Mystical China - KungFu Pandas & Scenic Wonders 12Days/11-Nights

This morning, begin exploring Shanghai, China’s largest and most vibrant city. Visit the beautiful Yu Garden, a famous classical Chinese garden featuring elegant pavilions, rockeries, ponds, and traditional architecture. Continue to the historic Town God’s Temple, located in Shanghai’s old city area and known for its rich cultural atmosphere and local shops.

After lunch, visit the renowned Shanghai Museum, home to an impressive collection of ancient Chinese art and cultural relics, including bronzes, ceramics, calligraphy, paintings, jade, and ethnic minority artifacts. Then stroll through the charming Shanghai French Concession, famous for its tree-lined streets and unique blend of Eastern and Western architecture.

In the evening, visit the bustling Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street and the iconic Bund along the Huangpu River, where historic international buildings and Shanghai’s modern skyline create one of the city’s most famous views. End the day with a special Roast Duck Welcome Dinner.

Itinerary

Shanghai → Yu Garden (1 hour) → Town God’s Temple (1 hour) → Shanghai Museum (1.5 hours) → Shanghai French Concession (1 hour) → The Bund & Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street (1.5 hours) → Hotel

Meal Arrangements

Breakfast: Breakfast at the hotel (2 per room) 
Lunch: Included
Dinner: Roast Duck Welcome Dinner

Note: Today’s itinerary includes approximately 15,000 steps of walking. Comfortable casual walking shoes are recommended.

After breakfast, depart Shanghai and take a flight to Shiyan, known as China’s “Automobile City” and an important industrial center surrounded by the scenic Wudang Mountains. Along the way, enjoy the natural beauty of the region, including the fresh breeze from the Han River and the tranquil views of the Danjiangkou Reservoir.

Upon arrival, enjoy free time to relax or explore the city at your own pace. Please note that no tour guide will accompany guests during the flight. Lunch and dinner are not included today.

Meal Arrangements

Breakfast: Included at the hotel
Lunch: At your own expense
Dinner: At your own expense

Today, we'll explore the scenic beauty of Wudang Mountain in depth. We'll then ascend by cable car to the summit, overlooking the sea of clouds and towering Taoist temples, and marvel at the majesty of "The First Immortal Mountain Under Heaven." We'll then visit the Purple Cloud Palace Scenic Area, immersing ourselves in the solemnity and tranquility of millennia-old Taoist traditions. In the evening, we'll check into the Narada Hotel Wudang Mountain, where we'll rest amidst the natural wonders and recharge for the next day's journey. This day will seamlessly blend martial arts practice, natural wonders, and cultural heritage.

Itinerary:
Wudang Mountain Scenic Area: Cable car ride to the Golden Summit Taihe Palace (2 hours) → Taizipo (1 hour) → Purple Cloud Palace Scenic Area (2 hours)

Note: 
Parent Hall of Purple Cloud Palace is under renovation, yet sightseeing is not affected.

Meal Arrangements:

Breakfast: Breakfast included

Lunch: Lunch included

Dinner: Dinner included

Note: Today’s itinerary involves mountain scenic area sightseeing, with a walking distance of approximately 8,000–20,000 steps lasting 1.5–2.5 hours. We recommend wearing comfortable casual or hiking shoes. The tour pace will be adjusted according to your physical conditions and on-site visitor flow to ensure a pleasant experience. For elderly guests, a cable car is available for a convenient ascent to Jinding. The rest of the route features gentle slopes and flat paths, and our guide will manage the touring speed based on each guest’s physical condition.

Taihe Palace

Located atop Tianzhu Peak, the highest peak of Wudang Mountain, Taihe Palace is home to the "Golden Summit" of Wudang Mountain and its most iconic architectural complex, earning it the nickname "The Heavenly Terrace." Built during the Ming Dynasty, it served as the central venue for the imperial family's worship of the Great Emperor Zhenwu, and embodies the profound Taoist culture and architectural artistry of the Ming Dynasty. Ascending the Taihe Palace, you'll witness the gilded bronze Golden Hall, housing the majestic and awe-inspiring statue of Zhenwu, whose splendor remains undimmed after centuries. From the balcony, gaze out over the rolling sea of clouds and the rolling mountains, taking in the breathtaking spectacle of "Seventy-Two Peaks Facing the Great Summit." Here, you can experience the mystical majesty of Taoist culture while savoring the magnificent natural scenery of Wudang Mountain.

