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The Best of China with Expedition to Yunnan


beijing

Beijing

Xian

Xi’an

kunming

Kunming

dali

Dali

lijiang

Lijiang

Shangri_la

Shangri-la

Shanghai

Shanghai

About This Trip

Yunnan, known as the Land of Colorful Clouds and a Paradise for Tourists, boasts magnificent landscapes and rich ethnic customs. Here, the sparkling waters of Dali’s Erhai Lake mirror the snow-capped Cangshan Mountain, the stone-paved streets of Lijiang Ancient Town whisper tales spanning millennia, and the Songzanlin Temple in Shangri-La guards its profound mysteries. Whether you seek the traces of history, yearn for the embrace of nature, or explore your inner sanctuary, Yunnan can fulfill your travel dreams. We have meticulously crafted this 16-day tour itinerary, connecting seven destinations: Beijing, Xi’an, Kunming, Dali, Lijiang, Shangri-La, and Shanghai, to lead you on a journey that discovers the world heritage sites of Beijing and Xi’an, uncovers the charm of Yunnan, explore the prosperity and futuristic vibe of Shanghai, and indulges in the flavors of traditional Chinese cuisine. If you are fascinated by Chinese culture, ethnic charm, and Chinese delicacies, this itinerary is the ideal choice for you.

Highlights

  • The well-preserved and spectacular Forbidden City
  • The fascinating imperial garden in Beijing-Summber Palace
  • Relaxing tour on Mutianyu Great Wall
  • The world famous and amazing Terracotta Warriors Army in Xi’an
  • Enjoying breath-taking view in Dali, Lijiang, Shangri_la.
  • Exploring the well-preserved ancient city Lijiang.
  • Exquisite private garden in Suzhou-Humble Administrator’s Garden
  • Fantastic cultural shows and interesting activities
  • The bird view of Shanghai downtown from the 118F of Shanghai Tower
  • 7 hand-picked local special meals during the trip

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Tour Itinerary

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Meals included: No meal

Hotel: Decent 4-star or 5-star hotel in Beijing (centrally located)

Upon arrival, our tour guide will greet you at Beijing International Airport and transfer to your hotel for a rest and prepare for your exploration trip in China. Free and easy for the rest of the day. You will stay in Beijing for 3 nights.


Activities: Boating on Kunming Lake in Summer Palace.

Night Show: Legend of Kung Fu Show

Meals included: Buffet breakfast, Chinese Lunch, Peking Roasted Duck Dinner

Hotel: Decent 4-star or 5-star hotel in Beijing (centrally located)

This morning, you will be picked up at your hotel lobby. Then start the full day tour to explore the ancient capital city. Firstly visit Tian’an men Square-the largest square in the city center in the world and The Forbidden City which is the largest ancient wooden –structure construction group existing in the world at present. It is inscribed as the World Cultural Heritage by UNESCO. After that, visit walk to visit the close-by famous Jingshan Park where you can get a great panoramic view of the whole palace.

Lunch will be served with Chinese meal.

This afternoon, continue on to visit the largest imperial garden, The Summer Palace, which was built in late Qing Dynasty as the summer resort for the Empress Dowager Cixi. You can enjoy a fascinating landscape of the park while you take the lake cruise on Kunming Lake.

Tonight, we will arrange you with the welcome dinner, Peking Roasted Duck at the famous Quanjude Restaurant.


Meals included: Buffet breakfast, Chinese Lunch

Hotel: Decent 4-star or 5-star hotel in Beijing (centrally located)

This morning, drive to visit the world famous Great Wall (Mutianyu Section) which is listed among the 8 wonders in the world as well as the World Cultural Heritage. The section is the highlight of the Great Wall. You take a cable car (round way cable car charge incl.) up and down the Great Wall.

Lunch will be served at the foot of the great wall.

After the tour, drive back to hotel. On the way back to the hotel. You will have the chance the see the new landmarks of Beijing, The Bird Nest and Water Cube (Outside only). You will visit Bird Nest (inside) which is the known as the National Stadium.


Special activity: Rickshaw tour in Hutong

Meals included: Buffet breakfast, Chinese Lunch.

