16-Day China Tour Packages from UK with Yangtze River Cruise and Cultural Treasures

Summary

Day1 UK to Shanghai
Day2 Shanghai Arrival
Day3 Shanghai: Yuyuan Garden, the French Concession, Tianzifang, Xintiandi, the Bund, Nanjing Road
Day4 Shanghai-Yichang: Take a flight to Yichang, Binjiang Park, Yichang Museum
Day5 Yangtze River: Three Gorges Dam, Xiling Gorge
Day6 Yangtze River: Lesser Three Gorges, Wu Gorge, Qu Tang Gorge, White Emperor City
Day7 Yangtze River: Fengdu
Day8 Yangtze River-Chengdu: People's Park, Wide and Narrow Alleys
Day9 Chengdu: Leshan, Jinli Ancient Street
Day10 Chengdu-Xi'an: Chengdu Panda Breeding and Research Centre, board the bullet train to Xian
Day11 Xi'an: Terracotta Warriors, Wild Goose Pagoda, Muslim Quarter
Day12 Xi'an-Beijing: City Wall, board the bullet train to Beijing
Day13 Beijing: Tiananmen Square, Forbidden City
Day14 Beijing: Juyongguan part of the Great Wall, Chinese acrobatics performance
Day15 Beijing: Temple of Heaven, Summer Palace, Free time
Day16 Beijing to UK: Take a flight to UK

Day1 UK to Shanghai

Begin your journey from the UK to Shanghai with a direct international flight, typically departing from major hubs like London Heathrow or Manchester. Most flights take around 11–12 hours and arrive the following day due to the time difference. As you soar eastward across Europe and Central Asia, you’ll be crossing both geography and cultures—transitioning from the British Isles to the heart of China. Settle in, enjoy onboard meals (often with both Western and Asian options), and prepare for an exciting adventure ahead.

Day2 Shanghai Arrival

Our driver will be waiting for you at the airport arrival hall, holding a clear "Your Way Holiday" sign for a smooth and personal welcome. From there, you’ll be privately transferred to your hotel in Shanghai. Sit back and relax as your journey begins — no need to worry about navigation or language barriers. Your guide will be ready to assist with hotel check-in, offer local dining recommendations, and share tips to help you feel at ease on your first evening in China.

Day3 Shanghai

Begin your day with a visit to Yuyuan Garden, a living masterpiece of classical Chinese garden design nestled in the heart of Shanghai’s Old City. Originally built in the 16th century during the Ming Dynasty by a government official for his parents’ enjoyment, Yuyuan is a harmonious blend of art, architecture, and nature. Step through elaborately decorated archways and into a world of koi-filled ponds, jade-colored tiles, and centuries-old cypress trees. Your guide will help you understand the deep symbolism embedded in each detail — from the “dragon wall” that guards the garden to the zigzag bridges that are said to protect against evil spirits. As you stroll beneath carved lattice windows and along curved walkways, you’ll learn how this tranquil space has survived war, revolution, and urban expansion. Just outside the garden, the Yuyuan Bazaar buzzes with energy. Your guide can help you explore this colorful market, offering tips on tasting authentic xiaolongbao (soup dumplings), finding handcrafted trinkets, or engaging in polite bargaining — all part of traveling like a local.

Next, immerse yourself in the charm of the French Concession, where leafy streets and elegant 20th-century mansions offer a striking contrast to the older neighborhoods. Once under French administration, this area remains one of Shanghai’s most distinctive and desirable districts. With your guide leading the way, you’ll explore quiet alleyways that were once home to revolutionaries, scholars, and artists. Your guide will point out hidden architectural details — like Art Deco balconies or ironwork fences — while recounting stories of political meetings held behind unassuming doors. These aren’t just facts, but threads of a larger narrative about a city that absorbed Western influences without losing its soul. You might pause at a local café tucked into a historic villa for a coffee, just as locals do, while your guide shares how this area continues to shape Shanghai’s identity as a cultural and creative hub. By walking in the footsteps of both poets and diplomats, you’ll experience the layers of history that make this neighborhood unforgettable.

