Kensington
11 Day China & the Yangtze River in Style
11 Day China & the Yangtze River in Style
China is filled with iconic, world-famous wonders, and while it would be impossible to include them all in a single trip, this exciting journey comes very, very close. From the UNESCO-protected sights of Beijing to the Great Wall, from Xi’an’s Terra-Cotta Warriors to the Yangtze, from Three Gorges Dam to the shimmering skyline of Shanghai, this journey is maximum China, start to finish.
First, get to know the political and cultural center of China a little better courtesy of a private tour of some of its most famous landmarks. From Tiananmen Square, you’ll visit the massive Forbidden City and peaceful Temple of Heaven (both UNESCO World Heritage sites) before taking to the waters of Kunming Lake for a relaxing boat cruise. Later, visit China’s most stunning architectural marvel at one of its most impregnable points on a full-day private tour of the Juyongguan section of the Great Wall.
Next stop: Xi’an, the one-time preserve of China’s royal dynasties and home of its most famous long-term residents: the Terra-Cotta Warriors. You’ll come face-to-face with Emperor Qin Shi Huang’s clay soldiers on a private tour, then have the chance to explore the ancient city wall and the Big Wild Goose Pagoda, home to a remarkable collection of Buddhist artifacts. Next, head south to Chongqing and board your five-star riverboat for a three-night cruise along the Yangtze, the longest river in all of Asia. With optional tai chi and reflexology sessions, cultural performances, and delicious dinners on board, a shore excursion with a traditional tracker, and the incredible scenery of the Three Gorges region, your time on the river adds an intriguing dimension to the journey.
After touring the Three Gorges Dam, the most ambitious engineering project in living memory, head on to your last stop: always-on Shanghai. With a private guide, you’ll explore the fascinating network of canals that link the waterside towns near the city, stopping to explore Zhuijiajio (nicknamed “the Venice of the East”) before returning to Shanghai for a lunch of xiaolongbao, a traditional steamed bun, before unwinding in the oasis-like surroundings of Yu Garden.
Kensington Tours creates private trips from the world’s finest ingredients. Tailor-made with care by your personal Destination Expert, your personalized trip is always a one-of-a-kind experience made just for you. Expert local guidance and 24/7 service come standard.
| Day 1 |
Visit Beijing, China’s capital! This majestic city offers plenty of grand monuments, ancient landmarks, and breathtaking sights for you to explore. Begin your Beijing adventure in the heart of the city. Beyond Tiananmen Square, the city’s austere (and infamous) political center erected by Chairman Mao, lies the remarkable Forbidden City. This imperial palace, perhaps the most famous attraction in Beijing proper, will amaze you with its bright red façade and impressive museum, home to beautiful pieces of Chinese art. Nearby Tian Tan or Temple of Heaven, the imperial center for prayer over many dynasties, is fashioned in the same exquisite Chinese architectural style and bursts with lavish reds and golds. Travel mere steps from Tiananmen to gaze in wonderment at the National Center for the Performing Arts, whose illuminated glass dome sparkles over a mirror-like pool of blue water. After visiting the city’s historic landmarks, unwind by browsing unique markets and enjoying some delicious culinary treats. Restaurants throughout Beijing serve savory and crispy peking duck, a staple in the city, but be sure to sample sweet cakes and rice desserts on bustling Wangfujing Snack Street. From lovely jade beads, to vintage tea pots, to distinctive souvenirs, the Panjiyuan Antique Market is the quintessential stop for shopping in Beijing. Venture just north of the capital to see the Great Wall of China, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the world’s most iconic man-made wonders. This vast landmark, whose twisting steps are set upon lush hilltops, is an absolute must-see on any trip to Beijing. The Great Wall’s overwhelming immensity is guaranteed to leave you awestruck. |
| Day 2 |
