China Tour

Into the Heart of the Red Land

Arrival in Beijing, where you will meet our representative at the airport and transfer to the hotel. Beijing is the capital of China and one of the oldest cities in the world, as well as one of the four ancient capitals of China. The vast city, covering an area of approximately 16,800 square kilometers, is located in the northeast of the country, and its literal translation is “Northern Capital.”

On the way, we will stop to visit the 798 Art District.
After resting and refreshing, we will embark on a rickshaw tour through the hutong alleyways. These narrow streets are lined with traditional courtyard houses, showcasing examples of traditional architecture and urban life in the old city. Afterward, we will continue to the vibrant Wangfujing pedestrian street.

In the evening, we will enjoy a Peking Duck dinner. The duck will be served roasted and sliced thinly, accompanied by crispy pancakes, a mixture of chopped herbs, and a sweet sauce. The restaurant where you will dine has received numerous awards and traditionally roasts the duck in a brick oven, enhanced with fruitwood for a richer aroma.
Overnight in Beijing.

After breakfast, we will visit the Forbidden City, which served as the palace for Chinese emperors from the mid-reign of the third emperor of the Ming Dynasty until the end of the reign of the last emperor of the Qing Dynasty. The Forbidden City was the home of the emperor and his family for nearly 500 years, as well as the political and ceremonial center of the Chinese government.

It is called the “Forbidden City” because the emperors who lived there did not allow anyone to enter or leave without their permission. Since 1924, after the last emperor, Puyi, was expelled, the city has been open for visitors and has become a national museum.

We will visit Tiananmen Square, a vast square in the center of Beijing named after the Tiananmen Gate, which was built by the Ming Dynasty and is one of the most significant symbols of China. The square has hosted many important and historic events throughout Chinese history, including the proclamation of Chinese independence in 1949, along with countless cultural events, speeches, parades, and various cultural activities. Surrounding the square, you can find the Monument to the People’s Heroes, the Great Hall of the People, and Mao’s Mausoleum.

Afterward, we will enjoy a view from Coal Hill and continue to visit the restored Qianmen Street.
Overnight in Beijing.

After breakfast, we will drive approximately an hour and a half for a day trip to the Great Wall of China. The Great Wall is considered one of the Seven Wonders of the World and stretches over 6,350 kilometers. Its construction began over 2,000 years ago when China was unified into a single kingdom by the Qin Dynasty. Parts of the wall were built by independent states and later unified into one wall by the Qin Dynasty. (Ascent and descent from the wall will be by cable car.)

Afterward, we will continue our visit to the Summer Palace, including a boat ride on the lake.

In the evening, we will enjoy an exciting Kung Fu show. This performance combines dance, acrobatics, and, of course, Kung Fu. The story follows a young boy wandering outside one of the many temples in China, dreaming of becoming a master of the martial art. The show first premiered at the Red Theatre in 2004 and has since presented two performances daily, attracting both tourists and local audiences.
Overnight in Beijing.

After breakfast, we will transfer to the train station for a high-speed train ride (4 hours) to Shanghai.
Shanghai is the largest city in China and the most populous city in the world. The city is situated at the mouth of the Yangtze River and, unlike other cities in China, does not belong to any specific province. Shanghai is divided into two parts, separated by the Huangpu River. The cosmopolitan Shanghai offers visitors unique architecture that blends European styles with modern skyscrapers, Buddhist temples, green parks, and a rich cultural life.

Upon arrival, we will take a stroll along the Bund, a riverside promenade lined with colonial buildings. The Bund has been one of the city’s symbols for over 100 years. On one side, you will find well-preserved colonial structures that give the promenade a European character, including numerous hotels, banks, and trading houses. The other side of the promenade, Pudong District, is home to the enormous skyscrapers that have become synonymous with the city.

We will continue our visit to Nanjing Road, a street dedicated entirely to shopping and the main shopping thoroughfare of Shanghai. Afterward, we will transfer to the hotel.

In the evening, we will enjoy a meal at a contemporary restaurant specializing in Shanghai cuisine.
Overnight in Shanghai.

