Chinese cuisine is one of the richest and most diverse culinary traditions in the world, with each province boasting its own distinctive flavors, ingredients and cooking techniques. This 8-day food tour takes you through four iconic food destinations, where you will taste authentic local dishes, visit historic restaurants, join cooking classes and explore vibrant food markets – all guided by local food experts.
Four Culinary Destinations
1. Chengdu, Sichuan Province
Capital of Sichuan cuisine, famous for its bold, numbing-spicy ma la flavor. Sichuan food is one of the most popular Chinese cuisines worldwide, and Chengdu is the best place to taste it in its authentic form.
- Must-try dishes: Sichuan hotpot, mapo tofu, kung pao chicken, dan dan noodles, tea-smoked duck
- Food experiences: Sichuan cooking class, Jinli Street snack tour, traditional tea house visit
- Suggested stay: 2 full days
2. Xi’an, Shaanxi Province
Birthplace of the ancient Silk Road, Xi’an has a unique food culture blending Chinese and Central Asian flavors. The famous Muslim Quarter is one of China’s best street food destinations.
- Must-try dishes: Roujiamo (Chinese hamburger), biangbiang noodles, lamb skewers, cold skin noodles, persimmon cake
- Food experiences: Muslim Quarter night food tour, dumpling making class, Tang Dynasty banquet
- Suggested stay: 2 full days
3. Guangzhou, Guangdong Province
Home of Cantonese cuisine – the most widely known Chinese cuisine internationally. Guangzhou is famous for its delicate, fresh flavors and legendary dim sum culture.
- Must-try dishes: Cantonese dim sum, roast goose, white cut chicken, wonton noodles, double skin milk
- Food experiences: Traditional dim sum brunch, Shangxiajiu food street tour, Cantonese soup workshop
- Suggested stay: 2 full days
4. Shanghai & Suzhou
Representing Jiangnan cuisine – sweet, light and refined. The region is famous for soup dumplings, freshwater fish and elegant banquet dishes.
- Must-try dishes: Xiaolongbao soup dumplings, sweet and sour ribs, squirrel fish, hairy crab (seasonal)
- Food experiences: Old Shanghai breakfast tour, xiaolongbao making class, classical garden tea lunch
- Suggested stay: 2 full days
Full 8-Day Food Tour Itinerary
- Day 1: Arrive in Chengdu → Jinli Ancient Street snack tour → welcome hotpot dinner
- Day 2: Morning Sichuan cooking class → afternoon People’s Park tea house → traditional Sichuan banquet
- Day 3: Fly to Xi’an → afternoon Terracotta Warriors visit → Muslim Quarter night food tour
- Day 4: Dumpling making workshop → ancient city wall bike ride → Tang Dynasty dance & dinner show
- Day 5: Fly to Guangzhou → traditional dim sum brunch → Shangxiajiu food street stroll
- Day 6: Morning market tour → Cantonese soup cooking class → farewell Cantonese banquet
- Day 7: Fly to Shanghai → old town breakfast tour → Yu Garden → xiaolongbao dinner
- Day 8: Leisure morning → private transfer to airport for departure
What Makes Our Food Tours Special
- Local food expert guides with deep knowledge of culinary history and culture
- All restaurants are handpicked for authentic flavor and hygiene standards
- Hands-on cooking classes with professional local chefs
- Adjustable spice levels and dietary accommodations available
- Private tour – fully flexible pace and menu preferences
This 8-day culinary itinerary can be customized to your taste preferences, dietary requirements and travel dates. Our private custom tours include all meals, cooking classes, guide service and private transfers.
Practical Tips
- Dietary requirements: Vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options can be arranged with advance notice
- Spice level: Sichuan dishes can be adjusted to mild, medium or spicy according to your preference
- Best season: Spring and autumn are most comfortable for food touring and market visits
Ready to embark on the ultimate Chinese culinary journey? Tell us your favorite flavors and dietary preferences, and we will design your perfect food tour.
Contact us for a customized food tour proposal and quote.