Beijing - Xi'an - Chengdu - Kunming - Dali - Lijiang - Guilin - Yangshuo - Longsheng - Hong Kong 
With a bit more time on your hands the China Explorer itinerary with a leading specialist operator such as Emperor Tours allows you to venture a bit further afield than other trips and discover more of this fascinating country.
Highlights include:
Take international scheduled flight from London Heathrow to Beijing.
(We can also arrange flights from other UK airports without any additional cost; upgrade to premium economy class or business class available on request)
On arrival at Beijing Capital Airport we’ll be met by our guide and taken by private transfer to the 5* Artyzen Habitat Dongzhimen Beijing, located in the centre of this amazing city.
Once we have freshened up we begin with a visit to the Temple of Heaven – built in 1420, it was the place where the Ming and Qing emperors worshipped the God of Heaven and prayed for a good harvest for the year.
Time permitting, we will visit the Olympic Village, Birds Nest Stadium and Water Cube.
Finally, we end our first day with a welcome dinner in a traditional Chinese restaurant.
We start the day with a visit to Tiananmen Square – the largest public square in the world.
Walking through the Gate of Heavenly Peace (with the late Chairman Mao’s huge portrait hanging over the gate), we enter the magnificent Forbidden City, a massive palace compound (home to 24 Emperors since the 15th century) which never fails to impress.
In the afternoon the tour continues visiting the enchanting Summer Palace with its lakes, gardens, teahouses and pagodas. The largest Imperial garden in the world is where Qing Emperors and Empresses stayed between May and October, to escape the pollution inside the city. End your day with a relaxing boat ride on the beautiful Kunming Lake.
Today we travel outside the city to the world famous Great Wall at Jinshanling – a remote and wild section of the wall relatively unspoiled by overflow of tourists. Spend the whole day exploring this unique wonder, taking in the breath taking, panoramic views and enjoy a picnic lunch on the Great Wall itself!
Return to hotel late afternoon for a refreshing shower.
This evening after a traditional Peking duck dinner, you’ll take a closer look into Beijing people’s night life by visiting the trendy bar street.
We start our day with a rickshaw tour around old Beijing’s Hutong (alleyways) area where you can immerse yourself in local history and culture, including a visit to a typical Beijing family courtyard house.
In the afternoon we fly to Xi’an – the ancient capital of China. Upon arrival we transfer to the 5* Grand Noble Hotel in the city centre.
Later we visit the Ancient City Wall, originally built during the Tang Dynasty, it is the most complete, surviving city wall in China today.
We also visit the Big Wild Goose Pagoda – initially built in 589, it’s known as the best-preserved Buddhist temple complex.
In the evening relax and enjoy a spectacular Tang Dynasty Dinner Show.
Today begins another highlight of our tour – a visit to the amazing Terracotta Warriors and Horses. Built over 2,000 years ago, to guard the tomb of Emperor Qinshihuang, over 7,000 life-size soldiers, horses and chariots lay undiscovered until 1974 when they were uncovered by a farmer. This is truly one of the greatest archaeological discoveries of the 20th century and now a must-see UNESCO World Heritage Site.
In the afternoon we return to the city and visit the landmark, stately Bell Tower – beautifully lit as night falls with enchanting red lanterns.
There’s also time to browse around the colourful and vibrant local food market in the old Muslim Quarter.
This morning we take a short flight to Chengdu – the capital of Sichuan Province.
Upon arrival, take a trip to Leshan and visit the Grand Buddha Statue, the largest stone Buddha sculpture in the world.
Later we return to Chengdu and check in to the 4* Buddha Zen Hotel adjacent to famous thousands-year Wenshuyuan Buddhist Temple, where you can listen to Buddhist sermons, smell incense, and experience ancient charms everyday.
This evening, after a Sichuan style dinner, enjoy a traditional Chuan Opera performance.
This morning you visit the world famous Giant Panda Breeding Research Centre, a natural habitat for the rearing and breeding of Giant Pandas. Experience a close encounter with the rare and cute panda bears.
In the afternoon we continue with a visit to Du Fu Thatched Cottage, a 24-acre park and museum in honour of the Tang Dynasty poet Du Fu, and Wuhou Temple, the most famous and influential temple dedicated to one of China’s most famous historic figures Zhuge Liang.
This morning we take a flight to Kunming – the city of everlasting spring.
Upon arrival we visit the Stone Forest – a massive collection of spectacular grey limestone pillars found around 120 km south-east of Kunming and covering an area of 300 square kilometers.
Afterwards we check in to the 4* Jinjiang Hotel located in the centre of Kunming for the evening.
After breakfast we take a short flight (approx. 45 mins) to Dali – the autonomous region of the Bai ethnic group.
We will be met on arrival and then drive to Cangshan Mountain. Take a cable car ride up the mighty Cangshan Mountain for a stunning view over Erhai Lake.
Also visit Dali’s famous landmark – the Three Pagodas, a must see in your Dali tour, occupying a scenic location at the foot of Mt. Cangshan facing Erhai Lake.
