BESPOKE LUXURY JOURNEY

China: Ancient to Avant-Garde

Where timeless traditions embrace contemporary sophistication

From the mist-shrouded heights of the Great Wall to the glittering sophistication of Shanghai’s contemporary art scene, China weaves an intoxicating tapestry of experiences that defy simple categorisation. Here, ancient dynasties whisper their secrets through vermillion gates and jade gardens, while ambitious megacities push the boundaries of architectural possibility. This is a land where traditional medicine shops share streets with Michelin-starred restaurants, and where thousand-year-old temples cast shadows over designer boutiques. Through it all runs a golden thread of hospitality that transforms every moment into an art form of gracious welcome.

China at a Glance

In China’s sophisticated urban centres, a quiet revolution of inclusivity blooms behind Art Deco facades and within sleek cocktail bars. Shanghai’s French Concession pulses with creative energy, where design-forward spaces welcome diverse crowds, and historic lanes house thoughtfully curated galleries celebrating both established and emerging voices. Beijing’s 798 Art District exemplifies this progressive spirit, where contemporary artists challenge conventions in converted factory spaces, and where international influences merge seamlessly with local traditions.

The rhythm of Chinese life flows like the mighty Yangtze itself, each season painting the landscape in distinctive hues. Spring brings cherry blossoms to ancient temple gardens, while autumn gilds the Great Wall in crimson and gold. Summer evenings in Shanghai see the Bund promenade come alive with a sophisticated parade of gallery openings and rooftop soirées, while winter transforms the Forbidden City into a snow-draped masterpiece of imperial grandeur. Throughout the year, luxury hotels and sophisticated restaurants create safe spaces where traditional hospitality meets contemporary inclusivity.

13-Day Travel Itinerary

This carefully curated journey traverses China's most compelling landscapes and cultural treasures, weaving together imperial splendour with contemporary sophistication. Begin in Beijing, where ancient courtyard houses neighbour cutting-edge architectural statements, before discovering the warrior spirit of Xi'an and the culinary artistry of Chengdu. The journey crescendos with a luxurious cruise through the Three Gorges, where nature's majesty provides a stunning backdrop to refined riverside living, before concluding in Shanghai's cosmopolitan embrace. Each day unfolds as its own chapter in this grand narrative, where luxury finds expression in thoughtfully curated experiences that reveal China's many faces.

DAY 1

Beijing | First Whispers of Imperial Grandeur

Arrive in China's capital, where centuries of imperial might blend seamlessly with contemporary creativity. After your private transfer to the sophisticated Aman Summer Palace—where private pavilions echo with the whispers of imperial history—settle into the rhythm of Beijing life with a gentle evening stroll through the hotel's private gate into the Summer Palace grounds. As twilight descends, savour your first taste of refined Chinese cuisine at TRB Forbidden City, where innovative presentations meet historic views.

DAY 2

Beijing | Where Ancient Wisdom Meets Modern Spirit

Greet the day alongside local residents practicing tai chi in the UNESCO-listed Temple of Heaven, where ancient rituals still paint the morning air with grace. Your private guide weaves together tales of emperors and revolutions as you explore the vast expanse of Tiananmen Square before entering the Forbidden City, where 9,999 rooms once housed the mysteries of imperial life. The afternoon unfolds in the progressive 798 Art District, where contemporary galleries and design studios have transformed industrial spaces into Beijing's creative heart.

DAY 3

Beijing and the Great Wall | Embracing Timeless Majesty

Morning light filters through ancient hutong alleyways as you glide by pedicab through these historic neighbourhoods, where traditional courtyard homes now house boutique coffee roasters and designer ateliers. Journey north to the Great Wall at Mutianyu, where a private cable car ascent reveals one of humanity's greatest achievements draped across mist-shrouded peaks. Consider the Brickyard at Mutianyu, a thoughtfully renovated tile factory where modernist glass walls frame perfect Wall views, for an overnight stay that bridges past and present.

DAY 4

Xi'an | Where Silk Road Stories Begin

Wings carry you west to Xi'an, once the glittering eastern terminus of the Silk Road. Settle into the urbane sophistication of the Sofitel Legend People's Grand Hotel, where French elegance meets Tang Dynasty grandeur. As afternoon shadows lengthen, explore the vibrant Muslim Quarter, where centuries of cultural exchange manifest in bustling lanes fragrant with cumin and saffron. Your evening begins with sundowners at the hotel's elegant 1953 Lobby Bar, where Art Deco sophistication meets contemporary mixology.

DAY 5

Xi'an | Warriors and Whispers of Empire

Dawn breaks over Xi'an's ancient city walls as you prepare for an encounter with the Terracotta Warriors. Your private guide reveals the intimate details of this vast clay army, each face unique, each warrior telling its own tale of Emperor Qin's ambition. Afternoon finds you atop Xi'an's magnificent city walls, where a private heritage specialist illuminates the city's evolution from imperial capital to contemporary cultural hub. As evening approaches, experience the Tang Dynasty's cultural legacy through a private dinner performance where ancient music meets contemporary gastronomy.

DAY 6

Chengdu | Spice and Sophistication

Speed west aboard China's sleek high-speed rail network to Chengdu, where Sichuan spice meets pandas and tea house culture. The Temple House welcomes you with its brilliant fusion of Qing Dynasty heritage and modernist luxury. After a private masterclass in the art of Sichuan cuisine, join locals in the People's Park, where traditional musicians and calligraphers practice ancient arts amid bamboo groves. Your evening unfolds at the Yu Zhi Lan, where chef Lan Guijun elevates Sichuan cuisine to new heights of refinement.

DAY 7

Chengdu to Yangtze | From Pandas to River Poetry

Morning brings you face to face with China's beloved giant pandas at the Chengdu Research Base, where your private guide shares insights into conservation efforts. As afternoon approaches, board the high-speed train to Chongqing, where your luxurious river vessel awaits. The Sanctuary Yangzi Explorer sets new standards for river cruising, with the largest cabins and highest crew-to-passenger ratio on the Yangtze. Toast the start of your journey with champagne on deck as the lights of Chongqing fade into the gathering dusk.

DAY 8

Yangtze Cruise | Where History Flows Like Water

As morning mist rises from the river, join a tai chi master on deck to greet the day. Your exploration of the 816 Nuclear Military Plant reveals China's Cold War history before returning to the ship for an afternoon of cultural demonstrations and scenic cruising. As sunset approaches, savour innovative Chinese-Western fusion cuisine in the ship's elegant restaurant while dramatic gorge views drift past floor-to-ceiling windows.

DAY 9

Yangtze Cruise | Nature's Grand Theatre

Today the Three Gorges reveal their majesty as you cruise through the narrow valleys of Qutang and Wu. A private shore excursion into the Lesser Three Gorges allows intimate exploration of this dramatic landscape by traditional sampan. Return to the ship for an afternoon lecture on Chinese art and architecture before a special dinner featuring regional specialties from along the river's course.

DAY 10

Yichang to Shanghai | Engineering Marvels and Urban Energy

Bid farewell to river life with a morning visit to the Three Gorges Dam, where your private guide explains how this engineering marvel has transformed China's heartland. Fly to Shanghai, where the sophisticated Peninsula Shanghai welcomes you to the historic Bund. As evening falls, join the city's creative crowd for cocktails at Sir Elly's Rooftop Bar, where Art Deco glamour meets contemporary mixology with spectacular Pudong views.

DAY 11

Shanghai | Where East Embraces West

Start your day with a private guided walk along the Bund, where Shanghai's colonial-era architectural masterpieces tell tales of the city's mercantile history. Discover the peaceful Yu Garden before exploring the contemporary art galleries of M50, where China's artistic avant-garde pushes creative boundaries. Your evening unfolds at Ultraviolet by Paul Pairet, where multi-sensory dining creates an unforgettable fusion of cuisine, technology, and theatrical presentation.

DAY 12

Shanghai | Contemporary Creativity Meets Historic Charm

Today explore Shanghai's historic Jewish Quarter with a heritage expert before discovering the French Concession's hidden lanes, where art galleries and designer boutiques occupy elegant villa compounds. Ascend the Shanghai Tower for afternoon tea with spectacular views before an evening performance at the historic Peace Hotel Jazz Bar, where the legendary Old Jazz Band has performed for over half a century.

DAY 13

Shanghai | A Final Toast to China's Contrasts

Your final morning in China unfolds at your pace. Perhaps start with a private morning art tour of the Power Station of Art, China's first state-run contemporary art museum, or arrange a farewell dim sum brunch at Canton Table, where classic Cantonese dishes meet stunning Bund views.

Additional Recommended Experiences

Enhance your Chinese sojourn with carefully curated extensions that reveal the country's diverse character. Consider a luxury extension to Hangzhou, where the West Lake's legendary beauty has inspired poets for centuries and where the Amanfayun offers sophisticated accommodation in a restored village. Adventure seekers might choose to explore the dramatic karst landscapes of Guilin from the boutique Yangshuo Sugar House hotel, while culture enthusiasts could discover the Tibetan influences of Yunnan province from the sumptuous Banyan Tree Ringha. For deeper cultural immersion, arrange private calligraphy classes with master practitioners, exclusive access to archaeological sites normally closed to the public, or behind-the-scenes tours of Shanghai's contemporary art galleries led by prominent curators. Culinary enthusiasts might enjoy private cooking classes with celebrated chefs or rare tea appreciation ceremonies in historic gardens. Throughout the year, China offers exclusive experiences that match its cultural depth with sophisticated service, ensuring your journey creates memories as dramatic as the landscapes themselves.

Transform Your China Dreams into Reality

Allow us to craft your bespoke China journey. Whether inspired by our curated itinerary or envisioning something entirely your own, we'll shape every moment to reflect your distinctive style and preferences.