Beijing to Yangtze River & Shanghai - 13 days

Beijing to Yangtze River & Shanghai - 13 days

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13 Days From

$5055

$3791

Beijing to Yangtze River & Shanghai - 13 days

13 Days Starting in Beijing, China and ending in Shanghai, China

Visiting: Beijing, Xi'an, Chengdu, Fengdu, Three Gorges, Shanghai

Tour operator:

On The Go Tours

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

2 - 28

Physical rating:

Medium

Age range:

16-

Tour operated in:

English

Trip Styles:

Luxury, River Cruise

Activities:

Walking

From: $5055 $3791 Operator discount: -$1264 -25%

NB: Prices correct on 02-Nov-2024 but subject to change.

This tour is no longer available, please see similar tours below or send an enquiry

Tour Overview

Embark on a captivating 13-day journey from Beijing to Shanghai, exploring China's rich history and breathtaking landscapes. Begin in Beijing with visits to iconic sites like Tiananmen Square, the Forbidden City, and the Great Wall at Mutianyu. Travel to Xi'an to marvel at the Terracotta Warriors and the ancient City Walls. In Chengdu, experience the charm of the Dujiangyan Panda Base and the vibrant People's Park. Cruise the Yangtze River in 5-star luxury, taking in the Three Gorges and the monumental Three Gorges Dam. Conclude your adventure in Shanghai, exploring Yu Garden, the Jade Buddha Temple, and the bustling Nanjing Road, with a free day to discover the city at your leisure. Enjoy guided sightseeing, high-speed train journeys, and luxurious accommodations throughout this unforgettable tour.

Highlights

  • Beijing - Visit Tiananmen Square, the Forbidden City, Temple of Heaven, and stroll through the atmospheric Hutongs

  • Great Wall - Walk along a section of China's most famous monument Mutianyu, not far from Beijing

  • Xi’an - See the infamous army of Terracotta Warriors, the ancient City Walls and Big Wild Goose Pagoda

  • Chengdu - Visit Dujiangyan Panda Base, relax in People’s Park, and explore Wide and Narrow Alleys

  • Yangtze River - Cruise the Yangtze in 5-star luxury, taking in the Three Gorges, Fengdu Ghost City, Three Gorges Dam and much more

  • Shanghai - Explore Yu Garden, Jade Buddha Temple, Nanjing Road, The Bund and Former French Concession, plus enjoy a free day to explore at leisure

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1: Beijing

Location: Beijing

Accommodation Name: hotel

Upon arrival at the award-winning Beijing Capital International Airport, you will be greeted by our local guide and taken to the hotel. The rest of the day is at leisure.













Day 2: Beijing

Location: Beijing

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

After a hearty breakfast at our hotel, we’ll dive into the rich history of Beijing with a visit to Tiananmen Square. This iconic site, pivotal in the founding of the People’s Republic of China, is one of the world’s most awe-inspiring public spaces, commanding a central place in Beijing’s heart and history.





Our adventure continues as we step into the Forbidden City, the world’s largest ancient palatial complex and China’s best preserved imperial palace. Its vast halls and gardens offer a breathtaking glimpse into China's imperial past. Should tickets be unavailable during peak season, we’ll instead explore the enchanting Lama Temple and the revered Confucius Temple.





Lunch will be included at a local Chinese restaurant before we head to the Temple of Heaven. This architectural masterpiece was visited by the Emperors of the Ming and Qing dynasties for centuries. It's where they prayed for a good harvest and is a stunning testament to imperial architecture.





To finish off our first day, we’ll partake in a traditional tea ceremony at a local tea store, before returning to our hotel for a well-deserved rest.













Day 3: Beijing

Location: Beijing

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Today we’ll embark on an unforgettable journey to the Mutianyu section of the Great Wall. This extraordinary marvel of Chinese engineering stretches majestically across the rugged landscape. As we walk along a section of the ancient wall, we can take in the dramatic surrounding scenery.