After breakfast, we will drive for about an hour to the water town of Zhujiajiao. This ancient water town is over 1,700 years old and served as an important trading center for the surrounding rural areas. Many of the ancient buildings from the Ming and Qing Dynasties have been well preserved to this day.
We will stroll through the town, observing the local lifestyle and the ancient architectural style that has remained intact.

Afterward, we will drive back to Shanghai.
Upon arrival, we will ascend to an amazing viewpoint from the Shanghai Tower, one of the tallest towers in the world and a symbol of modern China. The tower rises to a height of 468 meters and was the tallest building in China until 2007.

Next, we will visit the Old City of Shanghai, including the Yuyuan Garden, the surrounding markets, and the ancient synagogue. We will then explore the lively French Concession area, featuring some of the oldest and most impressive buildings in the city, built in European styles that give the area an atmosphere reminiscent of the “Paris of the East.” This vibrant district is filled with dozens of galleries, shops, restaurants offering cuisine from around the world, cafes, and pubs.

In the evening, enjoy an acrobatics show that combines traditional Chinese dance and martial arts, with special effects, lighting, and original music.
Overnight in Shanghai.

After breakfast, enjoy a half day free in Shanghai.
Afterward, we will transfer to the train station for a approximately 6-hour ride to Xi’an, the ancient capital of China. Xi’an is located at the eastern end of the Silk Road, where the main trade routes between the Far East and Europe passed. As a central hub in China, it is a melting pot of people, culture, and cuisine from all over the country.

Upon arrival, transfer to the hotel.
Overnight in Xi’an.

After breakfast, we will travel to one of Xi’an’s most remarkable sites—the Terracotta Warriors. This site features an army of 6,000 life-sized soldiers and their horses, made from fired clay, standing ready to protect the emperor on his journey to eternity.
After our visit, we will return to Xi’an for a city tour. We will explore the city walls, originally part of the imperial palace of the Tang Dynasty, which were rebuilt in the 14th century by the Ming Dynasty, giving the city its current name, Xi’an.

Next, we will tour the Muslim Quarter of Xi’an, the heart of the Muslim community in the city, where a unique blend of Chinese and Arab cultures can be found. The Muslim Quarter was established about 1,000 years ago when traders and students from Arab countries arrived in Xi’an, which was a key stop on the ancient Silk Road.

Afterward, we will visit the Big Goose Pagoda and the local markets.

At the end of the tour, transfer to the hotel.
In the evening, enjoy a Dim Sum meal. The name means “small touches to the heart,” and refers to a Chinese meal consisting of small dishes, originating from Canton but gradually spreading throughout China.
Overnight in Xi’an.

After breakfast, we will transfer to the train station for a high-speed train ride of approximately 3.5 hours to Chengdu, the capital of Sichuan Province, the most fertile region in China, and the fifth most populous city in the country.

Chengdu, designed in a circular layout, exudes a rural and traditional atmosphere with narrow alleyways, low wooden buildings, Chinese markets, charming tea houses, and greenery everywhere. Today, Chengdu serves as a powerful industrial and economic center, catering to both the local and international markets. It is one of the largest producers of technology and electronics in China and is also known as the capital of traditional Chinese medicine and a hub for herbal remedies in the country.

Upon arrival, we will drive approximately two hours to Leshan, a significant Buddhist site in China due to its giant Buddha statue, which stands 71 meters tall, carved into the cliff overlooking the river. Upon arrival, we will take a shared boat ride to view the massive statue.

Afterward, we will continue with a drive of about half an hour to Emeishan, a small city where the main attraction is Mount Emei, located 7 kilometers away. This mountain, rising to 3,077 meters, is considered one of the four most sacred mountains for Buddhists in China. At the summit, several of the most sacred temples and pagodas of Buddhism can be found, offering stunning views. Like Leshan, the Emeishan area has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and attracts hundreds of thousands of pilgrims and tourists each year.

Upon arrival, transfer to the hotel.
Overnight in Emeishan.