Hotel: Decent 4-star or 5-star hotel in Xi’an (centrally located)

It’s day 4 of your China tour. After breakfast, we will take you to visit the famous Houhai Park, a little slice of how locals live. Normally the locals exercise every day — it’s a good way to know local life. We then drive to visit the famous Temple of Heaven, the landmark of Beijing, which was used to pray for good harvest and hold the Heaven Worshiping Ceremony by the emperors in Ming and Qing dynasty. We then take you on a leisurely rickshaw tour in Beijing Hutong. You will have the chance to see the original residence of the local people and experience their lifestyle. Here is where we make time for lunch.

Then drive to the railway station for the bullet train to the ancient legendary city Xi’an (around 5.5 hours). It is absolutely an unforgettable travel experience of A Tale of Two Cities in One Day. Enjoy the comfortable and modern facilities on the fastest train in China as well as the landscape on the way. Once there, be picked up and transferred to the hotel.You will stay in Xi’an for 2 nights.


Meals included: Buffet breakfast, Chinese Lunch

Hotel: Decent 4-star or 5-star hotel in Xi’an (centrally located)

After breakfast, start your full day tour in the ancient city. Firstly visit the well-known Terracotta Warriors and Horses. The Terracotta Army was created to guard Emperor Qin Shihuang’s tomb and to protect him in the afterlife. It is estimated that there are over 7,000 life-size Terra-cottar figures and horses buried here.You will also visit the ceramic factory where you can get to know how the terracotta warriors are made.

Lunch will be served with local Chinese meal. 

This afternoon visit the landmark of the city, the Big Wild Goose Pagoda. Built in the Tang Dynasty, the square pyramid stands at 60 meters high and seven-story tall. It was originally built in 652 A.D. to preserve the Buddhist sutra which was brought by the famous Monk Xuanzang from India. The pagoda was newly inscribed as the world cultural heritage by UNESCO in June 22, 2014 which was an important site on the ancient Silk Road. Then visit the Grand Mosque. It is a time-honored and large-scale architecture complex, which shows the interpenetration between Islamic belief and Chinese culture. After that, stroll around the famous Muslim Quarters where you can taste the local delicious snacks.

After the tour, drive back to the hotel.


Meals included: Buffet breakfast, Dumplings at Defangchang Restaurant

Hotel: Decent 4-star or 5-star hotel in Kunming (downtown)

After breakfast, drive to visit the famous Small Wild Goose Pagoda, built in 707A.D. in Tang Dynasty, which is the typical brick tower with thick eaves in ancient China. It is art heritage of Buddhism in Tang Dynasty.

Then visit the Ancient City Wall, which was built in Ming Dynasty with a history over 600 years and might be the largest and best-preserved city wall in China. After that, visit the Former Residence of Family Gao which features for the well-preserved courtyard of Han Dynasty. You can also enjoy the traditional puppet show there.

Lunch will be served with the famous DE FA CHANG RESTAURANT and enjoy the dumplings there. After that, drive to the airport for the flight to the capital of colorful Yunnan. Once there, be picked up and transfer to your hotel. You will stay in Kunming for 2 nights.


Night Show: Dynamic Yunnan Show

Meals included: Buffet breakfast, Chinese Lunch

Hotel: Decent 4-star or 5-star hotel in Kunming (downtown)

After breakfast, drive to visit the famous Stone Forrest. Located in Lunan Yi Nationality Autonomous County, the Stone Forest is about 120 kilometers (75 miles) from Kunming. It covers an area of 400 square kilometers (96,000 acres). The Stone Forest is divided into several scenic areas with names like Greater Stone Forest, Lesser Stone forest, Outer Stone Forest, Underground Stone Forest, Stone Forest Lake, and Da Dieshui Fall. The Stone Forest was formed by karst two million to thirty million years ago. It contains peaks, pillars, stalagmites, depressions, underground rivers, and caves. The fantastic stone pinnacles rising abruptly from the ground resemble a huge, dense forest. After that, drive back to the downtown.

Tonight, we will arrange you with the best night show in Kunming, Dynamis Yunnan (A section). After the show, drive back to your hotel.


Special activity: Boating on Er’hai Lake

Meals included: Buffet breakfast, Dali local food (Lunch)

Hotel: Decent 4-star or 5-star hotel in Dali

This morning, you will be picked at your hotel and transferred to the railway station for the bullet train(around 2.5 hours on the way) to the romantic ancient city Dali which is the home of Bai Nationality. As one of the cradle of splendid of culture of Yunnan, the ancestors of Dali had resident here since 4th Century.

