18-Day Epic China Tour Including Yunnan and Tibet

See the Incredible Beauty of Southwest China

As a vast country with varied landscapes, China is worth traveling to more than once. Unlike some popular cities in the first tier (Beijing, Xi\’an, Shanghai), which offer modern and historical attractions, southwest China offers you different insights into the magic of nature and diverse cultures. Towering mountains, deep gorges, lush valleys, and picturesque lakes are concentrated in Yunnan, Tibet, and Sichuan, where numerous ethnic minorities live.

We highly recommend that you start your tour from a low/medium altitude before traveling to a high altitude. Visiting Kunming before going to Lhasa, you would give you time to acclimate to different environments. Check out our suggested itinerary below to be inspired with ideas that are great for a second China trip.

Everyone has a unique picture of an ideal trip. Our itinerary can be redesigned to meet your interests and needs from the beginning to the end. We cannot wait to talk with you about your next China tour.

Suggested Route of China Tour including Yunnan and Tibet

Tour \’Wow\’ Points

Enjoy an Awesome Panoramic View and Take Fabulous Photos from the Peak of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain

Taking the highest cable car to the peak of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, you would be stunned by the magnificent mountain and the sea of clouds.

Cycle around Erhai Lake to Revel in Mountain Breezes and Fresh Air

Cycle around Erhai Lake at your own pace to see the sunrise or sunset from the lake\’s skyline. Enjoy an untroubled time in the breezes and nature.

Tie-Dye Your Handkerchief or T-Shirt with the Help of a Local Artisan in Lijiang

Use flowers and leaves to tie-dye an exquisite handkerchief or a unique T-shirt. Tie-dying is an intangible cultural heritage of China, making it a meaningful souvenir.

Be Awe-Inspired by the Most Spectacular River Canyon — Tiger Leaping Gorge

As one of the most beautiful canyons in the world, Tiger Leaping Gorge boasts grand and breathtaking views with boulder-strewn valleys and rushing torrents.

Visit a Lama\’s Dormitory and Hang a Prayer Flag to Pray for Happiness at Songzanlin Lamasery

Interact with a lama to learn about his daily lifestyle and religious beliefs. Be touched by his sincerity when hanging your prayer flag and praying for your family.

Immerse Yourself in Tibetan Buddhism Culture at the Potala Palace

Explore the imposing architecture, rich history, and religious significance of the Potala Palace. It continues to be a place of pilgrimage and cultural heritage for Tibetan Buddhists.

Be Part of a Chinese Landscape Painting as You Cruise along the Li River

Taking a cruise on the Li River, you could appreciate the synergy of water ripples and mountain peaks. The uniquely-beautiful landscape is a classic Chinese painting theme.

Trek across the Longji Rice Terraces to Celebrate Planting or Harvest

Enjoy seasonally-different beauty of the rice terraces and surrounding mountains. You would have plenty of chances to capture memorable shots of the charming agricultural landscape.

Learn to Make Local Cuisine — Bamboo Tube Sticky Rice — in a Villager\’s House

Cook your sticky rice in a length of bamboo with the help of a local villager in her kitchen. You would see how an ethnic minority family prepares a meal.