With the appeal of Zhangjiajie extending well beyond fans of the movie Avatar, Zhangjiajie has much to offer the nature lover too. Here are just some of the highlights from our Zhangjiajie tours.

• Zhangjiajie National Forest Park – The Zhangjiajie National Forest Park has more going for it than inspiration for movie backdrops. Stunningly beautiful natural landscapes that literally take your breath away are a welcome contrast from the otherwise busy pace of China’s big cities. A definite inclusion on any Zhangjiajie tour.
• Tianzi Mountain Nature Reserve – Rising one after another, the peaks of Tianzi Mountain provide stunning views. Visitors can see the full expanse of the Wulingyuan Scenic Area and the beauty of each season – all at the same time. This unforgettable highlight of our Zhangjiajie tours is where you experience the four wonders: Radiance of the Moonlight, Sea of Clouds, Rays of Sunshine and Snow in Winter. Truly mesmerizing.
• Bailong Elevator – The Bailong Elevator (Hundred Dragons Elevator) is a huge glass elevator built into the side of a cliff. It stretches 326 meters into the sky and is in the Guinness Book of Records for being the highest outdoor elevator in the world! A definite for those who want an adventure as part of their Zhangjiajie tour.
• Ten-mile Gallery – Passage through the Ten-mile Gallery is a scenic delight of peaked mountains dotting the green landscape, local villages, forests, farms, and winding streams. Like a life-size, three-dimensional immersion experience, you’ll have the chance to experience the essence of the region firsthand.
• Yuanjiajie Scenic Area – An essential part of a Zhangjiajie tours experience is the naturally formed plateau in the Forest Park where you can enjoy the view of the surrounding deep valleys and high summits, lower peaks and grotesque rocks, each with its own peculiar shape.

Want to experience more of real China? Why not visit these other sights in and around Zhangjiajie?

• Visit Fenghuang – Reputedly China’s most beautiful town, Fenghuang Ancient Town is located southwest of Xiangxi. A five hour drive from Changsha, Fenghuang lives up to its title. Be impressed by the mystery, elegance and primitive simplicity of the ethnic Miao minority, their stilt houses, and the local quaint bridges.
• Catch your breath –  That’s exactly what you’ll do at the Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon. The longest and highest in the world, the canyon draws adventurers from all over. You’ll be amazed at the sight provided by this exquisite natural landform.
• Step out for adventure – Not for the faint of heart, a walk on the transparent Glass Bridge may appeal. Hanging 300 meters above the ground with a transparent glass bottom, the bridge provides tourists with the thrill of walking in the sky, at the same time providing an outlook over the steep cliffs, lush mountains and clear waters of the Grand Canyon.

Want to explore even more of China? Discover our China tour packages and best China tours.

An ancient town in Hunan Province, Fenghuang has a reputation for having preserved the traditional ethnic customs and culture of the local minority people, as well the traditional buildings, which like the town date back 1,300 years.

Explore the former residence of Shen Congwen, one of the greatest modern Chinese writers. Climb the Tower of the East Gate, drop by the Yang Ancestral Memorial, the Ancient Town Museum and more.

Fenghuang Old Town, home to the Miao minority people, is renowned for the lines of traditional stilt houses tightly packed along the river. A visit here offers the chance to appreciate the elegance of the Miao style architecture or meander down the Tuojiang River to enjoy the serene riverside scenery. A far cry from the yang of China’s big and bustling cities, Fenhuang offers the perfect yin balance and travelers’ welcome reprieve.

With tours to, from and in twenty destinations in China, there is ample scope for extending your Zhangjiajie tour to include other cities and sights. Among the private tour options available we offer our guests tours combining Zhangjiajie with other stunning locales like:

• Changsha – Famous for the Yuelu Academy, with its preservation of scholarly pursuits, and Hunan Provincial Museum with a stunning collection of silk manuscripts, Changsha also retains favor with locals as the adopted home of former leader Mao Zedong.

• Guilin – Travel from Zhangjiajie to Guilin for more beautiful and inspiring landscapes. The karst stone mountains that dominate here and line the Li River have been fuel for the poetic fire for centuries. When you explore here, you’ll discover why.

We’ve already curated tours that cover Zhangjiajie, Changsha, and Guilin, however, if you have your own special itinerary in mind, let us take care of all the details. We know the region, work with exceptional English speaking guides and love helping our customers create beautiful travel memories that last well beyond the final departure gate on tour.

No two travelers are alike, that’s why we offer our customers maximum flexibility on our ChinaTours. If you’ve ever felt herded into a restaurant, commission-based shopping destination, or crowded tour bus, you’ve loved how flexible our tours are. Here’s what you can expect on a ChinaTours.com adventure:

• Relaxed private tour itineraries that allow ample time for sightseeing at every highlight.
• English speaking guides with the knowledge and enthusiasm you’d expect from a China tour company that cares.
• Own choice of meals at lunch and dinner, giving you the chance to experience the local cuisine and culture in every destination.
• Attention to every detail so you never need to worry about what’s happening next. From hotel check-ins to boarding the latest high-speed train, we’re right there with you every step of the way.
• The chance to customize your adventure any way you want to.

Our team of dedicated travel consultants know their stuff and would love to help you design the ultimate China tour, including time in Zhangjiajie – or anywhere else! You only need to ask us.