Continue your journey through culture and creativity at Tianzifang, a revitalized arts district hidden within a labyrinth of traditional Shikumen alley houses. This once-ordinary residential block has been transformed into one of Shanghai’s most beloved cultural enclaves, where every corner tells a story. With your guide, you’ll weave through passageways lined with quirky galleries, independent craft shops, and cafés pulsing with personality. Unlike larger commercial centers, Tianzifang retains an authentic charm — preserved brick walls, hanging laundry, and residents who still call it home. Your guide will introduce you to lesser-known local gems: perhaps a printmaker’s tucked-away studio, or a tea merchant who blends their own recipes. You’ll hear how artists and preservationists worked together to save this space from redevelopment, turning it into a symbol of Shanghai’s creative resilience. This is where “travel like a local” comes to life — discovering culture not from a brochure, but through living, breathing neighborhoods guided by those who know them best.

Continue to Xintiandi, a dynamic district where Shanghai’s traditional Shikumen architecture has been artfully reimagined into a modern lifestyle destination. As you walk along cobblestone lanes surrounded by restored grey-brick buildings, your guide will explain how these former residential blocks were transformed without losing their historic charm. This area isn’t just about fashionable boutiques and elegant restaurants — it’s a key chapter in China’s political history. Your guide will point out the building where the First National Congress of the Chinese Communist Party was secretly held in 1921, a modest site with immense significance. You'll hear how revolutionaries once gathered in these very alleyways, planting the seeds for China’s transformation. To balance the history with the present, your guide may lead you to a tranquil courtyard café tucked away from the main crowds, a spot where locals relax with a pot of tea — giving you a taste of how the past and present coexist in everyday Shanghai.

As evening approaches, your journey continues along the Bund, Shanghai’s most iconic waterfront promenade. On one side, the stately facades of early 20th-century buildings reflect the city’s colonial-era ambitions, while across the Huangpu River, the glass skyscrapers of Pudong soar into the sky, symbols of China’s rapid modernization. This dramatic juxtaposition makes the Bund a favorite spot for both photographers and history enthusiasts. Your guide will bring these structures to life — pointing out the former customs house with its towering clock, the Peace Hotel’s Art Deco flair, and the old British consulate, each representing a different era and influence. They'll also share how this area transitioned from foreign banking hub to a centerpiece of national pride, reshaping its identity along with Shanghai itself. Whether you're walking the promenade or pausing to take in the view, this moment captures the spirit of the city — complex, evolving, and deeply interconnected with the world.

Cap off the day with a stroll through the bustling lights of Nanjing Road, one of the most famous shopping streets in all of China. With your guide at your side, you’ll go beyond the glitter of department stores and luxury brands to uncover the street’s layered history. Once dubbed "China's No. 1 commercial street," Nanjing Road has witnessed everything from parades and protests to cinema openings and fashion revolutions. Your guide might point out one of the historic shops that have served generations of Shanghainese families or lead you to a tucked-away vendor selling nostalgic sweets and local snacks. As you take in the blend of old-style signage and futuristic LED displays, you’ll feel the pulse of a city constantly on the move. This isn’t just a shopping stop — it’s a window into the everyday rhythms of Shanghai life. By the end of the night, you’ll have seen the city from multiple angles, always with a deeper story woven in by your local guide.

After a full day exploring the layers of Shanghai’s culture, history, and modern lifestyle, your guide will accompany you back to your hotel in the comfort of your private vehicle. Along the way, they’ll check in with you about your day, answer any lingering questions, and offer suggestions for your evening — whether it’s a quiet local noodle shop nearby or a peaceful park for a nighttime stroll. This thoughtful end to your day reflects our vision of deep, local travel: not just seeing the city, but understanding it, with a guide who’s there every step of the way.

Day4 Shanghai-Yichang

Begin your day with a smooth transfer to the airport to Yichang — your next destination and the gateway to the Yangtze River. Upon arrival in this riverside city, you'll be greeted and taken straight into a slice of local life with a visit to Binjiang Park. Unlike touristy attractions, this park is a favorite among residents, especially during mornings and early evenings. As you stroll along the peaceful Yangtze River promenade, your guide will point out daily scenes of tai chi practice, elderly couples dancing to nostalgic tunes, and locals playing Chinese chess under shady trees. This isn’t just a walk — it’s a glimpse into the rhythms of everyday Yichang, where life moves in harmony with the river. Your guide might even help you strike up a friendly chat with a local, adding warmth to your visit.