Later in the afternoon we visit Xizhou Village, with local Bai’s bazaar, where you can enjoy local song and dance performed by the Bai people.
Enjoy a scrumptious dinner in Dali Old Town, surrounded by the beauty of this ancient town.
In the morning we have some free time to stroll around the old town.
This afternoon we drive through the tranquil and beautiful countryside to Lijiang – home of the Naxi minority people. Lijiang is a beautiful shining jewel at the northwest Yunnan Plateau connecting the southeast side of the Tibetan Plateau.
Upon arrival you will be transferred to the 4* Wang Fu Hotel located in the Nanmen Square area of the ancient town. The hotel is close to many local attractions.
This morning we start our tour with a stroll around the Lijiang Old Town and visit the Mufu Mansion, a large reconstructed palace and castle on a hill overlooking Lijiang ancient town.
Later we drive outside the town to Jade Dragon Snow Mountain. Enjoy the fabulous Impression Lijiang Show – directed by the famous Chinese film-maker Zhang YiMou (also director of Opening Ceremony of Beijing Olympic Games).
After the show we take the chairlift up the snow-capped Jade Dragon Mountain and also experience the authentic life and culture of the Naxi people with a visit to Baisha Village.
Today you will travel outside Lijiang to visit what is known as the First Bend of Yangtze River. This extraordinary turn, nearly 180 degrees, creates beautiful and marvellous views that startle the imagination.
We then trek along the mountain edge and view the Tiger Leaping Gorge, with a drop of 3,000 metres. The torrential Jinsha River, roaring and crashing over grotesque shaped rocks, produce a thrilling and stirring sight here!
Today we transfer to the airport for a flight to Guilin via Kunming.
Described as one of the most picturesque cities in China, Guilin is surrounded by the sheer-sided Karst Mountains, as well as two rivers and four lakes, providing stunning watery landscapes. On arrival we visit the Reed Flute Cave. Inside this water-eroded cave is a spectacular world of various stalactites, stone pillars and rock formations created by carbonate deposition.
In the evening, after dinner, Emperor Tours treat every customer with a refreshing, traditional Chinese foot massage – perfect after a day sightseeing!
Today we take a scenic boat cruise along the Li River, sailing through bamboo plains and limestone karst towers, to Yangshuo (a small town near Guilin) with its breathtaking natural landscapes.
After lunch on board, we have plenty of time to browse around Yangshuo’s lively local market and bustling West Street.
Return to Guilin in the evening.
Optional evening tour: See cormorant fishing – can be organised if enough interest
This morning we drive to Longsheng (north of Guilin). Upon arrival we can enjoy the amazing scenery of Longsheng Rice terraces (‘Dragon’s Backbone’). Stretching layer upon layer, coiling around from the base of Longji Mountain to its summit, this is the most amazing terrace in China and a wonderful photo opportunity.
Later in the afternoon we transfer to Guilin airport for our flight to Hong Kong. Upon arrival we will be met and take a private transfer to the 4+* Harbour Plaza Metropolis Hotel. Rest of day at leisure.
In the morning we take you on a half day tour including Victoria Peak – at 554m above sea level the highest point in Hong Kong and the perfect birds eye viewpoint of this spectacular city. We also visit shopping heaven at Stanley Market as well as the intriguing, Aberdeen Fishing Village – famous for its community living on traditional junks and a fabulous destination for seafood dining.
The rest of the day is free.
The day time is free for you to indulge in shopping and savour the culinary delicacies that Hong Kong has to offer. Open your senses to Hong Kong’s amazing skyline, bustling harbour and peaceful countryside.
You’ll have the whole day to explore further and take in more of the sights and sounds of Hong Kong.
We’ll then organise a late evening transfer to Hong Kong airport for your overnight flight home.
Optional extra nights in Hong Kong are available – please ask a member of our team for further details.
Arrive back in the UK in the morning.
Visit the website to see more!
5* Grand Noble Hotel
Grand Noble Hotel Xi’an is a luxurious property, managed by Grand Noble Hotels & Resorts. The hotel offering comprehensive facilities and services for leisure and business stays. It is conveniently located in the commercial center, shopping and entertainment area of downtown Xi’an, neighboring several popular tourist attractions. Bell Tower and Forest of Stone Steles Museum is 10 minutes-walk away.
For more information click here
4* Buddha Zen Hotel
Buddha Zen Hotel, a territory for Buddha-worshippers, is located at Wenshufang folk and custom street and adjacent to famous thousands-year Wenshuyuan Buddhist Temple, where you can listen to Buddhist sermons, smell incense, and experience ancient charms everyday.
For more information click here
4* Jinjiang Hotel
Kunming Jinjiang Hotel is located in the center of the trade and business area of Kunming, which is known as the City of Spring. Featuring 320 rooms and suites,the hotel also provides multiple services.
For more information click here
4* Lan Ling Ge Hotel
Lan Ling Ge Hotel is located at Yu Er road, the Ancient Town of Dali with fine transport link. East to Er Sea, West to Cangshan Mountian, is the unique hotel which shows the different style courtyard architecture of the nationality of Bai.
