China: 11-Day Top Cities Tour with Cruise and Terracotta

Discover the Best of China on an 11-Day Tour

Travelers seeking a comprehensive, immersive experience of China’s most iconic sites will find this 11-day tour with FUN CHINA TOURS offers a compelling blend of history, culture, and stunning landscapes. From the majestic Forbidden City to the extraordinary Terracotta Army, and from the breathtaking Li River cruise to the vibrant streets of Shanghai, this journey promises a well-rounded glimpse into China’s diverse tapestry.

What really sets this trip apart are a few standout features: the personalized storytelling in the Forbidden City, an interactive terracotta warrior-making experience, and the chance to explore less touristy villages that reveal authentic rural life. Plus, the tour’s inclusion of a private, comfortable vehicle and small group size (max 15 people) ensures a more intimate, flexible experience.

One consideration is that this tour involves quite a bit of walking and outdoor activity—so packing comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing is a must. For travelers eager to see both China’s historic grandeur and its scenic beauty without feeling rushed, this tour is an excellent pick.

This experience is best suited for curious travelers who want a balanced mix of cultural discovery, scenic landscapes, and authentic local encounters, all within a manageable itinerary.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Good To Know

• Authentic Cultural Insights: Dive into stories behind China’s famous sites with knowledgeable guides.
• Stunning Landscapes: Enjoy a cruise on the Li River and views of the Longji Rice Terraces.
• Hands-On Experiences: Make your own Terracotta Warriors and learn traditional crafts.
• Local Village Visits: Engage with rural life in less touristy villages.
• Private, Comfortable Transport: Travel in a spacious, air-conditioned vehicle with a small group.
• Flexible and Well-Planned: Includes a personalized half-day experience and 24/7 support.

An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

Days 1-4: Uncovering the Forbidden City’s Secret Corners

The tour kicks off in Beijing, where the classic sights are just the beginning. Instead of a typical walkthrough, you’ll get insider stories about the royal family and lesser-known halls. Your local guide will share tales not found in standard guidebooks, giving you a richer understanding of the palace’s history and politics. Walking through the massive courtyards, you’ll realize that the Forbidden City isn’t just a tourist magnet — it’s a storybook of imperial China.

A highlight here is the personalized approach—guests appreciate the depth of storytelling. One reviewer mentions the guide’s knack for revealing intriguing details about personalities and hidden chambers that make the visit more meaningful.

Days 5-6: Revealing the Secrets of the Terracotta Army

Next, you’ll visit Xi’an’s world-renowned Terracotta Army. Here, the focus is on understanding how these life-sized clay warriors were crafted and their significance in Chinese history. A unique feature is the warrior-making experience, where you can craft your own terracotta figure — a fun, memorable activity that adds a creative twist to the historical tour.

Many travelers mention how the site’s unimaginable scale and craftsmanship make a lasting impression. One review notes, “Seeing the warriors up close felt surreal — like walking into a giant, ancient sculpture workshop.” The guide also sheds light on some secrets of the site, enhancing the experience beyond just sightseeing.

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Days 7-9: Scenic Cruises and Rural Village Life

The scenery continues to impress with a luxurious cruise along the Li River. Expect to glide past famous karst formations and lush hills, often featured on RMB20 notes, making for stunning photo opportunities. The cruise is regarded as a highlight, with many describing the views as “like a traditional Chinese painting come to life.”

Following this, the tour visits the Longji Rice Terraces, where the vast, layered fields showcase human ingenuity. Standing atop the terraces offers spectacular vistas—a true highlight for nature lovers and photographers alike.

One of the most authentic experiences is a lunch with a Yao minority family. You’ll learn about their traditional rice stuffing techniques and enjoy tea brewed from freshly extracted oil, providing insight into rural Chinese customs that many travelers find “eye-opening.”

Finally, exploring less touristy villages allows for a glimpse into everyday rural life. Many appreciate this part of the tour as a way to see China beyond the popular tourist paths, offering a more organic, relatable view of local farming and community life.

Days 10-11: Discovering Shanghai’s Hidden Stories and Modern Marvels

The last stretch takes you to Shanghai, where the focus is on hidden stories of the Bund. Instead of the typical tourist spots, the tour guides you along historic routes that reveal the city’s 1920s golden age and original brickwork—details often missed by solo travelers.

A highlight is the visit to Shanghai Tower, where you can enjoy panoramic city views from one of the tallest buildings in China. The tour also offers a customized half-day experience, tailored to your particular interests, whether it’s art, fashion, shopping, or relaxation.

Many reviews mention how the guides make Shanghai’s history come alive with stories and local insights, making the visit more engaging and memorable.

Transportation, Accommodation, and Group Size

Throughout the trip, you’ll travel in a private, air-conditioned vehicle with large windows, ensuring comfort during transfers and scenic drives. The group is limited to 15 participants, which means you’ll get personalized attention and the chance to form connections with fellow travelers.

Hotels and meals are included as per the itinerary, with a focus on comfort and convenience. The tour begins and ends at your hotel, with the guide holding a sign “FunChinaTours” for easy meeting.

The Value of This Trip

At $3,899 per person, this tour offers a comprehensive look at China’s most iconic sites, combined with authentic cultural experiences. The inclusion of activities like making warriors, visiting rural villages, and a private river cruise adds value that typical sightseeing tours might not provide.

On top of that, the small-group setting and guides with local expertise ensure you’re not just another face in the crowd. The tour’s flexibility, like the half-day customized experience, allows travelers to focus on what interests them most.

Travelers who appreciate deep storytelling, scenic beauty, and culture will find this tour well worth the investment. It’s particularly suited for those who want a structured, yet intimate, look into China’s highlights without the hassle of organizing every detail themselves.

Who Would Love This Tour?

• Those eager to see China’s most famous sites with expert guidance.
• Travelers interested in local culture and authentic experiences.
• People who want scenic cruises and breathtaking landscapes.
• Visitors seeking a small, intimate group for a more personalized journey.
• Photographers looking for picture-perfect moments at the rice terraces and river scenes.
• Anyone who enjoys hands-on activities like crafting and local home visits.

Who Might Want to Consider Other Options?

• Travelers with limited mobility or needing wheelchair access — some activities involve walking.
• Families with young children under 5, as the pace and activities might be demanding.
• Those on a tighter budget, as the tour price reflects a premium experience.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
This tour involves quite a bit of walking and outdoor activity, so it may not be ideal for those with mobility challenges or wheelchairs.

Are meals included in the itinerary?
Yes, meals listed in the itinerary are included, such as lunch with the Yao family and other scheduled meals.

What is the group size?
Groups are limited to 15 participants, ensuring a more personal experience with the guide.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexible planning.

Is there a particular dress code?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, and weather-appropriate clothing is advisable depending on the season.

Will I have a local guide throughout the trip?
Yes, all guided activities are led by English-speaking local guides familiar with each destination.

What makes this tour stand out?
Its focus on authentic stories, less touristy villages, and scenic experiences like the Li River cruise create a balanced, memorable trip.

This 11-day China tour offers a compelling mix of iconic landmarks, scenic beauty, and authentic cultural encounters. Its small-group approach, thoughtful activities, and expert guides make it a wonderful choice for travelers seeking more than just a surface-level visit. Whether it’s your first trip or a return to China, this journey promises meaningful moments and unforgettable vistas.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby