Classic China by Train (25 days)

Shanghai – Hangzhou – Suzhou – Qufu – Beijing – Xi’an – Chengdu – Chongqing – Yangtze Cruise – Yichang – Wuhan – Guilin – Hong Kong

This comprehensive tour takes you across China, from cosmopolitan Shanghai to historic Beijing and Xi’an, the mountainous landscapes of Sichuan, the scenic Li River in Guilin and the bustling streets of Hong Kong. Along the way, you’ll visit imperial palaces, classical gardens, ancient temples and some of China’s finest museums. A three-night cruise through the Three Gorges of the Yangtze River adds another dimension to the journey.

On this fully guided luxury tour of China by train, you’ll travel between the cities exclusively by high-speed train, avoiding air travel-related hassles. Travelling by train also offers a closer look at the countryside.

Important Features

• Small group size – average 15, maximum 20
• Expert guides handpicked by company owners
• Inter-city travel by high-speed train
• No forced shopping stops
• Quality meals at non-tourist restaurants
• Unlimited bottled water during group activities
• Outside cabin on or above bridge deck for Yangtze cruise
• Exclusive Yangtze cruise amenity package
• Complimentary Wi-Fi on cruise ship and in all hotels
• Access to sections of the Forbidden City omitted by most tour operators
• Great Wall visit at Mutianyu – cable car rides included
• Full-day outing to Longji terraced rice fields

Options Available

• Peking Opera performance in Beijing
• Tang Dynasty cultural show in Xi’an
• Traditional face-changing performance in Chengdu

Classic China by Train Itinerary

Meal Code: B = breakfast / L = lunch / D = dinner

Day 1/Thu: Departing for Shanghai
Depart from a city of your choice, losing a day upon crossing the International Date Line.

Day 2/Fri: Arrival in Shanghai
Meet our driver on arrival for your transfer to the hotel. You’ll have the remainder of the day at leisure. The guide will contact you in the evening.

Day 3/Sat: Shanghai (B/L/D)
With a population of nearly 25 million, Shanghai is China’s largest city and a major centre of international trade and commerce. Its modern skyline contrasts with historical landmarks that reflect the city’s colourful past.

We begin our day with a visit to Jade Buddha Temple in an old neighbourhood. We then walk along the famous Bund, a waterfront promenade with a fascinating history.

After lunch, we stroll through People’s Park and adjacent People’s Square in the heart of the city. Both occupy the site of the former Shanghai Racecourse, which opened in 1862.

We wrap up the day’s sightseeing with a tour of the exquisite Yu Garden in the old town centre.

Day 4/Sun: Shanghai (B)
Today is a free day.

If you are interested in Chinese art and history, Shanghai Museum East in Pudong would be an excellent place to spend half a day. The museum houses outstanding collections of ancient bronzes, ceramics, jade, paintings and calligraphy. The original Shanghai Museum at People’s Square now focuses mainly on special exhibitions.

The Shanghai Jewish Refugees Museum and Nanwaitan Fabric Market, known for its numerous tailor shops, are also recommended.

Day 5/Mon: Shanghai – Hangzhou (B/L)
The rail journey to Hangzhou this morning takes less than an hour (G221, 09:00/09:45).

Hangzhou is one of China’s great historic cities, renowned for its scenic West Lake, classical gardens, ancient temples and rich cultural heritage.

We begin our sightseeing with a short cruise on West Lake, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that has inspired poets, artists and emperors for centuries. The lake is surrounded by temples, pagodas, gardens and willow-lined paths. Among its best-known landmarks are the Broken Bridge, Su Causeway and Leifeng Pagoda.

We then proceed to Guo’s Villa (Guo Zhuang), one of Hangzhou’s finest private gardens. Located near West Lake, the garden features classical pavilions, rockeries and ponds arranged in the traditional Chinese style.

Our first stop after lunch is Lingyin Temple, also known as the Temple of the Soul’s Retreat. Founded in 328 CE by the Indian monk Huili, it is one of China’s most important Buddhist temples. The temple stands among forested hills and rocky cliffs near Feilai Peak (Flying Peak).

We conclude the day’s sightseeing at the China National Silk Museum on the southern shore of West Lake. The world’s largest museum dedicated to silk, it houses textiles dating from the Neolithic period to modern times, including rare silk fragments, imperial robes and archaeological finds from Silk Road sites. The museum is also a leading centre for textile conservation and research.

