We love —
- Discovering a country of endless contrasts, from Beijing’s imperial grandeur and deep-rooted traditions to Xi’an’s legendary Terracotta Army and Shanghai’s bold, futuristic skyline.
- Exploring Pingyao, a beautifully preserved UNESCO-listed fortress city, and Luoyang, former imperial capital famed for the breathtaking Longmen Grottoes.
- Opting for Offer 2 and beginning your journey in Hong Kong with a stay in vibrant Wan Chai, ideally located for harbour walks, lively shopping streets, and iconic skyline views.
New Voyage Privé —
Carefully selected for our members by our experts
I particularly loved the unique atmosphere of Pingyao, where you really feel as though you’re travelling back in time to old China as you stroll through the narrow streets lit up at night. Luoyang and the Shaolin Temple offer a cultural and spiritual dimension that’s very different from that of modern cities. This trip strikes the perfect balance between legendary sites, encounters with locals and more authentic experiences.
Welcome to China —
Discover an immersive journey through China, where ancient heritage meets modern dynamism. This carefully designed itinerary takes you through iconic landscapes, historic cities, and cultural treasures, offering a rich balance of tradition, history, and contemporary life. From imperial landmarks and timeless towns to vibrant urban centres, each stage of the trip reveals a different facet of the country’s unique identity.
Opt for Offer 2 and begin your journey in Hong Kong, staying at the elegant Novotel Century Hong Kong 4*. A dynamic gateway between East and West, Hong Kong welcomes you with its striking skyline, lively harbourfront, and distinctive blend of cultures. Between modern architecture, bustling districts, and scenic viewpoints, it offers the perfect introduction or extension to your journey in Asia.
Our offers:
Offer 1: 8-12 night "Journey through the heart of ancient China" private tour
Offer 2: Novotel Century Hong Kong 4* & 8-12 night "Journey through the heart of ancient China" private tour
- 11 nights: 3 nights in Hong Kong & 8-night tour
- 13 nights: 3 nights in Hong Kong & 10-night tour
- 15 nights: 3 nights in Hong Kong & 12-night tour
Your itinerary in brief —
DURATIONS: 8, 10 or 12 nights
BEST FOR: Cultural immersion
Pace: Moderate
Explore China
Embark on an unforgettable journey through China’s most iconic destinations, where ancient traditions and modern wonders come together. From the imperial treasures of Beijing and the timeless grandeur of the Great Wall to the legendary Terracotta Army in Xi’an, the spiritual heritage of Luoyang, and the dazzling skyline of Shanghai, this itinerary offers a fascinating glimpse into the country’s rich history, culture, and vibrant contemporary life. Travel comfortably by high-speed train and experience the diversity of China through its remarkable landmarks, local traditions, and ever-changing landscapes.
8-night tour:
Day 1: Arrival in Beijing
Day 2: Beijing
Day 3: Beijing
Day 4: Beijing → Xi'An
Day 5: Xi'An → Luoyang
Day 6: Luoyang ⇄ Denfeng
Day 7: Luoyang → Shanghai
Day 8: Shanghai
Day 9: Departure from Shanghai
10-night tour
Day 1: Arrival in Beijing
Day 2: Beijing
Day 3: Beijing
Day 4: Beijing → Pingyao
Day 5: Pingyao → Xi'An
Day 6: Xi'An
Day 7: Xi'An → Luoyang
Day 8: Luoyang ⇄ Denfeng
Day 9: Luoyang → Shanghai
Day 10: Shanghai
Day 11: Departure from Shanghai
12-night tour:
Day 1: Arrival in Beijing
Day 2: Beijing
Day 3: Beijing
Day 4: Beijing
Day 5: Beijing → Pingyao
Day 6: Pingyao → Xi'An
Day 7: Xi'An
Day 8: Xi'An → Luoyang
Day 9: Luoyang ⇄ Denfeng
Day 10: Luoyang → Shanghai
Day 11: Shanghai
Day 12: Shanghai
Day 13: Departure from Shanghai
Please note: your itinerary may have minor adjustments, but your overall trip experience will remain the same.
