7-Day Private China Highlights Tour: Beijing, Xi’an, Guilin and Shanghai

China in a Week: An In-Depth Look at the 7-Day Private Highlights Tour

Traveling through Beijing, Xi’an, Guilin, and Shanghai in just seven days might sound ambitious, but with this private, well-structured tour, it’s entirely doable—and incredibly rewarding. For around $2,226 per person, you get a whirlwind experience that combines iconic landmarks, cultural insights, and scenic beauty, all curated with your comfort and authentic experiences in mind. Our guides—like Ivy in Beijing—bring stories alive with their passion and knowledge, making history feel personal and engaging.

What we love most about this tour? First, the seamless transportation. Traveling by private air-conditioned vehicle and plane means no stress, just focus on soaking in the sights. Second, the carefully curated stops, from the Terracotta Army to the Li River cruise, are well-paced, giving you enough time to enjoy each without feeling rushed.

A possible consideration? The tight schedule means you should be prepared for early mornings and full days. If you’re looking for leisurely exploration or solo time, this might feel a bit fast-paced. Still, for those eager to see as much as possible of China’s highlights on a short trip, this tour hits the sweet spot.

This experience suits travelers who want a comprehensive, guided introduction to China’s famous sites while enjoying the comfort of private transport and expert guides. It’s especially excellent for history buffs, first-time visitors, and those seeking an immersive but manageable itinerary.

Key Points

• Comprehensive coverage: Includes Beijing, Xi’an, Guilin, and Shanghai—covering both cultural landmarks and scenic landscapes.
• All-in-one package: Plane tickets, entrance fees, cruise, guides, and private transport—offering great value and convenience.
• Authentic experiences: Local guides share stories and histories, creating a more personal connection to the sites.
• Flexible options: Can end in Shanghai or return to Beijing, with options for 4-star accommodation and daily breakfast.
• Efficient sightseeing: Well-organized itinerary ensures you see top sights without unnecessary delays.
• Cultural immersion: Enjoy local lunches, explore hutongs, and cruise the Li River for memorable moments.

Exploring the Highlights of the 7-Day China Tour

Day 1: Beijing’s Imperial and Cultural Heart

Your adventure kicks off with the Temple of Heaven, where Ming and Qing emperors worshipped the heavens. The guide, like Ivy, will explain the significance of the Hall of Prayer for Good Harvest and other structures, making ancient rituals feel real. We loved the chance to stroll through the park, watching locals do their morning exercises—an everyday glimpse of life in Beijing.

Next, a walk through Tiananmen Square reveals the political and historical core of China. The Forbidden City is next—an enormous complex of courtyards, halls, and gardens that served as the emperor’s home for over 500 years. The guides do a fantastic job of telling stories behind the buildings, like the Hall of Great Harmony, where imperial decisions were made.

Afterward, the lively Shichahai Scenic Resort offers a relaxed afternoon exploring old streets like Nanluoguxiang. This is where you’ll see Beijing’s hutongs—narrow alleyways full of local charm and modern shops. We appreciated the mix of history and vibrant street life, which really brings the city’s soul into focus.

Day 2: The Marvel of the Great Wall and Summer Palace

A highlight is the Mutianyu Section of the Great Wall. The cable car ride up offers stunning views, and hiking along the wall reveals ancient stones that have weathered centuries. We enjoyed the fact that you can decide how long to stay—whether to scramble up the towers or simply enjoy the panorama.

Lunch is in a nearby village, where you can try hearty dishes from Northeast China, giving a taste of local flavors. On the way back, passing the Olympic Park with its iconic stadiums is a modern contrast to the historic sites.

The Summer Palace is next—an exquisite royal garden with lakes, pavilions, and long corridors. The Longest Corridor in the World and the Marble Boat offer picturesque views and stories about Qing Dynasty ambitions. This makes for a peaceful, scenic retreat from Beijing’s hustle.

Day 3-4: Xi’an and the Terracotta Warriors

A short flight transports you to Xi’an, home of the world-famous Terracotta Warriors. This archaeological marvel is the first stop—an astonishing collection of life-sized statues buried to guard the emperor in the afterlife. Your guide provides context, making the pits come alive with stories of craftsmanship and conspiracy.

Next, explore Xi’an City Wall—a well-preserved fortress that you can bike around for sweeping city views. The Big Wild Goose Pagoda is a spiritual highlight, as it once held sacred sutras brought from India.

The Muslim Quarter adds flavor with its lively markets and street snacks. This area is a melting pot of cultures and a great place to sample local delicacies—though at your own cost, so bring your appetite.

Day 5-6: Guilin’s Scenic Charm

Famous for its stunning karst formations, Guilin is the highlight of the scenic portion. The Li River cruise from Zhujiang Pier to Yangshuo is unforgettable. The boat glides past towering peaks, misty hills, and traditional villages—an image many Chinese landscape paintings depict. Listening to your guide’s stories about the legends behind these formations adds a magical touch.

