Imperial China & Japan + Yangtze River Cruise 16-Day Tour

Arrive in Beijing, China’s imperial capital whose rich history dates back to more than 3000 years ago. Upon arrival, you will be transferred to your hotel. Our guide will assist with check-in, allowing you to enjoy some free time to relax afterwards.

Beijing embodies the beating heart of China, brimming with monumental landmarks that reflect its storied past and vibrant economic center. After breakfast, we will visit Tiananmen Square and then enter the Forbidden City, the ornate palace of the emperors, enclosed by its imperial-red walls. This structure was o? limits to commoners for centuries, being a UNESCO World Heritage Site accessible only to emperors, their families, and the court for over 500 years. After lunch in a local restaurant, we will visit another UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Temple of Heaven, where emperors would humble themselves and pray for a good harvest. Evening welcome dinner at the Peking duck.

Enjoy your trip to the ancient Great Wall, an iconic UNESCO World Heritage Site built from the 5th century BC to the 16th century AD to keep out nomads, stretching about 4,000 miles. Wander its paths, take in the breathtaking view. In the afternoon, visit the Summer Palace (Yiheyuan), a masterpiece of Chinese garden design and a former royal retreat with lakes, gardens, and palaces. Stroll the Long Corridor, admire the Marble Boat, and savor the calm of Kunming Lake, escaping the city’s hustle.

After breakfast, take a city tour in the old town of Beijing: visit the Hutongs with a rickshaw ride, admire the well-kept courtyards of families who still live in this richly historic community, and an authentic lunch. Departure by flight to Xi’an, one of China’s oldest cities, celebrated as the starting point of the ancient Silk Road. With more than 3,000 years of history, this city played a crucial role in one of China’s most glorious cultural periods. Dinner and transfer to the hotel.

Visit the Eighth Wonder of the World : the magni?cent Terracotta Warriors. At the enormous mausoleum where Emperor Qin Shi Huang was laid to rest over 2 000 years ago, see the 8 000 life-sized sculpted warriors, archers, and infantrymen who were buried with him. Remarkably, each man and horse was molded with its own distinctive features. The incredible archaeological site was discovered by local farmers in 1974. In the afternoon, we will visit the Grand Wild Goose Pagoda. In the evening, enjoy dinner while watching the spectacular Tang Dynasty Dance Show.

After breakfast, take a high-speed train to Chongqing, known as the ‘Mountain City.’ Upon arrival, enjoy a city tour to explore its unique urban landscape and vibrant atmosphere.

After dinner, board the Century Voyage for an unforgettable Yangtze River journey.

Take an excursion to Fengdu Ghost City, a legendary site rich in Chinese mythology and folklore.

In the evening, enjoy the Captain’s Welcome Cocktail Party aboard the cruise.

Journey through the most scenic stretch of the Yangtze River as it carves its way through a breathtaking series of limestone ridges known as the Three Gorges. Cruise through Qutang Gorge, the shortest, narrowest, and most dramatic of the three major gorges.

Next, board a smaller boat for an excursion along the Shennv Stream, sailing through awe-inspiring canyons flanked by towering cliffs. Along the way, witness fascinating historical sites, including the hanging coffins of the Ba people and the ancient plank road carved into the cliff-side. Continue sailing through Wu Gorge, renowned for its magnificent scenery and misty peaks.

After breakfast, disembark for a tour of the Three Gorges Dam, the world’s largest hydroelectric power project, which took nearly 20 years to complete. Get an up-close look at the inner workings of this massive structure and learn how it controls flooding while also leading to the relocation of 1.25 million people. After the tour, transfer by bus to Jingzhou, an ancient hub for trade and transportation, strategically located within a loop of the Yangtze River. Explore the Jingzhou Museum, home to fascinating historical artifacts, and walk along the well-preserved ancient city walls, a testament to the city’s rich past. Later, transfer to the airport for your flight to Shanghai.

After breakfast, take a stroll along the Bund, Shanghai’s iconic waterfront promenade, offering stunning views of the city’s historic and modern skyline. Then, explore the old Shanghai district of Cheng Huang Miao (City God Temple), a vibrant area known for its traditional architecture, street food, and cultural significance. Continue to Nanjing Road, the city’s main shopping street and one of the busiest commercial avenues in the world.

In the afternoon, visit the Shanghai Museum, home to nearly one million artifacts spanning 21 categories. The museum’s impressive collections of bronzes, calligraphy, ceramics, and paintings provide a deep insight into China’s rich artistic heritage. Enjoy your Huangpu River Cruise in the evening.

After breakfast, transfer to Shanghai Pudong International Airport, marking the end of your journey in China. Board your flight to Osaka, Japan. Upon arrival at Kansai International Airport, your local representative will assist you with your transfer to the hotel. After check-in, enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure

After breakfast, transfer to Nara, a city renowned for its iconic cultural and historical sites. Begin your exploration at Todai-ji Temple, built in the 8th century. This vast complex houses several national treasures, including the Daibutsuden (Great Buddha Hall), which enshrines the world’s largest bronze statue of Buddha Vairocana. Before returning to Osaka, take a leisurely walk through Nara Park, home to over 1,200 freely roaming wild sika deer, regarded as sacred messengers in Japanese culture. Back in Osaka, visit the Osaka Castle, a historic landmark that played a pivotal role in the unification of Japan during the Azuchi-Momoyama period (16th century). Conclude your journey at Dotonbori, a bustling entertainment district that embodies Osaka’s vibrant street food culture and nightlife. Enjoy some free time to explore this dynamic area before boarding your return flight home.

After breakfast, transfer to Kyoto, Japan’s former capital and imperial residence from 794 to 1868. The city is home to countless temples, shrines, and historic landmarks.

Visit the stunning Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion Temple) and Higashi Hongan-ji, then head to Kyoto Station for a perfect shot of Kyoto Tower before stopping for lunch.

Upon arrival in Nagoya, visit the Toyota Commemorative Museum of Industry and Technology to explore the company’s evolution from textile machinery to automotive and robotics innovation. Continue to Gotemba Peace Park for a breathtaking view of Mount Fuji before visiting the Oshino Hakkai, eight pristine ponds fed by Mount Fuji’s melting snow, known for their crystal-clear waters. Next, stop at a Sengen Shrine, then enjoy a scenic Lake Kawaguchi cruise, offering stunning views of Mount Fuji. End the day with a traditional hot spring experience and a buffet dinner at a ryokan-style hotel.

After breakfast, visit Meiji Shrine, dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Sh?ken. Next, head to Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building for a panoramic view of the vast cityscape.

Stroll through Senso-ji Temple (Asakusa Kannon Temple), one of Tokyo’s most vibrant and historic temples. For a unique experience, opt for a Kimono rental and capture memorable photos along the ancient streets. Finally, explore Nakamise Shopping Street, an 820-ft long avenue lined with stalls offering traditional Japanese goods and souvenirs.

After breakfast, enjoy a leisure day in Tokyo, exploring the city’s vibrant streets at your own pace. Visit museums to discover Japanese history and art, or indulge in retail therapy at Tokyo’s cutting-edge shopping districts. Alternatively, join an optional Modern Tokyo Tour ($95/pax, includes lunch), featuring:

National Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation

Tsukiji Fish Market, renowned for fresh seafood and culinary delights

Shibuya Crossing, one of the world’s busiest pedestrian intersections

Hachiko Statue, a symbol of loyalty and devotion

Shinjuku Gyoen Garden, an oasis of tranquility in the city

Free time in Shinjuku, a bustling entertainment and shopping district

After the tour, return to your hotel for a relaxing evening.