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Wonders of Hong Kong & China

 
You are viewing the 2027 itinerary. Select your departure year
20272028
Duration
13 days
From per person
£4,299
Tour code
HKS27
Mobility Rating 3
View Dates & Pricing
View Dates & Pricing
Gallery

Embark on an unforgettable overland journey through Hong Kong and China, exploring iconic destinations and enjoying immersive cultural experiences while travelling on world-famous high-speed trains

Experience an exceptional discovery of natural wonders, ancient landmarks, modern cities and captivating wildlife, staying in 4 and 5-Star hotels and travelling by high-speed train.

Soak up views of one of the world's greatest cityscapes on a tram journey to Hong Kong's Victoria Peak before seeing another side to the former British territory by enjoying a traditional sampan ride from a fishing village.

Entering mainland China by rail, marvel at the otherworldly karst landscapes of Guilin on a river cruise and meet the charming pandas of Chengdu. Witness history frozen in time in the Silk Road city of Xi'an, home to the Terracotta Army, before reaching Beijing and viewing the Great Wall.

Unforgettable Experiences

Soaking up iconic rural views in Guilin
Soaking up iconic rural views in Guilin
Cruise along the Li River through stunning karst mountain scenery, passing traditional villages and dramatic limestone peaks on one of China’s most iconic and picturesque journeys.
Marvelling at the Terracotta Warriors in Xi’an
Marvelling at the Terracotta Warriors in Xi’an
Experience this expansive collection of statues detailing warriors, horses and chariots belonging to the army of China’s first emperor – considered the greatest-ever archaeological discovery.
Walking along a section of the Great Wall of China
Walking along a section of the Great Wall of China
Forming part of more than 13,000 miles of ancient fortifications, the iconic Great Wall is one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Bask in its majesty from the parapets and guard towers.
Meeting giant pandas in Chengdu
Meeting giant pandas in Chengdu
Known as the ‘giant panda capital of the world’, spend a morning in Chengdu admiring these characterful animals at a research centre where more than 200 cubs have been born since 1987.
Viewing Hong Kong from Victoria Peak
Viewing Hong Kong from Victoria Peak
Absorb incredible vistas of dazzling skyscrapers and Victoria Harbour from the summit of Hong Kong’s iconic peak, where you can also uncover reminders of British governance.
Setting sail for a journey in a traditional sampan
Setting sail for a journey in a traditional sampan
Delve into Hong Kong’s seafaring heritage in the Aberdeen fishing village on the south side of the island, before boarding a sampan fishing boat for a journey into the South China Sea.

What’s included on the tour?

Itinerary

DAY1Overnight flight to Hong Kong

Your discovery of Hong Kong and China begins at London Heathrow, where you meet the Tour Manager and travelling group before boarding your direct flight to Hong Kong, ready to discover the wonders of this fascinating and ancient country.

Shrouded in myth, the history of China stretches back more than 4,000 years, visible in awe-inspiring landmarks like the Great Wall of China and Xi'an's Terracotta Warriors. Gleaming cities like Hong Kong, connected by ultramodern bullet trains, reflect recent rapid development, while the country's natural wonders still shine through. From Guilin's otherworldly karst rock formations to Chengdu's beloved giant pandas, this journey highlights China's exceptional natural wonders, ancient landmarks, modern cities and captivating wildlife.

DAY2Arrival in Hong Kong and a welcome dinner

We touch down in Hong Kong, a unique region on the South China Sea consisting of Hong Kong Island, Kowloon and the New Territories. Once a British colony, Hong Kong has an East-meets-West culture, blending Cantonese heritage and British influence.

Today, the area is one of the world's most important financial and commercial centres, known for its iconic silver skyline with a backdrop of lush green mountains. During our time in Hong Kong, you'll have plenty of chances to soak up stunning views of the city and the coastline.

Today's itinerary is a relaxed one, giving you time to adjust to your surroundings and settle in for your first night in China. After transferring to our four-star hotel in the heart of the city and checking in for a two-night stay, we enjoy a welcome dinner.

