Shangri-La

Colorful Yunnan and Chengdu Tour From Hong Kong

4.9/5 459 Latest reviews
Tour Code: ODY-CN-2401
Destination: China
  • Duration13 Days
  • Tour TypePrivate & Bespoke
  • Tour Style Classic

About This Trip

The 13-day tour invites you to discover the many faces of China, from coast to inland, from vibrant cities to ancient towns and ethnic villages, in the southern region. Begin with eye-opening urban exploration in Hong Kong and Macau, blending Chinese tradition and colonial heritage in the modern skyline. As you traverse the diverse Yunnan province, delve into the natural and cultural tapestry of Kunming, Dali, Lijiang, and Shangri-La. Round off the journey at the hometown of giant pandas, Chengdu.

Itinerary Summary

  • DAY
    PLACE
    HIGHLIGHTS
  • 1 - 3
    Hong Kong
    Victoria Peak Tram, Hong Kong Central, Tsim Sha Tsui, Extension tour to Macau
  • 4 - 5
    Kunming
    Stone Forest, Jingxing Bird and Flower Market
  • 6
    Dali
    Cycling around Erhai Lake, Xizhou Ancient Town 
  • 7 - 8
    Lijiang
    Old Town of Lijiang, Naxi Villages and Family Visit
  • 9 - 11
    Shangri-La
    Tiger Leaping Gorge, Pudacuo National Park, Gedan Songzanlin Monastery with Lama Chat
  • 12 - 13
    Chengdu
    Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, Wenshu Temple with Tea Tasting
Expand All

Itinerary

Your arrival in Hong Kong is met with a warm welcome from your local guide. A private vehicle with a driver is waiting to take you from the airport to your hotel. The rest of the day is free to relax after your long-haul flight.
  • Hong Kong

Begin the journey today by boarding the Peak Tram up Victoria Peak for a mesmerizing view of the city skyline. Following this, immerse yourself in the spiritual ambiance of Man Mo Temple before savoring a delectable Cantonese dim sum lunch.

Continue to explore the bustling Central Mid-Levels Escalator area, where you'll uncover the historical significance of Central Market and Tai Kwun. Your guide will also escort you to ride on the "Ding Ding Tram," a timeless mode of transportation that offers a glimpse into the daily lives of locals.

Then, take the Star Ferry to Tsim Sha Tsui, where you'll wander along the renowned Avenue of Stars, seeking out the handprints of beloved celebrities such as Jackie Chan and Michelle Yeoh.

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  • Hong Kong

Today is set aside for a one-day Macau City Tour, back and forth Hong Kong by ferry. Ascend the iconic Macau Tower for breathtaking city vistas, then find serenity at A-Ma Temple and marvel at the Ruins of St. Paul's. After a leisurely walk around the elegant Leal Senado Square, venture to Taipa Island for a glimpse into Macau's colonial past at the Portuguese House Museum. Upon the conclusion of your tour, you have free time to savor Macau's unique energy at one of the vibrant casinos.

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  • Hong Kong

The next leg of your journey sees you flying into the diverse Yunnan province, both geographically and ethnically. Upon landing at its capital, Kunming, meet your local guide for a private transfer to your hotel. The rest of today is free to relax and enjoy your surroundings.

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  • Kunming

Just about a 1.5-hour drive away, the UNESCO-acclaimed Stone Forest showcases unique karst landforms sculpted by nature over millennia. Prepare to be awestruck by surreal stone pillars in various shapes, resembling swords, mushrooms, towers, and even castles. Once back in the city, roam the lively Jingxing Bird and Flower Market to glimpse into local life amidst colorful blooms and chirping birds.

After your visit, transfer to the railway station for your bullet train to Dali, mainly inhabited by Bai Ethnic Minority. Arriving in just 2.5 hours, enjoy a seamless transfer to your hotel for the night.

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  • Dali

Commence your day with a morning walk through the awakening ancient city. To its east, the stunning Erhai Lake will be best explored on a bike at your own leisurely pace. Along the Erhai Ecological Corridor, spend 1.5 hours cycling past bustling fairs, expansive farmlands, and lakeside traditional villages, with ample photo opportunities.

Continue your exploration in Xizhou, a millennium-old town consisting mainly of the ethnic Bai people. Yan Family Compound stands out as the representative of traditional Bai-style wooden courtyard homes. On your visit, experience local hospitality through the "Sandaocha" ceremony, a Bai tradition translating to "treating guests with three cups of tea."

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  • Dali

Following breakfast, you'll be escorted to the railway station for a swift journey aboard a high-speed train (approximately 1.5 hours) bound for Lijiang.

Once arriving, receive a warm welcome and transfer via private vehicle to your hotel. You have some free time to refresh before heading out to the UNESCO-protected Old Town, with its charming cobbled streets and traditional wooden architecture. As the tour concludes, ascend Lion Hill to behold its panoramic vista.

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  • Lijiang

Start by visiting the former capital of the Naxi kingdom - Baisha Village, just 8 km north of Lijiang. Extended for over 300 years, exquisite Mural Paintings - narrating local folklore, daily life, and spirituality - reflect a harmonious blend of Tibetan, Han, and Naxi cultures.

Next, experience the warmth of Naxi hospitality with a visit to a local family in Yuhu Village, known as the "No.1 Village at the Foot of the Snow Mountain." Dressed in traditional attire, the host will share insights into household goods, Dongba characters, paper-making techniques, etc. As you like, participate in soy milk and tofu curd preparation.

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  • Lijiang

Departing from Lijiang in the morning, hit the road for a scenic drive towards Shangri-La. As you stop off at the First Bend of the Yangtze River, admire the mighty river taking a sudden V-shape turn due to the obstruction of the nearby Hailuo Mountain. Then, come to today's highlight - Tiger Leaping Gorge, a natural wonder framed by the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain and Haba Snow Mountain. Choose between a soft walk along the upper trail, savoring the "roar" of the gorge, or opt for a more challenging 3 to 4-hour hike to explore the captivating Middle Tiger Leaping Gorge. Finally, settle into your Lijiang hotel for a well-earned rest.

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  • Shangri-La

Start your exploration in Shangri-La from the unspoiled Pudacuo National Park. You'll be treated to the pristine beauty of tranquil lakes and lush forests. This afternoon goes with a spiritual visit to Gedan Songzanlin Monastery, the largest Tibetan Buddhist monastery in Yunnan province. Engage in enlightening conversations with a revered lama, gaining insight into their daily practices and lifestyle.

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  • Shangri-La

Enjoy this morning at leisure until your tour guide accompanies you to the airport for your flight to Chengdu, the appealing city of Sichuan province.

Upon arrival, you'll be greeted, picked up, and transferred to your hotel for the night.

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  • Chengdu

A delightful day unfolds as you meet adorable giant pandas face to face at the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding. Your knowledge guide will be by your side to explore their unique living habit and growth process. You'll also have the chance to encounter red pandas, golden monkeys, and some other endangered wildlife.

This afternoon, delve into the city's history at Chengdu Museum, showcasing historical relics, traditional handicrafts, and local traditions. Closing out the day, retreat to the Buddhist sacred Wenshu Temple and engage in tea tasting with locals amidst serene surroundings.

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  • Chengdu

Your journey comes to an end this morning. Arrange your own transportation, either by taxi or subway, to the airport for your homebound flight.

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