ANCIENT CHINA AND THE AVATAR MOUNTAINS
Price per person from US$2,969

ANCIENT CHINA AND THE AVATAR MOUNTAINS

From
US$2,969
From
US$2,969

Description

Experience a side of China you never imagined: imperial history, cinematic landscapes, and cities that surprise at every turn. Explore Beijing, Xi’an, Guilin, Yangshuo, Zhangjiajie, and Shanghai; walk the Great Wall, marvel at the Terracotta Warriors, and cruise through the scenery of the Li River. The adventure continues in Zhangjiajie, home to the breathtaking "Avatar Hallelujah Mountains," the Bailong Elevator, and Tianmen Mountain with its dizzying glass walkways. Enjoy 12 days of culture, nature, adventure, and modernity on one of China’s most spectacular journeys.

Visiting

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Trip summary
2 Adults
Nights 11
This idea includes
Destinations 6
Accommodations 11

DAY 1 | BEIJING

Arrival at Beijing Airport, where a car will pick you up and transfer you to your hotel for check-in. Beijing is a vibrant blend of ancient history and modern culture, home to iconic landmarks.

Overnight in Beijing.

DAY 2 | BEIJING (D + C)

(Tiananmen Square – Forbidden City – Temple of Heaven – Tea House)

Start the day at Tiananmen Square, one of the world's largest public squares and a symbol of modern China. Afterward, take a walking tour of the magnificent Forbidden City—once the imperial palace of the Ming and Qing dynasties—featuring majestic halls and ancient courtyards.

Next, visit the Temple of Heaven, where emperors once prayed for bountiful harvests; it is an impressive example of Ming architecture and spiritual harmony. Afterward, experience traditional tea culture at a local tea house, where you will learn about Chinese tea rituals and sample authentic brews. The day's itinerary concludes with a return to the hotel. Overnight in Beijing.

  • Included activity: Visit to a local family in a *hutong*, including a hands-on paper-cutting class.
  • Dinner: Peking Duck.

DAY 3 | BEIJING (B + A)

Juyongguan Great Wall – Summer Palace – Pearl Factory

Today, embark on a journey through breathtaking scenery to the Juyongguan Great Wall, a UNESCO World Heritage site and a testament to the architectural splendor of ancient China. Next, visit the Summer Palace—the former royal residence of the Qing emperors—renowned for its elegant pavilions and dreamlike lake views.

Conclude the day with a cultural visit to a traditional pearl factory, where you will learn about the art of pearl cultivation and its role in Chinese heritage. Overnight in Beijing.

  • Lunch: Beijing Zhajiang noodles.
  • Optional: Acrobatic show at the Red Theater.

DAY 4 | BEIJING – XI’AN BY TRAIN (B)

Breakfast at the hotel. Today, we will head to the station and board a high-speed train to Xi’an, one of China’s most historic cities.

Traveling on China’s advanced high-speed train is a comfortable and efficient way to experience the country's modern infrastructure, as it reaches speeds of up to 350 km/h while traversing diverse landscapes. Upon arrival, your guide and driver in Xi’an will meet you and take you to your hotel to rest. Overnight in Xi’an.

DAY 5 | XI’AN (D + C)

Terracotta Warriors – Small Wild Goose Pagoda – Muslim Quarter – City Wall

Start the day with a visit to the world-famous Terracotta Warriors—often called the Eighth Wonder of the World—where thousands of life-sized soldiers guard the tomb of China’s first emperor. Next, we will visit the Small Wild Goose Pagoda, an elegant Tang Dynasty relic that reflects ancient Buddhist architecture. Afterward, we will explore the bustling Muslim Quarter, a lively area filled with local snacks, cultural charm, and vibrant street scenes. Before dinner, you can admire the ancient City Wall from the outside—an imposing structure that once protected the heart of Xi’an. Overnight in Xi’an.