After breakfast, we will enjoy a day of exploration in Emeishan, combining hikes along the trails and encounters with pilgrims visiting the sacred monasteries. In addition to the numerous monasteries scattered throughout the area, the beautiful scenery from the viewpoints makes Mount Emei rich in diverse flora and fauna. Hikers climbing the paths alongside Chinese pilgrims may encounter lively monkeys. (Ascent by cable car, descent on foot.)

Afterward, we will drive back to Chengdu.
Upon arrival, we will visit the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, where we can observe these adorable creatures.
After that, transfer to the hotel.
Overnight in Chengdu.

After breakfast and according to your flight time, we will transfer to the airport for a flight to Lijiang, a picturesque town on the border of Tibet, located in a valley surrounded by snow-capped mountains. The town has a history of over 800 years and was first established during the late Song Dynasty and early Yuan Dynasty. Lijiang was once an important trading center on the route that transported goods from Yunnan to Tibet and also served as a cultural and economic hub for the Naxi people, one of the last matriarchal cultures in the world.

In 1996, the town suffered significant damage from an earthquake and underwent extensive reconstruction, with many of the houses, bridges, and streets rebuilt. The prominent feature of Lijiang that represents Naxi culture is the diversity of residential styles. Special attention has been given to the decoration of the houses, particularly the arches above the entrances, balconies, doors, windows, and roof beams, all of which can be seen today while wandering the streets of the old town, “Dain,” which has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Upon arrival, we will visit the “Jade Dragon Snow Mountain,” which rises to over 5,500 meters. We will take a cable car up to 3,000 meters above sea level and enjoy a short hike.

Afterward, we will descend by cable car and enjoy a minority performance—an outdoor show in the largest open-air theater in the world featuring singing and dancing that showcases the traditions and lifestyle of the various ethnic groups. This production is another work by the renowned Chinese director Zhang Yimou (VIP seating).

Next, we will return to Lijiang and explore the old town, with its cobbled streets, bridges, and streams. The town features beautifully preserved wooden architecture, stone squares, and is vehicle-free, abundant with tea houses, cafes, and inviting small restaurants. After that, transfer to the hotel.
Overnight in Lijiang.

After breakfast, we will drive for about an hour and a half to two of the most beautiful and impressive natural sites in Yunnan: the first bend of the Yangtze River as it descends from the Tibetan plateau and the Tiger Leaping Gorge, where the Yangtze River rushes between the cliffs. Here, we will enjoy a short hike along the riverbanks.

Afterward, we will return to Lijiang. Upon arrival, we will visit Yufeng Village and its temple, as well as the Baisha Village, where we will admire the impressive murals and explore the village.
After that, transfer to the hotel.
Overnight in Lijiang.

After breakfast, we will transfer to the train station for a high-speed train ride of approximately 3.5 hours to Kunming, the capital of Yunnan Province in southern China.

Upon arrival, we will drive to one of the unique scenic areas in China—the Stone Forest. Karst weathering processes have created “fossil forest” shapes in the limestone cliffs. The site features a collection of limestone formations that resemble a stone forest, each with a different shape, surrounded by various stories and legends. In the Stone Forest, you will meet the Sani women showcasing their embroidery work.

After that, we will continue with a drive of about 3 hours to the “Red Land” of Dongchuan. This name describes a region of mountains covered in stunningly beautiful flower carpets. It is said to be God’s color palette, featuring a mesmerizing mix of red, orange, green, blue, and purple. The locals are accustomed to this colorful landscape, while visitors gaze in awe at the scenery unfolding before them. The explanation for this phenomenon is simple: each family in the area receives a different-sized plot of land and chooses what to cultivate—wheat, corn, sunflowers, or potatoes. The various colorful crops create the stunning patches of color.

Upon arrival, transfer to the hotel.
Overnight in Dongchuan.

After breakfast, we will enjoy a day of hiking in the area with stunning viewpoints. We will watch the sunrise at Dama Kan, visit Junxiu Garden, Qi Cai Po viewpoint, and other scenic spots.

