Kensington
16 Day Imperial China & Mystical Tibet Luxury Journey
16 Day Imperial China & Mystical Tibet Luxury Journey
Please note that entry to Tibet is not possible from December 15 to April 15 annually.
A blend of big-city bustle and spiritual serenity, China satisfies travelers of any speed. This luxurious experience transports you from the dazzling wonders of Beijing to the edge of the Great Wall itself, from the serene mountaintop abode of Lhasa to stylish Shanghai with a relaxing cruise along the Yangtze connecting it all together. You’ve never experienced China and Tibet quite like this before, and once you’ve tried it, you’ll wonder how you lived without it for so long.
After touching down in Beijing, the adventure begins on the outskirts of the capital with a private tour of the glorious grounds of the Summer Palace on the shores of Kunming Lake, followed by a visit to Mutianyu section of China’s legendary Great Wall. Later, take a private tour of two of Beijing’s most important sites – Tiananmen Square and the UNESCO-protected Forbidden City palace complex – before spending an afternoon wandering the alleys and laneways of a traditional working-class hutong neighborhood before settling in for a delicious Peking Duck dinner at a popular local restaurant. In Xi’an, step out and explore the Muslim Quarter on a private evening walking tour before meeting the city’s most famous residents, the famed Terracotta Warriors, with a private guide.
From there, the scene shifts to Lhasa, capital of the autonomous region of Tibet and home to the Drepung and Sera monasteries, two of Tibetan Buddhism’s most revered sites that you’ll explore in private. Next, take in Lhasa’s stunning temples and palaces (including Jokhang Temple and the massive Potala Palace) en route to Bhakor, the city’s oldest road and an important pilgrimage route. After arriving in Chengdu, you’ll be treated to a delicious hotpot dinner before heading out the next day for a private encounter at the Panda Research Center and tea at a traditional teahouse before taking to the Yangtze for a fascinating three-day cruise to Yichang that takes you to Fuling and along the famed Shennong stream, and through the Three Gorges with tai chi and reflexology demonstrations along the way. Last stop: Shanghai, where you’ll take a private tour of the city’s signature sights (including stylish Tianzifang and the Jade Buddha Temple), cruise the Huangpu River, and dine out on a luxurious final-night dinner in the “Paris of the East.”
Kensington Tours creates private trips from the world’s finest ingredients. Tailor-made with care by your personal Destination Expert, your personalized trip is always a one-of-a-kind experience made just for you. Expert local guidance and 24/7 service come standard.
| Day 1 |
Visit Beijing, China’s capital! This majestic city offers plenty of grand monuments, ancient landmarks, and breathtaking sights for you to explore. Begin your Beijing adventure in the heart of the city. Beyond Tiananmen Square, the city’s austere (and infamous) political center erected by Chairman Mao, lies the remarkable Forbidden City. This imperial palace, perhaps the most famous attraction in Beijing proper, will amaze you with its bright red façade and impressive museum, home to beautiful pieces of Chinese art. Nearby Tian Tan or Temple of Heaven, the imperial center for prayer over many dynasties, is fashioned in the same exquisite Chinese architectural style and bursts with lavish reds and golds. Travel mere steps from Tiananmen to gaze in wonderment at the National Center for the Performing Arts, whose illuminated glass dome sparkles over a mirror-like pool of blue water. After visiting the city’s historic landmarks, unwind by browsing unique markets and enjoying some delicious culinary treats. Restaurants throughout Beijing serve savory and crispy peking duck, a staple in the city, but be sure to sample sweet cakes and rice desserts on bustling Wangfujing Snack Street. From lovely jade beads, to vintage tea pots, to distinctive souvenirs, the Panjiyuan Antique Market is the quintessential stop for shopping in Beijing. Venture just north of the capital to see the Great Wall of China, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the world’s most iconic man-made wonders. This vast landmark, whose twisting steps are set upon lush hilltops, is an absolute must-see on any trip to Beijing. The Great Wall’s overwhelming immensity is guaranteed to leave you awestruck. |
| Day 2 |
