Essential China

10 days · Beijing to Shanghai

Essential China

Imperial Beijing, ancient Xi'an, Guilin's Li River, and contemporary Shanghai — the classic first journey through China.

From USD 1,870 / person

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No obligation · Reply from a real person

Designed in China

Signature Moments

People, places and moments that make the journey memorable.

Mutianyu Great Wall

Terracotta Warriors

Li River Cruise

The Bund at Night

Route & Day-by-Day Plan

A route that makes sense geographically and feels comfortable day by day.

Interactive route map

Map view shows day-by-day geography — your designer shares a live version with your proposal.

Day 1

Beijing Arrival

Day 2

Forbidden City, Jingshan Park & Summer Palace

Day 3

Mutianyu Great Wall

Day 4

High-speed Train to Xi'an

Day 5

Terracotta Warriors & Ancient City Wall

Day 6

Fly to Guilin · Elephant Trunk Hill

Day 7

Li River Cruise & Yangshuo Countryside

Day 8

Guilin to Shanghai

Day 9

Shanghai Tower, Yu Garden & The Bund

Day 10

Shanghai Departure

Hotels, Pace & Inclusions

Hotel standard, daily rhythm, and what is — and is not — in your quote.

Hotel standard

4–5 star hotels in central districts; boutique upgrades available in each city.

Daily pace

Active but balanced — landmark mornings, relaxed afternoons, and one free evening per city.

Included

  • Private English-speaking guide throughout
  • Comfortable vehicle, driver, and high-speed rail in business class where noted
  • Hand-picked hotels with breakfast
  • Timed entry tickets to major sites — no generic queue lines
  • 24/7 operations support in English and Chinese

Not included

  • International flights and visa fees
  • Lunches and dinners unless noted with a hosted experience
  • Personal expenses, optional gratuities, and travel insurance

Mobility & dietary needs: Tell us about mobility, dietary, or sensory needs — we adjust routes, hotels, and guides before you confirm.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can't find your answer?

Yes — every ROOYEE journey is private. We share a draft itinerary first, then adjust hotels, driving days, and activity order until the pace feels right.

Customize this journey with a designer.

Adjust hotels, experiences and daily rhythm before you confirm.

Customize This Journey

What you can expect

Clear standards from enquiry to on-trip support.

  • A route shaped around your priorities
  • Clear inclusions and practical advice
  • Local delivery with on-trip support
View service standards →

Almost there

Customize this journey with a designer.

Adjust hotels, experiences and daily rhythm before you confirm.

Customize This Journey