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

If you’re dreaming of walking through ancient palaces, marveling at world-famous archaeological sites, and soaking in stunning landscapes—all wrapped into one comprehensive journey—this 11-day Top Cities Tour with Cruise and Terracotta from FUN CHINA TOURS might just be your perfect trip. Designed for curious travelers eager to experience both the historical and modern sides of China, this tour promises a blend of highlights, local flavor, and authentic moments.

What we especially like about this tour is its well-balanced itinerary, which combines iconic sights like the Forbidden City and the Terracotta Army with lesser-known gems such as rural villages and local family visits. Plus, the inclusion of a Li River cruise and an ascent of the Shanghai Tower offers views and experiences that leave a lasting impression.

That said, a potential consideration is the pace—11 days packed with activities means you’ll be on the move quite a bit. It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy a full schedule and don’t mind some physical walking. Ideal for those who want a rundown of China’s diverse offerings without the hassle of planning each detail themselves, this tour appeals to history lovers, scenery seekers, and cultural explorers alike.

Key Points

• Authentic Experiences: Visit lesser-touristy villages and meet local families to see everyday rural life.
• Iconic Landmarks: Explore the Forbidden City, Terracotta Army, Li River, and Shanghai Tower.
• Cultural Immersion: Participate in a terracotta warrior-making activity and enjoy a home-cooked meal with a Yao family.
• Stunning Scenery: Enjoy breathtaking views from the Longji Rice Terraces and the Li River cruise.
• Comfort and Convenience: Travel in a private, air-conditioned vehicle with a knowledgeable guide, and small group intimacy.
• Flexible Planning: Includes a half-day customized experience to tailor part of your adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the 11-Day Journey

Days 1-4: Walking Through China’s Royal Past in Beijing

Your adventure begins in Beijing, where the Forbidden City reveals details often missed by typical tours. Beyond just wandering through grand halls, you’ll hear stories about figures seldom highlighted in standard guides—perhaps some mischievous court intrigue or lesser-known anecdotes about China’s imperial family. The tour’s approach of emphasizing hidden stories makes a visit here more personal and engaging.

These initial days set a tone of discovery, blending history with modernity as you notice how the city balances its ancient roots with contemporary skyscrapers. The hotel stays are generally comfortable, and the guided walks are paced for those with moderate fitness levels.

Days 5-6: Secrets of the Terracotta Army and Hands-On Crafting

Next, we head to Xi’an, home to the Terracotta Army—an archaeological wonder that continues to fascinate visitors. The tour not only includes a visit to see the life-size warriors, but a local guide also shares insights into ancient craftsmanship and the secrets kept by artisans of the past.

A highlight here is the terracotta warrior-making activity, which isn’t just a quick souvenir but an educational look into ancient techniques. The tour also ventures into a traditional cave dwelling, a chance to see how people lived centuries ago, adding depth to your understanding of Chinese rural life.

Days 7-9: Nature’s Art at the Li River and Longji Rice Terraces

Here, the experience shifts to nature’s grandeur. The Li River cruise is a scenic highlight, with towering karst formations and quaint villages drifting by—perfect for photos and quiet reflection. The guide points out notable sights, including the one engraved on the RMB20 note, making it a fun fact you can impress friends with later.

Following the river, the tour takes you to the Longji Rice Terraces, often described as an awe-inspiring feat of human ingenuity. Standing atop the terraces, you’ll understand how centuries of effort have transformed mountain slopes into lush, productive farmland. Visiting a Yao minority family enriches this experience; they’ll invite you into their home for lunch and demonstrate traditional rice stuffing and bamboo oil tea brewing. It’s a rare chance to see rural China’s centuries-old lifestyle firsthand.

The exploration of less touristy villages introduces a quieter, more authentic side of rural life, away from crowded attractions. You’ll see farmers at work, local crafts, and perhaps even pick up some simple Chinese phrases from friendly villagers.

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Days 10-11: Modern Marvels and Hidden Histories in Shanghai

Finally, the tour moves to Shanghai, the city where old meets new in a striking skyline. Walking the Bund reveals stories of China’s 1920s golden age, but the tour’s focus on lesser-known stories and original brickwork makes the experience feel intimate and personal.

A highlight is the Shanghai Tower visit, where you’ll ascend one of the tallest buildings in the world for panoramic views that stretch for miles. It’s a spectacular way to conclude your trip—seeing China’s future alongside its past.