Visit Beijing, China’s capital! This majestic city offers plenty of grand monuments, ancient landmarks, and breathtaking sights for you to explore. Begin your Beijing adventure in the heart of the city. Beyond Tiananmen Square, the city’s austere (and infamous) political center erected by Chairman Mao, lies the remarkable Forbidden City. This imperial palace, perhaps the most famous attraction in Beijing proper, will amaze you with its bright red façade and impressive museum, home to beautiful pieces of Chinese art. Nearby Tian Tan or Temple of Heaven, the imperial center for prayer over many dynasties, is fashioned in the same exquisite Chinese architectural style and bursts with lavish reds and golds. Travel mere steps from Tiananmen to gaze in wonderment at the National Center for the Performing Arts, whose illuminated glass dome sparkles over a mirror-like pool of blue water. After visiting the city’s historic landmarks, unwind by browsing unique markets and enjoying some delicious culinary treats. Restaurants throughout Beijing serve savory and crispy peking duck, a staple in the city, but be sure to sample sweet cakes and rice desserts on bustling Wangfujing Snack Street. From lovely jade beads, to vintage tea pots, to distinctive souvenirs, the Panjiyuan Antique Market is the quintessential stop for shopping in Beijing. Venture just north of the capital to see the Great Wall of China, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the world’s most iconic man-made wonders. This vast landmark, whose twisting steps are set upon lush hilltops, is an absolute must-see on any trip to Beijing. The Great Wall’s overwhelming immensity is guaranteed to leave you awestruck. |
| Day 3 |
Visit Beijing, China’s capital! This majestic city offers plenty of grand monuments, ancient landmarks, and breathtaking sights for you to explore. Begin your Beijing adventure in the heart of the city. Beyond Tiananmen Square, the city’s austere (and infamous) political center erected by Chairman Mao, lies the remarkable Forbidden City. This imperial palace, perhaps the most famous attraction in Beijing proper, will amaze you with its bright red façade and impressive museum, home to beautiful pieces of Chinese art. Nearby Tian Tan or Temple of Heaven, the imperial center for prayer over many dynasties, is fashioned in the same exquisite Chinese architectural style and bursts with lavish reds and golds. Travel mere steps from Tiananmen to gaze in wonderment at the National Center for the Performing Arts, whose illuminated glass dome sparkles over a mirror-like pool of blue water. After visiting the city’s historic landmarks, unwind by browsing unique markets and enjoying some delicious culinary treats. Restaurants throughout Beijing serve savory and crispy peking duck, a staple in the city, but be sure to sample sweet cakes and rice desserts on bustling Wangfujing Snack Street. From lovely jade beads, to vintage tea pots, to distinctive souvenirs, the Panjiyuan Antique Market is the quintessential stop for shopping in Beijing. Venture just north of the capital to see the Great Wall of China, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the world’s most iconic man-made wonders. This vast landmark, whose twisting steps are set upon lush hilltops, is an absolute must-see on any trip to Beijing. The Great Wall’s overwhelming immensity is guaranteed to leave you awestruck. |
| Day 4 |
Xi'an is the capital of Shaanxi (Shen-hsi) Province, and the cultural center of the historic and agriculturally rich Wei River valley. Historical interests include the tomb of China's first emperor, Shih 0Huang Ti; Shaanxi Provincial Museum; the Big and Little Goose Pagodas; and the Great Mosque. Other points of interest include the tombs of the Tang emperors (618-906); four tumuli (burial mounds); Xi'an Hot Springs; and Banpo, a Neolithic village. |
| Day 5 |
Xi'an is the capital of Shaanxi (Shen-hsi) Province, and the cultural center of the historic and agriculturally rich Wei River valley. Historical interests include the tomb of China's first emperor, Shih 0Huang Ti; Shaanxi Provincial Museum; the Big and Little Goose Pagodas; and the Great Mosque. Other points of interest include the tombs of the Tang emperors (618-906); four tumuli (burial mounds); Xi'an Hot Springs; and Banpo, a Neolithic village. |
| Day 6 |
Xi'an is the capital of Shaanxi (Shen-hsi) Province, and the cultural center of the historic and agriculturally rich Wei River valley. Historical interests include the tomb of China's first emperor, Shih 0Huang Ti; Shaanxi Provincial Museum; the Big and Little Goose Pagodas; and the Great Mosque. Other points of interest include the tombs of the Tang emperors (618-906); four tumuli (burial mounds); Xi'an Hot Springs; and Banpo, a Neolithic village. |
| Day 7 |
One of the world's highest plateaus (approximately 12,000 ft. above sea level). Home to the Potala Palace, former living quarters of the Dalai Lama. Visit one of Tibet's holiest shrines, the revered 7th century Jokhang Temple, where pilgrims come to prostrate themselves before the statue of the Sakyamuni Buddha, lavishly enthroned in silver and gold. |
| Day 8 |
One of the world's highest plateaus (approximately 12,000 ft. above sea level). Home to the Potala Palace, former living quarters of the Dalai Lama. Visit one of Tibet's holiest shrines, the revered 7th century Jokhang Temple, where pilgrims come to prostrate themselves before the statue of the Sakyamuni Buddha, lavishly enthroned in silver and gold. |
| Day 9 |
Chengdu, located in the center of the Sichuan Basin, is known as the "Land in Heaven" because of its agricultural wealth.
