Ancient Empires of China and Japan

Ancient Empires of China and Japan Overview

The ultimate tour for those wanting to experience the highlights of two fascinating ancient nations. Travel from Beijing to Tokyo by road, boat, rail, and air on this epic 3-week journey filled with culture, history, cuisine, and unforgettable scenery.

Tour Inclusions

• Fully Inclusive: All guiding services and entrance fees included

• Flights: International flights & current taxes included

• Accommodation: 18 nights in 3+ to 4-star hotels

• Meals Included:

  • 18 Breakfasts

  • 17 Lunches

  • 18 Dinners

• Visas: Fees covered for UK passport holders

• Cruises Included:

  • Li River Cruise

  • Huangpu River Cruise

  • Tokyo Bay Cruise

• Group Size: Maximum 28 travellers

• Physical Rating: 1/5 – Light walking, some steps

Authentic Experiences

This tour is packed with once-in-a-lifetime moments, thoughtfully curated to bring you deeper into the cultural and historical heart of China and Japan. Many experiences are exclusive to this itinerary.

Tour Highlights

• Walk the Great Wall of China

• Marvel at the Terracotta Warriors

• Cruise the scenic Li River

• Visit Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park

• Discover Kyoto’s temples and geishas

• Soak in Tokyo’s modern vibrancy

• Enjoy traditional tea ceremonies and local cuisine

Ancient Empires of China & Japan – 20-Day Itinerary

Days 1–2: UK ➝ Beijing

Fly overnight to China’s historic capital, Beijing. Upon arrival, the day is yours to start soaking in the local culture (subject to arrival time).

Day 3: Walk on the Great Wall

Visit the iconic Great Wall of China, followed by a relaxing stroll through the beautiful Summer Palace. End the day with a traditional Peking Duck dinner.

Day 4: Forbidden City & Local Life

• Morning visit to the Temple of Heaven with locals practising Tai Chi.
• Walk through traditional hutong neighbourhoods and visit a local family home.
• Explore Tiananmen Square and the Forbidden City.

Day 5: Travel to Xi’an

Board a high-speed bullet train to Xi’an. Spend the evening exploring the Muslim Quarter, then enjoy a Shui Jiao dumpling dinner and Tang Dynasty show.

Day 6: Terracotta Warriors

• Visit the world-famous Terracotta Army.
• Stop at a local workshop recreating the warriors.
• Walk the 14th-century city walls of Xi’an.

Day 7: Fly to Guilin

Transfer to the airport and fly to Guilin, known for its breathtaking limestone landscapes.

Day 8: Li River Cruise to Yangshuo

• Cruise the Li River through dramatic karst scenery.
• Arrive in Yangshuo, walk along West Street, and explore local markets.

Day 9: Return to Guilin & Fly to Shanghai

Travel back to Guilin, then fly to the vibrant, modern city of Shanghai.

Day 10: Explore Shanghai

• Visit the Yu Garden and Old Town
• Discover silk production at a local factory
• Enjoy leisure time on The Bund and Nanjing Road
• Evening Huangpu River cruise

Day 11: Fly to Osaka, Japan

Depart China and arrive in Osaka, Japan.

Day 12: Osaka Castle & Dotonbori

• Explore Osaka Castle
• Cruise the Yodogawa River
• Enjoy lunch and sightseeing in Dotonbori

Day 13: Okayama & Kurashiki ➝ Hiroshima

• Visit Korakuen Garden
• Stroll through Kurashiki’s Bikan Historical Quarter
• Travel onward to Hiroshima

Day 14: Hiroshima & Miyajima

• Ferry to Miyajima Island and visit Itsukushima Shrine
• Explore Peace Memorial Park & Museum
• Ascend Orizuru Tower for panoramic city views

Day 15: Kyoto Highlights

• Bullet train to Kyoto, Japan’s ancient capital
• Visit Ryoanji Temple and the Golden Pavilion (Kinkakuji)

Day 16: Cultural Kyoto

• Visit the iconic Fushimi Inari Shrine
• Explore Nishiki Market
• Experience a Japanese tea ceremony and try origami

Day 17: Hakone & Mount Fuji

• Bullet train to Hakone
• Cruise Lake Ashi and ride the Komagatake Ropeway
• Onward travel to Tokyo

Day 18: Discover Tokyo

• Ascend the Tokyo Skytree
• Visit Asakusa & Sensoji Temple
• Drive past the Imperial Palace Plaza
• Visit Meiji Jingu Shrine
• End with a Tokyo Bay dinner cruise

Day 19–20: Fly Tokyo ➝ UK

Transfer to the airport for your return flight to the UK, arriving the same or following day.