China’s Hidden Highlights

Overview

Days: 8

Start: Chengdu

End: Kunming

Group Size: Max 16

Age: Min. 12 Years Old

Category: Classic*

Exploring all of China’s ancient wonders could take a lifetime, but on this eight-day adventure, you’ll uncover some of its best-kept secrets in no time. Skip the usual tourist spots and dive into the magic of lesser-known gems like Chengdu’s Tian'fu Square, Lijiang's Black Dragon Pool, and the ancient towns of Shaxi and Dali. Led by a rockstar local guide, this trip gives you an insider’s view of the country’s rich history and culture. Get ready for an unforgettable journey through China's hidden treasures.

Classic*: Tourist class hotels with character, mix of public and private transport at a great price

A traditional Asian pagoda with multiple tiers and curved eaves, standing next to a stone arched bridge over a calm body of water, with snow-capped mountains in the background and trees surrounding the scene.
Map showing a travel route from Chengdu to Kunming in China, passing through Lijiang, Shaxi, and Dali, with icons of an airplane, cars, and train along the route.
Two women in colorful traditional costumes and headpieces smiling and holding up vibrant textile fabrics.
A lively street scene in a cultural market, with colorful prayer flags hanging overhead, small shops decorated with lights and signs, and several people walking along a cobblestone path at dusk.

  • Explore Chengdu’s vibrant People’s Park and Tianfu Square, with the option to visit the Giant Panda Breeding Center.

  • Wander Lijiang’s old town and Black Dragon Pool with breathtaking views of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain.

  • Step back in time through the ancient towns of Shaxi, Xizhou, and the historic streets of Dali.

  • Discover Kunming’s charm at the Flower Market, Green Lake Park, and over a bowl of its famous rice noodles.

Trip Highlights

Cityscape with traditional Chinese temple architecture, modern high-rise buildings, and a bridge over a river, illuminated at dusk.

Itinerary

  • Day 1: Chengdu

    Welcome to China! Arrive at the starting hotel by 3:00 pm to join your group for a Welcome Meeting. Then head out to visit the People's Park & Tianfu Square then opt to join your group for an optional dinner together.

  • Day 2: Chengdu/Lijiang

    Spend the morning free in Chengdu. Opt to visit the Giant Panda Breeding Center, visit the Wenshu Monastery or Kuanzhai Alley. Take an afternoon flight from Chengdu to Lijiang.

  • Day 3: Lijiang

    After a morning orientation walk of Lijiang, visit the the Black dragon Pool and the spectacular views of the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain above the marble bridge. Upon finishing the tour, opt to head to Lijiang Old town to and explore the must see spots like The Giant Water Wheel, Wangu Tower and Lion Hill. Then enjoy a free evening. Opt to visit the Mufu Museum or grab dinner with your group.

    Day 4: Lijiang/Shaxi

    Drive to Shaxi Old Town first thing this morning and head out for a walking tour of this ancient, medieval town full of Buddhist culture. Visit the iconic spots of the town like the Old Market Square, the Old Theater, and Yujin Bridge. This afternoon, enjoy free time in this beautiful town. Opt to visit the Xingjiao Temple or the Ouyang Courtyard.

    Day 5: Shaxi/Dali

    We head to the next town this morning, the thousand year old village of Xizhou Old Town. Explore the well preserved architecture with a tour led by your CEO. Then after a bit of free time in Xizhou, drive to Dali. Head out for an orientation walk and to Dali Old Town. Join your group and CEO for dinner together at a local restaurant. On the way back to the hotel, admire the lanterns that light up this beautiful town at night.

    Day 6: Dali

    This beautiful lakeside town is yours to do as you wish today! Opt to explore the Old Town, cycle around Dali town or Lake Erhai. Maybe visit the National Geological park of Cangshan Mountain on a hike or on the cable car. A local favorite is the Three Pagodas at Chongsheng Temple or you could learn the art of traditional Tie-Dying by the local Bai people. With so many options, the choice is yours!

    Day 7: Dali/Kunming

    Together we'll catch a morning train to Kunming, known as one of China's best natural phenomenons with all its waterfalls, lakes and karst formations. After an orientation walk of the town, opt to head to lunch to try the famous local rice noodle dish. This afternoon, visit the jaw dropping Kunming Flower Market. Then head to the Green Lake (Cuihu) Park where not only will you see your first glimpse of this karst mountain, lake filled town, but you'll also witness locals dancing, singing and playing instruments during their leisure time.

    Day 8: Kunming

    Depart at any time.

Traditional Chinese pavilion with colorful architectural details, situated by a lake with a mountainous background, during clear weather.
A person interacting with a food vendor at an outdoor market stall selling skewered meat, seafood, and other grilled foods. There are signs with Chinese characters in the background.

What’s included?

Meals: 1 Dinner

Transport: Train, private vehicle, walking, public bus

Accommodation: Hotel (7 nights)

  • Welcome Moment - Meet Your Guide and Group

  • People's Park & Tianfu Square Visit in Chengdu

  • Lijiang Old Town Visit

  • Black Dragon Pool Park

  • Shaxi Walking Tour

  • Dali Old Town

  • Dali Xizhou Old Town walking tour

  • Transport to and from included activities

  • Many optional extra activities to choose from

Make it a private tour

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Flights

Our tour prices don’t include flights, as the price of these will change throughout the year. We are able to package your tour with flights and the price you pay will be determined by the time of year you travel, your departure airport, airline and availability.

Your Eventurus Travel Consultant will be able to find the best flights to suit you and your choice of tour.

Dates & Price

From $1,110 pp

Based on 2 adults sharing a room. Solo rooms available for extra cost.

Departure dates available every month.

Message us using the form below or by booking a video call with us

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Tour Operator & Your Booking Partner

This tour is delivered by a carefully vetted international tour operator and curated by Eventurus, specialists in China travel and complex itineraries.

While the day-to-day operation of the tour is handled by the operator, Eventurus supports you throughout the booking process with:

  • Expert destination advice

  • Help choosing the right tour and departure

  • Assistance with visas, flights, and extensions

  • A single, reliable point of contact

This means you benefit from globally trusted operators combined with local expertise and personal service.

Why Eventurus?

Authentic Local Experiences

China specialists (not generic global agents)

Many Big Name Partners

Personal pre-trip planning & advice

Help with visas, flights, extensions, upgrades

Readily available point of contact