Best of China & the Yangtze River with Hong Kong
Best of China & the Yangtze River with Hong Kong
Best of China & the Yangtze River with Hong Kong
17 Days Starting in Beijing, China and ending in Hong Kong
Visiting: Beijing, Xi'an, Chengdu, Chongqing, Mountain Shuanggui, Qutang Gorge, Yichang, Hangzhou, Shanghai, Hong Kong
Tour operator:
Tour code:
OCE-2025
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Cultural, Foodie and Wine Tours, Gardens & Nature Tours, Rail Tours, Wildlife Tours
Tour Overview
Embark on an unforgettable journey through China and Hong Kong with the "Best of China & the Yangtze River with Hong Kong" tour. Experience the grandeur of Tian’anmen Square and the Forbidden City in Beijing, walk along the iconic Great Wall, and marvel at the Terracotta Warriors in Xi’an. Delight in the charm of Chengdu's pandas at the Wolong Giant Panda Nature Reserve and cruise through the breathtaking Three Gorges of the Yangtze River. Explore the Three Gorges Dam Site, enjoy a sampan cruise on West Lake in Hangzhou, and immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Hong Kong with a ride on the Star Ferry and a tour of Hong Kong Island. This tour offers a perfect blend of cultural, historical, and natural wonders, complemented by luxurious accommodations and delectable local cuisine.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive In Beijing,China
Location: Beijing
Accommodation Name: Hotel New Otani Chang Fu Gong
Hotel rooms are available for a mid-afternoon check-in.
Day 2: Beijing
Location: Beijing
Accommodation Name: Hotel New Otani Chang Fu Gong
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
BEIJING Treasures of the Forbidden City Your full-day sightseeing starts with a visit to Tian’anmen Square. Next, explore the Forbidden City, a UNESCO World Heritage site and the largest palace complex in the world. After lunch at a local restaurant, visit the Summer Palace, a beautifully preserved imperial garden. Tonight, savor a special Peking duck welcome dinner. (B,L,D)TOUR HIGHLIGHT HISTORY & MYSTERY Visit the largest public square in the world at Tian’anmen Square. Translated, this Gate of Heavenly Peace carries great cultural significance as the site of many important events in China’s history, including the protests and 1989. The Forbidden City harkens back to China’s great emperors, showcases ancient Chinese architecture, landscaped gardens, and displays of rare art and artifacts.BEIJING-ROYAL-PALACE.jpg
Day 3: Beijing-Great Wall Excursion
Location: Beijing
Accommodation Name: Hotel New Otani Chang Fu Gong
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
BEIJING-GREAT WALL EXCURSION Heaven’s Gates & the Great Wall This morning, visit the Temple of Heaven, founded in the 15th century. Then, head north to a village where the Great Wall of China is well preserved and walk along the wall for sweeping vistas. This mammoth fortress once stretched 4,000 miles across China’s barren northern terrain from the Bohai Sea to the Gobi Desert. Return to Beijing for some time at your leisure. (B,L)FREE TIME TIPS EXPLORE MORE You may wish to attend a performance of the Peking Opera, a traditional form of Chinese theater, or a kung fu show. This and more options throughout your tour are available for purchase with MyGlobus.GREAT-WALL.jpg
Day 4: Beijing-Xi’An
Location: Beijing
Accommodation Name: Crowne Plaza Xi'an
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
BEIJING-XI’AN Hutongs & Hot Noodles Take a [LF] rickshaw ride through one of Beijing’s hutongs, the city’s ancient alleys. Enjoy a local noodle lunch before a short flight brings you to Xi’an this afternoon. (B,L)LOCAL FAVORITEEPIC RIDE Travel by rickshaw through the ancient alleyways and courtyards of Beijing to take in the true culture of its hutongs and Siheyuan. Get an insight to the old lifestyle in these cultural icons of Chinese tradition.BEIJING-RICKSHAW.jpg
Day 5: Xi’An
Location: Xi'an
Accommodation Name: Crowne Plaza Xi'an
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
XI’AN Silent Sentinels Sightseeing begins with an enormous tomb of China’s first emperor, Qin Shi Huangdi, accidentally discovered by local farmers in 1974. Marvel at the legion of Terracotta Warriors that has been guarding this burial site for 2,000 years. Later, visit the Giant Wild Goose Pagoda, and Xi’an’s ancient City Wall, built in 1378. (B,L) FREE TIME TIPS EXPLORE MORE Tonight, consider a performance of the Tang Dynasty dinner show, featuring a colorful assemblage of classical performances. This and more options throughout your tour are available for purchase with MyGlobus.XIAN-TERRACOTTA-WARRIORS.jpg
Day 6: Xi’An-Chengdu
Location: Chengdu
Accommodation Name: Kempinski Hotel Chengdu
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
XI’AN-CHENGDU The Many Faces of Chengdu This morning, transfer to the train station for your high-speed train to Chengdu, capital of Sichuan province and known for its flavorful food. Visit Jinli Cultural Street, a pedestrian street lined with ancient buildings with the architectural stylings from the late Qing dynasty. Also see People’s Park, where you may see local residents playing mahjong or practicing tai chi. Tonight, enjoy a Sichuan hot pot dinner followed by a [LF] face-changing performance. (B,D)LOCAL FAVORITECULTURAL GEM Bian lian (face changing) is a traditional Chinese technique in which performers use masks to reflect mood changes of their character. An important aspect of Sichuan opera, the faces change faster than your eye can detect, using secrets passed down from generation to generation.XIAN-CALLIGRAPHY-CLASS.jpg
Day 7: Chengdu
Location: Chengdu
Accommodation Name: Kempinski Hotel Chengdu
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
CHENGDU Beauty in Black & White Journey through the mountainous scenery to the Wolong Giant Panda Nature Reserve, home to over 170 pandas. Learn how this area protects and rehabilitates these beautiful animals. This afternoon and evening at yours to explore this city more. (B,L)FREE TIME TIPSTIME & TRADITIONS Enjoy a free afternoon and evening in Chengdu. Your Tour Director will have expert advice on the best ways to relax and enjoy Chengdu this afternoon. Your GlobusGO mobile app has directions and recommendations as well!CHENGDU-PANDA.jpg
Day 8: Chengdu-Chongqing (Embarkation)-Yangtze River Cruise
Location: Chongqing
Accommodation Name: Victoria Sabrina
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
CHENGDU-CHONGQING (EMBARKATION)-YANGTZE RIVER CRUISE Gorgeous Gorges of the Yangtze Take the high-speed train to Chongqing, China’s capital during World War II. Upon arrival, enjoy lunch at a local restaurant and visit the Three Gorges Museum. Enjoy some free time in the Ciqikou ancient town, also known as Little Chongqing before boarding your ship for a 3-night cruise through the breathtaking Three Gorges of the Yangtze. (B,L,D)TOUR HIGHLIGHTNATURAL WONDERS Embark on an adventure on the Yangtze River along the most scenic section of this UNESCO World Heritage region of the Three Gorges. Breathtaking sights and legendary stories flow through the Qutang, Wu, and Xiling gorges gracing the middle reaches of this iconic river. CIQIKOU-XGTY.jpg
Day 9: Cruising: Mountain Shuanggui
Location: Mountain Shuanggui
Accommodation Name: Victoria Sabrina
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
CRUISING: MOUNTAIN SHUANGGUI Stories of the Song Dynasty Your shore excursion today takes you to Mountain Shuanggui, known for its picturesque scenery and featuring cliff brush writings dating to the Song dynasty. Return to your ship where the afternoon is at your leisure to enjoy a variety of onboard activities. This evening, your Captain hosts a welcome party and dinner. (B,L,D)FREE TIME TIPSEXPLORE MORE You may choose to take an optional shore excursion to Fengdu, known by many in China as the “Ghost City,” to visit the mountaintop shrines.FENGDU-SHRINE.jpg
Day 10: Cruising: Qutang Gorge-Wu Gorge-Goddess Stream
Location: Qutang Gorge
Accommodation Name: Victoria Sabrina
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
CRUISING: QUTANG GORGE-WU GORGE-GODDESS STREAM Narrow Escapes Early this morning, you may choose to start your day with a tai chi lesson on the sun deck or simply relax and enjoy the scenery. Later, sail downstream through the first and second of the three gorges – Qutang Gorge. After lunch, disembark for a boat excursion down Goddess Stream. Along the way, see picturesque scenery and mysterious hanging wooden coffins. (B,L,D)TOUR HIGHLIGHT SPECTACULAR SERENITY Sail through the shortest but most dramatic gorge, and Wu, known for its quiet beauty and forest covered mountains. You can nearly touch the perpendicular walls rising from the riverbanks as your Captain negotiates this narrow gap.YANGTZE-RIVER.jpg
Day 11: Cruising: (Disembarkation) Three Gorges Dam Site-Yichang-Hangzhou
Location: Yichang
Accommodation Name: Sofitel Hangzhou WestLake
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
This morning, visit the awe-inspiring hydroelectric marvel of Three Gorges Dam Site, the largest dam of its kind in the world. After lunch in Yichang, board your flight to Hangzhou, one of China’s seven ancient capitals.
Day 12: Hangzhou-Shanghai
Location: Hangzhou
Accommodation Name: Crowne Plaza Shanghai
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
HANGZHOU-SHANGHAI Timeless Traditions Start your tour of Hangzhou with a [LF] sampan cruise on West Lake, A UNESCO World Heritage Site. Then visit Linyin Temple, followed by a demonstration of the tea-making process and lunch at a local tea farm. This afternoon, settle in for a comfortable drive to Shanghai, China’s most populous city. (B,L)LOCAL FAVORITEEPIC RIDE Flanked by temples, gardens, pavilions, and causeways, West Lake has inspired many artists and scholars for centuries. Enjoy the morning sun glowing on the water as you cruise on a sampan, a traditional wooden boat.HANGZHOU-XGTY.jpg
Day 13: Shanghai
Location: Shanghai
Accommodation Name: Crowne Plaza Shanghai
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
SHANGHAI Dumplings & Dynasties This morning, stroll along the Bund, the city’s riverfront boulevard lined with historic buildings, banks, and trade houses. Then, visit Yu Yuan Gardens, dating back to the Ming Dynasty. This evening, your Tour Director hosts a special farewell dinner. (B,D)TOUR HIGHLIGHTCULTURE & TRADITION At dinner, get a taste of xiaolongbao, Shanghai’s most famous dish. These tasty soup dumplings are handmade with at least 18 intricate folds to close the top. The broth is the star, so eat lovingly!SHANGHAI-YU-YUAN-GARDENS.jpg
Day 14: Shanghai,Hong Kong
Location: Hong Kong
Accommodation Name: Harbour Grand Kowloon
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today, fly to Hong Kong, Asia’s vibrant commercial capital, where you will be met by a Globus representative. Please note: Your Tour Director does not accompany you to Hong Kong.
Day 15: Hong Kong
Location: Hong Kong
Accommodation Name: Harbour Grand Kowloon
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
HONG KONG Dim Sum & Then Some Sightseeing with your local guide begins with a ride on the popular Star Ferry from Kowloon Island to Hong Kong Island. (B,L)TOUR HIGHLIGHTTRADITIONS & TASTES Explore Hong Kong Island with a cable-car ride up Victoria Peak for panoramic views. Then, explore the old Sheung Wan neighborhood and visit the dried seafood market. Savor a dim sum lunch before traversing the Central District abroad the historic “Ding Ding” double decker tram.HONG-KONG-VICTORIA-PEAK.jpg
Day 16: Hong Kong
Location: Hong Kong
Accommodation Name: Harbour Grand Kowloon
Meals Included: Breakfast
HONG KONG At Your Own Pace Enjoy a full day at your leisure. (B)FREE TIME TIPSEXPLORE MORE View the Giant Buddha on Lantau Island or take a full-day outing to historic Macau.HONG-KONG-GIANT-BUDDAH.jpg
Day 17: Hong Kong
Location: Hong Kong
Meals Included: Breakfast
Your tour ends with breakfast this morning.
What's Included
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Accommodation
Stay at various hotels including Hotel New Otani Chang Fu Gong in Beijing, Crowne Plaza Xi'an, Kempinski Hotel Chengdu, Victoria Sabrina on the Yangtze River, Sofitel Hangzhou WestLake, Crowne Plaza Shanghai, and Harbour Grand Kowloon in Hong Kong.
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Meals
Daily breakfast, several lunches, and dinners including a special Peking duck welcome dinner and a Sichuan hot pot dinner.
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Sightseeing
Visits to Tian’anmen Square, Forbidden City, Summer Palace, Temple of Heaven, Great Wall of China, Terracotta Warriors, Giant Wild Goose Pagoda, and more.
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Transportation
High-speed train rides, flights within China, and a 3-night Yangtze River cruise.
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Local Experiences
Rickshaw ride through Beijing’s hutongs, a face-changing performance in Chengdu, and a sampan cruise on West Lake.
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Guided Tours
Guided tours in various cities including Beijing, Xi'an, Chengdu, Chongqing, Hangzhou, Shanghai, and Hong Kong.
What's Not Included
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International Flights
International flights to and from China are not included.
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Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included and is recommended to be purchased separately.
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Personal Expenses
Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional meals, and optional activities are not included.
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Visa Fees
Visa fees for entry into China and Hong Kong are not included.
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Optional Excursions
Optional excursions such as performances of the Peking Opera, kung fu shows, and visits to the Giant Buddha on Lantau Island or historic Macau are not included.
UNESCO Sites
Forbidden City|Temple of Heaven|Terracotta Warriors|West Lake
Accommodation
Beijing:Crowne Plaza Beijing Chaoyang U-TownXi'an:Crowne Plaza Xi'anChengdu:Kempinski Hotel ChengduYangtze River:Victoria SabrinaHangzhou:Sofitel Hangzhou WestLakeShanghai:Crowne Plaza ShanghaiHong Kong:InterContinental Grand Stanford Hong Kong
Notes
Alternate shore and small-boat excursions may be substituted based upon Yangtze River conditions.
Meals
16 Breakfasts, 11 Lunches, 6 Dinners
Check out our Q&As
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What kind of transportation is included in the tour?
The tour includes high-speed train rides, short flights within China, and a 3-night cruise through the breathtaking Three Gorges of the Yangtze River.
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What types of meals are provided during the tour?
The tour provides daily breakfast, several lunches, and dinners, including a special Peking duck welcome dinner and a Sichuan hot pot dinner.
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Are international flights included in the tour package?
No, international flights to and from China are not included in the tour package.
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What kind of accommodation can I expect on this tour?
You will stay at various hotels including Hotel New Otani Chang Fu Gong in Beijing, Crowne Plaza Xi'an, Kempinski Hotel Chengdu, Victoria Sabrina on the Yangtze River, Sofitel Hangzhou WestLake, Crowne Plaza Shanghai, and Harbour Grand Kowloon in Hong Kong.
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Are there any special local experiences included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes a rickshaw ride through Beijing's hutongs, a face-changing performance in Chengdu, and a sampan cruise on West Lake.
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What are some of the key sightseeing spots included in the tour?
The tour includes visits to Tian’anmen Square, the Forbidden City, the Summer Palace, the Temple of Heaven, the Great Wall of China, the Terracotta Warriors, the Giant Wild Goose Pagoda, and more.
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Is travel insurance included in the tour package?
No, travel insurance is not included and is recommended to be purchased separately.
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Are visa fees included in the tour package?
No, visa fees for entry into China and Hong Kong are not included in the tour package.
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What optional excursions are available during the tour?
Optional excursions include performances of the Peking Opera, kung fu shows, and visits to the Giant Buddha on Lantau Island or historic Macau.
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What activities are available during the Yangtze River cruise?
During the Yangtze River cruise, you can enjoy a variety of onboard activities, a tai chi lesson on the sun deck, and shore excursions to places like Mountain Shuanggui and Goddess Stream.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
For over 90 years.
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
Please contact us for latest Covid-19 policies
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What documents will I receive before I travel?
Travel documents, including any air tickets, itineraries, and other information, are available approximately two to three weeks prior to departure provided full payment has been received.
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
The Globus Lighthouse Project - an illuminating initiative where we can all come together to tread lightly and give generously for the globe's greater good. Globus, along with sister companies Avalon Waterways and Cosmos, invite our travellers and partners to help us in supporting causes that provide for a more sustainable planet and a brighter tomorrow.
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Up to 91 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
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