7 Days Private Tour of Beijing, Xian, Shanghai by Bullet Train

Rating: 4.5/5 (based on 3 reviews)
Price: $1,450.00 per person
Location: Beijing, China
Duration: Approximately 7 days
Supplier: China Travel Service

Engaging Meta Description

Experience China’s top highlights in 7 days with expert guides, bullet train travel, and comfortable hotels. A well-paced journey through Beijing, Xian, and Shanghai.

Introduction

Imagine wandering through ancient palaces, walking along a section of the legendary Great Wall, and cruising past shimmering skyscrapers—all within a week. This 7-day private tour offers a smooth and well-organized way to tick off China’s most iconic sights, combining rich history with modern vibrancy, all via fast and efficient bullet trains.

What we really appreciate about this experience is how it balances culture with convenience. First, the included bullet train rides allow you to cover vast distances comfortably, giving you more time to enjoy each city’s highlights. Second, the guided tours are praised for their knowledgeable guides and attention to detail—making the history and stories come alive.

One potential consideration is the pace; with so many sights packed into each day, it’s quite an itinerary. Travelers who prefer more relaxed explorations or longer leisure time might find this a little rushed. However, for those eager to see as much as possible in a short period, this tour hits the sweet spot.

This private journey is perfect for travelers who want a well-paced, expertly guided introduction to China’s most famous cities—by air, train, and on foot.

Key Points

• Fast and efficient travel via included high-speed bullet trains between cities
• Guided visits led by knowledgeable English-speaking guides
• A balanced mix of historical sites and modern cityscapes
• Comfortable hotels with daily breakfast included
• Full access to key sights like the Great Wall, Terra-cotta Warriors, and the Bund
• Suitable for travelers comfortable with a busy schedule and eager for comprehensive sightseeing

Comprehensive Review

The Itinerary: What You Can Expect

This tour is designed to pack as much of China’s highlights into a tight schedule, focusing on authentic experiences with the convenience of private transfers and guided commentary. Here’s a detailed look at each day and what it offers.

Day 1: Arrival in Beijing

Your adventure begins with a warm welcome right at the airport or train station. The driver will hold a sign with your name, making your arrival smooth and fuss-free. You’ll be transferred to your hotel, where you can relax or explore the city at your own pace. Since this initial transfer is without guide service, it’s a good time to settle in or plan your first impressions of Beijing.

Day 2: Ming Tombs and the Great Wall at Badaling

The second day takes you to two of Beijing’s most iconic sites. First, the Ming Tombs (Ming Shishan Ling), specifically the Dingling Tomb, which is unique as the only officially excavated Ming Dynasty tomb among the 13. Visiting this site offers a glimpse into imperial burial practices, with some parts accessible for exploration.

Then, the tour ascends to the Great Wall at Badaling—the most famous and best-preserved section. Expect breathtaking views winding along steep mountain slopes, reminiscent of a mighty dragon. The wall is a marvel of ancient engineering, and the two hours allocated give enough time for a solid walk, with optional cable car rides on your own account.

Traveling in a private vehicle ensures minimal hassle, and the included admission tickets mean you avoid ticket queues—key when visiting such popular sites.

Day 3: Tiananmen Square, Forbidden City, and the Temple of Heaven

This action-packed day covers the core of Beijing’s historical heart. An early start at Tiananmen Square offers a panoramic view of China’s political history, with plenty of space for photos and soaking in the atmosphere.

Next, you enter the Forbidden City, the largest and most complete ancient imperial palace complex. With its sprawling courtyards and intricate architecture, it’s a true highlight. The guides are known for their deep knowledge, bringing the stories of Ming and Qing emperors to life.

In the afternoon, the Temple of Heaven provides insight into the spiritual practices of emperors who prayed for good harvests—a peaceful contrast to the bustling city streets. The combination of these sites offers a well-rounded view of Beijing’s cultural and political significance.

Finally, the Hutong Tour adds a local flavor, where you can ride a rickshaw through narrow alleyways and see traditional courtyard houses. It’s a great way to experience daily life away from the tourist-heavy spots.

Day 4: Travel to Xian by Bullet Train + City Wall and Muslim Quarter

Early morning, your driver will pick you up for the short transfer to Beijing West Railway Station. Then, you hop aboard the high-speed G89 train, which whisks you to Xian in just about 3.5 hours. The train journey is comfortable and offers excellent views of the countryside.

Upon arrival, your local guide will meet you at the station, and the exploration begins with the Xian City Wall, an impressive relic of Ming military architecture. You might even opt to bike along its ramparts for a different perspective.

Later, you’ll visit Bell Tower & Drum Tower—famous landmarks that frame the city center—and then head to the Muslim Quarter, a lively street filled with local snacks, shops, and a vibrant atmosphere. It’s a perfect spot to get a taste of local culture and maybe sample some authentic street food.

Day 5: Terracotta Warriors and Big Wild Goose Pagoda

The highlight of Xian is undoubtedly the Terracotta Army, often called “the Eighth Wonder of the World.” The site is vast, with thousands of life-sized clay soldiers, horses, and chariots buried to guard China’s first emperor, Qin Shi Huang. The museum layout, with its different pits, creates an immersive experience into ancient craftsmanship and military history.

In the afternoon, the Big Wild Goose Pagoda offers a serene setting to explore Buddhist architecture and enjoy a walk in the surrounding gardens. The pagoda’s history ties back to the Tang Dynasty and the translation of sacred texts brought from India.

Day 6: Travel to Shanghai + The Bund and Huangpu River Cruise

Another bullet train whisks you from Xian to Shanghai in approximately 4 hours. This swift journey means more time to explore the city’s dynamic skyline.

Arriving at Shanghai South Railway Station, your guide will escort you to the city’s famous Bund, where colonial-era buildings line the riverbank. The views of the futuristic skyline across the river are striking, especially as night falls.

In the evening, you’ll enjoy a Huangpu River night cruise, a relaxing way to see the city from the water. The illuminated buildings and bridges create a spectacular scene—an iconic Shanghai experience.

Day 7: Shanghai’s Cultural Gems & Departure

The final day begins with a visit to the Jade Buddha Temple, home to a pair of serene jade Buddha statues. It’s a peaceful spot that offers insight into Buddhist practices in China.

Next, the Shanghai Museum in People’s Square houses a vast collection of Chinese art and artifacts, spanning from ancient times to modern periods. It’s a treasure trove for history buffs and art lovers.

Finally, Yuyuan Garden provides a tranquil escape amid traditional architecture and beautiful landscaping, alongside a bustling market area where you can pick up souvenirs or local snacks.

Once you’ve soaked in the sights, your guide will escort you to the airport or train station for your onward journey.

The Experience: What Makes It Stand Out

The private nature of this tour ensures a personalized experience, with your group enjoying flexible timing and attentive guides. The expert guides consistently receive praise for their knowledge and ability to make complex histories engaging and accessible—something evident in the reviews praising guides for their professionalism and depth of information.

The inclusion of bullet train travel is one of the tour’s real highlights. It offers a quick, comfortable, and scenic way to cover long distances. Not only does it save time but it also adds a dash of modernity and excitement to your journey.

Accommodations with daily breakfast and private transfers in air-conditioned vehicles contribute to a smooth, stress-free experience, especially important given the fast pace of the itinerary.

Cost-wise, at $1,450 per person, this tour provides good value considering the inclusiveness of transportation, guided sightseeing, entrance fees, and hotels. The key is that it’s designed for travelers who want to see the big sights without the hassle of organising every detail themselves.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour suits active travelers eager to see China’s main attractions in a limited time. It’s perfect for those who value expert guiding, seamless transportation, and the convenience of an organized package. Families, first-time visitors, or those with limited time but a desire to experience the highlights will find this itinerary particularly appealing.

However, if you prefer a more relaxed pace or extended leisure time at each site, this might feel a little rushed. It’s also ideal for those comfortable with busy days and lots of walking.

Final Thoughts

This 7-day private tour offers an excellent way to experience China’s core cities, combining historic sites, modern skylines, and authentic local culture with the comfort of private transportation and expert guides. The inclusion of high-speed train travel makes it a quick, efficient, and comfortable journey through some of China’s most iconic destinations.

Whether you’re a history buff, a culture seeker, or a traveler keen to tick off bucket list sites in a manageable timeframe, this tour provides value, expert insights, and unforgettable experiences.

For those who want a well-organized, comprehensive introduction to China’s top cities—this tour is hard to beat.

FAQ

Is transportation included between cities?
Yes, the tour includes second class bullet train tickets from Beijing to Xian and from Xian to Shanghai, with private transfers to and from stations.

Are entrance fees included?
Most entrance fees listed in the itinerary are included, such as the Ming Tombs, Great Wall at Badaling, Teracotta Warriors, and Yuyuan Garden. Tickets for optional activities like cable cars or bike riding are on your own.

What about accommodation?
You’ll stay in hotels with daily breakfast for six nights, with two people sharing a room. The quality of the hotels isn’t specified but is generally comfortable and suitable for travelers.

Can I customize the tour?
Since this is a private tour, modifications might be possible—discuss your preferences with the provider ahead of time.

What is the tour’s start and end point?
The tour begins with pickup at Capital Airport in Beijing and concludes at Shanghai Pudong International Airport.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, it appears suitable for families, especially if children are comfortable with active sightseeing days. Children under 18 need to be accompanied by an adult.

To sum it up, this private, train-based tour offers a compelling way to see China’s most famous cities efficiently and comfortably. With knowledgeable guides, seamless transport, and a well-curated itinerary, it’s a fantastic choice for first-timers or those wanting an overview without the hassle of planning every detail.