14-Day Chengdu-Mount Emei-Chongqing-Yichang-Shanghai Tour
Embark on a captivating 14-day journey through Sichuan, the Yangtze River, and Shanghai. Begin in Chengdu, home to the beloved Giant Pandas, rich history, and vibrant culture. Continue to Chongqing, where you’ll set sail on a luxurious Yangtze River cruise, gliding through the iconic Three Gorges, one of the world’s most stunning natural wonders. After disembarking in Yichang, conclude your adventure in Shanghai, a dynamic city blending tradition and modernity. This itinerary combines cultural treasures, breathtaking landscapes, and the ultimate in relaxation and exploration.
Itinerary
Our thoughtfully planned 14-day China tour ensures you make the most of your time in China's most iconic cities, offering rich cultural experiences that will leave a lasting impression:
Day 1: Arrival in Chengdu – Relax and Settle In
Arrive in Chengdu, where you'll be greeted by your guide at the airport and transferred to your hotel. After settling in, spend the day acclimating to the time zone and surroundings at your leisure, recovering from your travels. In the evening, enjoy a relaxing dinner featuring Chengdu local specialties. If you're feeling up for it, take a stroll through Kuanzhai Xiangzi (Wide and Narrow Alleys), taking in Chengdu's lively atmosphere.
- Meals: Dinner
- Transportation: Private transfer to the hotel
Day 2: Chengdu’s Panda Experience and Ancient Streets
After a relaxing breakfast, head to the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding to witness the world-renowned conservation efforts for the giant panda. See the pandas in their natural habitat and learn about the work being done to protect these adorable creatures. In the afternoon, visit Jinli Ancient Street and Wuhou Shrine, where you can explore traditional architecture, vibrant street life, and sample local snacks. End the day with a memorable Sichuan hot pot dinner, the locals' favorite.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Transportation: Private vehicle with professional driver
Day 3: Explore Leshan Giant Buddha
Drive to Leshan from Chengdu to see the stunning Leshan Giant Buddha, the largest stone Buddha statue in the world. For lunch, explore Leshan’s famous food streets, such as Zhanggongqiao or Jiaxing Road, and savor local delicacies like the crispy, tender sweet-skinned duck and the flavorful boboji skewers. Afterward, stroll along Jiadingfang Ancient Street, a riverside walkway with charming antique-style architecture and a glimpse into local culture. Then take a high-speed train to Mount Emei, where you’ll check into a comfortable hotel to relax and prepare for the next day’s adventures.
- Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
- Transportation: Private vehicle with professional driver
Day 4: Full Day in Mount Emei – Temples and Scenic Views
Begin your day with a visit to Mount Emei’s Baoguo Temple, the mountain’s oldest temple, known for its majestic architecture and rich history, followed by the serene and tranquil Fuhu Temple. Enjoy a scenic hike through lush forests, encountering playful monkeys along the way, before taking a cable car to the Golden Summit. From the summit, marvel at the breathtaking mountain vistas and the striking Four-faced Samantabhadra Golden Statue. In the evening, conclude your Mount Emei adventure with a high-speed train to Chongqing, the mountain city.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Transportation: High-speed train to Chongqing, private vehicle with professional driver
Day 5: Chengdu to Chongqing – Explore the City
Begin your exploration of this dynamic city with a visit to Ciqikou Ancient Town, where you can wander through traditional alleys and shops. Later, explore the Three Gorges Museum to learn about the river’s historical significance. In the evening, enjoy a dinner featuring Chongqing hot pot, known for its intense spice and rich flavors. Take time to explore the Hongyadong Cave, a stilted riverside architecture complex built into the mountainside, with restaurants, shops, and stunning views of the Yangtze River.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Transportation: Private vehicle with professional driver
Day 6: Chongqing – Yangtze River Cruise Embarkation
In the morning, explore Jiefangbei Pedestrian Street, a bustling shopping district filled with local goods and snacks. After lunch, transfer to the dock and board your luxurious Yangtze River Cruise, and settle into your comfortable suite. Watch the sunset on the river as you set sail, with a welcome dinner and an introduction to the cruise.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Transportation: Private transfer to the cruise port
Day 7: Three Gorges – Fengdu Ghost City
As your cruise sails through the Three Gorges, disembark at Fengdu Ghost City, a fascinating complex of temples and shrines dedicated to the afterlife. Explore the eerie statues, ancient architecture, and learn about the mythology of ghosts in Chinese culture. Return to the ship for a relaxing afternoon on board, enjoying the stunning views of the river and surrounding cliffs.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Transportation: Yangtze River cruise
Day 8: Shennv Stream & White Emperor City
