China
Rediscovering an Ancient Empire

Travel from the mighty streets of Beijing, to the terraced fields and bamboo forests of Guilin, to the proud city walls of Xi'an; encountering many of China's historical, rural, and modern faces on this private China tour.

China Trip Overview

One of the oldest continuous civilizations on earth, the region now known as China has a rich and colorful history. During the expansionist decades of the 19th century, Westerners were long fascinated by China's enigmatic culture and customs, often difficult to penetrate or understand. Following the country's self-imposed isolation during the first half of the 20th century, the veil was lifted, revealing a people eager to embrace the transformative elements sweeping the rest of the world. Today, China is on the verge of another cultural revolution, this one, however, pulsates with a free-market optimism never before seen. Yet, scratch the surface, and you still find traditional ways of life among the tranquil countryside, and people who have been living with the rhythm of the land for millennia.

Private China Tour Itinerary at a Glance

SAMPLE ITINERARY: Other private customized options are available.

Days 1-3: Meet in Beijing and explore the beautiful Temple of Heaven, Tiananmen Square, and the Forbidden City. Explore the hutong alleyways of old Beijing aboard pedi-cabs, and spend a night in an architect-designed hotel with private access to the Great Wall.

Days 4-5: Fly to Xi'an and experience the archaeological perfection of the Terra Cotta Warriors. Stroll along the city's Ming Dynasty walls, and visit the famed Big Goose Pagoda. Explore The Great Mosque,The Muslim Quarter, and the Shaanxi History Museum.

Days 6-9: Fly to Guilin for journeys through its rice fields and walks into the serenity of its bamboo forests. Enjoy a river cruise on the Li, tour an old noodle factory and be welcomed into historic Fuli to experience traditional artwork and fishing practices. Hike through the ancient terraces of Longsheng. Optional biking exploration among the villages of Aishan and Yongcun, surrounded by gorgeous regional flora and the faces of local farmers.

Days 10-12: Fly to Shanghai and explore the “Queen of the Orient.” Discover old-world charm and a colonial past in the backstreets of Shanghai. Farewell dinner and flights home.

The Private Collection Advantage

  • Independent travel at its best. With your own exclusive party of family or friends, you'll enjoy itineraries developed from our years of experience.
  • Your dates, your friends. You chose your dates and traveling companions, and let us do the rest!
  • Reconnect in remarkable places. What better way to celebrate important milestones than with family and friends in amazing places, with all of the details handled for you so you can simply relax and enjoy each other’s company?
  • Do your own thing. Customize your journey to indulge your most amazing travel fantasies.
  • Travel with Trusted Leaders in Adventure Travel. Recognized by readers of Travel + Leisure magazine as a Top 10 "World's Best Tour Operator and Safari Outfitter".

ENRICHING, MEMORABLE, FAMILY-FRIENDLY JOURNEYS

Traveling with the kids or grandkids? Many of our Private Collection journeys can be customized with fun activities for the entire family. Perhaps your trip to China will include Tai Chi lessons in the park, or a friendly game of ping-pong at a Beijing Olympics venue. Wherever your destination, you can be sure your Boundless Journeys private family adventure will include activities that encourage discovery, days that are active and engaging, and plenty of options and flexibility – all with the best kid-friendly guides who are enthusiastic and inspiring. Traveling with Boundless Journeys makes it easy to enjoy what a family vacation should be all about – quality time and a whole lot of fun and adventure. For more information call 1-800-941-8010, or e-mail info@boundlessjourneys.com. Our trip specialists are happy to help you plan the perfect trip for your family!

Group Size

1+ guests

Trip Rating (1 Easiest - 5 Most Strenuous)

Description of Trip Ratings

Adventure travel may involve exotic destinations, unusual levels of physical exertion, and activities that may be new to you. We want to make sure that you choose the adventure that's right for you from our many one-of-a-kind trips. Each trip is rated on a scale of 1 to 5, with 1 being the easiest, and 5 being the most strenuous. A few of our trips have had a “+” added to the number, indicating something that falls in between. Our Trip Ratings may be found on the trip schedule and on our website. Our detailed itineraries provide additional information on what to expect on the trip you are considering (detailed itineraries are available by mail, fax, or e-mail; or you can find them on our website, www.boundlessjourneys.com).We encourage you to call one of our travel experts with any questions or concerns that you may have. We are always happy to assist you in any way that we can.