Visit Beijing, China’s capital! This majestic city offers plenty of grand monuments, ancient landmarks, and breathtaking sights for you to explore. Begin your Beijing adventure in the heart of the city. Beyond Tiananmen Square, the city’s austere (and infamous) political center erected by Chairman Mao, lies the remarkable Forbidden City. This imperial palace, perhaps the most famous attraction in Beijing proper, will amaze you with its bright red façade and impressive museum, home to beautiful pieces of Chinese art. Nearby Tian Tan or Temple of Heaven, the imperial center for prayer over many dynasties, is fashioned in the same exquisite Chinese architectural style and bursts with lavish reds and golds. Travel mere steps from Tiananmen to gaze in wonderment at the National Center for the Performing Arts, whose illuminated glass dome sparkles over a mirror-like pool of blue water. After visiting the city’s historic landmarks, unwind by browsing unique markets and enjoying some delicious culinary treats. Restaurants throughout Beijing serve savory and crispy peking duck, a staple in the city, but be sure to sample sweet cakes and rice desserts on bustling Wangfujing Snack Street. From lovely jade beads, to vintage tea pots, to distinctive souvenirs, the Panjiyuan Antique Market is the quintessential stop for shopping in Beijing. Venture just north of the capital to see the Great Wall of China, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the world’s most iconic man-made wonders. This vast landmark, whose twisting steps are set upon lush hilltops, is an absolute must-see on any trip to Beijing. The Great Wall’s overwhelming immensity is guaranteed to leave you awestruck. |
| Day 3 |
Visit Beijing, China’s capital! This majestic city offers plenty of grand monuments, ancient landmarks, and breathtaking sights for you to explore. Begin your Beijing adventure in the heart of the city. Beyond Tiananmen Square, the city’s austere (and infamous) political center erected by Chairman Mao, lies the remarkable Forbidden City. This imperial palace, perhaps the most famous attraction in Beijing proper, will amaze you with its bright red façade and impressive museum, home to beautiful pieces of Chinese art. Nearby Tian Tan or Temple of Heaven, the imperial center for prayer over many dynasties, is fashioned in the same exquisite Chinese architectural style and bursts with lavish reds and golds. Travel mere steps from Tiananmen to gaze in wonderment at the National Center for the Performing Arts, whose illuminated glass dome sparkles over a mirror-like pool of blue water. After visiting the city’s historic landmarks, unwind by browsing unique markets and enjoying some delicious culinary treats. Restaurants throughout Beijing serve savory and crispy peking duck, a staple in the city, but be sure to sample sweet cakes and rice desserts on bustling Wangfujing Snack Street. From lovely jade beads, to vintage tea pots, to distinctive souvenirs, the Panjiyuan Antique Market is the quintessential stop for shopping in Beijing. Venture just north of the capital to see the Great Wall of China, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the world’s most iconic man-made wonders. This vast landmark, whose twisting steps are set upon lush hilltops, is an absolute must-see on any trip to Beijing. The Great Wall’s overwhelming immensity is guaranteed to leave you awestruck. |
| Day 4 |
Xi'an is the capital of Shaanxi (Shen-hsi) Province, and the cultural center of the historic and agriculturally rich Wei River valley. Historical interests include the tomb of China's first emperor, Shih 0Huang Ti; Shaanxi Provincial Museum; the Big and Little Goose Pagodas; and the Great Mosque. Other points of interest include the tombs of the Tang emperors (618-906); four tumuli (burial mounds); Xi'an Hot Springs; and Banpo, a Neolithic village. |
| Day 5 |
Xi'an is the capital of Shaanxi (Shen-hsi) Province, and the cultural center of the historic and agriculturally rich Wei River valley. Historical interests include the tomb of China's first emperor, Shih 0Huang Ti; Shaanxi Provincial Museum; the Big and Little Goose Pagodas; and the Great Mosque. Other points of interest include the tombs of the Tang emperors (618-906); four tumuli (burial mounds); Xi'an Hot Springs; and Banpo, a Neolithic village. |
| Day 6 |
Xi'an is the capital of Shaanxi (Shen-hsi) Province, and the cultural center of the historic and agriculturally rich Wei River valley. Historical interests include the tomb of China's first emperor, Shih 0Huang Ti; Shaanxi Provincial Museum; the Big and Little Goose Pagodas; and the Great Mosque. Other points of interest include the tombs of the Tang emperors (618-906); four tumuli (burial mounds); Xi'an Hot Springs; and Banpo, a Neolithic village. |
| Day 7 |