For more information click here
4* Wang Fu Hotel
Situated amid the guesthouses of Lijiang, the Wangfu Hotel (Lijiang Wangfu Fandian), with its simple and uncomplicated architecture, is located in the Nanmen Square area of the ancient town. The hotel is close to many local attractions such as Price Mu’s Palace, Square Street, Black Dragon Pool Park, and Jane Dragon Snow Mountain.
For more information click here
5* Guilin Grand Bravo Hotel
Tranquilly set amongst the mountains and Peach blooming River, 20-minutes-drive from the international airport, the Grand Bravo Guilin greets you with the most breathtaking scenery in Guilin.
For more information click here
4+* Harbour Plaza Metropolis
Harbour Plaza Metropolis is situated in the heart of Kowloon, overlooking the spectacular world-famous Victoria Harbour. Conveniently located near the MTR Hung Hom Station, it is just minutes away from Kowloon’s renowned Tsim Sha Tsui shopping districts.
For more information click here
Tour Price includes:
Tour Price excludes:
FLIGHT TIMES: 9.5 hours direct from London Heathrow to Beijing.
TIME DIFFERENCE: +7 hours in summer time / +8 hours in winter time (BST).
CURRENCY: Chinese Yuan (official name Ren Min Bi) £1 = approx. 9 CYN.
MONEY: You can take Sterling cash with you and exchange in China – hotels and banks all provide a currency exchange service. Credit cards are widely accepted and there are ATM machines for withdrawing cash in local currency.
TIPPING: Tipping is at your own discretion. We recommended £5 (approx. 45 CYN) per day for your tour guide but it’s entirely up to you based on how good you think your guide and driver are.
VISA: All visitors to China are required to apply for a Chinese visa in advance of travel. Upon booking Emperor Tours will provide visa forms and detailed instructions explaining the application process.
LANGUAGE: The official language spoken in China is standard Mandarin (Pu Tong Hua).
BEST TIMES TO VISIT: Generally Spring and Autumn months – end of March to early June and September to early November.
FESTIVALS: Here are the main Chinese festivals and what you will expect to see and experience during these festivities…
Chinese New Year – 1st-15th of the first lunar month
Scrolls and paper-cut pictures, firecrackers and fireworks, New Year visits to family and friends, eating celebratory dishes.
Lantern Festival – 15th day of the first lunar month
Lanterns and fireworks, guessing lantern riddles, folk dances and eating celebratory dishes.
Qingming Festival – April 4th or 5th of the solar calendar
Tomb sweeping, Spring outings and kite flying.
Dragon Boat Festival – 5th day of the 5th lunar month
Dragon boat racing, eating celebratory dishes and tying five-colour silk thread.
Double Seventh Festival – 7th day of seventh lunar month
Praying for skillful hands, appreciating the stars, and eating noodles, and wontons.
Mid-autumn Festival – 15th day of the 8th lunar month
Appreciating and offering sacrifice to the moonlight and eating moon cakes.
Chongyang Festival – 9th day of the 9th lunar month
Eating Chongyang cake, drinking chrysanthemum wine, climbing mountains and appreciating beautiful chrysanthemums.
Winter Solstice – Dec. 21st, 22nd or 23rd in solar calendar
Eating dumplings in Northern areas and sticky puddings in Southern areas.
Laba Festival – 8th day of the 12th lunar month
Eating laba rice porridge.
NOTE: A lunar month is the time between two successive syzygies (new moons or full moons).
FOOD & DRINK: Our China Group Tours include most meals however if you are venturing out to eat on your own all our hotels are in city centres so it’s very easy to find local restaurants. Your guides will be more than happy to recommend restaurants of various cuisines to you. It’s not expensive to eat out in China – a simple meal in a local restaurant costs around £10 per person.
It’s advisable not to use the minibar in your hotel room as it can be very expensive, and you can find cheap soft drinks, beer and wine in supermarkets. Emperor Tours provide bottled water for guests and your hotel will also provide free bottled water in your room.
SOCIAL ETIQUETTE: China is a fairly relaxed country regarding etiquette, but there are a few things to be aware of:
Greetings and goodbyes – shake hands but never kiss someone’s cheek.
Religion – dress sensitively when visiting Buddhist (especially in Tibet) and Taoist temples, churches and mosques.? You should avoid touching monks, especially women.
Eating and drinking – its polite to help fill your neighbour’s plate at the dinner table and toast the host and others at the table. At the start of dinner, wait until toasting starts before drinking from your glass.
Gestures – don’t use too many hand movements or excessive body language.
HEALTH ADVICE: Before you travel, please make sure that you have obtained appropriate medical / travel insurance. There is no compulsory requirement for vaccination – the common recommendations are Hepatitis A and Typhoid and Malaria tablets are required if you travel to Yunnan Province or Hainan Island.
If travelling in Summer months, please bring sunscreen, mosquito repellent etc.
It is not safe to drink tap water in China – please drink boiled water or bottled water only.
