At the Ends of Chine
From the Forbidden City to Dong Villages, a journey to the heart of Chinese diversity
Duration
16 days
From
€2,100/pers.
Ideal seasons
Mar, Apr, May, Sep, Oct, Nov
Style
Guided tour
Comfort
classique
Travelers
Couple, Family, senior, groupe
The spirit of travel
Chine, a world apart and multicultural!
During this tour, we will have the opportunity to explore Beijing (Beijing), the capital, where several millennia of history blend with breathtaking modernity. We will discover the country's extraordinary architectural and cultural heritage, from imperial palaces to traditional alleyways that still bear witness today to the ancestral Pekinese way of life.
We will also spend a few days in Xi'an after admiring the Great Wall of Chine, this emblematic moment that winds through the mountains of the North and a trove of historical treasures, including the famous Terracotta Army, a true archaeological testimony to the power of Emperor Qin Shi Huangdi.
Before exploring small villages in Yangshuo, nestled in the heart of karst landscapes unique in the world, we will discover Guilin, Zhaoxing and Ping'an, where ethnic traditions and terraced rice fields compose a striking portrait of rural and authentic Chine.
The stages of your journey
Highlights
Day-by-day itinerary
Welcome upon your arrival and visit to the Summer Palace
Upon arrival at Beijing airport at 12:25pm, we are welcomed by our English-speaking guide and driver. We are then taken directly to the hotel to drop off our luggage.
After a lunch break and some rest, we set off to discover a typical neighborhood in the famous hutongs along Houhai Lake, (one of the three lakes that form Shichahai).
This is a collection of small alleyways and narrow passages unique to Beijing where you can discover small shops, bars and restaurants today.
Our walk along the lake leads to Beihai Park, one of the best preserved imperial gardens in the country and also one of the oldest and largest.
At the end of the day we will take a walk in the very lively Wangfujing shopping street..
Visit to the Forbidden City
We discover the Summer Palace, the most important and best-preserved royal park in Chine. The estate with its many temples, gardens, lake and galleries is a model for Chinese horticulture and landscape design.
At the top of Longevity Hill, you will discover the Pavilion of Buddhist Incense, and you will have a magnificent panorama of the entire park, including the Kunming Lake.
Visit the Forbidden City of Beijing, one of the country's emblems, overlooking the most visited square in the World, Tian An Men square. A large complex composed of different palaces and apartments, these buildings were constructed during the Ming dynasty in the 15th century. 72 hectares will welcome you for an unparalleled visit to the heart of power of ancient dynasties. On site we will see many imperial treasures, including Chinese works of art such as paintings, bronzes, ceramics and other exceptional creations.
At dinner, we will have the privilege of tasting a Beijing specialty: lacquered duck.
On the Great Wall of Chine
In the morning, we take the road to what is surely the most symbolic monument in Chine, the Great Wall! We head to the Mutianyu section. Less crowded than the Badaling site, the Mutianyu section with its 22 watchtowers is the longest to have been entirely restored. It is also one of the easiest to walk through, and you can stroll along the fortifications that wind through the superb landscapes of the Northern China Mountains, thus discovering the architectural jewel of medieval Chine.
We take the cable car for the ascent. That said, the descent is planned on foot, but the most daring among us can descend by toboggan.
Back in Beijing, we pass by the Olympic Stadium to discover the water cube and the bird's nest designed by John Pauline and Herzoge. The interior of the site is open for visits.
Tai Chi Chuan Initiation and Visit to the Temple of Heaven
The day will begin with an initiation into a Chinese martial art inspired by Taoism: Tai Chi Quan.
Visit of the Temple of Heaven, one of the symbols of the Chinese capital, and an example of Chinese religious art. This monument symbolizes the traditional Chinese belief that the earth is square and the sky is round. Admire its beautiful round architecture, as well as its triple roof covered with blue glazed tiles, and take time to stroll through the park's paths where many Beijingers gather every day to dance or play Jianzi.
Transfer to Pékin railway station to catch a high-speed train to Xi'an.