The Yangtze River, a magnificent artery of China, stretches over 6,300 kilometers (3,917 miles) from the Tibetan Plateau to the East China Sea. As the longest river in Asia and the third longest in the world, it weaves through breathtaking landscapes and vibrant cities, making it a prime destination for travelers seeking both adventure and cultural immersion. The river is famed for its dramatic gorges, including the renowned Three Gorges – Qutang, Wu, and Xiling – which offer spectacular views and opportunities for river cruises. These gorges are not only natural wonders but also steeped in history, with ancient temples and relics dotting the landscape. Cruising along the Yangtze is a quintessential experience, providing a unique perspective on China's rich heritage. A Yangtze River Cruise takes you through a tapestry of scenic beauty and cultural sites, from the serene beauty of the Lesser Three Gorges to the impressive Three Gorges Dam, the world's largest hydropower project. This grand engineering feat is a marvel of modern technology and offers insightful tours that explain its impact on the environment and local communities. The Yangtze is also pivotal to China's economic and cultural life. Cities like Chongqing and Wuhan, situated along its banks, are bustling hubs of activity with rich histories and modern attractions. In Chongqing, explore the historic Ci Qi Kou Ancient Town and indulge in the city’s renowned hotpot cuisine. Wuhan, known for its vibrant academic and cultural scene, features the Yellow Crane Tower, a symbol of the city’s historical and cultural significance. Fun fact: The Yangtze River is home to the rare and endangered Yangtze Giant Salamander, one of the world's largest amphibians. This remarkable creature is native to the river's clear, cold waters and is a testament to the river's rich biodiversity. |
| Day 8 |
The Yangtze River, a magnificent artery of China, stretches over 6,300 kilometers (3,917 miles) from the Tibetan Plateau to the East China Sea. As the longest river in Asia and the third longest in the world, it weaves through breathtaking landscapes and vibrant cities, making it a prime destination for travelers seeking both adventure and cultural immersion. The river is famed for its dramatic gorges, including the renowned Three Gorges – Qutang, Wu, and Xiling – which offer spectacular views and opportunities for river cruises. These gorges are not only natural wonders but also steeped in history, with ancient temples and relics dotting the landscape. Cruising along the Yangtze is a quintessential experience, providing a unique perspective on China's rich heritage. A Yangtze River Cruise takes you through a tapestry of scenic beauty and cultural sites, from the serene beauty of the Lesser Three Gorges to the impressive Three Gorges Dam, the world's largest hydropower project. This grand engineering feat is a marvel of modern technology and offers insightful tours that explain its impact on the environment and local communities. The Yangtze is also pivotal to China's economic and cultural life. Cities like Chongqing and Wuhan, situated along its banks, are bustling hubs of activity with rich histories and modern attractions. In Chongqing, explore the historic Ci Qi Kou Ancient Town and indulge in the city’s renowned hotpot cuisine. Wuhan, known for its vibrant academic and cultural scene, features the Yellow Crane Tower, a symbol of the city’s historical and cultural significance. Fun fact: The Yangtze River is home to the rare and endangered Yangtze Giant Salamander, one of the world's largest amphibians. This remarkable creature is native to the river's clear, cold waters and is a testament to the river's rich biodiversity. |
| Day 9 |
Also known as “The Paris of the East,” Shanghai is a youthful and cosmopolitan city with a tantalizing blend of Eastern and Western culture. Across the Huangpu River you will see Pudong district’s futuristic skyline, including Shanghai Tower and Oriental Pearl TV Tower. The gorgeous Yu Garden has traditional pavilions, towers and ponds and definitely lives up to its nickname, "Garden of Happiness." |
| Day 10 |
Also known as “The Paris of the East,” Shanghai is a youthful and cosmopolitan city with a tantalizing blend of Eastern and Western culture. Across the Huangpu River you will see Pudong district’s futuristic skyline, including Shanghai Tower and Oriental Pearl TV Tower. The gorgeous Yu Garden has traditional pavilions, towers and ponds and definitely lives up to its nickname, "Garden of Happiness." |
| Day 11 |
Also known as “The Paris of the East,” Shanghai is a youthful and cosmopolitan city with a tantalizing blend of Eastern and Western culture. Across the Huangpu River you will see Pudong district’s futuristic skyline, including Shanghai Tower and Oriental Pearl TV Tower. The gorgeous Yu Garden has traditional pavilions, towers and ponds and definitely lives up to its nickname, "Garden of Happiness." |
| Travel Dates | Price | ||
|---|---|---|---|
|
08/01/20 - 12/31/26 |
Starting At $7,600 |
Get A Quote |
Prices are per person, based on double occupancy. Offer is subject to availability and change without notice. Some restrictions may apply.