China Top Cities Tour Review: Cruise & Terracotta Army

Okay, so you’re dreaming of seeing China, and you’ve probably seen tours that whisk you through places like Beijing, Shanghai, and Xi’an. Very possibly you’ve spotted the “China 11-Day Top Cities Tour,” a trip that sounds amazing, especially since it features both a relaxing Yangtze River cruise and that legendary Terracotta Army. Here’s a look into that kind of travel, sharing thoughts that could be helpful as you consider that kind of adventure. The hope here is to help paint a more detailed picture to inform what could be a pretty awesome trip!

First Stop: Beijing – Culture and Contemporary Life

Actually, the tour generally kicks off in Beijing, and first impressions? Very impactful! Right away you might find yourself wandering around places like Tiananmen Square and the Forbidden City. Tiananmen Square is one of the largest public squares you’ll come across, and there is such a unique vibe there – that of an area filled with loads of historical weight that also happens to be a present-day gathering place. You might walk through the very same gates the emperors did in the Forbidden City, imagining what it was like back then, way back when. Don’t rush; let yourself wander a bit.

Speaking of must-sees, the Great Wall? So impressive, to say the least. Getting to walk on that bit of architecture is really something. When selecting your trip, ask which bit of the Wall is on the agenda. Some sections, honestly, are way less busy, and getting that almost-empty experience can make a difference. Also, get yourself comfortable walking shoes since you’ll probably be doing quite a bit of trekking, so very important!

Xi’an – The Terracotta Army’s Silent Guardians

Now, hop on over to Xi’an, which really comes across as the home of that crazy Terracotta Army. Like, it is pretty awesome to stand there and gaze out over that giant collection of figures. Thinking that each one of them stands guard, with slight differences between their faces, makes it much more human.

I mean, when you think about it, someone spent an awful long time creating all of that. If possible, try to get yourself a guide who really knows the history, so it adds to the experience, bringing the history alive. You may also want to visit the City Wall. If you have time, renting a bike to cycle along the top provides a nice way of experiencing it. It’s such a unique way to view the area from up high, it could be amazing to do it, you never know!

Yangtze River Cruise – Drifting By Gorgeous Vistas

Then there’s the Yangtze River cruise, a very relaxing switch-up from all that city exploring. Days spent watching scenery drifting by from the deck can be super chill. Usually, cruises tend to include shore visits to cool places, like the Three Gorges Dam. This thing is huge, so pictures honestly don’t really capture its sheer size. How the cruise folks set up your stay can make all the difference. Find out, like, what sort of events happen on the boat or if there are extra charges. Is that TV actually going to work?

Something that might impact enjoyment would probably be figuring out how touristy a tour might be and balancing free time, because sometimes tours can be very crammed, yet it may feel like you have little flexibility. Getting a sense of the tour’s tempo and then finding the things you personally want to see and do is very possibly the best approach. Don’t forget to get a look at smaller towns next to the Yangtze! You might find something wonderful.

Shanghai – The Bund and Beyond

Shanghai: what a change of pace! When traveling there, you should keep in mind this metropolis shows China’s side that’s modern, so it’s good to see right after all the history of the rest of the tour. When folks talk about Shanghai, many mention the Bund. I mean, taking a relaxed walk along the waterfront offers a good chance for photos that show that distinct skyline. The city looks amazing at night; there might be night cruises too, so possibly look into that. Very possibly the older parts of Shanghai might offer hidden gems.

Don’t underestimate exploring some of the older neighborhoods; seeing locals going about everyday stuff can be amazing. Perhaps find a cool tea house, you’re probably going to find those spots amazing. Keep your options open as well, especially if you tend to be the type of person that likes doing stuff spontaneously.

Some Extra Considerations

• Pace: 11 days goes very fast with a lot of locations; expect that.
• Lodging: Figure out which hotels are typical of your package. Very clean and good places to sleep can mean the difference!
• Cuisine: Keep an open mind about new tastes; get past chain eateries if you can, you’ll love local specialties.

I mean, that tour covers key spots, so naturally you see a little of a lot. But sometimes what makes a trip special are the small things: a tasty meal in a hole-in-the-wall place or a spontaneous chat with somebody new. So consider, very possibly, adding a little free time or taking side trips. Enjoy going around!

Okay, so that tour will offer up loads of main spots throughout China. To very possibly have an unforgettable experience, be sure to check those personal spots as well, and it should work out! Happy travels!

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