6 Days Shanghai & Xi'an In‑Depth Cultural Tour

This 6-day cultural journey takes you through two of China's most iconic cities—Shanghai and Xi'an. Begin in Shanghai with a blend of classical charm and modern marvels: visit Yuyuan Garden, The Bund, and the Oriental Pearl Tower. Take a scenic cruise on the Huangpu River and explore the ancient water town of Qibao. Then fly to Xi'an, China's ancient capital, to marvel at the legendary Terracotta Warriors & Horses, walk along the historic city wall, and immerse yourself in centuries of imperial history. This itinerary offers a perfect balance of tradition and modernity, architecture and atmosphere, discovery and reflection.

  • Tour Code: ST-SX-06
  • Time: 6 Days
  • Accommodation: 5 nights (4+ stars Hotels)

Day1: Shanghai

Arrive in Shanghai and transfer to the hotel

4+ stars Hotels

Breakfast & Lunch

 

Upon arrival in Shanghai, our guide will meet you at the airport and escort you to your hotel. The rest of the day is at your leisure. Whether you wish to rest after the flight or take a stroll through nearby neighborhoods, today is about settling in and preparing for the days ahead.

Recommended:

Enjoy a relaxing walk along the Xintiandi area for shopping and outdoor cafes

Sample local dishes like Shengjianbao (pan-fried dumplings) at a neighborhood restaurant

Day1: Shanghai Day1: Shanghai Day1: Shanghai

Day 2:Shanghai

Yuyuan Garden--Nanjing Road--The Bund--Huangpu River Cruise--Oriental Pearl Tower

4+ stars Hotels

Breakfast & Lunch

 

Begin your day at Yuyuan Garden, a 400-year-old classical garden known for its exquisite pavilions, rockeries, and koi ponds. After exploring the mysteries of traditional Chinese culture, you can go to the nearby areas to taste traditional Chinese cuisine and purchase some souvenirs.

Next, head to Nanjing Road, the city’s most famous commercial street, bustling with life and energy. Then stroll along The Bund, a scenic waterfront promenade offering views of colonial architecture and Pudong's futuristic skyline.

In the evening, take a Huangpu River cruise, followed by a visit to the Oriental Pearl Tower, where the observation deck gives you stunning panoramic views of the illuminated city.

Recommended:

Try a traditional Shanghai-style lunch such as steamed hairy crab (seasonal)

At night, enjoy a drink at a Bund rooftop bar overlooking the skyline

Day 2:Shanghai Day 2:Shanghai Day 2:Shanghai

Day 3: Shanghai-Xi'an

Jade Buddha Temple--Qibao Ancient Town--Flingt to Xi’an

4+ stars Hotels

Breakfast & Lunch

 

Visit the peaceful Jade Buddha Temple, known for its two exquisite jade Buddha statues brought from Myanmar. Admire the architecture and serene ambiance.

Continue to Qibao Ancient Town, a charming water town with stone bridges, narrow lanes, and local delicacies. Enjoy walking along the canals and sampling street food like Qibao smoked tofu and rice cakes.

Later in the day, transfer to the airport and fly to Xi'an, the ancient heart of imperial China. Upon arrival, meet your Xi'an guide and check into your hotel.

Recommended:

Try sugar-coated haws or other snacks in Qibao

Pack light snacks or reading material for the evening flight

Day 3: Shanghai-Xi'an Day 3: Shanghai-Xi'an Day 3: Shanghai-Xi'an

Day 4: Xi'an

Terracotta Warriors and Horses--Da Ci'en Temple--Big Wild Goose Pagoda--Grand Tang Dynasty Ever Bright City

4+ stars Hotels

Breakfast & Lunch

 

 

Terracotta Warriors and Horses: Visit the world-famous archaeological site and witness the impressive army of life-sized warriors. Over 8,000 life-size terracotta figurines, horses and chariots were buried underground for over 2,000 years until they were discovered in 1974.

Lunch: Delight in Xi'an's specialty dish, water basin mutton (Shuipen Yangrou).

Da Ci'en Temple: Explore this historic temple complex. This temple was a famous translation site of Buddhist scriptures during the Tang Dynasty. 

Big Wild Goose Pagoda: Admire this iconic Buddhist pagoda, a symbol of Xi'an. If you are interested, you can climb the Big Wild Goose Pagoda (extra charge applies) for a great view of the city.

Grand Tang Dynasty Ever Bright City: Enjoy a vibrant evening in this lively area. It is a unique Tang Dynasty cultural theme imitation complex in China, where you can enjoy rich singing and dancing performances and charming night scenery.

Day 4: Xi'an Day 4: Xi'an Day 4: Xi'an

Day 5: Xi'an

Xi'an Museum--Small Wild Goose Pagoda--Ancient City Wall

4+ stars Hotels

Breakfast & Lunch

 

 

Begin your day at the Xi'an Museum, a fascinating institution that showcases the rich history of the Shaanxi Province. The museum features a diverse collection of artifacts, including ancient ceramics, coins, and textiles.