With its fascinating undercurrent of Tibetan influences and cuddly giant panda fame, Chengdu is popular with travelers of all ages. It’s why we’ve created such a wide selection of Chengdu tours catering to the diverse tastes and interests of visitors. We’re happy to say there’s something for everyone. Depending on your time and budget, choose from our Chengdu day tours or multi-day tours. You can also opt for one of our best China tours that include Chengdu, or a tour from Chengdu that includes other exciting destinations in China. Small group, private, and custom tours are available, and each includes many or all the city’s highlights.

• Leshan Giant Buddha– You could be forgiven for thinking everything is giant in Chengdu, but it’s not, although the Leshan giant Buddha might make you think twice. Like giant pandas, the Leshan Buddha inspires awe and wonder. At 71 meters high, the statue is a relic from the Tang dynasty, being built over a thousand years ago. It was carved out of a sandstone cliff face at the confluence of the Min and Dadu rivers. The statue faces Mount Emei, near the town of Leshan and continues to draw people to worship even today.

• Mount Emei – Soak up the breathtaking views from one of the four sacred Buddhist mountains in China at the western rim of the Sichuan Basin. A place of reverence for locals, Mount Emei is believed to be the place where enlightenment was attained by bodhisattva Samantabhadra and where Shaolin kung fu was first practised. If the views from Mount Emei are a guide, it’s not hard to see why it holds such significance. Add it to your Chengdu must-see bucket list.

• Wannian Monastery – Also known as Ten Thousand Year Temple, Wannian Monastery sits at the foot of Mount Emei. Here you can wonder at the foresights and engineering miracle of construction that has survived an incredible 18 earthquakes to leave the spectacle of five halls and statues regarded as a rare national treasure. Apart from that, enjoy the opportunity to reflect in quietude, just as buddhists still do today.

• Baoguo Temple– Yet another highlight at Mount Emei, Baoguo Temple is a Buddhist temple, believed to be the second oldest surviving wooden structure in southern China, with the main hall dating back to 1013. A place of quiet contemplation for monks, locals, and travelers alike.

• Chengdu Research Base of Giant Pandas – Nowhere else in the world can you gain such a complete appreciation of these amazing wonders of nature, giant pandas, and record your experience with them in photographs. See the breeding program, delivery room, and compelling baby pandas who will inevitably steal your heart, no matter how serious you are.

• Jinli Street – So much of what China has to offer is ancient and Jinli Street is no exception. While a drawcard for international visitors, it’s still possible to gain an insight to the commercial heritage behind Jinli Street. Operating in the same capacity for 2000 years, it is a testament to the vital role Jinli Street has played in preserving local culture and traditions. It’s the perfect place to experience and enjoy Sichuan food, tea, and bustling markets.

• Wangjiang Pavilion Park – Wonder at the architecture, history, and conservation to be found at Wangjiang Pavilion complex in the heart of Chengdu. The pavilion grounds hold a memorial to a beloved poet Xue Tao, established during the Tang dynasty. Bamboo gardens containing 150 different varieties are a tribute to Xue who loved bamboo, as well as a remarkable effort to conserve an important food source for the pandas.

When in Chengdu, be sure to check in with your local guide to discover how you can experience even more in this unique China destination. With our commitment to creating beautiful travel memories for every customer, we’ll curate a collective of experiences on our Chengdu tours that you’ll remember long after arriving back home.

• Savor food Sichuan-style – For an authentic culinary experience, brave the heat and share one of Chengdu’s fine hot pot dinners. Flavorsome and fun, hot pot is a wonderful way to meet the locals and eat as they do.

• Experience the drama of Chinese performance arts – Chengdu’s nightlife via Chinese opera exposes the full breadth of drama and passion with its gorgeously ornate costumes, make-up, and ear-piercing singing, but it doesn’t stop there. Marvel at the incredible skill, wit, and craftsmanship demonstrated through Bian Lian, China’s mask changing art form. As the definitive symbol of Sichuan opera, in Bian Lian, the masks and fans change from one face to another with virtually imperceptible movements. Experience it on a Chengdu tour with us.

• Celebrate the culture of tea – While tea is at the very heart and soul everywhere in China, it is argued by some that tea culture originated in Chengdu. This makes it the ideal place to take time and savor one – or many – flavors of tea. Visit a traditional tea house, meet connoisseurs, learn about leaves, sip slowly, and breathe deeply. Truly the perfect way to spend an afternoon in Chengdu.

• Get up close with pandas – Our Chengdu tours include time visiting giant pandas, however for an extra special panda experience, visit Dujiangyan Panda Base. By making a donation (check costs when booking your Chengdu tour with us), you can sit with these gorgeous animals, be photographed, and understand more about what makes them so lovable.

• Extend your tour – There are many options for extending your Chengdu tour. You can do so by spending more time in the city itself by adding on other cultural experiences, or capitalizing on Chengdu’s proximity to other stunning landmarks like Mount Qingcheng and Jiuzhaigou National Park.

Whether you’re after a private, custom, or small group tour, we’ll help create the kind of experience that stays with you for a lifetime.

