CHINA
Ultimate Luxury China Trip: From Urban Chic to Scenic Wonders
China is a land of contrasts: from bustling metropolises to serene landscapes, ancient history to modern marvels. This luxury itinerary combines culture, nature, and relaxation, with hand-picked stays that define comfort and style. Here’s your perfect route planner.
Best time to go: Late March–May or September–early October
Day 1–3: Shanghai – Urban Chic
Stay: The Middle House
To Do:
Explore the cosmopolitan heart of China with its iconic Bund skyline, French Concession streets, and art districts.
Recommended activities: Huangpu River cruise, Shanghai Tower observation deck, private food tours.
Transport to next stop: Fast train or short domestic flight to Hangzhou (if visiting Amanfayun), then onward to Beijing by flight (~2.5 hours).
Optional Day Trip: Amanfayun – immerse in traditional tea culture and serene landscapes outside the city.
Day 4–6: Beijing – Imperial Grandeur
Stay: at Aman Summer Palace
To Do:
Wake up in a serene oasis near the historic Summer Palace, blending traditional Chinese architecture with Aman’s signature luxury.
Explore Beijing’s iconic sites: the Summer Palace, Forbidden City, and private Peking duck dining.
Transport to next stop: Flight to Chengdu (~3 hours)
Day 5: Beijing – Great Wall Excursion
Full-day private excursion to the Great Wall at Mutianyu or Jinshanling.
Enjoy panoramic, crowd-free views and guided insights into the history of this world wonder.
Return to Aman Summer Palace in the evening.
Day 7–8: Chengdu – Pandas and Culinary Delights
Stay: The House Collective – Temple House
To Do:
Morning visit to the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding – a must for wildlife lovers.
Explore Sichuan cuisine with a private cooking class or hotpot experience.
Transport to next stop: Flight to Xi’an (~2 hours).
Day 9–10: Xi’an – Ancient Wonders
Stay: Sofitel Legend Peopl’s Grand Hotel
To Do:
Marvel at the Terracotta Army at Emperor Qinshihuang’s Mausoleum Site.
Explore Xi’an’s ancient city walls and Muslim Quarter for food and culture.
Transport to next stop: Flight to Guilin (~2 hours) or overnight train (~10–12 hours, if scenic).
Day 11–12: Guilin – Scenic Landscapes
Stay: Shangri-La Hotel, Guilin
To Do:
Cruise the Li River for the iconic karst mountain scenery.
Visit Reed Flute Cave and Seven Star Park.
Transport to next stop: Flight to Lijiang (~2 hours).
Day 13–14: Lijiang – Old Town Charm
Stay: Banyan Tree Lijiang
To Do:
Stroll through the UNESCO-listed Old Town with its cobblestone streets and tea houses.
Cultural immersion with Naxi music performances and local markets.
Transport to next stop: 3-hour private drive to Shangri-La.
Day 15–16: Shangri-La – Tibetan Soul
Stay: Banyan Tree Ringha
To Do:
Explore the Tibetan-style old town and Ganden Sumtseling Monastery.
Enjoy mountain hikes and luxury spa experiences surrounded by nature.
Transport to next stop: Flight to Sanya (~4 hours, with a possible connection in Kunming).
Day 17–20: Sanya – Sun, Sea, and Serenity
Stay: Mandarin Oriental Sanya
To Do:
End your trip with a seaside escape: pristine beaches, water sports, and sunset cocktails.
Optional excursions to nearby islands or luxury yacht tours.