Chinese Wonders From Beijing to Hong Kong

Welcome to China! As you arrive, we will take care of your transfer to the hotel. In the early evening, well whisk you away to Wangfujing Street, a bustling pedestrian avenue teeming with lively shops and diverse dining options. This outing offers a fantastic opportunity for you to familiarise yourself with the vibrant spirit of Beijing. Dinner is included, after which we'll return to the hotel. Please note: This tour may have travellers joining or departing at various points along the route, meaning group composition can change during the tour. Please also be aware that depending on group composition, guiding may be in additional languages as well as English.

Our adventure begins in the bustling heart of Beijing, where we will embark on a full-day exploration of some of the city's most iconic landmarks. First, we will visit the Forbidden City, a grand imperial palace that served as the residence of 24 emperors for nearly five centuries. Widely recognised for its majestic architecture, it is one of China's most significant historical sites.Following this, we'll head to Jingshan Park, where we will make our way to Coal Hill, a superb spot to enjoy panoramic views of the Forbidden City, weather permitting. Our journey continues with a walk through Tiananmen Square, one of the largest public squares in the world, providing a vantage point to admire the impressive national architecture, including the Great National Theatre.Lunch is included, after which we will venture to the Summer Palace, famed for its beautiful landscapes of serene lakes and graceful gardens. In the afternoon, we will dive into traditional Beijing life with a tricycle ride through the charming Hutong neighbourhoods, where you'll see the city's cultural heritage up close. We'll explore classic courtyard houses known as Siheyuan, reflecting the architectural beauty of the area. We will then return to the hotel for an overnight stay. Please note, visitor access to the Forbidden City is currently limited due to heritage protection measures. If we cannot enter, we will visit the Confucius Temple and the Lama Temple instead, both rich in Chinese history and culture.

We'll begin our day with an excursion to the Great Wall of China at the Mutianyu section, a remarkable engineering feat stretching back over 2,000 years. We'll ascend and descend by cable car, ensuring you can fully appreciate this awe-inspiring landmark. A traditional Chinese lunch will be included. After returning to Beijing, our adventure will continue as we board one of China's modern high-speed trains around 3:45 p.m., travelling at an impressive 300 km/h. The journey covers nearly 1,100 kilometres between Beijing and Xian in just over five hours. We'll arrive in Xian by late afternoon and transfer you to the hotel for check-in.

Upon our arrival in Xian, a city steeped in history as the starting point of the ancient Silk Road, we begin our day with a visit to the famous Terracotta Army. This awe-inspiring archaeological wonder, which remained hidden underground for centuries, comprises thousands of life-sized clay soldiers that were crafted to guard the tomb of China's first emperor, Qin Shi Huang. We'll continue by exploring the Small Wild Goose Pagoda, a serene Buddhist monument that has stood the test of time for over a millennium. Venturing into the historic walled centre of Xian, we'll pass through the vibrant Muslim Quarter, offering us a glimpse into the rich tapestry of cultural and religious fusion that has influenced China over the centuries. We'll also visit the Great Mosque, a fascinating blend of Chinese and Islamic architecture. Our journey includes access to the Drum Tower, where we will enjoy a brief performance of traditional Chinese music, played on ancient instruments. Following these activities, you'll have the opportunity to explore the city at your own pace.

We depart from Xian on a high-speed train, travelling over 700 kilometres to Chengdu in just over three hours. On arrival, we will visit the Panda Research and Breeding Centre, home to 120 giant pandas and 76 red pandas, where you can observe these magnificent creatures in a natural setting. Lunch is included. In the afternoon, we will wander through Peoples Park, a serene space featuring a charming small lake and bustling tea houses where locals often practise Tai Chi.

Today we embark on a full-day tour exploring the stunning landscapes and cultural heritage of Sichuan Province. Our journey takes us to Dujiangyan, where you will discover an ancient irrigation system that has been in operation for over two millennia and is recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage site. We then head to Qingcheng Shan, known as the 'Mountain of the Green City', a revered Taoist site where forest trails lead us through enchanting caves, pavilions, and time-worn wooden temples. Lunch is included during our exploration. Our adventure continues with a visit to the historical town of Jiezi, where you can wander through its centuries-old alleys, rich with history. We return to Chengdu in the evening, bringing a close to our exploration of this remarkable region.

Today, you'll take a flight to Kunming, the lively capital of Yunnan Province. Upon arrival, we will organise your transfer to the hotel, ensuring a smooth start to your stay. In the afternoon, take a stroll through Kunming's Bird and Flower Market, where the air is filled with an array of flora and the chirping of vibrant birds, offering a glimpse into the local culture. We will also visit the Golden Temple of Kunming, an elegant Taoist temple renowned for its intricate architecture and peaceful surroundings. This heritage site, crafted from bronze in the 17th century, holds cultural significance, providing a window into the region's spiritual traditions. Enjoy the rest of your day exploring the marvels of Kunming at your leisure.

Our day begins with a visit to the Zhuanxin Farmers' Market in Kunming, where we will immerse ourselves in the colourful and bustling atmosphere of this traditional market, brimming with fresh fruits, vegetables, and a myriad of local products. Following this, we will embark on an excursion to the renowned Stone Forest, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here, we will marvel at the peculiar rock formations, which appear as if they were a forest of petrified trees, creating a truly otherworldly landscape. After enjoying an included lunch, we return to Kunming to explore the historic streets of the Kunming Laojie District, a perfect way to end a day filled with natural beauty and cultural insights.

Today, we board a high-speed train from Kunming to Dali, a city celebrated for its historic Bai ethnic architecture. Upon arriving, we'll explore Dali's Old Town, a vibrant area filled with shops, bars, and artisanal craft studios along Western Street. Enjoy an included lunch before heading to the Chongsheng Temple, where we'll ascend using an electric vehicle for a leisurely exploration. We'll then settle in for an overnight stay in this captivating historical setting.

On day ten, our journey leads us northward through the changing vistas from fertile fields surrounding Erhai Lake to the verdant slopes of green mountains. Our first destination is Xizhou Ancient Town, where we will explore the traditional courtyard homes distinctive to the Bai people. Following this, we will visit Zhoucheng Village, renowned worldwide for its exquisite blue-dyed textiles, entirely handmade by local artisans. We will enjoy lunch along the way. After lunch, our travels continue to Lijiang, one of Yunnans best-preserved cities and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, promising a cultural and historical enrichment.

Our day in Lijiang begins with an exhilarating trip to the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, Yunnan's most celebrated snow-capped peak. You'll ascend via cable car, unveiling spectacular views that change with the seasons. In the summer, expect to see vibrant green forests enveloping the peak, while winter veils the landscape in a stunning blanket of snow. Please be aware that the cable car may close due to strong winds for safety reasons, and during peak tourist seasons, there could be extended wait times.After taking in the breathtaking scenery from the mountain, we will proceed to the traditional villages of Yuhu and Baisha, tracing back to the heritage of the Nakhi people. Lunch will be provided. Our journey continues with an exploration of the ancient town of Dayan, where you can soak in its rich architectural history. The day concludes with a serene walk through Black Dragon Pool Park, presenting picture-perfect views of the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain. We will return to Lijiang to stay overnight.

Today, we travel to the airport for our flight to Hong Kong, a bustling metropolis known for its vibrant cultural tapestry and status as a global financial centre. Upon our arrival, well provide a transfer to your hotel to settle in and prepare for the exciting adventures that await in this dynamic city.

Following breakfast, our day in Hong Kong kicks off with a tour of the city's vibrant financial district, home to an array of impressive skyscrapers. Our next stop is the History Museum, which offers fascinating insights into the city's past, including its colonial era and the impact of World War II. We then venture to the iconic Avenue of Stars along the waterfront, celebrating illustrious figures from the film industry. A scenic ferry ride aboard the Star Ferry takes us across Hong Kong Bay, leading to a bus journey up to Victoria Peak, standing at 552 metres. Here, you'll enjoy magnificent panoramic views of the cityscape before descending via the historic Peak Tram. The afternoon is yours to explore at your leisure, allowing you to discover the city's hidden gems at your own pace.

After enjoying a leisurely breakfast, our tour comes to a close, leaving you with cherished memories of your adventures. You're free to explore Hong Kong at your own pace or make your way to the airport for your onward journey. We trust you'll carry the experiences and moments from this remarkable trip with you for years to come.