Glories of ChinaEscorted Tour, China

This unforgettable 15-day journey takes you through China’s most iconic sights and rich cultural heritage, providing a captivating insight into the country’s ancient traditions and modern marvels. From the awe-inspiring Great Wall and majestic Forbidden City to the serene beauty of the Li River and the vibrant city of Shanghai, this expertly guided tour offers a truly immersive experience.

You’ll stay in quality, well-located hotels throughout, with all meals included. Travel comfortably by air, coach, high-speed train and private transfers. Along the way, explore bustling cities, historic towns, scenic waterways and experience traditional crafts and performances.

From the timeless grandeur of Beijing and Xi’an to the stunning landscapes of Guilin and the cosmopolitan energy of Shanghai, this carefully crafted itinerary blends must-see highlights with authentic local experiences — the perfect way to discover the wonders of China.

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

Marvel at the Great Wall of China at Mutianyu.

Walk along one of the world’s most iconic landmarks, surrounded by stunning scenery.

Explore the Forbidden City in Beijing.

Discover the vast imperial palace complex, rich in history and grandeur.

Visit the Terracotta Warriors in Xi’an.

See the remarkable army of life-sized sculptures guarding the ancient tomb.

Cruise the picturesque Li River in Guilin.

Take in the breathtaking karst landscapes and tranquil waters.

Stroll through the charming old town of Lijiang.

Experience traditional architecture and vibrant local culture.

Enjoy the vibrant cityscape of Shanghai.

Explore the modern metropolis with its impressive skyline and historic Bund.

Witness a traditional kung fu show.

Be entertained by a spectacular performance of Chinese martial arts.

WHAT'S INCLUDED

Touring with guides and entrance fees

Breakfasts: 12, Lunches: 11, Dinners: 12

International flights and current taxes

12 nights in 4-star accommodation

Visa fees for UK passport holders

Li River Cruise, Huangpu River Cruise

Max Group Size: 28

Physical Rating 1 Walking, some steps and time on your feet

AUTHENTIC EXPERIENCES

Terracotta Warriors Workshop

Visit a busy workshop where craftsmen create replicas of the famous Terracotta Warriors and watch them going about their age-old craft with astonishing speed and dexterity.

Hutong Family Visit

Venture into Beijing's atmospheric old neighbourhoods, the hutongs, exploring the narrow alleyways and visiting the traditional courtyard house of a family, who will give you a glimpse into their daily life.

Take a Tai Chi Class

Long practiced in China, many people start their day with a session of Tai Chi. You can do the same with a morning class led by your instructor and continue your day feeling invigorated.

ITINERARY

Day One/Two - Fly overnight to Shanghai

Fly overnight to the cosmopolitan city of Shanghai, also known as the 'Paris of the East'. Depending on your time of arrival, the rest of the day is yours to start soaking up the local culture.

Day Three - Huangpu River Cruise

Shanghai is China's great metropolis, where east and west collide on streets lined with futuristic skyscrapers and 10th-century temples. Start with a visit to the classical Yu Garden, pass through the old town and visit a silk factory. View the city at night from the Huangpu River on a panoramic cruise. This evening, enjoy a meal of Shanghainese cuisine.

Day Four - Explore Shanghai

Travel to Zhujiajiao, one of Shanghai's sleepy water towns and explore its many charms. Return to Shanghai to see the antiquities of the Shanghai Museum before admiring magnificent architecture with a stroll along the Bund.

Day Five - Gorgeous Guilin

Fly to the scenic city of Guilin. Enjoy a stroll through the Seven Star Park and explore the spectacular formations of Seven Star Cave.

Day Six - Li River Cruise

Take a relaxed cruise along the Li River to the charming town of Yangshuo. Around every river bend is a view to take your breath away as jagged karst peaks loom over rural scenes of lush greenery, grazing buffalo and local fishermen. This evening there is an option to watch the spectacular Impression Liu Sanjie music and light show.

Day Seven - Yangshuo

Yangshuo sits in an exquisite rural location, surrounded by landscapes of emerald-green paddy fields and dramatic limestone karsts. Start the day with a relaxing and invigorating session of Tai Chi, taking a class with a master to learn this ancient martial art. Spend the rest of the morning exploring the countryside and enjoy the afternoon at leisure. There are many optional activities available including cycling, rafting and walking.

Day Eight - Explore Gulin

Return to Guilin. Stroll around Ronghu Lake and admire the Sun and Moon pagodas – two towering examples of traditional Chinese Buddhist architecture. Visit the South China Pearl Factory which covers the fascinating 1,700-year-old history of pearling and see the many displays and demonstrations on offer. Later, stop on the banks of the Li River for a photo opportunity with a cormorant fisherman.

Day Nine - Tang Dynasty Dancing

Fly to Xian and visit the Little Wild Goose Pagoda before feasting on traditional Shui Jiao dumplings and watching a lively performance of Tang Dynasty dancing.

Day Ten - Terracotta Warriors

After their fortuitous discovery in the 1970s, the Terracotta Army of China's first emperor, Qin Shi Huang, has intrigued visitors ever since. Spend the morning viewing the enigmatic ranks of life-sized warriors, followed by a visit to the workshop of the craftsmen who recreate terracotta warriors. Later, stroll on the beautifully preserved 14th-century city walls that enclose Xian's old town.

Day Eleven - Bullet train to Beijing

Board the bullet train to Beijing. China's capital, cultural centre and a treasure trove of sights, beneath layers of modernity this fast-paced mega city hides three millennia worth of tumultuous but glorious history. Start exploring with a leisurely stroll through the warren-like hutongs, traditional neighbourhoods, and visit a local family to gain a deeper insight into Chinese culture and local customs.

Day Twelve - The Great Wall

This morning is dedicated to China's most iconic sight – the Great Wall. Taking a walk on this incredible structure is the best way to appreciate the sheer magnificence of the wall itself and the dramatic scenery that surrounds it. Stop by a jade factory then spend the afternoon strolling through the idyllic landscapes of the Summer Palace. End the day watching a thrilling Chinese acrobatic show.

Day Thirteen - Explore Beijing

Soak up the harmonious ambience of the Temple of Heaven, an orderly oasis in a bustling urban landscape. Head to Beijing's symbolic heart, Tiananmen Square, and stroll into the sprawling magnificence of the Forbidden City. A monument to dynasties past, enter through the Gate of Supreme Harmony, into a complex of a thousand rooms and many imperial treasures. Today's sightseeing is the perfect way to build up your appetite for Beijing's most famous delicacy – Peking duck.

Day Fourteen - Fly Beijing to UK

Fly to the UK, arriving home the same or following day.

Glories of China is located in Escorted Tour, China. Accommodation rating is the operators own rating and may not be the official rating. Hotel details correct at 15/07/2025