Day 1 London to Beijing, China.
Fly by scheduled business class flight to Beijing.
Day 2 Beijing & Gubei Water Town.
On arrival in Beijing we transfer to Gubei Water Town and check into Hang Gu Valley Hotel for a two night stay. Encircled by serene rivers and mountains, the resort area enjoys a village atmosphere. Meet your Tour Manager today and enjoy dinner at a local restaurant with your fellow travellers.
Day 3 Gubei Water Town.
After breakfast at our hotel, we visit the Simatai Great Wall, one of the most significant sections of China’s Great Wall. Our round trip to the site takes place aboard a cable car, enabling us to preserve our energy for exploration. The World Heritage Site retains the appearance it held when constructed during the Ming Dynasty in the 14th century. Spaced along the wall are 20 well-preserved watchtowers; the Wanjing Tower offers stunning views of the valley below. Returning to Gubei Water Town, we enjoy lunch and an afternoon at leisure. This evening’s gala Welcome Dinner takes place along a section of the Great Wall. As the sun fades from view, the wall is bathed in the glow of hundreds of lights. A succession of culinary delights, complemented by cocktails and wine, are then served in this spectacular setting. While we are here, our appreciation for the Great Wall is enhanced during a talk from the British geographer, William Lindesay OBE. In 1987, William set out on foot, completing a landmark journey of 2,470 kilometres along the wall – the first foreigner to do so. He has since dedicated himself to the study and preservation of the wall, leading to his moniker, ‘Guardian of the Great Wall’.
Day 4 Beijing.
Return to Beijing this morning and check into the Waldorf Astoria Beijing for a two night stay. Following lunch at a riverside restaurant, we visit the imposing Tiananmen Square. Among the largest of the world’s public squares, Tiananmen features several monuments, as well as the mausoleum housing the remains of Mao Zedong. Cross the square to arrive at the northern gate, which features a large portrait of Chairman Mao. Pass through an archway here to enter the Forbidden City. It was from here that China’s rulers wielded supreme power during the Ming and Qing dynasties. The style of the buildings here perfectly reflects traditional Chinese palatial architecture. Tonight, enjoy the French spin applied to an otherwise traditional Chinese menu at Duck de Chine. Indulge in the culinary offerings of this renowned restaurant, regularly frequented by world leaders.
Day 5 Beijing.
Board a rickshaw this morning for a tour along some of the city’s narrow laneways. Local knowledge means we will see aspects of the historic Shichahai area that most travellers will never encounter. While here, we also pay a visit to a local family living in one of Shichahai’s traditional homes. Our hosts guide us in a hands-on dumpling-making experience, before we all sit down to share a delicious meal. This authentic local experience also sees us learning the traditional Chinese folk arts of paper cutting and inside painting, as well as shuttlecock and yoyo. This afternoon, we meander through the park known as the Temple of Heaven. Gain a sense of local life here, appreciating the stark contrast of spiritual observance amid the buzzing activity. As we cast our gaze across the grounds, we may catch sight of people practicing tai chi, or otherwise engaged in singing or music. Soaring city views are enjoyed during this evening’s dinner. The glass ceiling and walls of the 66th-floor China Grill are spectacularly styled in pyramid fashion, while its decorative trees and water features enhance the setting.
Day 6 Xi’an.
Departing Beijing this morning we travel to Xi’an on the highspeed railway, travelling at speeds of up to 300 kilometres per hour. On arrival in Xi’an, enjoy time at leisure and discover the fascinating history and grand architecture of our heritage hotel, the Sofitel Legend Peoples Grand Hotel Xi’an where we will stay for two nights. Enjoy a choice of dining at one of the area’s local restaurants this evening. After dinner, perhaps visit the Great Tang All Day Mall, which comprises a vast collection of sculptures, shops, striking architecture, and elaborate light displays. Wander the pedestrian street, absorbing the intoxicating atmosphere, and soak up the rich cultural heritage on display through performances of music, dance and theatre.
Day 7 Xi’an.
After breakfast this morning, we make our pilgrimage to see the Terracotta Warriors. This famed collection of sculpted soldiers, 8,000 in number, accompanied by many horses and chariots, are said to have required the labour of 100,000 men over a period of 38 years. From our position along the perimeter of a colossal warehouse, we peer across at rows of these individually styled statues lined up in perfect formation. After lunch, we stand before the imposing city walls. The vast fortifications, almost 14 kilometres long, are surrounded by a deep moat. This evening, we are hosted by the renowned restaurant, Hu Pan. Its contemporary design complements cultural elements honouring the Tang Dynasty, which once ruled from Xi’an.
