Day 1: Tokyo
Welcome to Japan! After completing customs procedures, you’ll be transferred to your hotel by shared shuttle bus. The rest of the day is yours to enjoy at leisure. In the afternoon, you’ll receive details about the start of your tour.
Day 2: Tokyo
In the morning, we’ll take a long guided tour—about five hours—through this simply stunning city! Its vibrant energy and cutting-edge neighborhoods coexist with areas full of peace and tranquility.We’ll make a short stop at Zojoji Temple to capture the most beautiful view of the Tokyo Tower. You’ll notice hundreds upon hundreds of Jizo statues, stone-carved deities considered guardians of children, adorned with knitted hats, bibs, and pinwheels.Next, we’ll head to the famous Shibuya Crossing, said to be the busiest intersection in the world. Then we’ll visit Meiji Shrine, dedicated to the spirits of Emperor Meiji and his wife.We’ll continue our tour by bus along the elegant Omotesando Avenue, explore the most scenic part of the Imperial Palace and its gardens, and stop to visit the famous Nijubashi Bridge.We’ll drive through AKIHABARA, the “Electric City,” known as the center of Japanese manga and anime culture. Then we’ll head to Tokyo Skytree (admission included), Japan’s tallest structure, where we’ll enjoy an unmatched panoramic view of the city.We’ll end our visit in ASAKUSA, where we’ll explore Sensoji Temple and the famous Nakamise Street. Afterwards, we’ll return to the hotel.6:30 p.m. – We’ll meet our guide in the hotel lobby and take the subway (tickets included) to the Shinjuku area. From there, we’ll enjoy a walk through this lively district before heading to a local restaurant for dinner (included). We’ll return to the hotel by subway, accompanied by our guide.Note: The order of the visits may vary depending on the admission time for Tokyo Skytree. In case of bad weather or other exceptional circumstances, access to Tokyo Skytree may be limited. In that case, an alternative visit to another iconic city viewpoint will be offered.
Day 3: Tokyo - Kamakura - ENOSHIMA - Odawara
We’ll leave TOKYO and head to KAMAKURA, an “oasis of peace” that served as Japan’s capital for two centuries and is home to numerous shrines, temples, and gardens.At the Hokoku-ji Zen Temple, we’ll stroll through its beautiful bamboo forest (admission included) and enjoy a cup of green tea. We’ll also visit Sugimoto-dera, founded in 734 and considered the oldest temple in the city.There will be some free time in the pleasant city center before visiting the Great Buddha (Daibutsu)—admission included.Our route then continues along a scenic coastal road following the Pacific Ocean. We’ll have free time for lunch and a walk on Enoshima, a small island connected to the mainland by a bridge.We’ll then continue to ODAWARA, where admission to the castle is included—an impressive medieval fortress (restored in the 20th century) from the Edo period and one of Japan’s most important castles.Overnight stay.
Day 4: Odawara - Mount Fuji - Kawaguchiko - Tokyo
Our journey today is truly spectacular as we travel toward the beautiful Hakone region, an area of lakes and mountains near Mount Fuji.We’ll begin the day by ascending to OWAKUDANI, the “Valley of Hell,” a volcanic crater known for its steam vents, bubbling mud, and sulfur gases.(Note: Occasionally, access may be closed due to high volcanic activity or toxic gases. In that case, we will visit Arakurayama Sengen Park instead.)Afterward, we’ll continue to OSHINO HAKKAI, a small and picturesque village with eight ponds offering beautiful views of Mount Fuji.Next, we’ll head to KAWAGUCHIKO, an idyllic town of small houses, flowers, and mountains beside its beautiful lake. Here we’ll enjoy a scenic boat ride on Lake Kawaguchiko.Later, we’ll begin our ascent toward Mount Fuji along the road leading to the Fifth Station, located at an altitude of 2,305 meters (7,562 feet), surrounded by spectacular forests and views.Note: In winter, the road leading up Mount Fuji is often closed due to snow or weather conditions; during those times, we will go as far as permitted.Return to TOKYO at the end of the day.
