First Time in China: Iconic Cities, Rich Culture & Stunning Landscapes

I always think Beijing is the perfect introduction to China. It's where the country's imperial history comes to life, from magnificent palaces and ancient temples to the Great Wall stretching across the hills.

After a long flight, arriving in Beijing can feel a bit overwhelming, which is why I highly recommend a VIP arrival service. You'll be met at the gate and escorted through expedited immigration, customs, and baggage claim for a seamless arrival experience.

Once you're through the airport, your private guide will be waiting to welcome you and transfer you comfortably to your hotel so you can relax and settle in.

Today, you'll explore two very different sides of Beijing.

You'll start at the Forbidden City, the vast imperial palace that was home to China's emperors for centuries. Walking through its grand courtyards and halls is one of the best ways to connect with the country's rich history. Just across the street, a short walk up Jingshan Hill offers my favorite panoramic view of the palace and the city beyond.

Later, you'll wander through Beijing's historic hutongs, where daily life unfolds in a maze of narrow alleyways and traditional courtyard homes. This is one of my favorite ways to experience the city—slowing down, observing local life, and discovering stories you won't find in guidebooks. Along the way, you'll visit the home of a man famous for raising fighting crickets, a fascinating local tradition that offers a glimpse into a side of Beijing that few visitors ever see.

Today, you'll make the 2.5-hour drive to Jinshanling, my favorite section of the Great Wall and, in my opinion, one of the most rewarding experiences near Beijing.

Unlike the busier sections, Jinshanling feels more remote and authentic, with a beautiful mix of restored and original Ming Dynasty wall winding through the mountains. After a short ride, you'll set out on a guided hike past ancient watchtowers and along dramatic ridgelines, with incredible views at every turn.

For me, this is the Great Wall at its best—less crowded, rich in history, and a chance to truly appreciate the scale and beauty of one of the world's most remarkable landmarks.

Today, you'll travel to Chengdu, a city I love for its relaxed pace, incredible food scene, and strong sense of local culture. Best known as the home of China's giant pandas, Chengdu offers a completely different side of the country, where centuries-old traditions blend effortlessly with modern city life.

Upon arrival, your local guide will be there to welcome you and accompany you to your hotel. This evening, you'll experience one of Sichuan's most iconic traditions: the famous Face-Changing Opera. With colourful costumes, live music, acrobatics, and the mesmerising art of changing masks in the blink of an eye, it's a fun and memorable introduction to Chengdu's unique cultural heritage.

Today is all about experiencing Chengdu like a local. You'll explore the charming Kuan Zhai Alleyways, one of my favorite places to soak up the city's relaxed atmosphere, with its historic architecture, cafés, shops, and street food.

Later, you'll visit Wangjianglou Park, where locals gather to practice tai chi, play mahjong, and enjoy tea along the river. You'll also experience a traditional Kung Fu tea performance, a uniquely Chengdu tradition.

To end the day, you'll visit a local spice market before joining a hands-on cooking class, where you'll learn to prepare some of Sichuan's most iconic dishes alongside a local chef.

Today, you'll head to the Dujiangyan Panda Base, one of my favorite places to see giant pandas. The setting feels much more natural than a traditional zoo, and offers a deeper look into the conservation efforts helping protect these remarkable animals.

Later, you'll make your way to the foothills of Qingcheng Mountain for a private Kung Fu experience. Beyond learning a few movements, you'll gain insight into the philosophy and Taoist traditions that have shaped this region for centuries, making it a truly memorable cultural experience.

Today, you'll fly to Zhangjiajie, home to some of the most spectacular landscapes in China. Famous for its towering sandstone peaks that inspired the floating mountains in ”Avatar,” this region feels almost otherworldly.

After settling into your hotel, you'll visit Baofeng Lake, where a peaceful boat ride offers a wonderful introduction to Zhangjiajie's dramatic scenery, surrounded by lush mountains and waterfalls.

If you're interested in local culture, an alternative option is visiting a traditional Tujia Brocade Workshop, where you'll learn about the centuries-old weaving traditions of the Tujia people and watch skilled artisans at work.

Today, you'll explore some of Zhangjiajie's most iconic landscapes. A cable car ride takes you up to Yellow Stone Village, where you'll enjoy sweeping views of the towering sandstone peaks and dramatic scenery that make this region so unforgettable.

Later, you'll visit the famous Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon Glass Bridge. Suspended high above the canyon, it offers incredible views and a bit of excitement for those willing to look down. Whether you're here for the adventure or the scenery, it's an experience that's hard to forget.

Today is all about immersing yourself in the extraordinary landscapes that make Zhangjiajie so famous. You'll explore Tianzi Mountain and Yuanjiajie, home to some of the region's most spectacular views, with towering sandstone peaks, deep valleys, and the scenery that inspired the floating mountains in "Avatar."

You'll also ride the impressive Bailong Elevator, built directly into the cliffs, before descending for a relaxing walk along Golden Whip Stream. Surrounded by forests, crystal-clear water, and dramatic rock formations, it's the perfect way to experience a quieter side of the national park.

This morning, you'll visit Tianmen Mountain, one of the most impressive natural landmarks in the region. A scenic cable car ride takes you to the summit, where you'll find dramatic mountain views, cliffside walkways, and the famous Heaven's Gate arch carved into the mountainside. If you're feeling adventurous, the glass sky walk offers a memorable perspective high above the valley below.

Later, you'll fly to Shanghai, a city I love for its energy and contrasts. After the natural beauty of Zhangjiajie, Shanghai offers a completely different side of China, where historic neighborhoods and colonial architecture sit alongside soaring skyscrapers and a vibrant modern culture.

Today, you'll explore the contrasts that make Shanghai so special. You'll start with a walk along The Bund and Suzhou Creek, where historic colonial buildings face the city's futuristic skyline across the river. It's one of my favorite places to really feel Shanghai's transformation over time.

Later, you'll head into the Former French Concession, one of the city's most charming areas. You'll wander along leafy streets lined with old villas, cafés, and quiet parks, getting a more relaxed, local feel for Shanghai beyond the modern skyscrapers.

Today, you'll experience Shanghai from a different angle with a scenic e-bike ride along the Huangpu River. It's one of my favorite ways to see the city—passing historic waterfronts, futuristic skyscrapers, creative spaces, and lively riverside neighborhoods all in one route.

If biking isn't your thing, you can opt for a more relaxed day exploring Fuxing Park, where locals gather for daily life, and the beautiful Yu Garden, a classic Ming Dynasty garden filled with pavilions, koi ponds, and traditional architecture.

Later, you'll dive into China's tech-forward side with visits to flagship stores like Huawei, DJI, and Xiaomi, followed by an immersive VR experience inspired by ancient China.

It’s time to say goodbye to China. Your private chauffeur will drive you to the airport and help you check in to your flight.

Until next time!