Optional: Impression West Lake Show

Impression West Lake is an outdoor evening performance staged on West Lake. Directed by renowned filmmaker Zhang Yimou, the production combines music, dance, lighting and special effects on a submerged stage, creating the illusion of performers moving across the water. Drawing on local legends, including the story of the White Snake, the show presents traditional Chinese themes through modern theatrical techniques.

The performance is not included in the tour price but may be arranged subject to availability.

Day 6/Tue: Hangzhou – Suzhou (B/L/D)
After breakfast, we drive 30 minutes to Longjing Village, where the famous Longjing green tea is produced. We’ll explore the rolling tea plantations and learn about the history and production of Chinese tea.

Afterwards, we return to the city for a tour of Hangzhou Botanical Garden, a large garden featuring a wide variety of plants and seasonal flower displays. It is also a popular place for locals to enjoy leisurely walks.

The late afternoon train ride to Suzhou takes less than an hour.

Day 7/Wed: Suzhou – Qufu (B/L/D)
Ancient Suzhou is best known for its classical gardens, canals and silk industry. With its network of canals and waterways, Suzhou is often referred to as the “Venice of the East.”

Our sightseeing in Suzhou includes historic Tiger Hill, Humble Administrator’s Garden and a short canal cruise.

The late afternoon train to Qufu takes approximately three and a half hours.

Day 8/Thu: Qufu (B/L)
Qufu is the birthplace of Confucius (551–479 BCE), whose teachings profoundly influenced Chinese civilization and much of East Asia. The city’s three principal Confucian sites, the Temple of Confucius, the Kong Family Mansion and the Cemetery of Confucius, together form a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

We begin our sightseeing at the Kong Family Mansion, which served as the residence of Confucius’s descendants for centuries.

We then proceed to the Cemetery of Confucius, also known as Confucius Forest, where Confucius and generations of his descendants are buried. The extensive grounds are dotted with ancient trees, tombstones and monuments. If time permits, we will visit a nearby village.

Afterwards, we tour the impressive Temple of Confucius, one of China’s largest and most important temple complexes. Its courtyards contain grand halls, elaborate gateways, ancient cypresses and stone steles recording centuries of history.

Day 9/Fri: Qufu – Beijing (B/L)
Enjoy some free time before riding the bullet train to Beijing (2 hours 20 minutes). Transfer to the hotel on arrival. The balance of the day is at leisure.

The capital of China, Beijing is a major cultural, educational and political centre with a population exceeding 20 million. One of China’s great historic cities, it served as the imperial capital for much of the past eight centuries. Beijing is renowned for its magnificent palaces, temples, ancient city gates and other historical landmarks, many of which date back to the Ming (1368–1644) and Qing (1644–1912) dynasties.

Day 10/Sat: Beijing (B/L/D)
We begin today with a visit to the Forbidden City, officially known as the Palace Museum. This vast imperial complex served as the residence and administrative centre of the emperors of the Ming (1368–1644) and Qing (1644–1912) dynasties. Built between 1406 and 1420, it comprises approximately 980 buildings spread over 72 hectares (180 acres). Its traditional Chinese palatial architecture influenced palace design throughout East Asia. Although the Qing Dynasty fell in 1912, the last emperor, Puyi, was allowed to remain in the Forbidden City until his expulsion in 1924. The Palace Museum opened the following year. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987, the Forbidden City is one of the world’s largest and best-preserved complexes of ancient wooden buildings.

Next is Tian’anmen Square, measuring approximately 880 metres from north to south and 500 metres from east to west. Tian’anmen Gate stands at its northern end, with the Monument to the People’s Heroes near the centre. The Great Hall of the People and the National Museum of China flank the square to the west and east, respectively, while Chairman Mao’s Mausoleum and Qianmen (Front Gate) lie to the south. Since the May Fourth Movement of 1919, Tian’anmen Square and its surroundings have been associated with major political events and demonstrations, including the pro-democracy protests of 1989.

Our afternoon sightseeing takes us to the Temple of Heaven, another UNESCO World Heritage Site. Located in southeastern Beijing, this vast complex was where Ming and Qing emperors performed elaborate ceremonies and offered sacrifices to Heaven, praying for good harvests and the well-being of the empire. Construction began in 1406 under the Yongle Emperor and was completed in 1420. The complex was subsequently expanded and renovated during the Qing Dynasty. Covering 273 hectares (674 acres), the Temple of Heaven is nearly four times the size of the Forbidden City.

The Hongqiao Pearl Market is located across the street from the Temple of Heaven. Known for its freshwater pearls, jewellery and other merchandise, it attracts both local and international shoppers. If interested, you may ask the guide to drop you off there after sightseeing, but you will need to return to the hotel independently by taxi.

Dinner tonight features Peking roast duck, one of Beijing’s best-known dishes. Traditionally roasted until the skin is crisp, the duck is carved tableside and served with thin pancakes, scallions, cucumber and a savoury sauce.

Day 11/Sun: Beijing (B/L)
After an early breakfast, we set out on a full-day excursion to the Great Wall at Mutianyu, approximately 75 kilometres northeast of central Beijing.

The Great Wall is one of China’s most impressive engineering achievements. Its earliest sections date back to the 7th century BCE, when individual states built defensive walls against rival states and nomadic groups. Following China’s unification in 221 BCE, the First Emperor, Qin Shi Huang, ordered existing fortifications to be connected and extended. Successive dynasties continued to build and maintain defensive walls, but the most extensive reconstruction took place during the Ming Dynasty (1368–1644), when much of the brick-and-stone Wall familiar to visitors today was built.

Stretching across northern China, the Great Wall was intended to defend against incursions from the north, regulate border crossings and facilitate military communications. Despite its formidable appearance, it was never an impenetrable barrier, as demonstrated by the Mongol conquest of China in the 13th century under Genghis Khan and his successors, including Kublai Khan.

The Mutianyu section, originally established in the 6th century and substantially rebuilt during the Ming Dynasty, is known for its well-preserved watchtowers and mountain scenery. Cable car rides are included, allowing visitors to spend more time exploring the Wall itself.

Day 12/Mon: Beijing – Xi’an (B/L)
We begin our sightseeing with a visit to a traditional hutong neighbourhood. Hutongs are narrow alleyways lined with siheyuan, traditional courtyard houses typically enclosed by buildings on four sides. The term hutong dates back to the Yuan Dynasty (1271–1368) and is believed to derive from a Mongolian word meaning “water well,” reflecting the importance of wells as gathering places in early settlements.

Next is the Summer Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of China’s finest imperial gardens. Originally known as the Garden of Clear Ripples, much of the complex was destroyed by British and French forces in 1860 during the Second Opium War. Reconstruction began in 1886, and the garden was renamed Yiheyuan (Garden of Nurtured Harmony). Covering approximately 290 hectares, the Summer Palace is dominated by Longevity Hill and Kunming Lake, with more than 3,000 bays of traditional buildings spread throughout the grounds.

After lunch, we board a high-speed train to Xi’an (approximately 4 hours 20 minutes). The journey takes us through the North China Plain, passing farmland, villages and rapidly developing cities. China’s extensive high-speed rail network, built largely over the past two decades, has transformed intercity travel, making long-distance journeys faster and more convenient.

Day 13/Tue: Xi’an (B/L)
With a history spanning more than 3,000 years, Xi’an served as the capital of several Chinese dynasties, including the Han (206 BCE–220 CE) and Tang (618–907). It was also the eastern terminus of the ancient Silk Road, a network of trade routes connecting China with Central Asia and regions as far west as the Mediterranean.

We spend the morning visiting the Terracotta Army, located approximately 30 kilometres east of Xi’an. Discovered by local farmers in 1974, this extraordinary collection of life-sized terracotta warriors and horses was created to guard the tomb of Qin Shi Huang, China’s first emperor (221–210 BCE), in the afterlife. The site is one of the greatest archaeological discoveries of the 20th century and has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

After lunch, we return to the city for a stroll along the ancient city wall. Originally built in 1370 during the Ming Dynasty, it is one of China’s best-preserved city walls. The wall runs approximately 13.7 kilometres around the old city, enclosing an area of 14 square kilometres. Standing 12 metres high, it measures between 15 and 18 metres thick at its base.

Day 14/Wed: Xi’an – Chengdu (B/L/D)
Morning sightseeing begins at Xi’an Museum. One of the city’s leading cultural institutions, Xi’an Museum houses more than 110,000 historical artefacts, including ancient bronzes, ceramics, Buddhist sculptures and works of art spanning several thousand years of Chinese history. The museum complex also encompasses the Small Wild Goose Pagoda, built during the Tang dynasty (618–907), and the historic Jianfu Temple grounds. Together, these attractions offer a fascinating introduction to Xi’an’s rich cultural heritage and its importance as one of China’s great ancient capitals.

We then visit the Great Mosque in the old town centre and the adjacent Muslim Quarter. The mosque was established in the 8th century, although most of the surviving complex dates from the Ming dynasty (1368–1644), with further additions during the Qing dynasty (1644–1912). Unlike many mosques in the Middle East, the Great Mosque is predominantly Chinese in architectural style, with traditional courtyards, pavilions and tiled roofs rather than the domes and minarets commonly associated with Islamic architecture elsewhere.

This afternoon, we travel by high-speed train to Chengdu, the capital of Sichuan Province. Situated on the fertile Chengdu Plain, the city is known for its rich history, distinctive cuisine and relaxed lifestyle. The surrounding region has long been called the “Land of Abundance,” owing to its agricultural productivity.

Archaeological discoveries at Sanxingdui and Jinsha reveal that the Chengdu region was home to a sophisticated Bronze Age civilization long before the Qin conquest of the ancient state of Shu in 316 BCE.

Day 15/Thu: Chengdu (B/L)
Morning sightseeing takes us to the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, one of China’s leading centres for giant panda conservation and research. Native to the mountainous regions of south-central China, the giant panda is easily recognized by its distinctive black-and-white markings. Although classified as a carnivore, it feeds almost exclusively on bamboo, spending much of its waking time eating. Giant pandas are generally solitary animals, and females usually give birth to one or two cubs after a gestation period of approximately five months. Newborn cubs are blind, nearly hairless and weigh only about 100 to 150 grams.

We spend much of the afternoon at Jinsha Site Museum, built around an important archaeological site discovered accidentally by construction workers in February 2001. Dating primarily from approximately 1200 to 650 BCE, Jinsha was a major centre of the ancient Shu civilization that flourished in the Chengdu region during the Bronze Age.

Excavations have uncovered thousands of artefacts made of gold, bronze, jade, ivory and stone, providing valuable insight into the religious beliefs, artistic achievements and daily life of this ancient society. Among the most celebrated discoveries is the exquisite gold ornament known as the Sun and Immortal Birds, which has become a symbol of China’s cultural heritage.

Jinsha shares many cultural characteristics with the earlier Sanxingdui civilization, whose principal archaeological site lies about 50 kilometres northeast of Chengdu. Archaeologists generally regard Jinsha as a later centre of the ancient Shu civilization, reflecting a shift in political and cultural activity towards the Chengdu Plain.

We conclude our sightseeing at Wangjianglou Park, known for its bamboo groves, traditional gardens and historic riverside tower. The park commemorates Xue Tao (768–831), one of the most celebrated female poets of the Tang dynasty. A stop at a traditional Chengdu teahouse offers a glimpse of the city’s relaxed lifestyle.

Day 16/Fri: Chengdu – Chongqing (B/L/D)
After breakfast, we transfer to the railway station for our high-speed train to Chongqing, arriving around midday.

Situated at the confluence of the Yangtze and Jialing rivers, Chongqing is one of China’s largest cities and a major economic centre in western China. Built across steep hills overlooking two great rivers, the city is famous for its dramatic skyline, multi-level streets and distinctive cuisine. Chongqing also played an important role in modern Chinese history, serving as the wartime capital of China during the Second Sino-Japanese War (1937–1945).

Following lunch, we visit China Three Gorges Museum, whose extensive collections trace the history and culture of the upper Yangtze region, including the ancient Ba civilization and the enormous changes brought about by the Three Gorges Dam.

Across People’s Square stands Chongqing People’s Great Hall, an imposing landmark completed in 1954. Inspired by traditional Chinese architecture, the building is one of the city’s best-known landmarks.

We continue to Jiefangbei, Chongqing’s bustling commercial centre, where modern skyscrapers, shopping streets and lively public spaces reflect the city’s rapid development. Time permitting, we also visit nearby Shibati, a historic neighbourhood of steep stone stairways and traditional buildings that offers a glimpse of old Chongqing.

After dinner, we stop at Hongyadong, an 11-storey riverside complex inspired by traditional stilt-house architecture. Illuminated after dark, its tiered buildings against the steep riverbank create one of Chongqing’s most striking night scenes.

We then transfer to the cruise terminal to board our Yangtze River ship.

Day 17/Sat: Yangtze Cruise (B/L/D)
At approximately 6,380 kilometres, the Yangtze is Asia’s longest river and the third longest in the world, after the Nile and Amazon. Rising on the Tibetan Plateau, it flows eastward across China before emptying into the East China Sea near Shanghai. For thousands of years, the river has served as a vital transportation artery and supported the development of Chinese civilization.

Today’s shore excursion takes us to Shibaozhai, one of the most distinctive historical landmarks along the Yangtze. Situated on a rocky hill overlooking the river, the site takes its name from a local legend that the enormous rock was a precious stone bestowed by a goddess.

A Buddhist temple was established on the hill during the Qing dynasty (1644–1912). Its most striking feature is a wooden pagoda built against the cliff in the early 19th century, providing access to the temple above. Originally nine storeys high, the pagoda was extended to 12 storeys in 1956. The entire complex is now protected from the rising waters of the Three Gorges Reservoir by a surrounding embankment.

Day 18/Sun: Yangtze Cruise (B/L/D)
Today’s cruise takes us through some of the most spectacular scenery along the Yangtze River, including Qutang Gorge and Wu Gorge, two of the celebrated Three Gorges.

Qutang Gorge, the shortest of the three at approximately eight kilometres, is renowned for its narrow passage and towering cliffs. At its western entrance, the imposing Kuimen Gate has long been regarded as one of the most dramatic sights along the Yangtze.

Stretching approximately 45 kilometres, Wu Gorge is famous for its steep, forested mountains and the legendary Twelve Peaks, including Goddess Peak. The scenery here has inspired Chinese poets and painters for centuries.

We also enjoy a shore excursion into Goddess Stream, a narrow tributary surrounded by steep cliffs and lush vegetation. Travelling aboard a smaller sightseeing boat, we venture into a landscape that is inaccessible to larger cruise ships.

The remainder of the day is spent enjoying the river scenery as our ship continues downstream towards the Three Gorges Dam.

Day 19/Mon: Yichang – Wuhan (B/L/D)
This morning we visit the Three Gorges Dam, the world’s largest hydroelectric power station by installed capacity. Completed in stages between 1994 and 2012, the massive project spans the Yangtze River near Yichang. Its reservoir extends approximately 600 kilometres upstream, providing flood control, hydroelectric power and improved navigation. The project has also been controversial because of its environmental impact and the displacement of more than a million residents.

We disembark around noon and transfer to the railway station for our two-hour high-speed train journey to Wuhan, the capital of Hubei Province.

Due to time constraints, a boxed lunch will be provided for the train journey.

Day 20/Tue: Wuhan – Guilin (B/L/D)
Wuhan, the capital of Hubei Province, is a major economic and transportation hub in central China. Situated at the confluence of the Yangtze and Han rivers, the city was formed through the consolidation of three historic towns: Wuchang, Hankou and Hanyang. Wuhan is also known for its numerous lakes and parks, including the expansive East Lake.

This morning we visit Hubei Provincial Museum, one of China’s leading archaeological museums. Its outstanding collections include artefacts excavated from the tomb of Marquis Yi of Zeng, who died in 433 BCE. The most celebrated discovery is an extraordinary set of 65 bronze chime bells, capable of producing a remarkably wide range of musical notes. If available, we may attend a performance using replicas of these ancient instruments.

After an early lunch, we board a high-speed train for Guilin. The journey takes approximately five hours, passing through the changing landscapes of central and southern China. We arrive in Guilin in the early evening and transfer to our hotel.

A relatively small city by Chinese standards, Guilin has long been celebrated for its extraordinary landscape of limestone hills, winding rivers and lush greenery. Its name literally means “forest of sweet osmanthus,” a reference to the fragrant osmanthus trees that grow abundantly throughout the city.

Day 21/Wed: Guilin (B/L)
Today we take a full-day excursion to the spectacular Longji Rice Terraces, approximately 80 kilometres north of Guilin. Known as the Dragon’s Backbone, Longji is famous for its intricate terraces carved into steep mountainsides over centuries by local farmers, particularly those belonging to the Zhuang and Yao ethnic minorities.

Developed mainly between the Yuan (1271–1368) and Qing (1644–1912) dynasties, the terraces extend across a mountainous landscape at elevations ranging from approximately 300 to 1,100 metres. The scenery changes dramatically with the seasons: flooded terraces reflect the sky during spring planting, lush green rice covers the hillsides in summer, and the fields turn golden before the autumn harvest.

Our excursion involves hiking along stone paths and steps through the terraced fields and traditional villages, with opportunities to admire the scenery and learn about local rural life.

Optional Tea Farm Visit

Time permitting, an optional late-afternoon visit to the Guilin Tea Science and Research Institute may be arranged for a nominal fee, subject to a minimum of six participants. Established in 1956, the institute conducts research into tea cultivation and production. Visitors can explore its tea plantations and learn about the processing and cultural significance of Chinese tea.

Day 22/Thu: Guilin (B/L)
We begin the day with a cruise down the Li River, one of China’s most celebrated scenic waterways. The 83-kilometre stretch between Guilin and Yangshuo winds through a spectacular landscape of limestone peaks, bamboo groves and picturesque villages that has inspired Chinese poets and painters for centuries.

After approximately five hours on the river, we disembark in Yangshuo following lunch on board and return to Guilin by road.

We conclude our sightseeing with a visit to Fubo Hill, a limestone peak rising approximately 63 metres above its surroundings. Located beside the Li River, the hill offers fine views of the city and surrounding landscape. Those interested can walk back to the hotel along the river, enjoying Guilin’s beautiful scenery at a more leisurely pace.

Day 23/Fri: Guilin – Hong Kong (B)
Enjoy a free morning to explore Guilin on your own. In the afternoon, we travel to Hong Kong by high-speed train (approximately three hours).

Hong Kong, meaning “fragrant harbour,” is one of China’s two special administrative regions, the other being Macau. Located on the southern coast of China, it is one of the world’s leading financial and commercial centres, renowned for its spectacular skyline, bustling harbour and distinctive blend of Chinese and Western influences.

Hong Kong was under British rule from 1842 until its return to China in 1997. Under the principle of “one country, two systems,” it maintains its own currency, legal system, immigration and customs arrangements. Its history as an international trading port has helped shape one of Asia’s most cosmopolitan cities.

Day 24/Sat: Hong Kong (B/L)
Our morning sightseeing begins with a ride aboard the famous Star Ferry across Victoria Harbour from Tsim Sha Tsui to Central. Operating since 1888, the ferry offers splendid views of Hong Kong’s celebrated skyline.

We then explore Central, Hong Kong’s principal business and financial district, home to major international banks, corporate headquarters and government institutions.

Next, we ascend Victoria Peak, the highest point on Hong Kong Island at 552 metres above sea level. From the popular viewing areas near the summit, we enjoy sweeping views of Victoria Harbour, the densely built city below and the surrounding islands.

We make a brief stop at Repulse Bay, one of Hong Kong’s most prestigious residential neighbourhoods, before enjoying a farewell lunch at a local restaurant.

The afternoon is free for independent exploration. Your local guide will be happy to offer suggestions on places to visit and things to do.

Day 25/Sun: Returning Home (B)
Transfer to Hong Kong International Airport independently for your return flight. For convenience, we recommend taking a taxi directly from the hotel.

Dates and Prices

* Land Only price excludes international airfare. Please contact us for a fare quote.

Classic China by Train – Frequently Asked Questions

How physically demanding is this tour?

This is an active sightseeing tour requiring a reasonable level of fitness. Participants should be comfortable walking approximately 8 kilometres (5 miles) a day, sometimes over uneven ground or up and down stairs. The Longji Rice Terraces and certain historical sites involve more strenuous walking.

What is the advantage of travelling by train?

China’s extensive high-speed rail network offers fast, comfortable and reliable transportation between major cities. Travelling by train also avoids repeated airport transfers, security procedures and flight delays. Second-class seating is included.

How much luggage can I bring?

Each traveller is limited to one checked-size suitcase weighing no more than 15 kg, with total dimensions not exceeding 158 cm, plus one carry-on bag weighing no more than 7 kg. There is no luggage handling service. Travellers must be able to manage their own bags, including boarding trains and using station escalators or stairs.

What is the accommodation like?

The tour features carefully selected 5-star hotels in convenient locations, along with a comfortable river cruise ship for the three-night Yangtze journey.

Are meals included?

Most meals are included, as indicated by the meal codes in the daily itinerary. We favour good local restaurants serving authentic regional cuisine rather than establishments catering primarily to tour groups.

Do I need a visa to visit China and Hong Kong?

Visa requirements depend on your nationality and the passport you hold. Mainland China and Hong Kong have separate immigration arrangements, and eligibility for visa-free entry may differ. Travellers should confirm the requirements applicable to their passports before departure.

Are there shopping stops or additional charges?

There are no forced shopping stops. Scheduled sightseeing and entrance fees are included. Optional activities and personal expenses are extra.

Is travel insurance necessary?

Comprehensive travel insurance is strongly recommended, including emergency medical coverage, evacuation, trip cancellation and interruption. Travellers should ensure their policies cover all destinations and activities included in the tour.