ULTIMATE CHINA

On arrival in Shanghai, you will be met by your guide and transferred to your hotel. The remainder of the day is at leisure.

Over the following two days, explore the city with your private guide. Begin in the former French Concession, where tree-lined streets and colonial architecture now house boutiques, cafés and galleries. Walk through Fuxing Park before continuing to Xintiandi and the narrow alleyways of Tianzifang.

Visit the Old Town and Yu Yuan Gardens, a classical example of Chinese garden design, before exploring local markets and bazaars.

A second day introduces Shanghai’s contemporary side, including the M50 art district and the skyline of Lujiazui. Ascend the Shanghai Tower for panoramic views before walking along the Bund and continuing to Nanjing Road and People’s Square.

Evenings are at leisure, with optional experiences such as an acrobatic performance or private touring available.

Stay: 3 nights at The Peninsula Shanghai, in a Deluxe River View Room, including breakfast.

Travel to Zhujiajiao, a historic water town of canals, stone bridges and traditional architecture. After time to explore, continue to the station for your high-speed train to Hangzhou.

In Hangzhou, spend time exploring West Lake, either on foot or by boat, passing pagodas, gardens and causeways. Continue to Lingyin Temple and the caves of Feilaifeng, known for their Buddhist carvings.

Later, visit the surrounding tea plantations, where you will learn about Longjing tea and experience a traditional tea ceremony.

Stay: 2 nights at Banyan Tree Hangzhou, in a Premier Water View Villa, including breakfast.

Travel by high-speed train to Beijing, where you will be met and transferred to your hotel.

Begin with a visit to the Temple of Heaven, where local residents gather for daily exercise, before continuing to the Forbidden City. Time is set aside to explore its courtyards and halls, followed by views across the city from the hill behind the palace.

Another day is spent at the Jinshanling section of the Great Wall, with time to walk along the wall and take in the surrounding landscape.

Stay: 3 nights at The Peninsula Beijing, in a Deluxe Suite, including breakfast.

Visit the Summer Palace before transferring to the station for your high-speed train to Pingyao.

Explore the region’s merchant heritage, including the Wang Family Residence, as well as the village of Zhangbi, known for its underground tunnels. Continue to Shuanglin Temple, noted for its preserved Buddhist sculptures.

Stay: 2 nights at Jing’s Residence, in a Courtyard Room, including breakfast.

Travel by high-speed train to Xi’an. On arrival, transfer to your hotel.

In the evening, explore the city’s food culture with a guided street food experience through the Muslim Quarter.

The following day is dedicated to the Terracotta Army, with time to explore the excavation pits and museum. Return to the city and walk or cycle along the ancient city walls.

Stay: 2 nights at Sofitel Legend People’s Grand Hotel, in a Grand Premium Room, including breakfast.

Travel north towards Shangri-La, stopping at Tiger Leaping Gorge en route.

On arrival, explore Dukezong Ancient Town, known for its Tibetan architecture and atmosphere.

The following day, visit Songzanlin Monastery, an important centre of Tibetan Buddhism, before continuing to Napa Lake, surrounded by mountain landscapes.

Stay: 2 nights at LUX Tea Horse Road Shangri-La, in a Deluxe Room, including breakfast.

Fly to Kunming. On arrival, transfer to your hotel. The remainder of the day is at leisure.

Stay: 1 night at Green Lake Hotel, in an Executive Room, including breakfast.

Travel by high-speed train to Guilin, before continuing by road to Yangshuo.

Spend time exploring the surrounding countryside by bicycle, passing rivers, villages and farmland. Take a bamboo raft along the Yulong River and enjoy the karst landscapes.

In the evening, attend an outdoor performance set against the natural scenery.

Stay: 2 nights at Banyan Tree Yangshuo, in a Mountain View Suite, including breakfast.

Travel to Longsheng to visit the Dragon’s Backbone Rice Terraces. Walk through the terraces and surrounding villages, learning about traditional farming methods and local culture.

Stay: 1 night at Li’an Lodge, in a Terrace View Room, including breakfast.

Transfer to Guilin and continue by high-speed train to Hong Kong. On arrival, transfer to your hotel.

Explore Hong Kong Island, beginning with a crossing on the Star Ferry. Continue to Victoria Peak for views across the city, followed by time at Stanley Market.

Stay: 2 nights at The Peninsula Hong Kong, in a Deluxe Room, including breakfast.

Transfer to the airport for your onward flight.