Tazipo

Tazipo, also known as Fuzhen Temple, is one of the "Eight Temples" of Wudang Mountain and the best-preserved and largest Taoist temple on the mountain. It is known as a "treasure of Wudang Mountain's architectural art." It is the legendary place where the Great Emperor Zhenwu practiced as a youth and was a key part of the imperial Taoist temple during the Ming Dynasty. Here, you'll witness four distinctive landscapes: "One Li, Four Gates," "Nine-Bend Yellow River Wall," "One Pillar, Twelve Beams," and "Ten Miles of Osmanthus Fragrance." Entering the Prince's Hall, you'll be transported back in time as if to the prince studying. In the Patriarch's Hall, you can get up close and personal with the massive statues of Zhenwu and the Golden Boy and Jade Girl, immersing you in a unique blend of cultural and natural beauty.

Purple Heaven Palace

The Purple Heaven Palace is the largest and best-preserved Ming Dynasty Taoist architectural complex still standing on Wudang Mountain, earning it the nickname "Forbidden City in the Clouds." As the premier of Wudang Mountain's eight major temples, it serves not only as the main hall for the royal family's worship of Zhenwu Emperor's parents but also as a vital venue for Taoist rituals. Its three-story hall, built into the mountainside, is magnificent, especially the main hall with its double-eaved hip roof, renowned for its precious nanmu wood and exquisite Ming Dynasty-era paintings. Here, you'll not only appreciate the grandeur of an imperial Taoist temple, but also gaze out from the platform at the magnificent "Purple Heaven" mountain scenery. Preserved relics within the palace, such as the Imperial Stele Pavilion and the Dragon and Tiger Hall, as well as the striking contrast between the autumn ginkgo trees and crimson walls, all speak to the rich history of this 600-year-old architectural complex.

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Nanyan Palace

Nanyan Palace is one of Wudang Mountain's most iconic Taoist structures. Known as the "Immortal Palace on the Cliff," it is renowned for its precariousness, unique beauty, and unique character. It is a registered World Cultural Heritage site. It is the sacred place where the Great Emperor Zhenwu attained enlightenment and ascended to heaven. It carries profound Taoist cultural connotations and serves as a vital center for the dissemination of Taoist culture. Here, you can not only admire the perfect integration of Yuan Dynasty stone temples, such as Tianyi Zhenqing Palace, with natural caves, but also overlook the magnificent sea of clouds over the Nantianmen Gorge. At dawn and dusk, when the rosy glow of the setting sun illuminates the vermilion suspended temples, it resembles a celestial wonderland. The cliff carvings and ancient plum trees along the way add a touch of mystery, allowing you to journey through time and experience the spiritual charm of Taoism spanning six hundred years.

In the morning, visit Yuzhen Palace, a historic temple dedicated to Zhang Sanfeng, the legendary founder of Wudang martial arts. The palace features traditional architecture with blue bricks and gray tiles, preserving centuries of Taoist and martial arts heritage. Here, guests will also participate in a Tai Chi wellness session led by a master, experiencing the harmony of body and mind through traditional practice.

In the afternoon, proceed to Taiji Lake Ecological Pier for a scenic boat cruise across the Danjiangkou Reservoir. Enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, including Tianzhu Peak’s Golden Summit and the dramatic “Seventy-Two Peaks.” Continue to Yuxu Palace, the largest complex among the Nine Palaces and Eight Temples of Wudang Mountain, known for its Ming Dynasty history and the iconic Yongle Emperor Stele Pavilion.

After dinner, transfer to Wudang Mountain Airport for an evening flight to Chengdu, marking the end of your Wudang journey.

Itinerary

Yuzhen Palace and Tai Chi Practice (1.5 hours) → Taiji Lake Cruise (1.5 hours) → Yuxu Palace (1 hour) → Flight from Wudang Mountain Airport to Chengdu (Economy class included, no tour guide on flight)

Flight Information: WDS 9:00 PM → TFU 10:45 PM

Meal Arrangements

Breakfast: Hotel buffet
Lunch: Local cuisine
Dinner: Regional specialties

After breakfast, depart from Chengdu by high-speed rail toward the Huanglong Scenic Area for a full-day exploration of one of China’s most extraordinary natural wonders. Upon arrival, take a cable car up the mountain followed by a sightseeing electric shuttle to reach the famous Five-Color Ponds. Along the way, admire the stunning travertine landscapes known as the “Seven Wonders of Huanglong,” including crystal-clear pools, alpine scenery, and unique geological formations.

Near the Five-Color Ponds, explore attractions such as Huanglong Cave, Yuwang Temple, and Huanglong Ancient Temple. After the visit, descend by cable car and transfer to your hotel for dinner and rest. Guests may enjoy a hotel dinner or a Sichuan-style specialty banquet featuring regional dishes such as crispy-skin duck glazed with maltose.

Seasonal Itinerary Notes
From March to September and November to December, the tour operates via Chengdu → Songpan by intercity train, followed by Huanglong Scenic Area visit (including round-trip cable car and shuttle) and onward transfer to Jiuzhaigou. Example train: C5762 Chengdu East → Songpan (09:39–11:12).

In October, the itinerary is adjusted to Chengdu → Huanglongxi Ancient Town → Leshan Giant Buddha (boat tour) → Baoguo Temple → Mount Emei, offering a different cultural and scenic route in Sichuan Province.

Meal Arrangements

Breakfast: Hotel breakfast
Lunch: Chinese set meal
Dinner: Hotel dinner or Sichuan specialty banquet featuring crispy-skin duck glazed with maltose

Note: Travel distances between destinations may vary depending on seasonal routing and traffic conditions. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended for scenic area visits.

Today, explore Jiuzhaigou National Park, often described as “China’s Most Beautiful Place,” and spend a full day discovering its breathtaking alpine lakes, waterfalls, and forest landscapes. Travel through the scenic area via eco-friendly sightseeing buses along the park’s iconic Y-shaped route, stopping at key attractions.

Highlights include Changhai Lake, the largest and deepest lake in Jiuzhaigou; Five-Flower Lake, known for its vibrant colors that change with light and seasons; Mirror Lake, which reflects surrounding snow-capped mountains on calm mornings; and Shuzheng Waterfall, a powerful cascade stretching across a wide valley. Each site showcases the park’s unique combination of crystal-clear waters, colorful mineral deposits, and pristine natural beauty.

In the evening, enjoy a traditional Tibetan-style meal before taking the high-speed train back to Chengdu, experiencing China’s modern rail efficiency.

Seasonal Itinerary Notes
In October, the itinerary operates differently, with a visit to Mount Emei’s Golden Summit (Jinding), a sacred Buddhist site and UNESCO World Heritage location. Guests will admire the famous golden statue of Samantabhadra Bodhisattva and enjoy panoramic mountain views. Lunch is served as a VIP buffet within the scenic area or at a mountain-view restaurant, followed by a Tibetan or Sichuan-style dinner experience.

Meal Arrangements

Breakfast: Included at hotel
Lunch: Included (or VIP scenic-area buffet in October itinerary)
Dinner: Included

Note: This day involves extensive sightseeing with moderate walking. Comfortable walking shoes and layered clothing are recommended due to changing mountain weather conditions.

October Itinerary:
Emei Mt. → Emei Mt. Jinding (All day, Include round-trip cable car + sightseeing bus) → Chengdu

Meals:
Breakfast: Hotel buffet
Lunch: VIP Buffet in Scenic Area / Scenic dining at Jinding Meishilin Restaurant
Dinner: Authentic Tibetan-style feast / A flavorful Sichuan banquet, showcasing the region’s bold and spicy cuisine

Note: Today’s itinerary involves mountain scenic area sightseeing, with a walking distance of approximately 8,000–20,000 steps lasting 1.5–2.5 hours. We recommend wearing comfortable casual or hiking shoes. The tour pace will be adjusted according to your physical conditions and on-site visitor flow to ensure a pleasant experience. 

Jiuzhaigou Valley Scenic and Historic Interest Area

From Jiuzhaigou to Chengdu Distance: 420 · Travel time: 4h

Emei Mt. Jinding

Return to Chengdu from Emei Mt. Distance: 175 · Travel time: 2h 30min

Today’s journey combines ancient engineering brilliance with rich literary heritage. Begin with a visit to the Dujiangyan Irrigation System, a UNESCO-listed 2,000-year-old water conservancy project that continues to irrigate the Chengdu Plain to this day. Explore the scenic area with a guided tour and optional golf cart service for a more comfortable experience.

Continue to the Du Fu Thatched Cottage, the former residence of the renowned Tang Dynasty poet Du Fu. Stroll through peaceful gardens and traditional courtyards while learning about classical Chinese literature and the poet’s enduring legacy.

In the evening, enjoy a traditional Yuanyang hotpot dinner, a famous Sichuan specialty known for its bold and contrasting flavors, accompanied by a spectacular face-changing performance from Sichuan Opera.