Your itinerary in detail —
8-night tour
DAY 1: ARRIVAL IN BEIJING
Arrive at Beijing Capital Airport (PEK) and meet your local guide. You’ll be transferred to your hotel and have time to settle in after your journey. The rest of the day is yours to relax and soak up the atmosphere of China’s vibrant capital at your own pace.
Included:
- Private transfer from Beijing Capital Airport (PEK)
- Night in Beijing
Optional:
- Visit to the Temple of Heaven
DAY 2: BEIJING
Step into China’s rich imperial past as you explore Tiananmen Square and the magnificent Forbidden City, the former residence of emperors for nearly five centuries. Continue to Jingshan Park, where panoramic views reveal the grandeur of the royal palace complex. After lunch, discover the art of Chinese tea during a traditional tasting experience.
Included:
- Breakfast & lunch included
- Night in Beijing
DAY 3: BEIJING
Today, experience one of the world’s greatest wonders: the Mutianyu section of the Great Wall. Winding across mountain ridges and surrounded by beautiful scenery, this less-crowded stretch offers a truly unforgettable glimpse into China’s history. After lunch, visit the enchanting Summer Palace, a masterpiece of classical Chinese garden design, with its tranquil lakes, elegant pavilions, and picturesque landscapes.
Included:
- Breakfast & lunch included
- Night in Beijing
DAY 4: BEIJING → XI'AN
Travel by high-speed train to Xi’an, one of China’s ancient capitals. In the afternoon, come face-to-face with the extraordinary Terracotta Army, a vast underground army of life-sized warriors created more than 2,000 years ago to guard the tomb of China’s first emperor. Later, learn about the importance of jade in Chinese culture during a visit to a local workshop.
Included:
- Breakfast included
- High-speed train Beijing → Xi’an
- Night in Xi’an
Optional:
- Tang song and dance show (roundtrip transfer by taxi)
DAY 5: XI'AN → LUOYANG
Begin the day with a visit to Xi’an’s Great Mosque, a remarkable blend of Chinese and Islamic architecture, before wandering through the lively Muslim Quarter. Continue by high-speed train to Luoyang, where the spectacular Longmen Grottoes await. Carved into limestone cliffs, these UNESCO-listed caves are home to thousands of exquisite Buddhist statues and reliefs. End the day with a stroll through Luoyang’s charming old town.
Included:
- Breakfast & lunch included
- High-speed train Xi’an → Luoyang
- Night in Luoyang
DAY 6: LUOYANG ⇄ DENGFENG
Journey to Dengfeng to visit the legendary Shaolin Temple, renowned worldwide as the birthplace of Shaolin Kung Fu and Chan Buddhism. Explore this historic monastery and enjoy a captivating Kung Fu performance showcasing centuries-old martial arts traditions. Return to Luoyang and discover local customs and traditions at the Folklore Museum.
Included:
- Breakfast & lunch included
- Roundtrip transfer to/from Dengfeng
- Night in Dengfeng
DAY 7: LUOYANG → SHANGHAI
Travel by high-speed train to dynamic Shanghai, where China’s past and future meet. Visit the peaceful Jade Buddha Temple and discover the craftsmanship behind China’s famous silk production. Later, enjoy a walk along the iconic Bund, lined with grand historic buildings and offering spectacular views of Shanghai’s futuristic skyline.
Included:
- Breakfast included
- High-speed train Luoyang → Shanghai
- Night in Shanghai
DAY 8: SHANGHAI
Spend the day at leisure exploring the many faces of Shanghai at your own pace.
Included:
- Breakfast included
- Night in Shanghai
Optional:
- Shanghai tour with lunch included
DAY 9: DEPARTURE FROM SHANGHAI
10-night tour
DAY 1: ARRIVAL IN BEIJING
Arrive at Beijing Capital Airport (PEK) and meet your local guide. You’ll be transferred to your hotel and have time to settle in after your journey. The rest of the day is yours to relax and soak up the atmosphere of China’s vibrant capital at your own pace.
Included:
- Private transfer from Beijing Capital Airport (PEK)
- Night in Beijing
Optional:
- Visit to the Temple of Heaven
DAY 2: BEIJING
Step into China’s rich imperial past as you explore Tiananmen Square and the magnificent Forbidden City, the former residence of emperors for nearly five centuries. Continue to Jingshan Park, where panoramic views reveal the grandeur of the royal palace complex. After lunch, discover the art of Chinese tea during a traditional tasting experience.
Included:
- Breakfast & lunch included
- Night in Beijing
DAY 3: BEIJING
Today, experience one of the world’s greatest wonders: the Mutianyu section of the Great Wall. Winding across mountain ridges and surrounded by beautiful scenery, this less-crowded stretch offers a truly unforgettable glimpse into China’s history. After lunch, visit the enchanting Summer Palace, a masterpiece of classical Chinese garden design, with its tranquil lakes, elegant pavilions, and picturesque landscapes.
Included:
- Breakfast & lunch included
- Night in Beijing
DAY 4: BEIJING → PINGYAO
After breakfast, take a high-speed train towards one of China’s most beautifully preserved ancient towns. Arrive in Pingyao, a UNESCO-listed city wrapped in 14th-century walls. Meet your guide and settle into a traditional courtyard guesthouse full of character. In the afternoon, explore the old town: walk along the city walls, wander through narrow lanes lined with historic homes and artisan shops, and discover the former Rishengchang Bank. Visit the peaceful Qingxu Taoist Temple before enjoying a quiet evening in this atmospheric setting.
Included:
- Breakfast included
- High-speed train Beijing → Pingyao
- Night in Pingyao
DAY 5: PINGYAO → XI'AN
Enjoy a relaxed morning in Pingyao, with time to soak in its timeless charm before departure. After lunch, travel by high-speed train to Xi’an, another great imperial capital. Arrival and transfer to your hotel for the evening.
Included:
- Breakfast & lunch included
- High-speed train Pingyao → Xi’an
- Night in Xi’an
DAY 6: XI'AN
- Breakfast & lunch included
- Night in Xi’an
Optional:
- Tang song and dance show (roundtrip transfer by taxi)
DAY 7: XI'AN → LUOYANG
Begin the day with a visit to Xi’an’s Great Mosque, a remarkable blend of Chinese and Islamic architecture, before wandering through the lively Muslim Quarter. Continue by high-speed train to Luoyang, where the spectacular Longmen Grottoes await. Carved into limestone cliffs, these UNESCO-listed caves are home to thousands of exquisite Buddhist statues and reliefs. End the day with a stroll through Luoyang’s charming old town.
Included:
- Breakfast & lunch included
- High-speed train Xi’an → Luoyang
- Night in Luoyang
DAY 8: LUOYANG ⇄ DENGFENG
Journey to Dengfeng to visit the legendary Shaolin Temple, renowned worldwide as the birthplace of Shaolin Kung Fu and Chan Buddhism. Explore this historic monastery and enjoy a captivating Kung Fu performance showcasing centuries-old martial arts traditions. Return to Luoyang and discover local customs and traditions at the Folklore Museum.
Included:
- Breakfast & lunch included
- Roundtrip transfer to/from Dengfeng
- Night in Dengfeng
DAY 9: LUOYANG → SHANGHAI
12-night tour
DAY 1: ARRIVAL IN BEIJING
Arrive at Beijing Capital Airport (PEK) and meet your local guide. You’ll be transferred to your hotel and have time to settle in after your journey. The rest of the day is yours to relax and soak up the atmosphere of China’s vibrant capital at your own pace.
Included:
- Private transfer from Beijing Capital Airport (PEK)
- Night in Beijing
Optional:
- Visit to the Temple of Heaven
DAY 2: BEIJING
Step into China’s rich imperial past as you explore Tiananmen Square and the magnificent Forbidden City, the former residence of emperors for nearly five centuries. Continue to Jingshan Park, where panoramic views reveal the grandeur of the royal palace complex. After lunch, discover the art of Chinese tea during a traditional tasting experience.
Included:
- Breakfast & lunch included
- Night in Beijing
DAY 3: BEIJING
Today, experience one of the world’s greatest wonders: the Mutianyu section of the Great Wall. Winding across mountain ridges and surrounded by beautiful scenery, this less-crowded stretch offers a truly unforgettable glimpse into China’s history. After lunch, visit the enchanting Summer Palace, a masterpiece of classical Chinese garden design, with its tranquil lakes, elegant pavilions, and picturesque landscapes.
Included:
- Breakfast & lunch included
- Night in Beijing
DAY 4: BEIJING
After breakfast, enjoy a leisurely day at your own pace. Relax, explore independently, or simply take in the atmosphere of Beijing before your onward journey.
Included:
- Breakfast included
- Night in Beijing
DAY 5: BEIJING → PINGYAO
After breakfast, take a high-speed train towards one of China’s most beautifully preserved ancient towns. Arrive in Pingyao, a UNESCO-listed city wrapped in 14th-century walls. Meet your guide and settle into a traditional courtyard guesthouse full of character. In the afternoon, explore the old town: walk along the city walls, wander through narrow lanes lined with historic homes and artisan shops, and discover the former Rishengchang Bank. Visit the peaceful Qingxu Taoist Temple before enjoying a quiet evening in this atmospheric setting.
Included:
- Breakfast included
- High-speed train Beijing → Pingyao
- Night in Pingyao
DAY 6: PINGYAO → XI'AN
Enjoy a relaxed morning in Pingyao, with time to soak in its timeless charm before departure. After lunch, travel by high-speed train to Xi’an, another great imperial capital. Arrival and transfer to your hotel for the evening.
Included:
- Breakfast & lunch included
- High-speed train Pingyao → Xi’an
- Night in Xi’an
DAY 7: XI'AN
- Breakfast & lunch included
- Night in Xi’an
Optional:
- Tang song and dance show (roundtrip transfer by taxi)
DAY 8: XI'AN → LUOYANG
Begin the day with a visit to Xi’an’s Great Mosque, a remarkable blend of Chinese and Islamic architecture, before wandering through the lively Muslim Quarter. Continue by high-speed train to Luoyang, where the spectacular Longmen Grottoes await. Carved into limestone cliffs, these UNESCO-listed caves are home to thousands of exquisite Buddhist statues and reliefs. End the day with a stroll through Luoyang’s charming old town.
Included:
- Breakfast & lunch included
- High-speed train Xi’an → Luoyang
- Night in Luoyang
DAY 9: LUOYANG ⇄ DENGFENG
Journey to Dengfeng to visit the legendary Shaolin Temple, renowned worldwide as the birthplace of Shaolin Kung Fu and Chan Buddhism. Explore this historic monastery and enjoy a captivating Kung Fu performance showcasing centuries-old martial arts traditions. Return to Luoyang and discover local customs and traditions at the Folklore Museum.
Included:
- Breakfast & lunch included
- Roundtrip transfer to/from Dengfeng
- Night in Dengfeng
DAY 10: LUOYANG → SHANGHAI
Important information about your tour and visits:
The hotels, which comply with local standards, are indicative and may be changed locally for hotels of a similar category. The itinerary is subject to changes due to compelling reasons such as delayed flights, weather conditions or other cases of force majeure. The order of visits is also subject to change without affecting the overall experience of the itinerary.
Your hotels —
Just for you:
Hand-picked just for you
At each of your stops, you will be staying in comfortable rooms in thoughtfully chosen hotels.
