Crossing Chine
From the Forbidden City to Tibetan Monasteries, a Journey Through 5000 Years of Chinese History
Duration
18 days
From
€2,440/pers.
Ideal seasons
Mar, Apr, May, Sep, Oct, Nov
Style
Guided tour
Comfort
Charm & Character
Travelers
Couple, Solo, With friends, senior
The spirit of travel
Let yourself be carried away by a great journey through Chine, designed for a first complete and balanced discovery of the country. From Beijing to Shanghai, passing through Xi'an and the landscapes of Yunnan, this circuit takes you between major sites, ancient cities, local cultures and more preserved stages. You will walk on the Great Wall, discover the Terracotta Army of Xi'an and stroll through the classical gardens and lively streets of major metropolises. Further south, Yunnan reveals wilder landscapes, between terraced rice fields, ethnic villages and mist-wrapped mountains. A rich and fluid itinerary to discover the multiple faces of Chine, accompanied by English-speaking guides and in a comfortable setting. Each stage has been designed to offer a fair balance between cultural visits, time for free exploration and travel comfort. This circuit is an ideal gateway for those who wish to understand Chine in all its diversity, without losing any of its authenticity.
The stages of your journey
Highlights
Day-by-day itinerary
Departure from Paris CDG on a flight to Beijing
Your journey to Chine begins with a departure from Paris Charles-de-Gaulle at 20:20 on flight CA944 heading to Beijing
This first stage marks the beginning of your circuit in Chine. You enjoy a dinner and spend the night on board before your arrival.
Welcome to Beijing!
You arrive in Beijing at 11:25 am, where your guide and driver will welcome you before your transfer to the SSAW Garden hotel. After checking in, your first day in Chine continues with initial walks around the hotel, notably towards the Confucius Temple and/or the Lama Temple, depending on your arrival time at the hotel.
For your first evening in Beijing, dinner is scheduled for around 6 pm, to allow you to rest without going to bed too late and to start the rest of your trip refreshed the next morning.
Imperial Beijing
This morning, you begin your discovery of Beijing with a stroll through Tiananmen Square, the "Gate of Heavenly Peace". You continue with a visit to the Forbidden City, the former residence of Chinese emperors and a major center of political power.
As you exit, you climb higher with a walk up Coal Hill, which peaks at 108 meters, offering you a 360-degree view over Beijing.
In the afternoon, you discover the Temple of Heaven, located in the heart of the vast Tiantan Park. Its triple-tiered rotunda beautifully illustrates Ming architecture.
You spend the night at the SSAW Garden hotel.
As an option (€40 per person), you can attend an evening Chinese acrobatics show.
Great Wall and Summer Palace
Pékin → Grande Muraille À Mutianyu
You are leaving this morning for the Great Wall at Mutianyu, built over 6,700 km to protect the Middle Kingdom from invasions from the North and inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List. The ascent is planned by cable car, followed by a descent on foot, with the option to descend by toboggan, to be paid on site.
Grande Muraille À Mutianyu → Pékin
After lunch, return to Beijing to visit the Summer Palace, then take a stroll through its vast park along Kunming Lake.
In the evening, you share a dinner of Peking duck, a specialty of Beijing.
Night at the SSAW Garden hotel.
From Beijing to Xi'an
You are transferred to the railway station in Beijing to board the high-speed train G55 (9:55 AM-2:06 PM) heading to Xian.
A takeaway lunch is provided during the journey. Upon arrival, you meet your new English-speaking guide before heading into the city.
You then discover the Wild Goose Pagoda Park, built to house the sutras brought from India by the monk Yijing. The day continues with an introduction to Chinese calligraphy in a traditional painting gallery, where you learn to write your names in Mandarin.
In the evening, you taste one of the great local specialties: a dumpling banquet. You spend the night at the Yunheyebo 4* hotel, located near the southern walls of the city, not far from the Bell Tower and the Drum Tower, an area where you can stroll freely after dinner.
Terracotta Army and Muslim Quarter
Mausolée De L'Empereur Qin Shi Huang → Xian
In the morning, you set out to discover the famous Terracotta Army, guardian of the tomb of Chine's first emperor, Qin Shi Huangdi. You admire the thousands of life-size warriors and horses, lined up in battle formation. @arm
For lunch on site, you taste the famous Biangbiang Mian noodles as well as the meat-filled steamed bun, the Roujiamo. You are then invited to a tasting of different types of tea, accompanied by a discovery of the tea ceremony.
Back in the city center, you enjoy a stroll through the Muslim Quarter of Xi'an before visiting the Great Mosque.
Dinner in town, then overnight at the Yunheyebo 4* hotel.
Welcome to Lijiang!
You are transferred to Xi'an airport for your direct flight to Lijiang, in the north of Yunnan.
Upon arrival, transfer to the Fine Art Panorama hotel, located in the heart of Lijiang's old town.
The rest of the day is devoted to discovering the picturesque alleys of the old town, up to the Black Dragon Pool Park and its museum. With the mountains in the background reflected in the clear waters, this walk offers a lovely first glimpse of Lijiang.
Dinner, then night at Panorama Art hotel.
In the evening, you also discover a different atmosphere in Lijiang, where the city becomes more festive.
Naxi Culture and Lijiang Valley
You take the road through the heart of the Lijiang valley, with beautiful views of the snow-capped peaks of the Jade Dragon mountain range. You then head to the Naxi village of Baisha, where you discover centuries-old frescoes of Buddhist art in the residence of the former ruling family of the Naxi people, the Mu.
The visit continues with the silk embroidery school, a place dedicated to the empowerment of young Naxi girls. You then find a charming small cultural center for an introduction to Dongba culture, marked by animist beliefs and a pictogram writing system still used today.
In the afternoon, a rest period allows you to enjoy your hotel or do some shopping in the heart of the old town. Depending on your preferences, your guide can also offer you a walk with beautiful panoramic views over the valley, from the Jingang Haimu cave to the Wenfeng temple, through a pine forest.
Towards Shangri-La and the Tiger Leaping Gorge - 3200m altitude
You head towards the Tibetan region of Shangri-La.
After lunch, you stop at the must-see Tiger Leaping Gorge, among the deepest in the world. At the bottom of this spectacular site flows the Yangtze River, particularly powerful at this location, squeezed between Haba Mountain, whose summit reaches 5,400 meters, and Jade Dragon Mountain, which rises to 5,600 meters.
The road then continues through beautiful mountain landscapes as you climb in altitude. Upon arrival in Shangri-La, you check in at the Niancang Hotel, located in the old town.
Early in the evening, you take time to stroll through the alleyways.
If you wish, you can also climb to the small Da Gui Shang temple, facing a large Tibetan prayer wheel overlooking the city.
Dinner of Tibetan specialties, then night in Shangri-La.
Monasteries and Lake in Shangri-La
After your breakfast, you set off for a day of discoveries in Shangri-La and its region. In the morning, you visit Songtsanlin, the largest Tibetan monastery in Yunnan.
In the afternoon, you discover the Tibetan countryside, then the Shengen temple, founded in the 11th century and affiliated with the White Buddhism movement. In this peaceful and little-visited setting, the visit invites you to a quieter moment. You then continue with a walk along the shores of Napa Lake, amid vast pastures.
Back in Shangri-La, the evening gives you time to stroll through the old town and watch, or even participate in, the spontaneous dances of the locals in the square.
Dinner, then overnight at Niancang Hotel.
Welcome to Shaxi! - 2050m altitude
You take the road in the morning towards the Shaxi valley. The day begins with a walk at the Shibaoshan site, known for its Buddhist sculptures carved into the rock and its temples with a peaceful atmosphere. The visit includes approximately 500 steps to climb over the entire route, where it is not uncommon to encounter free-roaming monkeys.
You are then transferred to your charming Aoding hotel, located in the heart of the old town of Shaxi.
Dinner on site.
From Shaxi to Xizhou via Dali
You discover the authentic village of Shaxi, a former major commercial exchange center on the tea and horse caravan route. You then head towards the old town of Dali, known for its dynamic, youthful and cheerful atmosphere, and which notably houses an old Catholic church.
The day continues until you reach your charming hotel Jiyisi Xiangju Art, located in a quiet spot in the Bai village of Xizhou, in the countryside and not far from Erhai Lake. Dinner.
Xizhou Market and Weishan Getaway
You start the day with a stroll at the Xizhou market, before heading towards the preserved region of Weishan.
Along the way, stop at the Hui village of Donglinghua, belonging to the Muslim minority, to discover in particular its mosque as well as its museum, which offers a beautiful view of the city rooftops.
Still preserved from tourism, Weishan captivates with its local atmosphere and the hospitality of its inhabitants. You stroll through the streets of the old town discovering wooden houses and small shops. Lunch is planned at a local cuisine restaurant.
In the afternoon, you set out to discover the Weibaoshan mountain, situated at 2,500 meters altitude. Counted among the thirteen sacred Taoist mountains of Chine, this peaceful site invites you to stroll among small temples and the discreet presence of Taoist monks. Late in the afternoon, return to the Dali valley.
Dinner, then night at the Jiyisi Xiangju Art hotel.
Stone Forest and arrival in Kunming - 1900m altitude
You join the Dali train station to take the train towards Shilin, a city known for its famous Stone Forest.
Dali → Forêt De Pierre De Shilin
This vast karst landscape site spans nearly 500 km². On-site, we offer you a leisurely walk of about two hours, between rocky peaks and narrower passages, taking time to move away from the groups that mostly remain near the park entrance.
Forêt De Pierre De Shilin → Kunming
Walk in Kunming before Shanghai
You discover Kunming on foot, including a stroll through the Emerald Lake district, a favorite walking spot for locals. Alone, as a couple, with friends or family, they gather there to wander, sing, dance or play music from morning to evening, especially on weekends. A wonderful way to experience Chine, its inhabitants and their culture through simple and friendly scenes of daily life.
You then continue to the Yuantong temple, then towards the more modern city center, also passing through the flower and bird market district.
In the afternoon, transfer to Kunming airport for your CA 8538 flight to Shanghai Pudong, departing at 19:40 and arriving at 22:55.
Upon arrival, you will be greeted by your driver and then transferred to your hotel. Night at the SSAW Narada Boutique Yu Garden 4* hotel.
Shanghai, Between History and Modernity
Your day begins at 9am with a visit to the old French concession. Established in 1862 and nicknamed the Paris of the East, it is distinguished by its art deco buildings, its many tourist sites and its ever-present activity.
You continue with a stroll through the old town of Shanghai, a great way to experience daily life in Chine before modernization. The visit then continues along the Bund, which extends over 1.6 km along the Huangpu River. Formerly called "Boulevard of the Revolution", this district preserves the imprint of old Shanghai.
You then cross to the other side of the Huangpu, to Pudong, to discover Lujiazui, the city's financial and commercial center, known in particular for its skyscrapers.
Return to the hotel at the end of the day, then overnight at SSAW Garden.
Last Moments in Shanghai
You have free time today to discover Shanghai at your own pace, without a guide or driver. A last opportunity to appreciate the atmosphere of this world-class city according to your preferences.
At 5:30 PM, a car awaits you at your hotel for your transfer to Shanghai Hongqiao airport, from where you will board flight CA1510 scheduled for 9:30 PM for your return.
Price per person
Indicative price per person, based on double room. Each trip is customized according to your preferences.
This trip can be tailored to your preferences
This itinerary provides an excellent foundation for discovery, but it can be fully customized. Our local advisors build each trip tailored to your budget, dates and preferences.
Not included
- Flights Paris-Beijing, Kunming-Shanghai and Shanghai-Paris, mentioned separately
- The show in Beijing, offered as an optional activity
- Tips for Guides and Drivers
- Single room supplement if you travel alone (€590, our cost price)
- Personal expenses
Included
- Accommodation in charming hotels, with breakfasts served on-site every day
- English-speaking guide accompaniment during the tour, in Beijing, Xi'an, in Yunnan and in Shanghai for one day
- All transportation in private vehicle throughout the trip
- The fast train Beijing-Xi'an and Dali-Kunming in second class, as well as the flight from Xi'an to Lijiang
- Entrance tickets for all visits, activities mentioned in the program as well as for the show in Kunming
- Full board in good local restaurants, with drinks included: water, tea and soft drinks
- Payment by bank card in France, to allow you to benefit from associated travel insurance
- Our travel agency guarantees, including professional liability insurance and deposit fund guarantee
- The advice of our experts in France and Chine, as well as the assistance of our own English-speaking agency in Kunming
Practical Information
Registration is considered firm and final after payment of a deposit of 30% of the total price and acceptance of the specific terms of sale.
The balance must be paid no later than 45 days before the departure date.
See our specific terms of sale for full details.
In the event of cancellation by the traveller, the following fees apply:
- Plus de 60 jours avant le départ : 40 % du prix total (acompte retenu)
- Entre 60 et 30 jours avant le départ : 50 % du prix total
- Moins de 30 jours avant le départ : 100 % du prix total
We strongly recommend taking out cancellation insurance. See our specific terms of sale for full details.
The information below applies to travelers who are nationals of the European Economic Area (EEA), Switzerland, and Canada traveling to China for tourism purposes. Since entry rules may change, we recommend verifying information with official authorities before your departure.
Passport
To enter China, your passport must be valid for at least six months after your entry date and contain at least two blank pages for immigration stamps.
The document must be in good condition (no damaged, torn, or altered pages).
Tourist stay without visa
China has extended its unilateral visa exemption program to numerous countries. Nationals of most European Economic Area countries, as well as Switzerland, benefit from a visa exemption for tourist stays. Canadian nationals are also eligible for this exemption following the recent expansion of the program.
Currently, this exemption allows a stay of up to 15 days upon entry to the territory, for transit or tourism purposes. The exact duration and conditions may vary depending on nationality; it is advisable to verify the provisions applicable to your passport before departure.
Authorities may also request:
an outbound ticket (return or onward flight),
proof of accommodation booking for the duration of your stay,
proof of sufficient financial resources.
Tourist visa (type L)
For travelers not eligible for visa exemption, or wishing to stay for a longer period, you must obtain a type L tourist visa from the competent Chinese embassy or consulate before departure.
The application file generally includes:
the completed visa application form,
a recent identity photograph meeting requirements,
the valid original passport,
proof of flight and accommodation booking,
any document evidencing sufficient financial resources.
Processing times may vary; it is recommended to submit your application several weeks before departure.
Entry registration card
Upon arrival in Chinese territory, foreign travelers must complete an entry registration card provided on board the aircraft or available at border posts. This document must be presented to immigration services when passing through passport control.
Furthermore, any foreigner staying in China must register with local authorities within 24 hours of arrival:
at a hotel, registration is completed automatically by the establishment,
if staying with a private individual, the traveler must visit the local police station to complete this registration.
Health and vaccinations
No vaccines are mandatory to enter China for travelers from the EEA, Switzerland, or Canada. However, certain vaccinations are recommended depending on the regions visited and length of stay:
hepatitis A and B,
typhoid,
Japanese encephalitis (for stays in rural areas),
rabies (for extended or adventure stays).
It is advisable to consult a doctor or international vaccination center at least four to six weeks before departure.
Traveling with children
Minors must hold their own valid passport covering the duration of the stay.
In certain European countries, when a minor travels without one of their parents, an exit authorization may be required according to the regulations of their country of residence.
Other nationalities
Entry conditions may vary depending on nationality. Affected travelers should inquire at the Chinese embassy or consulate of their country of residence.
To participate in our trips, it is strongly recommended to have evacuation assistance and foreign medical expenses coverage.
Your local agency encourages you to review the specific policy developed with our partner CHAPKA ASSURANCES and AXA ASSISTANCE.
To subscribe to insurance, learn about coverage and rates, follow the link below.
CAP EXPLORER: The complete insurance solution designed for a worry-free trip!
Choose the plan that suits you best:
Explorer'Multirisque
Explorer'Annulation
Explorer'Assistance
Explorer'Complémentaire Carte Bancaire
Specific to our trips, we strongly recommend subscribing to one of these plans.
If you choose to subscribe to one of these formulas, the detailed policy outlining all coverage and claims procedures is available on the insurer's website.
Your local agency will be aware of it, but only the participant is responsible for complying with the claims declaration procedures. The participant must therefore keep this policy with them throughout their trip.
Chapka — Cap Explorer
Our insurance partnerTravel with peace of mind with our partner Chapka. Cancellation, repatriation, medical expenses, baggage… All the coverage for a worry-free trip.
Travel with peace of mind — I'll handle the insuranceFrequently asked questions
Visitors benefit from visa exemption for tourist stays, provided they hold a valid passport for at least 6 months after entry. Beyond exemption periods, a standard tourist visa can be obtained from the consulate. Conditions change regularly: check with your country's consular authorities for the rules applicable to your nationality before departure.
Go to the My Trips section to find all your projects.
You can send a message to your host directly from the Tea Lounge.
For a tailor-made quality trip, budget between 160 and 260 euros per day and per person, including accommodation, meals, internal transport and English-speaking guide. International flights (700-1100 euros return) are additional. Chinese high-speed trains are an experience in their own right.
Your documents are accessible in the Documents tab of your trip.
Absolutely. We adapt each itinerary to suit our travelers' profiles. For families, we prioritize relaxed pacing, family-friendly accommodations, engaging and educational activities, and comfortable private transfers. Our local English-speaking guides know how to captivate children with age-appropriate anecdotes.
It's simple. You exchange with our local team to define your wishes, budget and dates. You receive a detailed itinerary proposal within 48 hours. You refine every detail together until it's perfect. You confirm and travel with peace of mind. Your local agency remains available 7 days a week throughout your trip.
In case of emergency, contact your local agency immediately.
Payment is generally made in two installments.
Our agency is part of the Nomadays network, registered in France. You benefit from APST (Association Professionnelle de Solidarité du Tourisme) coverage that protects 100% of your funds. Secure payment, repatriation insurance included, and English-speaking assistance 24/7 on the ground throughout your stay.
Let's talk about your adventure — Imperial North
Explorer of a Plural China, based in Kunming, Yunnan
China impresses with its vastness, but it's often the details that leave the deepest mark: a forgotten village, an encounter, a market, a light over the mountains of Yunnan.
— Paul
