Leisure River Cruise Getaway
Discover the timeless beauty of China with a leisurely tour that includes Beijing, Shanghai, and a scenic Yangtze River cruise. This is the perfect introduction for first-time visitors. Immerse yourself in the grandeur of Beijing, where ancient palaces like the Forbidden City stand tall, and bustling hutongs offer a vibrant taste of local life. Cruise along the majestic Yangtze River, marveling at breathtaking landscapes and encountering charming riverside villages. Discover the cosmopolitan charm of Shanghai, with its towering skyscrapers, trendy boutiques, and vibrant nightlife.
Tailor your China vacation to your interests with a private guide, driver, and vehicle. We'll create a personalized itinerary to ensure you a memorable experience.
Suggested 10-Day Itinerary
| Day | Highlights |
|---|---|
| 1-3 Beijing |
The Forbidden City, the Great Wall, the Temple of Heaven, Hutongs |
| 4-7 Chongqing |
Yangtze River Cruise, Three Gorges Dams |
| 8-10 Shanghai |
The Bund, the Shanghai Tower, Zhujiajiao Water Town |
Tour 'Wow' Points
Sail through a Living Painting with Nature's Masterpiece
As the Yangtze River Cruise glides along the azure waters, you can marvel at the towering cliffs, lush greenery, and ancient temples that line both sides of the river.
Walk in the City Steeped in History
Beijing is like a seasoned sage blending ancient wisdom with contemporary energy. The Forbidden City and the Mutianyu Great Wall are both architectural marvels with historical significance.
Observe Local's Everyday Life in Hutongs
Hutongs in Beijing provide a unique opportunity to experience Beijing's traditional way of life. Wander through winding alleys and immerse yourself in the local culture by visiting a traditional family home.
Explore Water Town's Bridges and Gardens
Admire the beautifully preserved ancient houses and temples in Zhujiajiao Water Town in Shanghai, showcasing traditional Chinese architecture.
Experience the Captivating 8D Cityscape
Known as the "8D city" due to its unique hilly landscape, Chongqing boasts breathtaking panoramas, with distinctive architectural complexes.
Discover real reviews of Highlights Travel Family's best-rated service across trusted platforms.
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Amazing and Effortless Experience Overall!
China Highlights is totally legit and they planned our visit in Beijing perfectly, they were also great with being flexible to meet our unique needs and timelines, with multiple changes on the fly. Our guide in Beijing, William, was amazing as well! William was friendly, kind, thoughtful, funny, and also was great at keeping us on track timing-wise (as we didn’t make this particularly easy for him lol). Cannot recommend both China Highlights and William to anyone else looking to visit China for the first time! more
Jun 2025, jamesrkable
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A culture of hospitality and smiles
Beijing was prettier and far less crowded than anticipated. Colin aka Po Po, our guide, enhanced the experience with his knowledge and wicked sense of humour. He made every moment special for us.We spent about three days in Beijing and surrounds. China highlights offerings were high quality, including accomodation, car, driver, guide and selection of real local restaurants. Being vegetarian wasn’t an issue at all. Visiting historical quarter of Beijing along with Hutong walk and Confucius Beijing temple were unique experiences- which became more special with Colin’s interest in philosophy and wonderful global perspective. Despite language barriers- we were greeted by scores of locals with genuine smile and curiosity. We shall be back (hopefully with Colin) to explore this wonderful culture. more
Jun 2025, Inderjeet
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Beijing group tour
We had a group tour for our clients and William was our guide. He was knowledgeable, kind and flexible throughout the tour. Our clients loved the way he explained diverse topics. We would recommend him for our future groups too.Thank you William and God bless! more
Jun 2025, Prima Rodrigues
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Suggested Itinerary
Your personal guide and driver will be waiting for you at the arrivals, ready to transfer you to your hotel.
Your first visit will get to the Temple of Heaven, a magnificent complex of circular buildings used for ancient imperial ceremonies. Surrounded by a serene park with centuries-old trees, it's a peaceful oasis in the city. Watch locals dance or exercise as you stroll through the park and immerse yourself in Chinese culture.
