Itinerary Option A

Day 1: Depart USA.

Your magical journey to China & Hong Kong begins this afternoon as you depart on your non-stop flight bound for Beijing, China.

Day 2: Arrive Beijing.

Accommodation: Capital Hotel

After crossing the International Date Line you arrive late this afternoon in Beijing, China’s lively capital and host to the 2008 Summer Olympics. You’ll be greeted at the airport and travel to your deluxe hotel centrally located in downtown Beijing, within easy access to Tiananmen Square, the largest public square in the world. This evening, your Tour Director hosts a welcome briefing.

Day 3: Beijing.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation: Capital Hotel

Start your exploration of Beijing with a visit to the vast Tiananmen Square, surrounded by impressive buildings and monuments. It is an excellent spot for people watching! Later, discover with a local expert the Forbidden City, former seat of the emperors throughout the Ming and Qing Panda bears Beijing Zoodynasties. It is a true architectural masterpiece and home to the National Palace Museum. In the afternoon you’ll delight in a visit to the Beijing Zoo where you’ll see the adorable Giant Pandas. This evening savor an included special welcome banquet featuring the famous “Peking Duck”.

Day 4: Beijing & Great Wall.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Accommodation: Capital Hotel

On today’s exhilarating excursion venture outside the city to the legendary Great Wall, which extends nearly 4,000 miles. Time to view and mount the well-preserved ramparts of this ancient wonder before proceeding to the Summer Palace, a former royal retreat of the Empress Dowager and now a lovely park. Here, enjoy a scenic boat ride on peaceful Kunming Lake. This evening you’ll be our guest and delight in the “Legend of Kung Fu” show, a special stage performance that blends music and martial arts, highlighting the history and development of the fascinating Chinese martial arts, known as Kung Fu.

Day 5: Beijing & Xian.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: Golden Flower Hotel by Shangri-La

A morning at leisure to explore as you wish. You may join an optional excursion ($60, lunch included) to Beijing’s ancient back alleys (Hutong) by rickshaw and witness the way the Chinese have lived for centuries. You’ll also visit the home of a local family and have lunch with them. Continue to the splendid Temple of Heaven, a masterpiece of Ming Dynasty architecture. Later today, fly to Xian, ancient capital of China for eleven dynasties and historic gateway to the old silk trading route.

Day 6: Xian.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation: Golden Flower Hotel by Shangri-La

On an included guided excursion visit one of the world’s most amazing archaeological discoveries: a life-size Terra Cotta Army of soldiers and horses guarding the tomb of Emperor Qin Shi. It was unearthed in 1974 after being buried with the first Qin emperor for 22 centuries! Later, visit the intriguing Tang Art Museum and view excellent exhibits and demonstrations of Chinese culture including folk arts, ancient painting works and calligraphy. This evening savor a delicious dumpling dinner, a local specialty, and delight in a Tang Dynasty spectacular folklore show.

Day 7: Xian & Shanghai.

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Accommodation: Crowne Plaza Shanghai Fudan

Today fly to Shanghai, often described as “Paris of the East”. An intriguing, dynamic city, today’s Shanghai weaves the seaport legacy of its past with impressive new 21st century architecture. Upon arrival, you’ll be escorted to your luxury hotel. This afternoon embark on a guided orientation drive followed by a stroll down the Bund, the bustling and exciting waterfront along the Huangpu River. Later, enjoy a delicious dinner at your hotel.

Day 8: Shanghai.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Accommodation: Crowne Plaza Shanghai Fudan

Start your day with a guided walk amidst the scenic ponds, colorful pavilions and walkways of the 16th century Yu Yuan Garden, a delightful reminder of old Shanghai. You’ll also visit the acclaimed Shanghai Museum displaying exquisite ancient Chinese art and artifacts. After an included lunch, the balance of the day is at leisure to explore at your own pace.This evening you may join an optional ($40) dinner followed by a mesmerizing acrobatic show.

Day 9: Shanghai/Yichang.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Today board a short flight to Yichang, a sprawling riverfront town in western Hubei Province. Yichang is also the gateway to the Yangtze River Gorges. Later today you’ll embark your luxurious River Cruiser and settle into the spacious cabin. Set sail late tonight.

