20 Day China Uncovered with Yangtze River, Chengdu & Guangzhou

Welcome to China! Your journey begins in Shanghai, a dazzling fusion of old-world charm and cutting-edge modernity. Once known as the ‘Paris of the East', this dynamic metropolis is a gateway to China. On arrival, make your own way to the hotel. The remainder of the day is yours to settle in, relax after your travels, or begin exploring at your own pace. You might take a gentle stroll around your neighbourhood to get your bearings, or simply enjoy a quiet evening and rest up for the adventure ahead. Shanghai's energy is infectious, and tomorrow, you'll dive straight into the heart of it! Special Information Airport transfers are not included. Our transfer portal may offer the option to book your airport transfers for an easier arrival experience (additional charges apply). Access to this portal will be available through your Traveller Hub once your booking is confirmed.

After breakfast, meet your tour guide and the rest of the group before stepping out to explore Shanghai's captivating blend of East and West, old and new. Begin at The Bund, the city's famous riverfront promenade. Once the centre of colonial-era commerce, today it's a striking showcase of 19th-century European architecture, set against the futuristic skyline of Pudong just across the Huangpu River. It's the perfect place to appreciate Shanghai's past and present in one sweeping view. Next, head to Xintiandi, a lively pedestrian precinct where restored Shikumen-style buildings now house stylish cafés, boutique shops and restaurants. Once traditional stone gate residences, these lanes have been thoughtfully reimagined while retaining their historical charm. You'll also take a closer look at the Shikumen architecture itself, a uniquely Shanghainese blend of Chinese and Western design that once dominated the city's residential streetscapes. Wandering these narrow alleys offers a glimpse into the daily life of old Shanghai. This afternoon, you're free to explore on your own. Inspiring Highlights Stroll along the iconic Bund, Shanghai's historic waterfront Explore the lively Xintiandi district and its stylish Shikumen laneways Learn about Shanghai's unique architectural heritage

This morning, leave the bustle of Shanghai behind and travel to nearby Suzhou, often referred to as the ‘Venice of the East' for its graceful canals and centuries-old charm. Your first stop is the Master of the Nets Garden, one of the most exquisite examples of classical Chinese garden design. Though modest in size, it's a masterpiece of balance, weaving together water, rock, architecture and greenery in perfect harmony. Walking its tranquil pathways offers a poetic window into traditional Chinese aesthetics. Next, visit a local silk factory to discover how Suzhou became the heart of China's silk industry. From the humble silkworm to shimmering finished fabrics, you'll learn about the intricate process behind one of the country's most prized exports. Later, board a high-speed train and journey north to Beijing, China's grand capital, where ancient imperial history and bold modern ambition meet. Inspiring Highlights Discover the elegance of Suzhou's Master of the Nets Garden Learn the secrets of silk at a traditional workshop Experience China's impressive high-speed rail network Special Information Your travel time today will be approximately 6 hours. Your train documentation will be given to you on tour by your tour leader.

Your exploration of Beijing begins at its symbolic heart: Tiananmen Square. One of the largest public squares in the world, this vast space has witnessed many of China's most pivotal moments and remains a powerful emblem of national pride. From here, step into the Forbidden City, a sprawling palace complex that once housed generations of emperors during the Ming and Qing dynasties. With over 900 buildings and ornate imperial halls, this UNESCO World Heritage site offers an extraordinary glimpse into China's dynastic past and its grand imperial architecture. After exploring the city, we will be treated to a special late lunch of Beijing's signature dish – Beijing Copper Hot Pot. Cooked over charcoal fire in a copper pot, with thin mutton slices blanched in clear soup and served with sesame paste dipping sauce for an authentic and rich flavor. After lunch we will return to our hotel and the rest of the evening is yours to relax. Inspiring Highlights Stand in historic Tiananmen Square Walk through the Forbidden City, a UNESCO-listed imperial treasure

Start your day with a visit to a jade factory to learn about the significance of this precious stone in Chinese culture. Admire beautifully carved pieces and, if you wish, select your own keepsake. Afterwards we will travel out of the city to experience one of the world's most iconic landmarks—the Great Wall of China. You'll visit the Juyongguan Pass, one of the most well-preserved and accessible sections of the Wall, where ancient stone ramparts wind through rugged mountain scenery. Take time to climb, explore, and soak in the incredible views that stretch across the northern hills, a powerful reminder of China's rich and enduring history. On the way back, Journey to the exquisite Summer Palace, a 716 acre expanse of lakes, gardens and palaces, three-quarters of which is the man-made Kunming Lake. With origins from 1153 and largely constructed in 1750, the imperial grounds were a popular retreat for members of the ruling dynasty and has since become a UNESCO world heritage site. Inspiring Highlights Learn about jade craftsmanship at a traditional workshop Walk along the storied Great Wall at Juyongguan Pass Visit the Summer Palace

After breakfast we will explore a traditional Chinese medicine shop, where the scent of herbs hangs in the air and ancient remedies line the shelves. Learn how generations have used natural ingredients to support balance and wellness, a fascinating insight into one of the world's oldest healing systems. Later, visit the serene Temple of Heaven, a beautiful example of Ming design and religious significance. Surrounded by peaceful parklands, this sacred site was where emperors once prayed for good harvests, and it remains one of Beijing's most treasured cultural landmarks. Inspiring Highlights Discover the practices of traditional Chinese medicine Visit the Temple of Heaven

After breakfast, board a high-speed train for your journey to Xi'an, one of China's ancient capitals and the eastern gateway of the ancient Silk Road. Rich in imperial history and culinary tradition, Xi'an is a city where the past and present live side by side. On arrival, we will check into our hotel where the rest of the night is yours to relax. You might want to head out to explore the bustling Muslim Quarter near the hotel. This vibrant street market is famous for its delicious street food, lively atmosphere, and cultural mix. Sample local favourites like hand-pulled noodles, roujiamo (Chinese burgers), sticky rice cakes, and sizzling lamb skewers as you weave through colourful stalls and fragrant laneways. Inspiring Highlights High-speed train journey to historic Xi'an Special Information Your travel time today will be approximately 6 hours. Your train documentation will be given to you on tour by your tour leader.

After breakfast, set out to explore one of China's most extraordinary archaeological wonders: the Terracotta Warriors. Discovered in 1974, this vast underground army of life-sized sculptures represents the formidable armies of Qin Shi Huang, China's first emperor. Wander through the excavation pits and marvel at the incredible craftsmanship and scale of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Next, visit the Small Wild Goose Pagoda, a beautifully preserved Tang Dynasty Buddhist structure. Its graceful brick architecture and peaceful surroundings offer a fascinating glimpse into the religious and cultural life of ancient Xi'an. Afterwards we will visit Yongxingfang, a cultural block in Xi'an. You can taste local intangible cultural heritage snacks and experience activities here. Try your hand at the Chinese calligraphy experience which offers interactive sessions that let you feel the history and artistry of Chinese characters. Inspiring Highlights Discover the magnificent Terracotta Warriors Explore the elegant Small Wild Goose Pagoda Visit Yongxingfang

Early in the morning, you will be transferred to Xi'an airport to board your flight to Yichang. You will be picked up upon arrival at Yichang, and will enjoy some time at leisure before embarking on the cruise in the early evening. Enjoy the scenic views along the way, building anticipation for the thrilling experiences that await. Once on board the ship, settle into your comfortable accommodation and get acquainted with the amenities. Join a welcome briefing that offers valuable insight into the upcoming itinerary and planned activities, setting the stage for a memorable cruise along the breathtaking Yangtze River. Special InformationYour internal flight for this day is arranged by our local partner and their is only one flight a day departing at 7:15am. These group flights cannot be upgraded, amended, or checked in online. Your Tour Leader will manage the check-in process for the group.Please note that the cruise will be unescorted. Dinner this evening will be at a local restaurant before your cruise embarkation. Shore excursions and cruise itineraries are subject to change based on availability, weather, and other unforeseen circumstances. The cruise company will do its best to accommodate guests' preferences whenever possible.

Begin your day with a hearty breakfast, followed by an optional tour or a leisurely morning at your own pace. In the afternoon, head out on your first shore excursion to the remarkable Three Gorges Dam Site. This engineering marvel holds the title of being the largest and most expensive project of its kind globally, stretching an impressive 2,335 metres in length and towering 181 metres in height. Despite its positive impact on clean energy production and reducing China's reliance on coal, the dam is not without its controversies. Explore the intricacies of this colossal structure and its regional impact as the day unfolds. In the evening, you're invited to join the Captain's Welcome Banquet. This delightful event not only promises a culinary feast but also provides a chance to connect with fellow travellers and revel in the camaraderie of your Yangtze River Cruise experience. Inspiring Highlights A visit to the Three Gorges Dam site Captain's Welcome Banquet Optional Shore Excursions (optional shore excursions are booked and paid for onboard your cruise): Tribe of Three Gorge (CNY 290pp)Explore the Tribe of the Three Gorges, immersing yourself in the unique blend of Ba and Shu cultures. Discover traditional customs, witness local craftsmanship, and enjoy the picturesque surroundings. Engage with the local community, gaining insights into their daily lives and cultural practices. OR Three Gorges Dam Ship Lift (CNY 290pp)The largest and most sophisticated ship lift in the world, with a lifting height of about 113 metres. During the peak season, this optional activity welcomes people from different ships, so in some cases, you may not be able to get a seat, but standing is permitted. Special InformationShore excursions and cruise itineraries are subject to change based on availability, weather, and other unforeseen circumstances. The cruise company will do its best to accommodate guests' preferences whenever possible.