One of the many benefits of a ChinaTours.com tour is the opportunity to experience a city through the eyes of a knowledgeable local guide. Of course, this applies in Chengdu too! We carefully select our guides, just as thoughtfully as we design our tours. Understanding how important an authentic experience is for our customers, we work with local people who love their city and have a genuine desire to build bridges of understanding between cultures. Reviews from our customers tell us we’re doing something right, especially when it comes to our guides. In fact, with hundreds of reviews, many of them complimenting the professionalism of our travel consultant team and guides, we’re proud to say, we’re definitely helping create beautiful travel memories for people from all over the world.

In response to demand for luxury travel, we’ve taken the bold step of adding luxury tours  to our repertoire. Of course, Chengdu made the cut when it came to our selection of cities that showcase China’s best. Here’s just a taste of what’s in store.

For our luxury tour guests we offer our 24/7 Luxury Tour Advantage service. Providing attentive care every step of your journey, you’ll be escorted in style from the moment you arrive in Chengdu. A thoughtful selection of luxury tour accommodation is designed to relax and restore. Enjoy an exclusive suite at The Waldorf Astoria Chengdu; it’s the perfect sanctuary after a day’s exploration.

The more relaxed nature of our luxury itineraries allow ample time for visiting the city highlights that profile Chengdu’s very best in tea, culture, and nature, as well as time for unique, once in a lifetime experiences. A chance to immerse yourself in real China in understated style, our luxury tours are the perfect way to create beautiful travel memories with a difference.

While Chengdu is a big city, even by China’s standards, there is still a deep connection with nature to be found here. Of course, everyone loves the giant pandas, but don’t be fooled. There is far more than pandas in this exciting city.

• Jiuzhaigou National Park – Located in the north of Sichuan Province, Jiuzhaigou Scenic Spot is famous for its stunning natural beauty. Steeped in mythology and legend, Jiuzhaigou National Park is considered sacred by the local Tibetan and Qiang people and it’s easy to see why. Visit here and you’ll have the chance to take in the spectacular view of Nuorilang Waterfall and admire the Long Lake which is surrounded by rolling mountains and enjoys pure blue sky as background.

• Huanglong Scenic Spot – Revered for its stunning views of colorful ponds that are formed by calcite deposits, at Huanglong Scenic Spot you’ll also discover waterfalls, caves, snow-capped mountains, and valleys. It is now preserved as a UNESCO World Heritage site and plays an important role in providing a home to many endangered species, including the giant panda and golden snub-nosed monkey.

• Mount Qingcheng – As the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Mount Qingcheng is also considered the birthplace of Chinese Taoism. Surrounded by vibrant lush green mountains and peaks, discover why it continues to be a place of contemplation and peace for locals.

Don’t let China’s big city bustle let you believe there aren’t beautiful natural landscapes to admire and appreciate. We’ll help you find and enjoy them on any of our Chengdu and best China tours. Just ask us.

With many of our best China tours incorporating one or a number of days in Shanghai, we offer ChinaTours.com travelers the opportunity to see, do, and experience more in this fabulous city. Here is just a sample of the highlights included among our offerings.

• Ascend Shanghai Tower – Rise straight to the top with a visit to Shanghai Tower, China’s tallest building. At 121 stories and 632 meters tall, the tower offers an unparalleled birds’ eye view from the observation deck. Or visit the Oriental Pearl Tower and dine in sky-high style looking out over the vast city. Spectacular experienced by day or night. 

• Eat out and savor Shanghai’s diverse cuisine – Both international and traditional choices are plentiful, arguably making Shanghai the cuisine capital of China. To experience truly authentic food, try local Benbang food or traditional Shanghai street food. Ask your guide for dine-like-a-local insider tips. 

• Explore ancient history – China is steeped in history that extends back millennia and on a Shanghai day tour, you’ll have the chance to peek inside a small window of it with a visit to the Shanghai Museum. A massive museum housing over 140,000 artifacts, the full history and culture of this cosmopolitan city is presented creatively, along with the background to the surrounding cities of Suzhou and Hangzhou. 

• Promenade on The Bund – A Shanghai tour wouldn’t be complete without a leisurely walk along The Bund, one of the city’s most recognizable landmarks. Iconic and prestigious both now and in the past, The Bund is one of the most well-preserved examples of old Shanghai glamour. 

• Shop like a local in Shanghai – Even if shopping is not your thing, our Shanghai days tours can accommodate a walk along Nanjing Road, the busiest shopping precinct in China. Prefer a more boutique experience? We can organize that too. Shanghai is home to some of the finest porcelain, silk, and traditional handcrafts in China and our local guides can personalize your visit with a visit to anyone or a number of boutique stores for a completely bespoke experience. 

• Appreciate cultivated beauty – For a more contemplative experience on your Shanghai tour, change tempo and visit Yuyuan Garden, where you can marvel at the stunning gardens and art precinct located close by. The thoughtfulness and care taken by the original owner of the garden are found in every corner. 

• Dive into old world glamor – Nowhere in China does the old and new blend so effortlessly as it does in Shanghai. Stroll around Chenghuangmiao bazaars and make a worthwhile detour to visit the Shikumen Museum in New Spot (XinTianDi) for a true taste of old world Shanghai. A delightful step back in time. 

• Discover international influences – Wander the quieter streets of Dongping Road or Sinan Road in the Former French Concession, where you will find the essence of classic Shanghai still evident in the streets, architecture, and stores.