Includes
  • Dinner
DAY3Soaking up stunning views in Hong Kong

Victoria Peak, known locally as 'The Peak', is the highest hill on Hong Kong Island, standing 1,712 feet above sea level. It's the perfect introduction to the city, offering spectacular panoramic views of the skyline, the harbour and the surrounding islands.

Boarding the Peak Tram after breakfast, we enjoy a short, steep journey to the top. Once we reach the observation deck, you have free time to explore the summit, take photos and gaze out over Hong Kong Island, Victoria Harbour and the Kowloon Peninsula. If you want to stretch your legs, you can take the 1.5-mile Peak Circle Walk, strolling through the forest.

In the afternoon, we continue to Repulse Bay, a golden stretch of seaside with a stunning skyscraper backdrop, before heading to Aberdeen to visit a colourful floating village known for selling delicious fish. From the harbour, we board a local sampan boat for a tour of the bay, enjoying a glimpse into the local way of life on the water from a new perspective.

Includes
  • Breakfast
DAY4Witnessing Guilin’s dramatic landscapes

Leaving our hotel after breakfast, we transfer to the station and board a high-speed train to Guilin. Known for its otherworldly rock formations, tranquil lakes and scenic rivers, this beautiful city has appeared in Chinese art and literature since classical times.

After checking in to our five-star hotel on the verdant banks of the Li River, we visit the magical Reed Flute Cave on a guided tour. One of Guilin's key attractions, the cave is filled with countless stalactites, stalagmites and rock formations, all illuminated in a spectacular multicoloured light display. Listen as our guide explains the legends behind the most significant formations, each named after a mythical character or story.

From here, we visit Elephant Trunk Hill, an iconic rock formation that looks like an elephant drinking water. From the Moon-in-the-Water viewing platform, you can capture the classic shot of the arch over the Li River. For dinner, we head to a restaurant for a taste of the local cuisine.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Dinner
DAY5A scenic cruise along the Li River to Yangshuo

The Li River is renowned as Guilin's most beautiful river, with the area's characteristic karst rock formations covered in lush vegetation lining the banks. Leaving our hotel in the morning, we transfer to Zhujiang Pier for a scenic cruise to the resort town of Yangshuo.

Along the way, we pass Mural Hill, a collection of five peaks and a steep stone cliff which resembles a mural of nine horses. Look out for grazing water buffalo on the grassy banks as we cruise. One picture-perfect moment comes as we approach the section of the river called Yellow Cloth Shoal, which features on the back of China's 20 Yuan banknote.

Arriving in Yangshuo, we disembark among the fishermen and take a tour of the charming Old Town before checking in to our five-star resort hotel. You have some free time to enjoy the hotel's spectacular views and amenities before this evening's special experience: the Impression Liu Sanjie show. Directed by Zhang Yimou, who worked on the opening ceremony of the 2008 Beijing Olympics, this inspiring light-and-sound show takes place on the river against the stunning backdrop of Guilin's karst rock formations.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Lunch
DAY6Arriving in Chengdu, a UNESCO City of Gastronomy

Leaving Yangshuo in the morning by train, we begin our journey to Chengdu, the capital of Sichuan. Famed for its food, this province is home to the mouth-numbing Sichuan peppercorn, a staple of many of the region's key dishes. Sichuan fare is revered in China, a source of pride further recognised when Chengdu became UNESCO's first-ever City of Gastronomy.

Arriving in the afternoon, we first visit Wenshu Monastery, a peaceful, enclosed complex of temples, shrines and gardens in the heart of the city. Our tour takes us through the monastery's 1,400 years of history. With the scent of incense filling the air and the tranquil atmosphere, it's easy to feel as though you've left the busy city behind.

After visiting the monastery, we walk through the historic Kuanzhai Alley, a narrow street filled with traditional architecture, modern shops and restaurants serving local cuisine. We enjoy dinner in a local restaurant before returning to our hotel.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Dinner
DAY7Getting to know Chengdu’s beloved giant pandas

Sichuan may be famed for its food, but there's another reason people flock to the area. Chengdu is known as the giant panda capital of the world, and this morning, we get to admire these adorable creatures as they lounge in their large enclosures at the Panda Research Centre. Originally founded in 1987 to house six rescued giant pandas, the research centre has since seen more than 200 panda births. These charming and characterful animals are beloved across China as a national symbol.

After our trip the research centre, we visit the impressive Chengdu Renmin Park, also known as the 'People's Park', to enjoy the relaxed lifestyle of the locals. As you wander through the elegant gardens, you might like to stop for a cup of tea at the charming Heming Teahouse, the oldest in the park.

Finally, we stroll amongst the historic teak buildings of lantern-lined Jinli Street, browsing the traditional craft shops and snack stalls. You might like to try one of the local street foods, like spicy chicken skewers, crispy flatbread or sticky rice balls.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Lunch
DAY8To Xi’an, an ancient Silk Road city

Leaving Chengdu this morning, we transfer to the station to begin our journey to Xi'an, one of China's most historic cities. Known today for the famous Terracotta Army, one of the most astonishing finds in archaeological history, the city also has one of the best-preserved ancient city walls in China, dating to the Ming dynasty (1368 - 1644). Xi'an has a remarkable history due to its position at one end of the Silk Road that stretched through central Asia all the way to Mediterranean Europe.

After arriving in the afternoon, we explore the historic Great Mosque. Built in 742 AD during the Tang dynasty, the mosque is still used as a place of worship by Chinese Muslims today. Next, we explore the lively Muslim Quarter, discovering the blend of Chinese and Islamic culture.

In the evening, we check in to our hotel before enjoying a dumpling banquet in a local restaurant.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Dinner
DAY9Xi’an’s greatest sights

The first emperor of China, Qin Shin Huang, is famed today not only for giving his name to the country we know, but also because of sculptures that guard his massive mausoleum near Xi'an. After breakfast, we marvel at the astonishing Terracotta Army, which was discovered by farmers in 1974. This mind-blowing collection features more than 8,000 terracotta sculptures of warriors, horses and chariots in formation, with each life-sized and unique statue representing the emperor's armies. Recognised by UNESCO, the world's greatest archaeological discovery is utterly captivating.

In the afternoon, we continue to the Big Wild Goose Pagoda, a well-preserved ancient structure and a symbol of the Silk Road. It has a square, pavilion-style brick layout and seven floors, each housing distinct historical and cultural artefacts. It was built in 652 AD, when Xi'an was the imperial capital of the Tang Dynasty, and has undergone several transformations in the centuries since.

With a free evening to find dinner independently, you might like to try the classic Xi'an dish Rou Jia Mo, also known as a 'Chinese hamburger'. Meaning 'meat in a bun,' Rou Jia Mo consists of stewed, seasoned pork stuffed in a tender flatbread bun, or 'mo'.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Lunch
DAY10Arriving in Beijing, China’s northern capital

In the morning, we travel by high-speed train from Xi'an to Beijing, the political, financial and historical centre of the country. Boasting more than 3,000 years of history, this modern city is overflowing with ancient marvels.

On arrival, we check in to our five-star hotel in the heart of the city, just a short distance from the Palace Museum. In the afternoon, we visit Tiananmen Square, the infamous site of the 1989 protests. Step into this vast, open space, observing the austere official buildings and the tomb of Mao Zedong, founder of the People's Republic of China in 1949.

In the evening, we enjoy dinner in a local restaurant.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Dinner
DAY11Stepping into Beijing’s imperial history

After breakfast, we visit the 15th-century Temple of Heaven in the centre of the city. This magnificent complex of Ming-era religious buildings symbolises the Confucian belief in the harmonious relationship between Earth and heaven through striking circular altar temples in a landscaped park.

After enjoying lunch in a local restaurant, we explore the Forbidden City - the world's largest palace - inhabited for 500 years by royals and courtesans, with most people barred from entry. Today, it's a UNESCO World Heritage Site housing the Beijing Palace Museum and containing more than 1.8 million pieces of art, countless rare books and historical documents. We stroll through breathtaking palaces, ornate grand halls, peaceful gardens and amongst quintessential Chinese architecture that stands as testament to China's long history.

