Essence of China: From Hong Kong to Beijing

Itinerary

• Day 1: Hong Kong, Arrival

  Upon landing in Hong Kong, your personal tour guide will greet you at the airport and escort you to your hotel via private transfer. The remainder of today is yours to explore this dynamic city, a captivating blend of East and West.

  • Hong Kong

• Day 2: Hong Kong, Victoria Peak Circle Walk

  Your guide will lead you on a discovery journey of the city's highlights. Enjoy a sampan boat tour to explore the floating community of Aberdeen, followed by visits to the picturesque Repulse Bay and the bustling Stanley Market. Elevate your experience with a Peak Tram ride to Victoria Peak, the highest point on Hong Kong Island. A 1.5-hour Peak Circle Walk afterward will treat you to the world-famous vista of Victoria Harbor.

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  • Hong Kong

• Day 3: Hong Kong - Guilin

  Savor a leisurely morning before you are transferred to the railway station for a swift high-speed train journey to Guilin.

  Arriving in 3.5 hours, meet your new guide for a private transfer to your hotel. The rest of the day is at leisure to settle into your hotel and relax in your scenic surroundings.

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  • Guilin

• Day 4: Guilin - Yangshuo, Li River Cruise

  Focus today on a mesmerizing Li River cruise from Guilin to Yangshuo, which showcases crystal-clear waters, iconic karst hills, lush paddy fields, and quaint rural villages. Your arrival in Yangshuo, usually between 1:30 pm and 2 pm (subject to water conditions), marks the beginning of a leisurely walk through the vibrant West Street. After that, enjoy a private transfer to your Yangshuo hotel, with the rest of today at leisure.

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  • Yangshuo

• Day 5: Yangshuo, Sample the Delights of Country Life

  Today, experience the lifestyle of the locals and enjoy the serene beauty in Yangshuo's countryside. Kick off with a join-in cooking class, learning how to prepare a variety of fresh ingredients and create authentic local dishes under the guidance of your chef-instructor. You'll have the reward of enjoying your culinary creations for lunch.

  In the afternoon, immerse yourself in the stunning countryside scenery and peaceful atmosphere. Traverse vast farmlands, explore the secluded Jiuxian Ancient Village, and walk leisurely along the picturesque Yulong River.

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  • Yangshuo

• Day 6: Yangshuo - Guilin - Xi'an

  Following breakfast, drive back to Guilin and venture into Reed Flute Cave. Grotesque stalactites, stalagmites, rock columns, stone curtains, and other limestone formations make for an exquisite showcase of Karst topography beautifully illuminated by colorful lights. Continue driving to Guilin airport for your flight to the historical Xi'an.

  You will be collected from the airport on arrival by your personal guide and transferred into the city center of historical Xi'an. Settle into your hotel and enjoy the remainder of today at leisure.

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  • Xi'an

• Day 7: Xi'an, Terracotta Warriors

  Today is a big day of exploring the renowned 2,000-year-old Terracotta Army, where you'll unravel the tales of these life-sized warriors and their master, Qin Shi Huang, China's inaugural emperor. Upon returning to the city center, wander through the lively Muslim Quarter and savor diverse flavors of Muslim street food.

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  • Xi'an

• Day 8: Xi'an - Beijing

  After breakfast, head for the well-preserved Gao's Grand Courtyard to learn how Chinese aristocratic families lived centuries ago. Your visit will be spiced up with an engaging calligraphy lesson, holding the brush, mastering basic strokes, and creating your own masterpieces.

  Later, travel onward by a high-speed train to China's capital city, Beijing. Upon arrival, your local guide will greet you, arranging a private transfer to your hotel.

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  • Beijing

• Day 9: Beijing, Forbidden City

  Commence your Beijing city exploration at Tiananmen Square, an iconic symbol of China's history and politics. Next, come to today's highlight - Forbidden City, an immense imperial palace that housed 24 Chinese emperors for five centuries. Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of history and marvel at the sprawling complex. End the exciting day with a climb up to Jingshan Hill, offering a splendid perspective of Beijing's ancient and contemporary landscapes.

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  • Beijing

• Day 10: Beijing, the Great Wall

  Following breakfast, depart on a 2-hour drive to Mutianyu, a less crowded but equally spectacular section of the Great Wall. Ascend the wall effortlessly via cable car and hike along its historic ramparts, absorbing the awe-inspiring vistas.

  On the return drive to the city, make a detour to Changling Tomb, the most extensive and well-preserved among Beijing's 13 Ming Dynasty imperial tombs.

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  • Beijing

• Day 11: Beijing, Hutong Walking Tour

  The highly-revered Temple of Heaven is the first stop of your discovery journey today. At the imperial sacrificial site, stroll around the circular architectural splendor, watch or even join locals in their daily exercises like performing Tai Chi, and soak up the vibrant morning atmosphere. As you explore Beijing's historic Hutong district, walk into a traditional courtyard-style home and enjoy a homemade lunch with the welcoming host family.

  This afternoon, unwind with a scenic boat cruise on Kunming Lake, nestled within the magnificent Summer Palace. Splendid gardens, majestic temples, and opulent palaces create an idyllic and harmonious retreat.

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  • Beijing

• Day 12: Beijing, Departure

  Gather your cherished memories and pack your belongings before taking a private transfer to the airport for your flight home. If departing from Daxing International Airport, spare some time to admire its innovative design, adding an extra touch of fascination to your journey.

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