Once we arrive safely, we will be welcomed by our new English-speaking guide who will take us to our charming hotel, so we can settle in and rest.
The Terracotta Army Tour
To start the day calmly, we take a walk on the city walls, considered one of the first historic monuments of the city. We discover the lovely little gardens located at the foot of the gates and enjoy the panoramic view over the roofs of the old city.
Then, we visit another spectacular site, which will certainly fascinate us: the terracotta army. Dating from 246 BC, this army has watched over the tomb of Emperor Qin Shi Huang for two millennia. These thousands of life-size soldiers, accompanied by their horses and chariots, cover an impressive area. We take time to discover this mausoleum, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Before returning to the hotel, we will treat ourselves to a lovely walk to the Bell Tower and Drum Tower.
In the morning, we discover the Muslim Quarter of Xi'an and visit the great mosque founded in the eighth century.
For dinner, a "dumpling banquet" awaits us.
The Great Wild Goose Pagoda
This morning, visit of the second major attraction of the city: the Great Wild Goose Pagoda. This historic building dating from the 7th century was built under the Tang dynasty in tribute to Empress Wende. Standing 64 meters high, the pagoda rises above the city, offering us a panoramic view from its summit.
We conclude our tour of Xi'an, with a visit to the Museum of the History of Shaanxi Province. Considered the pearl of ancient dynasties and the treasure of Chine, this museum is surely one of the most beautiful museums in the country. It contains a multitude of cultural and archaeological treasures, which trace the history of the country and its civilization.
Our driver drops us at Xi'an airport to catch a flight to Guilin.
Our new English-speaking guide and driver welcome us, and take us to our hotel for the day.
The "Dongs"
Early departure for Congjiang by the 9:52 AM train. Expected arrival at 10:55 AM.
Congjiang → Village de Zhaoxing
Next, we head to Zhaoxing. Crossed by small canals and streams, the village of Zhaoxing is steeped in authenticity. Once there, we can meet the Dongs (an ethnic group of Chine) who live there.
The Dong people have built their reputation through their traditional constructions and architectures made essentially of wood.
In the afternoon, we set off to discover these beautiful works, namely: the Dong Opera theaters, the 5 Drum Towers, and the Wind and Rain Bridges. As we wander through the streets, we can meet various basket weavers, weavers, and other craftspeople.
Walk in the surrounding area
In the morning, we set off on a hiking excursion from Tang'an village towards Zhaoxing (plan for approximately 1 hour 30 minutes of downhill walking). That said, those who wish can take the shuttle to return. An opportunity to admire an incredible panorama overlooking the entire valley. Along the way, we may have the chance to witness cultural songs celebrating the daily life of the Dong people.
In the afternoon, we will visit the local museum. For the rest of the time, you are free to explore the village at your leisure.
The Rice Fields of the Dragon's Spine
Village de Zhaoxing → Congjiang
In the morning, we will be transferred to the train station of Congjiang.
Sanjiang → Pont De Chengyang
From there, we head to Chengyang, a small village populated by the Dong minority known for its Wind and Rain Bridge. Considered the most beautiful of the 108 bridges already existing in the district, the wooden architecture of this bridge is a masterpiece and integrates perfectly into the surrounding nature.
Pont De Chengyang → Village de Ping'An
After lunch, we head towards Ping'an and its magnificent terraced rice fields (allow approximately 2.5 hours of driving). A 30-minute walk then allows you to reach the village located below.
We settle into our Ridge Inn guesthouse which offers a lovely view of the rice fields and all necessary comforts.
In the late afternoon, we climb to the top of the Dragon's Backbone rice fields. Considered the most beautiful rice fields in the country, they are terraced across several hills with the highest point rising above 1000 meters. From this spot, we can then enjoy an incredible viewpoint and a breathtaking landscape.
Meeting with the "Yao"
In the morning, we will take a short hike to the top of the Dragon's Backbone rice terraces toward the various panoramic viewpoints. We may have the chance to meet the Yao women, famous for their beautiful embroidered pink costumes, their jewelry and their long hair that sometimes touches the ground.