Get ready to head to the Mutianyu Great Wall, a picturesque, less-crowded section that offers stunning views. Easily accessible by cable car, it's a convenient destination for a day trip. For a thrilling adventure, try tobogganing down the wall!
Tiananmen Square is the heart of Beijing, surrounded by imposing government buildings. The magnificent Forbidden City, with its golden roofs adorned with mythical creatures and symbolic halls, lies beyond the Gate of Heavenly Peace.
Escape the crowds and savor a tranquil afternoon tea at the Forbidden City. Our guide will lead you to an imperial court where you can indulge in fine teas, coffees, and desserts after exploring the palace.
On the Hutong tour in the afternoon, you'll explore Beijing's traditional alleyways and then visit a local home to gain a deeper understanding of everyday life in the city. Engage in a warm and welcoming conversation with the host.
The flight from Beijing to Chongqing takes 3 hours in the morning.
Before embarking on your Yangtze River Cruise, spend a half-day exploring the fascinating city of Chongqing. Explore Ciqikou Street, a historic neighborhood that is brimming with life. There are souvenir shops, charming tea houses, lively music, and local eateries offering authentic regional cuisine. Visit Eling Park for panoramic vistas of the city. And witness the train passing through a residential building at Liziba Station.
Your guide and driver will ensure a smooth transfer to the wharf, where you'll embark on your three-day Yangtze River Cruise. Enjoy the breathtaking scenery as you cruise along this iconic waterway to the Three Gorges Dam.
Your cruise begins with a captivating stop at Fengdu Ghost City, a renowned destination famous for its unique theme of death and the afterlife. Explore a fascinating blend of Taoist mythology, folklore, and cultural traditions. See the elaborate "Hell Gates" depicting various levels of hell and the associated punishments. Visit the "Tower of Ghosts," believed to be a gathering place for the souls of the dead before their final judgment.
Afterward, relax and unwind on the cruise. Enjoy cultural events and live performances as you cruise along the Yangtze River.
Today, your cruise will pass through the Qutang Gorge and Wu Gorge. Qutang Gorge is the shortest of the three gorges, characterized by towering cliffs and narrow passages. It's famous for its dramatic scenery and ancient temples.
Wu Gorge is the longest gorge, renowned for its picturesque landscapes, including towering mountains, lush forests, and charming villages. It's a popular spot for hiking and photography.
After a relaxing three-night cruise, disembark at Yichang Port. A convenient two-hour flight will take you to Shanghai, where your new guide and driver will be ready to greet you upon arrival, no matter what time your flight lands.
We will explore Shanghai's iconic spots today. For example, you will walk along the Bund. This waterfront promenade showcases a stunning array of colonial-era buildings and towering skyscrapers. And visit the Yuyuan Garden, a serene oasis in the heart of the city. This classical Chinese garden features intricate pavilions, tranquil ponds, and delicate rock formations. Jade Buddha Temple houses two magnificent jade Buddha statues.
You will also ascend to the tallest building in China - Shanghai Tower - to enjoy the dizzying height and breathtaking views from its observation deck.
Zhujiajiao Water Town, located just 15 kilometers from Shanghai's bustling city center, offers a serene escape into the past. This charming historical town is renowned for its traditional architecture, featuring quaint houses, ancient temples, and picturesque bridges.
Guided tours will introduce you to the town's cultural highlights, including the Helong Art Gallery, Chenghuang Temple, and Kezhi Garden. These three attractions offer a glimpse into Zhujiajiao's rich history and artistic heritage.
The afternoon will open to your plan. You can decide what to do with the recommendation from your local guide. Enjoy a free and leisurely afternoon for a city walk or a shopping time.
Your dedicated tour guide and driver will meet you at your hotel to ensure a smooth airport transfer. They will accompany you through the airport process, providing assistance up to the security checkpoint. As you pass through security, your guide will bid you farewell and wish you a safe journey.
Hotel Selection
—the Icing on the Cake
Boutique hotels are recommended to enrich your travel experience.
Tour Price
Price includes: