8-Day Hong Kong-Yangtze River-Shanghai Tour

Victoria Peak. As the highest point in Hong Kong, the visibility from Victoria Peak is outstanding – you will literally feel you’re high amongst it and looking directly out over Hong Kong’s incredible cityscape. No stop at the Peak is complete without a ride on the Peak Tram and a wander along the Sky Terrace (both included). Journey on to Repulse Bay, a typical Hong Kong beach that is now famous for its eye-wateringly priced real estate – reputed to be the most expensive in Hong Kong. After soaking in the vibe of the bay, you’ll be transported to Stanley Market, the quintessential Hong Kong street market. Known for its collection of typically Chinese curios, collectibles and souvenirs, you’ll have the opportunity to make a purchase or two without the hassle of haggling. Dive into Hong Kong history with a visit to the water-based Aberdeen Fishing Village, an enduring example of Hong Kong’s traditional fishing culture. It’s a great place to try fresh, delicious seafood dishes too, so be sure to ‘save yourself’ for a memorable meal here. Top off the day’s adventure with a Sampan ride on the water. Cruise past the impressive yachts and smaller boats moored on the water while taking in busy harbour life.

Note: Today’s activities are a half day and will be conducted in the morning, however an afternoon Hongkong Island half day tour is also available on request allowing you to adjust to local time. Your local guide can provide advice on lunch, and afternoon and evening activities, including a street or local cuisine food tour and night view of Victoria Harbour. Just ask us!

Meals included: Breakfast

Enjoy vibrant Hong Kong in the morning, perhaps sharing a morning coffee among locals or visiting one of the many famous street markets in proximity to your hotel. With help from your local guide, you’ll be driven to the airport for your flight to Chongqing. Upon arrival in Chongqing your local guide will meet you and take you through the Ciqikou Old Town if the travel schedule permits. Time to relax as you embark on your Yangtze River cruise, which weighs anchor at 9.30pm. With your safety foremost in mind, attendance at a safety, orientation and river briefing is required when you board the ship. For your first evening on board, enjoy watching the night lights of Chongqing go by from the ship’s deck.

Meals included: Breakfast

A relaxed cruise is the ideal way to enjoy the scenery and history found on both sides of the river. Take advantage of the ship crew’s hospitality and learn about China’s longest river, which has inspired poets and peasants alike. The cruise has optional shore excursions at various sights of historical significance and today you can visit Fengdu Ghost City or Shibaozhai, depending on the water level and cruise company you are traveling with. The evening is the time to connect with other travelers and join the crew at the Captain’s Welcome Party. Sit back and enjoy the Chinese folk dancing and music performance – or get up and be part of it!

Meals included: Breakfast, lunch and dinner

Note: Shore excursions may vary depending on different cruise lines. Please note that some are optional tours and not included in the total cruise price.

Want to explore more? Visit scenic spots along the way: According to Chinese mythology, Fengdu Ghost City is considered the final resting place for all souls. Visit this ancient ghost town while on your Yangtze River Cruise. Shibaozhai is a tower nearly 56 metres in height leaning against the Yuyin Hill. Since construction of the Three Gorges Dam project in 2003, there is a moat surrounding it.

Apart from its fame as the one of the world’s great rivers, the Yangtze is also famous for its magnificent gorges. With today’s cruising you’ll see Qutang Gorge and Wu Gorge.  For those interested in getting even closer to the gorges, there is the chance to take an excursion to Badong where you can enjoy a small wooden boat trip on Shennong Stream or Goddess Stream (Shennv Stream). It’s the kind of experience which allows you to reflect on the strength and resilience of the local people who call the region home. Return to the ship and enter the western section of the Xiling Gorge, the last of the famous Three Gorges. In the evening, the cruise ship may pass through the massive ship locks if weather permits.

Meals included: Breakfast, lunch and dinner

On your final day of cruising, you’ll disembark from the cruise boat at Maoping Pier in Yichang. A guided bus trip will educate you about the largest hydroelectric project in the world, the Three Gorges Dam. Locals are extremely proud of the design, construction, and industry which is now fundamental to their life and region. After the tour, you’ll be transferred by shuttle bus to the Yichang Three Gorges Tourism Center. Our guide will meet you here and together you’ll drive to the airport/train station for your departure flight or train to Shanghai.

Meals included: Breakfast

Notes:

1. Guests may also choose the optional tour when disembarking at Maoping Pier. Board a ferry and sail through TGP ship's elevator where you can enjoy a tour of the Three Gorges Dam. Arrangements for this tour are to be made onboard the cruise prior to disembarking.
2. We may adjust to arrange travel by bullet train instead of a flight between Yichang and Shanghai, as flight availability is limited particularly during the low season.

Shanghai is truly an international city and you’ll understand why when you start your day by visiting the Shanghai Museum home to over 140,000 artifacts. Explore on your own or listen to your guide share the full history and culture of this cosmopolitan city.

Few places capture the intersection of commerce and culture in Shanghai like The Bund. Famous for its location in proximity to the trading centre of Shanghai, the Bund is an outstanding example of old Shanghai glamour. While shopping may not be front of mind, a walk through the busiest shopping precinct in China, Nanjing Road, will open your eyes to shopping China-style. Big high street fashion stores sit alongside quirky silk traders and shops selling every imaginable thing.

Gain an insight to the life and prestige of local merchants from times past when you visit Yuyuan Garden. The beautifully designed buildings and stunning gardens are a welcome reprieve from Shanghai’s big city bustle. You’ll find plenty to capture in beautiful travel memories. Stroll around the nearby Yu Garden Bazaar that offers an eclectic cross-section of goods, from souvenirs, antiques, crafts, fresh produce, and food. Make the most of your afternoon by wandering the quieter streets of Dongping Road or Sinan Road in the Former French Concession, where you will find the essence of classic Shanghai captured in this historical retail and residential precinct.

Meals included: Breakfast

Note: As the Shanghai Museum is closed to public on Mondays, a visit to the Shanghai History Museum is arranged as an alternative.

Looking for iconic Shanghai mementos to remember your travel adventure? Talk to your local guide. With personal knowledge of where to find silk, porcelain, and other treasures, your guide can save you time and ensure your purchase is authentic.

Spend the final morning of your tour exploring for beautiful mementos of your travels. If in doubt, be sure to talk to your guide. They can help you find exactly what you want before your final departure. Your guide will collect you from hotel at the appropriate time and transport you to the airport catch your departure flight.

Meals included: Breakfast

Travel note: We love helping our customers make the most of their available travel time. Need assistance planning your next destination? We can help. With a network that spans across China, we can take care of every detail and arrange your departure train or flight from Shanghai – or anywhere else while you’re in China. (A surcharge will apply).