Legendary Yangtze Cruise
Shanghai - Suzhou - Yichang - Yangtze River (cruise) - Chengdu - Guilin - Yangshuo - Xi'an - Beijing
Duration
18 days
Tour Type
Group
Price From
£4,690 pp
Immerse yourself in the beauty of China’s stunning natural landscapes as well as discovering the country’s rich heritage and exciting future.
With the help of leading tour specialist Emperor Tours from Shanghai you’ll be taken on a spectacular 5* scenic cruise along the mighty Yangtze’s Three Gorges with its twisting canyons and towering mountains. You’ll visit the majestic red pavilions at Shibaozhai as well as the legendary Giant Panda Breeding Research Base at Chengdu. You even get to ride a bike and learn to cook!
River trip over, you travel to one of China’s most picturesque cities at Guilin and from there to Xi’an with its Ancient City Walls and magnificent life-size Terracotta Warriors. The tour ends with time to explore Beijing including trips to the Great Wall of China, Tiananmen Square and Summer Palace.
Day 1 - UK to Shanghai
Day 1 - UK to Shanghai
Take international scheduled flight from London Heathrow to Shanghai.
(We can also arrange flights from other UK airports; upgrade to premium economy class or business class available on request)
Day 2 - Shanghai
Day 2 - Shanghai
On arrival at Shanghai Pudong Airport we’ll be met by our guide and driver and taken by private transfer to the 5* Okura Garden Hotel situated in the heart of the city centre.
Later in the afternoon, after a well earned rest, we visit the Old Town and the enchanting Yuyuan Garden, a place of peace and comfort in the heart of bustling Shanghai, dating back to the Ming Dynasty.
Tonight after a scrumptious dinner, your guide will take you for a leisurely walk along the Bund – Shanghai’s famous waterfront, where you will be treated with the breathtaking skyline on both sides of the Huangpu River. An excellent and relaxing way to end our first day in China!
Day 3 - Shanghai / Suzhou
Day 3 - Shanghai / Suzhou
This morning we journey by coach to Suzhou – China’s garden city, known as the ‘Oriental Venice’, renowned for its canals, arched stone bridges and silk products.
We spend time at two of Suzhou’s most popular gardens – Humble Administrator’s Garden and Garden of the Master of the Nets, with their charming natural beauty and harmonious construction.
We also have time to visit the city’s famous Silk Museum and Panmen Gate, the oldest city gate in existence in Suzhou city consisting of water and land gates.
We end our day returning to Shanghai in the evening.
Day 4 - Shanghai to Yichang
Day 4 - Shanghai to Yichang
We start the tour today with a visit to the Jade Buddha Temple – one of the few working monasteries in the city
In the afternoon we take a flight to Yichang. Upon arrival, our private transfer takes us to the 5* Yangtze Cruise for a late evening departure, and the beginning of our cruise along the mighty Yangtze!
Day 5 - Yangtze River
Day 5 - Yangtze River
Our cruise* starts today with a visit to the Three Gorges Dam, a hydroelectirc gravity dam that spans the Yangtze and is the world’s largest power station in terms of installed capacity.
We continue to sail through the Three Gorges Shiplocks and Xiling Gorge, the largest and most downstream of the famous Three Gorges. *Cruise schedule may be subject to change, depending on the water level.
Day 6 - Yangtze River
Day 6 - Yangtze River
Our cruise today takes an excursion to the beautiful Daning River through its lesser Three Gorges, or a small boat trip to the Shennong Stream – where we can drift along the crystal clear water and be dazzled by the strength and bravery of boat-trackers.
You will then pass through Wu Gorge/Qutang Gorge, the second gorge of the Three Gorges which cuts directly through the Wu Mountains, creating a wonderful photo opportunity.
Day 7 - Yangtze River
Day 7 - Yangtze River
Today we enjoy a shore excursion to Shibaozhai (Precious Stone Stronghold) – first built during the Qing Dynasty in 1650, it is a steep rocky hill with a red pavilion leaning against the side, which provides a walkway to the temple at the top of the hill. Depending on water levels, the shore excursion may visit Wanzhou (Wanxian) instead.
Day 8 - Chongqing to Chengdu
Day 8 - Chongqing to Chengdu
This morning we say goodbye to our cruise and disembark the ship at Chongqing for transfer by train to Chengdu. Upon arrival we are taken to visit the Giant Panda Breeding Research Base, one of the most important centres in China for the captive conservation of giant pandas and a highlight of any visit to Chengdu.
Enjoy a sizzling Sichuan style dinner.
