Itinerary

Begin this Discover China adventure in dynamic Hong Kong. Vibrating with vitality, Hong Kong’s crowded markets, fascinating special interest museums, creative fashion stores and diverse eateries threaten sensory overload of the best possible kind. Sample the city’s famous dim sum brunch and learn Chinese phrases during a language lesson. At night, head down to Victoria Harbour to catch the dazzling light and sound show.

Marvel at stunning jagged-green karst peaks that border the Li River while travelling to Yangshuo, the perfect place to glimpse local traditions. Perhaps get an up-close look at pastoral culture by taking a cruise along the river, which is dotted with weeping willows, rice paddies, crop fields and fishing villages. Encounter fresh local produce on a market tour, then whip up a feast during a cooking class.

Make tracks to Chengdu, the capital of Sichuan Province. Wander down Jinli Street, a slabstone-paved walkway with ancient-style buildings on either side, or perhaps seek serenity within exquisite gardens at the historic Wenshu Monastery. Visit a research base to hear of conservation efforts being made to save the giant panda. When hungry, rouse the tastebuds with local specialities loaded with spicy Sichuan peppers, such as huoguo (hot-pot), la zi ji (chicken with chillies) and mapo doufu (spicy tofu).

Unwind while floating down the famous Yangzi River aboard a cruise, and be blown away by the breathtaking limestone scenery of the Three Gorges. Along the way, stop in at Fengdu Temple to be spooked by the statues that are supposed to represent scenes from hell.

Visit the controversial Three Gorges Dam at Yichang, the site of the world’s largest hydroelectric power plant. Fly to Shanghai to see how ancient traditions and commerce-driven growth have created an old-meets-new dynamic. Admire the Art Deco beauty of the Bund on a walking tour, wander through the exquisite Ming Dynasty-era Yuyuan Gardens, devour a Shanghai-style feast and be amazed by the death-defying Shanghai Acrobats before saying zài jiàn to China.