China’s Ethnic Diversity & Natural Beauty

14-Day Journey through Southwest China(Private Tour)

Embark on a 14-day private journey through the soul of Southwest China — a region where dramatic landscapes meet centuries-old minority traditions. From the limestone spires of the Stone Forest to the snow-capped peaks of Shangri-La, and from Bai tie-dye workshops to bamboo rafting in the karst valleys of Yangshuo, this immersive itinerary connects you to the rich ethnic diversity and stunning natural beauty of Yunnan and Guangxi. Ideal for culture lovers, adventure seekers, and anyone eager to explore the authentic side of China, off the beaten path.

Wulingyuan Floating Mountain China Zhangjiajie Travel

📅 Recommended Duration: 14 Days 13 Nights
🎯 Ideal For: Culture seekers, nature lovers, adventure travelers, photographers
🚄 Transportation: Includes airport pick-up, high-speed trains, private transfers, and one domestic flight
🍽 Meals: 13 breakfasts, 9 lunches, 6 dinners
💼 Tour Features: Private guided journey through Southwest China’s most scenic and culturally rich destinations. Encounter diverse minority cultures, explore UNESCO sites, and relax in pristine natur


Highlights

  • Stone Forest: Wander through the jagged limestone formations of this otherworldly UNESCO site near Kunming.
  • Bai & Naxi Villages: Connect with local culture through tie-dye crafts, family-style meals, and ancient traditions.
  • Shaxi Tea-Horse Road: Stay in one of the last remaining caravan towns on the ancient trade route.
  • Tiger Leaping Gorge: Marvel at dramatic cliffside views in one of the world’s deepest river canyons.
  • Shangri-La: Discover Tibetan monasteries, yak pastures, and snow-capped peaks in this mythical highland town.
  • Longji Terraces: Hike through cascading rice paddies and stay in a traditional Yao or Zhuang minority lodge.
  • Yangshuo Karst Adventures: Cycle or raft through a surreal landscape of limestone towers and peaceful riverside villages.

Itinerary Overview

Our standard itineraries are for reference only — just let us know your preferences in the form, and our travel experts will customize a trip just for you!

Day 1: Arrival in Kunming

Description for this block. Use this space for describing your block. Any text will do. Description for this block. You can use this space for describing your block.

Day 2: Kunming to Dali

Description for this block. Use this space for describing your block. Any text will do. Description for this block. You can use this space for describing your block.

Day 3:Dali

Description for this block. Use this space for describing your block. Any text will do. Description for this block. You can use this space for describing your block.

Day 4:Shaxi

Description for this block. Use this space for describing your block. Any text will do. Description for this block. You can use this space for describing your block.

Day 5:Shaxi to Lijiang

Description for this block. Use this space for describing your block. Any text will do. Description for this block. You can use this space for describing your block.

Day 6:Lijiang

Description for this block. Use this space for describing your block. Any text will do. Description for this block. You can use this space for describing your block.

Day 7: Lijiang to Shangri-la

Description for this block. Use this space for describing your block. Any text will do. Description for this block. You can use this space for describing your block.

Day 8: Shangri-La

Description for this block. Use this space for describing your block. Any text will do. Description for this block. You can use this space for describing your block.

Day 9:Guilin

Description for this block. Use this space for describing your block. Any text will do. Description for this block. You can use this space for describing your block.

Day 10:Longji

Description for this block. Use this space for describing your block. Any text will do. Description for this block. You can use this space for describing your block.

Day 11:Yangshuo

Description for this block. Use this space for describing your block. Any text will do. Description for this block. You can use this space for describing your block.

Day 12:Yangshuo

Description for this block. Use this space for describing your block. Any text will do. Description for this block. You can use this space for describing your block.

Day 13:Train to Guilin or Guangzhou

Description for this block. Use this space for describing your block. Any text will do. Description for this block. You can use this space for describing your block.

Day 14:Departure

Description for this block. Use this space for describing your block. Any text will do. Description for this block. You can use this space for describing your block.


13-Day China Nature & Culture Discovery Tour

Tailored Experiences

comfortable 4-star hotels

Private Transport

Expert bilingual guides

Meals Included

Private Tours


Value-added Services

  • English-speaking guide throughout the trip, offering cultural insights and local stories.
  • Private vehicle for all transfers and sightseeing – no hassle with transportation.
  • Free WiFi or China SIM card available upon request.
  • Daily photo and short video assistance available.
  • Can be upgraded to Family, Honeymoon, or In-depth Cultural version.