Day 9 - Chengdu to Guilin
Day 9 - Chengdu to Guilin
This morning we take flight to Guilin – one of the most picturesque cities in China. Visit the Reed Flute Cave, which got its name from the verdant reeds growing outside it, from which people make flutes.
We then continue our tour to Fubo Hill (also known as Wave-Subduing Hill). A tale has it that Ma Yuan (also known as General Fubo) from the Han Dynasty poured all his pearls into the river on a southern expedition!
After dinner this evening, Emperor Tours will treat you to a refreshing traditional Chinese foot massage – a truly sensual experience!
Day 10 - Guilin to Yangshuo
Day 10 - Guilin to Yangshuo
Today we take a scenic boat cruise along the Li River, sailing through bamboo plains and limestone karst towers, to Yangshuo (a small town near Guilin) with its breathtaking natural landscapes.
Enjoy lunch on the boat before disembarking and checking into the Yangshou Mountain Retreat, a riverside gem among Yangshou hotels. We will have time to browse around Yangshuo’s lively local market.
After dinner we will see the well-known speciality of cormorant fishing by local fishermen.
Day 11 - Yangshuo
Day 11 - Yangshuo
This morning we will explore the beautiful surrounding area on bicycle, first visiting Moon Hill (offering a stunning vantage point overlooking the karst landscape of Yangshuo) and the Big Banyan Tree (planted during the Sui Dynasty 581-618).
The afternoon is time to take a well deserved rest! A Chinese Cooking Lesson will be arranged for those who are interested, where you will have the opportunity to learn how to cook (and of course taste) authentic Chinese dishes.
Day 12 - Guilin to Xi'an
Day 12 - Guilin to Xi'an
After breakfast today we fly to Xi’an, the ancient capital of China. Upon arrival we will meet our guide and transfer to the 5* Grand Mercure Hotel Xian On Renmin Square, conveniently located in the shopping and entertainment area of downtown Xi’an.
Later your tour guide will take you to visit the Ancient City Walls, originally built during the Tang Dynasty, it is the most complete city wall that has survived in China, as well as being one of the largest military defensive systems in the world.
We continue to the Bell Tower – beautifully lit with red lanterns, this is the landmark of Xi’an. We will also have time to browse around the colourful local food market in the Muslim quarter.
Our final destination today is the Big Wild Goose Pagoda – known as the best-preserved Buddhist temple complex, the Temple was initially built in 589, during the Sui Dynasty (581-618).
Tonight enjoy a spectacular Tang Dynasty dinner show!
Day 13 - Xi'an
Day 13 - Xi'an
Today begins another highlight of our tour – a visit to the amazing Terracotta Warriors and Horses. Built over 2,000 years ago, to guard the tomb of Emperor Qinshihuang, over 7,000 life-size soldiers, horses and chariots lay undiscovered until 1974 when they were uncovered by a farmer. This is truly one of the greatest archaeological discoveries of the 20th century and now a must-see UNESCO World Heritage Site.
In the afternoon we continue to visit the Huaqing Hot Spring, a must for every visitor to Xi’an. For centuries emperors came here to bathe and enjoy the scenic beauty. It has been a favourite spa since the Tang Dynasty.
Day 14 - Xi'an to Beijing
Day 14 - Xi'an to Beijing
This morning we transfer to Xi’an airport for short flight to Beijing. Upon arrival we will be welcomed by our guide and then continue with a visit to the Temple of Heaven – built in 1420, it was the place where the Ming and Qing emperors worshipped the God of Heaven and prayed for good harvest for the year.
We then continue with a rickshaw tour around old Beijing’s Hutong (alleyways) area – where you can immerse yourself in local history and culture, including a visit to a typical Beijing family courtyard house.
Later we check in to the 5* Artyzen Habitat Dongzhimen Beijing, located in the centre of this amazing city.
Day 15 - Beijing
Day 15 - Beijing
Today we travel outside the city to the world famous Great Wall of China. You’ll have plenty of time to explore the largest man-made structure on earth and one of the Great Wonders of the World. Spend time just taking in the breath taking, panoramic views!
In the afternoon we visit the Ming Tombs where 13 Ming Emperors are buried in historical and palatial mausoleums, surrounded by the spectacular Tiger and Dragon Mountains.
Day 16 - Beijing
Day 16 - Beijing
We start the day with a visit to Tiananmen Square – the largest public square in the world.
Walking through the Gate of Heavenly Peace (with the late Chairman Mao’s huge portrait hanging over the gate), we enter the magnificent Forbidden City, a massive palace compound (home to 24 Emperors since the 15th century) which never fails to impress.