EASIEST 1

Our easiest trips are generally hotel-based cultural and nature journeys that typically offer light activity. Optional walks and hikes (approximately 2 to 4 hours) through gentle terrain with little elevation gain or loss. Altitude is typically not a factor on these tours. Other activities, such as snorkeling or sea kayaking, are optional. Examples: Indochina, Galapagos Islands Cruise, Tanzania.

EASY TO MODERATE 2

Hotel nights and/or deluxe, safari-style camping. Walking, hiking (approximately 3 to 5 hours), kayaking, or other activities on most days. Trails and paths are through rolling countryside, with occasional steep trails with up to 1,000 feet of elevation gain. Many of our hotel-based walking trips are in this category. Examples: Tuscany & Umbria, Morocco, Costa Rica.

MODERATE 3

Full day hikes (approximately 4 to 6 hours) most days on unpaved trails and paths through hilly terrain with typical elevation gains and losses of 1,000 to 2,000 feet. There may be occasional short steep sections of trail. Examples: Canadian Rockies, Scotland, Spain.

MODERATE TO STRENUOUS 4

Full day hikes (approximately 5 to 7 hours) through mountainous terrain with significant elevation gains and losses (2,000 to 3,000 feet). Terrain may be rugged with uneven footpaths. The average altitude is generally no more than 12,000 feet. Options are limited. These trips typically involve some camping or simple accommodations.Examples: Tour du Mont Blanc, Peru Trek.

MOST STRENUOUS 5

Full-day trekking (approximately 6 to 8 hours) through rugged mountainous terrain with steep climbs and descents and one or more of the following present: elevation gains and losses of as much as 4,000 feet, altitude that exceeds 12,000 feet, and rugged uneven footpaths. These trips typically offer few options and include camping.

Activity Details

Daily walking tours, 2-4 hours per day; two optional moderate day hikes, 3-5 hours per day; optional biking.

Meeting Point

Beijing, China

Departure Point

Shanghai, China

Traveling to and From

Most Convenient Airports:
For arrival: Beijing Capital International Airport, Beijing, China (airport code PEK)

For departure:
Shanghai Pudong International Airport, Shanghai, China (airport code PVG)

Meeting Place and Time:
Beijing Capital International Airport, Beijing, China; upon the arrival of your international flight. Your Boundless Journeys guide will meet you upon arrival of your international flight to Beijing if your arrive on Day 1 of the trip.

Departure Place and Time:
Shanghai Pudong International Airport, Shanghai, China; upon the departure of your international flight. A transfer will be provided to the airport on Day 12 of your trip.

WHAT TO EXPECT

Physical Activity
Boundless Journeys’ trips are designed for energetic and flexible individuals who like to be active and have a spirit of adventure and a positive attitude. Daily activities include easy city and countryside walking of two to five hours on most days. There are two optional moderate hikes offered of three to six hours, and one day of optional biking. Since this is a private trip for just your group of family and friends, there is a certain amount of flexibility to make the days more leisurely or active to suit your travel style.

Preparing for this Trip

It is very important that you realistically assess your physical condition with regard to the demands of this trip. The more well prepared you are for the activities on this trip, the more you will enjoy yourself! Please engage in moderate aerobic activities (walking, jogging, or cycling) for at least 30-45 minutes several times a week for 4-6 weeks before the trip. If you live in a flat area, try to incorporate some stairs into your workout, or use a treadmill with varying incline capability.  Consult your doctor before undertaking any new fitness programs.  

Weather
Beijing, Xi’an, and Guilin, and Shanghai are good destinations all year round, but spring and fall are the best months to travel in these areas. However, trying to predict the weather is always difficult, especially in a country as large and diverse as China. Please keep in mind that the temperatures indicated below are only averages. We encourage you to pack a layered system of clothing that allows you to adjust to changing climates.
The following are average temperatures and rainfall amounts in Beijing:

                 high          low     precip.

April:         67°F        47°F      .7"
May:         78°F        57°F      1.3"
June:        85°F        66°F      3.1"
July:         86°F        72°F      8.8"
August:    85°F        69°F      6.7"
Sept.:        78°F        59°F     2.3"
October:   66°F        47°F      .7"

The following are average temperatures and rainfall amounts in Guilin:

                high          low     precip.

April:         74°F        61°F      9.4"
May:         80°F        67°F      15.3"
June:        88°F        74°F      15.4"
July:         92°F        77°F       8.1"
August:    91°F        75°F       7.9"
Sept.:        89°F        72°F      3.1"
October:   79°F        62°F      2.6"

You may obtain more detailed weather information on www.weatherbase.com.

Highlights of Beijing
Beijing, the capital of China, has been the political and spiritual center of the Middle Kingdom for more than 500 years. With the Forbidden City, the seat of many successive Chinese emperors, at its center, Beijing expands outwards in a mass of wide boulevards, towering high-rises, historic sites, and winding residential alleys. This fast-changing mega-metropolis offers the visitor not only a glimpse into China’s bright future, but also a taste of her rich past. On this trip we visit a selection of Beijing’s most impressive sights, and we also see a side of the capital usually only visited by those who live here. Outside the city looms the magnificent Great Wall, and an obvious highlight of our trip is a hike on this ancient symbol of China.

Old Beijing
The Beijing of bygone years still remains in certain areas of the city, where traditional courtyard residences and small lanes make up neighborhoods not much changed since the Qing Dynasty. We immerse ourselves in the hutongs, exploring them by riding traditional sanlunche (pedicabs).

The Forbidden City
Our tour in Beijing starts at the center itself, when we venture behind the purple walls of the Forbidden City, home to successive emperors of imperial China. Consisting of a rumored 9999 rooms, this massive Ming masterpiece is one room short of the mythical ten thousand rooms of Heaven. Our visit to this long-time seat of power will give you a sense of the grandeur of imperial China.

The Great Wall
In parts more than 2,500 years old, the Great Wall was built to protect Chinese civilization from unruly northern tribes. Instead of a day trip, we overnight at an award-winning boutique hotel with private access to the Wall, allowing us to explore late in the afternoon and early in the morning to avoid the busiest times of day.

Highlights of Xi'an
Xi’an, in the heart of the Yellow River basin, was the city in which Chinese civilization arose and flourished for its first two millennia. Under its former names of Xianyang and Changan, it was the capital of ancient China under the Qin, Han, Tang, and other dynasties. As the eastern terminus of the Silk Road, it was a vibrant center of cultural, religious and economic interaction between East and West. Our time in Xi’an delves into the highlights of its ancient treasures, its rich traditions of Buddhism and Islam, and the unique cuisine and lifestyle of northwest China. We see the Terra Cotta Warriors and other major historical sites of the city, savor its distinctive cuisine, and take time to stroll  or bike along the Ming Dynasty city walls and through the centuries old lanes of the Muslim Quarter.

Highlights of Guilin
Located in China’s rugged southwest, the mountainous terrain of Guangxi and the variety of minorities that reside here have long remained somewhat distinct from the predominant Han China. The Zhuang, China’s largest minority, are largely concentrated in Guangxi, which was renamed the Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region in recognition of this. Besides the ethnic diversity of Guangxi (Miao, Yao, Dong, and a handful of others also reside there), Guangxi is famous for its beautiful limestone karsts, perhaps one of China’s most noteworthy natural landscapes. Cruising down the Li River from Yangshuo to Guilin, one views scenery that seems to be one scroll painting unfurling after another.