Discovery of Xingping Village
Yangshuo → Xianggong
After breakfast, we head towards the Xianggong viewpoint, where we can enjoy an incredible view from the top of the Li River and Guilin's karst peaks park, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Xianggong → Village De Xingping
We pick up the car again which takes us a little further (5km) to the start of a hiking trail that leads us through pleasant landscapes shaped by citrus orchards and small hamlets until we reach the village of Xingping (allow approximately 1h30 to 2h of easy walking).
On the way, we stop at a small temple hidden on the banks at the entrance to the Snail Cave where a few monks still reside. Then we cross the river by ferry, before discovering the old street of Xingping, where we stop for lunch and regain our strength.
After lunch, we set off for a lovely 1h30 raft cruise on one of the most beautiful sections of the Li River between Xingping and the Hill of 9 Horses, a section which actually appears on 20 Yuan banknotes. The raft cruise takes us through magnificent varied landscapes formed by karst peaks, bamboo groves, rice fields and a few fishing villages.
Village De Xingping → Yangshuo
Optional: let us enhance our stay in Yangshuo with a cultural interlude by attending the sound and light show "Liu San Jie" in the evening. This show pays tribute to a famous Chinese musical comedy. The staging is directed by Chinese filmmaker Zhang Yimou, who was entrusted with directing the opening ceremony of the Beijing Olympic Games. The performance takes place on the Li River to highlight the natural setting, with karst mountains in the background.
Entrance tickets must be paid on site.
On two wheels...
Yangshuo → Yulong Xueshan
This morning, we set off by bike or electric scooter (average additional cost of 80 yuan/ vehicle) for an off-the-beaten-path ride to discover a wild and still secret cave perched high up. To reach it, we take the steps carved into the rock in one of the mountain's crevices (allow approximately 20 minutes of walking). Once at the top, we are rewarded for our efforts by a splendid view.
Yulong Xueshan → Aéroport International De Guilin Liangjiang
The bike ride continues this time along the extension of the Yulong River, through sleepy hamlets, rice fields and aquatic plateaus of fish farms until the Jiuxian village, where we take a lunch break in a lovely inn set up in an old house and then we retrace our steps.
Visit to Shanghai
For this last day in the Middle Kingdom, we will visit Fuxing Park in the morning, which is a park "in the French style". Located in the Former French Concession, locals love to gather there to sing, dance but also practice tai chi or simply rest for a moment. It is the relaxation spot of this former neighborhood of Shanghai.
We will then continue with a visit to Yu Garden, the most beautiful Chinese garden in Shanghai. Built in the 16th century, it symbolizes the world in miniature: here, rivers are streams and mountains are rocks. We will then proceed with a visit to Shanghai's old city, retracing daily life in Chine before modernization, and thus reviving Shanghai's past.
After a short break, we will visit the Shanghai Museum. It has a considerable collection of 120,000 pieces of ancient Chinese art antiquities. It is one of the most important museums in Chine.
In late afternoon, we enjoy a last moment of strolling through the streets of the Tianzifang neighborhood.
Last day in Shanghai
For this last day in the Middle Kingdom, we visit the Jade Buddha Temple, a powerful symbol of Buddhism in Chine.
Stroll along the famous boulevard nicknamed The Bund. Bordered by the Huangpu River, this district has become Shanghai's business center and is appreciated for both its modernity and colonial past. From there, we have a magnificent view of the Pudong financial district.
In the evening, we will have one last dinner together around a hot pot at "Dollar Shop".
Before you are transferred to Shanghai airport for your return flight to Paris scheduled for 00:15.
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 – Shanghai / Paris + 2 domestic flights with Air China (€800 per person)
- Chinese visa fees (160€ per person)
- Tips for guides and drivers (€40 per person)
- Travel insurance, complementary activities, personal expenses
- Single room supplement of €480
Included
- The charming hotels mentioned with breakfast every day
- English-speaking local guide at each step
- All transportation in private vehicle
- Entry tickets for all visits and activities mentioned
- Meals as mentioned above
- Payment by bank card in France
- Guarantees of our French travel agency
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
