Introduction
Allow China to astonish your senses. This vibrant nation provides an unmatched range of experiences, including world-class ancient sites, vibrant cities, and tranquil rural landscapes that have remained largely untouched for centuries.
As a destination, China has so much to offer its visitors, no matter their interests. It has one of the most impactful and astonishing civilizations in the world, with a rich history and culture. The country offers an impressive natural landscape that is beautiful and mesmerising, donned with spectacular architecture, monuments that amaze and ancient treasures. And if you are a foodie, you will not be disappointed with its plethora of rich and diverse cuisine depending on the regions you explore.
Experience the famous Great Wall, the Silk Road, temple-topped mountains, and the pulsating modernism of Beijing, Shanghai, and Hong Kong on your epic adventure.
Take a luxurious Yangtze River cruise on the Sanctuary Yangzi Explorer, learn about the lesser-known Jinshanling section of the Great Wall of China, see the famous Terracotta Army with an informed guide, get real close to giant pandas in Chengdu, and eat at the Waldorf Astoria overlooking Shanghai’s legendary waterfront.
Highlights
HIKE THROUGH CHINA’S RICE PADDY FIELDS (Full-day - Yuangyang)
Explore some of the largest rice fields on Earth high on Yuangyang’s hills. Your walking guide takes you through sculptured hills that have been farmed for more than a millennium.
DISCOVER BEIJING’S ARCHITECTURE (Full-day - Beijing)
With a tour that includes contemporary landmarks like the National Grand Theatre’s egg-shaped design, factories that have been converted into art centres, and old hutongs lined with small teahouses, you can admire Beijing’s many architectural styles.
EXPLORE CHINA ON A BAMBOO RAFT (Full-day - Yangshuo)
On a conventional bamboo raft, explore China’s fantastical karst environment. Watch villagers sell their items in the market as you float along the emerald Yulong River, a less-travelled offshoot of the popular Li River.
Recommended Hotels
Sofitel Legend People’s Grand Hotel Xian
The Art Deco accents, and floor-to-ceiling grandeur give this hotel a fittingly opulent feel. It is located in the centre of Xian on the premises of the former Imperial Palace, close to the city’s numerous historical sites. The hotel, which was established in 1953 and renovated in 2014, offers all elevated modern comforts.
The Peninsula Beijing
The Peninsula, an iconic landmark in Beijing, oozes grandeur.
The towering appearance with its rooftop eaves and the interior design of each room and suite all exhibit Chinese influences. Take advantage of touchscreen controls, luxurious furnishings, trendy marble bathrooms, and a wonderful selection of culinary choices.
Banyan Tree Yangshuo
The Banyan Tree Yangshuo provides a stunning view of the magnificent Li River, allowing you to take it all in. Attractive views of limestone mountains and tranquil lakes can be found from all of the resort’s 142 suites and villas.
Sample Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive Beijing, China
Upon arrival you will be transferred from the airport to your opulent Beijing hotel.
Days 2-4: Beijing
China’s technological, cultural, and financial centre is Beijing. Beijing, the capital of China, offers travellers from all over the world a diverse and fascinating experience. As the beating heart of China, it can offer you a range of new experiences. Visit Beijing’s Forbidden City, which was the royal residence of 24 Chinese Emperors, to get a taste of history. Explore the Summer Palace, a popular tourist destination in Beijing as it is the most untainted imperial garden in the world. Experience one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, the Great Wall of China, just outside the city, which stretches for over 3,000 miles. And in one of the local eateries, sample traditional Chinese cuisine, or get to know the street food scene.
Day 5: Xian
Travel by high-speed train to Xian, where you can then transfer to your hotel to unwind and relax, before exploring Xian the next day.
Day 6: Xian
Explore the well-known Terracotta Army, discover the Big Wild Goose Pagoda, and enjoy the Muslim Quarter’s food stalls.
Day 7: Chengdu
Visit Chengdu, Asia’s first UNESCO City of Gastronomy, for a leisurely afternoon. You could explore the Chengdu Wuhoo Shrine or visit the Chengdu Culture Park and the Sichuan Opera and experience the history and culture of the city. The city of gastronomy offers various food markets, restaurants and festivals to sample and taste its diverse and innovative flavours. You will experience its aromas and distinct spices such as their use of pepper, garlic, ginger and chilli powder.
Day 8: Chengdu
For a fulfilling and unique experience, go to the revered Panda Breeding and Research Centre, and if you travel around September time, you will experience the newly born cubs.
Days 9-11: Yangtze River
On a luxurious Sanctuary cruise, explore the Yangtze, the third-longest river in the world, and learn about its history. You may also discover its nature ecosystem with its snow leopard and giant panda.
Day 12: Shanghai
On this day you will take your flight to Shanghai, known as the ‘Paris of the East’, expecting to experience the city as a modern metropolis. Home to the world’s longest metro system in the world, it provides excellent transportation around the city, including the fastest train in the world, which travels from Pudong Airport to the city. The city blends effortlessly the modern with the ancient, for example with its Shanghai Tower and the City God Temple, and let’s not forget the importance of the city as a financial and cultural centre for business. Explore a little further out and you will discover the beautiful waterways and picturesque towns that surround it too.
Day 13: Shanghai
Explore this alluring city with one of our guides, who will cater the tour according to your preferences.
Day 14: Depart Shanghai For Return Home
End your trip by flying home with endless photos and amazing memories from your travel adventure in China.