After lunch at a local Chinese restaurant, we then set off for the Summer Palace, a former imperial retreat. As we stroll through its sprawling gardens and around Kunming Lake, we’ll marvel at the intricately decorated buildings and serene courtyards that whisper tales of the past.





After our exploration of this majestic historical gem, we’ll return to our hotel.

Day 4: Beijing

Location: Beijing

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Beijing - Xi'an. After breakfast at our hotel, we’ll embark on an enchanting walking tour through Beijing’s labyrinthine alleyways, known as ‘Hutongs.’ As we meander through these charming lanes, we’ll discover the vibrant heart of traditional Beijing, where old-world charm and local life intertwine.





After lunch at a local restaurant, we make our way to Beijing West Railway Station. We’ll then board a high-speed train bound for Xi’an, enjoying the comfort of 2nd class seats as we glide through the countryside. Upon arriving in Xi’an, our friendly local guide will warmly greet us at the railway station. We will then make our way to the hotel in Xi'án.

Day 5: Xi'an

Location: Xi'an

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Today we’ll visit the Terracotta Warrior Museum. Often celebrated as ‘the eighth wonder of the world,’ the Terracotta Warriors offer a breathtaking glimpse into ancient China. This remarkable collection of terracotta sculptures depicts the armies of Qin Shi Huang, the first Emperor of China. These life-sized figures were meticulously modeled after actual soldiers of the Qin Army, displaying incredible attention to detail. The army consists of an astounding 8,000 life-size soldiers, 100 chariots, and 600 horses, and each figure is unique. The purpose of this vast army was to guard the remains of Emperor Qin Shihuang, entombed within a massive mausoleum complex.





Our adventure continues with a fascinating visit to a terracotta figure-making factory, where we’ll witness artisans at work and learn about the intricate craft behind these legendary statues. Following this, we’ll enjoy lunch at a local Chinese restaurant.





In the afternoon, we’ll delve into history with a visit to the Big Wild Goose Pagoda. This ancient marvel is one of China’s oldest and best-preserved structures.





We’ll also explore a jade factory, discovering the artistry behind this precious stone. Back at the hotel, the rest of today is at leisure.

Day 6: Xi'an

Location: Chengdu

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

Xi'an - Chengdu. After a hearty breakfast at our hotel, we’ll set off for the railway station to board the high-speed train to Chengdu, settling into the comfort of our 2nd class seats.





Upon reaching Chengdu, our warm and knowledgeable local guide will be there to greet us at the railway station, ready to introduce us to the city’s unique charm. There's time to grab some lunch before we visit the People’s Park, where we’ll enjoy a stroll and watch the locals going about their day.





Our exploration continues as we wander through the Wide and Narrow Alleys, where traditional architecture and vibrant street life offer a captivating glimpse into Chengdu’s past. We’ll then transfer to our hotel in the heart of the city.

Day 7: Chengdu

Location: Chengdu

Accommodation Name: Overnight: 5* Yangtze River Cruiser

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Chengdu - Dujiangyan - Chongqing - Yichang. We embark on a scenic one-hour drive to Dujiangyan, where we’ll visit the renowned Dujiangyan Giant Panda Base. Here, we’ll have the chance to observe these adorable giants in their natural habitat, a truly memorable experience that brings us face-to-face with one of China’s most beloved animals.





Following our panda encounter, we’ll indulge in a delicious lunch at a local Chinese restaurant, before making our way to Chengdu Railway Station. We’ll board the high-speed train to Chongqing.





You will be met in Chongqing and taken to the pier, where we’ll board our elegant river vessel and prepare for a serene cruise downstream to Yichang. As we set sail, we’ll relax and enjoy the stunning river views, marking the beginning of a captivating journey along one of China’s most famous waterways.

