Beijing, Chengdu, Lijiang & Dali - 14 days
Beijing, Chengdu, Lijiang & Dali - 14 days
Tour Overview
Embark on a captivating 14-day journey through China and Hong Kong, exploring iconic landmarks and cultural treasures. Begin in Beijing with visits to Tiananmen Square, the Forbidden City, and the Great Wall. In Xi’an, marvel at the Terracotta Warriors and ancient City Walls. Meet pandas at Chengdu’s Dujiangyan Panda Base and stroll through People’s Park. Discover Lijiang’s historic villages and the scenic Black Dragon Pool. In Dali, admire the Three Pagodas and enjoy a boat ride on Erhai Lake. Experience Kunming’s Black Stone Forest and Bamboo Temple before concluding your adventure in the vibrant city of Hong Kong. Enjoy guided sightseeing, comfortable accommodations, and seamless transfers throughout this unforgettable tour. ...more ...less
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Beijing
Location: Beijing
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Lunch
Welcome to China! Arrive in Beijing before 11:00 a.m., where you'll be greeted at the airport by your local guide.
Kick off your exploration with a visit to the Temple of Heaven, a stunning example of religious architecture where emperors historically prayed for bountiful harvests. Nearby, immerse yourself in the lively marriage market, a fascinating social hub where parents search for suitable matches for their children.
After lunch at a local restaurant, transfer to your hotel for check-in and spend the rest of the afternoon at leisure. ...more ...less
Day 2: Beijing
Location: Beijing
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
After breakfast at your hotel, you’ll set out to visit the Badaling section of the Great Wall. This was the first part of the Wall to be restored for tourism in 1957. Renowned for its accessibility and relatively easy walking conditions, it is the most visited and well-preserved section of the Great Wall, featuring broad, well-maintained paths and stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
Next, you’ll have the opportunity to explore a jade factory, where you can learn about and purchase exquisite jade jewelry.
After lunch, spend a leisurely time exploring the Summer Palace, where you can admire the blooming gardens grand pagodas. The Summer Palace is an impressive example of man-made beauty centered around Kunming Lake, an artificial body of water that was created by a labor force of over 10,000 workers. The rest of the evening will be spent at leisure.
Day 3: Beijing
Location: Beijing
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Beijing - Xi'an. You’ll start your day by visiting Tiananmen Square, a site of profound historical importance where the People's Republic of China was founded and which has been the backdrop for numerous significant events in China’s history. Take a moment to admire the iconic portrait of Mao Zedong that hangs over the Tiananmen gates.
Next, you’ll proceed to the Forbidden City, the grand palace complex that served as the imperial residence for emperors of the Ming and Qing dynasties. This vast palace boasts over 800 opulent buildings and 9,000 chambers. Please note that the Forbidden City is closed on Mondays. If your visit coincides with a Monday or if tickets are sold out, you will have the option to visit the Lama Temple or Confucius Temple as alternatives.
Break for lunch, before transferring to Beijing West Railway Station. Here, you’ll board a high-speed train to Xi’an. Upon arrival in Xi’an, you’ll meet your local guide at the railway station and be transferred to your hotel for check-in.
Day 4: Xi'an
Location: Xi'an
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Dive into history at the Terracotta Warrior Museum, where you can marvel at the collection of terracotta sculptures depicting the armies of Qin Shi Huang, the first Emperor of China. These life-sized figures were meticulously modeled after actual soldiers of the Qin Army, and the site includes approximately 8,000 soldiers, 100 chariots, and 600 horses - none of which are identical. This impressive army was created to guard the remains of Emperor Qin Shihuang, which are housed in a vast mausoleum complex.
Afterward, enjoy lunch at a local Chinese restaurant before continuing your exploration at Xi'an's ancient City Wall, one of the oldest and best-preserved city walls in China. You can walk or bike along the top of the wall, experiencing the stunning panoramic views of the city.
Then explore the Grand Mosque, the largest and one of the most significant Islamic places of worship in the country. Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of the Muslim Quarter, where you can discover a wide array of food stalls offering local delicacies.
Day 5: Xi'an
Location: Xi'an
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Xi'an - Chengdu. After breakfast at the hotel, start your day with a visit to the Big Wild Goose Pagoda, one of China's most iconic Buddhist pagodas. Constructed during the Tang Dynasty (618-907), this pagoda is renowned for housing sacred scriptures brought from India by the monk Xuanzang.
Following your visit, enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before transferring to the railway station for your high-speed train journey to Chengdu, approx. 3-4 hours.
Upon arrival in Chengdu, you will be greeted by your local guide at the railway station and transferred to your hotel for check-in. The rest of the evening is at your leisure.
Day 6: Chengdu
Location: Chengdu
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Chengdu – Dujiangyan – Chengdu. Today you'll visit the Giant Panda Base in Dujiangyan, where you can observe these beloved creatures in their natural habitat. This conservation facility is renowned for its efforts in panda research and breeding, providing an unforgettable experience for animal lovers.
Following your panda adventure, enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before spending a leisurely afternoon at People's Park, the largest green space in downtown Chengdu. With its lake, gardens, teahouses, and monuments, it's an ideal place to observe local life. Stroll along the lake, watch people sing and dance, or paint water calligraphy. You can also relax in a teahouse, where you can learn to play Mahjong or Chinese chess.
Next, visit the Narrow and Wide Alley, a historic area part of Chengdu’s Cultural Protection Project. This area features traditional courtyards (Siheyuan) and old alleys where notable figures once lived. The rest of the evening will be spent at leisure.
Day 7: Chengdu
Location: Lijiang
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Chengdu - Lijiang. Start your day with breakfast at the hotel before transferring to the airport for your flight to Lijiang, with a flight time of approximately 1.5 to 2 hours.
Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted by your local guide and transferred to your hotel for check-in. Use the rest of the day to explore Lijiang at your own pace.
Day 8: Lijiang
Location: Lijiang
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
After breakfast at your hotel, embark on a visit to the historic Shuhe and Baisha old villages. Shuhe, known as 'Shaowu' in the Naxi language, translates to "village at the foot of the high mountain" and was recognised as a key part of Lijiang Ancient Town, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Baisha Village, the birthplace of Naxi culture and the ancient capital of the Naxi Kingdom, features the Baisha Mural, an important cultural treasure.
Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before heading to the Black Dragon Pool, a prominent landmark of Lijiang. Surrounded by lush greenery and willow trees, the pool offers a picturesque reflection of the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain.
The evening is free for you to explore or relax, with dinner on your own.
Day 9: Lijiang
Location: Dali
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Lijiang - Dali. This morning, drive to Dali with a private driver, and meet your local guide in Xizhou after approximately 3.5 hours. En route, explore Xizhou, where the Bai minority group's well-preserved old houses and streets provide a fascinating glimpse into the area's history.
Experience the Three Courses Tea performance, a traditional ceremony showcasing the artistry and cultural significance of tea in Bai culture. Enjoy lunch locally before transferring to your hotel upon arrival in Dali. The evening is free for you to explore Dali at your own pace.
Day 10: Dali
Location: Dali
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Time to explore the wonderous Dali! Start your day with breakfast before heading to the Three Pagodas. Located at the eastern foot of Mt. Cangshan and facing Erhai Lake, the Three Pagodas are an iconic symbol of Dali, consisting of three independent pagodas arranged in a symmetrical triangle. Constructed of brick and coated with white mud, these pagodas are celebrated for their elegant and balanced design.
Next, transfer to the pier for a boat ride on Erhai Lake. Spanning 1.5 hours, this scenic cruise offers stunning views of the crescent-shaped lake nestled between Mt. Cangshan and Dali City.
After disembarking, opt to enjoy a 15km bike ride along the lake road, taking in the natural beauty of the surroundings. Afterwards, you'll be transferred back to your hotel, where you can spend the evening exploring the charming ancient town of Dali at your own pace.
Day 11: Dali
Location: Kunming
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Dali - Kunming. This morning, get ready to take a train to your next destination - Kunming. The train journey will take approximately 2 to 2.5 hours. Upon arrival, you'll be met by your local guide.
Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before visiting the Bamboo Temple. Established during the Yuan Dynasty (1271-1368), this temple is the first dedicated to Zen Buddhism in Yunnan and is renowned for its collection of 500 unique arhat statues, each depicting a different range of emotions. Following your visit, transfer to your hotel with the night at leisure.
Day 12: Kunming
Location: Kunming
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Explore Kunming's wonderous scenery as you head to the Black Stone Forest. This remarkable karst landscape features towering limestone formations, shaped by millions of years of erosion into an otherworldly maze of stone pillars and spires. These natural sculptures have even inspired local folklore and legends. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Black Stone Forest stands out for its geological significance and stunning natural beauty.
After exploring, return to your hotel and enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure.
Day 13: Kunming
Location: Hong Kong
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Kunming - Hong Kong. After breakfast at the hotel, transfer to the train station for your journey to Hong Kong, approximately 7.5 hours. Upon arrival in Hong Kong, make your own way to the hotel, with the rest of the evening at leisure to explore this stunning metropolis.
Day 14: Hong Kong
Location: Hong Kong
Meals Included: Breakfast
Your tour ends after breakfast. Make your own way to the airport for your departure flight, or contact us to book a departure transfer. We hope you enjoyed your journey through China and Hong Kong. Safe travels!
What's Included
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Daily breakfast & 9 lunches
Enjoy daily breakfast and 9 lunches throughout the tour.
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13 nights 3-4 star hotels
Stay in comfortable 3-4 star hotels for 13 nights.
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Airport arrival transfer on day 1
Receive a transfer from the airport to your hotel upon arrival on day 1.
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High speed train tickets from Beijing - Xi’an - Chengdu & Dali - Kunming - Hong Kong (2nd class)
Travel between cities on high-speed trains in 2nd class.
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Economy class flight from Chengdu to Lijiang
Fly from Chengdu to Lijiang in economy class.
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Guided sightseeing in Beijing, Great Wall, Xi'an, Chengdu, Lijiang, Dali & Kunming
Enjoy guided sightseeing tours in multiple cities including Beijing, Xi'an, Chengdu, Lijiang, Dali, and Kunming.
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Boat ride on Erhai Lake in Dali
Experience a serene boat ride on Erhai Lake in Dali.
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Entrance fees as per itinerary
All entrance fees to attractions mentioned in the itinerary are included.
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English speaking specialist guides at local sights
Benefit from the expertise of English-speaking specialist guides at local sights.
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All relevant transfers and transportation in private A/C vehicles
All transfers and transportation in private air-conditioned vehicles are included.
What's Not Included
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International flights and visa
International flights and visa fees are not included.
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Tip for your tour guide
Tips for your tour guide are not included.
It is recommended to allow USD $6 per person per day for your guide and USD $3 per person per day for your driver.
Tipping is an entirely personal gesture. -
Airport departure transfer
Airport departure transfer is not included.
Mode of Transport
Travel in style with high-speed train tickets, an economy class flight, and private A/C vehicles for all relevant transfers and transportation.
Accommodation
Enjoy 13 nights in comfortable 3-4 star hotels, providing a relaxing retreat after each day's adventures.
Age Policy
12 yrs, accompanied by an adult
Check out our Q&As
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What kind of accommodation is provided during the tour?
The tour includes 13 nights in 3-4 star hotels.
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Are meals included in the tour package?
Yes, daily breakfast and 9 lunches are included in the tour package.
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Is airport transfer included in the tour?
An airport arrival transfer on day 1 is included, but the airport departure transfer is not included.
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What kind of transportation is used during the tour?
The tour includes high-speed train tickets from Beijing to Xi’an, Xi’an to Chengdu, and Dali to Kunming to Hong Kong (2nd class), an economy class flight from Chengdu to Lijiang, and all relevant transfers and transportation in private air-conditioned vehicles.
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Are entrance fees to attractions included?
Yes, entrance fees as per the itinerary are included.
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Will there be a guide during the tour?
Yes, the tour includes English-speaking specialist guides at local sights.
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Is there any emergency support available during the tour?
Yes, there is a 24-hour emergency hotline available with English-speaking support.
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What activities are included in Dali?
In Dali, you will visit the Three Pagodas, take a boat ride on Erhai Lake, and have the option to enjoy a 15km bike ride along the lake road.
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What can I expect to see at the Dujiangyan Panda Base?
At the Dujiangyan Panda Base, you can observe giant pandas in their natural habitat and learn about the conservation efforts for these beloved creatures.
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What is the significance of the Terracotta Warrior Museum in Xi’an?
The Terracotta Warrior Museum houses a collection of life-sized terracotta sculptures depicting the armies of Qin Shi Huang, the first Emperor of China. These figures were created to guard the emperor's mausoleum and are a significant archaeological discovery.
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What is unique about the Black Stone Forest in Kunming?
The Black Stone Forest is a remarkable karst landscape featuring towering limestone formations shaped by millions of years of erosion. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its geological significance and stunning natural beauty.
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What cultural experiences are included in Lijiang?
In Lijiang, you will visit the historic Shuhe and Baisha old villages, explore the Black Dragon Pool, and learn about the Naxi culture and the Baisha Mural.
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What is the recommended tipping policy for the tour guides and drivers?
It is recommended to allow USD $6 per person per day for your guide and USD $3 per person per day for your driver. Tipping is an entirely personal gesture.
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
Ensuring our footprint is light and that the benefits of travelling reach the local communities you visit is paramount to us. We’re proud to say that when travelling with us, the large majority of your holiday funds remain within the countries you visit, supporting local economies at a grass roots level.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
Since 1998
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Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?
With English-speaking tours, it's not a huge surprise that most on our travellers are from English-speaking countries or have English as their second language. Our group tours cater for everyone from 18 years old to 70+
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
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Cancellation Policy
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Beijing, Chengdu, Lijiang & Dali - 14 days
14 Days Starting in Beijing, China and ending in Hong Kong
Visiting: Beijing, Xi'an, Chengdu, Lijiang, Dali, Kunming, Hong Kong
Tour operator:
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Age range:
12-
Tour operated in:
EnglishInterests:
Cultural, Gardens & Nature Tours, Rail Tours, Wildlife Tours