Once there, be picked up and transferred to visit the highlights of Dali. Firstly, visit the Dali ancient town, the capital of Nanzhao Kingdom, Tang Dynasty. The city existed was built in 1382 A.D.(Ming Dynasty ). You can still see the ancient city wall, city gate and towers. Then visit the Three Pagodas, three magnificent pagodas erected under a regime based here in Dali, Nanzhao, around mid 9th century; and the nearby South Gate of the Dali Old Town, one of the most eminent old towns across China. Continue on to take a leisurely cruise on the sapphire blue of Erhai Lake, where you might find a few trained cormorants of the Bai fisherman who have worked the waters for generations. After that, drive back to the town and stroll along the famous Foreigner Street.


Meals included: Buffet breakfast, Chinese Lunch

Hotel: Decent 4-star or 5-star hotel in Shangri-La (downtown)

This morning after breakfast, attend the local famous Xizhou Morning Market and experience the original lifestyle there. Then visit the local typical Residence of Bai Minority followed by the traditional 3-course tea of Bai Minority people. After that, drive to visit Shaxi Ancient Town (150km, 2-2.5 h) which was prosperous town on the Ancient Tea-Horse Route. Upon arrival, you will stroll along the old street and explore the ancient commercial town including the famous Ouyang Courtyard, Old Theater, flagging streets, alleyways, hundreds year-old trees etc. Lunch will be served with local Chinese meal during the trip.

After that, you will take a car ride from Shaxi to Shangri-La (around 4-4.5 hours). You will stay in Shangri-La at 3 nights.


Meals included: Buffet breakfast, Chinese Lunch, Tibetan style Dinner.

Hotel: Decent 4-star or 5-star hotel in Shangri-La (downtown)

Today, you will spend a full day time to explore Shangri-La. Firstly transfer to visit the famous Songzanlin Monastery, reputed as the “Small Potala Palace” which was built in 1681 A.D. and plays a very high role in the Tibetan Buddhism. The monastery is built against the hill and looks like a castle. As it is perfectly combined the Tibetan architectures style and the art, it is also considered to be “Museum of Tibetan Art”. Continue on to visit the beautiful Nixi Village, a local famous Tibetan village which is famous for the traditional black pottery and its handicraft. Then drive back to the old town and visit the famous Guishan Park. You will visit the famous Giant Buddha Monastery and the traditional Prayer Wheel. Tonight, we will arrange you with the local Tibetan style dinner. After dinner, drive back to your hotel.


Meals included: Buffet breakfast, Chinese Lunch,

Hotel: Decent 4-star or 5-star hotel in Lijiang (downtown)

This morning, be transferred to visit the famous Tiger Leaping Gorge which is one of the deepest gorges in China. It features for the high mountain, steep and dangerous gorge. After that, drive to visit the First Bend of Yangtze River and enjoy its spectacular landscapes. After the tour drive to the ancient city Lijiang. Our local guide in Lijiang will meet with you at Tiger Leaping Gorge.You will stay in Lijiang for 3 nights.


Meals included: Buffet breakfast, Chinese Lunch.

Hotel: Decent 4-star or 5-star hotel in Lijiang (downtown)

After breakfast, visit the famous Lijiang Ancient Town which is home to the local Naxi Minority people for many generations. The town was inscribed as the world cultural heritage by UNESCO. The visit the famous Black Dragon Pond, where you can get a great photo with the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain View and the pond.You’ll find a Naxi Cultural Center, an elegant white marble bridge, several small temples and pavilions, and a spectacular view of the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, perfectly reflected in the pool’s calm waters. Your day ends at the Shuhe Town, where you’ll have the opportunity to experience the richness of Naxi culture even further. Catch a glimpse of Naxi women in their traditional dress, take some tea and griddlecakes at one of the renowned tea houses of the area, and see if you can spot Naxi falconers practicing an art that has been part of their culture for centuries. The afternoon is left to your leisure, giving you ample opportunity to investigate all of the unique offerings of the Naxi people.