Day 10: Yangtze River Cruising.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Spend the day cruising along one of the world’s finest stretches of river scenery. First, dock at Sandouping village and visit the ongoing Yangtze Dam project, the world’s largest hydroelectric power project. You’ll enjoy a lecture on the progress of the project, view a model of the completed dam and savor the scenic views. Return to your ship and sail through the Three Gorges ship-locks towards the Xiling Gorge, a long, twisting passage through rushing rapids, weathered peaks, landmark caves and temples. Tonight, you’ll be the Captain’s guest at a cocktail reception.

Day 11: Yangtze River Cruising.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

An unforgettable day begins as you continue sailing through the Three Gorges. Proceed through the misty Wu Gorge, its twelve peaks soaring above. Dock in Wushan and board a smaller boat for a thrilling side trip up the Daning River to see the “Small Gorges,” presenting some of China’s most spectacular scenery. Towering cliffs soar over the narrow river and unique wildlife abound. Your spectacular voyage unfolds as you pass through the last of the “Three Gorges”, Qutang. This breathtaking narrow passage is the grandest of them all.

Day 12: Yangtze River Cruising.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Today, continue your cruise along the Yangtze River. Dock in Shibaozhai, known for its magnificent wooden Pagoda and appropriately named “The Pearl of the Yangtze”. The pagoda was built nails and is considers one of the gems of Chinese architecture. Alternatively, on some departures you may dock in Fengdu and explore this graceful town lying at the foothill of the mountains and right by the river. You’ll also visit a Relocation Village developed for families who have moved as a result of the Yangtze River’s rising waters due to the Three Gorges Dam.   Tonight, enjoy a farewell banquet and cultural show on board.

Day 13: Arrive Chongqing/Guilin.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Accommodation: Guilin Bravo Hotel

Disembark in the mountain city of Chongqing, a modern river port with ancient history spanning 3000 years. Later, fly southward to Guilin, home to the magnificent karst limestone formations, mist-covered hills and bamboo groves made famous through centuries of Chinese art. This afternoon, visit the famous Reed Flute Cave.

Day 14: Guilin & Li River Cruise.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation: Guilin Bravo Hotel

Towering limestone pinnacles and misty waters form the backdrop of today’s leisurely cruise on the fabled Li River. Enjoy the breathtaking scenery before arriving at the bustling market town of Yangshou where you have some free time to explore and shop. This evening savor a special dinner.

Day 15: Guilin/Hong Kong.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: Regal Kowloon

Fly to Guangzhou, a prosperous city in southern China. Here, board a high-speed catamaran for a short ride through the Pearl River Delta to the scenic harbor of Hong Kong. Transfer to your hotel in the heart of bustling Kowloon, near the majestic harbor promenade. This afternoon savor first glimpses of thriving Hong Kong as you join your tour director for an orientation walk.

Day 16: Hong Kong.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: Regal Kowloon

A morning tour of Hong Kong Island features a drive to the top of Victoria Peak for a spectacular city and harbor view. Then visit the renowned Stanley Market where bargains await, the scenic Repulse Bay and the Aberdeen floating fishing village. Afternoon at leisure to explore at your own pace, visit one of the fascinating museums or “shop until you drop”.

Day 17: Hong Kong/USA.

Meals: Breakfast

Following breakfast, transfer to the airport for your return flight to the USA. Your memorable journey comes to an end as you arrive back in the U.S. later today. 

Itinerary Option B

Day 1: Depart USA.
Your magical journey to travel to China & Hong Kong begins this afternoon as you depart on your non-stop flight bound for Shanghai, China.

Day 2: Arrive in Shanghai.
After crossing the International Date Line you arrive late this afternoon in Shanghai, often described as “Paris of the East”. An intriguing, dynamic city, today’s Shanghai weaves the seaport legacy of its past with impressive new 21st century architecture. Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted at the airport and escorted to your luxury hotel. This evening, your Tour Director hosts a welcome briefing. Crowne Plaza Fudan Hotel

Day 3: Shanghai.
Start your day with a guided walk amidst the scenic ponds, colorful pavilions and walkways of the 16th century Yu Yuan Garden, a delightful reminder of old Shanghai. You’ll also visit the acclaimed Shanghai Museum displaying exquisite ancient Chinese art and artifacts. After an included lunch, the balance of the day is at leisure to explore at your own pace. This evening, enjoy an included buffet dinner at the hotel followed by an optional mesmerizing acrobatic show. (B,L,D)

