17-Nights China & Japan: Wonders of East Asia from $9,096

Itinerary Details

Day 1: Arrive in Beijing

Transfer: Beijing Capital Airportto Beijing - City Centre

Hotel: Crowne Plaza Beijing Chaoyang U-Town (4 Star Rating)

Crowne Plaza Beijing Chaoyang U-Town is a stylish modern hotel located in the vibrant Chaoyang District, close to shops, dining, and public transport. It offers spacious, comfortable rooms and excellent amenities, including a heated indoor pool, spa, and fitness center. The hotel provides a convenient base for exploring Beijing's top attractions while enjoying premium dining and leisure options.

Begin your city tour at Tian'anmen Square, the historic heart of China and the largest public plaza in the world, known for its role in major national events. Continue to the magnificent Forbidden City (Palace Museum) (closed on Mondays), the iconic imperial palace of the Ming and Qing Dynasties. Built by over 200,000 craftsmen, this vast complex once housed 24 emperors and features 9,999 rooms of ceremonial, administrative, and private spaces.

In the afternoon, explore the scenic Houhai District, with its lakes, traditional courtyard homes, and narrow hutong alleyways. Enjoy a pedicab ride through these historic lanes and visit a local family's home. Continue to the impressive Bell and Drum Towers, nationally protected cultural landmarks that once served as the official timekeepers of Beijing during the Yuan, Ming, and Qing Dynasties.

Meet your guide and driver at your hotel and transfer to the Mutianyu section of the Great Wall, a rugged and less crowded stretch that offers spectacular views as it winds over the surrounding hills. The drive from Beijing takes approximately 2 hours. Upon arrival, take a short cable car ride up to the Wall, where you can explore its ancient watchtowers, walk along the winding stone paths, and enjoy sweeping vistas of the hills and forests. After soaking in the breathtaking scenery, return by cable car to meet your driver, and then stop at a restaurant for a relaxing lunch before heading back to Beijing.

Begin your day at the Temple of Heaven, where locals gather to practice traditional morning exercises such as Tai Chi, creating a peaceful and lively atmosphere. A masterpiece of Ming Dynasty architecture, the temple embodies ancient Chinese beliefs in the harmony between heaven and earth, demonstrated through its refined geometry and engineering. Once a sacred site where emperors prayed for good harvests, it remains one of Beijing's most important cultural landmarks.

Continue to the Summer Palace, Beijing's best-preserved imperial garden. Located along the tranquil shores of Kunming Lake, this expansive retreat features graceful pavilions, temples, and covered corridors set amid beautifully landscaped grounds. Designed as a summer escape for the imperial family, the palace offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and classical Chinese garden design.

Transfer: Beijing - City Centreto Beijing Capital Airport

Transfer: Xi'an Train Station to Xi'an - City Centre

Hotel: Grand Mercure On Renmin Square (4 Star Rating)

The Grand Mercure On Renmin Square is located inside the Ming Dynasty Wall of the ancient city of Xi'an, surrounded by quiet courtyards and elegant gardens, emanating the unique rich historical breath of the famous "cradle of Chinese civilization". 194 guest rooms and suites in spectacular style reflect 50 years of historical soul of the Renmin Building.

Begin your day with a visit to the Terracotta Warriors, one of the most extraordinary archaeological discoveries in the world. These 2,300-year-old life-sized figures were crafted to protect the tomb of China’s first emperor, Qinshihuang, in the afterlife. The site was accidentally uncovered by local farmers in 1974, and today, the warriors remain in their original positions, giving visitors a remarkable glimpse into ancient Chinese military organization, artistry, and funerary practices. You’ll see rows of soldiers, chariots, and horses, each uniquely detailed, reflecting the skill and dedication of the craftsmen who created them over two millennia ago.

After lunch, continue to the Ancient City Wall, one of the most well-preserved city walls in China and among the largest ancient military defense systems in the world. Take a 1-hour bike ride atop the wall, experiencing panoramic views of Xi’an and gaining a sense of its historic scale and grandeur.

Transfer: Xi'an - City Centreto Xi an Xianyang Apt

Transfer: Guilin Airportto Guilin - City Centre

Hotel: Holiday Inn Express Guilin City Center (4 Star Rating)

Holiday Inn Express Guilin City Center is a modern hotel designed for travelers seeking comfort and convenience in the heart of the city. Guests can enjoy well-designed rooms, a breakfast buffet, free Wi-Fi, a fitness room, self-service laundry, and efficient business facilities. With attentive service, a 24-hour front desk, and close proximity to major attractions and public transportation, the hotel offers a relaxed and hassle-free base for discovering Guilin.

Explore the Reed Flute Caves, a renowned scenic spot known for its enchanting display of stalactites, stalagmites, stone columns, and rock formations in vivid shapes and colors, set against picturesque landscapes and rural scenery. Next, visit the stunning Fubo Hill, famously called the "Wonderland on Wave," with its striking peak rising high and its base partially surrounded by water. The hill's name, Fubo (Wave-Curbing) Hill, comes from the river at its eastern edge, which forms a deep pool.

In the morning, transfer to the pier for your Li River Cruise aboard a comfortable double-decker boat. The journey from Guilin to Yangshuo offers a landscape that is nothing short of a natural masterpiece-crystal-clear waters, dramatic limestone peaks, serene farmland, smiling fishermen, and wandering water buffaloes create a scene straight out of a painting.

Relax under the blue sky as your boat glides through this enchanting scenery, a truly unforgettable experience. After approximately four and a half hours, the thousand-year-old town of Yangshuo comes into view. This charming town blends traditional Chinese culture with Western influences. Have some time to wander through the famous West Street, explore the variety of shops and restaurants, and then transfer by road back to your hotel in Guilin.

Transfer: Guilin - City Centre to Guilin Airport

Transfer: Shanghai Pu Dong Aptto Shanghai - Xuhui District

Hotel: Renaissance Shanghai Yu Garden Hotel on the Bund (4 Star Rating)

Renaissance Shanghai Yu Garden Hotel on the Bund is a chic hotel ideally situated near Yu Garden and just steps from the Bund and Xintiandi. Modern rooms offer city views and high-speed internet, while amenities include an indoor pool, fitness center, dining options, and a Club Lounge. Its central location makes it an ideal base for exploring Shanghai's historic sites and vibrant nightlife.

Pick up from hotel, enjoy a amazing Acrobatic Show at ERA Theatre. It hosts one of the best acrobatic shows in town. ERA - Intersection of Time put on in the theater is a multimillion-dollar stunning acrobatic extravaganza, the first of its kind in China, ERA is a multimedia odyssey whose inspiration is a direct result of the combination of traditional Chinese acrobatic arts and modern technology. The highlight of ht show includes Mirror Mirage, Magic Water, Floating Gondola, Music of ERA, Jar Juggling, Wheel of Life, Space Motorcycles. After that, transfer back to hotel.

Start the day to stroll along the Bund, a waterfront area in central, there is dozens of historical buildings, lining the Huangpu River. Then visit the Nanjing Road, enjoy the reputation as China No. 1 commercial center. It was the earliest commercial street in Shanghai since the city opened to the outside world. Continue to the 400-year-old Yu Garden (closed on Monday), Yuyuan Garden is a famous classical garden located in Anren Jie, Shanghai. The garden was finished in 1577 by a government officer of the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644). Outside of the garden is the famous Chen Huang Miao Bazaar-- an area of shops, restaurants and recreation facilities. and after Chinese lunch at local restaurant, continue to the Jade Buddha Temple, it was built to keep two jade Buddha statues which had been brought from Burma by a monk named Huigen. Late afternoon, transfer back to hotel. Evening is free at leisure with dinner on own.

Transfer: Shanghai - Xuhui District to Shanghai Pu Dong Apt

Transfer: Osaka Kansai International Airportto Kyoto - City Centre

Hotel: Hotel Vischio Kyoto (4 Star Rating)

Hotel Vischio Kyoto by Granvia is conveniently located just a short walk from Kyoto Station. The property offers sophisticated, modern rooms with all the essentials including comfortable beds and spacious layouts. The hotel's relaxed ambiance, friendly service, and convenient amenities like a fitness center and restaurant make it a great base for exploring Kyoto.

Begin your journey in the cultural heart of Japan with a visit to Kinkakuji Temple, also known as the Golden Pavilion. This breathtaking Zen temple, covered entirely in brilliant gold leaf, reflects beautifully in the surrounding pond and gardens. No matter the season - Kinkakuji offers a picture-perfect scene that captures the essence of Kyoto's timeless beauty.

Next, step back into the era of the samurai at Nijo Castle, a 17th-century fortress built for the powerful shogun Tokugawa Ieyasu. Wander through its elegant wooden halls, where the famous "nightingale floors" chirp softly underfoot to alert guards of approaching visitors. The castle's intricate wall paintings and beautifully landscaped gardens reflect the refined aesthetics of the Edo period. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Nijo Castle offers a fascinating glimpse into Japan's feudal history.

Continue your exploration at Nishiki Market, affectionately known as "Kyoto's Kitchen." Stretching over five bustling blocks, this lively market is packed with local vendors selling everything from fresh seafood and pickled vegetables to sweets, teas, and handcrafted souvenirs. Savor a few street snacks as you wander - perhaps some yuba (tofu skin), senbei (rice crackers), or freshly grilled skewers - and experience the flavors that define Kyoto's culinary heritage.

End your day in the scenic district of Arashiyama, located on the western edge of the city. Stroll through the famous Bamboo Grove, where towering stalks of bamboo sway gently in the breeze, creating a tranquil, almost otherworldly atmosphere.

Early this morning, take the bullet train from Kyoto to Hiroshima (2 hours). Upon arrival, meet your guide and transfer to Miyajimaguchi for the ferry to Miyajima Island. This enchanting island is home to the Shinto shrine of Itsukushima, famous for its huge bright orange gate (tori) that rises majestically out of the sea. At high tide it is considered to be one of the most beautiful sights in Japan. The size and physical landscape of Miyajima makes it an ideal place for walking, and you can spend some time relaxing on your own here. Return to central Hiroshima and visit the Peace Park and Memorial Museum, illuminating the tragic events of World War II. Drive past the eerie A-Bomb Dome, left standing in a ruinous state after more than 70 years. This evening, return by bullet train to Kyoto.

Today you will have the opportunity to visit a traditional house and experience a classic Japanese artform. Get dressed in a beautiful casual kimono before participating in an authentic tea ceremony. Learn about tea history, various types of tea and tea ceremony etiquette from a professional instructor. You will see how every movement has a meaning and understand what the act of serving tea to guests means in Japan.

A celebrated site, the world - famous Fushimi Inari Shrine sees millions of visitors every year. Thousands of bright red torii gates line the mountain trail of Fushimi Inari Shrine. Walking through the truly unique vermillion gate pathway is a visually stunning experience. Inari is the Japanese God of rice harvest. It is also believed to bless businesses with an abundance of fortunes, hence its popularity with merchants. The shrine complex spans over the entire Mt. Inari (233m/765ft).

On your tour, you will visit the main shrine hall. Then, you will proceed through the famed vermillion gate tunnel. Next, visit a temple that once caught fire and was reconstructed a century after it was first constructed. At 120 meters, Sanjusangendo is the longest wooden structure in Japan. Inside, you will find 1001 statues of Kannon, the Buddhist saint of Mercy.

Then stop at a celebrated UNESCO site, Kiyomizu-dera Temple, which is older than Kyoto as the capital of Japan. Built for Kannon, the Buddhist saint of mercy, this temple is said to grant wishes of all kinds - and especially so for women praying for safe childbirth. The temple is famous for its wooden platform stage, the Kiyomizu Butai. The massive stage was constructed out of wood and joints - no nails. At four stories high, it was once a popular wish-making spot.

Hotel: Shiba Park Hotel (3 Star Rating)

Welcome to the best in Japanese hospitality, the Shiba Park Hotel. It is the tradition of this hotel to serve the local and overseas guests alike, with their well-trained, friendly and helpful staff. They offer many services regardless of whether you are travelling on business or pleasure.

Tucked beneath the tracks in central Tokyo, Yurakucho is home to one of the city's most atmospheric dining enclaves - a maze of lantern-lit alleyways and long-standing izakaya and restaurants hidden beneath the rumble of passing trains. Tonight is your chance to explore Tokyo's vibrant food scene where the city's working crowd gathers after dark for good food, flowing drinks, and lively conversation. Enjoy a relaxed evening moving between handpicked local spots where the air is filled with the hum of Tokyoites unwinding. Each stop introduces a different flavour of Tokyo's casual dining culture and is a window into a side of Tokyo often missed - unpolished, energetic, and full of character.

Take a day tour of fascinating Tokyo. First up is Asakusa, Tokyo's old town where you can soak in the atmosphere of old Tokyo. Visit Sensoji, Tokyo's oldest temple and wander down Nakamise, a shopping street that has been providing temple visitors with a variety of traditional, local snacks and tourist souvenirs for centuries.

Next, visit Hamarikyu garden, an Edo Period Japanese garden surrounded by the Shiodome district's futuristic skyscrapers, a great example of how Japan is the land of contrasts. Later visit Meiji Shrine, a shrine dedicated to the deified spirit of Emperor Meiji and a popular place for traditional Japanese weddings. Finish the day at Shibuya's famous 5-way 'scramble crossing'.

Experience the natural beauty of Japan on this unforgettable full-day adventure to Mt. Fuji and Hakone. Travel by coach to Japan's tallest and most revered mountain, the iconic Mt. Fuji, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Ascend to the 5th Station (weather permitting), perched 2,300 meters (7,546 feet) above sea level, where breathtaking panoramic views offer an unforgettable perspective of the surrounding landscape and, on clear days, stretch above the clouds. After enjoying a delicious Japanese lunch, continue into the picturesque Hakone region and ride the Hakone Ropeway to Owakudani, a dramatic volcanic valley where steam rises from active vents, showcasing the powerful forces beneath the earth's surface. Be sure to try one of the area's famous black eggs, a local specialty said to bring seven extra years of good luck and long life! From Owakudani, continue to Lake Ashi and enjoy a scenic high-speed cruise across its tranquil waters, taking in panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and, on clear days, majestic Mt. Fuji. End your unforgettable day with a ride back to Tokyo aboard Japan's world-famous Shinkansen bullet train.

Transfer: Tokyo - Minato & Bay to Tokyo Haneda Apt