Yellow Mountain and Hong Kong Tour
Immerse yourself in ancient history as you visit iconic landmarks like the Great Wall and the Terracotta Warriors in Xian. Marvel at the breathtaking beauty of Huangshan, known as the Yellow Mountain, with its mystical peaks and ancient pine trees.
Experience the vibrant modernity of Shanghai and explore its futuristic skyline. Cruise along the Li River and witness the surreal karst landscape of Guilin. Finally, in Hong Kong, indulge in a fusion of cultures, culinary delights, and stunning city views. This comprehensive tour offers an unforgettable journey through China's most captivating destinations in just 15 days.
The itinerary below is only one possibility. Tips to tailor-make your trip are offered as inspiration. Send us details of your preferences and our travel experts will customize this trip to suit your interests, tastes, and budget.
Tour 'Wow' Points
Find the Hidden Halls in the Forbidden City
Make a Mini warrior with a Local Artisan Family
Enjoy a Peaceful Boat Ride Through Zhujiajiao Water Town
Explore the Awe-inspiring Li River in Guilin
Discover real reviews of Highlights Travel Family's best-rated service across trusted platforms.
Albee Ning Surreal China Trip
Albee Ning with China Highlights never fails to create the perfect vacation!!! She listens and understands what interests us and provides a guided tour that is surreal. We will remember and share the marvellous memories of this experience for the rest of our lives!! Thanks for everything Albee!!! (Including our dinner together by the elephant in Guilin!!) more
Oct 2024, Mike and Lucy
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Well organised and interesting
Tom was very helpful and knowledgeable. The walk along the Wall was well planned and really enjoyable. The visit to the Summer Palace and Forbidden City were memorable with excellent guiding more
Oct 2024, Robin
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Tour of Beijing
Tom from China tours guided us for a hike on the Jiansanling section of The Great Wall and then a one day tour of Beijing including Forbidden City Tiananmen Square and the Summer Palace. He was very friendly and accommodating from the begin. He answered all of our questions about Chinese history and culture and gave great explanations of the history of all the monuments we visited. The restaurants he chose and dishes he recommended were very tasty on both days. I would recommend him very highly to anyone looking for an English language tour in Beijing and particularly for people interested in history. more
Oct 2024, Sam M
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Itinerary Quick Look
Here is a suggested itinerary. We are happy to customize a tour according to your interests.
Your private guide will be ready to meet and greet you at the arrival hall in Beijing. A comfortable private car with an experienced driver will transfer you directly to your hotel. Your guide will help you to check-in.
Explore Beijing's vibrant heart at Tian'anmen Square, the largest city square in the center of Beijing. With its historical significance and symbolic importance to China, this square embodies national pride. Surrounded by noteworthy buildings like the Heavenly Gate and government institutions, the square is a sight to behold.
Don't miss the opportunity to visit the Forbidden City, a UNESCO World Heritage site, on our exclusive Emperor's Tour. Led by an expert guide, discover 12 carefully-selected spots within the palace, allowing you to delve into the intriguing stories of famous imperial figures from two dynasties. Uncover the architectural wonders, history, and art while immersing yourself in the grandeur of this iconic landmark.
Start your journey at the Temple of Heaven, a stunning complex of Taoist buildings dating back to the Ming dynasty. Visit during the morning to witness the vibrant park atmosphere as locals gather to sing, exercise, and practice tai chi. A leisurely walk of approximately 1-1½ hours through the park will immerse you in its beauty and serenity.
Next, we'll take you to the renowned Mutianyu section of the Great Wall, celebrated for its breathtaking scenery and well-preserved architecture. Our time-saving approach includes a comfortable round-trip cable car ride instead of climbing steps. Once atop the Wall, you'll have ample free time to explore and hike the captivating part known as the "golden route" between the 14th and 23rd watchtowers. The entire experience, including the hike and descent, typically takes around 2 hours.
Embark on a journey through Beijing's Olympic history with an exterior visit to the Bird's Nest and Water Cube stadiums. Marvel at these iconic structures, located in a vast 1215-hectare area that hosted the Beijing Olympics. Please note that the tour includes exploring the surrounding park, but does not include entry into the stadiums.
Next, immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring Summer Palace, one of China's largest and best-preserved imperial gardens. Discover the Garden of Virtue and Harmony, a magnificent three-story theater where famous opera singers once performed for the Empress Dowager. Experience the cultural significance and grandeur of this historic site.
Begin by exploring the Xi'an Ancient City Wall, one of the most well-preserved city defenses worldwide. Dating back to the 13th century, this magnificent structure offers panoramic views of the city. Walk, rent a bike, or an electric cart and traverse the full 14-kilometer circuit, immersing yourself in history.
Next, prepare to be amazed by the legendary Terracotta Warriors. Beyond the usual information found online, our tour unveils intriguing secrets and stories. Learn how craftsmen miraculously created over 8,000 life-sized warriors in just 11 years, discover their techniques to preserve the sculptures from weather damage, and unravel the mysteries behind the vibrant colors used. You'll even have a chance to visit a local cave dwelling, where a skilled craftsman will demonstrate traditional warrior-making techniques. Try your hand at creating your own miniature warrior with their guidance.
Visit the impressive Great Mosque, located in the vibrant Muslim quarter, just a stone's throw away from the city center. As one of China's largest Islamic mosques, it showcases a unique fusion of Chinese architecture and Islamic traditions. Marvel at the beautifully decorated courtyards aligned from east to west, facing Mecca. The mosque is an active place of worship for Hui descendants, known for their historic connection as Silk Road traders and travelers.
Next, immerse yourself in the serenity of the Big Wild Goose Pagoda, a significant Buddhist site situated within the picturesque Da Ci'en Temple grounds. This elegant brick pagoda, built in the 7th century, was constructed to house Buddhist materials brought back from India by Xuanzang (Tripitaka) after his legendary journey. Discover the temple complex's grand halls adorned with remarkable Buddhist statues and murals.
Conclude your tour with a visit to the lively Muslim Quarter, located just 100 meters west of the Bell Tower in downtown Xi'an. Wander along the 500-meter avenue paved with bluestones, where unique stalls, souvenir shops, cafés, and bars operated by Muslim vendors await. Explore this vibrant area, popular among both domestic and international tourists for its diverse offerings.
Explore the renowned Shaanxi History Museum, ranked among China's top 10 museums. Discover historical relics from the influential Han and Tang dynasties, as our knowledgeable guide highlights the impact of cultural exchanges with other regions. Experience firsthand how cultural exchange drives development, an influence that even today shapes China's "Belt and Road" initiative.
Afterward, delve into China's traditional national costume, Hanfu, at an ancient academy from the Ming and Qing dynasties. In just an hour, our guide will teach you the basics of Hanfu and give you the chance to dress up in this exquisite garb, offering a captivating glimpse into ancient culture.
Discover the breathtaking beauty of the Yellow Mountains, known as "the loveliest mountain in China." Marvel at the granite peaks, unique rock formations, and ancient trees amidst over 1,500 plant species.
On this private tour, your guide and driver will pick you up and take you to the South Gate of Huangshan Scenic area. Enjoy the magnificent scenery, including hot springs, waterfalls, and stunning vistas. Note that some attractions may be closed from December to March due to snow, but your guide will ensure you don't miss any other highlights.
Upon arriving at the south gate, take a shuttle bus to the Yungu Cable Car (20 minutes) for a scenic ascent at West Sea Grand Canyon. Your knowledgeable guide, with extensive mountain expertise, will customize the route for your preference.
For energetic hikers: Descend the cable car, walk 30 minutes to the hotel, passing by the Umbrella Pine and Black Tiger Pine. After a buffet lunch, embark on a thrilling three-hour hike in the West Sea Grand Canyon. If time allows, explore the Flying-over Rock and witness the sunset at Bright Top, with a 40-minute return to the hotel.
Experience the beauty of the Yellow Mountains with tailored routes for hikers of all levels. Discover stunning landscapes and immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring natural wonders of this unforgettable destination.
Experience the charm of Zhujiajiao's ancient water town with a scenic river cruise and visits to top attractions like Tongtianhe, the historic Post Office, Yuanjin Temple, and Kezhi Garden.
Discover the captivating story of Shanghai's rise to the sky on the "Shanghai in Progress" tour. Explore the historic Bund, witness stunning architectural treasures, and stroll through local alleyways to catch a glimpse of everyday life. Enjoy Shanghai snacks at a Michelin-starred restaurant, cross the Huangpu River on a public ferry, and ascend the Shanghai Tower for a panoramic view of the city. The walking distance is 2.4km, with breaks to savor snacks.
Embark on a spectacular Li River Cruise from Guilin to Yangshuo aboard a 4-star boat. Enjoy the breathtaking scenery, including limestone peaks, bamboo groves, and farmers tending to rice paddies. Look out for water buffaloes, fishermen on bamboo rafts, and the occasional sighting of fishing cormorants. The cruise lasts about 4 hours on a medium-sized boat accommodating up to 80 passengers. Indulge in a buffet or semi-buffet lunch on the newly operated 4-star boat.
Capture stunning photos at Xianggong Hill, a fantastic viewpoint near Yangshuo. Witness the Li River curving around a bend and admire the magnificent Karst scenery. The ascent takes approximately 20 minutes, offering panoramic views.
Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Yangshuo with a scenic Bamboo Rafting experience along the picturesque Yulong River. Enjoy breathtaking views of karst peaks, rice fields, and bamboo groves. The gentle current makes it suitable for all. Choose from different rafting durations arranged by your guide based on your preference and location. Please note age restrictions apply.
Embark on the "Be a Chinese Villager" tour to experience the authentic rural lifestyle. Spend time working in the fields alongside local villagers and immerse yourself in their daily activities. Journey through scenic villages, encounter rice paddies, and take a ferry to the vibrant Fuli market.
Visit the impressive Reed Flute Cave located just 5 kilometers northwest of Guilin city. Named after the reeds growing at its entrance, this is Guilin's largest and most breathtaking cave. With a length of 240 meters and a tour covering about 550 meters, you'll enter a magical world of awe-inspiring stalactites,
Discover the iconic Elephant Trunk Hill (40 minutes), located at the junction of Li River and Peach Blossom River in Guilin. Standing at 55 meters tall, this hill is Guilin's symbol, resembling an elephant drinking water from the Li River with its trunk. Explore the hill adorned with an array of caves and crowned by a charming small pagoda.
Experience the best of Hong Kong with a visit to Victoria Peak, a one-way Peak Tram ride, a charming sampan boat ride in Aberdeen, and your choice between Repulse Bay or Stanley Market.
Victoria Peak, the highest peak in Hong Kong, offers stunning city views. Ride the historic Peak Tram to the Peak Tower, where you can enjoy panoramic vistas and visit Madame Tussauds.
Explore the picturesque Aberdeen on a traditional sampan boat ride, immersing yourself in the local culture and scenic waterfront.
Our guide will help you transfer from your hotel to Hong Kong Airport for departure with independentcar/van and guide.
Tour Price
Price includes:
- Private air-conditioned business car with big windows and ample space
- English speaking local guide
- Activities, hotels, and meals listed in the itinerary
- 24/7 helpline for while you are traveling
Tour code: cht-cx-15