In the afternoon the tour continues visiting the enchanting Summer Palace with its lakes, gardens, teahouses and pagodas. The largest Imperial garden in the world is where Qing Emperors and Empresses stayed between May and October, to escape the pollution inside the city. End your day with a relaxing boat ride on the beautiful Kunming Lake.
Tonight enjoy an entertaining Acrobatic Show.
Day 17 - Beijing
Day 19 - Kathmandu to UK via Delhi
Our final day is free to explore or relax on your own.
This evening enjoy a farewell dinner in a famous Peking duck restaurant, where we can sit together and enjoy our tales of China!
Day 18 - Beijing to UK
Day 20 - UK arrival
Time to return home! After breakfast you’ll transfer to Beijing airport for your flight home.
For those customers who wish to take advantage of the 3 day Hong Kong extension – click extensions tab above.
Beijing - 5* Artyzen Habitat Dongzhimen Beijing
Beijing - 5* Artyzen Habitat Dongzhimen Beijing
Visit the website to see more!
Xi'an - 5* Grand Noble Hotel
5* Grand Noble Hotel
Grand Noble Hotel Xi’an is a luxurious property, managed by Grand Noble Hotels & Resorts. The hotel offering comprehensive facilities and services for leisure and business stays. It is conveniently located in the commercial center, shopping and entertainment area of downtown Xi’an, neighboring several popular tourist attractions. Bell Tower and Forest of Stone Steles Museum is 10 minutes-walk away.
For more information click here.
Chengdu - 4* Buddha Zen Hotel or Tianfu Sunshine Hotel
4* Buddha Zen Hotel or Tianfu Sunshine Hotel
Buddha Zen Hotel, a territory for Buddha-worshippers, is located at Wenshufang folk and custom street and adjacent to famous thousands-year Wenshuyuan Buddhist Temple, where you can listen to Buddhist sermons, smell incense, and experience ancient charms everyday.
For more information click here.
Lhasa - 4* Thangka Hotel
4* Thangka Hotel
Thangka hotel is situated beside the Jokhang Temple, the central area of the pilgrimage site. Near the sacred temple and overwhelmed by the religious atmosphere, the hotel is deemed as an auspicious place.
For more information click here.
Gyantze - 3* Gyantze Hotel
3* Gyantze Hotel
Gyantze Hotel is best hotel in the area. All rooms have en suite facilities with hot water, and many have fine views of the medieval town and the surrounding scenery.
Shigatze - 4* Shiga Yangcha Grand Hotel Shigatze
4* Shiga Yangcha Grand Hotel Shigatze
Information coming soon.
Dingri - Roof of the World Hotel
Roof of the World Hotel
Information coming soon.
Kyirong - Kyirong Hotel
Kyirong Hotel
Information coming soon.
Kathmandu - 5* Hotel Yak & Yeti
5* Hotel Yak & Yeti
This plush hotel is 4 km from both Tribhuvan International Airport and Pashupatinath Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Visit the website to see more!
Delhi - 5* Ambassador, New Delhi - IHCL SeleQtions
5* Ambassador, New Delhi - IHCL SeleQtions
Surrounded by dining and shopping options, this upscale hotel is 4 km from Humayun’s Tomb, which dates from 1572. It’s 3 minutes on foot from the nearest metro station.
Visit the website to see more!
Delhi & Taj Mahal
Day 19 - Kathmandu to Delhi
Day 19 - Kathmandu to Delhi
Today we’ll transfer to the airport for our flight to Delhi, India.
Upon arrival you will be met and take private transfer to the 5* Ambassador, New Delhi – IHCL SeleQtions or similar.
Day 20 - Delhi
Day 20 - Delhi
This morning we visit the Red Fort, a fort constructed between 1638-1648 by the Shah. We then continue to Jama Masjid, the Great Mosque of Old Delhi, which is then followed by a rickshaw ride to Chandri Chowk, the main street of Old Delhi to Raj Ghat, which is the cremation site of Mahatma Gandhi.
In the afternoon we tour New Delhi, visiting Qutuab Minar and the Tomb of Mughal Emperor Humayun. Finally today we drive past India Gate (War Memorial), President’s House (which was once the Viceroy’s Palace), Parliament House and Secretarial Buildings.
Day 21 - Delhi / Taj Mahal
Day 21 - Delhi / Taj Mahal
Early morning transfer to New Delhi railway Station to board the Shatabdi Express train to Agra. Breakfast will be served on board the train. Upon arrival we will visit Fatehpur Sikri, a city built by Emperor Akbar but later abandoned due to scarcity of water. We will have the opportunity this morning to see the graceful buildings within the city including Jama Masjid, Tomb of Salim Christi and Panch Mahal.
This afternoon we visit the world famous Taj Mahal, built by Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his second wife who died during childbirth. We will also have time to visit Agra Fort which was constructed on the banks of the Yamuna River. Evening transfer to Agra Railway Station to board the Shatabdi Express back to Delhi. Dinner will be served on board the train, and upon arrival you will be transferred back to your hotel.
Day 22 - Delhi to London Heathrow
Day 22 - Delhi to London Heathrow
Full day free for independent activities. Late evening we transfer to airport for our flight back to UK.
Day 23 - UK arrival
Day 23 - UK arrival
Your taxi will be waiting upon your arrival to transfer you back home.
Includes
Excludes
General Information
Flight Times: 9.5 hours direct from London Heathrow to Beijing.
Time Difference: +7 hours in summer time / +8 hours in winter time (BST).
Currency: Chinese Yuan (official name Ren Min Bi) £1 = approx. 9 CYN.
Money: You can take Sterling cash with you and exchange in China – hotels and banks all provide a currency exchange service. Credit cards are widely accepted and there are ATM machines for withdrawing cash in local currency.
Tipping: Tipping is at your own discretion. We recommended £5 (approx. 45 CYN) per day for your tour guide but it’s entirely up to you based on how good you think your guide and driver are.
Visa: All visitors to China are required to apply for a Chinese visa in advance of travel. Upon booking Emperor Tours will provide visa forms and detailed instructions explaining the application process.
Language: The official language spoken in China is standard Mandarin (Pu Tong Hua).
Best Times to Visit: Generally Spring and Autumn months – end of March to early June and September to early November.
Festivals
Here are the main Chinese festivals and what you will expect to see and experience during these festivities…
Chinese New Year – 1st-15th of the first lunar month
Scrolls and paper-cut pictures, firecrackers and fireworks, New Year visits to family and friends, eating celebratory dishes.
Lantern Festival – 15th day of the first lunar month
Lanterns and fireworks, guessing lantern riddles, folk dances and eating celebratory dishes.
Qingming Festival – April 4th or 5th of the solar calendar
Tomb sweeping, Spring outings and kite flying.
Dragon Boat Festival – 5th day of the 5th lunar month
Dragon boat racing, eating celebratory dishes and tying five-colour silk thread.
Double Seventh Festival – 7th day of seventh lunar month
Praying for skillful hands, appreciating the stars, and eating noodles, and wontons.
Mid-autumn Festival – 15th day of the 8th lunar month
Appreciating and offering sacrifice to the moonlight and eating moon cakes.
Chongyang Festival – 9th day of the 9th lunar month
Eating Chongyang cake, drinking chrysanthemum wine, climbing mountains and appreciating beautiful chrysanthemums.
Winter Solstice – Dec. 21st, 22nd or 23rd in solar calendar
Eating dumplings in Northern areas and sticky puddings in Southern areas.
Laba Festival – 8th day of the 12th lunar month
Eating laba rice porridge.
NOTE: A lunar month is the time between two successive syzygies (new moons or full moons).
Food & Drink
Our China Group Tours include most meals however if you are venturing out to eat on your own all our hotels are in city centres so it’s very easy to find local restaurants. Your guides will be more than happy to recommend restaurants of various cuisines to you. It’s not expensive to eat out in China – a simple meal in a local restaurant costs around £10 per person.
It’s advisable not to use the minibar in your hotel room as it can be very expensive, and you can find cheap soft drinks, beer and wine in supermarkets. Emperor Tours provide bottled water for guests and your hotel will also provide free bottled water in your room.
Social Etiquette
China is a fairly relaxed country regarding etiquette, but there are a few things to be aware of:
Greetings and goodbyes – shake hands but never kiss someone’s cheek.
Religion – dress sensitively when visiting Buddhist (especially in Tibet) and Taoist temples, churches and mosques.? You should avoid touching monks, especially women.
Eating and drinking – its polite to help fill your neighbour’s plate at the dinner table and toast the host and others at the table. At the start of dinner, wait until toasting starts before drinking from your glass.
Gestures – don’t use too many hand movements or excessive body language.
Health Advice
Before you travel, please make sure that you have obtained appropriate medical / travel insurance. There is no compulsory requirement for vaccination – the common recommendations are Hepatitis A and Typhoid and Malaria tablets are required if you travel to Yunnan Province or Hainan Island.
If travelling in Summer months, please bring sunscreen, mosquito repellent etc.
It is not safe to drink tap water in China – please drink boiled water or bottled water only.
Tour Dates & Prices
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Optional tour extensions:
Optional tour extensions:
Optional tour extensions:
Optional tour extensions:
Optional tour extensions:
Optional tour extensions:
Optional tour extensions:
Optional tour extensions:
Optional tour extensions: