From Shanghai: 10-Day Tour to Chongqing, Zhangjiajie & More

Traveling through China’s middle offers an incredible mix of vibrant cities, breathtaking natural wonders, and age-old cultural sites. This 10-day guided tour, organized by FUN CHINA TOURS, promises to show you some of the most iconic sights—think the majestic Yangtze River, the dizzying Glass Bridge, and the towering peaks of Zhangjiajie. While the price of $3,029 per person might seem substantial, it covers a lot: flights, train rides, entrance fees, and comfortable accommodations.

What we particularly appreciate about this experience is how it balances cultural insight with awe-inspiring scenery. You’ll get a taste of lively urban life, quiet water towns, and soaring mountain vistas—all in one trip. However, keep in mind that the itinerary involves quite a bit of walking and travel, which might be tiring for some. That said, it’s perfect for travelers eager for a comprehensive look at China’s highlights with a reliable, guided touch.

This tour is best suited for those who love active sightseeing, are comfortable with moderate walking, and enjoy a mix of city exploration and natural wonder. It’s also great if you prefer traveling in a small group with a knowledgeable guide to help navigate language barriers and logistics.

Key Points

• Diverse itinerary: Combines urban, cultural, and natural sights in China’s middle region.
• Well-organized logistics: Includes flights, trains, and private transport, making travel smooth.
• Highlight activities: Yangtze River cruise, Glass Bridge walk, Tianmen Mountain, and more.
• Authentic experiences: Visit Zhujiajiao Water Town, Fengdu Ghost City, and historical sites.
• Stunning scenery: From water town canals to mountain plateaus and river gorges.
• Group size: Limited to 15 participants for a more personal experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

A Taste of Shanghai’s Charm

The tour kicks off in Shanghai, a city where modern skyscrapers meet historic neighborhoods. Your guide will meet you at the airport, quickly orienting you to the city’s highlights and your hotel. On Day 2, you’ll explore Zhujiajiao Water Town, a quaint canal-lined village often called the “Venice of Shanghai.” Expect peaceful waterways, old stone bridges, and traditional architecture—perfect for those wanting a more relaxed, authentic side of China.

Later, you’ll visit the Helong Art Gallery, the Chenghuang Temple, and Kezhi Garden—each offering a glimpse into Shanghai’s layered past. The afternoon includes a stroll through the French Concession, where tree-lined streets and historic architecture give a European vibe that’s a favorite for many travelers.

Moving to Chongqing and the Yangtze River

A short flight takes you to Chongqing, a city full of contrasts—ultramodern high-rises and historic neighborhoods. Before boarding your Yangtze River Cruise, you’ll stop at Hongyadong, a complex of traditional stilt houses perched over the river, which makes for vivid photos and a lively atmosphere.

The cruise itself is a standout feature. You’ll sail through the Three Gorges—the Qutang, Wu, and Xiling—each offering remarkable views of towering cliffs, winding water, and lush greenery. Many reviews emphasize how stunning these natural formations are, making it a highlight that justifies the trip’s cost.

Exploring the Underworld and Engineering Marvels

On Day 4, you visit Fengdu Ghost City, famously called the “Capital of Hell.” Here, carved statues and temples depict Chinese mythology and the afterlife. It might seem a bit quirky, but it provides a fascinating cultural insight and some excellent photo opportunities.

The next day, you’ll witness the Three Gorges Dam and visit the Three Gorges Project Museum, where exhibits explain the engineering feat that is the largest hydroelectric dam in the world. It’s a reminder of China’s modern achievements alongside its ancient traditions.

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From Water to Mountain: Zhangjiajie

After a high-speed train ride to Changsha, the journey continues to Zhangjiajie, famous for its pillar-like sandstone formations that inspired the landscape for the movie Avatar. The Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon offers a chance to walk across the Glass Bridge, a nerve-wracking yet thrilling experience with incredible views straight down.