Itinerary

Chengdu → Dujiangyan Irrigation System (90 minutes, including golf cart) → Du Fu Thatched Cottage (60 minutes) → Return to Chengdu

Meal Arrangements

Breakfast: Hotel buffet
Lunch: Traditional Chinese set menu
Dinner: Yuanyang hotpot with Sichuan Opera face-changing performance

Note: Today involves moderate walking at cultural and scenic sites. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended.

Begin the day with a visit to the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, a lush conservation sanctuary dedicated to China’s most iconic animal. Located close to downtown Chengdu, this “Panda Paradise” offers an unforgettable opportunity to observe giant pandas in a naturalistic environment, with especially lively scenes during feeding and breeding periods. An electric car is included for convenient sightseeing within the base.

After lunch, transfer to the railway station and board a high-speed train to Zhangjiajie, a destination renowned for its dramatic sandstone peaks and misty, cinematic landscapes that inspired the film “Avatar.” Please note that no tour guide will accompany guests on the train journey.

Itinerary

Chengdu → Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding (120 minutes, including electric car) → High-speed train from Chengdu East to Zhangjiajie West (second-class ticket included)

Reference Train Information: G2417 12:56–18:19 / G2447 14:10–18:49

Meal Arrangements

Breakfast: Hotel buffet
Lunch: Chinese set menu
Dinner: At your own expense

Step into the breathtaking landscapes of Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the inspiration behind the floating mountains in the film “Avatar.” With over 3,000 towering sandstone peaks, this natural wonder offers dramatic scenery, peaceful walking trails, and unforgettable panoramic views.

Explore key highlights including Tianzi Mountain, known for its sweeping cloud-covered vistas; Yuanjiajie, famous for its pillar-like rock formations; and Golden Whip Stream, a serene valley with crystal-clear water and lush forest scenery.

In the evening, enjoy the spectacular live performance “Charming Xiangxi,” a large-scale cultural show that brings the traditions, music, and dance of the Xiangxi region to life. Dinner features a regional specialty: the unique and flavorful Doll Fish Feast, served with seasonal side dishes.

Itinerary

Zhangjiajie National Forest Park → Tianzi Mountain (2.5 hours) → Yuanjiajie (2.5 hours) → Golden Whip Stream (1.5 hours) → “Charming Xiangxi” Performance (1.5 hours)

Meal Arrangements

Breakfast: Hotel breakfast
Lunch: Chinese set menu with vegetarian options
Dinner: Regional specialty Doll Fish Feast with seasonal sides

Note: Today involves mountain sightseeing with approximately 8,000–20,000 steps of walking over 1.5–2.5 hours. Comfortable walking or hiking shoes are recommended, and the tour pace will be adjusted according to guest comfort and site conditions.

Begin the day with a visit to Tianmen Mountain National Forest Park, where you will take the world’s longest cable car up the mountain for a breathtaking ascent. Experience the famous glass plank road suspended along the cliffside, offering thrilling views over the valley below, and marvel at the natural wonder of Tianmen Cave, also known as “Heaven’s Gate.”

In the afternoon, visit the Junsheng Painting Institute, where local artists create stunning sand and stone paintings that form vivid three-dimensional landscapes. Guests will also have the opportunity to try a hands-on creative experience and craft their own artwork.

After lunch featuring a wild mushroom specialty meal, transfer to the airport for your flight back to Shanghai. Please note that no tour guide will accompany guests on the flight. Upon arrival in Shanghai, you will be met and transferred to your hotel for check-in.

Itinerary

Tianmen Mountain National Forest Park (4–5 hours) → Junsheng Painting Institute (1 hour) → Flight from Zhangjiajie to Shanghai (no guide on flight)

Meal Arrangements

Breakfast: Hotel breakfast
Lunch: Flavored mushroom feast with wild mushrooms and seasonal vegetables
Dinner: Not included

Note: Tianmen Mountain includes high-altitude cable car travel, cliffside walkways, and glass plank roads. Comfortable shoes and caution are recommended for guests sensitive to heights.

Today marks the end of your memorable 12-day journey through China. Guests are free to arrange departure flights from Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG) or Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport (SHA) according to their travel plans.

A single complimentary hotel drop-off service is provided at 7:00 AM. If you have an earlier departure flight and need to leave the hotel before 7:00 AM, the guide will assist you in arranging a taxi transfer to the airport.

We hope you leave with unforgettable memories of China’s rich culture, history, and natural beauty, and we look forward to welcoming you again in the future.