Day 8: Chongqing

Location: Fengdu

Accommodation Name: Overnight: 5* Yangtze River Cruiser

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Yichang - Fengdu. We will continue our captivating journey along the mighty Yangtze River, with a stop at either the enigmatic Fengdu Ghost City or the scenic Fengdu Mount Shuanggui Scenic Region.





Our day will begin with a refreshing start, enjoying coffee, tea, and pastries as we take in the serene river views. We’ll then energize ourselves with a Tai Chi exercise session, embracing the peaceful morning atmosphere. Following this, we’ll savour a sumptuous buffet breakfast, setting us up for an exciting day ahead.





Fengdu Ghost City is a large complex of shrines, temples and monasteries dedicated to the afterlife located on the Ming mountain. It is shrouded in local legends and dramatic beauty (please note that this visit is not included, and is bookable and payable locally).





Alternatively, we’ll have the chance to explore the stunning Fengdu Mount Shuanggui Scenic Region, a location renowned for its natural splendour and cultural significance. Please note that all Yangtze Cruise itineraries are subject to change.





As the evening approaches, we’ll gather on board the cruise vessel for an engaging lecture about the Yangtze River, notable locations and its importance to China.







Day 9: Sandouping

Location: Three Gorges

Accommodation Name: Overnight: 5* Yangtze River Cruiser

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Fengdu - Three Gorges - Three Gorges Dam. Enjoy another relaxing breakfast and optional Tai Chi before we reach the dramatic landscapes of Qutang Gorge, the first of the illustrious Three Gorges. This breathtaking stretch of the Yangtze River, known for its steep cliffs and awe-inspiring scenery, sets the stage for an unforgettable day.





Our voyage will then take us to Wu Gorge, where we’ll marvel at its strikingly steep cultivated fields that appear to cling impossibly to the mountainsides. The sheer grandeur and rugged beauty of this region offer a spectacular visual feast.





We’ll have the option to embark on an exciting shore excursion to White Emperor City, an area steeped in history and legend (please note this visit is exclusive and payable locally). Known as Baidicheng, this ancient fortress and temple complex is located precariously on a hilltop. Alternatively, we can explore the enchanting Shennong/Shennv Stream, where we can stretch our legs on land and immerse ourselves in the natural beauty of this waterway.





Back on board, we will navigate towards the western part of Xiling Gorge, a historically significant corridor for river transport. We’ll then traverse the ship locks, leading us to the awe-inspiring Three Gorges Dam, China’s largest and most ambitious engineering feat since the Great Wall.

Day 10: Shanghai

Location: Shanghai

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Three Gorges Dam - Shanghai. We’ll start our day with breakfast on board, setting us up for an exciting shore excursion to the colossal Three Gorges Dam.





Upon disembarking at Maoping, we’ll embark on a fascinating visit to the Three Gorges Dam, marvelling at this monumental feat of modern engineering. As we explore, we’ll gain insight into its impressive scale and significance. For lunch, we’ll either dine at a local restaurant or enjoy a packed lunch prepared specially for us.





Following our dam visit, we’ll board a high-speed train bound for Shanghai, where we’ll travel in 2nd class seats for approximately 8 hours. On arrival, we will transfer to our hotel in the city centre for check-in.

Day 11: Shanghai

Location: Shanghai

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Today begins with a visit to the stunning Yu Garden, nestled in the heart of the old city centre. This botanical masterpiece, crafted 400 years ago during the Ming Dynasty, is a peaceful oasis amidst the bustle of the city.





After lunch, we head to the Jade Buddha Temple, established in 1882, where we’ll admire the awe-inspiring white jade Burmese Buddha statues. Then we take a stroll down Nanjing Road, Shanghai’s famed shopping boulevard. Here, the energetic pulse of the city is palpable, with dazzling lights and a dynamic atmosphere.





We’ll then make our way to The Bund, where we’ll be mesmerized by the iconic skyline. The Pudong area’s sleek, modernist architecture provides a striking contrast to the historic colonial buildings that line the opposite bank of the river.





