12-Day Yangtze River Valley Highlights Tour

• Shanghai Tower--Yuyuan Garden--Nanjing Road--The Bund
• 4-stars Hotel
• Breakfast

After breakfast, kick-start your day at Shanghai Tower, one of the world’s tallest skyscrapers. Head to the observation deck “Top of Shanghai” on the 118th floor. As you step out, you’ll be greeted by a 360 - degree panoramic view of Shanghai. Watch how the city’s skyline, with iconic structures like the Oriental Pearl Tower and Jin Mao Tower, unfolds under the morning sun. The high-speed elevators, zipping up at an amazing speed, are an experience in themselves, making your ascent part of the adventure. After soaking in the modern heights, make your way to Yuyuan Garden, a classic Chinese - style garden with a history spanning over 400 years. Stroll through its winding paths, admire the rockeries (rock formations), serene ponds filled with koi fish, and ancient pavilions. Each corner of the garden tells a story, from the carved windows that frame nature like living paintings to the age - old trees that provide cool shade. Don’t miss the Huxingting Teahouse by the lake—sit down, order a cup of fragrant Longjing tea, and savor the tranquil atmosphere while watching the world go by.

Once you’ve had your fill of the garden’s peace, you will have kunch. Then, head to Nanjing Road, Shanghai’s bustling shopping mecca. This iconic street is lined with everything from luxury brand stores in grand, historic buildings to trendy fast - fashion outlets. As you walk along the pedestrian - only sections, take in the energy of the crowds, the flashy neon signs, and the street performers. Pop into a local department store to experience the unique shopping culture—bargain a bit at the small shops for traditional Chinese souvenirs like silk scarves or paper-cut artworks.

As the day winds down, head to The Bund, the most famous waterfront in Shanghai. As the sun sets, the historic buildings along the Bund—once homes to banks and trading houses from the colonial era—are bathed in golden light. Watch as the sky transitions from orange to deep purple, and then, as night falls, the modern skyscrapers across the Huangpu River light up in a dazzling display. Take a walk along the promenade, feel the cool breeze off the river, and marvel at how the old and new sides of Shanghai—separated by the water—create a breathtaking contrast. You can also hop on a Huangpu River cruise to see the illuminated skyline from the water, adding a touch of romance to your Shanghai evening.

• Shennong Stream--Wu Gorge--Qutang Gorge--Baidi City or The Summit of the Three Gorges (at your own expense)
• 4-stars Hotel
• Breakfast

Start your day with a delicious breakfast on the cruise ship. Then, head to the boarding point for Shennong Stream. Once you board the small boats that will take you along Shennong Stream, get ready to be enchanted by its natural beauty. The stream is known for its crystal-clear water, flanked by lush green mountains on both sides. As you drift along, you'll pass through narrow gorges where the water is calm and reflective, creating mirror-like surfaces. You can also observe the local boatmen skillfully rowing the traditional wooden boats, and sometimes they might even sing folk songs, adding a touch of local charm to the journey. Along the way, look out for unique rock formations and waterfalls cascading down the cliffs.

After finishing the tour of Shennong Stream, head back to the cruise ship for lunch. After lunch, as the cruise ship sets sail again, you'll enter Wu Gorge. Admire the steep and magnificent mountains on both sides of the gorge, which seem to touch the sky. The peaks are often shrouded in mist, giving the whole scene an ethereal and mysterious look. You can spot various rock formations that have been given interesting names based on their shapes, like the "Twelve Peaks of Wu Gorge," and listen to the stories and legends behind them from the onboard guides.

• Snow Jade Cave--Fengdu Ghost City or Wuling Mountain Grand Canyon (at your own expense)
• 4-stars Hotel
• Breakfast

Head to the Snow Jade Cave Scenic Area. The Snow Jade Cave is a highlight among the karst cave groups in the Longhe Tourist Scenic Area. It is the youngest developed cave in China at present, with extremely high ornamental and scientific research values. The stalactites and other landscapes in the cave grow only three centimeters every hundred years, which is quite rare. Follow the tour route inside the cave to admire various peculiar stalactites, stone stalagmites, stone pillars and other landscapes, and feel the uncanny workmanship of nature. The visit will take about one and a half hours.

Based on your personal choice and the available time, you can decide to visit either Fengdu Ghost City or Wuling Mountain Grand Canyon.  If you choose to visit the Fengdu Ghost City. Step into this ancient and mysterious place that's steeped in legends and folklore. Begin at the entrance and follow the path that winds through various sections. You'll come across the eerie "Ghost Gate", where you can almost imagine the spirits passing through. Walk across the "Naihe Bridge" and feel the weight of the stories associated with it. Explore the different temples and halls dedicated to the deities and figures from the underworld. Don't miss the chance to see the detailed sculptures and paintings that depict the afterlife as per Chinese mythology. Wander around for about 3 to 4 hours, really immersing yourself in the unique cultural and historical ambiance of this place.

Or, head to the Wuling Mountain Grand Canyon. As you arrive, you'll be greeted by the majestic sight of the mountains and the deep gorges. Start your exploration by taking in the panoramic views from one of the lookout points. Then, begin your descent into the canyon. Walk along the trails that hug the sides of the cliffs, marveling at the sheer scale of the place. Cross the suspension bridges that sway gently over the deep chasms, adding an element of excitement to your journey. Make sure to visit the narrow sections of the canyon where you can almost touch both sides with your outstretched arms.

• Arrive in Chongqing -- Liberation Monument -- Hongyadong
• 4-stars Hotel
• Breakfast

After arriving in Chongqing, make your way to the Liberation Monument. The Liberation Monument is not only a landmark of Chongqing but also a bustling commercial center. You can admire the architectural style of the monument here and soak in the modern urban atmosphere of Chongqing. 

In the afternoon, you can first stroll around the area of Hongyadong and admire its unique architectural style of traditional Bayu stilted houses. You can also visit attractions like "Hongya Dripping Green" (on the 4th floor) and the "Reunion 1980 Block" (on the 5th floor).

• Three Gorges Museum--Liziba--Ciqikou Ancient Town--Zhangjiajie
• 4-stars Hotel
• Breakfast

After braekfast, kick off your day at the Three Gorges Museum. It is a remarkable cultural institution that showcases the profound history and unique culture of the Three Gorges region. Housed within its walls are a vast array of precious collections, including ancient cultural relics that date back thousands of years, vividly demonstrating the lives and wisdom of our ancestors who lived in this area. There are also detailed historical documents and beautiful artworks that tell the story of the Three Gorges from different perspectives. You can stroll through the exhibition halls, admire the exquisite exhibits, and get a comprehensive understanding of the region's past.

Next, have lunch and make your way to Liziba. This place has gained worldwide fame due to its extraordinary sight - the light rail train passing through a residential building. It's a perfect blend of modern transportation and urban architecture, creating a truly astonishing visual effect. As the trains shuttle in and out of the building at regular intervals, you can stand on the viewing platform, take pictures of this unique scene, and marvel at the innovative design that makes it possible. It's a great opportunity to experience the unique charm of Chongqing's urban landscape.

After that, head to Ciqikou Ancient Town. This ancient town is like a living history book. With its well-preserved ancient streets paved with stone slabs, it exudes a strong historical and cultural ambience. Along the streets, there are countless traditional shops. You can find all kinds of local handicrafts, such as delicate embroidery, hand-carved wooden items, and colorful folk paintings. And when it comes to food, it's a paradise for foodies. Don't miss the chance to taste the famous local snacks like Chen Mahua (fried dough twist), which is crispy and fragrant, and other special treats. There are also some ancient residences and temples that are worth visiting, allowing you to peek into the past lives of the local people. 

Once you've fully enjoyed the experiences in Ciqikou Ancient Town, it's time to head to the high-speed rail station. Board a high-speed train bound for Zhangjiajie. The journey usually takes around 3 hours. During the trip, you can relax in your seat.

• Zhangjiajie National Forest Park--Huangshizhai--Yuanjiajie Scenic Area

• 4-stars Hotel

• Breakfast

After breakfast, you will go to the depths of Zhangjiajie National Park.

First, you will come to Huangshizhai (1,200 meters) is one of the largest and most concentrated viewpoints in Zhangjiajie Forest Park

Next you will start the tour of Yuanjiajie Scenic Area,  where there are many towering stone pillars, including the South  Heavenly Pillar, which is a realistic facsimile of the Avatar Hallelujah  Mountain, reaching 150 meters high. This unique landscape makes you  marvel at the magic and greatness of nature.

Then you will walk into the Jinbianxi Canyon, which is a 5,700-meter-long winding and deep canyon with clear water in all seasons and picturesque scenery all around. On the way, you will also see the peculiar "Piggy carrying his daughter-in-law" rocks.

Finally, you will come to the Ten Mile Gallery, where the scenery is so picturesque and beautiful. You can take a relaxing tour on a sightseeing tram to change the perspective and view of the scenery.

• Zhangjiajie Tianmen Mountain Forest Park 
• 4-stars Hotel
• Breakfast

In the morning, you will visit the Tianmen Mountain.

First, you'll come to the Tianmen Cave, which is a natural cave through the mountain at the highest altitude in the world, it is famous for its unique location and spectacular scenery.

Next, you will ride the Tianmen Mountain Ropeway, which is 7,455 meters long and one of the longest alpine passenger ropeways in the world. As the ropeway slowly ascends, you will have a breathtaking view of the entire Zhangjiajie city.

At the end of the ropeway is the legendary "Stairway to Heaven", a 999-step stairway that seems like a giant dragon winding its way through the mountains. You can choose to step on the 999 stone steps, the highest diagonal  angle up to 45 °, as if the sky ladder hanging straight up to the sky.

Climbing to the top, you will arrive at the Tang Dynasty Tianmen Temple,  a Buddhist shrine tucked away amidst verdant greenery and one of only five remaining Buddhist temples in the world to preserve the remains of a  Buddha statue.

Continuing on, you will come to the West Line Glass Trail, which is built along the edge of the end of the world, and walking on it you can clearly see the ten-thousand-fathom deep valley under your feet, which brings you a strong sense of excitement and shock.

You will also visit Li Na Villa , the former retreat of a famous singer.

Finally, you will come to the Seventy-two Strange Buildings. It is the world's tallest Xiangxi hammock-shaped building. You can eat here and buy a variety of specialty souvenirs and handicrafts.

• Zhangjiajie--Hong Kong (high-speed train)
• 4-stars Hotel
• Breakfast

Take a high-speed train from Zhangjiajie to Hong Kong. The journey usually takes about 6 hours. During this time, you can sit back and relax in the comfortable train carriage. Enjoy the changing scenery outside the window as you travel across different regions. You can also read a book, listen to music or have a chat with your fellow passengers to make the time pass pleasantly.

Upon your arrival in Hong Kong, check into your hotel and take a moment to relax after your journey. The city buzzes with energy and offers a wealth of options for exploration. Once you’re settled, you have the freedom to embark on various activities at your own pace.

You might consider taking a leisurely stroll along Victoria Harbour to enjoy stunning views of the skyline, or explore the vibrant streets of Mong Kok, famous for its markets and local eateries. For a taste of culture, visit a nearby temple or shop for unique souvenirs in one of the bustling bazaars. As the sun sets, the city comes alive with dazzling lights—perfect for an evening walk or a ride on the Star Ferry. Whatever you choose, the possibilities are endless as you begin your adventure in this dynamic city!

• Route A: Victoria Peak -- Repulse Bay -- Victoria Harbour (Night Star Ferry view of Hong Kong, New Year's Eve)

• Route B: Citywalk: Tsim Sha Tsui -- Avenue of Stars -- Yau Ma Tei -- Mong Kok

• 4-stars hotel

• Breakfast&Lunch

Itinerary A: Explore Victoria Peak, relax at Repulse Bay, and enjoy a night cruise on Victoria Harbour aboard the Star Ferry to take in the stunning skyline as the city lights up for New Year's Eve.
Itinerary B: Discover the vibrant city life with a city walk through Tsim Sha Tsui, take in the views along Avenue of Stars, visit Yau Ma Tei, and immerse yourself in the bustling atmosphere of Mong Kok.

Hong Kong is the world's third-largest financial center, playing a vital role in international trade, shipping, and innovation. This city beautifully blends Eastern and Western cultures, making it a paradise for tourists, food lovers, and shoppers alike. With English, Mandarin, and Cantonese widely spoken, you won’t have to worry about language barriers. We recommend exploring Hong Kong at your own pace, and if needed, we can provide a language-specific guide and private transportation for your convenience.

• Hong Kong Departure
• Breakfast

As your journey comes to an end, we will arrange for your transfer from Hong Kong to the airport or train station. Our professional driver will meet you at your accommodation, ensuring a smooth and comfortable departure.

This is an excellent opportunity to reflect on the unforgettable experiences and memories you’ve created during your travels. If you have specific preferences or requirements for your transfer, we are happy to customize the itinerary to suit your needs.

Whether you need assistance with luggage or have any last-minute sightseeing requests, our team is here to help. Please don’t hesitate to reach out to us with any inquiries or special arrangements you may need. We wish you safe travels and hope to welcome you back soon for another adventure!