class high-speed train tickets as specified in the itinerary

• Meals specified in the itinerary

• Special experiences mentioned in the itinerary

• 24/7 travel support during your trip

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Customization Notes

This is a suggested itinerary and can be adjusted according to your interests, family needs, dietary requirements, and travel style.

Whether you would prefer a slower pace, more cultural experiences, additional family-friendly arrangements, or upgraded services, the journey can be further refined to suit you personally.

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Price and Booking Information

Price

Total for 2 adults: US$5096
Per adult based on 2 travelers: US$2,548

Quote Validity

This quotation is valid for 7 days from the date of issue.

Exchange Rate Note

This quotation is based on the exchange rate applicable at the time it was prepared. If payment is made in a foreign currency, the actual exchange rate on the payment date will apply. As exchange rates may fluctuate, early confirmation is recommended to help secure the current quotation.

Payment Terms

A 10% deposit is required to confirm the trip.
A further 30% is due 7 days prior to departure.
The remaining 60% is to be settled in full on your first day in China, after we have met you upon arrival.

For this booking page, only the 10% deposit is required at this stage.
Balance amount: US$4586.4 (with cash payed US$146.6)

Payment Methods

• Visa or MasterCard via secure online PayPal payment

• Bank transfer

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