Our adventure continues with a visit to the charming Former French Concession, where we’ll explore its tree-lined streets and elegant buildings. We’ll also discover the artistry behind silk production with a visit to a local silk factory, learning about this traditional craft and its role in Shanghai’s rich history. As the day draws to a close, we’ll return to our hotel.

Day 12: Shanghai

Location: Shanghai

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

The final day of our tour is completely free for you to do whatever you like. You could visit the Shanghai Museum, climb the Oriental Pearl TV Tower for panoramic views over the city, or even head to Disneyland! The choice is yours.























Day 13: Shanghai

Location: Shanghai

Meals Included: Breakfast

After breakfast at the hotel our tour comes to an end. There's an included transfer to the airport.

What's Included

  • Meals

    12 breakfasts, 9 lunches, and 2 dinners (included lunches and dinners at a local restaurant include one glass of soft drink).

  • Accommodation

    9 nights in 4-5 star hotels and 3 nights on board a 5-star cruise ship on the Yangtze River.

  • Transfers and Transportation

    All relevant transfers and transportation in private A/C vehicles.

  • Airport Transfers

    Airport arrival transfer on day 1 and airport departure transfer on day 13.

  • Guided Sightseeing

    Guided sightseeing of Beijing, Xi'an, Chengdu, Chongqing, and Shanghai.

  • Highspeed Trains

    4 highspeed trains from Beijing to Xi'an, Xi'an to Chengdu, Chengdu to Chongqing, and Yichang to Shanghai.

  • Specialist Guides

    English speaking specialist guides at local sights.

  • Entrance Fees

    Entrance fees as per itinerary.

  • Tour Partner

    This tour is operated in conjunction with our trusted partner and you will join travelers from different operators, not solely On The Go.

What's Not Included

  • International Flights and Visa

    International flights and visa are not included.

  • Tips

    Tip for your tour guide - We recommend you allow 6 USD per person per day for the guide, and 3 USD per person per day for the driver.

    Tipping your guide and driver is an entirely personal gesture.

Mode of Transport

Travel in style with private A/C vehicles, high-speed trains between cities, and a 5-star cruise ship on the Yangtze River. Airport transfers on arrival and departure days are included.

Accommodation

Enjoy 9 nights in 4-5 star hotels and 3 nights on a luxurious 5-star cruise ship along the Yangtze River, ensuring comfort and elegance throughout your journey.

Age Policy

16+  if accompanied by an adult

Check out our Q&As

  • What type of accommodation is provided during the tour?

    The tour includes 9 nights in 4-5 star hotels and 3 nights on board a 5-star cruise ship on the Yangtze River.

  • Are airport transfers included in the tour?

    Yes, the tour includes an airport arrival transfer on day 1 and an airport departure transfer on day 13.

  • What meals are included in the tour?

    The tour includes 12 breakfasts, 9 lunches, and 2 dinners. Included lunches and dinners at local restaurants come with one glass of soft drink.

  • What kind of transportation is used during the tour?

    All relevant transfers and transportation are provided in private air-conditioned vehicles. Additionally, the tour includes 4 high-speed train journeys between Beijing, Xi'an, Chengdu, Chongqing, and Yichang to Shanghai.

  • Will there be guided sightseeing during the tour?

    Yes, the tour includes guided sightseeing in Beijing, Xi'an, Chengdu, Chongqing, and Shanghai with English-speaking specialist guides at local sights.

  • Are entrance fees included in the tour price?

    Yes, entrance fees as per the itinerary are included in the tour price.

  • Is tipping required during the tour?

    Tipping is not mandatory but recommended. It is suggested to allow 6 USD per person per day for the guide and 3 USD per person per day for the driver. Tipping is an entirely personal gesture.

  • What activities are planned for the free day in Shanghai?

    On the free day in Shanghai, you can visit the Shanghai Museum, climb the Oriental Pearl TV Tower for panoramic views over the city, or even head to Disneyland. The choice is yours.

  • What is the age policy for this tour?

    The age policy for this tour is 16 and above if accompanied by an adult.

  • Will I have the opportunity to see pandas during the tour?

    Yes, you will visit the Dujiangyan Panda Base in Chengdu, where you can observe giant pandas in their natural habitat.

  • What can I expect during the Yangtze River cruise?

    During the Yangtze River cruise, you will enjoy 5-star luxury accommodations, Tai Chi sessions, lectures about the Yangtze River, and shore excursions to places like Fengdu Ghost City or Fengdu Mount Shuanggui Scenic Region, and the Three Gorges Dam.

  • What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?

    Ensuring our footprint is light and that the benefits of travelling reach the local communities you visit is paramount to us. We’re proud to say that when travelling with us, the large majority of your holiday funds remain within the countries you visit, supporting local economies at a grass roots level.

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    Since 1998

  • Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?

    With English-speaking tours, it's not a huge surprise that most on our travellers are from English-speaking countries or have English as their second language. Our group tours cater for everyone from 18 years old to 70+

  • Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

    Yes

Reviews of this operator

Nicola Hodgkinson (Google Reviewer)  

Recently returned from Greece, a...

07-May-2024

Recently returned from Greece, a 5 day tour with OTG. Unfortunately, I had a negative experience on day 2 where I needed local support to get me out of a tricky situation. Thank you to Alexandra Z from Hetco Tours in Athens for helping me continue on with the trip, to the Hotel Zafolia staffing team and to Danielle and team here in the UK for supporting me with the aftermath. Your kindness will not be forgotten and I will pay it forward. I've now booked 3 trips with yourselves and will continue to go back. Thank you all. Honestly, I am SO grateful. Blessings to you all. Nicola

Calvin  

Wonderful experience

05-Jan-2023

Jamal is our tour guide. Right from the start, he created a group chat in whatsapp and if any issues to make sure we contact him. He was on the ball with every issue thrown at him. Luggage being left behind, stragglers wondered off in a different path, hotel room etc. He explains the various site along our route to give us a better understanding of the local cultures. We had a great time, thanks to Jamal.

Trustpilot
Norma Sullivan  

Land of the Northern Lights 5 day tour of Iceland

10-Sep-2021

The Land of Northern Lights tour was a triumph! My tour of Southern Iceland was absolutely wonderful. The venues chosen, the timing allotted at each venue and the variety of things to experience was nearly perfect. Our guide, "Thor", was smart, amusing, full of history and anecdotal stories as well as being incredibly hospitable and helpful. This small group experience was my first, but not my last thanks to On the Go.

Trawls (Google Reviewer)  

On The Go Tours Sri...

05-Feb-2024

On The Go Tours Sri Lanka was an incredible experience that was made even better by our tour guide Akthar. He was incredibly knowledgeable about his country and he loved sharing it with us. The tour covers a wide range of activities so you can truly experience what Sri Lanka is all about. The beautiful 4-5 star hotels at the end of every day was an absolute bonus. Thanks for a great trip OTGT I’m sure this won’t be my last

Xtreme Floor Care (Google Reviewer)  

Traveled through Egypt with On...

30-Nov-2023

Traveled through Egypt with On the Go Tours, professional service, very informative and helpful tour guides. The choice of hotels was excellent... Definitely recommend this company

Gavin Harrigan  

King Tutankhamun 10 day tour of Egypt

16-Sep-2021

I have just returned from my tour with On The Go and it was an amazing trip! From arriving at the airport and meeting the OTG representative, everything was well organised and hassle free.  Our tour guide was Amir. He is awesome!! From the beginning he was so friendly and enthusiastic about showing us around Egypt, giving us loads of information at each place and time to explore ourselves. Learnt so much from him about this fascinating place, and he was always happy to answer more questions.   The trip itself was amazing. There's lots of travelling on this trip, but it's really not too bad, and the sights you see when you get to where you are going are worth it. I'm not a big fan of boats, but the Felluca ride across the Nile was pretty fun too.  On the first day I also did the optional tour of Cairo with Ahmed Helal - another excellent guide from OTG. It's worth doing this add on as you don't spend much time in Cairo, and you go to three very different places.  I'm so glad that I decided to do this trip. It was just ace.  If you're thinking about it too, you should probably just book it. And hopefully you get Amir as your guide.