Day 8 Yinchuan.
Our private jet takes us north to Yinchuan this morning (flying time 1 hour) where we will stay overnight at the Amnor Resort. Situated between the Yellow River and the Helan Mountains, the region features the distinctively shaped Western Xia Imperial Tombs, built for the emperors of the Western Xia Dynasty. Explore the nine imperial tombs, set against a backdrop of rolling hills. This important cultural site also includes more than 250 smaller attendant tombs. The grandeur of this ancient dynasty is reflected in the large scale of the royal structures. We then take a tour of Chandon Winery, at the foot of the majestic Helan Mountains in nearby Ningxia. The rich history of the Chandon brand, as well as its establishment in China, is revealed at the state-of-the-art production facility. Take a stroll through the vineyard and learn about the blend of tradition and innovation taking place in the cultivation process here. Afterwards, enjoy a tasting session, prior to a gala dinner set amid the vines. Before a setting sun, enjoy local and international dishes, paired with some of Chandon’s exquisite wines.
Day 9 Yining & Sayram Lake.
Rejoin our private jet this morning for the westward flight to Yining (flying time 3 hours 35 minutes). From here, we take the road to Sayram Lake, in the province of Xinjiang. The vast Taklamakan Desert dominates the region, which is home to a number of ethnic groups, including Uyghur, Kazakhs, Tajiks, and Mongols. This region is known for its beautiful landscapes, set at the foot of the Tianshan Mountains. Arriving along the shores of Sayram Lake, we are presented with an idyllic setting, where vast carpets of wildflowers decorate the alpine landscape. We will stay overnight at Shui Yun Shan Hotel and as night approaches, we enjoy a lakeside dinner, with multiple courses of flavourful dishes.
Day 10 Kashgar.
Further south, along China’s western border, our private jet brings us to the ancient city of Kashgar (flying time 1 hour) where we will stay two nights at the UrCove Kashgar Ancient City hotel. Here, the yellow facade of Id Kah Mosque draws our attention. The mosque is situated within a serene courtyard, surrounded by several poplars, mulberries and elms. Take the remainder of the afternoon at leisure or undertake some independent exploration. Perhaps wander along some of the city’s winding streets, where caravans of the Silk Roads once travelled. Here, mudbrick houses, courtyards and markets occupy various corners of the Old City. Choose where you would like to dine this evening from a selection of the city’s finest restaurants.
Day 11 Kashgar.
Waking in Kashgar this morning means we have plenty of time to spend at the Sunday Grand Bazaar. Wander the aisles of this historic marketplace, where stalls stocked with spices, bread, and other delicacies reveal the culinary heritage of the region. As you browse the assorted wares on offer, you might also try to discern some of the many dialects spoken by traders and shoppers in this cultural melting pot. Enjoy the afternoon at leisure before we meet this evening for dinner at our hotel.
Day 12 Urumqi & Chengdu.
After breakfast, we transfer to the airport for our private jet flight to the city of Urumqi (flying time 1 hour 30 minutes). The Xinjiang Regional Museum displays a wealth of artefacts, notably its Exhibition of Ancient Mummies. Other cultural relics provide further insight into the diverse tapestry of the region, historically linked to the Silk Roads. Following our visit, we return to our private jet for our onward flight to Chengdu (flying time 3 hours 30 minutes). The megacity welcomes us back to the country’s east, where we have the option to relax this afternoon at our accommodation, The Temple House where we will stay for two nights. Our hotel’s Michelin-starred restaurant, Mi Xun, hosts us for dinner. After dinner we continue to the Shufeng Yayun Sichuan Opera House for an evening of mesmerising costumes, dramatic performances and skilful mask changing.
Day 13 Chengdu.
This morning we have a choice of touring possibilities. Maybe get up close to China’s iconic wildlife species today at the Dujiangyan Panda Base. While here, learn about conservation challenges and the importance of preserving regional biodiversity. Then venture to the Dujiangyan Irrigation System, an engineering marvel built to prevent the flooding which once devastated the region. The vast project also safeguards the area against drought, harnessing the might of the Min River, and distributing its waters across the Chengdu Plain in a controlled manner. The brainchild of hydraulic engineer Li Bing, the apparatus is responsible for nourishing the land and has contributed greatly to Sichuan’s prosperity. Alternatively, pay a visit to a local community centre. See how these hubs of recreation and essential services contribute to the wellbeing of citizens and the overall cohesion of the wider community. Then head to the vibrant People’s Park of Chengdu. Observe the slow, graceful movements of Tai Chi practitioners; admire the bonsai trees and wander pathways across the park’s expansive, verdant grounds; then relax alongside the tranquil lake while enjoying the offerings of Heming Tea House. Later, join a discovery of Kuanzhai Xiangzi, which translates to ‘Wide and Narrow Alley’. This network of restaurants, teahouses and souvenir stores also showcases local arts, crafts and customs, granting us an inside look into the lives of Chengdu’s residents. Our day culminates with an authentic Sichuan hot pot dinner.