The half-day customized experience adds a flexible ending—whether you want to relax, explore trendy neighborhoods, or indulge in local arts or shopping. This part offers a chance to tailor the trip to your preferences, making it more than just a sightseeing tour.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Transportation and Group Size: Traveling in a private, air-conditioned vehicle with large windows ensures comfort and excellent views. The small group size—limited to 15 participants—means you’ll have more personalized attention and opportunities for meaningful interactions.

Guides and Local Insights: With English-speaking guides providing rich commentary, you’ll not only see the sights but understand their stories and significance. The focus on stories that are not in every history book adds depth to the experience.

Authentic Encounters: Visiting rural villages, a Yao family, and traditional cave dwellings means you’ll get a glimpse of everyday life in China—not just the tourist highlights. These moments are where many travelers find their most memorable experiences.

Activities and Cultural Engagement: Making your own Terracotta warriors and sharing a meal with a local family give you hands-on experiences that elevate the trip beyond passive sightseeing.

Cost and Value: Priced at $3,899 per person, this tour includes most activities, meals, and accommodations—offering a comprehensive package that covers the highlights without hidden extras. It’s a good value considering the diversity of experiences and logistics handled for you.

Practical Details and Tips

What to Bring: Comfortable walking shoes are essential—they’ll be needed for exploring palaces, villages, and terraces. A camera is a must to capture the stunning landscapes and cityscapes. Weather can vary, so bring appropriate clothing, and don’t forget water to stay hydrated.

Group and Travel Style: The small group setting means more interaction and a relaxed pace. The tour is not suitable for children under 5 or travelers with mobility concerns, as some activities involve moderate physical effort.

Booking and Flexibility: With a cancel up to 24 hours in advance policy and the option to reserve now and pay later, booking is flexible and low-stress. This makes it easier to plan your trip around other commitments.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This journey appeals most to travelers who love a combination of history, scenery, and culture. If you’re curious about China’s imperial past, marvel at natural landscapes, and want genuine, less commercialized experiences, this tour fits the bill.

It’s suited for those who appreciate small-group travel and are comfortable with a packed itinerary. Since some activities involve walking and moderate physical effort, it’s best for healthy, moderate fitness-level travelers. If you prefer a relaxed, slow-paced vacation, this might be too busy, but if you thrive on variety and discovery, you’ll find plenty to love.

The Sum Up

This 11-day China tour offers a thoughtfully curated experience that balances the iconic with the authentic. From the grand halls of Beijing’s Forbidden City to the peaceful terraces of Longji, and from the archaeological mystery of the Terracotta Army to the towering skyline of Shanghai, it covers a broad spectrum.

What makes it especially appealing is the emphasis on genuine encounters—meeting local families, exploring lesser-known villages, and participating in hands-on activities—rather than just ticking off tourist spots. The stunning scenery along the Li River and rice terraces ensures you’ll leave with memorable visuals as well as stories to tell.

While the pace is brisk, the comprehensive nature of this trip makes it a fantastic choice for travelers eager to see China in its full variety—history, landscapes, modern marvels, and local life—wrapped into one memorable package.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for travelers with mobility issues?
No, the tour involves activities and walking that may not be suitable for those with mobility impairments. Moderate physical fitness is recommended.

What is included in the price?
Most activities, guided tours, meals, hotel accommodations, and transportation in a private, air-conditioned vehicle are included. The tour also offers a terracotta warrior-making experience and a visit to a traditional cave dwelling.

How many people are in each group?
The tour is limited to small groups of up to 15 participants, allowing for more personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere.

What should I bring on the tour?
Comfortable walking shoes, a camera, water, weather-appropriate clothing, and your passport for hotel check-ins.

Can I cancel or reschedule easily?
Yes, cancellations are accepted up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. You can also reserve now and pay later for flexibility.

Are the activities suitable for children?
The tour is not suitable for children under 5 years old. The physical activities and pace might be challenging for younger children.

What is the quality of the accommodations?
While not specified in detail, the tour includes hotel stays and guided transportation, suggesting a focus on comfort and convenience.

Is there free time during the tour?
The itinerary includes a half-day customizable experience, allowing some flexibility to relax or explore according to personal preference.

How do I prepare for the weather?
Check local forecasts before packing; layers are recommended since conditions can vary between cities and outdoor sites.

This 11-day China adventure stands out as a journey that strikes a balance between famous sights and authentic moments. It’s perfect for travelers eager to experience China’s grand narratives and daily life without feeling rushed or overwhelmed. Whether you’re a history buff, landscape lover, or cultural explorer, this tour promises meaningful discoveries and stunning visuals at every turn.

You can check availability for your dates here: