China of Traditions and Minorities
Between imperial palaces and Tibetan villages, an authentic journey through Chinese traditions.
Duration
13 days
From
€1,830/pers.
Ideal seasons
Mar, Apr, May, Sep, Oct, Nov
Style
Guided tour
Comfort
classique
Travelers
Couple, Solo, With friends, senior
The spirit of travel
Discover the imperial heritage and historical legacy of Beijing and Xi'an, as well as the rural life of Yunnan through this circuit. In Beijing, the Forbidden City and the Great Wall testify to the grandeur of past dynasties, while in Xi'an, the Terracotta Army reveals the secrets of an empire over two thousand years old. Meet minorities in picturesque small villages, let yourself be captivated by unique landscapes and architecture, between terraced rice fields, traditional wooden houses and colorful markets where Hani, Yi and Dai cultures blend together. Each stage of the journey reveals a different face of Chine, between the vibrant modernity of major cities and the preserved authenticity of rural regions. Uncover the secrets of the Middle Kingdom! Adaptable to your possibilities and desires, this circuit holds many surprises in store for you, combining cultural discoveries, human encounters and breathtaking panoramas.
The stages of your journey
Highlights
Day-by-day itinerary
Arrival in Beijing and visit to the Forbidden City
Welcome upon your arrival at Beijing international airport by our driver, and transfer to your hotel.
Visit of the Forbidden City of Beijing, one of the country's emblems, overlooking the most visited square in the world, Tiananmen Square. A vast complex composed of different palaces and apartments, these buildings were constructed during the Ming era in the 15th century. 72 hectares will welcome you for an unparalleled visit at the heart of power of ancient dynasties. On site we will see many imperial treasures, particularly Chinese artworks such as paintings, bronzes, ceramics and other exceptional creations.
We take advantage of this outing to stroll around Tiananmen Square, then head to the Gate of Heavenly Peace and the Coal Hill which offers a panoramic view over the capital.
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 frequented 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 explore on foot, and you will be able to stroll along the fortifications that wind through the superb landscapes of Northern Chine mountains, and thus discover the architectural jewel of medieval Chine.
We take the cable car for the ascent.
Back in Beijing, we pass by the Olympic Stadium to discover the Water Cube and the Bird's Nest imagined by John Pauline and Herzoge. The interior of the site is open to visitors.
After a free dinner, we end the day on a cultural note by attending a Beijing opera performance.
The Summer Palace
Visit to 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-shaped architecture, as well as its triple roof covered with blue glazed tiles, and take time to stroll through the park alleys where many Beijing residents gather every day to dance or play Jianzi.
We enjoy a lunch at a local home during which we will have the opportunity to discover the culinary habits and daily life of locals in old Beijing.
We depart for a visit of the Beijing Hutong by rickshaw Our visit begins at the Bell and Drum Towers and will take us through the alleys of old Beijing. Along the way, we will have the chance to see the magnificent gardens of the Prince Gong's Palace, the largest and best-preserved palace of the Qing Dynasty.
We discover the Summer Palace, the most important and best-preserved royal park in Chine. The estate with its numerous temples, gardens, lake and galleries is a model for Chinese horticulture and landscape design.
At the top of the Longevity Hill, you will discover the Pavilion of Buddhist Incense, and you will have a stunning panorama of the entire park, and notably the Kunming Lake.
Let us be tempted by a boat ride on the pond located inside the park of Empress Cixi.
In the evening, transfer to the station where we will take an overnight train to Xi'an.
Arrival in Xi'an: visit to the Terracotta Army and the Great Wild Goose Pagoda
Today, we visit another spectacular site that is sure to 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.
Return to Xi'an, with a visit to the city's second major attraction: the 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. At the end of the visit, we stroll through its gardens.
We arrive in Xi'an early in the morning. Our new English-speaking guide meets us upon arrival and takes care of the transfer to your hotel.
Flight to Yunnan Province
We meet early in the morning at the airport to board a flight to Lijiang.
Upon arrival at our destination, we are welcomed by a driver who will take us to our hotel, located in the historic center of Lijiang.
Today, we are free to plan our own itinerary. Let's stroll around and recharge ourselves in the old town.
Trekking in the Tiger Leap Gorge
Lijiang → Gorge du Saut du Tigre
The meeting with the guide is set for 8 a.m. Today's program: visit to the Naxi villages of Baisha and Qiaotou where the Tiger Leap Gorge begins. We go up to the Tea Horse or the Halfway Guest House for lunch. After, we continue our hike on the heights of the valley and descend to Tina's Guest House. The driver is waiting there to take us to the Sean's Guest House where we will spend the night.
Arrival in Shangri La
Gorge du Saut du Tigre → Shangri-la
The hike continues along a path leading to the bottom of the Gorges, near the Yangtze. We climb back up a small trail to rejoin our driver. After lunch, we resume our journey towards Shangri.
Upon arrival at our destination, we drop off our luggage at the Timeless Inn guesthouse. The establishment is located in the heart of the historic center of Shangri-La, just a stone's throw from the square where locals gather in the evening to dance. We enjoy a first stroll through the old town.
Meeting with the Locals
Today, we explore Shangri-La and the surrounding region. Discovery begins at the Tibetan Songzanlin Monastery. This is followed by a stroll through the local market and the old town, leading to the Bai Ji Si Temple from which we will enjoy a beautiful view of the city's surroundings and the Shika Mountains. For your information, a fire ravaged the central part of the old town on January 11, 2014.
After lunch, we resume our activities, including walks (on foot or by bike) through the Tibetan countryside. We have a choice of different routes, depending on our preferences and abilities.
Along the way, we stop at a Tibetan family's home, always hospitable, to taste yak butter tea. We can also be tempted by the « Tsampa » and yak butter cheese which form the basis of local daily diet.
In the evening, we can watch, or even participate in spontaneous dance performances in the old town square.
Shaxi, a charming little village
We set off for Shaxi in the morning.
In the afternoon, we explore the Shibao mountains known for their Buddhist sculptures carved into stone and their peaceful temples.
We take a 1 hour 30 minute walk (or by car) towards the old town of Shaxi, then towards a small village in the valley, 40 minutes on foot, crossing the countryside.
At dinner, let's discover local culinary specialties.
Introduction to Craftsmanship
We then leave the region to join the Dali valley. We make a stop at the Bai de Zhoucheng village where it is pleasant to wander through the picturesque streets, among the small antiquated temples. Let's take advantage of our visit to learn about batik dyeing.
Arriving at the village of Xizhou, we are accommodated in the beautiful Linden Center hotel. It is a traditional Bai residence that has been renovated with modern comfort.
In late afternoon, take a break and explore the village and surrounding countryside by bike or on foot.
The Warm People of Weishan
This morning, we head to the old town of Weishan. Along the way, we turn off to Donglinghua, a Hui Muslim minority village. Little known to tourists, Weishan is home to welcoming people who are open to sharing in its small alleyways.
In the afternoon, we venture into the Weibao mountain, whose highest point is located at 2 500 m altitude. It is one of the 13 sacred Taoist mountains in Chine. Let us appreciate the calm and serenity emanated by the small temples and the natural setting. Let us take advantage of this getaway to converse with the Taoist monks.
We dine in a restaurant in the old town of Dali to recharge our energy, before being taken to the station.
Kunming and the Stone Forest
In the evening, don't miss the dance and song show of ethnic minorities from Yunnan province, entitled "Dynamic " (8:00 PM-9:30 PM).
We take an overnight train to Kunming.
Kunming → Forêt De Pierre De Shilin
Arrived in Kunming, we continue our discovery circuit on the road to Shilin. We embark on a hiking excursion of approximately 2 hours in the heart of the Stone Forest, between rock formations and narrow trails.
Forêt De Pierre De Shilin → Kunming
We return to Kunming to visit the Golden Temple, built in 1602 during the Ming Dynasty.
Next, we stroll through the city center, particularly in the flower and bird market district.
Have a good flight and see you soon!
Free day! We have the choice between taking a walk at the Emerald Lake, very popular with professional singers and dancers. It is possible to extend the circuit by visiting the Yuantong Buddhist temple accessible in 5 or 10 minutes on foot.
We are transferred to Kunming airport to take our return flight.
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
- International flights arriving in and departing from Chine
- Meals and drinks to be enjoyed according to your preferences and your guide's recommendations
- Tips for Guides and Drivers
Included
- English-speaking guide in Beijing and Xi'an from day 1 to 4, in Yunnan from day 6 to 12
- All transportation and transfers in private vehicle
- Visits and activities for all days with the guide accommodations mentioned with breakfast every day
- Overnight train from Beijing to Xi'an, high-speed train from Dali to 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
