Hong Kong to Beijing: Food Stalls & Waterfalls

Now's the time to explore China on your terms with this tour that's affordable for young travellers. Soak in the vibrant pulse of China with like-minded travel buddies with a thirst for adventure. Enjoy 14 days of access to China's major sights and out-of-the-way gems with the freedom to choose those that are up your alley. Get familiar with bustling Beijing, have close encounters with pandas in Chengdu, opt to visit the Terracotta Warriors in Xi'an, and learn about kung fu at the Shaolin Temple. It's an experience so rich and incredible, you'll run out of hashtags once you get to posting.

Day 1 Hong Kong
Arrive at any time.

For your first night out, head down to Kowloon and experience the spectacular light show at Victoria Harbour. Get to know your fellow travellers and snap that iconic photo with the neon city backdrop. Afterward, opt for a traditional Cantonese dinner in a local restaurant and share stories over some Dim Sum.

Day 2 Hong Kong/Yangshuo
Board a bullet train and enjoy the scenic ride to Guilin, then transfer to the nearby village of Yangshuo. The Li River and limestone karst mountains interspersed with picturesque riverside villages and markets make this area perhaps the best known scenic attraction in the region. A backpacker haven for activities, cultural immersion, and relaxing at cafés.

Day 3 Yangshuo
Wake up early in this luscious wonderland to catch the sun rising over the bounding karst mountains and morning mist flowing through the valley for a sight you won't want to miss. Spend the rest of the day immersing yourself in the community, learning tai chi, or cycling through the countryside. Opt to visit the G Adventures supported Jia Community Restaurant, run by women, and check out the Yangshuo nightlife at some of the fun riverside bars.

Day 4 Yangshuo
Yangshuo is too beautiful for only one day, so enjoy another to explore the way you want. If you're feeling active, climb Moon Hill for a breathtaking view of the region or take a kung fu lesson. If you're craving a more relaxing day, try your hand at a Chinese cooking class or stroll through the countryside. Tonight, check out the Impression Liu Sanjie Culture Show which lights up the Li River.

Day 5 Yangshuo/Chengdu
Get cozy on a bullet train and take in the scenery on the ride to Chengdu, known for its Giant Panda Conservation Centre and spicy food, UNESCO's first ever "City of Gastronomy." On arrival, settle into your accommodation and enjoy a relaxing evening.

Day 6 Chengdu
Chengdu is your oyster today, so see where this unique city takes you. Follow your heart to Leshan's giant Buddha or Wenshu Monastery. Or follow your nose on a foodie tour via tuk-tuk or to a drink at He Ming Teahouse.

Day 7 Chengdu/Xi'an
Choose to rise early and say hello to the giant pandas at the conservation centre before taking a high-speed train to Xi'an, the eastern end of the Silk Road and perfect balance between modernity and ancient traditions.

Day 8 Xi'an
Embark on an orientation walk through the Muslim Quarter, then opt to visit the Terracotta Warriors, cycle the ancient city walls, or practice tai chi with the local people. For your big night out, head to a karaoke bar with your new friends and sing your heart out!

Day 9 Xi'an/Luoyang
Catch the morning train to the ancient city of Luoyang, thought to be where Chinese civilization originated. Arrive in the afternoon, and opt to visit the UNESCO site of Longmen Grottoes where giant Buddhist statues are intricately chiseled in limestone cliffs stretching over 1 kilometre.

Day 10 Luoyang/Song Shan
Catch the public bus with an overnight pack to Song Shan, a holy mountain area best known for Shaolin Temple and the birthplace of kung-fu. One of the five sacred Daoist Mountains of China, Dengfeng Shan, or Mount Song, is a unique rock mountain containing many valleys, caves, pools, waterfalls, and steep cliffs. Hike the surrounding countryside and get a glimpse into this sacred natural area.

Day 11 Song Shan/Beijing
In the morning, explore Shaolin Temple - birth place of China Zen Buddhism and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Established in 495 AD, martial arts have been practiced here for 1500 years as a way to practice Zen Buddhism. After getting your zen kung fu on, pick up your bags from Luoyang and take a bullet train to Beijing.

Day 12 Beijing
Welcome to Beijing, China's bustling capital, and one of the world's most impressive and vibrant cities. Spend the day exploring on your own terms with limitless options. Visit the Forbidden City, the core of Beijing and the world's largest imperial palace. People watch in Tiananmen Square or check out the unique art galleries at Factory 798. Later, wander through Beijing's lively streets and see where the night takes you.

Day 13 Beijing
Enjoy another day in Beijing to experience a different side of the city. Choose to step back in time with a visit to the Great Wall, a monumental feat of engineering intended to protect China from northern barbarians. Climb the rolling hills, take in the scenery, and explore the wall capturing iconic photos from the watch towers.

Day 14 Beijing
Today is departure day, but don't fret! There is no such thing as goodbye, only until next time. Share last laughs and exchange social medias with your newfound friends before heading on your way. Depart at any time.