Next, visit the Small Wild Goose Pagoda, a lesser-known but equally charming pagoda that dates back to the Tang dynasty. Learn about its historical significance as a site for Buddhist study and practice.

Afterward, explore the Ancient City Wall, one of the best-preserved city walls in China. Stretching over 13 kilometers, it offers stunning views of both the old and new parts of Xi'an. You can walk or bike along the wall, immersing yourself in the city's historical atmosphere while enjoying panoramic vistas.

 

Day 5: Xi'an Day 5: Xi'an Day 5: Xi'an

Day 6: Xi'an Departure

Xi'an Departure

4+ stars Hotels

Breakfast & Lunch

 

Enjoy a relaxed morning before your guide transfers you to the airport for your onward flight. Your cultural journey through Shanghai and Xi'an concludes here, with unforgettable memories of China’s ancient and modern wonders.

Recommended:

Pick up souvenirs like shadow puppets or miniature warriors at local markets

Grab a local Roujiamo (Chinese-style burger) as a final taste of Xi’an

Day 6: Xi'an Departure Day 6: Xi'an Departure Day 6: Xi'an Departure

Why Choose Intoexplore

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Authentic Travel, No Shopping Stops
Every itinerary is designed with comfort and authenticity in mind. We skip the tourist traps and shopping stops to let you truly enjoy the culture, scenery, and stories behind each destination—worry-free and meaningful.
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Tailor Made Tour, Thoughtful Service
We tailor each journey to your schedule, interests, and budget. Whether you're a solo traveler, couple, or group, we work closely with you to design a personalized travel experience that fits your style and needs.
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Diverse Travel Options, Wide Coverage
From one-day tours to small group adventures, family trips to corporate visits—we offer a full range of travel styles. No matter your purpose or preference, we have the right program to match your expectations.
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Local Resources, Professional Team
With experienced local guides, licensed vehicles, and carefully selected hotels, we ensure safety, quality, and comfort throughout your trip. Our on-the-ground team is always ready to support your journey at every step.

China Travel Customer Reviews & Experiences

At Into Explore, we pride ourselves on creating unforgettable journeys across China. Don't just take our word for it—read what our customers have to say! Here, you can explore firsthand accounts from travelers who have experienced the beauty, culture, and adventures of China with us.

trust-1
IntoExplore
Excellent
Charnay Tung
March 11,2025
This agency offers good services and always help me with any errors during booking. Thanks for taking good care of my team during our trip at Shanghai.
Lucía Fernández
Nov. 20,2024
Special thanks to my guide, Sofia. It's really hard for me to find a Spanish tour guide. She is professional and I have a good understanding about the China culture under her guide. During the Xi'an trip, I was shocked by the strong atmosphere of culture. I hope I can go next time, really love it.
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Tripadvisor
Excellent
John J
Mar 2025 Family
4.8 of 5 bubbles
An amazing experience with Into Explore, their services are absolutely brilliant
I would like to take this opportunity to say thank you to Into Explore for providing the Johnston Family with an amazing experience in China, it really was a brilliant service with a very personal touch by Vicky/Tiana and their team of guides and drivers.
Our whole journey through China exceeded our expectations due to the fact that Into Explore made everything so easy and if issues arose, they were rectified in an extremely timely manner.
Their services is highly recommended and they are very flexible with their clients trip design. Design your vacation and they will work with you to ensure your personal needs are fully taken care off and supported by their office staff at all times.
Once again, our experience with Into Explore was a brilliant one and a very special thanks to Vicky.
Swandi T
Mar 2025 Family
4.8 of 5 bubbles
Amaging Exploring Shenzen
Shenzen is wonderful city since arrive all imigration was very helpful and smiling,entering city has lot of park with so many tree. I got good travel agent who serve me well (IntoExplore),I like to explore food, city view hang out in seaworld area. People are welcome and helpful.
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Trustpilot
Excellent
Robert Gex
Apr 15,2025
trust-10
Independent travel by train in China…
Independent travel by train in China can be daunting ordeal. We decided to use Intoexplore for booking the trip and are very happy we did. It almost felt like Norman was a family member guiding us through how to use Alipay for payments in China to where to find the ticket office in the train station to convert digital tickets to paper. He was always available (sometimes at 6 am!) to answer any question and solve any problems that arose .. I would strongly recommend him to anyone who is thinking about independent travel to China .
Seaid
February 06,2025
trust-11
Excellent experience in Great Wall
as a first-time traveler in beijing, I`m so many thanks to Norman for arranging a well-planned trip to great wall and also the kind driver and guide. My first experience to China was perfect. thanks a lot!!!

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