Legends of China – Pandas, Peaks & Imperial Cities

Includes Return UK Flights with Checked Baggage, 16 Night Stay in China in 8 Different Cities, Multiple Tours Including Great Wall, Terracotta Warriors, Pandas, Temples, Mountains and More

Embark on a 17-day luxury journey across China from Beijing to Shanghai. Enjoy return UK flights with baggage, 5-star hotel stays, domestic flights, and bullet train travel. Explore vibrant cities, ancient capitals, and natural wonders, discovering the rich culture, history, and scenic landscapes that make China an unforgettable destination. This tour combines comfort, adventure, and seamless travel for an effortless experience.

Visit China’s iconic landmarks with guided tours and included entrance fees. Walk the Great Wall, marvel at Beijing’s Forbidden City, and see the Terracotta Warriors in Xi’an. Meet giant pandas in Chengdu, explore Zhangjiajie’s Glass Bridge and Tianzi Mountain, cruise Hangzhou’s West Lake, and climb the Yellow Mountains. Each day brings new adventures, blending history, culture, and nature into an extraordinary journey.

From bustling cities to serene landscapes, this 17-day tour immerses you in the best of China. Stroll through ancient streets, encounter local traditions, and experience stunning scenery at every turn. With 5-star hotels, smooth travel connections, and expert guides, every moment is effortless and memorable. Discover the wonders of China in comfort and style—an unforgettable adventure that stays with you long after you return home.

Head to the airport for your overnight flight from the UK to Beijing. Relax on board as you begin your journey to China, crossing time zones and arriving ready to start your adventure in the capital city. Meals will be served on board, and overnight flights allow you to arrive refreshed and ready to explore.

Beijing

Beijing has over 200 years of history having consistently been the capital of the Liao, Jin, Yuan, Ming and Qing dynasties. Top sights include the Great Wall of China at Badaling, the Ming Tombs, Temple of Heaven, Forbidden City and Tiananmen Square.

Arrive at Beijing Airport, where your driver will transfer you to your 5-star hotel. After settling in, take an afternoon tour of Qianmen Street, a historic area full of traditional architecture, shops, and local snacks. Enjoy your first taste of Beijing’s vibrant culture and bustling streets.

Begin the day at Tiananmen Square, China’s historic heart for national ceremonies. Explore the majestic Forbidden City, home to centuries of emperors, then head to Coal Hill for panoramic views. In the afternoon, wander through Shichahai Hutong and Houhai areas, experiencing traditional Beijing life and a rickshaw ride through ancient alleys.

Visit the awe-inspiring Great Wall at Badaling. Take the cable car up, walk along the historic wall, and admire the panoramic mountain views. Afterward, head to the Summer Palace to stroll through imperial gardens and enjoy a boat ride on Kunming Lake, discovering the serene summer retreat of past Chinese royalty.

Start with a visit to the Temple of Heaven, where emperors worshipped the gods of heaven. Then explore the Silk Market for shopping and souvenirs. In the afternoon, transfer to the train station for a bullet train to Xi’an. Upon arrival, your guide will escort you to your hotel for an evening at leisure.

Xian

Xi’an, one of China’s oldest cities, is world-famous as the starting point of the Silk Road and home to the legendary Terracotta Warriors. Explore the impressive Ancient City Wall, stroll through the vibrant Muslim Quarter, and visit historic landmarks like the Big Wild Goose Pagoda. Xi’an offers a fascinating blend of ancient heritage and modern charm, making it a must-see destination for history lovers and cultural explorers.

Explore the world-famous Terracotta Warriors and their incredible history. Return to Xi’an city to visit the South Gate Ancient City Wall, one of China’s largest and most complete fortifications. Conclude the day with a walk through the bustling Muslim Quarter, visiting the Great Mosque and sampling local snacks.

Travel by bullet train to Chengdu. Upon arrival, drive to Leshan to see the Giant Buddha, the world’s largest stone-carved Buddha. Take a short cruise along the river and climb part of the statue for unforgettable views. Continue to Emeishan for an overnight stay in a 5-star hotel near Mount Emei.

Chengdu

Chengdu, the vibrant capital of Sichuan Province, is world-famous for its giant pandas, spicy cuisine, and rich cultural heritage. Visit the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding to see these adorable creatures up close, and savor authentic Sichuan hotpot in the city that invented it. Explore historic sites like Wuhou Shrine and Jinli Ancient Street, and relax in traditional teahouses that reflect Chengdu’s laid-back lifestyle. With its blend of wildlife, gastronomy, and history - this is one destination not to be missed.

Explore the scenic Mount Emei, taking a cable car to Wannian Temple, one of China’s oldest Buddhist temples. Walk through the lush forest and visit the playful monkeys in their natural habitat. Descend the mountain in the afternoon and transfer back to Chengdu for your overnight stay.

Start the day early at the Chengdu Panda Base to see giant pandas and their adorable cubs during feeding time. Afterward, explore Chengdu Old City, including Jinli Street and Wenshu Temple, to experience the relaxed local lifestyle and historic architecture. Overnight stay in Chengdu.

Fly to Zhangjiajie in the morning. Visit the Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon, famous for its dramatic cliffs, lush forests, and the Glass Bridge, an engineering marvel offering breathtaking panoramic views. Explore the canyon and enjoy the surrounding natural scenery before transferring to your hotel for the evening.

Zhangjiajie

Discover Zhangjiajie (the inspiration for the scenery in the film Avatar), China’s breathtaking natural wonder and UNESCO World Heritage site. Explore Zhangjiajie National Forest Park with its towering sandstone pillars, ride the world’s longest cable car to Tianmen Mountain, walk the thrilling glass skywalks, and visit the record-breaking Glass Bridge over Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon. Perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers, this destination offers stunning landscapes and unforgettable experiences.

Take the Bailong Elevator up to Yuanjiajie and shuttle to Tianzi Mountain, discovering the unique rock formations and dense forests. End the day with a relaxing walk along Golden Whip Stream, a scenic trail that winds through Zhangjiajie’s iconic landscape. Return to the hotel for an overnight stay.

Visit Baofeng Lake and enjoy a tranquil boat cruise. Continue to Tianmen Mountain to walk along the glass skywalk and admire the dramatic scenery. Later, transfer to Changsha Airport for your flight to Hangzhou. Upon arrival, your guide will escort you to your 5-star hotel.

Hangzhou

Hangzhou is a historic and culturally rich city in eastern China, best known for its natural beauty and poetic charm. Located in Zhejiang Province, the city is centered around the famous West Lake, a UNESCO World Heritage Site celebrated for its tranquil waters, arched bridges, pagodas, and willow-lined causeways. For centuries, Hangzhou has been praised by poets and travelers, including Marco Polo, who described it as one of the most beautiful cities in the world. The city’s blend of gardens, temples, and scenic viewpoints reflects traditional Chinese aesthetics and a deep appreciation for harmony with nature.

Beyond its classical beauty, Hangzhou is also a modern and vibrant city. It is a major hub for Chinese tea culture, especially known for Longjing (Dragon Well) tea, grown in the surrounding hills. Visitors can explore tea plantations, historic streets, and cultural landmarks while also experiencing Hangzhou’s contemporary side, with advanced infrastructure and a growing technology sector. This seamless balance between ancient heritage and modern life makes Hangzhou one of China’s most appealing and livable cities.

Explore the serene West Lake on a boat cruise, visit Lingyin Temple, and discover the history of Buddhism in China. Continue to the Tea Plantation and Museum to learn about famous Longjing Tea. Stroll along Hefang Street in the evening, enjoying local shops and traditional snacks. Overnight stay in Hangzhou.

Take the bullet train to Tunxi and visit the picturesque Hongcun Village, famous for its Hui-style architecture and scenic charm. Explore the historic streets and enjoy the peaceful surroundings before returning to Tunxi for an evening visit to Tunxi Old Street. Overnight stay in Tunxi.

Visit the stunning Yellow Mountains, taking cable cars to admire the pine forests, dramatic rocks, and seas of clouds. After descending, transfer to the railway station for the train to Shanghai. Upon arrival, check into your hotel for your stay in China’s modern metropolis.

Explore Yu Garden and nearby bazaars, then visit Shanghai Museum to see ancient Chinese art. Stroll along Nanjing Road and The Bund for modern cityscapes. In the afternoon, visit the water town of Zhujiajiao with a relaxing boat cruise, then return to Shanghai for your overnight stay.

Shanghai

Shanghai is situated just over 900 miles away from Beijing and will give you a taste of China mixed with Historic British involvement - discover Ming Dynasty architecture at Jichang Garden or browse the designer boutiques of Nanjing Road. Shanghai is a fast, modern metropolitan area mixed with colonial and traditional Chinese architecture and has rapidly become one of the most popular cities in the world to visit. Also known as "Paris of the Orient", this is a city to be walked, wandered, explored and discovered in your own style.

Shanghai is a dazzling blend of modern innovation and rich heritage, making it one of China’s most exciting destinations. Stroll along the iconic Bund, where historic architecture meets futuristic skyscrapers, and take in breathtaking views from the Shanghai Tower, one of the tallest buildings in the world. Explore the charming Yu Garden, shop in bustling markets, and experience the city’s dynamic nightlife. From world-class dining to cultural landmarks, Shanghai offers an unforgettable mix of tradition and modernity.

Travel to the charming water town of Zhujiajiao, often called the “Venice of Shanghai,” and enjoy a scenic boat cruise along its canals. Explore the town’s ancient streets, stone bridges, and traditional architecture before returning to Shanghai. On the way back, visit a local silk factory to learn about the history and production of Chinese silk. Transfer to your hotel for an overnight stay in Shanghai.

Enjoy free time in the morning to relax or explore independently. Transfer to Shanghai Airport for your departure flight back to the UK, taking with you unforgettable memories of your 17-day luxury China adventure.

Origin Trip Start Date Trip End Date Price
London 02/01/27 Saturday 19/01/27 Tuesday £4749 View
London 05/01/27 Tuesday 22/01/27 Friday £4749 View
London 07/01/27 Thursday 24/01/27 Sunday £4749 View
London 09/01/27 Saturday 26/01/27 Tuesday £4749 View
London 12/01/27 Tuesday 29/01/27 Friday £4749 View
London 14/01/27 Thursday 31/01/27 Sunday £4749 View
London 16/01/27 Saturday 02/02/27 Tuesday £4749 View
London 19/01/27 Tuesday 05/02/27 Friday £4749 View
London 21/01/27 Thursday 07/02/27 Sunday £4749 View
London 23/01/27 Saturday 09/02/27 Tuesday £4749 View