17-day Hong Kong to Beijing Tour

Today marks the beginning of your thrilling China backpacking adventure! Upon your arrival in vibrant Hong Kong, you'll gather with your group and Adventure Leader in the mid-afternoon for a comprehensive trip briefing, where you'll learn all about the exciting experiences awaiting you in the upcoming weeks.

Following the briefing, we'll treat you to a breathtaking view of Hong Kong by heading up Victoria Peak to catch the sunset over the city skyline. Afterwards, we'll make our way to Tsim Sha Tsui, where you'll have the opportunity to witness the captivating 'Symphony of Light' show from the Avenue of Stars. And if you've worked up an appetite after a busy day, fret not! Your Adventure Leader will be there to guide you through the bustling Temple Street Night Market, ensuring you find the perfect spot for a late-night dinner.

Bright and early this morning, we'll be up and ready to make our way to the train station. Our destination? Guilin, via the bullet train. Once we arrive in Guilin, a bus will take us to your hostel in Yangshuo, where we expect to arrive by early evening. If you're feeling adventurous, why not explore Yangshuo and sample some of the local delicacies for your first taste of the region?

Today is your free day in Yangshuo, giving you the freedom to make the most of your time here. You can also choose from several exciting optional activities:

Try your hand at cooking traditional Chinese dishes at a friendly culinary institute.
Enjoy a scenic kayaking adventure along the Li River, surrounded by stunning mountains.
Experience the relaxing benefits of traditional Chinese therapies, such as Hot Cupping.

Your day begins with an unmissable bike ride through the local area, followed by a leisurely bamboo raft cruise down the Yulong River. If you're bringing your camera (and you should), make sure it's waterproof!

Later, you can opt to visit the Moon Hill complex, which offers mud baths and hot springs for a unique and relaxing experience. In the evening, consider joining your fellow travelers for a night of fun in the local area.

This morning, seize the opportunity to try rock climbing in the stunning landscape of Yangshuo's limestone peaks. It's a chance to conquer these natural wonders and enjoy breathtaking views.

In the afternoon, join your Adventure Leader for a genuine look into rural life in China. Head to a local village to gain insights into farm life in the Yangshuo region.

Say goodbye to your Adventure Leader in Yangshuo as you embark on your journey to Chengdu. Travel across the country by train, and upon arrival in Chengdu, you'll be greeted by your new Adventure Leader and escorted to your hostel for check-in.

Today offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience. You'll visit the Giant Panda Breeding and Research Center in Chengdu, where you can learn about the center's mission to breed and reintroduce pandas. While cuddling pandas isn't on the agenda, you'll have the chance to get up close to these incredible creatures and learn about their conservation.

Following this delightful encounter, it's time to enhance your Chinese language skills. Your Adventure Leader will guide you through a Mandarin lesson, equipping you with essential phrases to make the most of your time in China.

In the evening, consider attending a traditional Sichuan opera show to immerse yourself in China's rich cultural heritage.

Today is yours to explore independently, or you can choose to join optional activities. You have the opportunity to visit Leshan, where you'll witness the world's largest stone Buddha carved into the side of Mt. Lingyun. This colossal statue, over 1,300 years old, is considered one of the tallest pre-modern statues and an ancient wonder of the world.

In the evening, satisfy your culinary curiosity with a sampling of the famous Sichuan Hot Pot, if you dare. Afterward, Chengdu awaits your exploration.

You can start your morning at your own pace, and if you're feeling adventurous, visit a local rehabilitation center that specializes in children with autism.

In the early afternoon, take a final look at Chengdu with a visit to Jinli & Chengdu People's Park, where you can explore scenic spots like the Gold Water Stream, Goldfish Island, and the Potted Landscape Garden. Savor tea by the artificial lake and enjoy exhibitions and performances on the Rockery Square.

In the evening, prepare to journey to Xi'an, the next stop on your Hong Kong to Beijing tour. Upon arrival, meet your new Adventure Leader and head to your hostel for some well-deserved rest.

Spend your morning as you see fit, with your Adventure Leader available for recommendations. You might choose to explore nearby museums, temples, or indulge in some retail therapy.

In the afternoon, consider opting for a bike ride on the city walls, dating back to the Ming Dynasty. Later, explore the Bell-Drum Towers and the Muslim Quarter to immerse yourself in the history of the Silk Road and savor local street food.

This morning, prepare for a visit to one of China's most iconic attractions - the Terracotta Warriors. The Terracotta Army in Xi'an is a vast collection of life-size terracotta sculptures arranged in battle formations, representing the imperial guard troops of Emperor Qin Shi Huang (259 – 210BC), the first emperor of China's first unified dynasty. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a must-see for every traveler in Xi'an.

In the evening, you have the option to enjoy the music and light fountain show that takes place on the North Square of the Big Wild Goose Pagoda in the Qujiang District.

Today, you'll depart for your next destination - Dengfeng, located just outside Shaolin. Upon arrival, you'll have the option to join your group for a kung-fu lesson and demonstration in the very region where this ancient martial art began.

After dinner, it's time for your second Mandarin lesson, building upon the language skills you've learned so far.

For the early risers, there's an exciting opportunity to visit the world-famous Shaolin Temple - the birthplace of kung-fu. From there, you can embark on a hike up to the Dharma Cave, a spiritual spot revered by Buddhist pilgrims. Your ascent will reward you with breathtaking views of local shrines, temples, and the surrounding region.

Alternatively, if martial arts aren't your thing, you can opt to visit the Longmen Grottoes, a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring an incredible 100,000 carved Buddhas.

Following your explorations, you'll have the choice to return for a late lunch at the guesthouse, and your evening is free to explore the area. However, remember there's an early start ahead!

This morning, you'll rise before dawn to catch a bullet train bound for your final destination, Beijing. Upon your mid-morning arrival, you'll transfer directly to one of the tour's most incredible experiences - the Great Wall of China. Before embarking on your hike, you'll stop for lunch at a local farm to fuel up for your adventure. In the mid-afternoon, you'll hike on secluded and unrestored parts of the Great Wall. Here, you'll set up camp to watch the sunset from atop one of the world's wonders.

Please note that, depending on the time of year, due to cold weather before the end of April and after the end of September, you may stay in a guesthouse near the Great Wall instead of camping.

Get ready to wake up early and witness the magnificent sunrise over the Great Wall of China. After taking in this breathtaking view, you'll pack up and return to Beijing, where you'll have the opportunity to explore the city. Join a walk through Tiananmen Square, visit the Forbidden City, and explore Jingshan Park.

In the evening, consider attending an acrobatics show, featuring amazing circus-like performances by young talents recruited from all over China.

And if you've worked up an appetite, now is your chance to indulge in Beijing's signature dish - Peking duck!

Today is a free day for you to explore at your own pace. You'll have the option to visit the fake goods markets for some shopping, as well as the nearby Temple of Heaven.

In the afternoon, venture to the Nanluo district, one of Beijing's best-preserved historical areas known for its hutongs, siheyuan courtyards, bars, cafes, and handicraft shops.

Enjoy a free morning to take in any last-minute sights in Beijing before your Hong Kong to Beijing tour comes to a close. In the afternoon, bid farewell to your fellow travelers and prepare for your journey back home. It's the end of an incredible adventure through China!