Chengdu is a city of broad streets and inviting parks. Points of interests include Du Fu Cottage, a shrine built in honor of the famous Tang Dynasty poet; Wu Hou Shrine, a shrine built for the Chinese military strategist of the third century, Zhug Liang; and the River View Pavilion (Wangjiang Lou) where 120 varieties of bamboo can be found. Northwest of Chengdu are the Dujiangyan Dam, built in 150 B.C. and Green City Mountain which is famous for its Taoist and Buddhist temples and monasteries. |
| Day 10 |
Chengdu, located in the center of the Sichuan Basin, is known as the "Land in Heaven" because of its agricultural wealth.
Chengdu is a city of broad streets and inviting parks. Points of interests include Du Fu Cottage, a shrine built in honor of the famous Tang Dynasty poet; Wu Hou Shrine, a shrine built for the Chinese military strategist of the third century, Zhug Liang; and the River View Pavilion (Wangjiang Lou) where 120 varieties of bamboo can be found. Northwest of Chengdu are the Dujiangyan Dam, built in 150 B.C. and Green City Mountain which is famous for its Taoist and Buddhist temples and monasteries. |
| Day 11 |
The Yangtze River, a magnificent artery of China, stretches over 6,300 kilometers (3,917 miles) from the Tibetan Plateau to the East China Sea. As the longest river in Asia and the third longest in the world, it weaves through breathtaking landscapes and vibrant cities, making it a prime destination for travelers seeking both adventure and cultural immersion. The river is famed for its dramatic gorges, including the renowned Three Gorges – Qutang, Wu, and Xiling – which offer spectacular views and opportunities for river cruises. These gorges are not only natural wonders but also steeped in history, with ancient temples and relics dotting the landscape. Cruising along the Yangtze is a quintessential experience, providing a unique perspective on China's rich heritage. A Yangtze River Cruise takes you through a tapestry of scenic beauty and cultural sites, from the serene beauty of the Lesser Three Gorges to the impressive Three Gorges Dam, the world's largest hydropower project. This grand engineering feat is a marvel of modern technology and offers insightful tours that explain its impact on the environment and local communities. The Yangtze is also pivotal to China's economic and cultural life. Cities like Chongqing and Wuhan, situated along its banks, are bustling hubs of activity with rich histories and modern attractions. In Chongqing, explore the historic Ci Qi Kou Ancient Town and indulge in the city’s renowned hotpot cuisine. Wuhan, known for its vibrant academic and cultural scene, features the Yellow Crane Tower, a symbol of the city’s historical and cultural significance. Fun fact: The Yangtze River is home to the rare and endangered Yangtze Giant Salamander, one of the world's largest amphibians. This remarkable creature is native to the river's clear, cold waters and is a testament to the river's rich biodiversity. |
| Day 12 |
The Yangtze River, a magnificent artery of China, stretches over 6,300 kilometers (3,917 miles) from the Tibetan Plateau to the East China Sea. As the longest river in Asia and the third longest in the world, it weaves through breathtaking landscapes and vibrant cities, making it a prime destination for travelers seeking both adventure and cultural immersion. The river is famed for its dramatic gorges, including the renowned Three Gorges – Qutang, Wu, and Xiling – which offer spectacular views and opportunities for river cruises. These gorges are not only natural wonders but also steeped in history, with ancient temples and relics dotting the landscape. Cruising along the Yangtze is a quintessential experience, providing a unique perspective on China's rich heritage. A Yangtze River Cruise takes you through a tapestry of scenic beauty and cultural sites, from the serene beauty of the Lesser Three Gorges to the impressive Three Gorges Dam, the world's largest hydropower project. This grand engineering feat is a marvel of modern technology and offers insightful tours that explain its impact on the environment and local communities. The Yangtze is also pivotal to China's economic and cultural life. Cities like Chongqing and Wuhan, situated along its banks, are bustling hubs of activity with rich histories and modern attractions. In Chongqing, explore the historic Ci Qi Kou Ancient Town and indulge in the city’s renowned hotpot cuisine. Wuhan, known for its vibrant academic and cultural scene, features the Yellow Crane Tower, a symbol of the city’s historical and cultural significance. Fun fact: The Yangtze River is home to the rare and endangered Yangtze Giant Salamander, one of the world's largest amphibians. This remarkable creature is native to the river's clear, cold waters and is a testament to the river's rich biodiversity. |
| Day 13 |
The Yangtze River, a magnificent artery of China, stretches over 6,300 kilometers (3,917 miles) from the Tibetan Plateau to the East China Sea. As the longest river in Asia and the third longest in the world, it weaves through breathtaking landscapes and vibrant cities, making it a prime destination for travelers seeking both adventure and cultural immersion. The river is famed for its dramatic gorges, including the renowned Three Gorges – Qutang, Wu, and Xiling – which offer spectacular views and opportunities for river cruises. These gorges are not only natural wonders but also steeped in history, with ancient temples and relics dotting the landscape. Cruising along the Yangtze is a quintessential experience, providing a unique perspective on China's rich heritage. A Yangtze River Cruise takes you through a tapestry of scenic beauty and cultural sites, from the serene beauty of the Lesser Three Gorges to the impressive Three Gorges Dam, the world's largest hydropower project. This grand engineering feat is a marvel of modern technology and offers insightful tours that explain its impact on the environment and local communities. The Yangtze is also pivotal to China's economic and cultural life. Cities like Chongqing and Wuhan, situated along its banks, are bustling hubs of activity with rich histories and modern attractions. In Chongqing, explore the historic Ci Qi Kou Ancient Town and indulge in the city’s renowned hotpot cuisine. Wuhan, known for its vibrant academic and cultural scene, features the Yellow Crane Tower, a symbol of the city’s historical and cultural significance. Fun fact: The Yangtze River is home to the rare and endangered Yangtze Giant Salamander, one of the world's largest amphibians. This remarkable creature is native to the river's clear, cold waters and is a testament to the river's rich biodiversity. |
| Day 14 |
|
| Day 15 |
Also known as “The Paris of the East,” Shanghai is a youthful and cosmopolitan city with a tantalizing blend of Eastern and Western culture. Across the Huangpu River you will see Pudong district’s futuristic skyline, including Shanghai Tower and Oriental Pearl TV Tower. The gorgeous Yu Garden has traditional pavilions, towers and ponds and definitely lives up to its nickname, "Garden of Happiness." |
| Day 16 |
Also known as “The Paris of the East,” Shanghai is a youthful and cosmopolitan city with a tantalizing blend of Eastern and Western culture. Across the Huangpu River you will see Pudong district’s futuristic skyline, including Shanghai Tower and Oriental Pearl TV Tower. The gorgeous Yu Garden has traditional pavilions, towers and ponds and definitely lives up to its nickname, "Garden of Happiness." |
| Travel Dates | Price | ||
|---|---|---|---|
|
08/01/20 - 12/31/26 |
Starting At $11,470 |
Get A Quote |
Prices are per person, based on double occupancy. Offer is subject to availability and change without notice. Some restrictions may apply.