Fantastic Show: Impression of Lijiang

Meals included: Buffet breakfast, Chinese Lunch, Naxi Special Dinner

Hotel: Decent 4-star or 5-star hotel in Lijiang (downtown)

Today, the first stop is high above the Earth’s surface, riding a cable car through the spectral air and up the soaring summit of Yulong Snow Mountain and Yak Meadow, situated more than two-and-a-half miles above the verdant plains below. Marvel at the incredible views over the southern Chinese countryside before returning to lower altitudes to take in fantastic show called “Impression Lijiang.” This spectacular performance is a celebration of the lifestyles and traditions of the Naxi, Yi and Bai people, choreographed by the famous Zhang Yimou and set amidst the spectacular scenery of the mountainside, with Jade Dragon Snow Mountain itself providing the main backdrop. Then head to the Yufeng Tibetan Monastery, set in the scenic foothills of the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain and home to a famous camellia tree that has stood for half a millennia, making it centuries older than the temple itself. An incredible fusion of two separate trees indelibly entwined like life-long lovers, this remarkable specimen is known for its vibrant pink and white flowers, casting a crimson hue when the sun slices through their beautiful blossoms. After that, visit the Baisha Village to meet a Naxi family, and take in the incredible murals on the walls of the town’s temple, which are hundreds of years old and offer incredible insight into the village’s past. Dinner will be served the Lijiang Naxi special meal.


Meals included: Buffet breakfast

Hotel: Decent 4-star or 5-star hotel in Shanghai (close to the Bund)

Today, you are free until be transferred to the airport for the departure flight to Shanghai. Once there, be picked up and transfer to check-in at the hotel.The rest of the day, easy and relax on your own.You will stay at Shanghai for four nights at the local boutique hotel on the Bund. From your room, you can enjoy a great night view of Huangpu River.This afternoon, you can have a free walk on the Bund and Nanjing Road on your own.


Meals included: Buffet breakfast, Special Lunch at Lulu Restaurant

Hotel: Decent 4-star or 5-star hotel in Shanghai (close to the Bund)

After breakfast, start your full day tour to explore the metropolis. Firstly visit the famous Shanghai Museum(closed on Monday), one of the TOP 3 museums in China, which features the large collection of bronze articles and rich collections. It’s a good place to learn the history and culture of China. Then stroll around the romantic place the Bund which is a famous waterfront with 52 various buildings of different architectural styles. You can enjoy a beautiful skyline of the city here.

Lunch will be served with local Shanghai cuisine at the famous LULU Restaurant.

Then visit the famous Yu Garden which is the most famous private garden in Shanghai built in 1559 A.D. It is reputed as the “Stunning Pearl” of Shanghai. Stroll around the close-by bustling Yuyuan Bazaar where you can do some shopping with the little gifts.You will also taste the delicious street food-Long Xiang Baozi (steamed stuffed-bun). After that, stroll around the famous Tianzifang, a very popular site for tourists in Shanghai, which was renovated from the local Stone-Arched House into the trendy boutiques stores, bars, restaurants as well as art studios. Dinner will be on your own expense.


Meals included: Buffet breakfast

This morning drive around Lujiazui Financial Zone which is considered to the “Wall Street of China” as many international banks and financial organizations gathered here.Then visit the New landmark of Shanghai, Shanghai Tower. With the total height of 632m, it is ranked NO.1 tallest building in China. You will take a high speed elevator up the 118 F Observation Hall where you can get a great bird view of the metropolis.

After the tour, transfer to the airport for homeward flight (we suggest you book the flight with departure time after 4:00 pm). End your memorable trip in China.



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    Sep 2025 • Family

    This is the second time we plan a trip with Best Asia Tours and we love their service and attention to detail as well as their willingness to make your trip memorable and anything you want possible. Their planning is impecable and very efficient and if anything is not as you expected they will work to make sure it is. we did a 21 day itinerary for 7 including 2 grandmas back on 2018 and we just went back a couple of weeks ago with our daughter for 12 days and had an awesome time. We are already planning the next one. Zoe and Eric who had help us with the travel planning were both amazing their speed to comeback with the itineraries and changes is impressive and not matter how many times you ask them to look at changes or different hotels etc they are always willing to help with the most wonderful attitude . All the guides we had on the different cities and regions have be incredible . I can not recommend them enough. I have traveled al over the world and they are definitively on the top service of the agencies I had used.

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    The trip was great and our agent performed great. We were pleasantly surprised with how responsive they were and with the trip that they planned. Very professional. A previous agent told us we couldn’t pull off a trip with so many stops but it was not a problem and the pace of the trip was good for us. We don’t like sitting still in one spot for too long. The guides in each city did well and a couple were excellent.

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