Today, you'll disembark from the cruise ship and head to the captivating Shennong Stream, depending on the cruise ship's itinerary. Here, you'll get to fully appreciate the dramatic and unique beauty of the Yangtze River, set against the impressive Qutang and Wu gorges. During this excursion, explore the Ancient Plank Road and Mangling Stairway, discovering remnants of early settlements showcased in the form of hanging coffins suspended high on the limestone cliff faces. These coffins, holding the remains of the Tujia people's descendants, provide a poignant glimpse into ancient traditions. Among the breathtaking scenery of steep ridges and peaks, lush vegetation, and vibrant wildlife, including monkeys and tropical birds, the landscape serves as a living testament to the natural wonders of the region. You will also discover the Lesser Three Gorges, a hidden gem of the Three Gorges region, where visitors can take a small boat to admire majestic mountains, lush forests, scenic river views, and a breathtaking landscape that offers a true return to nature. Inspiring Highlights Gain a different perspective of the Yangtze River from the Qutang, Lesser Three Gorges and Wu gorges Explore the hanging coffins, Ancient Plank Road and Mangling Stairway Optional Shore Excursions (optional shore excursions are booked and paid for onboard your cruise): White Emperor City (CNY 252pp)Perched atop Baidi Mountain on the northern bank of the Yangtze River in Fengjie County, the White Emperor City is an ancient temple complex with a storied history that has inspired numerous poems. This landmark, offering sweeping views of the western end of Qutang Gorge, is so iconic that it graces the back of the Chinese 10-yuan bill. Visitors have the opportunity to partake in a trip to this historical site when river conditions permit, immersing themselves in the timeless beauty and cultural significance of this revered location. This excursion involves some stair climbing and may be challenging for visitors with mobility issues. OR Mini Three Gorges (CNY 325pp) and Dachang Ancient Town (CNY 150pp), two sites package (CNY 280pp)The Mini Three Gorges, also known as the Little Lesser Three Gorges, is a more untouched and primitive area located in Wushan. It's renowned for its stunning deep gorges, crystal-clear waters, and lush vegetation along both banks, and is often praised as the 'best area for drifting in China. Dachang Ancient Town is a relocated, 1,700-year-old riverside gem showcasing Ming-Qing architecture, cultural heritage, and scenic beauty. Special InformationShore excursions and cruise itineraries are subject to change based on availability, weather, and other unforeseen circumstances. The cruise company will do its best to accommodate guests' preferences whenever possible.

Discover the 1,900-year-old Fengdu Ghost City, which offers a fascinating insight into Chinese culture, illustrating traditional beliefs about the afterlife—where virtuous souls are rewarded and the sinful are punished—through vivid statues, scenes, and classic architecture. In the evening, enjoy a farewell banquet dinner. Inspiring Highlights Fengdu Ghost City Optional Shore Excursions (optional shore excursions are booked and paid for onboard your cruise): Mount Shuanggui (CNY 150pp)Mount Shuanggui is home to over 20 historic pagodas, towers, pavilions, and temples nestled in lush greenery, offering stunning views, birdsong, and a deep sense of China's rich literary and cultural heritage. Special InformationShore excursions and cruise itineraries are subject to change based on availability, weather, and other unforeseen circumstances. The cruise company will do its best to accommodate guests' preferences whenever possible. Fengdu Ghost City involves some stair climbing and may be challenging for visitors with mobility issues. In such cases, guests are welcome to remain on the ship and not participate in the shore excursion.

After breakfast you will disembark the ship at Chongqing and be transferred to the train station to board a bullet train to Chengdu. We hope you enjoyed your 5-star cruise on the mighty Yangtze! Upon arrival in Chengdu, you will be transferred to the hotel for check in; the rest of the day can be spent as you wish, relaxing or exploring the city of Chengdu.Special InformationYour travel time today will be approximately 3 hours.Your train documentation will be given to you on tour by your tour leader.