Afterward, we will drive approximately 3 hours back to Kunming. Upon arrival, we will transfer to the train station for a high-speed train ride of about 3.5 hours to Guiyang, the capital of Guizhou Province—one of the most traditional and simplistic provinces in China. The mountainous landscape is filled with rice terraces and villages, providing opportunities to meet the Dong and Miao ethnic minorities, who were isolated from the advancing Chinese world until recently and continue to preserve their ancient traditions.

Upon arrival, transfer to the hotel.
Overnight in Guiyang.

After breakfast, we will embark on a tour in the Guiyang area, visiting local villages. These villages are characterized by their traditional wooden architecture and vibrant culture, where you can experience the daily lives of the local ethnic minorities, including the Miao and Dong people. You may also encounter beautiful terraced fields and learn about the unique customs and crafts that have been passed down through generations.

Afterward, we will drive approximately two and a half hours to Kaili, the cultural center of the Miao ethnic minority. Throughout the year, Kaili hosts colorful festivals and celebrations, primarily among the Miao people, featuring traditional clothing, dances, parades, and more.

Upon arrival, we will visit local villages and observe the daily lives of the residents. After that, we will transfer to the hotel.
Overnight in Kaili.

After breakfast, we will visit the village of Shiqiao, where the residents engage in the ancient craft of paper-making from tree bark using traditional techniques.

Afterward, we will drive approximately 3 hours to Zhaoxing, a picturesque and ancient village of the Dong minority located among the mountains of Guizhou Province in a small fertile valley. The village preserves traditional ways of life and customs with ancient traditions: wooden houses featuring ancient architecture, men and women in traditional clothing, and practices in agriculture and traditional weaving.

Upon arrival, we will take a tour of the village. After that, we will transfer to the hotel.
Overnight in Zhaoxing.

After breakfast, we will visit local villages and then cross the border into Guizhou Province, driving approximately two and a half hours to visit the Longsheng Rice Terraces.

The tour will take us through agricultural landscapes, where we will admire the rice terraces that utilize every piece of land for cultivation and get a glimpse into the authentic lives of the local residents. During the visit, we will enjoy a hike of about 50 minutes to a viewpoint for stunning views of the terraces, and we will also visit local villages.

After that, we will transfer to the hotel.
Overnight in Longsheng.

After breakfast, we will drive approximately 3 hours to Yangshuo, a picturesque town known for its stunning karst landscape and vibrant, colorful market located along the banks of the Yulong River. Surrounded by towering limestone peaks, Yangshuo is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering activities such as cycling, hiking, and bamboo rafting. The town’s lively atmosphere is enhanced by street performances and local cuisine.

Upon arrival, transfer to the hotel.
The rest of the day is free to explore the town at your leisure.
Overnight in Yangshuo.

After breakfast, we will embark on a bamboo raft ride on the Yulong River. This journey will take us between stunning cliffs while observing the tranquil lives of the villagers and the unique lifestyle of the fishermen along the river.

In the afternoon, we will hike to Moon Hill, where you can enjoy a panoramic view of the area (the climb is challenging but well worth the effort—the scenery definitely justifies the exertion!). Afterward, we will visit local villages in the vicinity.

Next, we will explore the West Street of Yangshuo, known for its vibrant atmosphere, shops, and cafes.
In the evening, enjoy the spectacular show “Impressions.” Directed by the renowned Zhang Yimou, who also directed the opening ceremony of the Olympics, this performance features over 500 local performers, with the natural landscape serving as a stunning backdrop enhanced by lighting effects.
Overnight in Yangshuo.

After breakfast, we will enjoy a cooking workshop lasting approximately 3 hours. We will head to the local market, accompanied by the chef, who will explain the ingredients we will purchase for preparing the meal.

Back in the kitchen, we will learn about cooking techniques in Chinese cuisine and prepare several dishes. To conclude the workshop, you will enjoy a lunch made from your own creations.

After the workshop, you will have free time to explore Yangshuo at your leisure, allowing you to wander through the charming streets, visit local shops, or relax in a café.
Overnight in Yangshuo.

After breakfast and according to your flight time, we will drive approximately 1.5 hours back to Guilin and transfer to the airport for your flight back home.