Further, you’ll ascend the Bailong Sightseeing Elevator, which offers sweeping views of the surrounding peaks, and explore Tianzishan and Tianmen Mountain. The Glass Walkway atop Tianmen Mountain gives you an adrenaline rush—walking on transparent glass with a sheer drop beneath.

Final Highlights and Reflection

On the last day, you’ll visit Yellow Dragon Cave, known for its impressive stalactites and underground river systems, a perfect way to cap off your adventure before heading back to Shanghai.

Transportation and Group Experience

The tour employs a mix of domestic flights, high-speed trains, and private vehicles, which helps keep the travel time efficient and comfortable. The group is capped at 15 participants, ensuring you’ll have some personal space and a chance to ask questions without feeling lost in a crowd.

The tour is designed for those willing to walk moderately each day, with plenty of opportunities to rest and enjoy the scenery. While the pace can be busy, the variety of activities ensures there’s always something captivating around each corner.

Comfort and Convenience

Your guide, speaking English and Traditional Chinese, will handle logistics, entrance fees, and translations, allowing you to focus on enjoying the sights. Meals are included as per the itinerary, offering opportunities to sample regional cuisine—think spicy Chongqing hotpot or fresh river fish dishes.

Value and Overall Impression

At around $3,029, this tour offers comprehensive coverage of some of China’s most remarkable sites. When you factor in flights, train tickets, entrance fees, and guiding services, it actually represents good value for the convenience and depth of experience provided.

Many reviews mention how smoothly everything runs, with guides being knowledgeable and helpful. The experience combines natural beauty, such as the stunning Three Gorges, with cultural insights like Fengdu Ghost City and water towns—providing a well-rounded picture of China’s diverse appeal.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience suits travelers who want a guided, all-inclusive itinerary that hits major highlights without the stress of planning each step. It’s perfect if you enjoy scenic landscapes, historical sites, and cultural stories. However, it’s not ideal for anyone with mobility issues or who prefers a very relaxed pace, due to the amount of walking and travel involved.

The Sum Up

This 10-day tour offers a robust introduction to China’s middle region, blending natural wonders with cultural gems. The carefully curated stops, from water towns to mountain peaks, ensure you experience the country’s diversity firsthand. It’s a trip designed for curious travelers who are eager for authentic sights, panoramic views, and engaging stories.

While it’s a somewhat active itinerary, the thoughtful logistics and small group size mean you’ll experience China comfortably and intimately. The inclusion of flights, trains, and entrance fees simplifies planning, making it a real value for those wanting a comprehensive tour without the hassle.

Ultimately, this journey is an excellent choice for those who want to see China’s highlights with a knowledgeable guide, plenty of picture-worthy moments, and a good balance of city, water, and mountain scenes. If you’re eager to explore China’s iconic landscapes and cultural sites without the stress of logistics, this tour will serve you well.

FAQ

What’s included in the tour?
The tour covers professional guides, hotel pickup and drop-off, entrance fees, meals as scheduled, domestic flights, high-speed train tickets, and private transportation.

Is there any age restriction?
The tour is not suitable for pregnant women, people with back problems, wheelchair users, or those with vertigo, mainly due to walking and heights involved.

How much walking should I expect?
A moderate amount of walking is involved, especially on sites like Tianmen Mountain, the Glass Bridge, and in water towns. Comfortable shoes are recommended.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, warm clothing, a hat, camera, sunscreen, and water. The weather can vary, so be prepared for rain or shine.

Are meals included?
Yes, meals are provided as per the itinerary, giving you a taste of regional cuisine but not covering personal expenses outside the planned schedule.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible if your plans change.

What languages are guides available in?
The guides speak both English and Traditional Chinese, helping bridge the language gap and making the experience accessible.

This 10-day journey through China offers a well-balanced mix of scenery, culture, and comfort, perfect for travelers wanting a comprehensive, guided experience—one filled with stunning views and memorable moments.

You can check availability for your dates here: