14-Day China Journey for Senior Travelers
This route is designed as a first China journey for mature travelers. In one trip, it brings together Beijing and Shanghai—the political and economic faces of modern China—so guests do not only visit the country, but begin to understand it.
Chengdu then changes the rhythm completely: as one of China’s most comfortable cities, with its local teahouse culture and beloved giant pandas, it helps guests settle naturally into everyday life here. Mount Emei, reached comfortably by cable car, offers the China many travelers imagine before arriving: Golden Summit views, a sea of clouds, sacred mountain stillness, and a deeply rooted Buddhist atmosphere. The Yangtze cruise then becomes a hotel floating on the river, carrying guests through dramatic scenery, from stop to stop, toward the monumental scale of the Three Gorges Dam and its ship lift—one of China’s great engineering spectacles. The journey ends in Shanghai, the image of today’s China: open, elegant, and ready to welcome the next visit.
We suggest arranging the 14 days as follows:
| Day | City | Content |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1-3 | Beijing | Imperial palaces, grand ceremonial architecture, and the Great Wall unfolding across mountain ridges — balanced with peaceful gardens, local teahouse moments, and Beijing’s iconic dining experiences. |
| Day 4-5 | Chengdu | A softer rhythm of life with giant pandas, lively parks, and traditional tea culture — where everyday China feels relaxed, welcoming, and deeply human. |
| Day 6 | Leshan& Mount Emei | A monumental riverside Buddha carved into cliffs, followed by a transition into cooler mountain air, forested slopes, and a quieter spiritual landscape. |
| Day 7 | Mount Emei | Golden Summit views above the clouds, sacred temples, and a serene mountain atmosphere — where nature and Buddhism come together in one of China’s most iconic settings. |
| Day 8 | Chongqing | A journey from old Sichuan teahouse culture to Chongqing’s dramatic mountain cityscape — layered city views, river crossings, and vibrant night scenes. |
| Day 9-11 | Yangtze Cruise | Slow travel along the Yangtze River, with cultural stops, legendary landscapes of the Three Gorges, and time to relax as scenery unfolds effortlessly around you. |
| Day 12-14 | Shanghai | A refined finale with skyline views, historic riverfronts, traditional gardens, and modern lifestyle districts — ending the journey with elegance, contrast, and a sense of arrival. |
Highlights at a glance:
A thoughtfully paced journey designed for senior travelers, combining China’s most iconic cities with its most comfortable and scenic experiences. From imperial Beijing to relaxed Chengdu, from sacred Mount Emei to a slow Yangtze cruise, and finally to modern Shanghai—this route reveals China step by step, without rush or physical strain.
NO.1
A journey that reveals China step by step
From imperial Beijing to everyday Chengdu, from Mount Emei’s spiritual landscapes to the scale of the Yangtze and Three Gorges Dam, and finally Shanghai’s modern energy, the route is designed to explain China progressively—layer by layer.
NO.2
A pace that starts deep and ends easy
From landmark-rich early days to a more relaxed second half, the journey shifts in rhythm. Cable cars reduce effort in the mountains, and the cruise minimizes packing and transfers, making the later days feel lighter and restorative.
NO.3
A journey grounded in food and local life
From Peking duck to Sichuan cuisine, from Leshan’s Qiaojiao beef to Shanghai’s pan-fried buns, each stop pairs signature flavors with moments like teahouses, foot therapy, and scenic dining—so the experience feels lived-in, not just visited.
NO.4
Travel that flows smoothly throughout
From flights and high-speed trains to private car service, each transition is designed for ease. Even longer connections are softened with thoughtful stops and guide support, keeping the journey comfortable and seamless.
NO.5
Highlights with maximum impact, minimal strain
From the Forbidden City and Great Wall to panda mornings, Mount Emei’s sea of clouds, Yangtze gorge views, and Shanghai’s skyline dining, the route focuses on iconic sights—experienced in the most comfortable and rewarding way.
Quick Access to Your Itinerary
Here’s a suggested itinerary. We’re happy to customize your visit based on your interests and time constraints.
Day 1
Arrival in Beijing
Beijing Airport
Ni Hao and welcome to Beijing, China’s capital city, where imperial history and modern life meet.
Upon arrival at the airport, your local guide will be waiting for you in the arrival hall holding a sign with your name. You will then be transferred by a private, comfortable vehicle to your hotel for check-in.
In the evening, you’ll enjoy a welcome dinner Peking Duck.
After dinner, the rest of the evening is free for you to relax and recover from your journey. If you feel like taking a short walk or exploring the neighborhood, your guide will be happy to offer suggestions.
Hotel Options:
4- to 5-star Hotel in Beijing
Day 2
Beijing | Gardens, Rituals & Local Life
Imperial Garden / Ritual Space / Teahouse
A balanced day exploring imperial elegance, ceremonial architecture, and the relaxed rhythm of everyday Beijing life.
Morning: Summer Palace
Visit Summer Palace, one of the finest examples of Chinese imperial garden design, originally built in the 18th century and later restored during the Qing dynasty. Once a royal retreat, it blends lakes, pavilions, and long covered corridors in perfect harmony. Guests can enjoy views of Kunming Lake, walk along the famous Long Corridor with its painted beams, and experience a quieter, more graceful side of Beijing. Today’s visit focuses on the most comfortable lakeside areas, allowing time for slow walking, photography, and a relaxed appreciation of the surroundings.
Lunch: Beijing Local Cuisine
Enjoy lunch in the historic Qianmen area, where traditional shops and local eateries reflect everyday Beijing life. From handmade noodles to savory pancakes, the dishes highlight northern flavors and wheat-based staples, offering a simple yet authentic taste of the capital.
Afternoon: Temple of Heaven
Continue to Temple of Heaven, a ceremonial complex founded in the early 15th century, where emperors once performed rituals to pray for good harvests. The site is known for its clear symbolic layout and the iconic Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests. Guests experience both its historical significance and its open, tranquil atmosphere, surrounded by ancient pine trees. Your guide will explain the meaning behind its design and rituals, while keeping the visit easy and unhurried.
Afternoon: Hutong Teahouse Experience
In the late afternoon, step into a traditional hutong neighborhood and visit a local teahouse. This quiet stop offers time to sit, enjoy tea, and observe daily life, providing a gentle contrast to the morning’s grand historical sites.
Dinner: Copper Hotpot Dinner
End the day with a traditional copper hotpot dinner. Ingredients are cooked together at the table, creating a warm and interactive meal. This shared style of dining makes it especially enjoyable for families to relax and connect.
Tips: Wear comfortable walking shoes and allow time to move at a relaxed pace. In the afternoon, the teahouse visit offers a perfect moment to rest, recharge, and experience Beijing’s slower rhythm of life.
Day 3
Beijing | Imperial Power & Great Wall Views
History / Landmark / Scenic Views
A day combining China’s most iconic imperial landmark with one of its most breathtaking landscapes.Spend the day at Universal Studios Beijing, one of the largest and most advanced theme parks in Asia. With themed zones inspired by popular films, the park offers a mix of exciting rides, interactive attractions, and live shows suitable for both adults and children.
Morning: Forbidden City
Visit Forbidden City, completed in the early 15th century and once home to emperors of the Ming and Qing dynasties. It remains the most complete imperial palace complex in China.
Guests experience its monumental gates, vast courtyards, golden rooftops, and grand throne halls—offering a powerful sense of stepping into the very center of imperial authority.
Lunch: Beijing Local Restaurant
Enjoy lunch in traditional shops and local eateries reflect everyday Beijing life.
Afternoon: Mutianyu Great Wall
Continue to Mutianyu Great Wall, one of the best-preserved sections of the Ming-era Great Wall and known for its beautiful scenery and fewer crowds.
Guests enjoy sweeping views of stone walls stretching across green mountain ridges, with watchtowers appearing one after another along the horizon—one of China’s most iconic landscapes.
To ensure comfort, the visit includes cable car access and focuses on a manageable, scenic section rather than a long or strenuous hike.
Dinner: Peking Opera & Dinner
End the day with a traditional performance combining music, costumes, and storytelling, paired with a northern Chinese dinner.
Tips: The evening is kept light and unhurried, allowing time to rest and recharge for the next stage of the journey.
Day 4
Beijing – Chengdu
Flight / City Walk / Slow Pace
Travel from Beijing to Chengdu and gradually shift into a slower, more relaxed rhythm of life.
Morning: Flight to Chengdu (approx. 3 hours)
Fly to Chengdu (approx. 3 hours). Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel by private vehicle, ensuring a smooth and comfortable transition.
