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

Arrive at any time.

Is Beijing top of your must-see list? Booking pre-trip accommodations will let you do Beijing your way before meeting up with the group.

Day 2 Beijing

Enjoy an included visit to the Great Wall.

Head out of town to the Mutianyu section of the Great Wall. Spend time wandering around, taking photos, and picking up souvenirs.

Day 3 Beijing/Xi'an

Take the Beijing metro to visit the Forbidden City and Tiananmen Square. Later, board a fast train to Xi'an.

Due to restrictions in China after the pandemic, the maximum daily capacity in the Forbidden City has been reduced from 80,000 to 30,000. This significant decrease in daily tickets has had a great impact on availability for both individuals and group tours to secure tickets, especially during he summer season. Our local team works very hard to secure tickets for each group. However, on the off chance we are unable to secure tickets to the Forbidden City, we will visit the Summer Palace and the Temple of Heaven, places of similar architecture and importance.

Day 4 Xi'an

Visit one of China’s greatest archaeological treasures—the Terracotta Warriors. After, the day is yours to explore as you wish.

Train is our main mode of transport in China and it's a great way to travel. We aim to get the best sleeping berths available on each train journey. However, train tickets availability is limited during peak travel times, including summer vacations and Chinese national holidays. As such, it is possible that the group may be separated into different carriages or assigned top sleeping berths.

Day 5 Xi'an/Shanghai

Say goodbye to Xi'an this morning and hop on the fast train to the bustling city of Shanghai.

Day 6 Shanghai

Take the train to Suzhou today for a day exploring in the city. Visit Suzhou's famed Master of the Nets Garden, one of the most beautiful in China and recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Admire the impressive Tiger Hill Pagoda and its surrounding landscape.

Day 7 Shanghai

After an orientation walk along Shanghai's famous Bund, you are free to explore the delights of this modern Chinese city. In the evening, head to the theatre for an intense acrobatic performance that will keep you on the edge of your seat.

Day 8 Shanghai

Depart at any time.

We highly recommend post-accommodation to fully experience all Shanghai has to offer.