  • Included activity: Chinese shadow puppetry show at the Gao Family Mansion.
  • Dinner: Chinese dumpling banquet.
  • Optional: Tang Dynasty Show.

DAY 6 | XI’AN – GUILIN BY PLANE (D)

Breakfast at the hotel. Today, we will head to the airport and take a flight from Xi’an to Guilin, a city renowned for its stunning karst landscapes and serene natural beauty.

Famed for boasting “the finest mountains and rivers in the world,” Guilin offers a perfect nature getaway with its limestone peaks, winding rivers, and charming rural scenery. Overnight stay in Guilin.

DAY 7 | GUILIN – YANGSHUO (B)

Yangshuo – Li River at Fuli – Tai Chi Class

Breakfast at the hotel and transfer to the Yangshuo area. Relax in the beautiful countryside and immerse yourself in a timeless landscape. Enjoy a 90-minute cruise on the Li River near Fuli to admire the river's highlights. Ranked by *National Geographic* magazine as one of the world's top ten water wonders, the Li River resembles an emerald ribbon winding through thousands of karst peaks. Overnight in Guilin.

  • Included activity: Tai Chi class in Yangshuo led by a local master.
  • Optional: Four Lakes Cruise.

DAY 8 | GUILIN – ZHANGJIAJIE BY TRAIN (D)

In the morning, we will head to the train station to catch the high-speed train to Zhangjiajie.

Relax and enjoy the mountain and river views from the window. Upon arrival, our guide and driver in Zhangjiajie will meet you and take you to your hotel to rest. Overnight in Zhangjiajie.

DAY 9 | ZHANGJIAJIE (D)

(Zhangjiajie National Forest Park – Yuanjiajie – Tianzi Mountain – Bailong Elevator)

Spend the day exploring Zhangjiajie National Forest Park. Today, immerse yourself in the heart of the park: Yuanjiajie and Tianzi Mountain.

Marvel at the unique pillar-like formations, sculpted by time and erosion. Take a 30-minute bus ride to the Bailong Elevator for a thrilling 335-meter ascent to the summit of Yuanjiajie. Once there, explore the "No. 1 Bridge in the World" and gaze upon the Hallelujah Mountains, made famous by the movie *Avatar*. Finally, descend by cable car and return to your hotel to rest after the day's activities. Overnight in Zhangjiajie.

DAY 10 | ZHANGJIAJIE – SHANGHAI BY PLANE (D) – FLIGHT INCLUDED

(Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon – Glass Bridge – Tianmen Mountain – Tianmen Cave)

Today, we begin by experiencing the majesty of Tianmen Mountain, the towering heart of Zhangjiajie. This impressive peak offers unparalleled views of ancient trees, spectacular karst formations, and scenic roads carved into the cliffs.

Ascend to the area's highest peak via the world's longest cable car—a thrilling 30-minute journey offering panoramic city views and breathtaking landscapes. Afterward, walk along the cliffside glass skywalk and descend the seven-level escalator to visit the iconic Tianmen Cave. Finally, we will head to the airport for a flight from Zhangjiajie to Shanghai. Overnight in Shanghai.

DAY 11 | SHANGHAI (B + D)

(Jade Buddha Temple – Yuyuan Garden – Silk Factory)

Today, we will visit the Jade Buddha Temple, a tranquil sanctuary in the heart of the city that houses exquisite jade Buddha statues, attracting both the faithful and visitors alike. Afterward, we will head to Yuyuan Garden—a classic Chinese garden featuring elegant pavilions, winding paths, and delicate rockeries—offering a glimpse into traditional Jiangnan design and lifestyle.

Later, enjoy a cultural stop at a local silk factory, where you can learn about the history of Chinese silk production and admire the craftsmanship behind this prized fabric. We then conclude the day's itinerary and return to the hotel. Overnight in Shanghai.

  • Dinner: Shanghai-style *Xiaolongbao* (soup dumplings).
  • Optional Program 1: TV Tower observation deck (second sphere).
  • Optional Program 2: Huangpu River cruise.

DAY 12 | RETURN HOME

Today we will head to the airport and take the flight back home.

Guide languages

Spanish
Day 1: Beijing
Day 2: Beijing
Day 3: Beijing
Day 4: Beijing, Xi'an
Day 5: Xi'an
Day 6: Xi'an, Guilin
Day 7: Guilin, Yangshuo
Day 8: Yangshuo, Guilin, Zhangjiajie
Day 9: Zhangjiajie
Day 10: Zhangjiajie, Shanghai
Day 11: Shanghai
Day 12: Shanghai
  • 3 nights in Beijing
  • 2 nights in Xi’an
  • 2 nights in Guilin
  • 2 nights in Zhangjiajie
  • 2 nights in Shanghai
  • Daily breakfast
  • Arrival, departure, and inter-hotel/airport/station transfers as per the itinerary.
  • High-speed train from Beijing to Xi’an.
  • Domestic flight from Xi’an to Guilin.
  • Air taxes
  • Express train from Guilin to Zhangjiajie.
  • Domestic flight from Zhangjiajie to Shanghai.
  • 90-minute Li River cruise to Fuli Pass.
  • Transfers and tours in air-conditioned vehicles.
  • Local guides during sightseeing tours.
  • Entrance fees to the tourist sites listed in the itinerary.
  • Visit to a local family in a *hutong* (traditional alleyway) with a hands-on paper-cutting class.
  • Chinese shadow puppetry show at the Gao Family Mansion.
  • Tai Chi class in Yangshuo led by a local master.
  • Ascent via the Bailong Elevator and descent by cable car in Zhangjiajie.
  • Cable car ride up Tianmen Mountain and access to the glass skywalk.
  • Peking Duck dinner.
  • Beijing *Zhajiang* (soybean paste) noodles lunch.
  • Chinese dumpling banquet dinner in Xi’an.
  • Shanghai-style *Xiaolongbao* (soup dumpling) dinner.
  • Medical assistance coverage (up to age 70) with USD 40,000 coverage for illness or accident (travelers aged 71–84 and 85+ must pay a supplement for medical coverage and are ineligible for the trip cancellation upgrade; please consult your travel advisor).
  • Tipping is customary when traveling in China; hard work and effort should be acknowledged. For guides and drivers: USD 8 per person per day. For hotel bellhops: USD 2 per bag for handling luggage.
  • International and/or domestic flights.
  • Excess baggage fees.
  • Visa processing (if applicable).
  • Payment processing fees.
  • Personal expenses.
  • Any services not specified.
  • Additional transfers for early arrival in China or departure after the scheduled date.
  • Optional excursions.
  • Hotel surcharges for early check-in or late check-out.
  • Flight seat selection: requesting specific seats may incur an additional cost, determined directly by the airline.

Possible accommodations

5 accommodations

IMPORTANTS NOTES

RATES

  • Rates valid until December 27, 2027
  • Rates subject to change without prior notice – subject to availability – limited space
  • Prices fluctuate constantly; we recommend verifying them and not relying on this document as final.

CHILD POLICIES

  • 80% of the total price will be charged per child (under 12 years old) occupying a bed.
  • 60% of the total price will be charged per child (under 12 years old) not occupying a bed.
  • Children over 12 years old = same price as adults.
  • For infants under 2 years old, the cost of the domestic flight will be charged; the price will be based on the infant airfare established in the program.

RESTRICTED DATES:

  • May 1–3, 2027; September 25 – October 8, 2027 (China National Day)
  • January 25–31, 2028 (Chinese New Year)

Triple rooms: please check availability with your travel agent.

HOTELS

  • This is a list of the hotels most frequently used on this tour. It is provided for reference purposes only; passengers may be accommodated in similar or alternative establishments of the same category.
  • Double and twin rooms. Most hotels have more twin rooms (two single beds) than double rooms (one large bed); therefore, we cannot guarantee that all clients will receive a room with a king-size bed. Room allocation is subject to availability.
  • Triple rooms. These consist of a double/twin room plus a rollaway bed. Rollaway beds are smaller than standard beds, typically 0.9 to 1.1 meters wide. Please manage guests' expectations regarding this prior to travel.
  • Most hotels in China feature central air conditioning. This system operates during winter and summer; however, during the transitional seasons of spring and autumn, the hotel decides whether to activate it based on daily weather conditions—a matter beyond our control. Some hotels may provide a fan upon request.
  • Hotel check-in and check-out. Standard check-in is after 3:00 PM, and check-out is before 12:00 PM.

OPTIONAL EXCURSIONS

Suggested visits or tours listed in the itinerary are offered by our local operator and can be purchased either in advance or on-site. However, if passengers choose to participate in these activities, they should not book them through a different operator, as tour schedules may vary. The guide has full authority to alter the order of scheduled visits for logistical, operational, or weather-related reasons, while still ensuring all contracted services are provided.

We accept no responsibility for services booked through other companies.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS FOR CHINA

  • Complete vaccination schedule
  • Yellow fever vaccine: the vaccine must be administered at least 10 days prior to travel.
  • Travelers over the age of 60 must present a medical certificate for travel.

Note: If you have not yet received the vaccine, please note that it must be administered at least 15 days before your trip.

VISA FOR CHINA

  • Panamanian citizens holding ordinary passports must obtain a tourist visa in advance to enter mainland China. Travelers must complete the application and submit the required documentation to the Embassy of the People's Republic of China in Panama. Requirements, costs, and procedures are subject to change; we recommend verifying them directly prior to travel.

Official information and requirements: Embassy of China in Panama

INCLUDED CULINARY EXPERIENCES

  • Beijing | Peking Duck Banquet. A Peking roast duck meal is a culinary celebration: the duck—with its crispy, glossy skin—is carved tableside and served with delicate pancakes, sweet bean sauce, and fresh garnishes for an authentic and unforgettable feast.
  • Beijing | Zhajiang Noodle Lunch. Enjoy a traditional Beijing Zhajiang noodle dish at a Michelin-recommended restaurant specializing in authentic, old-Beijing-style "fried sauce" noodles; chewy noodles tossed in a savory pork sauce and topped with fresh vegetables, capturing the city's authentic flavor.
  • Xi’an | Xi’an Dumpling Banquet. The Xi'an Dumpling Feast—a time-honored culinary treasure—features over 100 exquisitely shaped dumplings, ranging from floral to animal designs. Bursting with rich flavors, they blend craftsmanship and tradition into a memorable dining experience.
  • Shanghai | Shanghai’s signature *xiaolongbao*. A classic local delicacy, these delicate soup-filled dumplings feature thin wrappers and a savory, broth-infused filling. Diners delight in their juicy texture and fresh umami flavor, making for an iconic local bite and an unforgettable gourmet experience.

TRIP NOTES

  • Travel documents are issued 8 days prior to departure.
  • This itinerary is subject to change due to road conditions, weather, unforeseen circumstances, or availability at the time of booking.
  • Departures are guaranteed for groups of 2 or more people; passport copies are required to confirm the booking.
  • Booking deadline: Reservations must be made at least 30 days prior to departure.
  • Confirmation and availability: All bookings are subject to confirmation and availability at the time of processing.
  • Passport copies and inbound/outbound flight details are required at the time of booking; these must be provided no later than 30 days before arrival to secure internal flights and high-speed train tickets. Failure to do so may result in cancellation of the service without liability on our part.
  • Optional excursions can be booked at the time of reservation or locally in China with a guide.
  • Our private guide accompanies you on all optional excursions; these are not outsourced to third parties.
  • For shows where the number of participants is less than half the group size, the booking will be confirmed, but we reserve the right to use Uber for transfers (including guide services).
  • For excursions, we arrange private transfers and guide services. Vehicle size depends on the number of participants. If there is only one participant, the price is 1.5 times the listed rate.
  • Workshops and traditional shops: Visits to traditional shops last approximately 30–40 minutes, including a 15–20 minute explanation; these visits cannot be cancelled.
  • Most hotels in China have central air conditioning. It operates during winter and summer; however, during the transitional seasons of spring and autumn, the hotel decides whether to activate it based on daily weather conditions—a matter beyond our control. Some hotels may provide a fan upon request. The operator reserves the right to modify the price up to 30 days prior to departure due to circumstances beyond its control, such as fluctuations in the USD/RMB exchange rate, etc.
  • Please inform us if you have any food allergies.
  • If there is a discrepancy in personal information between the passport copy provided to us and the passport actually being used for travel, the operator accepts no liability for the trip. Passengers will be required to purchase new tickets at their destination at their own expense—subject to current fares and availability—and no refunds will be issued for previously issued tickets. Panda Travel Tour is not liable for any losses or booking cancellations resulting from incorrect personal information provided by the passenger.
  • Baggage. Domestic flights: Passengers may check in one piece of luggage weighing up to 20 kg and carry on one piece of hand luggage weighing up to 7 kg. Trains: There is no checked baggage service; passengers must carry their luggage on board and place it in the designated areas at the end of the carriage. Porter services may be requested at the train station and paid for on-site.
  • During Chinese public holidays—such as the first week of May and the first week of October—millions of Chinese travelers are on the move. If you are traveling within the country, please be aware of potential inconveniences caused by crowds of domestic tourists during scheduled visits, so as to avoid confusion at your destination.
  • The operator reserves the right to adjust the order of visits, domestic flight schedules, hotels, restaurants, and local transportation, as well as to modify activities scheduled for free days based on specific local circumstances, without prior notice or any obligation to provide a refund. A prime example is the Forbidden City in Beijing: due to state-imposed daily visitor quotas, tickets often sell out within minutes of being released online and may be unavailable during peak season, despite extensive efforts to secure them. If this situation persists in 2025 without an increase in quotas or the reactivation of travel agency booking channels, the operator reserves the right to substitute the Forbidden City visit with an alternative if tickets cannot be obtained, without liability for a refund.
  • Confirmed hotels are usually announced approximately 30 days prior to the trip. Any hotels mentioned in the visa application invitation letter (if required) are for reference only; please consider the final confirmation we send you to be the definitive one.
  • Due to various government events or conferences coinciding with tourist arrivals, hotels may experience high occupancy; consequently, the originally planned hotel might be replaced by another of the same category. You will be notified of any such changes in advance. The operator manages the booking and ticketing for domestic flights and trains to ensure the entire group can travel together. We reserve the right to modify flight or train schedules due to circumstances beyond our control. In the event of a delay or cancellation of domestic flights that prevents passengers from completing their scheduled visits, the operator will make every effort to reschedule the itinerary so that the planned visits can take place, provided there is no additional cost. Should any additional cost arise, passengers must pay it on-site.
  • The operator reserves the right to cancel or reschedule client bookings without offering a refund in cases of *force majeure*—including epidemic or pandemic outbreaks, etc.—arising either in the destination area where services are to be provided or in the clients' home region (including during long-haul travel to China).
  • We cannot guarantee that you and your travel companions will be seated together on the train. Some train journeys and flights may be scheduled for early morning departures to adhere to the itinerary.

PAYMENT TERMS

  • Initial deposit: $125.00 (NON-REFUNDABLE)
  • 120 days before the start of the trip: 50% payment of the contracted program value
  • 90 days before the start of the trip: 80% payment of the contracted program value
  • 60 days before the start of the trip: 100% payment of the contracted program value



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