Make truly special travel memories by extending your Shanghai tour with a visit to nearby Suzhou, Hangzhou, or by booking a unique cultural, cooking or craft experience in the heart of the city itself. There are many ways to extend your tour and regardless of your interests, we can tailor it all to your travel time and budget when you visit Paris of the East. Here’s just a taste of what we can organize:

• Learn the intricacies of Chinese gardens – Discover the complexity and care applied to ancient Chinese gardens, which retain their beauty and order even amidst the fast-paced environment of today’s world. Chinese gardens abound in Hangzhou and Suzhou, where they were created as places of contemplation and reverence. Take a totally garden-focused tour and delight in a tradition where plants, architecture, and water balance in perfect harmony. A total contrast to the pace of China’s vast and growing cities.

• Wander through water towns – Western travelers will know water towns as villages built along canals. These water towns are found in many locations throughout China, however, few are more picturesque than Zhouzhuang, Wuzhen, and Tongli, renowned for the way in which traditional architecture – and a way of life – have been preserved by locals. Tongli particularly is a delight with its numerous ancient bridges that span the sprawling network of canals. Marvel at how Tongli has survived in almost original condition despite the unabated development of China.

• Venture out to Huangshan Mountain – Located just a high-speed train ride from Shanghai, stunning Huangshan Mountain provides a real glimpse into the graceful charm of China. Combine it with a visit to beautiful Hongcun village, where you’ll discover the unique Hui-style buildings, which provided the backdrop to scenes from Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon. Together, utterly beautiful and inspiration enough for enduring travel memories.

Make the most of the time between travel destinations and business commitments by booking a Shanghai layover tour.

How does it work? Simple! Travelers can tour in specific destinations in China, including in Shanghai, spending either 72 or 144 hours taking in the local sights, cuisine, and culture – all without a visa. Our layover tours in Shanghai can be arranged as private tours following one of our set itineraries. We can also custom design a layover tour incorporating everything on your Shanghai bucket list, so if you can’t see what you’re looking for in our Shanghai day or multi-day tour options, just ask us. No request is too big or small that our team of dedicated travel consultants can’t create a custom tour  solution for you.

We understand time is at a premium especially on layover tours, so we do everything possible to keep your travel arrangements as simple as possible. Here’s what’s included in our layover tours, both in Shanghai and other destinations throughout China.

• Convenient transfers – Forget the hassle of arranging transfers between the airport, train station, hotel, and sights. We’ve taken care of it! Every Shanghai layover tour includes pickups, drop offs, and transfers between each destination on the tour. We only use late-model vehicles and experienced drivers. And if it’s a little of luxury you’re after, we can arrange that too. Just ask us. 

• Local guides – Extracting the most from every minute of your time in Shanghai is possible with a knowledgeable guide who loves sharing the very best of their city with you. Enjoy forming a genuine connection with a local and discover real Shanghai – it’s food, culture, history, and color. You’ll leave with deeper insights and appreciation of this city’s wonderful heritage. 

• Smart itineraries – As travelers like you, we understand the need to make every minute count while visiting a new destination. Relax with the confidence we’ve done the thinking for you with our thoughtfully designed Shanghai day tours. However, if there’s a special ‘must see’ on your list, let us organize it for you. Or stay a little longer and explore more by enjoying one of our best China tours.

The ChinaTours.com team has to admit being just a little fascinated with the way beautiful art and design flourishes in Shanghai and in surrounding Suzhou and Hangzhou. Few places can compare with the flourishing of craftsmanship found in this corner of China. Here are just some of the reasons why we love the region:

• Exquisite porcelain – Whether it’s a collectible you’re after or the opportunity to learn more about the history and masterful craftsmanship of Chinese porcelain, while in Shanghai, a visit to the Jingdezhen Porcelain Artware Co is a must. Expect to be amazed and delighted by the finest examples of traditional Chinese porcelain, from the easily recognized blue and white treasures to the many other styles of porcelain which have been preserved in their traditional form for centuries.

• Savor stunning silk and Suzhou slippers – For lovers of beautiful things, join us on a journey to understand the heritage, beauty, and artisans behind Shanghai’s silk enduring trade. While industry dynamics have changed with advances in technology, there is a growing desire for many to know the traditional ways of silk production and to preserve the skills and techniques of these centuries old crafts. Silk production and silk embroidery are well and truly alive today, and both are showcased beautifully in and around Shanghai. Visit the China National Silk Museum in Hangzhou for a deep dive into all things silk related. Here you can enjoy learning how silk has been intricately woven into the fabric of life and commerce in China and beyond. Admire and delight in quirky, but beautiful ‘art on silk’ evident in the delicate shoes, slippers, and accessories crafted by hand at Suzhou Cobblers. Featured in Vogue, Elle, and The Asian Wall Street Journal, Suzhou Cobblers provides a taste of old world class with exquisite handmade silk slippers that feature the finest Chinese silk and embroidery. And for a silk experience beyond compare, acquaint yourself with Xiuniang Silk. Literally translated as ‘embroidery craftswomen’, you’ll learn the story behind the brand – one woman, who with her son has created a silk empire while still holding true to traditional materials and techniques. Fancy a pair of Suzhou silk slippers or silk scarf art piece? Let us organize that for you on your visit to Shanghai.

