Panorama of China with Yangtze River and Hong Kong
Overview
Embark on a captivating journey through China, where ancient history meets breathtaking landscapes. Discover monumental treasures, experience rich cultural heritage, and marvel at picturesque scenery that stretches from serene waterways to majestic mountains. This unforgettable adventure promises a blend of iconic landmarks, tranquil retreats, and vibrant cities, leaving you with memories that will last a lifetime.
This itinerary features More Moments activities included with your package.
If your itinerary includes domestic and/or regional flight tickets, as well as entry tickets to landmarks that require passport details, you must call Air Canada Vacations immediately upon receiving your booking confirmation. Failure to provide Air Canada Vacations with your passport details may result in the unavailability of domestic and/or regional flight tickets and entry passes for certain landmarks included in your tour package. It is mandatory to call Air Canada Vacations at the number provided in your electronic confirmation as soon as your booking is confirmed to submit your passport details.
Format
Locations
- Beijing
- Xi'an
- Zhengzhou
- Hangzhou
- Suzhou
- Shanghai
- Guilin
- Yangshuo
- Hong Kong
- China
- Hong Kong
- Yangtze River, China
Inclusions
- Round-trip flights to China (if Flight & Hotel package option is chosen).
- One-way high-speed train ticket per person in second class from Beijing to Xi’an, from Xi’an to Luoyang, Zhengzhou to Yichang and from Guilin to Hong Kong
- One-way inter-city flight in economy class from Chongqing to Hangzhou and from Shanghai to Guilin
- 20 nights superior accommodation (4 nights in Beijing, 2 nights in Xi’an, 1 night in Zhengzhou, 4 nights cruise, 1 night in Hangzhou & 1 night in Suzhou, 2 nights in Shanghai, 2 nights in Guilin, 1 night in Yangshuo and 2 nights in Hong Kong)
- Daily breakfast
- Lunch and dinner as per itinerary
- Shared round-trip transfers to/from airport
- Shared transfers for all sightseeing activities within the itinerary
More Moments activities included:
- Beijing visits include – Tiananmen Square, the Forbidden City, a jade exhibition, the Great Wall of China, the Summer Palace with a boat ride experience and a drive-by the Bird’s Nest and Water Cube (stop for photos if time permits)
- Xi’an visits include – Terracotta Warriors and Horses Museum, an Art Ceramic Factory, the Ancient City Wall and a curated Shaanxi dinner experience in Xi’an
- Luoyang visits include Longmen Grottoes Exploration and a visit to the Shaolin Temple
- Chongqing visits include – Panda House, Ci Qi Kou town, a Yangtze River Cruise, including a Shore excursion to Fengdu Snow Jade Cave, a Captain's Welcome Party and a scenic cruise through Qutang Gorge
- Yichang visits include – Three Gorges Dam Project, Xiling Gorge Cruising Experience
- Hangzhou visits include – West Lake and a tea-tasting experience at the Dragon Well Tea Plantation in Hangzhou
- Suzhou visits include – Lingering Garden and a silk factory, Grand Canal Cruise
- Shanghai visits include – Stroll on the Bund, the Shanghai Museum and the City God Temple area
- Guilin visits include – Elephant Trunk Hill, Reed Flute Caves, Li River boat ride from Guilin to Yangshuo, Longsheng Rice Terraces
- Hong Kong visits include – half-day city tour
- Gratuities
- Services of English-speaking tour guides and driver service fees
- Landmark entrance fees according to the itinerary, unless specified otherwise
- Hotel taxes, fees, and service charges
- Earn extra Aeroplan® points per member on this tour
Itinerary
Day 1
Depart Canada
Overnight flight to Beijing’s International Airport.
Day 2
Welcome to Beijing
Upon arrival, you will need to clear customs and immigration. After, proceed to collect your luggage and exit the luggage hall. A local representative will greet you with an Air Canada Vacations sign and escort you to your transfer to take you to your hotel for check-in. Spend the rest of the day at leisure.
Day 3
Beijing
After breakfast, meet your tour guide in the hotel lobby and get ready for an exciting day ahead. Your first stop will be Tiananmen Square, followed by a visit to the magnificent Forbidden City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Afterward, enjoy a delicious traditional lunch to complete the experience.
