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10-Day Private China Itinerary
From the Great Wall and the Terracotta Army to the Li River and the iconic skyline of Shanghai, discover the experiences that have inspired travellers for generations.
Your Journey at a Glance
Everything you need to know at a glance. Detailed pricing and practical travel information are provided further down the page.
Journey Overview
- Duration: 10 Days • 9 Nights
- Travel Style: History • Landscapes • Cities
- Ideal For: Travellers seeking an introduction to China’s most iconic destinations.
- Best Time: April–June • September–October
- Route: Beijing (2) → Xi’an (2) → Guilin & Yangshuo (3) → Shanghai & departure (3)
Route Map
Journey Information
- From €3,500 per person (based on two guests sharing. Lower per-person pricing available for larger private groups)
- Private departures available year-round
- Small group departures also available
- Fully customizable itinerary
- Flexible international arrival & departure airports
Days 1–2 | Beijing
Where China’s Story Begins
Your journey begins in Beijing, a city where imperial palaces, grand ceremonial spaces and centuries of history come together to offer the perfect introduction to China.
Walk through Tiananmen Square into the magnificent Forbidden City, discover the architectural beauty of the Temple of Heaven and stroll through the elegant gardens of the Summer Palace, each revealing a different chapter of China’s rich imperial legacy.
Standing atop the Great Wall is an experience that defines any journey through China. You’ll discover why this extraordinary monument continues to inspire visitors from around the world.
Complete your stay by wandering the atmospheric hutongs, where traditional courtyard houses, lively cafés and hidden alleyways offer a glimpse into the everyday rhythm of Beijing.
Days 3–4 | Xi’an
The Cradle of Imperial China
For over a thousand years, Xi’an stood at the heart of Chinese civilization, serving as the capital of some of the country’s most influential dynasties and the eastern gateway to the legendary Silk Road.
Walk or cycle atop the imposing Ancient City Wall before exploring the vibrant Muslim Quarter, where bustling markets, traditional architecture and local flavours reflect centuries of cultural exchange. Nearby, the elegant Giant Wild Goose Pagoda stands as a lasting symbol of the arrival and spread of Buddhism in China.
Discover the extraordinary Terracotta Army, created to guard the tomb of China’s first emperor. More than two thousand years after its creation, it remains one of the world’s greatest archaeological discoveries.
Xi’an offers a fascinating contrast between ancient history and a city that continues to celebrate the traditions that shaped modern China.
Days 5–7 | Guilin & Yangshuo
China’s Legendary Karst Landscapes
For centuries, the extraordinary landscapes of Guilin and Yangshuo have inspired Chinese artists, poets and travellers alike.
Towering limestone peaks, winding rivers and peaceful countryside combine to create one of the country’s most recognisable and celebrated natural settings.
The Li River cruise between Guilin and Yangshuo is widely regarded as one of China’s defining travel experiences. Beyond the Li River, Yangshuo reveals a peaceful countryside where dramatic limestone mountains rise above rice fields, quiet villages and winding country lanes.
Explore the region by bamboo raft along the Yulong River before discovering its scenic rural landscapes, offering a slower and more intimate perspective on one of China’s most celebrated destinations.
Days 8–10 | Shanghai & Departure
The Skyline of Modern China
Your journey concludes in Shanghai, a city where historic neighbourhoods and soaring skyscrapers come together to showcase China’s remarkable transformation.
Stroll along the iconic Bund, where elegant colonial architecture faces the futuristic skyline of Pudong, before enjoying a relaxing cruise along the Huangpu River as the city comes alive after sunset.
Continue your discovery through the leafy streets of the former French Concession, the classical beauty of Yu Garden and the striking contrast of Jing’an Temple, whose centuries-old architecture stands peacefully amid the surrounding modern skyline.
From ancient capitals and timeless landscapes to one of the world’s great contemporary cities, return home having experienced the defining places that have shaped China’s identity.
Ready to Make It Your Own?
Every Ink Voyages itinerary is designed as a starting point rather than a fixed tour. Whether you’d like to spend more time in a particular destination, include additional experiences or adjust the pace of your journey, we’ll tailor every aspect to suit your interests and travel style.
Journey Overview
What’s Included & Pricing
Every Ink Voyages journey is individually tailored to your preferences. The information below is therefore intended as a general guide. The final inclusions and pricing will be confirmed in your personalised Travel Services Contract, prepared specifically for your itinerary.
Starting from
€3,500 per person
Based on two guests sharing. Lower per-person pricing available for larger private groups. Final pricing may vary depending on your travel dates and preferences.
Transportation
The journey combines China’s efficient high-speed rail network, domestic flights and private transfers to create a seamless travel experience between destinations.
- Private airport transfers upon arrival and departure
- Private transportation for all sightseeing and transfers throughout your journey
- Domestic high-speed train tickets (Standard Class)
- Domestic flights (Economy Class), including applicable taxes
Guiding & Experiences
- English-speaking guides and dedicated local support throughout your journey.
- All entrance fees and experiences included in your final itinerary
Accommodation
- Carefully selected accommodation chosen for its comfort, quality and value. Premium accommodation upgrades are available upon request.
- Daily breakfast
Travel Support
- Assistance with setting up the essential Chinese mobile apps before your journey
- Dedicated support from the Ink Voyages team before and throughout your trip, ensuring help is always just a message away.
What’s Not Included
As every Ink Voyages journey is tailored to your preferences, the items below should be considered a general guide. Any exclusions applicable to your itinerary will be clearly specified in your personalized Travel Services Contract.
- Chinese tourist visa (where required for your nationality – see our Tips & Tools | Visa Guidelines)
- International flights and applicable taxes
- Fuel costs and road tolls (for self-drive itineraries only)
- Optional excursions or activities not included in your final itinerary
- Meals and beverages not specifically included
- Personal expenses
- Travel and medical insurance (see our Tips & Tools | Travel Insurance)
- Gratuities for guides and drivers (entirely at your discretion)
- Any products or services not expressly listed under “What’s Included”