Beijing: Jinglun Hotel 4* or similar
Xi'An: Grand Dynasty Culture or similar
Luoyang: Luoyang Honden Novotel Hotel or similar
Your dining choices
This is a bed and breakfast stay. During the tour, you'll also enjoy a selection of lunches at local restaurants as per itinerary.
Your included extras —
3GB included mobile internet data, to make your journey easier
Stay connected on the move with this exclusive mobile internet offer, perfect for modern travellers. Activate your included eSIM and enjoy connection wherever you go. Easily share your internet connection with friends and family without limits.
Please note: 3GB of internet data represents around 30 hours of web browsing/audio streaming or 3 to 4 hours of video streaming/social networking/video calls.
Your optional excursions & extras —
Day trip to Beijing (Forbidden City + Jingshan Park + Hutong)
Discover Beijing in one day through the Forbidden City, Jingshan Park and the Hutongs, with a local guide, private transfers, lunch with locals and a rickshaw ride included.
Visit to the Temple of Heaven
Discover the Temple of Heaven in Beijing, an imperial jewel symbolising the union of heaven and earth, on a private guided tour with transfer included.
Imperial Evening in Xi'an: Tang Dynasty Show and Dumpling Banquet
Enjoy an exceptional evening in Xi'an, savouring a dumpling banquet while admiring the sumptuous spectacle of songs and dances from the Tang dynasty, a symbol of Chinese cultural refinement.
Day trip to Shanghai
Discover Shanghai in a day, from Chinese traditions and futuristic architecture to lifestyle, from Yu Garden to Jin Mao Tower, via the Bund and the French Concession.
Excursion to Zhujiajiao from Shanghai
Depart from Shanghai for a peaceful getaway to Zhujiajiao, a charming water village with picturesque alleys, ancient bridges and traditional houses, with a guide and local lunch included.
Excursion to Suzhou from Shanghai
From Shanghai, set off to explore the refined gardens of Suzhou and the charming water village of Tongli, with its imperial elegance, peaceful canals and authentic traditions.
Day 1: Visit to the Temple of Heaven
Step into the spiritual heart of Beijing with a visit to the magnificent Temple of Heaven, a masterpiece of imperial architecture where history, symbolism, and local life come together in a truly captivating setting.
Days 4, 6 or 7: Tang dynasty song & dance show
Day 4: Full day Beijing tour (12 night tour)
Discover the soul of old Beijing on an immersive full-day journey through sacred temples and traditional hutongs, where imperial heritage, local life, and authentic flavours come together for a truly unforgettable experience.
Days 8 or 10: Shanghai city tour (8 or 10 night tour)
Experience the vibrant contrasts of Shanghai on a full-day discovery blending elegant parks, historic districts, breathtaking skyline views, and authentic culinary traditions in the heart of China’s most dynamic city.
Day 12: Suzhou & Tongli water town excursion (12 night tour)
Escape Shanghai for a poetic journey through Suzhou and Tongli, where classical gardens, ancient canals, and timeless water town charm reveal the serene elegance of traditional China.
Novotel Century Hong Kong 4* —
Novotel Century Hong Kong 4* rises amid Wan Chai’s bustle, offering a poised sanctuary within the city’s vibrant rhythm. Modern, clean interiors provide a calm and composed setting, where light and space frame a welcoming pause.
Life outside the hotel flows seamlessly through Wan Chai’s bustling streets, where glimpses of history and modern art appear at every turn. The harbour stretches wide, catching the shifting light as ferries glide through the waters, and the city hums softly around you, drawing you toward the rhythm of everyday life. Lively markets spill scents and colour into the streets, while curated boutiques and the calm sweep of Victoria Park offer gentle contrasts, guiding you from exploration back to the composed sanctuary of the hotel, where the day’s energy settles into quiet ease.
Your room —
Enjoy a stay in a Superior Room.
Superior Room
Your dining choices
Just for you:
- 30% discount on food and drinks
This is a bed and breakfast stay.
At Le Café, guests move through a world of scents and colours, sampling dishes crafted from fresh daily ingredients. The bustling yet measured atmosphere allows each bite of seafood, pastry, or salad to be fully appreciated, turning meals into a sensory journey. Pepino Italian Restaurant overlooks Wan Chai, where city lights and quiet conversation meet the flavours of traditional Italian cuisine, complemented by curated wines. AK’s Bar+Lounge offers a sweeping panorama of the city, where signature cocktails and soft lighting create a serene, indulgent pause, allowing guests to savour the cityscape while enjoying intimate moments or spirited conversation.
Your time
The pool offers a crisp, inviting space for swimming or gentle laps, with sunlit terraces providing a calm pause. The fitness centre complements this with a clean, modern environment for stretching, strength training, or energising workouts, letting guests start the day fully refreshed.
Beyond the hotel, Hong Kong pulses with possibilities. Guests can wander the vibrant harbourfront at Victoria Harbour, explore the bustling markets of Wan Chai, or ascend to Victoria Peak for sweeping city panoramas, the skyline meeting harbour waters in a striking display of movement and colour.
Your journey to China —
Flights:
You will be able to choose your airline and flight times when you make your booking, in either Economy, Premium, or Business class, depending on the destination and carrier. This flight may include one or more stopovers. Please review your flight options carefully as departure and arrival airports may differ, in order to offer the best price.
Luggage information
Luggage, meals and other services on board may be subject to an additional fee on certain airlines. It is possible to view details of luggage allowances when you choose your flights at the next stage of the booking process. If luggage is not included with your flight, please go to the airline's website before your departure to purchase your luggage for an additional fee.
For domestic flights, airlines do not always offer the option of reserving luggage. In this case, you will need to pay for it at the airport counter.
You will receive all the information you need to check in for your flights after you have made your reservation.
Your destinations —
China
Welcome to China
Explore the iconic Great Wall, a UNESCO World Heritage site, winding majestically across diverse landscapes, offering breathtaking views and a glimpse into China's rich history. Immerse yourself in the imperial grandeur of the Forbidden City in Beijing, adorned with intricate architecture and imperial gardens. Discover the vibrant cityscape of Shanghai, where futuristic skyscrapers contrast with historic neighbourhoods, creating a dynamic urban tapestry.
Must-sees:
- Walking the Great Wall as it snakes across dramatic ridges
- Exploring the Forbidden City’s grand courtyards in Beijing
- Cruising the Li River through surreal limestone karsts in Guangxi
- Gazing at the Terracotta Warriors in Xi’an
- Admiring pandas at the research centres in Chengdu
Culinary culture:
Food in China is as diverse as its geography. In Sichuan, expect bold flavours, fiery chilli and numbing peppercorns. Cantonese cuisine highlights delicate dim sum and fresh seafood. Beijing is famed for its crisp-skinned Peking duck, while noodles, dumplings and regional street snacks offer everyday comfort. Eating here is as much about sharing as it is about flavour - gathered around a table, meals are a window into culture and community.
Dive deeper:
Beyond its iconic landmarks, China reveals quieter wonders. Explore ancient water towns south of the Yangtze, where stone bridges arch over narrow canals. In Yunnan, Tibetan influences echo through highland monasteries, while in Gansu, the Silk Road caves preserve centuries of devotion.
Festivals add vivid colour: the Chinese New Year in February fills the country with dragon dances, lanterns and fireworks; the Dragon Boat Festival in June brings thrilling boat races and zongzi rice dumplings; and the Mid-Autumn Festival in September lights the night with lanterns and mooncakes, a poetic celebration of family and tradition.
Good to know:
The currency is the yuan (RMB). High-speed trains connect most major cities, making travel swift and easy. Autumn (September–October) and spring (April–May) offer the most comfortable weather.