• All things blue and white – Handmade blue and white nankeen cotton fabric, which originated in Jiangsu, Zhejiang and Guizhou (not far from Shanghai), is yet another beautiful example of traditional handcrafts being preserved by contemporary artisans. There is nowhere in China where this is done with more care and authenticity than Chinese Hand Printed Blue Nankeen Gallery, a tiny shop located off a small courtyard on Changle Road Lane 637. Founded in the 1950s by Kubo Mase, a Japanese artist, this delightful boutique houses an authentic collection of hand printed blue nankeen collectibles. Gather up a print, wall hanging, or item of clothing to add to your China tour treasure trove.

• Pop art Chinese style – Gain insights into the way popular contemporary art has gained a place in the heart and minds of local and international collectors with a visit to the Propaganda Post Art Center in Shanghai. Featuring various styles of people’s art, including woodcut, Dazibao (posters from the period of the Cultural Revolution), and fabric, as well as images of Shanghai women and fashion during its reign as Asia’s glamour capital, the gallery is doing a wonderful job at preserving China’s artistic modern history.

• Ink+Moon = InkMoon – Ever wondered how calligraphy masters created such beautiful works of written art with ink and brush? While in Shanghai, you can learn how. Slow down and spend time learning the ancient craft of calligraphy when you attend a workshop at InkMoon, a business operated with a vision to impart the skills and love of calligraphy and silk fan painting to Chinese culture lovers all over the world.

• Dine in old world Shanghai glamour – Food is so much a part of beautiful travel memories, we couldn’t help but include a private dining experience at one of Shanghai’s most iconic dining establishments among our selection of ‘must do’ activities. While bookings are difficult to make at this restaurant, which has impressed diners the world over, we do our best to bring this special Shanghai experience to life for our customers. Ready to dine back in time? Let’s book you in.

Indulge in the newest addition to ChinaTours.com with a luxury tour that includes divine days in Shanghai. Our tour designers have curated a trove of exquisite activities to elevate your time in Shanghai to what it should be – utterly memorable at every turn. For our luxury tour guests, we offer our 24/7 Luxury Tour Advantage service which means you are escorted every step of your time on tour, including from the moment you arrive in Shanghai. Luxury tour accommodation is designed to relax and restore. Enjoy the sumptuous surrounds of a suite at the Shanghai Fairmont Peace Hotel. A perfect sanctuary after a day’s exploration. More relaxed itinerary schedules on our luxury tours allow ample time for visiting city highlights that profile Shanghai’s very best in design, culture, and craftsmanship, as well as time for unique, once in a lifetime experiences. A chance to experience real China in understated style, our luxury tours are the perfect way to create beautiful travel memories with a difference.

Among the many Xi’an highlights,  you’ll discover an ancient city wall that is virtually intact, a remarkable feat given the pace at which China has advanced. Sensational restaurants and street food are a given, along with many other ancient Chinese treasures, found at the Shaanxi History Museum, Drum and Bell Towers, beautiful pagodas, temples, and mosques, and more.

The area around Xi’an offers much to the explorer too. Take advantage of Xi’an tours that cover ground within a day’s travel of the city. In close proximity, you’ll find Chenlu Ancient Town, the home of porcelain in China’s northwest; Yan’an, a place where the spectacular Hukou Waterfall can be admired; Donghan Folk Art Village, a trove of traditional art and craft; and Foping National Natural Reserve.

With ChinaTours.com there are many options for a Xi’an tour. Choose from a small group (maximum 12 travelers), a private Xi’an tour, made up of your own family and friends, or custom design your own tour. For travelers wanting a next-level experience, we can help with that too. Each of our luxury tours includes time in Xi’an.

We challenge you to not fall in love with Xi’an. It’s simply beautiful! And with the help of our knowledgeable English speaking tours guides, our Xi’an tours are the gateway to discover and experience real China. Totally focused on showing you the best Xi’an has to offer, your Xi’an tour will make for beautiful travel memories that will inspire you long after you return home.

Ready for your Xi’an adventure? Be surprised and delighted by the highlights of our Xi’an tours.

• Salute the Terracotta Army – Discovered in 1974 by a local farmer near the Mausoleum of the First Qin Emperor, the Terracotta Army is an incredible collection of terracotta figures, horses, and chariots, believed to part of Emperor Qin’s attempt to protect himself in the afterlife.

• Ascend Xi’an’s City Wall – Xi’an city has an interesting history, as over 1000 years ago it was the point of origin for the famous Silk Road. Take the opportunity on your Xi’an tour to explore the ancient Xi’an City Wall which encloses the old capital. Marvel at the largest and best-preserved city wall currently standing in China which looks as though no time has passed.

• Reflect in the Great Mosque – Take advantage of the opportunity to visit the oldest and largest Islamic mosque in China. Still a place of reverence and contemplation for locals and visitors, the Great Mosque is a walled complex of five courtyards, with many walls carrying beautiful depictions of plants, birds, objects and text, in both Arabic and Chinese. The gardens and traditional architecture provide a gorgeous backdrop for creating beautiful travel memories.

• Wander Muslim Quarter – Food lovers will savor their Xi’an tour experience, especially when it takes them down Muslim Quarter. A half kilometer stretch of thriving and bustling commerce, Muslim Quarter is lined on both sides with delicious restaurants and traditional Muslim shops offering tasty treats and bargains for the intrepid traveler. While it draws tourists, there’s no doubt Muslim Quarter is a firm favorite with locals as well. There’s a strong Muslim community and culture here and it’s become something of a famous drawcard for Xi’an.

• Explore Shaanxi History Museum – As China’s first contemporary museum, Shaanxi History Museum does a fine job of curating China’s ancient and modern history. Thoughtfully designed in keeping with traditional Tang dynasty buildings with a central hall with four sections around it, it’s a museum that’s garnered international attention with its permanent and visiting collections.

Our Xi’an tours are what beautiful travel memories are made of. Here are just a few of the experiences you can add to your travel arrangements on a small group, private or custom tour. While you’re traveling with us, let’s make it happen!

• Bike ride the City Wall – Xi’an’s City Walls are in premium condition making a bike ride an easy way to traverse the four sides of the city and take in both old and new. Expect outstanding views from every corner and lots of laughter as you unleash your inner childlike adventurer. Tandem bikes are available for those wanting a little extra fun!

• Experience the Tang Dynasty up close – Dig a little deeper into Xi’an’s ancient history and experience the Tang Dynasty’s story through the ancient capital’s traditional music and dance. The Tang Dynasty’s legacy endures in Xi’an today through this wonderful show filled with historical Chinese drama, dance, and music. Captivating and dazzling, the mix of tragedy and triumph provides an insight into ancient imperial life.

• Indulge with dumplings – Definitely a treat for the foodie, Xi’an dumplings come in all shapes, sizes, and yes, even colors. A beautifully prepared banquet offers visitors the chance to savor the many variations on a dumpling. Be sure to arrive hungry and prepare for a Xi’an-style food experience.

While you’re in Xi’an, why not take advantage of its proximity to other highlights that showcase Shaanxi Province. Whether you choose from our existing range of Xi’an tours or want a custom designed experience, we’ll bring it to life for you.

• Be inspired at Mount Hua – Hike or take a cable car to the north peak of Mount Hua, one of China’s five great mountains. Find inspiration in the breathtaking view made possible at the mountain’s peak. Precipitous cliffs, magnificent sunrises and sunsets, suspended caves, and Taoist temples are all waiting for you there.

• Discover more history in Yan’an – Outside of Xi’an, you’ll find Yan’an, where the magnificent Hukou Waterfall Scenic Spot is located. Spectacular – and famously yellow – Hukou Waterfall is an iconic highlight in the region. Depending on the time of your visit, you may even be lucky enough to catch a rainbow created by the main falls as it thunders into the gorge below. Yan’an is also home to the fascinating Mausoleum of the Yellow Emperor. Enjoy the chance to visit this sacred sight where it is believed the Yellow Emperor attained enlightenment leaving only his cap and robe to be entombed.

• Step back in time at Donghan Folk Art Village – Discover the art and craftsmanship of peasants that flourished here during the peak of the Communist revolution. With the opportunity to turn your hand to paper-cutting, painting, and dining with the local peasant families, a visit here is truly an encounter with a part of ancient China that is still intact.

• Explore the Foping National Nature Reserve – Don’t make the mistake of thinking natural wildlife doesn’t flourish in China. It does! In Foping National Natural Research, take the opportunity to see wild giant pandas, golden monkeys, and leopards peacefully at home in their natural habitat – if you’re patient and persistent enough to wait.

While our team of travel consultants are creative tour designers and have already curated many one day and multi-day Xi’an tours, we understand there are travelers who want to dream up their own adventure. We love that – we’re big dreamers too – and it’s why we offer customers the flexibility of designing their own tour . If Xi’an is a city on your must-see-in-China-bucket-list, we’ve got this! Talk to us about how we can help create China travel memories that include a Xi’an tour and get that bucket list ticked off.

Our range of luxury tours is for travel lovers looking for a next-level experience. If this is you, here’s what to expect on a luxury tour stop in gorgeous Xi’an. ChinaTours.com’s Luxury Tour Advantage service means you have 24/7 local assistance in every destination city, including from the moment you arrive in Xi’an having traveled business class by high speed train from Beijing. Premium luxury accommodation at the Sofitel Legend People’s Grand Hotel, an experience of pure indulgence. A more relaxed tour itinerary giving you the opportunity to wander freely through landmarks favored by locals, like Shuncheng Alley and Shuyuanmen Street, both ideal destinations for adding to your trove of collectibles. For the opportunity to truly connect to a deeper aspect of Chinese culture, in Xi’an, you’ll be a guest enjoying premium seats at a remarkable performance of music and dance at the Tang Dynasty Palace. A chance to experience real China in understated style, our luxury tours are the perfect way to create beautiful travel memories with a difference.

We understand traveling to China from anywhere in the world is a significant undertaking. Whether you decide on a Beijing tour or a longer multi-day China vacation starting in Beijing, we understand you’ll want to make the most of every minute, but not feel like you’re rushing through the tour.