Day 5: Tokyo - Beijing
After breakfast, we’ll head to the airport by shuttle bus for our included flight to Beijing.Welcome to China! Upon arrival, we’ll provide a transfer to the hotel. In the late afternoon, we’ll have our first introduction to this impressive city, starting with a transfer to the famous Wangfujing Street, a lively pedestrian and commercial avenue filled with shops and restaurants. Dinner will be included. Afterward, we’ll return to the hotel.
Day 6: Beijing
An exciting day awaits us as we explore the highlights of Beijing, the vibrant capital of China. We’ll embark on a full-day tour, discovering some of the city´s most iconic avenues. Our journey will take us to the Great Chinese Imperial Palace, better known as the Forbidden City, the most majestic architectural complex in China, where 24 emperors ruled for nearly 500 years.We’ll also visit Jingshan Park, home to Coal Hill, one of the best-preserved imperial gardens in Beijing. From its summit, we’ll enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the Forbidden City—weather permitting. Next, we’ll stroll through Tiananmen Square, one of the largest public squares in the world, from where we can admire the Great National Theater, also known as the Beijing Opera House.Lunch will be included.Our journey will continue with a visit to the Summer Palace, the imperial retreat of the Qing Dynasty, renowned for its picturesque gardens and serene lakes. In the afternoon, we’ll immerse ourselves in traditional Beijing life with a tricycle ride through the historic Hutong neighborhoods. Here, we’ll experience the city´s rich cultural heritage, explore traditional shops, and visit a Siheyuan, a classic courtyard house that reflects the city´s architectural charm.We’ll then return to the hotel for an overnight stay.Note: Due to heritage protection measures and visitor safety regulations, the governing body of the Forbidden City has temporarily reduced daily visitor capacity. As a result, we cannot guarantee this visit. If access is unavailable, we’ll instead explore the Confucius Temple and the Lama Temple, both of which are emblematic sites in Chinese history and culture.
Day 7: Beijing - Shanghai
We’ll take an excursion to the Great Wall at the Mutianyu section, a spectacular architectural masterpiece whose history spans more than 2,000 years. We’ll ride the cable car up and down to access the Wall (tickets included). We’ll bid farewell to Beijing with a delicious lunch included, featuring the famous Peking duck. Afterward, we’ll transfer to the train station to board a high-speed train bound for Shanghai. Upon arrival, we’ll transfer to the hotel for check-in and overnight stay.
Day 8: Shanghai
Our tour of Shanghai will take us through its most iconic sights. We´ll begin in Pudong, Shanghai’s modern financial district, located across the Huangpu River. This area is home to towering skyscrapers, including the iconic Pearl Tower.We’ll then take a scenic ferry ride across the Shanghai River, offering spectacular views of both the historic and contemporary sides of the city.Next, we’ll stroll through the Old City and visit the serene Yuyuan Garden, a beautifully preserved private garden built during the Ming Dynasty. Here, we’ll also experience a traditional tea ceremony, an integral part of China’s rich cultural heritage.Our tour will continue through Xintiandi, one of the city’s trendiest neighborhoods, known for its stylish boutiques, cafés, and vibrant atmosphere.Lunch will be included.In the afternoon, we’ll explore Tianzifang, a former residential district now famous for its maze-like alleys, charming craft shops, and contemporary art galleries.We’ll conclude our day with a walk along The Bund, where grand colonial-era buildings reflect the influence of European trade in Shanghai.Free afternoon. If you wish, you can enjoy a boat trip to see Shanghai at night, it will be an unforgettable experience.