In the evening, you're welcome to explore Beijing on your own.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY12The Great Wall of China and a farewell dinner

The largest manmade project on Earth, the Great Wall of China stretches from the eastern sea to the western desert. While it's not a single wall, more than 13,000 miles of these historic fortifications snake across mountains and plateaus, designed to keep out foreign invaders and protect the lucrative Silk Road.

This morning, after breakfast, we travel to the rolling hills around Mutianyu, where we admire a beautifully restored section of the Great Wall. Taking a cable car to the wall itself, we are free to explore the towers and walk along parapets in the strikingly fresh air. The views of the local countryside are beautiful, especially when the trees are in bloom, but the Great Wall's majesty mesmerises as it meanders for hundreds of miles in each direction. On the way back to the city, we stop at the Olympic Park for photos, seeing the iconic Bird's Nest National Stadium and the impressive Water Cube.

This evening, we enjoy an authentic experience as we dine at a Peking duck restaurant. At large, circular tables, we savour an array of traditional dishes, with the star of the show being the duck itself.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY13Homeward bound

Throughout this epic journey through China, we have discovered natural wonders, ancient landmarks, modern cities and captivating wildlife. From enjoying a traditional sampan ride in Hong Kong to marvelling at the otherworldly karst landscapes of Guilin and meeting the charming pandas of Chengdu, we discovered the modernity and traditions of China.

After breakfast, we transfer to the airport, where we board our flight to London via Hong Kong.

Includes
  • Breakfast

Additional information

Classic collection

Our Classic range is what we're known for. Enjoy curated moments with plenty of inclusions. Centrally located hotels, premium travel options and engaging group tours with a seasoned expert are included. You'll be in groups with an average of 20-25 travellers and a maximum of 30*. *Scandinavian and Worldwide tours are on average 30-35 and a maximum of 40.

If your tour is marked as Small Group, enjoy a more immersive holiday experience, exploring with a like-minded group of just 22 travellers on average.

Departure times

Travel timings in your Holiday Confirmation are provisional and are subject to change. We will confirm your travel times in your final itinerary around 10-14 days before your departure. Eurostar or Flight times will be confirmed to you approximately 30-50 days before departure.

Visa requirements

Hotels

Regal Kowloon Hotel, Hong Kong
Regal Kowloon Hotel, Hong Kong
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Shangri-La Hotel, Guilin
Shangri-La Hotel, Guilin
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Lijang Scenery Resort, Yangshuo
Lijang Scenery Resort, Yangshuo
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Tibet Hotel, Chengdu
Tibet Hotel, Chengdu
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Crowne Plaza, Xi’an
Crowne Plaza, Xi’an
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Park Plaza Hotel, Beijing
Park Plaza Hotel, Beijing
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Trains & Ships

More information on the different trains and ships that are used on this tour.

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Chinese Railways
Chinese Railways

China's railway system is a feat of engineering and modern technology that has grown to include the world's largest network of high-speed trains. Covering more than 25,000 miles, the bullet trains travel at speeds of up to 350 km/h, with the fastest options being the G and D trains. C trains are also on the bullet train network, with each route - regardless of the train - following incredibly efficient courses between China's fascinating cities.

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Enhance your holiday

Extend your holiday

Extend your holiday by making alternative flight arrangements. Please call us to discuss your ideas and requirements.

Extend your holiday
Flight upgrades

Flight upgrades are available. For information regarding the types of upgrades offered by the various airlines we use, call our expert team for details.

Flight upgrades
London Hotels

Spending a night in London before your tour can make such a difference to the first day of your holiday - you can arrive in the capital in good time, relaxed and ready to join your Tour Manager the next morning. You may even want to take in a show on the West End or dine in one of London's famous restaurants. Perhaps on your return to London, you would like to break your journey with an overnight stay before continuing home.

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We can book a wide range of hotels in central London or, for our holidays beginning with a flight, at Heathrow, Gatwick, or Manchester Airport for the night before or after your holiday. If you require a quote for single occupancy at any of the hotels, please contact us on 01904 734 805.

London hotels