We know because we’re travelers too. As people who’ve created the best China tours for over a decade, we get that there’s a fine line between overly packed itineraries and too much free time. Nobody wants to arrive exhausted at the next destination or feel like they need a holiday to get over the ‘holiday’. This is especially true for family tours. That’s why our tours maintain a more relaxed schedule, while still covering everything you’d expect. With culture, history, and authentic China focus, we keep it real, every step of your travel. Regardless of whether you book a one day Beijing tour or an extended China travel adventure, we’re focused on ensuring you have more time to experience real China in Beijing and beyond.

There’s no better way for western travelers who want to experience the very best of Beijing than taking in the sights with one of our lovely experienced guides. Helping to maximize the available time and bring the city and its history alive, our Beijing tours provide the benefit of knowledgeable and attentive local guides. As people who love their city and love sharing it with travelers, our guides are committed to building bridges of understanding between China as it really is, and China you’ve imagined from afar.

Enthusiastic and approachable the local guides we entrust our customers with on our Beijing tours are genuine locals. Not only do they know their city, they are passionate people who understand the vital role they play in making your tour what it should be; an enriching travel adventure. Like us, they’re attentive to every detail so you’ll never feel lost or left on your own. On tour in Beijing – and in every destination we service – our guides oversee hotel pick-ups and drop-offs, entry to sights and attractions, advise where to eat the very best in local food – in fact, they can answer any question and respond to any small detail you need assistance with. Discover what customers say about our guides .

Depending on your length of stay in Beijing, there is so much you can see. Our Beijing tours include iconic landmarks such as the Great Wall, Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square, the Summer Palace, Hutong Alleyways, Temple of Heaven and so much more. To give you an idea, here’s what we can cover on any of our small group, private or custom Beijing tours within a 3 day tour of Beijing:

• Visit the world’s largest city square, Tiananmen Square.
• Just across from Tiananmen Square, visit the magnificent Forbidden City, a culturally historic landmark in China, which was the former residence of Chinese royalty for five centuries.
• Take in the contemplative serenity of the Confucius Temple and Imperial College Museum.
• Stroll through Wudaoying Hutong and experience local life visiting the quaint shops and gain an insider’s view of a real Beijing community.
• Sample the famous local food market Sanyuanli where you can stock up on fruit and snacks.
• Make the trek to the Great Wall. Our preference? Visit the Mutianyu Great Wall, a less frequented part of China’s 1,400-year-old iconic landmark located approximately 70 kilometers from Beijing, making this a wonderful Beijing day trip.
• Marvel at the Summer Palace, appreciating the beautiful gardens and imagine the lifestyle of royalty who enjoyed this summer resort during imperial times.
• Stopover at Beijing’s iconic stadium and pool – the Bird’s Nest and Water Cube – built for the 2008 Summer Olympics and Paralympics.
• Visit the lively Beijing Zoo where you will be treated to a close look at the extensive collection of animals, including China’s charming pandas
• Make your way to the Lama Temple, an operating Buddhist temple with its art treasures that have survived many changes.

Looking for China tours from Beijing? We can help.

Regardless of whether you’re after a small group, private or custom tour, each thoughtfully designed adventure in our selection of best China tours starts with a tour of Beijing. Our small group and private tours cover all the essential highlights, while our custom tours offer more scope for a tailored experience. Luxury tour options, including tours from Beijing, are also available for those wanting to take their travel to another level.

Any time spent in Beijing is to be treasured. It is a fascinating city – beautiful, bustling, and intimately bound to China’s modern expansion and ancient past. Learn from your guide about the significance of the country’s capital to local Chinese people. Wonder at the life of imperial privilege and power at the Forbidden City. Acquaint yourself with the everyday life of Beijingers wandering through a hutong. Providing a taste of things to come for your tour, you’ll be primed to enjoy the many other fascinating cities, stunning landscapes, and rich history, culture and traditions to be found at every other tour destination.

Our range of luxury tours is for travel lovers looking for a next-level experience. If this is you, here’s what you can expect in Beijing. Premium luxury accommodation, including an overnight stay at the Aman Summer Palace, a stunning tribute to imperial architectural design, total luxury, and a private gate to the Summer Palace. Our luxury Tour Advantage Service delivered by your local guide and driver. Peking Roast Duck at one of Beijing’s most exclusive restaurants. A more relaxed tour itinerary and the chance to experience real China in understated style.

So, you’re planning a much anticipated vacation and want to know what is the best time to visit Taiwan. Depending on your tolerance for crowds and weather preferences, the best time to visit Taiwan can vary, however because of its temperate climate, you can visit Taiwan any time of year and not be overwhelmed by the icy temperatures typical of a Beijing winter or the hot, dry days found in the desert of Dunhuang.
If it’s cool, comfortable and dry you’re after, then aim to travel to Taiwan from September to November when the weather is best. This makes traveling between destinations – which is often by road around the island – a more enjoyable experience.

On the other hand, if you’re limited to travel during the high season, be aware the busiest time is from June to August, thanks to the summer months and extended summer school holidays. Just remember, if you decide to travel at this time, you’ll be contending with both international and local travelers, as well as higher travel costs. And the bonus? It’s hot during summer too.

When it comes to knowing the best time to visit Taiwan, a good rule of thumb is to remember:

July to September – Typhoon season, particularly August.
May and June – Rain season.
December to February – Winter, chilly and wet in Taiwan’s north, while in the south it is somewhat drier.