Day 4: Shanghai/Beijing.
This morning embark on a guided stroll down the Bund, the bustling and exciting waterfront along the Huangpu River. This afternoon, fly to Beijing, China’s lively capital and host to the 2008 Summer Olympics. Upon arrival, transfer to your deluxe hotel centrally located in downtown Beijing, within easy access to Tiananmen Square, the largest public square in the world. Capital Hotel (B)

Day 5: Beijing & The Great Wall
On today’s exhilarating excursion venture outside the city to the legendary Great Wall, which extends nearly 4,000 miles. Time to view and mount the well-preserved ramparts of this ancient wonder before proceeding to the Summer Palace, a former royal retreat of the Empress Dowager and now a lovely park. Here, enjoy a scenic boat ride on peaceful Kunming Lake. This evening savor an included special banquet featuring the famous “Peking Duck”.  (B,L,D)

Day 6: Beijing.
A morning at leisure to explore as you wish. You may join an optional excursion ($60, lunch included) to Beijing’s ancient back alleys (Hutong) by rickshaw and witness the way the Chinese have lived for centuries. You’ll also visit the home of a local family and have lunch with them. Continue to the splendid Temple of Heaven, a masterpiece of Ming Dynasty architecture. This evening you’ll be our guest and delight in the “Legend of Kung Fu” show, a special stage performance that blends music and martial arts, highlighting the history and development of the fascinating Chinese martial arts, known as Kung Fu. (B)

Day 7: Beijing & Xian.
Start your exploration of Beijing with a visit to the vast Tiananmen Square, surrounded by impressive buildings and monuments. It is an excellent spot for people watching! Later, discover with a local expert the Forbidden City, former seat of the emperors throughout the Ming and Qing dynasties. It is a true architectural masterpiece and home to the National Palace Museum. In the afternoon you’ll delight in a visit to the Beijing Zoo where you’ll see the adorable Giant Pandas. Later today, fly to Xian, ancient capital of China for eleven dynasties and historic gateway to the old silk trading route. Golden Flower Shangri-La Hotel (B,L)

Day 8: Xian & Terra Cotta Warriors.
On an included guided excursion visit one of the world’s most amazing archaeological discoveries: a life-size Terra Cotta Army of soldiers and horses guarding the tomb of Emperor Qin Shi. It was unearthed in 1974 after being buried with the first Qin emperor for 22 centuries! Later, visit the intriguing Tang Art Museum and view excellent exhibits and demonstrations of Chinese culture including folk arts, ancient painting works and calligraphy. This evening savor a delicious dumpling dinner, a local specialty, and delight in a Tang Dynasty spectacular folklore show. (B,L,D)

Day 9: Xian/Yichang/Embark Ship.
Today board a short flight to Wuhan, and upon arrival, transfer to Yichang, a sprawling riverfront town in western Hubei Province. Yichang is also the gateway to the Yangtze River Gorges. Later today you’ll embark your luxurious River Cruiser and settle into the spacious cabin. Set sail late tonight. Victoria Cruises Premier Ship (B,L,D)

Day 10: Yangtze River Cruising.
Spend the day cruising along one of the world’s finest stretches of river scenery. First, dock at Sandouping village and visit the ongoing Yangtze Dam project, the world’s largest hydroelectric power project. You’ll enjoy a lecture on the progress of the project, view a model of the completed dam and savor the scenic views. Return to your ship and sail through the Three Gorges ship-locks towards the Xiling Gorge, a long, twisting passage through rushing rapids, weathered peaks, landmark caves and temples. Tonight, you’ll be the Captain’s guest at a cocktail reception. (B,L,D)

Day 11: Yangtze River Cruising.
An unforgettable day begins as you continue sailing through the Three Gorges. Proceed through the misty Wu Gorge, its twelve peaks soaring above. Dock in Wushan and board a smaller boat for a thrilling side trip up the Daning River to see the “Small Gorges,” presenting some of China’s most spectacular scenery. Towering cliffs soar over the narrow river and unique wildlife abound. Your spectacular voyage unfolds as you pass through the last of the “Three Gorges”, Qutang. This breathtaking narrow passage is the grandest of them all. (B,L,D)

Day 12: Yangtze River Cruising.
Today, continue your cruise along the Yangtze River. Dock in Shibaozhai, known for its magnificent wooden Pagoda and appropriately named “The Pearl of the Yangtze”. The pagoda was built without nails and is considered one of the gems of Chinese architecture. Alternatively, on some departures you may dock in Fengdu and explore this graceful town lying at the foothill of the mountains and right by the river. You’ll also visit a Relocation Village developed for families who have moved as a result of the Yangtze River’s rising waters due to the Three Gorges Dam.   Tonight, enjoy a farewell banquet and cultural show on board. (B,L,D)

