China Holidays
Beijing, Xian, Pandas in Chengdu, Yunnan Province & Hong Kong
14 Night Itinerary from £5,244
Panda Family Tour
Your children will love China, visiting the ancient history of Beijing, Xi'an's Terracotta Warriors, the pandas at Chengdu, ethnic minorities and Tiger Leaping Gorge in Yunnan Province and city life in Hong Kong.
Select your Preferred Departure Date OR Default to Today's Date
Tour Route
- Beijing & Great Wall - 3 Nights
- Xi'an & the Terracotta Army - 2 Nights
- Chengdu & Leshan Buddha - 2 Nights
- Yunnan Province - 4 Nights
- Hong Kong - 3 Nights
Travel Highlights
- Our specially designed family tour to China, visiting its most iconic sights
- Family-friendly guides
- Start in the capital city of Beijing, exploring the historic Forbidden City
- Take a day trip to trek along the Great Wall of China
- Come face-to-face with the Terracotta Army and understand the history of the Silk Road
- Get up close to Chengdu's Pandas
- Be welcomed in scenic Yunnan Province by the friendly local ethnic minority people
- Finish in exotic Hong Kong, visiting local markets and tranquil island beaches
This itinerary can be tailored to your preferences by our specialist advisors, who can provide a guaranteed price based on your choice of route, duration, flights, hotels, transport and excursions.
Tour Itinerary
Beijing & Great Wall - 3 Nights
Day 1 - Fly to Beijing
Day 2 - Welcome to Beijing
Day 3 - Temple of Heaven, Hutongs & Forbidden City Tour
Day 4 - Experience the Great Wall of China
- Full Description
- Accommodation
Friday, 19 April 2024
Fly to Beijing
Depart on a direct overnight flight from London to Beijing, or via an alternative route at one of the major regional airports in the UK if you prefer.
Saturday, 20 April 2024
Welcome to Beijing
Arrive in Beijing in the morning and be welcomed on arrival for transfer to your hotel for a 4 night stay. You will receive a walking orientation tour around your hotel with our guide, familiarising you with the surroundings and answering any questions you may have and ensure all your family needs are taken care of. The rest of the day is at leisure to relax.
Sunday, 21 April 2024
Temple of Heaven, Hutongs & Forbidden City Tour
We start early to visit the Temple of Heaven located in a delightful park. The Temple of Heaven, considered by UNESCO "a masterpiece of architecture and landscape design", was created as a place of learning about Chinese philosophical beliefs, cosmogony, art, dynastic politics and sacrificial rituals. In the park, you will gain insights into local life, as groups of elderly Beijing residents gather to take communal exercises, sing, socialise and play musical instruments. We continue to the Hutong district, where we explore the ancient narrow streets by foot and rickshaw and enjoy an included lunch at a family hutong home. In the afternoon, we visit Tiananmen Square and explore the mythical and vast Forbidden City, home to 24 Chinese Emperors. Here you can learn about China's dynastic past.
Monday, 22 April 2024
Experience the Great Wall of China
Today we visit one of the wonders of the world, the Great Wall of China. We travel for 2 hours out of Beijing to a remote section of the wall where in the footsteps of soldiers from the Ming Dynasty, we hike a wild section away from the crowds. It is a unique experience where you will truly appreciate the full majesty of the Great Wall and savour stunning views of the surrounding mountains. We also visit the restored part of the wall at Mutianyu, allowing you a look at the Wall in its original state. Lunch is included.
Penta Hotel
Beijing & Great Wall - First Hotel
Described as a "neighbourhood lifestyle hotel", the Penta is a distinctive 4 star contemporary hotel, close to the Temple of Heaven and a short walk from the subway. The laid-back hotel offers 307 ensuite rooms in a minimalist style, including family rooms, as well as the use of bikes and maps to explore the local area. The heart of the hotel is the bustling Pentalounge; an all-encompassing café, deli, noodle bar, library and games area that provides a meeting place where guests and locals come and go.
Hotel Cote Cour
Beijing & Great Wall - First Boutique
The Cote Cour is a renowned boutique hotel spread out around a traditional inner courtyard and nestled in one of the historic centuries-old Hutongs. Fully refurbished in 2016, the rooms and communal areas are decorated to a high standard with classic paintings, furnishings and details, evoking a deep connection with the long history of the structures. You will find all the modern amenities that you will need during your stay, as well as an attentive service, free internet access and bicycle hire.
Guests can relax on the rooftop space and perhaps choose to dine in the a la carte restaurant. For families, there is both a standard and deluxe family room on offer.
Xi'an & the Terracotta Army - 2 Nights
Day 5 - Bullet Train to Xi'an
Day 6 - The Terracotta Army
- Full Description
- Accommodation
Tuesday, 23 April 2024
Bullet Train to Xi'an
Today you will be transported to Beijing West station for high speed Bullet Train to the ancient city of Xi'an, a journey of around four and a half hours. On arrival you will be met by your guide and transferred to your chosen hotel for a 3 night stay. Time at leisure in the afternoon. Once the starting point of the legendary Silk Road and a capital for eleven dynasties, Xi'an has retained a great deal of its mystique and boasts an impressive array of sights, which we will explore over the next two days.
Wednesday, 24 April 2024
The Terracotta Army
We begin today with a visit to the famous Terracotta Army, just outside Xi'an. 8,000 individually sculptured clay warriors, horses and archers proudly stand shoulder-to-shoulder in three large excavated pits, protecting the tomb of China's first emperor, Qin Shihuang. At first it is the sheer number that overwhelms, but on closer inspection you begin to notice the extraordinary level of detail, with each figure seemingly sporting a different expression and hairstyle. It's not hard to imagine this as a real army in waiting, awakening at the slightest hint of danger. Afterwards we can visit the home of the farmer who accidentally discovered the Terracotta Army.
After an included lunch, we will visit the home of the farmer who accidentally discovered the Terracotta Army and also attend a clay workshop, where you will have the opportunity to create your very own Terracotta Warrior figures! From here we return to the city to enjoy a cycle ride around the ancient city walls and have a walk around the vibrant Muslim Quarter. There will be time to visit a mosque and perhaps sample some of the delicacies of the street food market.
Mercure on Renmin Square
Xian & Terracotta Army - First Hotel
The Mercure hotel has become a fixture of Renmin Square, alongside landscaped gardens and historic buildings. With over 100 well-equipped and tastefully decorated rooms and suites and a wonderful location right in the heart of ancient Xi'an, this 4 star hotel is a popular choice amongst visitors. It is a 15 minute walk from the bustling markets of the Muslim Quarter and the Drum and Bell Towers.
The hotels own restaurant, serving Western, Chinese, Japanese and Moroccan dishes, as well as a café and bar is perfect for relaxing after a long day exploring the city.
Chengdu & Leshan Buddha - 2 Nights
Day 7 - Bullet Train to Chengdu
Day 8 - Pandas and Dujiangyan Irrigation System
- Full Description
- Accommodation
Thursday, 25 April 2024
Bullet Train to Chengdu
Today take the high speed Bullet Train to Chengdu, where you will be met upon arrival by your guide for the next few days and transferred to your hotel for a 3 night stay. You'll have today at leisure, perhaps to relax in the large People's Square, taking tea at one of the large outside teahouses and observing local life here. South of the river is the lively Jinli Street, lined with traditional buildings and shops and stalls selling locally created artwork, handicrafts, paper cuts and calligraphy. This is a great place to spend the afternoon shopping for gifts and souvenirs. Further optional opportunity for the children (and adults) to have an optional mandarin speaking class with a local teacher.
Friday, 26 April 2024
Pandas and Dujiangyan Irrigation System
No visit to Chengdu would be complete without going to the nearby Panda Research Base - simply the best place to see these charming and highly endangered animals up close. Designed to replicate the natural bamboo habitat of the panda to encourage breeding, the centre is respected the world over for its ongoing research and conservation efforts, not just for the giant pandas, but also for red pandas and black swans. We visit early in the morning to see the baby pandas at their most active, returning to the city for midday.
After an included lunch, we continue on to the Dujiangyan Irrigation System. This extraordinary UNESCO World Heritage site was originally constructed back in 256BC, during the Qin Dynasty. It is the oldest irrigation system in the world and is thought to be the only major system of its kind not to feature a dam. Another major feat of engineering is the magnificent Anlan Suspension Bridge which crosses the river. Surrounding the irrigation system are a number of impressive temples, halls, towers, statues and gardens.
Buddha Zen
Chengdu & Pandas - First Hotel
Located close to the Wenshu Yuan Monastery, this spiritually themed 4 star hotel aims to give visitors an insight into traditional Buddhist life. It offers 35 tranquil rooms and well-equipped rooms, all thoughtfully decorated in an elegant style true to the spirit of the hotel. The courtyard-style building is filled with ancient paintings and statues each with small details that are full of hidden meaning.
The Buddha Zen also invites guests to take a traditional 'Zen' afternoon tea in the Jian Cha Teahouse and unwind in the harmonious Zi Zai spa, havens of peace and tranquillity in one of China's biggest cities.
Yunnan Province - 4 Nights
Day 9 - Fly to Shangri-La
Day 10 - Shangri-La & local Tibetan Monastery
Day 11 - Tiger Leaping Gorge & Lijiang
Day 12 - Explore Lijiang
- Full Description
- Accommodation
Saturday, 27 April 2024
Fly to Shangri-La
Transfer to the airport and fly to Shangri-La. On arrival, transfer to your chosen hotel for a 2-night stay including breakfast.
Sunday, 28 April 2024
Guided tour of Shangri-La and Ganden Sumtsenling Monastery
Enjoy a guided tour of Shangri-La visiting the old town and the nearby Ganden Sumtsenling Monastery. This part of Yunnan Province is known as Little Tibet, as the area is largely Buddhist. The monastery is the largest Tibetan Buddhist monastery in Yunnan Province, and a joy to visit. It reminds one of the Potala Palace in Lhasa.
Monday, 29 April 2024
Drive to Lijiang via Tiger Leaping Gorge
We leave Shangri-La this morning and take a scenic drive to the famous Tiger Leaping Gorge. On the way, we stop at a local farmer and witness the rural lifestyle of these friendly people, where their houses have the live quarters on the first and second floors, and their livestock on the ground floor.
Tiger Leaping Gorge is one of life's special travel experiences. After a long walk down many steps you will come to the viewing area, where you can observe the mighty force of the river cascading through a narrow gorge. Legend has it that a tiger with special powers was once able to jump across the river.
We continue to Lijiang, perhaps the prettiest city in the whole of China. The ancient old town is a series of small alleyways, truncated with small streams. The red lanterns give the city a romantic feel. It is a little touristy, but set against the backdrop of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, you will not fail to be enchanted. There are many small shops selling lovely arts and crafts from the local Nakhi people.
Check-in to your chosen hotel for a 2-night stay including breakfast.
Tuesday, 30 April 2024
Explore Lijiang
There is much to enjoy in Lijiang, from simply browsing the many small shops, relaxing in a tea house or taking a guided tour meeting local Nakhi people. It is also possible to trek in the foothills of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, with wonderful views.
Zen Garden Lion Mountain Yard
Lijiang - First Hotel
Located in the heart of the Lijiang Old Town, a 20 minute walk from the picturesque Black Dragon Pool, this traditional hotel is bursting with Chinese character. The peaceful streams, koi pond and orchids of the quiet gardens, the natural stone and wood construction of the hotel and the lavish traditional decor, created by a collector of art and crafts, give the Zen Garden a permanent air of tranquillity and old world charm.
Each room comes well-equipped with modern facilities and provides garden-facing balconies and seats in which to enjoy the relaxed surrounds and evening sunshine. A traditional teahouse offers the chance to enjoy the finest blends of local tea whilst you browse the books in the library, listen to Chinese music or learn the art of calligraphy. Friendly local Naxi staff ensure your stay is as enjoyable and comfortable as possible, whilst local produce is teamed with western dishes to create a varied choice for breakfast.
Amandayan
Lijiang - Luxury Hotel
Set atop Lion Hill above the winding lanes and canals of Lijiang’s Unesco-protected Old Town, Amandayan is a serene retreat from which to explore Yunnan’s natural and cultural heritage. Claiming panoramic views, the resort and its tranquil spa are housed in elegant wooden dwellings inspired by Nakhi architecture, with Jade Dragon Snow Mountain ever-present on the horizon.
Graceful and elegant with clean simple lines, Amandayan’s 35 Suites and Villas are contemporary in style yet still unmistakably Chinese. Decorated with materials and fabrics from the region, including Yunnan pine and Dong Bei elm, every Suite opens onto a shared courtyard or a terrace. Choose from a 2-bedroom villa or deluxe (with balcony) or courtyard suites (overlooking the courtyard). Each suite has king size beds, living space and private bathroom.
The resort has four separate restaurants: Man Yi Xuan offers Yunnan cuisine for lunch and dinner; The Restaurant serves Western and Asian dishes; The Tea House
Offers delicate dim sum and traditional Chinese and Western tea sets with savouries, cakes and pastries overlooking Old Town in the two-storey Tea House; and the Lounge is a welcoming venue in which to relax over breakfast, afternoon tea or a light meal.
Public areas include a swimming pool and spa. The spa is a sanctuary within the hilltop haven that is Amandayan, offering extensive hydrotherapy, yoga, meditation, and fitness facilities as well as serene treatment rooms.
The rates include breakfast, airport transfers, in room refreshments and daily scheduled cultural activities exploring Lijiang and the surrounding area with expert local guides.
Hong Kong - 3 Nights
Day 13 - Fly to Hong Kong
Day 14 - Special 'local life' Hong Kong tour
Day 15 - At leisure or optional excursions
Day 16 - At leisure & fly back to the UK
Day 17 - Arrive in the UK
- Full Description
- Accommodation
Wednesday, 01 May 2024
Fly to Hong Kong
Fly from Chengdu to Hong Kong, where you will be met on arrival for a private transfer into the city to your chosen hotel for a 3 night stay. Hong Kong offers a great mix of exoticism and familiarity. It is easy for western travellers to get around it, travelling on the efficient MTR underground system, which reaches as far as some of the outlying islands. You will enjoy a day at leisure to perhaps take the iconic Star Ferry across the water to Hong Kong Island. Here you can ride the tram to Victoria Peak, for one of the world's great urban vistas, especially as the sun goes down and the light's begin to twinkle at dusk.
Thursday, 02 May 2024
Special 'local life' Hong Kong tour
We start in the thriving markets of Mong Kok; the bird market, where locals often gather to socialise with their birds sat next to them in cages, then the goldfish market to admire the amazing colour and detail of the tropical fish on sale here, often at extremely high prices. Next is the Chinese Jade Market and the fruit market, followed by a visit to the Tin Hau Temple, dedicated to the Goddess of the Sea, revered by fishermen and those who spend their working lives at sea.
We then drive to the south of Hong Kong Island to the Aberdeen fishermen community, where fishing junks are juxtaposed against the skyscrapers. We take a short sampan boat ride to learn more about their ways of life and enjoy an included dim sum lunch aboard the famous Aberdeen Jumbo Kingdom. Next up is the Central business district and the world's longest continuous escalator system. Hollywood Road in westernised district of Soho is next, known for its antique shops. Finally, we finish at the Man Mo Temple, one of Hong Kong's oldest and most important and where giant incense coils hang from the ceiling, imparting a fragrant, smoky haze. The temple is dedicated to the God of Literature and the God of War.
Friday, 03 May 2024
At leisure in Hong Kong or optional excursions
Today is free to explore Hong Kong at your own pace. Or take an optional excursion, perhaps taking the ferry across the water to Macau, a bastion of Portuguese heritage, is an excellent day trip, as is a visit to the tropical and tranquil Lamma Island, reached by boat from Aberdeen fishing harbour in the south. Closer yet is Lantau Island, famed for its large seated Buddha and temple, reached by a panoramic cable car. At the far end of the island, Tai O is an immensely charming and timeless fishing village, whilst one of the region's best beaches can be enjoyed a short bus ride away at Cheung Sha.
Saturday, 04 May 2024
Return flight to UK
You will most likely be flying back in the evening and so will have ample time for last minute shopping, relaxing or sightseeing. You will be transferred to the airport for your overnight return flight.
Sunday, 05 May 2024
Arrive in the UK
Royal Plaza Hotel
Hong Kong & Macau - Deluxe Hotel
Perfect for families and couples alike, the Royal Plaza is centrally located in Kowloon, close to markets and MTR stations. 599 spacious modern rooms come with separate bathtubs and rain showers as well as a range of modern facilities, in addition to a 40 metre outdoor swimming pool, a sauna and jacuzzi. There are over 100 connecting rooms for groups travelling together and several family rooms. A range of dining options are available serving international and contemporary Chinese cuisine.
Price Guidelines
| Season | Low Season | High Season |
|---|---|---|
| Travel Dates | Year round | Year round |
| Room Arrangement | First | Deluxe |
| Multiple Travellers - Twin Room | £5,244 | £6,921 |
Prices are a guideline and per person. Please request a quote for Special Events, Christmas, New Year's Eve & Easter.
What's Included
- 17 days/14 nights
- International return flights (2 overnight)
- Internal flights as shown
- 2nd class Bullet Train tickets as described on itinerary
- 14 nights accommodation including breakfast
- Meals as described on the itinerary
- Transfers to and from airports
- Excursions listed, all with expert, English-speaking guides and private vehicle
- Prices are per person based on four people sharing two rooms
- Guideline price only - please request a bespoke itinerary for an accurate quote
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