About This Trip
This 12-day tour travels from southern to northern China, introducing you to iconic cities that capture the country's essence: Hong Kong, where Eastern and Western influences blend seamlessly; Guilin, renowned for its poetic karst landscapes; Xi'an, home to the ancient capital of thirteen dynasties; and Beijing, where imperial heritage mixes with modern life. At a relaxed pace, you'll explore legendary landmarks such as the Forbidden City, the Great Wall, and the Terracotta Warriors, cruise along the scenic Li River, and enjoy cultural interactions with welcoming locals along the way.
Itinerary Summary
| DAY | PLACE | HIGHLIGHTS |
| 1 - 3 | Hong Kong | Victoria Peak, Tai Kwun, Central Market |
| 4 - 6 | Guilin | Li River Cruise, Yangshuo Countryside Tour, Cooking Class |
| 7 - 8 | Xi'an | Terracotta Army, Local Family Visit, Great Tang All Day Mall, Muslim Street |
| 9 - 12 | Beijing | Mutianyu Great Wall, Forbidden City, Temple of Heaven, Hutongs, Summer Palace |
Itinerary
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Day 1: Arrival, Hong Kong
Upon your arrival in Hong Kong, China's most international city, your private tour guide will welcome you at the airport and accompany you on a private transfer to your hotel. The rest of the day is at your leisure.
- Hong Kong
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Day 2: Hong Kong Island
Acquaint yourself with the unique east-meets-west cityscape on today's introductory tour. Start by riding the Peak Tram, in operation since 1888, to reach Victoria Peak, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the city. Free to explore the entertainment and shopping options available on the Peak.
Later, continue to Central - the heart of Hong Kong. Here, you'll take the Central Mid-Levels Escalator to explore Tai Kwun, a historic site transformed from a former prison, along with the nearby Central Market. Experience the vibrant essence of Hong Kong's prime location and uncover intriguing culture and history.
The afternoon is yours to relax or explore more of Hong Kong at your own pace.
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- Hong Kong
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Day 3: Hong Kong - Guilin
Enjoy some leisure time until your private car arrives to transfer you to the railway station, where a high-speed train is waiting to take you to Guilin in just 3.5 hours.
As night falls, you can take a stroll amidst the enchanting atmosphere of downtown Guilin, admiring the dazzling lights of the Sun and Moon Pagodas shining upon the Fir Lake.
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- Guilin
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Day 4: Guilin - Yangshuo, Li River Cruise
Today, you will take the Li River cruise down to the scenic town of Yangshuo. Along the way, immerse yourself in the dramatic landscape of clear water, karst hills, paddy fields, and rural villages.
Disembark in Yangshuo at around 1:30 pm to 2 pm (depending on the water condition) and walk through the bustling West Street, followed by a private transfer to your Yangshuo hotel. For the rest of the day, relax, indulge, and explore your scenic surroundings.
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- Yangshuo
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Day 5: Yangshuo, Cooking Class or Countryside Tour
This morning, you can choose between two experiences:
- Cooking Class: Join a hands-on cooking class (about 3 hours) led by an English-speaking chef and learn to make several popular local dishes.
- Countryside Tour: Head into the countryside, passing scenic farmlands, visiting Jiuxian Ancient Village, and strolling along the peaceful banks of the Yulong River.
In the afternoon, enjoy free time to explore Yangshuo at your own pace.- B L
- Yangshuo
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Day 6: Yangshuo - Xi'an
After a relaxed morning in Yangshuo, you will be accompanied to the airport for your flight to Xi'an. Upon arrival, check in to your hotel and take some time to rest after the journey.
In the evening, enjoy a leisurely visit to Grand Tang Everbright City. Inspired by the grandeur of the Tang Dynasty, this lively pedestrian street features traditional-style architecture, cultural performances, and bustling shops. With its vibrant cultural displays, you will experience the charm of ancient Chang'an in an easy and enjoyable way.
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- Xi'an
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Day 7: Xi'an, Terracotta Warriors
Spend the morning exploring the legendary 2,000-year-old Terracotta Army, including thousands of Terracotta Warriors and gleaming Bronze Chariots, and listen to the stories behind these life-size warriors and their master Qin Shi Huang, the first emperor of a unified China.
Once back to the city center, stroll around the bustling Muslim Quarter to try out ethnically Muslim food and visit the active Great Mosque if time permits.
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- Xi'an
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Day 8: Family Visit & Home Cooking, Xi'an - Beijing
To truly experience Chinese life and culinary traditions, visit a local family this morning and engage with your hosts to learn the art of crafting dumplings, hand-pulled noodles, and other comforting dishes. When time permits, you can visit the local market with the host and select fresh ingredients before starting the cooking.
Then, board a high-speed train to Beijing in 4.5 to 6 hours. Upon arrival, meet your local guide for a private transfer from the railway station to your hotel. The rest of the day is free to relax or explore at your own pace.
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- Beijing
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Day 9: Beijing, Forbidden City & Chinese Medical Experience
Start today's city journey from Tiananmen Square - the landmark of Beijing, followed by an insightful visit to the Forbidden City. You will be amazed by the massive imperial palace, home to 24 Chinese emperors and their families for some 500 years, and reveal stories of power, ceremony, and court life.
Later, visit the Imperial Medicine Hall at Yonghe Palace, where your guide introduces the traditions of Chinese medicine once practiced within the palace walls. As the visit draws to a close, you will have the chance to learn how to make a traditional fragrant sachet, crafting a delicately scented souvenir of your own.
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- Beijing
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Day 10: Beijing, Mutianyu Great Wall
After breakfast, drive about two hours to visit the less crowded Mutianyu section of the Great Wall.
Upon arrival, take a cable car ascending to enjoy panoramic views of the lush rolling hills and ancient fortifications. Engage in some moderate hiking along the Wall, exploring its impressive watchtowers and robust stonework while soaking in the majestic scenery. The peaceful surroundings and breathtaking vistas make for an unforgettable experience at one of the world's most iconic landmarks.
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- Beijing
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Day 11: Beijing, Heaven of Temple & Summer Palace
Begin your day in the revered Temple of Heaven, where you can join locals in their morning exercises, such as singing, dancing, and practicing Tai Chi. Afterward, venture into Beijing's historic Hutong neighborhoods. Visit a traditional courtyard-style house and engage with a local family over a homemade lunch.
In the afternoon, unwind with a leisurely boat cruise on Kunming Lake at the magnificent Summer Palace. Marvel at the lush gardens, grand temples, and splendid palaces that epitomize perfect harmony in this picturesque setting.
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- Beijing
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Day 12: Beijing, Departure
Bid farewell to Beijing today. Your tour guide and driver will pick you up at the appointed time and take you to the airport for your flight back home.
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Quick Question
Gallery
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Victoria Peak, Hong Kong
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Li River Cruise, Guilin
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Terracotta Warriors, Xi'an
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Muslim Quarter, Xi'an
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Mutianyu Great Wall, Beijing
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Forbidden City, Beijing
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