After breakfast, you will come face-to-face with China's national treasure, the panda, at the Chengdu Panda Breeding Centre. This sprawling centre stands as the world's largest panda breeding facility, nurturing an impressive panda population of over 200 individuals. You will learn all about this creature and the centre's work. As the capital of Sichuan province, Chengdu's reputation for its renowned hot pot (huo guo or fire and pot) is well known. You will be able to select your own ingredients (usually beef, lamb, pork and vegetables such as potato, radish, and bamboo shoots) to be cooked in a communal pot of spiced broth. It is common to have a yin and yang pot where the pot is divided into a spicy and non-spicy broth to suit all tastes. Inspiring Highlights Meeting China's treasure, the panda at the renowned Chengdu Panda Breeding Centre Feasting on Chengdu's popular dish, hot pot

After breakfast and checking out, we will head to the train station to board a high-speed train to Guilin. Once you arrive, you will be transferred to the hotel to check in, and the rest of the day can be spent as you wish before dinner that night with the group. Special Information:Your travel time today will be approximately 6 hours.Your train documentation will be given to you on tour by your tour leader.

After breakfast this morning we will be visiting a unique natural attraction just 5-km from the city centre. Reed Flute Cave, also known as ‘The Palace of Natural Art.' It's about 240 metres deep and 500 metres long, and its stalagmites, stalactites and stone pillars formed around 180 million years ago. While stepping out of the cave be sure to notice the abundant reeds that grow and are used to make flutes, giving the cave its name. We then explore Trunk Hill, this hill has this name because it outlines a vivid image of an elephant sipping water from the river with its trunk. It is the symbol of Guilin and its karst landscape. Afterwards we continue to Guilin Tea Science and Research Institute. It is the largest one of its kind in Guilin area. We will have a tea picking experience there and learn how to make different teas from different part of tea leaves. We will get to experience a hands on learning experience of Chinese tea culture. Inspiring Highlights Reed Flute Cave and exploring the 180 million year old natural attraction Explore Trunk Hill Visit the Guilin Tea Science and Research Institute

After breakfast this morning, we will go on a four-hour cruise of the Li River. The Li River is famed for its scenic natural beauty, appearing in many ‘best of' lists as well as being a UNESCO site. The 83 km river runs from Guilin to Yangshuo, with both of the sides of the river showcasing an amazing karst landscape. Yangshuo itself is known for its picturesque countryside dotted with ancient towns and postcard-perfect scenery. Inspiring Highlights Li River cruise, a UNESCO site Special Information:Your travel time today will be approximately 4 hours.

After a leisurely breakfast, the day is yours to spend how you wish - rest and relax at the hotel, explore Yangshuo or perhaps join the optional tour. Yangshuo is a place where time has stood still. Streets and homes remain in their original style, preserving the layout of this very special ancient city. There is no shop-until-you-drop to be had here. Instead, immerse yourself in the classic nature scene of China seen in famous paintings (and on the 20 yuan note!): limestone karst hills that rise up dramatically from the valley. It is unspoilt and ready to explore - a good way is by bicycle. Optional tour (please note - this optional tour can only be booked and paid on tour): Rural Idyll Tour With Villagers Home Visit(CNY 300 pp)Explore the idyllic countryside of Yangshuo where you'll be surrounded by picturesque rice paddies and dramatic karst mountains. Visit a local villager's home to gain insight into rural life in China. Learn about traditional farming practices and daily life in a small Chinese village.

After breakfast at the hotel, we will bid farewell to Yangshouand board a high speed train to Guangzhou. Known as the ‘Flower City', Guangzhou has a 2,200-year-old history and sits just northwest of Hong Kong on the Pearl River. When you arrive, you will be transferred to the hotel to check in. You will have some time to rest or explore the city before our exciting evening activity: a night tour of the city with a dim sum dinner. You'll see the city's iconic landmarks such as Canton Tower, IFC, Haixin Sha and Zhujiang New Town and indulge in delicious dim sum and other specialties of the region. Inspiring Highlights Guangzhou night tour and dim sum dinner, the perfect way to end your China tour Special Information:Your travel time today will be approximately 4 hours.Your train documentation will be given to you on tour by your tour leader.

Today marks the end of your incredible tour through China. Thank you for travelling with Inspiring Vacations. We hope you had a memorable experience. Special Information:Airport transfers are not included. Our transfer portal offers the option to book your airport transfers for an easier arrival experience (additional charges apply). Access to this portal will be available through your Traveller Hub once your booking is confirmed.