This morning, cruise through the Shennv Stream, and enjoy a boat ride along this serene and scenic waterway, surrounded by lush landscapes. Later, visit White Emperor City, perched above the river with its history and panoramic views. Explore the ancient temples and statues before returning to your ship for the evening.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Transportation: Yangtze River cruise
Day 9: Yangtze River – Scenic Gorges and Relaxation
Enjoy a relaxing day on the river as you cruise through the Qutang Gorge and Wu Gorge, two of the most dramatic and scenic parts of the Yangtze River. Learn about the geography and natural history of the area from your guide. Participate in optional activities on board, such as Tai Chi, cultural lectures, or watching a traditional performance.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Transportation: Yangtze River cruise
Day 10: Disembark at Yichang – Visit the Three Gorges Dam
Disembark the cruise at Yichang, and visit the Three Gorges Dam, one of the largest hydroelectric power projects in the world. Take a guided tour of the dam and learn about its engineering marvels and significance to China. Afterward, take a flight to Shanghai, where you’ll spend the evening at leisure.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Transportation: Private transfer to Yichang airport, flight to Shanghai, private vehicle with professional driver
Day 11: Explore Shanghai – Classic Attractions
Begin your exploration of Shanghai with a visit to Yu Garden, a stunning classical Chinese garden filled with pavilions, ponds, and rockeries. Next, head to The Bund, Shanghai’s iconic waterfront, where you’ll enjoy views of the city’s futuristic skyline. In the evening, visit the Shanghai Tower for a bird’s-eye view of the city at the sun sets in the horizon. Enjoy an authentic Shanghainese dinner at a gourmet restaurant.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Transportation: Private vehicle with professional driver
Day 12: Shanghai Museums and Old Town
Explore Shanghai Museum to see its impressive collection of ancient Chinese art, including calligraphy, jade, and bronze. Then head to Old Shanghai, where you can explore ancient temples, narrow streets, and historic sites. Spend the evening shopping at the quaint cafes and shops of the French Concession area, and exploring the bustling Xintiandi district.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Transportation: Private vehicle with professional driver
Day 13: Day Trip to Suzhou – Classical Gardens
Take a day trip to Suzhou, known for its classical gardens, ancient pagodas, and tranquil waterway canals. Visit the UNESCO-listed Classical Gardens of Suzhou, including Humble Administrator's Garden and Lingering Garden. Take a boat ride along the canals and enjoy lunch at a local Suzhou-style restaurant before returning to Shanghai in the evening.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Transportation: Private vehicle with professional driver
Day 14: Shanghai – Final Exploration and Departure
On your final day, enjoy a leisurely breakfast before heading out for some last-minute shopping or sightseeing. Depending on your departure time, you might have some time to visit the shops of Tianzifang, a charming area of boutique shops and galleries, or the cosmopolitan and modern Nanjing Road. Afterward, you’ll be transferred to the airport or railway station for your departure.
- Meals: Breakfast
- Transportation: Private transfer to airport or railway station
Accommodations
You may choose 5-star or 4-star accommodations for your journey. The following list is a sample of hotels you may stay in. An alternative hotel of similar grade may be chosen if the following hotels are not available. All of our accommodations are carefully selected for comfort and convenience.
5-Star Hotels List:
- Chengdu
- Grand Hyatt Chengdu
- Shangri-La Hotel Chengdu
- Chongqing
- Hyatt Regency Chongqing Hotel
- Sheraton Chongqing Hotel
- Yangtze River Cruises
- Century Legend
- Victoria Jenna
- Yangtze Gold 8
- Yichang
- Yichang A'er Baogeli Hotel
- Sheraton Yichang Hotel
- Shanghai
- Hilton Shanghai City Center
- Shanghai Marriott Marquis City Centre
4-Star Hotels List:
- Chengdu
- Chengdu Taihe International Hotel
- Mercure Chengdu Chunxi Taikoo Li
- Chongqing
- Glenview ITC Plaza Chongqing
- Hilton Chongqing
- Yichang
- Holiday Inn Express Yichang Changjiang
- Jiuzhou Fangyuan Hotel(Yichang Wanda Binjiang Store)
- Yangtze River Cruises
- Yangtze Princess
- Victoria Sophia
- Century Sun
- Shanghai
- Grand Central Hotel Shanghai
- Novotel Shanghai Atlantis
Inclusion/Exclusion
- What's Included:
- Panda Tourism's expert travel director and skilled professional driver
- Luxury 5-stars hotels with proven quality or comfortable high-end 4-stars hotels
- Inclusive of porterage and restaurant gratuities
- All hotel service charges, tips, and local taxes covered
- Daily breakfasts and up to half of your evening meals included
- Iconic sightseeing highlights plus unexpected extras
- Audio headsets for special destination tours
- Private premium transportation coach/vehicle
- Gratuities for guides and drivers
- Optional experiences and plenty of leisure time
- Flights and train rides within China included
- What's Not Included:
- International flights to and from China
- China visa fees
