A Cultural Odyssey
When you ride by rickshaw to visit Prince Gong's Mansion, you can be sure that you're not in Kansas anymore. Your whole itinerary for your Yangtze River cruise promises a journey that feels like a magnificent fantasy, but is actually grounded in the rich traditions and colorful history of our friends on the other side of the planet. Steeped in mystery and legend, the Yangtze reveals its splendid secrets as you cruise downstream, passing fascinating ports, stunning gorges and spectacular dams. In Suzhou, elaborate gardens of fusing rock, water, bridges and beautiful pavilions delight and rejuvenate your whole being and persuade you to spend a while in meditation. Ancient and modern wonders merge miraculously in the bustling cities. You'll discover that history classes never offered the wealth of fascinating cultural lessons that you'll uncover in Beijing, Xian, Shanghai, and Hong Kong. Every moment of your journey opens your eyes and your mind to new horizons and fresh perspectives.
Journey in pictures
Why travel with us
Cultural Historians
Private access to sites like the Forbidden City with expert scholars.
Luxury River Cruising
Voyage through the Yangtze on the Victoria Isabella, the peak of river luxury.
Preferred Partner Perks
Enjoy guaranteed upgrades and VIP status at our partner properties.
Day 1: Departure
Depart on your flight to Beijing, preparing for your immersion into the heart of the Middle Kingdom.
- International flight arrangements
- Pre-departure support
Days 2 & 3: Beijing Arrival
Meet your traveling companions in Beijing at a festive party and learn more about the exciting events and adventures ahead. Visit the Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square, and the beautiful Temple of Heaven.
Overnight The St. Regis Beijing
- Private historian-led tour
- Welcome festive party
- St. Regis Butler service
Days 4 & 5: The Great Wall
Venture to the extraordinary Great Wall of China and Ming Tombs. Enjoy a splendid Beijing Opera performance, witnessing the intricate costumes and storied traditions of Chinese theatre.
Overnight The St. Regis Beijing
- Private Great Wall excursion
- Beijing Opera VIP seating
- Gourmet lunch at the Wall
Days 6, 7 & 8: Xi'an & Chongqing
Visit the Shaanxi History Museum and the tomb of Emperor Qin and his Terra Cotta Warriors. Proceed to Chongqing, your gateway to the Yangtze River, to visit Hongyan Village, the Stilwell Museum, and Eling Park.
- Private viewing of Terra Cotta Warriors
- Skyline views from Eling Park
- Luxury transfers
Days 9 & 10: Yangtze River Cruise
Board the Victoria Isabella and voyage through 120 miles of spectacular gorges. Learn about the ancient history of this remarkable area as you float past ancient cities and arrive in Wushan to cruise the Three Lesser Gorges.
Overnight aboard the Victoria Isabella
- Executive Suite on Victoria Isabella
- Three Lesser Gorges excursion
- All-inclusive dining
Days 11 & 12: Arrival in Shanghai
Visit the Three Gorges Dam at Sandouping Village before disembarking in Yichang for your flight to Shanghai. Transfer to the "Urban Resort" of The Puli.
Overnight The Puli Hotel and Spa
- Dam site technical tour
- Private airport transfers
- Priority check-in
Days 13 & 14: Shanghai & Suzhou
View China's dynasties at the Shanghai Museum East. Visit Suzhou's classical gardens—a fusion of rock and water—and enjoy a special farewell dinner party with your fellow travelers.
Overnight The Puli Hotel and Spa
- Private Suzhou garden tour
- Farewell dinner party
- Museum East curator tour
Day 15: Final Departure
Depart Shanghai for home or your next destination, carrying the memories of a truly grand journey.
- Private vehicle to Pudong Airport
- Airport VIP lounge access
Exclusive amenities await
Our China partners provide the highest level of luxury and aesthetic intentionality. Book through Classic Travel to unlock these exclusive perks.
Terms and conditions: All journeys are subject to availability and are handcrafted exclusively for Classic Travel clients. Prices and inclusions are confirmed at time of booking.
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