If you are planning a trip to China, be sure to take advantage of its impressive high-speed rail system.
China tours by high-speed train
In Japan, a train that travels in excess of 300km/h is called bullet train. To apply the same speed in China, many train journeys between the big cities can be referred to as bullet train. In fact, some daytime runs can go up to 350km/h and keep it at that speed for long stretches,
Unlike in the old days, train travel in China today is not only cost-effective but also more efficient, comfortable and punctual compared with air travel.
All of our of China tour itineraries feature high-speed train for inter-city travels and we go by first class most of the time. This 15-day luxury Southeast China tour is a good example.
Southeast China Tour by Train
Shanghai – Yellow Mountain (Huangshan) – Wuyi Mountain (Wuyishan) – Longyan – Xiamen – Guangzhou – Shenzhen – Hong Kong
Featuring high-speed rail for inter-city travel, this unique itinerary boasts a collection of UNESCO World Heritage Sites, both natural and historical, while offering you a deep insight into China’s modernization of the past four decades. This tour includes strenuous hiking at multiple locations; travellers with mobility issues (hip or knee surgery etc.) would not be able to keep up with the group.
Important Features
- Small group size – average 15, maximum 25.
- All gratuities for local guides and drivers included.
- Inter-city travel by high-speed train.
- No annoying forced shopping of any kind.
- Quality meals at non-tourist restaurants.
- Unlimited supply of bottled water during group activities.
- Free Wi-Fi in all hotels.
Meal Code: B = breakfast / L = lunch / D = dinner
Day 1/Thu: Departing for Shanghai
The exciting China tour begins with your transpacific flight departing from a gateway of your choice. You’ll lose a day upon crossing the International Date Line.
Day 2/Fri: Arrival in Shanghai
Meet the driver on arrival for transfer to the hotel. You’ll have the balance of the day at leisure.
Day 3/Sat: Shanghai (B/L/D)
With a population of 24 million (2015), Shanghai is China’s biggest city, which delights the visitor with its futuristic skyline and historical landmarks. Rapid economic growth in the past 30 years has turned Shanghai into a leading global city that has exerted a significant influence over commerce, culture, finance, media, fashion, technology and transport.
Following the tour orientation, we visit the Jade Buddha Temple that is located in an old neighbourhood, then the famous waterfront promenade known as the Bund, and finally the Yu Garden in the old town centre. We wrap up the day with a drive through the glitzy financial district of Lujiazui on the opposite side of the Bund across the Huangpu River.
Day 4/Sun: Shanghai (B)
Free day to explore on your own. We recommend the Shanghai Museum and the Urban Planning Exhibition Center nearby. The Shanghai Museum is a great place to explore on your own (audio guide available for a fee), and is frequently cited by visitors as one of the best of its kind in China, displaying an impressive collection of artefacts amassed throughout the country.
Day 5/Mon: Shanghai – Yellow Mountain (B/L)
After a leisurely breakfast we ride the high-speed train (2 ½ hours) to the city of Huangshan, namesake of the famous mountain literally meaning Yellow Mountain… [ read more ]