Enjoy the rest of the afternoon at leisure.
More Moments Activities Included
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Visit to Tiananmen Square
Located in the heart of the city is one of the world’s largest public squares. Steeped in history, it is a symbol of China's political and cultural significance. Surrounded by iconic landmarks such as the Gate of Heavenly Peace, the Mausoleum of Mao Zedong, and the Great Hall of the People, the square has been the site of numerous historic events, making it a must-see destination for anyone visiting Beijing.
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Visit to the Forbidden City
This vast imperial palace complex was once home to Chinese emperors for nearly 500 years. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is renowned for its stunning architecture, intricate design, and historical significance, representing China's ancient grandeur. It is a must-see landmark for history enthusiasts.
Meal(s): Breakfast and lunch
Day 4
Beijing
After breakfast, meet your tour guide in your hotel lobby for an exciting day of exploration. Your first stop will be one of Asia's largest jade exhibitions, followed by a visit to the iconic Great Wall. Later, enjoy a drive past two modern symbols of China, the Bird’s Nest and the Water Cube (if time permits, there may be a brief stop at these landmarks for photos).
Afterwards, you will be transferred back to your hotel. Spend the rest of the day at leisure.
More Moments Activities Included
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Visit to the China National Jade Museum
Enjoy a fascinating glimpse into one of the most extensive collections of jade artifacts in the world. The museum showcases the history, artistry, and significance of jade in Chinese culture. It features a wide array of jade carvings, sculptures, and jewelry, as well as interactive exhibits explaining the importance of jade throughout Chinese history.
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Visit to the Great Wall of China
China's most iconic landmark awaits! Seize the opportunity to climb a section of this 3,700-mile wonder and experience its breathtaking grandeur firsthand.
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Drive by the Bird’s Nest and Water Cube
Drive by the modern exteriors of the structures built for the 2008 Beijing Summer Olympics. Both buildings have become symbols of modern China and are prominent landmarks showcasing the country's architectural prowess.
Meal(s): Breakfast and lunch
Day 5
Beijing
After breakfast, embark on a full-day adventure starting with a scenic boat tour on Lake Kunming, followed by an exciting stroll through the expansive grounds of the Summer Palace.
Afterwards, you will be transferred back to your hotel. Spend the rest of the day at leisure.
More Moments Activities Included
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Summer Palace with boat ride experience
Experience the tranquility of a serene boat ride across the shimmering lake, surrounded by breathtaking views. Then, wander through the majestic palace grounds, where history and nature blend seamlessly, offering a glimpse into the grandeur of royal life.
Meal(s): Breakfast and lunch
Day 6
Beijing – Xi’an
After breakfast and check-out, your transfer will take you to the Beijing’s train station for your high-speed train journey to Xi’an, the historic capital of eleven dynasties and a treasure trove of China’s ancient heritage.
Upon arrival, look for the Air Canada Vacations sign held by a representative who will greet you and escort you to your hotel transfer for check-in and a chance to freshen up before this evening’s culinary experience.
Tonight, you will enjoy a specially curated Shaanxi dinner at a local restaurant, offering an authentic taste of the region’s rich flavours.
After dinner, you will be transferred back to the hotel. Rest of the evening at leisure.
More Moments Activities Included
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Curated Shaanxi dinner experience
Savour iconic and aromatic dishes, each steeped in centuries of culinary tradition. Immerse yourself in the rich heritage of the ancient Silk Road as every bite tells a story, blending bold flavours with timeless cultural charm for an unforgettable culinary adventure.
Meal(s): Breakfast and dinner
Day 7
Xi’an
After breakfast, meet your tour guide in the hotel lobby for a 45-minute* drive east of Xi’an to the Lintong District. Your first stop will be the Terracotta Warriors and Horses Museum, followed by a visit to an Art Ceramics Factory (specific factory details will be provided by your local guide). Conclude the day with a visit to the Ancient City Wall, a remarkable historical landmark.
*Driving time may vary depending on the traffic and road conditions
After, you will be transferred back to your hotel. Enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure.
More Moments Activities Included
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Visit to the Terracotta Warriors and Horses Museum
This world-renowned UNESCO World Heritage Site was discovered in 1974. housing thousands of life-sized terracotta soldiers, horses and chariots created over 2,000 years ago to guard the tomb of China’s first emperor, Qin Shi Huang. Each figure is uniquely detailed and well-preserved, reflecting the artistry and craftsmanship of ancient China. The museum is one of the most iconic historical attractions in China, as well as the world.
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Visit to an art ceramic factory
Enjoy a fascinating glimpse into the craftsmanship behind traditional Chinese ceramics. Watch skilled artisans create exquisite terracotta replicas, pottery, and decorative items using age-old techniques. Afterwards, take an opportunity to purchase unique handcrafted souvenirs to take home.
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Visit to the Ancient City Wall
One of China’s oldest and best-preserved city walls, it was built during the Ming Dynasty in the 14th century, stretching over 13 kilometers and encircling the historic heart of the city. Visitors can walk or cycle along the wall’s wide pathway, enjoying panoramic views of both ancient and modern Xi’an while exploring its imposing gates, watchtowers, and defensive structures.
Meal(s): Breakfast and lunch
Day 8
Xi’an – Luoyang – Zhengzhou
After breakfast and checkout, you will be transferred to Xi’an train station to board your high-speed bullet train to Luoyang Longmen Station.
Upon arrival, a local representative will greet you and accompany you on the next leg of your journey, an exploration of the magnificent Longmen Grottoes, followed by a visit to the legendary Shaolin Temple.
Afterwards, you will continue to your hotel in Zhengzhou for check-in, with the rest of the day at your leisure.
More Moments Activities Included
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Longmen Grottoes Exploration
Discover the awe-inspiring Longmen Grottoes, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of China’s most treasured cultural landmarks. Located near Luoyang, this remarkable complex features thousands of intricate Buddhist statues, carvings, and inscriptions etched into limestone cliffs along the Yi River. Dating back to the Northern Wei and Tang dynasties, the grottoes offer a breathtaking display of ancient Chinese artistry, spiritual devotion, and architectural mastery that continues to captivate visitors from around the world.
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Shaolin Temple Visit
Nestled in the scenic Songshan Mountains, the legendary Shaolin Temple stands as the cradle of Chinese Kung Fu and Zen Buddhism. This sacred site offers a captivating journey into centuries-old martial arts traditions, where ancient philosophy and disciplined practice come to life. Explore the temple’s rich history, witness monks in training, and immerse yourself in the spiritual and cultural legacy that has shaped generations.
Meal(s): Breakfast and lunch
Day 9
Zhengzhou – Yichang – Yangtze River Cruise
After breakfast and check-out, you’ll be transferred to Zhengzhou train station to board a high-speed train bound for Yichang, famously known as “The Gateway to the Three Gorges.”
Upon arrival, a local representative will meet you and assist with your transfer to the pier, where an exciting luxury cruise along the Yangtze River awaits!
Overnight on board the Yangtze River Cruise
Meal(s): Breakfast and dinner
Day 10
Yangtze River Cruise
After breakfast, embark on a fascinating visit to the awe-inspiring Three Gorges Dam at Sandouping, an engineering marvel and a true highlight of the Yangtze. Later this afternoon, unwind on a scenic cruise through the breathtaking Xiling Gorge, where dramatic cliffs and stunning river vistas create an unforgettable experience.
Overnight on board the Yangtze River Cruise
More Moments Activities Included
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Three Gorges Dam Exploration
Explore the largest hydroelectric power station in the world. Discover the remarkable scale of this engineering marvel and its vital role in flood control and energy generation.
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Xiling Gorge Cruising Experience
Marvel at the longest and deepest of the Three Gorges, spanning over 41 miles. As you glide along this iconic stretch of the Yangtze River, take in the towering cliffs and dramatic landscapes that define this natural wonder
Meal(s): Breakfast, lunch and dinner
Day 11
Yangtze River Cruise
After breakfast, continue your journey with a scenic cruise through the majestic Qutang Gorge, famed for its towering cliffs and breathtaking natural beauty.
Later, board smaller riverboats to explore the enchanting Lesser Three Gorges, with an optional tour upgrade offering closer views of the striking rock formations and lush landscapes of the Little Lesser Three Gorges (upgrade to be done locally, and at an extra cost)
Conclude your day with tranquil cruising through the serene and picturesque Wu Gorge, known for its mystical atmosphere and serene beauty.
Overnight on board of the Yangtze River Cruise
More Moments Activities Included
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Scenic cruising through Qutang Gorge
Experience the awe-inspiring beauty of Qutang Gorge, the shortest yet most dramatic of the Three Gorges. As your ship glides through its narrow passage, marvel at the towering cliffs that rise steeply on either side, creating a breathtaking natural spectacle. The rugged landscapes and ever-changing light make this scenic cruise an unforgettable journey through one of China's most iconic river passages.
Meal(s): Breakfast, lunch and dinner
Day 12
Yangtze River Cruise
After breakfast, your Yangtze River adventure continues with a captivating shore excursion to Fengdu Snow Jade Cave. Explore this natural wonder with expert guides who will share fascinating insights into its history and unique geological formations, making for an educational and awe-inspiring experience.
Afterward, you'll be transferred back to the cruise ship to enjoy the rest of the day at leisure.
More Moments Activities Included
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Shore excursion to Fengdu Snow Jade Cave
Fascinating shore excursion to a stunning natural wonder along the Yangtze River. Explore its breathtaking limestone formations and learn about the cave's geological history and cultural significance from expert guides. This captivating adventure offers a unique glimpse into the beauty and mystery of one of China’s most remarkable cave systems.
Meal(s): Breakfast and lunch and dinner
Day 13
Yangtze River Cruise - Chongqing – Hangzhou
After breakfast and disembarking in Chongqing, your driver will take you to the Panda House for an unforgettable visit to these adorable creatures.
Afterwards, your transfer will take you to Chongqing Jiangbei International Airport to catch your flight to Hangzhou.
Upon arrival, collect your luggage and proceed to the exit where a local representative will greet you and assist you with your transfer to your hotel to check in. Rest of the day at leisure.
More Moments Activities Included
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Visit to the Panda House
Offers a heartwarming experience where you can see China’s beloved giant pandas up close. Watch these gentle giants play, eat bamboo, and relax in a habitat designed to mimic their natural environment, making it a must-visit for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
Meal(s): Breakfast
Day 14
Hangzhou - Suzhou
After breakfast and check-out, your tour guide will take you to visit the serene West Lake, renowned for its scenic beauty and historic landmarks. Next, enjoy an authentic oriental tea-tasting experience at the famed Dragon Well Tea Plantation.
Afterward, continue your journey to Suzhou, often called “the Venice of the East.” Upon arrival freshen up and get ready for this afternoon’s adventure, the Suzhou Grand Canal Cruise. Post cruising, return back to your hotel and enjoy the rest of the evening at leisure.
More Moments Activities Included
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Visit to the West Lake
Serene masterpiece of nature and history, is where timeless beauty meets tranquil waters. Surrounded by lush greenery, ancient pagodas, and scenic causeways, this UNESCO World Heritage gem in Hangzhou offers a journey through China’s cultural soul. Whether you’re strolling along its peaceful shores, cruising its shimmering waters, or marveling at its legendary views, West Lake promises a magical escape into a world of natural wonders and poetic charm.
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Tea-tasting experience at the Dragon Well Tea Plantation
Enjoy a serene tea-tasting experience, where you’ll learn about the traditional methods of tea production and sample some of China’s finest green tea. Surrounded by lush landscapes, this immersive experience offers a deep dive into the rich cultural heritage of tea-making, offering a refreshing and flavorful insight into one of China’s most celebrated traditions.
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Grand Canal Cruise
Cruise along the historic Grand Canal and discover the timeless beauty of Suzhou, one of the many cities that flourished along China’s golden waterway. Once a bustling artery of trade and culture, the canal offers a window into the country’s vibrant past. As you glide past ancient stone bridges, charming waterside homes, and traditional teahouses, witness the graceful blend of history and everyday life that still lingers along its banks. This unforgettable journey captures the essence of Suzhou’s heritage, where the echoes of a glorious era come alive with every gentle turn of the water.
Meal(s): Breakfast and lunch
Day 15
Suzhou – Shanghai
After breakfast and check-out, continue your journey with a visit to the Lingering Garden, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, followed by a visit to explore a silk factory to learn about the intricate process of silk production.
Afterward, you will be transferred aboard your comfortable coach to "the Pearl of the Orient," Shanghai! Upon arrival at your hotel, check in and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure.
More Moments Activities Included
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Visit to the Lingering Garden
Masterpiece of classical Chinese garden design, celebrated for its intricate beauty and harmonious blend of nature and architecture. Covering an area of about 23,000 square meters, the garden is known for its serene landscapes, elegant pavilions, meandering pathways, and tranquil ponds.
Designed to evoke a sense of balance and peace, the garden features a variety of architectural elements, such as exquisite rockeries, charming bridges, and delicate lotus-filled ponds, all carefully arranged to create an atmosphere of quiet contemplation.
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Visit to a Silk Factory
This experience offers a fascinating glimpse into the traditional art of silk production. Discover the intricate process of harvesting silkworms, spinning silk threads, and weaving them into luxurious fabrics. Learn about Suzhou's centuries-old silk industry and its role in China’s rich cultural heritage.
Meal(s): Breakfast and lunch
Day 16
Shanghai
After breakfast, meet your tour guide in the hotel lobby for an exciting stroll along the famous Bund, a mile-long promenade by the Huangpu River.
Next, continue your exciting adventure with a visit to the renowned Shanghai Museum, where you’ll explore exquisite collections of Chinese art and history. Then, immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of the City God Temple area, a bustling hub of culture, shopping, and traditional architecture.
More Moments Activities Included
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Stroll on the Bund
Take a leisurely stroll along the iconic Bund, a historic waterfront promenade offering stunning views of the city’s skyline. Lined with colonial-era buildings, this mile-long stretch along the Huangpu River blends old-world charm with modern elegance, making it a perfect spot to soak in the city's vibrant atmosphere.
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Visit to the Shanghai Museum
Offers an immersive journey through China’s rich cultural heritage. Home to an extensive collection of ancient Chinese art, the museum showcases exquisite pottery, calligraphy, jade, and historical relics, offering a glimpse into the country’s 5,000-year history. Its impressive architecture and well-curated exhibits make it one of the top cultural attractions in Shanghai.
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Visit to the City God Temple Area
This vibrant district, home to the City God Temple, is surrounded by bustling markets, ancient architecture, and local shops. Stroll through narrow alleys filled with the aromas of street food, traditional crafts, and the energy of local life, offering a glimpse into the city's rich cultural past.
Meal(s): Breakfast and dinner
Day 17
Shanghai - Guilin
After breakfast and check-out, transfer to Shanghai Pudong International Airport for your flight to magical Guilin, renowned for its breathtaking natural landscapes, including stunning karst mountains, dramatic limestone formations, and the picturesque Li River.
Upon arrival, collect your bags and proceed to exit the luggage hall, where a local representative will greet you with an air Canada Vacations sign and will escort you to your transfer that will take you to your hotel to check-in.
Rest of the day at leisure
Meal(s): Breakfast and lunch
Day 18
Guilin - Yangshou
After breakfast and check-out, your driver will take you to the Guilin Zhujiang Pier (also known as Guilin Li River Pier), where you'll board a comfortable boat for a scenic cruise along the Li River. This unforgettable journey offers one of the finest excursions of your China tour, taking you through stunning landscapes on your way to “heaven on Earth”, Yangshuo!
Lunch will be served onboard as you take in the stunning scenery. You might even catch a glimpse of local fishermen using cormorant birds in a traditional fishing technique, a fascinating sight unique to the region.
Upon arrival at Yangshou, you will be given free time to leisurely stroll West Street. Afterwards, you will be transferred back to your hotel. Rest of the evening at leisure.
More Moments Activities Included
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Li River boat cruise
Set sail on a Li River cruise from Guilin to Yangshuo, gliding through a surreal landscape of majestic karst peaks, serene waters, and charming riverside villages. Sit back, relax, and let nature’s masterpiece unfold before your eyes on this unforgettable journey through one of China’s most iconic scenic wonders.
Meal(s): Breakfast and lunch
Day 19
Yangshou - Guilin
After breakfast and check-out, your journey continues back to Guilin, with an exciting stop at the Longsheng Rice Terraces, located in Longsheng County, Guilin, Guangxi, China. Also known as the Dragon's Backbone Rice Terraces, this awe-inspiring site beautifully showcases the perfect harmony of human ingenuity and the natural beauty of rural China.
Afterwards, continue your drive towards your hotel in Guilin. Check-in and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure
More Moments Activities Included
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Longsheng Rice Terraces excursion
This unforgettable experience, where nature and human ingenuity come together in stunning harmony, offers spectacular views and a glimpse into China’s rich agricultural heritage. Marvel at the cascading rice fields that wind like a dragon’s backbone across the hills—a true masterpiece of rural beauty.
Meal(s): Breakfast and lunch
Day 20
Guilin – Hong Kong
After breakfast and check-out, a local representative will take you to Guilin’s train station for an exciting high-speed train ride to “the Gateway to China”, Hong Kong!
Upon arrival, a local representative will greet you with an Air Canada Vacations sign and will escort you to your transfer that will take you to your hotel to check-in. Rest of the day at leisure.
Meal(s): Breakfast
Day 21
Hong Kong
After breakfast, meet your tour guide at the designated meeting point (details will be provided upon arrival in Hong Kong by your local representative). Your Hong Kong adventure begins with an exciting half-day city tour.
Rest of the day at leisure.
More Moments Activities Included
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Half-day city tour
Begin your day with a ride on the Peak Tram, one of the world’s oldest and most famous funicular railways, offering breathtaking views of Victoria Harbor from Lion’s Point View Pavilion.
Next, explore Old Town Central, starting with a stroll along Pottinger Street, also known as Stone Slabs Street, a historic lane reflecting the district’s rich heritage. Visit Tai Kwun, the former Central Police Station Compound, now a vibrant cultural hub.
Immerse yourself in the serene atmosphere of Man Mo Temple, which has honored the Gods of Literature and War for over 150 years.
Meal(s): Breakfast
Day 22
Hong Kong – Canada
After breakfast and check-out, your transfer will take you to Hong Kong International Airport to catch your flight home to Canada.
Meal(s): Breakfast
Accommodations
Where you'll stay
Superior Accommodation
Location
Hotel
Room details
Bed size(s): 1 double bed or 2 twin beds
Room occupancy: Maximum 2 people (2 adults, or 1 adult and 1 child)
Unless otherwise specified, guests will stay in a standard room at all hotels during the trip.
Important Information
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Departure Dates:
- Frequency: March 25, 2026 – Nov 04, 2026
- Tour operates on Wednesday and Sunday
- Frequency: March 25, 2026 – Nov 04, 2026
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Not included
- Meals outside of the ones mentioned within the itinerary above.
- Transfers for the optional activities, and any other transfer services required outside of the itinerary above.
- Entrance to other landmarks not mentioned in the itinerary.
- Additional activities and excursions
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The More Moments activities/excursions mentioned in the itinerary are all included in the package but may be rescheduled to take place on an earlier or later day, depending on availability and operational day, or cancelled due to weather related conditions.
Optional tours will only be available if min group size requirement is met. It is strongly recommended to book in advance to secure availability.
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- High-speed train from Beijing to Xi’an, from Xi’an to Luoyang, from Zhengzhou to Yichang and from Guilin to Hong Kong
- Flight from Chongqing to Hangzhou
- Boat from Yichang to Chongqing (Yangtze River Cruise)
- Flight from Shanghai to Guilin
- Coach for all transfer from/to airports and sightseeing tours transfers and inter-city service
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- The itinerary above is subject to change without prior notice. The order in which destinations are visited or day excursions occur may change due to operational restrictions, such as weather and accommodation availability.
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Optional activities/excursions can be purchased with the local supplier prior to departure, and are offered, and sold exclusively by them.
For any inquiries regarding these activities/excursions, the contact link can be found in your travel documents delivered between 30 and 14 days prior to departure.