Paul Kelly (Google Reviewer)  

TOTALLY MOROCCO We booked a 9...

26-Feb-2023

TOTALLY MOROCCO We booked a 9 day tour of Morocco visiting many main cities and places of interest. The coach was very comfortable and we felt safe with the driver Suliman. The guide was Hicham Touraouine and he was fantastic. He spoke perfect English as well as French, Arabic and Berber. He was so kind and considerate and made a good tour great. We particularly enjoyed ‘glamming in the Sahara Desert. So much to see and do and great food and company. We would definitely use On The Go Tours again, especially if Hicham was the guide. Paul & Penny

Joyce Heitler (Google Reviewer)  

I would give this tour...

09-May-2024

I would give this tour group no stars if possible. The tour was not guaranteed but they did not inform me when I booked and they did not have enough people. Way after I booked they said I needed a doctors letter because I was over 70. Also way after booking I was informed I needed travel insurance. They knew my age when I booked. They would not refund my tour even though it was 4 months away.

Sarah Paterson (Google Reviewer)  

Terrible tour of India. For...

27-Dec-2023

Terrible tour of India. For some reason On the Go hadn't realised that my room mate had booked her own room for the first night of tour. So the hotel in Delhi had tried to put me in her room after midnight, by wheeling in an extra bed. She went Crazy!! I then had to sit in hotel reception for hours. While the tour guide said he couldn't find me a room. Throughout the tour the guide consistently ask me and my room mate for money for my room, causing more friction between us. Don't book with this company had the worst experience ever. Go with Intrepid or G Adventure

brandy hoffman (Google Reviewer)  

I had used them once...

09-Aug-2023

I had used them once before and loved them. I decided to try them again for a Baltic tour not knowing that they put me on another Tour group- Baltic vision. Loved that tour but was not impressed they marked up the cost for me over 100%. I understand taking some for yourself because of paperwork, but over double the cost everyone else paid on the tour. Just double check before you book with them that you’re not over paying.

1 Select your preferred date

Thursday - Tuesday

Apr 03, 2025 - Apr 15, 2025
$5085 $3814

Operator discount: -$1271

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Apr 17, 2025 - Apr 29, 2025
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Thursday - Tuesday

May 08, 2025 - May 20, 2025
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May 22, 2025 - Jun 03, 2025
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Operator discount: -$1271

Thursday - Tuesday

Jun 05, 2025 - Jun 17, 2025
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Operator discount: -$1271

Thursday - Tuesday

Jul 03, 2025 - Jul 15, 2025
$5055 $3791

Operator discount: -$1264

Thursday - Tuesday

Aug 14, 2025 - Aug 26, 2025
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Operator discount: -$1264

Thursday - Tuesday

Sep 04, 2025 - Sep 16, 2025
$5095 $3821

Operator discount: -$1274

Thursday - Tuesday

Sep 11, 2025 - Sep 23, 2025
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Operator discount: -$1274

Thursday - Tuesday

Sep 18, 2025 - Sep 30, 2025
$5095 $3821

Operator discount: -$1274

Thursday - Tuesday

Oct 09, 2025 - Oct 21, 2025
$5095 $3821

Operator discount: -$1274

Thursday - Tuesday

Oct 23, 2025 - Nov 04, 2025
$5095 $3821

Operator discount: -$1274

Book with Confidence

  • Low Deposit

    On The Go Tours requires a minimum deposit of 600 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of on the go tours charges.

    Up to 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 59 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.

    At 30 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

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