In Yangshuo, West Street offers an authentic, bustling atmosphere with shops, cafes, and street performers. Then, the Ten-Mile Gallery and Moon Hill showcase countryside scenery straight out of a painting, with rolling hills, bamboo groves, and quiet villages.

The Butterfly Spring Park and ancient trees like the Big Banyan introduce you to Guilin’s natural beauty and romantic stories, such as the love legend of Liusanjie.

Day 6: Guilin’s Natural Landmarks

Back in Guilin, your guide takes you to Elephant Trunk Hill, the city’s symbol—shaped like an elephant drinking from the river. Climbing to the top offers panoramic views of the city and the Li River.

Next, the Fubo Hill and Reed Flute Cave showcase Guilin’s natural artistry—breathtaking stalactites and stone carvings dating back centuries. The cave’s wall inscriptions tie the natural beauty to China’s poetic history, adding depth to your experience.

Day 7: Shanghai’s Modern Marvels

Your final day is in Shanghai, a city where ultramodern skyscrapers meet colonial architecture. The Shanghai Museum impresses with its collection of ancient art—bronzes, ceramics, and calligraphy—that tell the story of China’s cultural depth.

The Jade Buddha Temple offers a peaceful respite with its serene statues and traditional atmosphere. Then, a walk through Yuyuan Garden reveals classic Ming and Qing architecture, vibrant with pavilions, rockeries, and lush greenery.

The Bund along the Huangpu River is perfect for skyline photos, showing iconic buildings like the Oriental Pearl Tower and Shanghai Tower. Nearby, the French Concession offers a charming neighborhood of cafes, boutiques, and tree-lined streets. The energetic Xintiandi is a lively spot for evening strolls, dining, or just soaking up the city’s vibrant vibe.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

The price includes airfare, entrance fees, cruise tickets, local guides, and private transport, making it a hassle-free experience. The tours are designed for efficiency, but that doesn’t mean missing out on depth—guides like Ivy enrich each stop with stories, making history tangible. The option of staying in 4-star hotels with daily breakfast adds comfort after long days of sightseeing.

Because everything is arranged for you—timed entry, local guides, transportation—it’s ideal for travelers who want a rundown without the stress of planning logistics. The private aspect also means flexibility; guides are happy to customize if you wish to spend more time at a particular site.

Authenticity and Comfort

Many reviewers appreciate the knowledgeable guides who make the sites come alive. The tour’s focus on local experiences, from street markets to scenic boat rides, ensures you get a genuine sense of each place.

Considerations

The schedule is quite packed—early mornings, full days, and some travel between cities. If you prefer slow, leisurely exploration, this might feel a bit rushed. It’s best suited for energetic travelers eager to see many highlights in a short time.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This is the perfect trip for history enthusiasts, culture lovers, and anyone wanting a broad overview of China’s most famous sights. First-timers will find it particularly useful, as guides explain the significance of each site in accessible ways. If you’re after scenic experiences like boat cruises and mountain views, this tour doesn’t disappoint.

If you prefer more time to explore each place at your own pace or are traveling with young children, this might feel a little rushed. But for those who want to make the most of a week in China, this tour offers a balanced mix of culture, scenery, and comfort.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for solo travelers?
Yes, it is a private tour, so solo travelers can enjoy the experience without sharing with strangers.

Are meals included?
Yes, the tour includes lunch and breakfast most days, allowing you to sample local cuisine without extra planning.

Can I end the tour in Shanghai instead of Beijing?
Absolutely. The tour offers the option to conclude your journey in Shanghai or return to Beijing, depending on your plans.

What is the transportation like?
All transport is by private air-conditioned vehicle and plane, with cruise tickets included for the Guilin scenery.

Is there free time during the tour?
Some free time is built into afternoons, like exploring hutongs or markets, but the schedule is quite full to maximize your experience.

Are entrance fees included?
Yes, all major attractions like the Forbidden City, Terracotta Warriors, and Guilin caves include admission fees.

What is the accommodation like?
You can choose to stay in 4-star hotels with daily breakfast, which provides comfort after busy days.

How early should I book?
This tour is typically booked about 13 days in advance, so planning ahead ensures availability.

Are guides fluent in English?
Yes, the guides are English-speaking, capable of sharing detailed histories and stories.

What if I want to customize the itinerary?
Since it’s a private tour, guides are flexible and can adjust stops based on your interests, within the framework of the schedule.

To sum it up, this 7-day private China highlights tour packs an incredible variety of sights into a manageable schedule, combining convenience, authentic experiences, and expert guidance. It’s especially suited for travelers who want to see the best of China’s history, culture, and landscapes without the hassle. While it’s a fast-paced trip, many reviewers find the balance of guided insight and scenic beauty well worth it—making it a solid choice for first-time visitors or those eager to make the most of a short visit.