Later, delve into the rich regional history with a stop at the Yichang Museum. With a collection that spans millennia, this museum offers a curated journey through ancient artifacts, folk customs, and the engineering marvels that define this part of China. Your guide will focus your attention on standout exhibits — from Neolithic pottery to relics unearthed near the Three Gorges — and explain how Yichang’s strategic location shaped its culture, trade, and identity. Far beyond just reading labels, you’ll gain context and interpretation that bring the displays to life. Whether you're curious about early Chu culture or the modern feats of dam construction, your guide is there to connect the dots, ensuring your museum visit is both educational and engaging. As the day winds down, you’ll begin to sense the transition from urban exploration to the deeper river journey awaiting you.

Day5 Yangtze River

Start your day with a visit to the Three Gorges Dam, one of the world’s largest and most impressive engineering feats. This monumental structure controls the mighty Yangtze River, balancing flood control, hydroelectric power, and navigation. As you approach the dam, your guide will explain its complex history—from the ambitious planning stages to the profound impact on local communities and the environment. You’ll explore observation decks offering panoramic views of the vast reservoir and the cascading spillways. Your guide’s insights will deepen your understanding of how this modern marvel fits into China’s broader development story, illustrating the blend of human ingenuity and natural power that defines the Yangtze region. Far from a mere sightseeing stop, the visit is an opportunity to engage with the social and ecological questions surrounding large-scale infrastructure, all framed through expert commentary.

Later, your journey continues into the heart of Xiling Gorge, the longest and most dramatic of the Yangtze’s famed Three Gorges. Known for its steep cliffs, misty peaks, and swirling waters, Xiling Gorge reveals the raw, untamed beauty of the river valley. Your guide will point out the unique geological formations and share legends tied to this ancient landscape, from tales of river dragons to historic battles fought along its banks. Cruising through this natural corridor, you’ll witness how the gorge’s shifting light and changing seasons transform its character — a spectacle best appreciated with a local expert’s narration. Beyond scenic appreciation, your guide will highlight the ongoing efforts to preserve the delicate ecology of the area while balancing the demands of tourism and shipping. This immersive experience offers a profound connection to the river’s spirit, far beyond what typical tours provide.

Day6 Yangtze River

Begin your day by venturing into the Lesser Three Gorges, a secluded stretch of the Yangtze River cherished for its serene and unspoiled beauty. This area features narrow, winding waterways flanked by steep cliffs blanketed in lush greenery, creating a peaceful atmosphere far from the crowds. Your guide will share fascinating stories about the ancient boatmen who once navigated these waters and explain the unique ecosystems that flourish here, including rare plants and birds native to the region. With their expert insights, you’ll learn how the Lesser Three Gorges represent not just natural wonder but also a living testament to the harmonious coexistence between local communities and the environment. As you cruise gently through this hidden gem, the guide will point out subtle details you might otherwise miss—like hidden caves or traditional fishing spots—offering a truly immersive and authentic experience.

Next, continue into the striking Wu Gorge, famed for its towering granite peaks that rise dramatically from the river, often cloaked in ethereal mist. Known as a source of inspiration for poets and painters throughout Chinese history, Wu Gorge’s Twelve Peaks each carry evocative names and stories reflecting the landscape’s spiritual significance. Your guide will enrich your journey by recounting ancient legends associated with these peaks, and will highlight the delicate stone carvings and inscriptions etched into the cliffs by past visitors, offering a tangible connection to centuries of cultural heritage. Beyond the spectacular scenery, your guide will also explain how this gorge fits within the broader Yangtze ecosystem and regional history, making sure you leave with a deeper understanding of both nature and culture intertwined.

Later, your boat will navigate through the dramatic twists of Qu Tang Gorge, where steep cliffs crowd the narrow river channel, creating awe-inspiring views at every turn. This gorge has long been a strategic passageway in Chinese history, and your guide will share tales of ancient battles, local myths, and the gorge’s significance in trade and transportation. You’ll also visit White Emperor City, perched high on a hill overlooking the river, a historic site rich with stories of legendary heroes and celebrated poets who found inspiration here. The guide will lead you through its well-preserved pavilions, temples, and courtyards, weaving history with vibrant local folklore. Throughout the day, your guide’s storytelling, cultural knowledge, and attentive service transform these iconic locations into living experiences—allowing you to truly travel like a local and connect deeply with the soul of the Yangtze River.

Day7 Yangtze River

Begin your day with a visit to Fengdu, famously known as the “Ghost City,” a unique cultural site that blends Taoist, Buddhist, and folk beliefs about the afterlife. Located on the northern bank of the Yangtze River, Fengdu offers a fascinating glimpse into traditional Chinese views on morality, death, and the spirit world. Your guide will lead you through the intricate maze of temples, statues, and sculptures that depict scenes from the underworld, sharing stories behind the eerie but richly symbolic artwork. These narratives not only illuminate local customs but also provide deeper insight into Chinese religious philosophy and cultural heritage. With the guide’s expert commentary, you’ll understand how Fengdu’s legends evolved and how they continue to influence local festivals and rituals today.

Exploring Fengdu is not just about sightseeing—it’s an immersive cultural experience. Your guide will help you navigate the sprawling complex, pointing out hidden details and explaining the significance of each temple and sculpture in the context of Chinese spirituality. Beyond the visuals, the guide will engage you with local legends, such as the trials souls face in the afterlife and the moral lessons embedded in these stories. This personalized narration transforms a visit to Fengdu from a mere tourist stop into a profound journey through China’s rich intangible heritage. For those interested, the guide can also arrange for you to witness traditional ceremonies or meet local residents who maintain the customs, deepening your connection to this unique cultural landscape.

After a full day exploring Fengdu’s spiritual and cultural treasures, your guide will assist you in boarding the boat or vehicle for your onward journey, ensuring a smooth and comfortable transfer. Their attentive service doesn’t end with sightseeing; they remain on hand to answer questions and provide insights about what you’ve experienced, helping you reflect on the day’s meaningful discoveries. This level of care embodies our commitment to ‘travel like a local,’ turning every moment into an opportunity for authentic connection and lasting memories along the Yangtze River.

Day8 Yangtze River-Chengdu

Arrive in Chengdu and ease into the city’s laid-back rhythm with a visit to People’s Park, one of the most beloved gathering spots for locals. This tranquil green space is much more than a park — it’s a living snapshot of Chengdu’s social culture. As you stroll past bonsai gardens, tea houses, and lakeside pavilions, your guide will explain the customs of park life, such as spontaneous opera performances, ear-cleaning stalls, and matchmaking corners. You’ll have the chance to sip tea like a true local at a century-old teahouse, where your guide can introduce you to traditional etiquette and regional varieties of Sichuan brews. Rather than just observing, you’ll become part of the rhythm of daily life in Chengdu.

Continue your immersion into Chengdu culture at the Wide and Narrow Alleys (Kuan Zhai Xiangzi), a restored historical district that blends Qing Dynasty architecture with modern-day flair. With your guide leading the way, you’ll explore the area’s contrasts — from ancient courtyards once inhabited by aristocrats to contemporary cafés and artisan boutiques tucked into preserved buildings. Your guide will point out cultural details you might otherwise miss, like stone carvings, traditional door knockers, and historic signage that tell the story of the city’s transformation. You’ll also learn how the area was revitalized in recent years, not just as a tourist destination but as a symbol of local pride. With our expert guidance, you’ll experience Chengdu not as a visitor passing through, but as someone momentarily living its layered history.

Day9 Chengdu

Begin your day with an unforgettable journey to Leshan, home of the world’s largest stone-carved Buddha. Towering at 71 meters tall, the Leshan Giant Buddha was meticulously chiseled from a cliff face during the Tang Dynasty and has stood watch over the confluence of three rivers for over a millennium. Your guide will share the history and spiritual significance of this engineering marvel, including how ancient builders cleverly embedded drainage systems to protect the statue from erosion. Whether you’re admiring the Buddha’s calm gaze from a boat or trekking down the steep paths beside it, your guide will offer local insights and storytelling that bring the site to life far beyond its monumental size.

After returning to Chengdu, enjoy a relaxing evening at Jinli Ancient Street, a vibrant cultural promenade that recreates the ambiance of the Shu Kingdom era. Though it’s popular with both locals and visitors, your guide will help you experience it like an insider — highlighting traditional crafts, recommending regional snacks like spicy rabbit head or sweet glutinous rice cakes, and explaining the meaning behind Sichuan opera masks you’ll see in souvenir stalls. As dusk falls, the lantern-lit street transforms into a charming showcase of Chengdu’s festive spirit. Your guide’s personal tips on where to find the best shadow puppet show or quiet teahouse tucked in an alleyway ensure you don’t just see Jinli — you feel its pulse like a local.

Day10 Chengdu-Xi'an

Your day begins with a memorable visit to the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, one of the most beloved wildlife institutions in China. Our expert local guide will take you through the shaded bamboo pathways as you get up close to China’s iconic national treasure in a setting that mimics their natural habitat. You’ll observe giant pandas during their most active hours—munching on bamboo, climbing trees, or napping adorably. Our guide will share in-depth insights into the conservation efforts, breeding programs, and quirky habits of these gentle giants, making the experience feel more personal and meaningful.

Beyond the pandas, you’ll also get a chance to see red pandas, black-necked cranes, and other rare species housed in carefully designed enclosures. Your guide will help you appreciate the intricate balance of nature and human-led protection behind this world-class center, pointing out hidden details and little-known facts that most visitors miss. Whether you're a wildlife lover or simply curious, this visit offers a quiet yet powerful connection to the natural world—and to the cultural values China places on environmental stewardship.

After your visit, your guide will assist with your smooth transfer to the Chengdu East Railway Station, making sure you're comfortable and well-prepared before boarding the high-speed bullet train to Xi’an. They’ll explain how to navigate the station, help with luggage if needed, and make sure you know what to expect during the ride. The train journey itself is a relaxing way to transition from Sichuan's laid-back charm to Xi’an’s ancient imperial grandeur—giving you time to reflect and look forward to the next chapter of your adventure.

Day11 Xi'an

Begin your day with an unforgettable journey to the world-renowned Terracotta Warriors, often hailed as the Eighth Wonder of the World. Discovered in 1974 by local farmers, this archaeological marvel reveals thousands of life-sized clay soldiers, horses, and chariots standing guard over the tomb of China’s first emperor, Qin Shi Huang. As you explore the vast excavation pits, your guide will help decode the historical and artistic significance of each formation — from the unique facial features of the warriors to the military strategy behind their arrangement. They’ll also share insights into the ongoing preservation efforts and point out hidden details that many visitors miss, such as traces of ancient pigments and the tools used in their construction. Your guide can also assist in visiting the museum’s lesser-known exhibits, offering a more complete picture of the Qin Dynasty’s innovation and ambition.

Afterward, head to the iconic Big Wild Goose Pagoda, a symbol of Tang Dynasty architecture and a spiritual landmark in Xi’an. Originally built to house Buddhist scriptures brought back from India by the monk Xuanzang, the pagoda reflects the early fusion of Chinese and Indian cultures. As you walk around the peaceful temple grounds, your guide will recount the epic journey of Xuanzang along the Silk Road, highlighting how this pagoda became a center of Buddhist learning. Inside, they’ll help interpret carvings and murals that represent key moments in Chinese religious history. For those interested in panoramic city views, your guide can accompany you up the pagoda’s interior staircases, pointing out landmarks and local stories along the skyline — giving you both a literal and figurative overview of Xi’an’s layered past.

Cap off the day in the vibrant Muslim Quarter, a bustling maze of narrow lanes filled with local flavors and cultural fusion. Here, Xi’an’s Islamic heritage comes alive through food, architecture, and community. Your guide will lead you through the sensory-rich alleyways, stopping to explain the history of the Hui people, who have lived here for centuries, blending Chinese and Muslim traditions. Whether it’s tasting freshly grilled lamb skewers, watching hand-pulled noodle masters in action, or learning about the history of the Great Mosque, your guide ensures that every bite and step comes with meaningful context. They’ll recommend the best stalls not just for taste, but for authenticity — helping you experience this iconic neighborhood not as a tourist, but like a local.

Day12 Xi'an-Beijing

Begin your day with a walk along Xi’an’s majestic City Wall, one of the best-preserved ancient fortifications in China. Originally built in the Ming Dynasty, the wall encircles the heart of Xi’an and offers a rare perspective on the city’s layout — where the old town's rooftops and temple spires blend into the modern skyline. Your guide will share stories of the wall’s military role in ancient times, pointing out original watchtowers, battlements, and the clever defensive systems designed to protect the capital of imperial China. For those who want a more active experience, your guide can help arrange a leisurely bike ride along the top of the wall, stopping at key vantage points to discuss Xi’an’s changing cityscape and its layered history from Silk Road hub to modern metropolis.

In the afternoon, your guide will escort you to the station and assist with the smooth boarding process for your high-speed train to Beijing. Traveling on China’s bullet trains is an experience in itself — with speeds reaching up to 350 km/h, you’ll cross vast distances in comfort and style. While onboard, your guide will provide cultural context about the route, such as notable cities or landscapes you pass, and offer tips for your time in Beijing. This isn’t just a transfer — it’s a continuation of your journey through the heart of China, connecting ancient capitals with the country’s dynamic present.

Day13 Beijing

Start your day at Tiananmen Square, a site that resonates deeply with China's national identity and modern history. As one of the largest public squares in the world, it is not only a symbol of political power but also a space where historical events, cultural ceremonies, and daily life intersect. Your guide will walk you through the square’s monumental landmarks — from the solemn Monument to the People’s Heroes to the towering portrait of Chairman Mao. They’ll share insights into the square’s planning and its role during key historical movements, as well as local anecdotes that give life to the open space. You'll also get a feel for how locals view this national symbol today — whether as a political center, a ceremonial space, or simply a place to gather and reflect. With this context, Tiananmen becomes more than a sightseeing stop — it's a living, evolving space that continues to shape the story of China.

From there, pass through the imposing Meridian Gate into the Forbidden City, the largest and best-preserved imperial palace complex in the world. Spanning over 900 buildings, it can be overwhelming — but with your guide’s thoughtful pacing and narrative, you’ll experience it in a meaningful, accessible way. They’ll highlight not just the grandeur of the Hall of Supreme Harmony or the intricate beauty of the Nine Dragon Screen, but also the lesser-known courtyards and quarters where imperial family members lived and worked. You’ll hear stories of emperors and concubines, eunuchs and scholars, as you explore the layered world behind the palace walls. The guide’s deep knowledge of architectural symbolism, feng shui design, and Qing and Ming dynasty customs will help you read the palace like a book — every roof tile, stone path, and throne room revealing another chapter in China's imperial history.

Day14 Beijing

Begin the day with a journey to the Juyongguan section of the Great Wall — a site less visited by crowds yet rich in historical depth and scenic beauty. Nestled within a verdant mountain pass just outside Beijing, this strategic segment once served as a military stronghold and gateway to the capital. As you ascend the stone steps and walk along the undulating ramparts, your guide will bring to life tales of ancient battles, watchtower signals, and the relentless labor of those who built this colossal defense line. They'll help you decipher the unique features of this section — from its circular path and steep slopes to the Buddhist inscriptions carved into the cliffside. At carefully chosen vantage points, your guide can point out the architectural tactics used for surveillance and defense while also giving you space to soak in the sweeping views of the surrounding mountains. The experience is both active and contemplative — a perfect way to feel the pulse of history underfoot.

In the evening, you’ll enjoy a completely different side of Chinese culture — the exhilaration and grace of a traditional acrobatics performance. Held in a historic Beijing theater, the show fuses ancient skill with modern spectacle. Your guide will provide a short background before the performance, explaining how Chinese acrobatics has evolved from folk traditions and temple rituals into a national treasure of performing arts. From plate spinning and contortion to gravity-defying aerial acts, the artists display a lifetime of discipline in each movement. Sit back and marvel as stories unfold through physical feats and perfectly synchronized routines. With VIP seating and insider tips on what to look out for in each act, you’ll appreciate not just the spectacle but the cultural heritage behind it — another example of how travel with a local lens reveals deeper meaning in every experience.

Day15 Beijing

Your final full day in Beijing starts with a tranquil visit to the Temple of Heaven, a masterful example of Ming Dynasty architecture and spiritual design. Set within a vast park, this complex once served as the site where emperors prayed for good harvests, aligning heaven and earth through precise architectural symbolism. As your guide leads you through the Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests and the Echo Wall, they’ll explain the deeply rooted cosmological principles and imperial rituals that shaped ancient Chinese governance. Along the way, you may encounter locals practicing tai chi or playing traditional instruments — a living testament to how this space still pulses with community spirit. Our guide will help you understand the interplay between design and philosophy, and even share local stories about how Beijingers embrace this sacred space today.

In the afternoon, wander through the enchanting Summer Palace, once the royal family’s retreat from the city’s sweltering heat. The landscape here is a perfect harmony of natural beauty and artistic design — from the shimmering waters of Kunming Lake to the elegant Long Corridor adorned with over 14,000 colorful paintings. Your guide will take you off the main paths to reveal quieter pavilions and stories of imperial intrigue, Empress Dowager Cixi’s legacy, and the clever engineering behind the man-made features. After the guided tour, enjoy some free time to explore at your own pace, savor a lakeside snack, or simply sit beneath a willow tree and reflect. This moment of calm and freedom ties together your immersive journey — living, learning, and traveling like a local.

Day16 Beijing-UK

As your unforgettable journey through China draws to a close, your guide will ensure a smooth and stress-free departure. From hotel check-out assistance to coordinating your transfer to the airport, every detail is thoughtfully handled so you can simply relax and reflect on the memories made. Whether it's answering any final questions or helping with last-minute souvenir packing tips, our guide remains attentive until you board your flight.

Though today is a travel day, it's also a chance to pause and appreciate the many layers of culture, history, and human connection you've experienced — from the mighty Yangtze River to the Great Wall, from spicy Sichuan bites to quiet tea in a Chengdu park. You've walked ancient paths, explored imperial palaces, and felt the rhythm of real local life. As you take your flight back to the UK, you carry more than photos — you return with insights, stories, and the kind of understanding that only comes with traveling like a local.

Price Per Person in US Dollars

Price Includes 1. Cozy Ride: Enjoy the comfort and spaciousness of our air-conditioned car, offering scenic views. 2. Bilingual Expert Guide: Benefit from a personalized experience with a guide fluent in your language, catering to your needs. 3. Entrance Fees: Access all attractions and activities mentioned in the itinerary without worrying about additional entrance fees. 4. Seamless Transfer: Enhance your experience with convenient hotel or train station pickup and drop-off service. 5. Connect Seamlessly: Stay connected with complimentary onboard WiFi, allowing you to share your experiences in real-time. 6. City-to-City Train Tickets: Include the cost of train or flight tickets between the cities listed in the itinerary, ensuring a smooth and efficient travel experience. 7. Selected Hotels and Daily Breakfast: Experience a comfortable stay in handpicked hotels, each chosen for its quality and amenities. Enjoy a daily breakfast at the hotel, starting your day on a delicious note. 8. Complimentary Water: Receive a complimentary bottle of water for each person, keeping you refreshed throughout your journey. 9. Travel Agency Liability Insurance: Benefit from coverage under our travel agency liability insurance, providing added protection and peace of mind during your trip.

Price Excludes 1. Personal Expenses: This includes phone bills, laundry, additional tours, postage, and any entertainment fees not covered in the itinerary. 2. Meals: While meals are not included, our guide will recommend the best local food spots, giving you the chance to explore and choose based on your preferences. (Average cost per person for a regular meal at local eateries: 40RMB/6USD-80RMB/12USD) 3. Tips: Tips are not mandatory but are recommended for excellent service. If you feel satisfied with the service, you may consider leaving a tip. 4. Insurance: Insurance coverage for personal loss, illness, or damages incurred during your trip is not included. 5. Optional Activities: Any optional activities listed in the itinerary are not included in the tour fees, allowing you to choose and participate based on your preferences.