But it’s not just weather that dictates the timing of a holiday, is it? Activities and events are part of the decision process too. Chinese New Year (January and February), while a busy time, is also very lively as people return home to see families. Between February and April, cherry blossoms are in bloom in many locations, with Tamsui, Alishan, and Yangmingshan destinations you should add to your itinerary. Another highlight is the Mazu International Festival hosted in Taichung from February to May. Or for an experience that’s truly unique, the Taitung hot air balloon festival is held from July to August.

Asking how many days in Taiwan is enough is a bit like asking how long is a piece of string? That said, we’ll do our best to answer this question.
Like many destinations, the more you know, the more you want to know, but you have to start somewhere, and we recommend one week is a good baseline timeframe for a holiday in Taiwan. In a week (or even less with the right guide), you’ll enjoy a basic tour that takes in Taipei, a trip to Taroko, and one of either Alishan or Sun Moon Lake.

But for a deeper dive into Taiwan, more time is needed. For a tour around the island tour, two weeks to three weeks will allow you to cover a lot of territories. You could expect to visit the main cities – Taipei, Taichung, Taitung, Tainan, Kaohsiung, and Hualien, and enjoy the gorgeous landscape along the way, including sites at Taroko, Alishan, Sun Moon Lake, Kenting, and Yehliu.

Have a little more time on your hands? Maybe three or four weeks? Add a couple of offshore islands to your tour – think Green Island, Penghu, Orchid Island.

Only have time for a stopover? No problem. Five days will allow you to enjoy a Taiwan taster.

There is so much to see and do on our Taiwan tours, but with our must see list of highlights and experiences, you can create your own adventure.

• For history and culture, visit the National Palace Museum, Chiang Kai-Shek Memorial Hall, Martyrs’ Shrine, Chikhan Tower, Fort of Anping, Foguangshan, historic streets in Beipu, Tamsui and Jiufen.
• Discover the natural beauty of Taroko, Alishan, Yushan, Kenting, Yehliu, Wujie and Scenic East Coast. Gorgeous all year round.
• Visit the traditional food markets and the famous night markets to immerse yourself in local flavors – and enjoy some of Taiwan’s fabulous food.
• Soak in a natural hot spring in Chiphen or Jiaoxi and soothe those weary tourist muscles.
• Maybe you’re a bike riding fan. Climb onto a bike and cycle around Dajia Riverside Park and Da-dao-cheng Wharf (both in Taipei). Visiting Sun Moon Lake? Cycle around the lake for sensational views and photo opportunities.
• Connect with local farmers during farm visits or a farm stay that highlights typical life on the land.
• Book a home stay at the Wujie Indigenous Village for insights to local culture and cuisine.
• Food lovers can get hands on with a cooking class in Taipei, by visiting famous local restaurants showcasing authentic Taiwanese food, or taking part in a farm to table experiences at a local scallion farm in Sanxing.
• For tea lovers, make and taste tea when you visit a famous teahouse in Taipei, a tea plantation in Dongshan, or the plantation and tea museum at Pinglin.
• Delight in the full spectrum of Taiwanese cuisine, from street food to Michelin restaurants, a local’s favorite canteen to a traditional miner’s lunchbox.

If you’re wanting a slower pace and the opportunity to see more by traveling fully around the island, then two weeks to three weeks will allow you to cover some serious distance, even on this relatively small island. Balance time in the main cities – Taipei, Taichung, Taitung, Tainan, Kaohsiung, and Hualien, with beautiful natural landscapes in destinations like Taroko, Alishan, Sun Moon Lake, Kenting, and Yehliu. Taking this approach provides the kind of insights you’d expect from a tour designed to create beautiful travel memories. Traveling this way means deeper insights to the unique, natural scenery and environment of Taiwan, which is only possible with a round island tour. With ample time, you’ll enjoy the opportunity to visit culturally and historically significant sights and take in beautiful natural landscapes along the way. With a balance of both modern and traditional, and all that makes Taiwan special, you will appreciate the easy pace of this type of Taiwan tour where you have ample time to soak up each experience.
And if you’d like to see more beyond Taiwan’s shores, consider adding Green Island, Penghu, and Orchid Island to your tour itinerary.

As travel industry insiders, we know a thing or two about tour design, that’s why we recommend to travelers who visit Taiwan from USA, UK and AU to consider turning their Taiwan tour into a Taiwan plus tour. What does that mean? Let’s explain. If your schedule permits, a Taiwan plus tour allows you to take advantage of clever ticketing that only industry insiders know about. With this approach you can enjoy a Taiwan plus Vietnam tour, a Taiwan plus Hong Kong tour, a Taiwan plus Cambodia tour – or a Taiwan plus tour that includes any other destination in Asia. How does it work? Instead of simply booking a direct flight for a Taiwan only tour – say, LA to Taipei – you can actually book a flight with China Airlines or Eva Air traveling LA/Taipei(9 nights)/Beijing, Shanghai/ LA that is cheaper. Incredible! That means you can enjoy a 9 day Taiwan tour plus our bestseller 8 day tour Beijing/Xi’an/Shanghai for a lower price than the cost of a direct flight tour. Want to learn more about our Taiwan plus tours? Reach out to our tour design crew today.