Day 9: Shanghai - Luoyang
Transfer to the train station to board a high-speed train (scheduled departure at 07:17 a.m.). In just over five hours, we’ll travel 1,000 km through picturesque landscapes, passing through beautiful stretches of countryside before arriving in Luoyang.Lunch will be included.Our visit will begin at the awe-inspiring Longmen Buddhist Caves, an extraordinary complex stretching over a kilometer along the rocky cliffs of the river. Here, more than 100,000 Buddha statues and carvings have been sculpted into the stone, creating one of China’s most remarkable archaeological sites. To fully appreciate the grandeur of this site, we’ll also enjoy a scenic boat ride along the river.Afterward, we’ll transfer to the ancient city of Luoyang, where we’ll pass through its imposing walls and immerse ourselves in the lively atmosphere of its illuminated streets, filled with traditional charm and vibrant local activity.
Day 10: Luoyang - Longmen - Sanmexia - Xian
In the early morning, on the outskirts of Luoyang, we’ll visit the White Horse Buddhist Monastery, a vast and historic center of Buddhist learning that welcomes scholars and practitioners from around the world.We’ll then continue our journey to Sanmenxia, a city rich in history. Here, we’ll admire the mighty Yellow River and visit the Baolun Temple, known for its striking tall pagoda. We’ll also explore the renowned Guo Museum, considered one of the finest in China, where we’ll see the ancient funeral carriages of the former State of Guo, offering a fascinating glimpse into the region’s past.Lunch will be included.Our journey eastward will take us past the sacred Mount Hua, one of China’s holiest mountains, known for its dramatic peaks and spiritual significance.By late afternoon, we’ll arrive in Xian, where our day will come to an end.
Day 11: Xian
We have arrived in Xian, the fascinating city where the ancient Silk Road began.In the morning, we’ll visit the legendary Terracotta Army, an astonishing archaeological site where thousands of life-sized clay soldiers, hidden underground for centuries, stand guard over the tomb of China’s first emperor.Afterward, we’ll return to Xian to visit the Small Wild Goose Pagoda, a beautiful Buddhist structure that has stood for over a thousand years.Next, we’ll explore the city’s historic walled center, passing through the vibrant Muslim Quarter, where we’ll visit the Great Mosque. This unique site reflects the rich blend of cultures and religions that have shaped China over the centuries.Our tour also includes entrance to the Drum Tower, where we’ll enjoy a short performance of traditional Chinese music played on ancient instruments.Afterward, you’ll have free time to explore at your own pace.
Day 12: Xian - Chengdu
We leave Xian in a very modern high-speed train, and in just over three hours we cover the 700 km that separate us from CHENGDU. On arrival we will go to the Panda Bear research and breeding centre, a reserve where 120 giant pandas and 76 red pandas live. Lunch included. In the afternoon we will take a stroll through the People´s Park, with its small lake, the local people doing Taichi, and its tea houses.-
Day 13: Chengdu
Today we include full-day tour of Sichuan Province, with its pleasant landscapes and traditional villages. In DUJIANGYAN we see the traditional irrigation system, which has been working for more than 2000 years and is a world heritage site. QUINGCHENG SHAN, “mountain of the green city” is a Taoist holy mountain. Its paths through the forests show us caves, pavilions and centuries-old wooden temples, lunch included. Finally, we will visit the ancient city of JIEZI with its alleys with over a thousand years of history. Return to CHENGDU.
Day 14: Chengdu - Miao Village - Zhaoqing
We will travel by train, we get up early (our train leaves at 7.38 hrs), and we have to do almost a thousand kilometres in just over five and a half hours amidst magnificent mountain scenery (picnic lunch on the train). On arrival in Congjiang, we are in a magnificent and unknown area of China inhabited by ethnic minorities. We see the BASHA MIAO Village in the forest, with its wooden houses. This is the only ethnic group authorised to carry firearms, as they were traditional bear hunters. We continue to ZHAOXING, the most important town of the Dong minority, a beautiful place with its more than 800 traditional homes; many say that it is the most beautiful town in China. Accommodation.
Day 15: Zhaoqing - Guangxiao - Chengyang - Longsheng - Guilin
Today you will do one of the most beautiful and exciting stages of your trip. GUANGXIAO, among amazing villages of the Dong ethnic group with its beautiful wooden architecture, this charming town frozen in time is little visited by international tourism; we will see its suspension bridge, the drum tower and the opera house. We also stop at CHENGYANG, with its magnificent “wind and rain bridge”. Lunch included. In LONGSHENG we will go to the LONJI rice fields, a World Heritage Site. A small bus will take us to the viewpoints and you can walk down a sector along paths between rice paddies and wonderful scenery. After that we continue to GUILIN -Arrival at the end of the afternoon-
Day 16: Guilin
A full day in GUILIN, one of the most popular cities in China with a very pleasant atmosphere on the banks of its lake, next to the river Li, and with its busy shopping streets in the centre. We include a visit to the Cane Flutes Grotto, a magnificent cave in which there are numerous fantastically shaped stalactites and stalagmites lit up in beautiful colours, creating a spectacular world in the bowels of the earth. Afternoon free, we recommend you visit the Jingjiang Palace, the “miniature forbidden city”. Accommodation.Note: The order of visits in Guilin as well as the day of the Li River Cruise may be adjusted without altering the overall tiinerary.
Day 17: Guilin - Li River Cruise - Yangshuo - Huangyao - Guangzhou
We will leave Guilin by boat and take a cruise on the Li river. The countryside is spectacular with its green mountains, the villages on the banks, the amazing rocks and its mountain peaks in amazing shapes. Lunch included. We come to YANGSHUO, a very lively tourist city. A stroll before continuing through central China to the rural HUANGYAO; this ancient city is magnificently preserved with its small streets, old buildings, temples. The life and activity of its inhabitants will also take us to another time. Time for a stroll. We continue on our way to GUANGZHOU -Arrival at the end of the day-
Day 18: Guangzhou - Zhuhai - Macau
Guangzhou, we include a two-hour tour of this thriving metropolis of southern China; we will walk along Shangiaxju Street with its traditional market, see the House of the Chen Clan from the end of the 19th century and we will explore the riverside area. Free time and lunch included. In the afternoon we travel to ZHUHAI on the China Sea; we stop next to the impressive Opera House built on land reclaimed from the sea, opened in 2016 and whose impressive shape symbolises the sun and the moon. BORDER CROSSING and entry in MACAU, where we see the area of the casinos, many of which are in the same style as those in Las Vegas. Their activity is impressive. VERY IMPORTANT: If you return to mainland China on your trip after your stay in Macau and Hong Kong, you need a double entry visa.
Day 19: Macau - Hong Kong
MACAU. We include a tour of the city whose historic centre has been declared a World Heritage Site. Administered by the Portuguese from the 16th century until 1999, its history can be seen in its ancient churches, the tiles of the civil buildings, its fortress and the oldest lighthouse in China. Free time and lunch included. In the afternoon we take the impressive bridge that connects Hong Kong with Macao. This was opened at the end of 2018 and is an engineering feat with more than 30 kilometres of bridges over the China Sea, 6 kilometres of tunnel under the sea and artificial islands; we will stop at its tourist platform to admire this work. HONG KONG - Arrival. After our accommodation, we will take the Star ferry, crossing Hong Kong bay by boat to enjoy a short walk to see the illuminated buildings from the other shore. Return to the area of our hotel. Dinner included. Accomodation.Note: If there are fewer than 12 people in the group, the trip from Macau to Hong Kong may be done by Shuttle bus.
Day 20: Hong Kong
After breakfast, we will visit the city to see the financial centre with its tall skyscrapers, and we will visit the History Museum that enlightens us on the history of the city (colonial period, World War, etc.) the avenue of the Stars by the dock, which shows us the celebrities of the cinema industry. We will take the Star ferry across Hong Kong Bay and climb by bus up to Victoria Peak (552 m) with a view of the whole city. Return on Peak Tram. After our visit, free afternoon.
Day 21: Hong Kong
After breakfast, our journey will come to an end, leaving you with wonderful lasting memories.
