A 12-day, family-friendly circuit that threads Beijing, Xi'an, Guilin/Yangshuo and Shanghai. Expect imperial monuments, karst river scenery, high-speed trains and curated local guides — all paced for mixed-age groups.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You step out of Beijing Capital Airport into cool morning air and a translator holds a placard with your name. Your first day is soft—hotel check-in, a short walk to a courtyard restaurant — but already the city hums: bicycles, vendor calls, and the distant swell of a city that has borne emperors and revolutionaries.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
12 days
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; expect multiple 1–3 hour walking periods per day and some stairs.
Wildlife
History
The route stitches together several pivotal chapters of Chinese history: imperial Beijing, Qin dynasty military innovation in Xi'an, and the river-culture that shaped southern trade and karst landscapes.
Conservation
Pressure from tourism on karst landscapes and sensitive cave systems is real; stick to marked paths, avoid littering, and choose low-impact local guides and operators.
Reserve your spot on the Classic China Family Vacation, Customizable Trip today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Bring comfortable walking shoes
Cobblestones, palace halls and uneven Great Wall steps mean sturdy, broken-in shoes will make days far more enjoyable.
Carry a small daypack
Pack water, sunscreen, wet wipes and a lightweight rain layer for sudden showers, especially along the Li River.
Download offline maps and a translator app
Domestic transit and hutong alleys can be confusing; offline navigation and basic translation ease independent exploring.
Reserve travel documents and child pricing early
Bring passports, flight details, and confirm child rates ahead of booking to avoid surprises; entry lines are strict about IDs.
Comfortable walking shoes
Support and grip for palace floors, city streets and uneven Great Wall steps.
Lightweight rain jacket
Spring showers and summer storms are common; a packable shell keeps you dry without bulk.
spring
Daypack with water reservoir
Hands-free hydration and room for snacks, sunscreen, and souvenirs during long sightseeing days.
summer
Universal power adapter and power bank
Keep phones charged for e-tickets, translation apps and photos across long travel days.