Highlights of Shanghai
Except for Hong Kong, Shanghai has a colonial past more intense than that of any other city in China. This legacy gives it a dramatic character, and it is very much alive and visible in the facades of its buildings. But the city is not only a museum of East meeting West on Chinese soil. Overnight, Shanghai has become one of the world’s great modern capitals, the one city that best shows where China is headed at the dawn of the 21st century.

Shanghai has not always been particularly delightful to tour, but that has changed. After the building boom of the 1990’s tore the city apart, new roads, highways, tunnels, bridges, hotels, restaurants, and sights now make Shanghai a city that a visitor can more than comfortably enjoy and explore. Today there are large neighborhoods of foreign architecture, wonderful for a stroll, where Europeans, especially the French, once resided. Shanghai’s great river of commerce, the Huangpu, a tributary of the mighty Yangzi, is lined with a gallery of colonial architecture, known as the Bund, grander than any other in the East, much of it recently refurbished and beckoning the curious visitor. The mansions, garden estates, country clubs, and cathedrals of Westerners who made their fortunes here a century ago pepper the city. Even a synagogue exists, dating from the days of an unparalleled Jewish immigration to China. These are not the typical monuments of China, but they are typical of Shanghai.

At the same time, creations of a strictly Chinese culture prevail. A walk through the chaotic old Chinese city turns up traditional treasures: a teahouse epitomizing old China, a classical Southern-Chinese garden, active temples and ancient pagodas, and even a section of Shanghai’s old city wall. Thus, even if Shanghai’s primary architecture and avenues recall 19th-century Europe rather than old Cathay, this is still a Chinese city to the core.

China Accommodations

Nights 1 & 2:  Guxiang Hotel
Beijing, China

China Tour - Guxiang 20 Hotel, Hutong Hotel, Beijing, ChinaTucked in one of Beijing’s most traditional hutongs, yet well-located for exploring the important sites of Beijing, Guxiang Hotel and its neighborhood offers a peaceful respite from the pace of the city.

 



Night 3:  Commune by the Great Wall

Shuiguan, China

China Tour - Commune by the Great Wall, Beijing Great Wall Hotel, ChinaA unique property, the Commune by the Great Wall is a collection of 42 contemporary homes designed by 12 Asian architects, and received a special prize at the 2002 la Biennale di Venezia. Amenities include a spa, outdoor pool, and private path to access the Great Wall.


Nights 4 & 5:  Tang Paradise Hotel
Xi’an, China

China Tour - Tang Paradise HotelThe Tang Paradise Hotel is located six miles from downtown Xi’an on the shore of beautiful Lake Furong, and has lovely gardens throughout the grounds. The hotel has traditional characteristics of the Tang Dynasty and provides guests with a unique and authentic experience.

 

 

Night 6:  Li’an Lodge
Pin An Village
Longsheng County, Guilin, China

China Tour - Lian LodgeThis truly special lodge sits on top of a mountain, borders a local village, and overlooks magnificent rice terraces. The lodge is an entirely wood structure implementing traditional Chinese building techniques, but offering many western amenities.

 


Night 7:  Sheraton Guilin Hotel

Guilin, China

China Tour - Sheraton GuilinIdeally located alongside the Li River, an area that has been an inspiration to Chinese poets and artists throughout the centuries, this five-star hotel offers an ideal location and many amenities.
 

 

Nights 8 & 9:  Dragon River Retreat
Yangshuo, China

China Tour - Dragon River RetreatThe Dragon River Retreat is located beside the Yulong River, four miles from Yangshuo. It is built in the classic garden style typical of the cultures found south of Yangtze River.

 

 

Nights 10 & 11:  Mansion Hotel
Shanghai, China

China Tour - Mansion Hotel, Shanghai Boutique Hotel, Shanghai, ChinaThis 5-star boutique hotel in Shanghai’s famed French Concession is a member of Small Luxury Hotels of the World, and offers decadently furnished rooms reminiscent of the time when Shanghai was called “Paris of the Orient."


 

China Private Tour Detailed Itinerary

SAMPLE ITINERARY: Other private customized options are available.