Where You’ll Stay

travel China hotel 4 stars

Standard Accommodation

You’ll stay in carefully selected 4-star hotels offering a comfortable blend of modern convenience and warm hospitality — perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring.

travel China hotels

Upgrade Options

While the standard is twin-sharing rooms in 4-star hotels, you can easily upgrade to single rooms or opt for 5-star hotels or preferred properties to suit your tastes and preferences.

travel China hotel

Unique Traditional Stays

In select destinations, enjoy a night or two in charming boutique guesthouses featuring traditional Chinese architecture and local character, for a truly immersive experience.

Tour Testimonials

“This trip was a perfect blend of breathtaking nature and fascinating culture. Visiting the Stone Forest and hiking Tiger Leaping Gorge were unforgettable highlights. Our guide was knowledgeable and made every place come alive with stories about local traditions. Highly recommended for anyone wanting to experience authentic China!”
— Emma, March 2025

“The Tibetan culture in Shangri-La was a highlight I didn’t expect. The Songzanlin Monastery visit and yak pasture hike gave a deep insight into local life. The whole trip was well-organized, and the hotels were charming and comfortable.”
— Lars, January 2024

“As a photographer, this trip exceeded my expectations. The dramatic landscapes of the Longji Rice Terraces and Jade Dragon Snow Mountain provided endless photo ops. Plus, learning about minority cultures added a meaningful dimension. The guide was patient and very professional.”
— Isabella, May 2024

Photo Highlights

Useful Information

Flexible Itineraries

At Travel China, we believe your journey should be as unique as you are. Our itineraries are here to inspire—but every trip can be fully customized to match your interests, pace, and preferences. Simply share your ideas with us through the form, and our travel experts will craft a tailor-made adventure just for you, along with a personalized quote.

All our tours can be adjusted to suit your needs—whether it’s adding destinations, changing pace, or tailoring experiences. Just tell us what you have in mind!

Booking Deposit

A small deposit of just 10% per person confirms your booking and secures your hotels, tickets, and private transport. The remaining balance is paid upon your arrival in China.

Passport & Visa

A visa is required for travel to mainland China. We recommend applying at least two months in advance.

Ages 14–70 must apply in person at a Visa Application Center.

Ages 13 and under / 71 and over can apply online.
We’ll provide you with the necessary documents and guidance to make the process smooth and easy.

Transportation

Comfortable private cars are arranged within cities. For intercity travel, we use China’s efficient high-speed trains or domestic flights. Please note: lighters and aerosols are not allowed on trains or planes.

Money & Payment

The local currency is the Renminbi (RMB / CNY / Yuan). We suggest exchanging money before departure. US dollars are also commonly accepted. Credit cards work in most hotels and malls, but small shops may only accept cash. ATMs are widely available.
Hotels may require a credit card or cash deposit upon check-in.

Arrival & Meet-Up

You’ll be warmly greeted by your local guide upon arrival. Throughout your trip, a knowledgeable local guide will accompany you in each city to offer expert insight and support.

Accommodation

We handpick hotels for comfort, location, and character—typically at a 4-star standard. Ratings may differ from international norms, but we inspect all our partner properties regularly to ensure quality. All rooms come with private bathrooms.

Meals & Drinks

Breakfast is always western style and served in the hotel each morning. Dinner (when included) will be taken in local restaurants or at the hotel. A variety of restaurants are visited giving you the chance to experience a range of dishes and flavours. Unlike the western world, Chinese people do not normally pre-heat their plates and food can be presented at a variety of temperatures, which is a typical Chinese way of doing things.

Please contact Customer Experience for questions about other dietary requirements or allergy information.

It is not recommended to drink the tap water, even in developed countries water may contain unfamiliar elements that can cause upset stomachs. In less developed countries water is not filtered in the same way. Bottled water will be available at shops and hotels.

Holidays & Festivals

If your visit falls during a major Chinese holiday, such as Chinese New Year (Jan–Feb) or Golden Week (May 1–3 & Oct 1–7), note that transportation may be busier and attractions more crowded. Shops may close temporarily, but scenic sites remain open.

Share