Day 14 Guilin & Yangshuo.
Enjoy a final breakfast at The Temple House before we are transferred to the airport for our next private jet flight (flying time 1 hour 20 minutes). Touching down in Guilin, we are then transported by road to Yangshuo, a tranquil riverside city set among soaring karst mountains. Over the next two nights, we enjoy the hospitality of Banyan Tree Yangshuo, a stunning resort whose villas encircle the property’s large pond. We spend the afternoon relaxing and admiring the verdant grounds of our resort. Perhaps collect a bicycle for an afternoon ride past rice fields and winding rivers. Prior to this evening’s dinner, we enjoy the Grand Song of the Dong ethnic group. The song comprises a melody sung in unison by several folk singers, without musical accompaniment. At Banyan Tree’s Pool Bar, we then dine amid the flourishing greenery of our residence.
Day 15 Guilin.
After breakfast, embark a river boat for a spectacular cruise of the Li River. Glide past towering karst mountains dotting the shoreline and catch sight of the fishing boats of local villagers. Relax along the observation deck, taking in the magical scenes of mountain peaks shrouded in mist. Enjoy lunch on board before disembarking and taking the afternoon at leisure. Choose to relax back at our resort, or else take your pick of walking or cycling adventures along the banks of the Yangshuo River. This evening’s dining takes place under the stars, within the rice field of a nearby village.
Day 16 Shanghai.
Check out and transfer to the airport to meet with our private jet for the final time for our flight to Shanghai (flying time 2 hours 20 minutes). Upon arrival, we make ourselves comfortable in the Waldorf Astoria Shanghai on the Bund where we will be based for three nights. Enjoy the afternoon as you choose, relax at the hotel, head out on independent explorations, or join a tour to some of the sights of Shanghai. Close to the hotel, we wander the grounds of the Yu Garden. This place of tranquillity in the heart of Shanghai first took shape 400 years ago. Its serene ponds, zigzagging bridges, and ornate pagodas provide a relaxing atmosphere in which to acclimatise to our new surroundings. From here, we head to the nearby Old Bazaar, where sizzling street food takes its place alongside an abundance of antiques, handicrafts, and assorted bargains. Dine at your choice of resturant this evening, from a selection of Shanghai’s most renowned.
Day 17 Shanghai.
On our first full day in Shanghai you can choose to join an architecture tour that reveals the staggering structures making up the Shanghai skyline. Learn about the development of the Bund waterfront area before heading to Shanghai Tower, China’s tallest building. Gaze across the city from the observatory on the 118th floor and discover the architectural distinctions of Shanghai’s ‘Three Giants’. Alternatively, browse the art galleries, studios, shops, and bars of Tianzifang, Shanghai’s art district. Here, buildings designed in the traditional Shikumen style, or ‘Stone Warehouse Gate’, today house the wares of a more contemporary Shanghai.
Day 18 Shanghai.
See another side to Shanghai during a visit to South Bund Soft Spinning Material Market. Here, a treasure trove of striking silks, including traditional Xiangyunsha, have been fashioned into an array of elegant qipao (traditional Chinese dress). The opportunity to purchase custom suits, dresses and myriad accessories ensure the fashion conscious will be well-catered for. Or maybe take a trip to Zhujiajiao Water Town. The best-preserved of Shanghai’s four ancient towns, Zhujiajiao is connected by ancient stone and wooden bridges that span narrow canals lined with traditional passenger boats. Our Farewell Dinner tonight takes place at YongFoo Elite, which boasts two Michelin stars. The restaurant’s two-storey Spanish-style villa formerly housed the consulates of the Soviet Union, Vietnam, Germany, and Britain. We indulge in a curated menu, paired with fine wines and teas amidst the refined atmosphere, graced with glowing lanterns and fragrant flowers.
Day 19 Shanghai to London.
Check out this morning and transfer to the airport for our scheduled business class flights to London. Arrive today.