DAY 1
Welcome to Beijing


You are greeted at the airport by our local guide upon arrival in Beijing, and taken directly to your hotel. Located in one of Beijing’s famed and fast-disappearing hutongs, traditional courtyard homes connected through a labyrinth of alleyways, our hotel is in an ideal location for an authentic Beijing experience. The afternoon is free to rest or independently explore the neighborhood. Tonight, enjoy a welcome dinner of traditional Chinese cuisine at the Red Capital Club.
Guxiang Hotel, Beijing  

DAY 2
Cultural exploration of Beijing  

Walking – easy, 2-4 hours.

The morning is full as we head out first to visit Tiananmen Square, Beijing’s famed public plaza and the site of many important historical events since the 15th century, when it was built during the Ming Dynasty. Adjacent to Tiananmen, the Forbidden City was once the Imperial Palace for Ming and Qing emperors, spanning 500 years of dynastic rule. We’ll have the morning to explore this World Heritage Site, an enormous complex of palace rooms, museums, and gardens, which were once strictly off limits to the public. The City has about 800 surviving buildings encompassing a rumored 9,999 rooms. Discover the amazing collection of 17th- and 18th-century clocks made by master craftsmen around the world for Qing emperors. Especially impressive are the Chime Clock, 20 feet high, and the fascinating Water Clock. Marvel at the imperial collections housed in the Treasure Hall, including gold and jade dinner services, feather dresses, ivory mats, statuary, royal seals, and many other spectacular curios.

After lunch at a quiet spot overlooking scenic Houhai Lake, we tour Old Beijing’s hutong area. Many hutongs have been razed in recent years to make way for modern buildings. From our seat in a quaint yet comfortable pedicab, we explore these long-established communities and get a feel for what Beijing once looked like. As we cruise through the narrow streets, watch elders at roadside tables intent on a game of mahjong, observe shopkeepers hawking their fare, like jian bing (pancakes) and baozi (steamed buns), and hear calls announcing the arrival of the knife sharpener or cardboard collector.

Late this afternoon, we have a special private visit to Li Songtang’s Museum. Having the distinction of being the first privately owned museum in China (open since summer 2008), Mr. Li’s collection of salvaged architectural pieces collected as buildings were razed over the past 40 years is fast becoming considered a national treasure.

Tonight, enjoy a classic Peking Duck dinner, a Beijing specialty that can be traced back to the thirteenth century and which later became one of the favorite dishes of the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644).
Guxiang Hotel, Beijing  

DAY 3
Exploring Beijing and the Great Wall

Walking – easy, 1-2 hours.

We begin the morning with a visit to the Temple of Heaven. Once used by emperors leaving offerings of grain, silk, and animals for a fruitful harvest, this vast complex of architectural masterpieces is now a lively gathering spot for Beijing residents, to practice Tai Chi, play music, and dance in the morning.

Later this morning, we depart for the famed Great Wall. Though the underlying architecture dates from the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644), the original plan and some construction date back to the Qin Dynasty (221-207 BC). After lunch, we enjoy an easy walk around the area of Juyongguan pass, comprised of a combination of circular and straight walls, along with a castle that once defended the Guangou Valley. This intricate system took more than 200 years to complete, and at its peak had over 10,000 soldiers stationed here. We continue our exploration as the afternoon light grows long, making for fine photographic opportunities.

This evening, we make our home nearby in the uniquely named “Commune by the Great Wall.” A far cry from a traditional commune, this collection of 12 Asian-architect-designed homes is part of the luxury Kempinski hotel collection. Beautifully tucked in a secluded valley, its stylish modern architecture provides a fitting counterpoint to the nearby ancient wall.
Commune by the Great Wall, Shuiguan

DAY 4
Morning Tai Chi; Beijing to Xi’an

Tai Chi lesson – easy, about 1 hour.

This morning, we enjoy a serene lesson in Tai Chi, an ancient martial art practiced in many forms all over China. The synchronized gentle movements are said to restore balance and strength, and our morning practice overlooking the Great Wall is an ideal way to begin the day.

Later this morning we return to Beijing to board an early afternoon flight to Xi’an, one of China’s oldest cities and a member of the renowned “Four Great Ancient Capitals of China”. Arriving in Xi’an, we first visit Wild Goose Pagoda, a symbol of Buddhism built in 709 A.D. So strong was the influence of Buddhism at this time that Daoism gradually adopted many Buddhist rituals to maintain its popularity among the people.

After settling in at our hotel, we gather for a traditional dumpling dinner at one of our favorite local restaurants, before a leisurely stroll through the Muslim Quarter. Here we witness a way of life that is markedly different from that of the Han Chinese. For more than 1,300 years, Muslims have been an integral part of daily live in Xi’an, the eastern terminus of the ancient Silk Road.
Tang Paradise Hotel, Xi’an  

DAY 5
The Terra Cotta Warriors and Xi’an

Optional cycling – easy, 1 hour, and walking – easy, 3-4 hours.

We start our day with an easy one-hour bike ride along Xi’an’s ancient city wall, the most complete city wall remaining in China. History resonates as we pass along its broad ramparts.

Later this morning, we explore the incredible excavations of the Terra Cotta Warriors, an army of thousands of clay figures who were buried with Emperor Qin Shi Huang Di after 210 B.C. One of the last century’s greatest archaeological finds, the warriors were accidentally discovered by farmers, and each of these life-sized figures are as individual in their appearance as their real-life counterparts – no two are alike. Standing inside the gigantic Quonset hut that protects the treasures from the elements, you get a sense for the enormity of the army and the amazing craftwork that went into producing each figure. Scholars estimate that it took 700,000 workers to create the warriors over a 38-year period. You will marvel at the sweeping views across the ranks of soldiers, and we’ll enjoy special access to the lower deck to get a closer look at these unique statues. Later today, we continue on to the Shaanxi History Museum, which houses murals, paintings, pottery, and coins, as well as numerous other bronze, gold, and silver treasures dating from the time when Xi’an was China’s ancient capital. As sunset approaches, there may be time to take a stroll along the Ming Dynasty city walls that still circle the old section of Xi’an.

This evening we are treated to a traditional dumpling banquet, for which Xi’an is famous, featuring numerous varieties of Chinese dumplings sculpted into artful shapes. Following supper, enjoy exploring the city streets and shops surrounding our hotel.
Tang Paradise Hotel, Xi’an

DAY 6
Xi’an to Longsheng via Guilin

Walking – easy to moderate, 2-3 hours.

This morning we fly to Guilin, then drive to the magnificent terraced rice fields of Longsheng, carved into the hillsides over hundreds of years by the local Zhuang and Yao peoples. When flooded, the rice paddies’ reflecting water resembles scales on a dragon’s back, from which the Longji  (“Dragon’s Back”) terraces takes its name. This countryside surrounding Guilin is renowned for spectacular karst formations, which were thrust up from the limestone sea bed that covered the region more than 300 million years ago. We spend the afternoon on an easy hike through the countryside of Longsheng, taking in splendid views and meeting some of the minority hill people along the way.

This evening, we settle into our superb lodge, situated on a mountain overlooking the sculpted rice terraces below. The all-wood lodge is built in traditional style, using tongue-and-groove instead of nails, yet still features modern comforts. Each of the lodge’s sixteen rooms is designed around a different theme, and throughout you’ll find exquisite art and antiques. Stroll down one of the many paths from the lodge, camera in hand, to discover additional scenic views.
Li’an Lodge, Longsheng

DAY 7
Exploring Longsheng rice terraces; Longsheng to Guilin

Optional hiking – moderate, 4-6 hours.

After breakfast, we set out on an all-day hike, traversing the mountain roads, terraced slopes, and bamboo forests that connect several Zhuang and Yao minority villages in the region. The solitude of the surrounding forests is profound, and at times we enjoy only the simple sounds of a babbling brook or chirping birds – an almost startling contrast to the hustle and bustle of Beijing, where we were just a few short days ago.

Yao women are skilled at embroidery, and  as we pass through the villages you may notice the fine flower patterns on the edges of their garments. The Zhuang are the most populous of China’s minorities, and one of the best integrated with the Han, China’s main population. They are known for their festival singing and dancing. Traditional religions of the Yao include nature worship, ancestor worship, and Daoism, while Zhuang add Christianity and Buddhism to the list. As we explore the countryside on foot, soak in the poetic atmosphere, and the astonishing carved terraces that shimmer and swirl across the landscape for miles. Shrouds of hanging fog add an eerie beauty, accentuating the stacked earth.

Late in the afternoon we return to Guilin and enjoy some free time to explore on your own.
Sheraton Guilin Hotel, Guilin

DAY 8
Guilin to Yangshuo

Walking – easy, 2-3 hours; Li River cruise – 2-3 hours.

This morning we find ourselves exploring the narrow stone streets and visiting the market of Fuli, an ancient town near Yangshuo. In this small town of 4,000, one in every four residents makes a living  making painted fans and umbrellas.

After lunch, we enjoy a leisurely boat cruise along the Li River from Xinping to Yangshuo. Along the way, sit back and enjoy the idyllic tranquility of Chinese rural and river life amid the mountains, bamboo forests, reed beds, and bizarre rock formations. Such landscape has inspired Chinese artists for thousands of years.

This evening, we head for the river to watch fishermen demonstrate the unusual use of cormorants to catch fish, a traditional skill that has been passed down for centuries.
Dragon River Retreat, Yangshuo

DAY 9
Exploring Yangshuo

Optional biking and walking exploration – easy to moderate, 3-5 hours.

For those who yearn for more time on the unforgettably scenic rivers of this region, you have the option this morning of boarding a private bamboo raft on the Yulong River for a more traditional river experience.

In the afternoon, we have option to hop on bikes and head for Aishan via an old country road to the village of Yongcun, passing picturesque hamlets along the way, tucked among lush vegetation and bordered by rice fields. Moon Hill looms in the distance, an unusual limestone arch with a hole eroded in the center. The hole is believed to have been created by an ancient underground river long since disappeared. After lunch, you can reach the summit of Moon Hill by ascending 819 steps for a spectacular bird’s-eye-view of the surrounding hills. Then we get back on our bikes and continue our explorations of the surrounding country. Depending on the season, you may see farmers walking their water buffalo along the roads or working them in the fields. Traveling by bike allows us to stop to chat with rice farmers and learn about their ages-old lifestyle.

This evening a very special treat is in store: the famed Impression Liusanjie, a choreographed and beautifully lit river performance directed by Zhang Yimou, the internationally acclaimed Chinese filmmaker whose credits include Raise the Red Lantern, Red Sorghum, and House of Flying Daggers.
Dragon River Retreat, Yangshuo

DAY 10  
Yangshuo to Shanghai

City walking – easy, 2-3 hours.

We fly to Shanghai after breakfast, dramatically shifting gears from the traditional and bucolic to the pulsating rhythms of China’s cutting-edge future. In the afternoon, take a walking tour of the tree-lined avenues of the city’s French Concession. Many of the elegant homes here were built before WWII and create a charming atmosphere for strolling. Mingled among the houses we find trendy shops and cafés, testament to China’s up-and-coming, well-heeled younger generation. We’ll also sample a few of China’s most famous teas in a local tea shop and get a glimpse inside one of the formal homes, either the home of Sun Yatsen or Song Qingling. For the next two nights, we enjoy our well-located home in the French Concession.
Mansion Hotel, Shanghai

DAY 11
Exploring Shanghai

Walking – easy, 3-5 hours.

Our final full day of exploring China begins at the Shanghai Museum, which houses a world-class collection of Chinese bronzes, jade, pottery, ceramics, paintings, and calligraphy. You’ll have ample time to explore all five floors with the aid of an excellent, self-guided audio system. Lunch at Shanghai Ren Jia offers a delicious selection of dumplings and noodle soups.

Later this afternoon, we explore the 16th-century Yu Garden, a classical Chinese garden with more than thirty pavilions linked by a maze of corridors, courtyards, and bridges over ponds. Such gardens provide an idyllic and tranquil break from the city’s typical pace. The Shikumen Museum recreates a typical Shanghai home from the 1920s, and a stroll through provides a sense of the history of the place.

After a final celebratory dinner, we have a special evening in store: attending an acrobatics show, a 2,500-year-old Chinese tradition that originated during village harvest festivals. Using chi kung, a philosophy harnessing inner strength, acrobats focus the body and mind to work in harmony, performing amazing feats of balance, coordination, and dance.
Mansion Hotel, Shanghai

DAY 12
Departure from Shanghai


After breakfast, transfers are provided to the airport for departures, or you may spend some time exploring the city independently.

Please note that this is a typical itinerary, and actual activities may vary to take advantage of weather conditions, local events, and to allow serendipity to play a hand in your experience. Accommodations are as outlined in the itinerary, although we reserve the right to change these should the need arise.

Suggested Trip Length

12 Days

Trip Dates

Upcoming Trips:

This Private Collection trip is available April-October on the dates that work for you. Please note June-August can be hot and rainy.

2012 Land Cost

From $5,195 per person

2012 Land Cost Details

1 guest: $6,995 (plus Single Supplement)
2-3 guests: $5,595 per person
4+ guests: $5,195 per person

Single Supplement

$975

View Single Supplement Policy

Single Supplements:

Accommodations (hotels, tents, cruise cabins) are based on double occupancy. A single supplement is paid by participants who specifically request single accommodations, subject to availability. If you are traveling alone and wish to share accommodations, we will try to match you with a roommate of the same gender. If you reserve at least 90 days ahead and a roommate is not available, you will only be charged a “forced” single supplement in the amount of 50% of the standard single supplement (unless otherwise noted in the detailed itinerary).* Single accommodations are limited so you are encouraged to reserve early!

* This does not apply to cruises in the Galapagos Islands or Antarctica. Please see these trip pages for more details.

Internal Airfare

$665 (may be subject to change)

View Internal Airfare Description

Beijing-Xi'an; Xi'an-Guilin; Yangshuo-Shanghai

Optional Tour Leader Supplement

$3050 per group

View Additional Fees Description

Our China Private Collection trip is priced based on experienced, English-speaking guides joining you in each province. We find our local guides are best able to provide you with an experience that is memorable, immersive in the local culture, and gets you off the beaten path.  If you prefer an additional level of service, we can also provide a Tour Leader to travel with your group throughout your entire journey.

What's Included

  • Expert guides in each region
  • All accommodations while on tour including 5-star city hotels and charming country lodges, all private baths
  • All meals included; alcoholic beverages not included
  • All transportation during the tour
  • All activities as noted in the itinerary

Please complete the following information to request a reservation. A trip deposit of $500 per person is required to confirm your reservation (payable by check or major credit card). Once we receive your request we will contact you within one business day to confirm availability and answer any questions you may have.

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Double: One bed Two beds
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Picture Yourself Here:

Touring Tiananmen Square and the Forbidden City on foot

Overnighting at a less-visited section of the Great Wall

“Lower deck” viewing of the famed Terra Cotta Warriors

Exploring the museums, pagodas, and cultural quarters of ancient Xi’an

Hiking through the ancient terraces of Longsheng

Cruising along the Li River and heading out on an optional cycling adventure into rural villages

Upcoming Trips:

This Private Collection trip is available April-October on the dates that work for you. Please note June-August can be hot and rainy.

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Testimonials

Bhutan Tour"I cannot say enough good things about our guide, Kinley, and our driver, Tsering. Kinley was not only incredibly knowledgeable about Bhutan, Buddhism, the culture and life in general, he also took our personal interests into consideration to make the trip a richer experience."
- Erika Jaeggli, Bhutan: Hidden Kingdom in the Himalayas Private Collection





  
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