Afternoon: Taikoo Li Walk
Take a gentle walk through Taikoo Li Chengdu, a modern open-air complex where contemporary architecture blends seamlessly with traditional design elements.
The area feels open, stylish, and easy to explore, offering a relaxed introduction to Chengdu’s lifestyle without the need for a structured sightseeing program.
Dinner: Sichuan Cuisine
Enjoy a carefully selected Sichuan dinner, featuring classic dishes such as Chen Mapo Tofu. Flavors can be adjusted to your preferred spice level, ensuring both authenticity and comfort.
Hotel Options:
4- to 5-star Hotel in Chengdu
Tips:Sichuan cuisine can be adjusted to suit your taste. If you prefer non-spicy options, your guide will be happy to recommend milder dishes.
Day 5
Chengdu | Pandas & Tea Culture
Wildlife / Local Life / Relaxation
A day that captures Chengdu’s most beloved symbol and its famously relaxed way of life.
Morning: Giant Panda Base
Begin your day with a visit to Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding. Here you will have the chance to observe giant pandas up close as they eat, play, and rest in a carefully designed natural environment that closely resembles their wild habitat. In addition to giant pandas, you may also see the adorable red pandas (lesser pandas), known for their fluffy tails and playful behavior as they move through the trees. These charming animals are equally beloved and add an extra highlight to the visit. This is one of the most memorable and beloved experiences in China, especially for families.
Lunch: Panda-Themed Bamboo Feast
Enjoy a thoughtfully designed panda-inspired lunch, drawing inspiration from the natural diet of Chengdu’s most iconic residents. Centered around bamboo shoots and fresh, seasonal ingredients, the dishes are light, balanced, and reflective of local culinary creativity.
Afternoon: People’s Park & Teahouse
Continue to People’s Park Chengdu, a place that reflects Chengdu’s true rhythm of life beyond its landmarks.
Here, guests experience everyday local culture at its most authentic—residents gathering to drink tea, chat, play cards, and enjoy long, unhurried afternoons.
The visit includes a gentle walk through the park, followed by a seated teahouse experience, where you can relax with a traditional covered-bowl tea.
Dinner: Hotpot Dinner & Sichuan Opera (Face-Changing)
End the day with a lively Sichuan hotpot dinner, followed by a traditional opera performance. Experience the famous face-changing art, along with music and storytelling, in a vibrant cultural setting.
Tips: Not into spicy food? We have delicious mild/clear soup options. Alternatively, we can arrange other authentic Sichuan dishes to suit your taste.
Day 6
Leshan & Mount Emei | Culture & Nature Transition
Buddha / Scenic Landscape / Mountain Arrival
Travel from Chengdu into Sichuan’s cultural and natural landscapes, gradually shifting into a quieter and more restorative pace.
Morning: Leshan Giant Buddha
Visit Leshan Giant Buddha, carved into a riverside cliff in the 8th century and recognized as the largest stone Buddha in the world.
What makes this site remarkable is its full visual scale—the Buddha sits calmly above the meeting point of three rivers, creating a powerful and serene presence against the cliff face.
Lunch: Local Leshan Cuisine
Enjoy a local specialty meal featuring Fangfang Qiaojiao Beef, a well-known regional dish offering a flavorful yet approachable taste of Sichuan cuisine.
Afternoon: Arrival at Mount Emei
Head to Mount Emei (approximately 2 hours), one of China’s most sacred Buddhist mountains and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Known for its misty peaks, ancient temples, and rich natural scenery, it offers a seamless blend of culture and nature.
Upon arrival, proceed directly to Leidongping, where the atmosphere already shifts—cooler air, forested surroundings, and a sense of quiet elevation. Take some time to explore the area, including a visit to the nearby Lingjue Temple, a peaceful and lesser-visited stop that offers an early glimpse into Mount Emei’s Buddhist setting.
Afterward, take the cable car from Leidongping up to Jieyin Hall, and continue onward to the Golden Summit. Here, panoramic mountain views unfold, and on clear days, a sea of clouds surrounds the golden statue of Samantabhadra Bodhisattva—one of the most iconic scenes in Sichuan.
Dinner: Dinner at Emei Golden Summit Hotel
In the evening, enjoy a relaxing dinner at the restaurant inside your hotel on the Golden Summit of Mount Emei. There’s no need to worry about dining options at the summit—despite its high-altitude location, the hotel offers a comfortable and satisfying selection of meals. Guests can choose from à la carte dishes featuring local flavors, or opt for a vegetarian buffet inspired by Buddhist cuisine. Whether you prefer a hearty meal or a lighter, plant-based option, you can enjoy a warm and fulfilling dining experience while surrounded by the serene atmosphere of Mount Emei.
Hotel Options:
4- to 5-star Hotel on Mountain Emei
Tips：If you’re not a fan of early sunrises, we can arrange for you to stay at a hot spring hotel at the foot of Mt. Emei instead, where you can enjoy a more relaxing morning.
Day 7
Mount Emei – Chengdu | Sunrise
Sunrise / Nature / Reflection / Historic Teahouse
A highlight day of the journey, where dramatic mountain landscapes meet deep-rooted Buddhist culture in a peaceful and elevated setting.
Morning: Golden Summit & Huazang Temple
Begin the day at the Golden Summit, the highest and most iconic point of Mount Emei.
Here, guests experience the dramatic contrast of vast sky above and a sea of clouds below, with golden Buddhist structures set against the mountain’s ever-changing light and mist.
Visit Huazang Temple, located at the summit, one of the most important temples on Mount Emei. Nearby stands the magnificent Samantabhadra statue, a symbol of wisdom and virtue in Buddhist tradition, offering both cultural meaning and a powerful visual highlight.
This part of the visit focuses on the summit’s open views and spiritual atmosphere, allowing time to walk, take photos, and fully appreciate the setting without rushing.
Late Morning: Cable Car Descent to Leidongping
Descend from the Golden Summit by cable car back to Leidongping, ensuring a smooth and energy-saving transition from the high-altitude area.
Midday: Scenic Transfer to Wuxiangang
From Leidongping, take an eco-bus (approx. 1.5 hours) down to Wuxiangang Station.
This scenic drive gradually shifts the landscape from open mountain peaks to dense forest, marking a gentle transition into a more intimate and natural side of Mount Emei.
Afternoon: Qingyin Pavilion & Ecological Monkey Area
Then head to Qingyin Pavilion, one of the most serene and scenic areas on Mount Emei. Nestled in a lush forest landscape with flowing streams and stone bridges, Qingyin Pavilion is often described as a “natural music hall,” where the sound of running water blends beautifully with the surrounding mountain atmosphere.
From here, proceed to the Ecological Monkey Area, where Mount Emei’s famous wild Tibetan macaques can be observed in their natural environment. These monkeys are known for being lively and curious, often appearing along forest paths. Visitors are advised to enjoy viewing them from a safe distance while appreciating the rich ecology and fresh mountain air.
Afternoon: Gaiwan Tea Experience at a Historic Teahouse
Stop at Pengzhen Old Teahouse, a place valued not for polish, but for its authenticity—preserving a style of everyday Sichuan life that has largely disappeared elsewhere.
Guests experience worn wooden beams, aged tables, and a deeply local atmosphere, with the well-known Mao portrait adding to its distinctive historical character.
Evening: High-Speed Train to Chongqing (approx. 1.5 hours)
After a simple local meal, board a comfortable high-speed train to Chongqing. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel for check-in.
Evening: Light Dinner & Foot Massage
Enjoy a light dinner, followed by a relaxing foot massage session—an ideal way to relieve fatigue after the mountain segment and travel day.
Hotel Options:
4- to 5-star Hotel in Chongqing
Tips: For guests with limited mobility, the Mount Emei itinerary can be adjusted. After reaching Leidongping by cable car, the visit can conclude there for a more comfortable experience.
Day 8
Chongqing | Mountain City & Night Views
Cityscape / River / Food
A visually striking day exploring Chongqing’s dramatic terrain, layered cityscape, and vibrant night atmosphere.
Morning: Yangtze River Cableway
Ride the Yangtze River Cableway, one of Chongqing’s most iconic urban experiences. The city is defined by its terrain—mountains, rivers, bridges, and steep vertical layers—and this cableway offers one of the most direct ways to feel it. From the cabin, the river opens beneath you while towers rise along the banks, creating the sensation of being suspended between water and skyline. The ride is arranged as a one-way crossing, followed by a short and manageable scenic walk.
Lunch: Chongqing Street Food Experience
Enjoy a casual local lunch featuring Chongqing’s everyday favorites, such as spicy noodles and wontons. Simple yet full of flavor, these dishes offer an authentic taste of the city’s bold and comforting food culture.
Afternoon: Chongqing Cityscape Exploration
Explore Chongqing’s layered cityscape, known for its dramatic elevations and cinematic views. Visit the Crown Escalator, Liziba Station, and Kuixinglou for some of the city’s most iconic perspectives, all with easy access and minimal walking.
Dinner: Chongqing Hotpot
Enjoy a traditional Chongqing hotpot dinner, one of the city’s most famous and immersive culinary experiences.
Evening: Hongyadong Night View
Visit Hongyadong in the early evening, when its stilted architecture lights up along the riverfront. Rather than an ancient monument, Hongyadong stands out as one of Chongqing’s most recognizable visual symbols, offering one of the most atmospheric night scenes in western China.
Tips: Not into spicy food? We have delicious mild/clear soup options. Alternatively, we can arrange other authentic Sichuan dishes to suit your taste.
Day 9
Chongqing | Embark on Yangtze Cruise
Leisure / Transition / Scenic Travel
A transition day where the journey shifts from dynamic city exploration to a slower, more restorative rhythm on the Yangtze River.
Morning: Free & Easy Start
Enjoy a slow and relaxed morning in Chongqing, with time to rest or take a short walk nearby before departure.
Afternoon: Embark Yangtze Cruise
Transfer to the cruise terminal and board your Yangtze River cruise, with luggage handling and embarkation arranged smoothly.
This marks the beginning of a new travel rhythm—where the journey itself becomes the experience.
Dinner: Onboard Experience
Settle into your cabin and enjoy your first dinner onboard.
As the ship departs, take time on deck to watch Chongqing’s skyline gradually fade into the distance, signaling the transition from city energy to river tranquility.
Tips：Wear comfortable, non-slip shoes, as boarding areas and decks may have slight elevation changes.
Day 10
Yangtze Cruise | Culture Along the River
History / Culture / River Journey
Begin your Yangtze cruise experience with a blend of cultural sites and riverside landscapes.
Morning: Fengdu Ghost City
Visit Fengdu Ghost City, a unique cultural site with over 2,000 years of history.
Known for its Taoist-inspired “underworld” theme, the site reflects traditional Chinese beliefs about life, death, and the afterlife.
Guests experience temples, statues, and symbolic architecture that together create a fascinating and thought-provoking introduction to Chinese spiritual culture.
Afternoon: Zhongxian & “War Fire of the Three Kingdoms” Show
Stop in Zhongxian to experience the large-scale live performance Fengyan Sanguo (War Fire of the Three Kingdoms).
Set against the riverside landscape, this open-air show combines history, storytelling, lighting, and performance to bring the legendary Three Kingdoms era to life in a visually engaging way.
Evening: Cruise Dining & River Views
Return to the ship and enjoy dinner onboard as the cruise continues downstream.
Day 11
Yangtze Cruise | Three Gorges & Scenic Exploration
Nature / Landscape / Cultural Heritage
A highlight day as the cruise enters the most iconic section of the Yangtze River.
Morning: White Emperor City (Baidi City)
Visit White Emperor City, a historic site overlooking the Yangtze River.
With deep connections to Chinese history and classical poetry, this location offers both cultural depth and panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and river.
Midday: Entering the Three Gorges
Sail into the Three Gorges, where the landscape transforms dramatically.
Steep cliffs rise on both sides, the river narrows, and the scenery becomes one of China’s most iconic natural wonders.
Afternoon: Shennv Stream Excursion
Transfer to a smaller boat to explore Shennv Stream (Goddess Stream).
Here, the experience becomes more intimate—narrow waterways, lush cliffs, and quiet surroundings offer a closer connection to the natural beauty of the gorges.
Dinner: Cruise Dining
Return to the ship for dinner as the journey continues through the gorge landscapes.
Tips: Enjoy extended time on deck, watching the changing scenery in a relaxed and uninterrupted setting.
Day 12
Yangtze – Shanghai
Engineering / Transition / City Arrival
A day that concludes the river journey and transitions smoothly into Shanghai.
Morning: Three Gorges Dam & Ship Lift
Pass through the Three Gorges Dam, the world’s largest hydroelectric project. Guests witness its immense scale and, where available, experience the famous ship lift—one of the most impressive engineering features on the Yangtze River.
Midday: Disembark in Yichang
Arrive in Yichang and disembark the cruise. Transfer directly to the airport with assistance for a smooth onward journey.
Afternoon: Flight to Shanghai (approx. 2 hours)
Fly from Yichang to Shanghai. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel and begin the final stage of your China journey.
Evening: Dinner at Yuanyuan Shanghai Cuisine
Enjoy dinner at Yuanyuan Shanghai Cuisine, a well-regarded local restaurant known for its authentic Shanghainese flavors. Here, guests can experience classic “benbang” cuisine—featuring rich, slightly sweet dishes that reflect the city’s culinary traditions. This dinner offers a warm and grounded introduction to Shanghai’s local food culture, providing a satisfying and authentic end to the day.
Evening: The Bund Walk
Visit The Bund, one of Shanghai’s most defining historic riverfronts and the clearest place to understand the city’s layered identity. Here, guests immediately experience the contrast—historic European-style facades on one side of the Huangpu River, and the modern skyline of Lujiazui on the other. This unique setting brings together different eras of China in a single view. The visit is timed for the evening, when the skyline lights up and the waterfront is at its most atmospheric.
Tips: If preferred, the dinner can be upgraded to the stylish FLAIR Rooftop Restaurant & Bar at The Ritz-Carlton Shanghai, Pudong, offering a high-altitude dining experience with spectacular panoramic views of the Shanghai skyline.
Day 13
Shanghai | Culture, Food & Skyline
Modern China / Lifestyle / Culinary Experience
A final day that brings together Shanghai’s modern skyline, historic quarters, and refined dining—creating a complete and memorable ending to the journey.
Morning: Shanghai Tower (Top of Shanghai)
Visit Shanghai Tower, one of the tallest buildings in the world and a defining symbol of modern China. Guests experience the “Top of Shanghai” observation deck, where the city unfolds in every direction—layered skylines, the Huangpu River below, and a sweeping sense of scale that captures Shanghai’s global presence.
Lunch: Dahuchun Pan-Fried Buns
Enjoy lunch at Dahuchun, a well-known name associated with Shanghai-style shengjian (pan-fried soup buns). Freshly made, with crisp bottoms and juicy filling, this meal offers a direct and authentic taste of local life—simple, flavorful, and deeply rooted in the city’s food culture.
Afternoon: Yuyuan Area Exploration
Explore the Yuyuan Garden area, where traditional architecture, garden landscapes, and old commercial lanes present a different side of Shanghai. Here, guests experience a contrast to the modern skyline—discovering a city that is also historical, detailed, and culturally layered.
Afternoon: Xintiandi Café Break
Continue to Xintiandi, a stylish district where traditional stone-gate architecture has been transformed into a vibrant modern space. Enjoy a relaxed coffee break, taking time to sit and experience Shanghai’s contemporary lifestyle at an easy pace.
Evening: Farewell Dinner at Jin Xuan
Enjoy a farewell dinner at Jin Xuan Chinese Restaurant, a Michelin one-star Cantonese restaurant located in The Ritz-Carlton Shanghai, Pudong. Known for its refined Cantonese cuisine and elegant presentation, the restaurant offers panoramic views over Pudong and the Huangpu River. A perfect closing moment—combining exceptional dining with one of Shanghai’s most iconic skylines.
Day 14
Departure
Shanghai Airport
Your guide, driver, and private vehicle will pick you up at the hotel and transfer you to the airport. The guide will accompany you and assist with check-in and security procedures, marking the end of your journey.
We look forward to welcoming you again in more cities across China.
Trip Notes
Every element of the tour above can be tailored. Feel free to tell us your ideas and we will be happy to make adjustments for you.
1. Extend the Tour
- Hangzhou — Add 1–2 days:
Unwind by West Lake, one of China’s most celebrated landscapes. Gentle lakeside walks, classical gardens, and tea plantations create a refined atmosphere where scenery and culture blend effortlessly. This extension is ideal for slowing down after Shanghai, offering a peaceful and elegant continuation of the journey.
- Xi’an — Add 2–3 days:
Step further into China’s ancient past in Xi’an, one of the country’s oldest capitals.Home to the Terracotta Army, the city offers a powerful look at imperial history, along with well-preserved city walls and a rich Silk Road heritage. The pace here remains comfortable, with meaningful historical depth and distinctive northern cuisine.
- Zhangjiajie — Add 2–3 days:
Discover the extraordinary landscapes of Zhangjiajie, known for its towering sandstone pillars and mist-filled valleys. With well-developed access (including cable cars and elevators), guests can enjoy dramatic views without demanding physical effort. This extension provides a striking natural contrast to the cultural journey.
- More destinations: Huangshan · Yangshuo · Lijiang · Xiamen
Let us know your interests, and we’ll be happy to recommend destinations and design an itinerary just for you.
2. Accommodation
We offer a full range of accommodation options, from international five-star hotels and well-located four-star properties to comfortable three-star hotels and distinctive boutique guesthouses. Your dedicated travel consultant will carefully match the best option to your preferences and budget, ensuring comfort and relaxation throughout your journey.
Alternative: A Tranquil Escape at the Foot of the Mountain Emei
If you prefer a relaxing retreat over an early sunrise trek, we offer an exquisite alternative: The Hongzhushan Zen Tea House (Chanyi Shanju). Located at the base of Mount Emei, this hotel is a sanctuary of peace, blending modern luxury with ancient Zen philosophy.
A Natural Oxygen Bar: Nestled next to the historic Baoguo Temple, the hotel is surrounded by 440,000 $m^2$ of ancient forest and pristine lakes. With negative oxygen ion levels 3,000 times higher than typical cities, every breath is a refreshment.
Private Hot Springs & Scenic Balconies: Experience ultimate privacy in rooms featuring oversized balconies with private hot spring tubs. You can soak in mineral-rich waters sourced from 20 million-year-old forest springs while watching the “Lofeng Clouds” (one of Emei’s ten famous sights) drift across the peaks.
The Spirit of Zen, Tea, and Bamboo: The hotel is designed around the core elements of “Tea, Zen, and Bamboo.” Guests can immerse themselves in traditional cultural activities, such as sutra copying, tea ceremonies, or forest yoga. It is the perfect place to disconnect from the world and reconnect with yourself.
Family-Friendly Luxury: The resort is incredibly welcoming for families, featuring safe forest walking trails, kid-friendly hot spring pools, and spacious 65 $m^2$ rooms that provide plenty of space for everyone to relax.
3. Transportation
Given China’s vast geography, we design your itinerary using a smart combination of flights and high-speed trains. For long-distance, cross-province travel, direct flights are prioritized to save time. For shorter intercity journeys (generally under six hours), we recommend comfortable and efficient high-speed rail, allowing you to enjoy the scenery along the way. All transportation arrangements will be clearly explained during itinerary planning.
Throughout the trip, you will enjoy a dedicated private vehicle with a professional driver, offering door-to-door service between airports, train stations, hotels, and attractions. There’s no need to handle luggage or navigate busy public transport—everything is taken care of for you, allowing for a smooth and stress-free experience.
More than just convenience, the private car becomes a comfortable space for families to relax, reconnect, and spend quality time together between activities. Whether it’s a quiet moment for children to rest or time to share experiences as a family, this flexible and personal environment adds significant value to your journey.
4. Dining
- Daily lunches are included in the itinerary. We carefully select restaurants that are highly regarded by local residents, allowing you to enjoy authentic regional flavors in a comfortable setting. Your guide will assist with ordering and introduce the cultural background behind each dish, making every meal part of the experience.
- In some locations, we also allow flexibility by giving you free time to explore and dine at your own pace. During these moments, your guide will be happy to recommend trusted nearby restaurants based on your preferences, so you can enjoy a more spontaneous and personal dining experience.
- We are happy to accommodate special dietary requirements—including vegetarian, halal, gluten-free, and food allergies—just let us know in advance when booking.
5. Guide Services
We work with experienced, attentive English-speaking guides who will accompany you throughout the journey. They are not only knowledgeable storytellers of history and culture, but also thoughtful travel companions who can adjust the pace as needed and help you discover local experiences beyond guidebooks. If you require guides in other languages, please inform us in advance.
5. Food Allergy Notice
As this itinerary focuses on regional culinary experiences, many dishes may contain common allergens such as shellfish, fish, peanuts, soy, sesame, eggs, dairy, and gluten, as well as various herbs and spices commonly used in Cantonese and Chaoshan cuisine.
If you have any food allergies, dietary restrictions, or ingredients you wish to avoid, please inform us in advance of your trip so we can do our best to make suitable arrangements.