Day 13: Arrive Chongqing/Disembark Ship/Guilin.
Disembark in the mountain city of Chongqing, a modern river port with ancient history spanning 3000 years. Later, fly southward to Guilin, home to the magnificent karst limestone formations, mist-covered hills and bamboo groves made famous through centuries of Chinese art. This afternoon, visit the famous Reed Flute Cave. Guilin Bravo Hotel (B,L)

Day 14: Guilin & Li River Cruise.
Towering limestone pinnacles and misty waters form the backdrop of today’s leisurely cruise on the fabled Li River. Enjoy the breathtaking scenery before arriving at the bustling market town of Yangshou where you have some free time to explore and shop. This evening savor a special dinner. (B,L,D)

Day 15: Guilin/Hong Kong.
This morning, you’ll take a high-speed “bullet” train to Guangzhou, a prosperous city in southern China. Here, board a high-speed catamaran for a short ride through the Pearl River Delta to the scenic harbor of Hong Kong. Transfer to your hotel in the heart of bustling Kowloon, near the majestic harbor promenade. This afternoon savor first glimpses of thriving Hong Kong as you join your tour director for an orientation walk. Regal Kowloon Hotel (B)

Day 16: Hong Kong.
A morning tour of Hong Kong Island features a drive to the top of Victoria Peak for a spectacular city and harbor view. Then visit the renowned Stanley Market where bargains await, the scenic Repulse Bay and the Aberdeen floating fishing village. Afternoon at leisure to explore at your own pace, visit one of the fascinating museums or “shop until you drop” on your last day to tour China. (B)

Day 17: Hong Kong/USA.
Following breakfast, transfer to the airport for your return flight to the USA. Your memorable journey comes to an end as you arrive back in the U.S. later today. (B

DAY 1: Beijing Arrival

When your flight has landed, your tour guide will be waiting for you in the arrivals hall of the airport. He/she will greet you with a smile and a nameplate. You will be transferred to your hotel by a private van and driver.

Hotel options:
Penta Hotel Beijing (4-star)
Crowne Plaza Beijing Chaoyang U-Town (5-star)

DAY 2: The Temple of Heaven and the Forbidden City

Start your journey at the Temple of Heaven, which was the place where emperors prayed for a good harvest. Interact with the locals and join them to experience their healthy lifestyle. Lunch is served in a popular local restaurant with authentic local food.

Walk through Tian'anmen Square to explore the mysterious Forbidden City in the afternoon. While most tour groups only visit the six halls on the central axis, your private guide will take you to go deeper into the hidden halls for a fuller understanding of the history and to avoid the tour groups.

DAY 3: Hiking the Great Wall

Freshen up in the morning and get ready for a 5-kilometer hike along the most recommended hiking route: from Jinshanling to Simatai West.

This section has breathtaking views and offers stunning photo opportunities in different seasons. There are over 15 watchtowers in various styles and in good condition. As this section is half restored, you can see the unrepaired ancient watchtowers and broken sections as well as the restored section of the wall during the hike.

DAY 4: The Summer Palace and a High-Speed Train to Xi'an

Walk around the tranquil Summer Palace at a leisurely pace, and enjoy the 300-year-old royal garden. Take a pleasant boat ride on the lake and have a stroll in the long corridors to view the exquisite paintings on the ceilings.

Enjoy lunch and race towards Xi'an on a high-speed train, which is a good way to experience the technological development of China.

Hotel options:
Grand Noble Hotel Xi'an (4-star)
Wyndham Grand Xi'an South (5-star)

DAY 5: The Terracotta Army and a Traditional Cave Dwelling

Visit the Terracotta Army and admire the vividness of the warriors and listen to their stories spanning over 2,000 years.

Then discover a local craftsman's cave dwelling and learn how to make clay warriors with your own hands.

After lunch, return to the city area and visit the 600-year-old ancient city wall. Cycling along the wall provides a good view of the city. You may also walk or take a golf cart on it.

DAY 6: Xi'an City Highlights and a Flight to Zhangjiajie

Discover more ancient history at Shaanxi History Museum and Big Wild Goose Pagoda, then head to the Muslim Quarter and wander through the alleys to taste the local Muslim cuisine.

Transfer to the airport for your evening flight to Zhangjiajie.

Hotel options:
Pullman Zhangjiajie (5-star)

DAY 7: Zhangjiajie National Forest Park

Zhangjiajie National Forest Park is located in Wulingyuan Scenic Area, and Tianzi Mountain and Yuanjiajie are the most classic sights.

Take the cable car up Tianzi Mountain and look through the glass walkway to see spiky sandstone peaks below your feet.

After a simple lunch on the mountain, visit Yuanjiajie Scenic Area, which was the inspiration for the Hallelujah Mountains in Avatar.

DAY 8: Tianmen Mountain and the Grand Canyon with a Glass Bridge

Take the world's longest cable car to the top of Tianmen Mountain. During the tour, you will enjoy the unique natural scenery of spiky peaks. Feel your heartbeat when you walk across the glass walkway and are then driven down the curvy mountain road known as the 99 Bends.

Continue to visit Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon and walk on the world's longest and highest glass-bottomed bridge. Walking along this glass bridge at 300 meters above ground level will be one of the coolest experiences of your tour.

DAY 9: Zhangjiajie to Changsha to Guilin

Bullet train from Zhangjiajie to Changsha Railway Station. Take a taxi to Changsha South Railway Station to take a bullet train. After 3½ hours, your tour guide in Guilin will be ready to meet you.

Hotel options:
Lijiang Waterfall Hotel (4-star)
Shangri-La Hotel, Guilin (5-star)

DAY 10: Guilin City Highlights and Daxu Old Town

Be amazed by Guilin's two landmarks in the city, Reed Flute Cave and Elephant Trunk Hill.

Appreciate the natural limestone cave with multicolored lighting. And then take a picture at Elephant Trunk Hill, the symbol of Guilin.

After lunch, travel back in time when visiting Daxu Old Town, where lots of craftsmen and businessmen used to live. Let's knock on the local people's doors and discover their lasting stories.

DAY 11: A Li River Cruise and Idyllic Yangshuo

Karst hills, graceful bamboo groves, and cormorants - the stunning view of the Li River is the essence of Guilin. While most tour groups only use a 3-star cruise, we will arrange a 4-star cruise (the highest level with better facilities and a buffet lunch) to ensure you have the best experience of the river's charm.

The cruise arrives in Yangshuo at noon. After you've checked in, you can enjoy your free time exploring the beautiful area near the hotel.

Hotel options:
Yangshuo Mountain Retreat (4-star)
Yangshuo Ancient Garden Boutique Hotel (5-star)

DAY 12: Biking and Bamboo Rafting Flight to Shanghai

Explore the beautiful countryside along the Yulong River.

Choose whichever type of transport you prefer, whether it's a private car, bicycle, or moped. This is a good opportunity to meet the local people and interact with them.

And then take a bamboo raft to go down the Yulong River. Enjoy a peaceful and memorable morning before flying to Shanghai.

Hotel options:
Sunrise On The Bund (4-star)
Les Suites Orient, Bund Shanghai (5-star)

DAY 13: Shanghai Highlights with Bund Discovery

Do more than just take one or two selfies on the Bund. Travel back in time to the golden age of the Bund in the 1920s during our In-Depth Bund Culture Discovery Tour.

Go into some of the old Bund buildings and listen to their stories.

Enjoy lunch and ascend the tallest building in China (the highest outside of Dubai) — Shanghai Tower. There, you will not only enjoy a panoramic view of Shanghai but will also see the development of China.

Half-Day Customized Icing-on-the-Cake Experience

After traveling in China for around 10 days, you might want to do something different at the end of your tour. Do you want to have some relaxation time? Do you have any unfulfilled trip wishes? In the magic city of Shanghai, your private guide will make your wishes come true!

Whether you want to relax, experience fashion, appreciate art, explore folk customs, or shop; from having fun in a fancy bar to exploring an art center, trying nail beauty, testing your popularity in the marriage market, or just buying some lovely gifts, we will make it happen. Just tell us what you’re interested in.

If you don't know what you want, just let your guide make the arrangements. You will not be disappointed!

DAY 14: Shanghai Departure

Your tour guide, driver, and van will pick you up from your hotel for your airport transfer and flight. Your guide will accompany and assist you as far as the security check and will then wave goodbye.