Step aboard for an unforgettable 12-day exploration of China’s cultural wonders and modern icons—an immersive luxury tour that blends imperial legacy with contemporary elegance. Stand before the awe-inspiring Terracotta Army in Xi’an, carved in silent tribute to China’s first emperor, then trace the footsteps of dynasties past at Luoyang’s magnificent Longmen Grottoes. Wander Beijing’s palatial Forbidden City and climb the storied stones of the Great Wall before experiencing Shanghai’s glittering skyline from above and afloat.
Craftsmanship takes centre stage in Jingdezhen, where porcelain traditions come to life with hands-on workshops, before you drift through the ethereal Three Gorges on a luxurious Yangtze River cruise. In Chengdu, meet the city’s most beloved residents—giant pandas—and savour the bold flavours of Sichuan cuisine. Then journey south to Guilin, where tranquil rivers and dreamlike peaks evoke the brushstrokes of an ancient painting. Your odyssey concludes in electrifying Hong Kong, where East meets West in a vibrant crescendo of culture, cuisine, and skyline views.
From curated culinary moments to private guides and seamless transfers, this is China at its most captivating—an elegant, all-encompassing adventure through a land where history and innovation meet.
Upon arrival in Xi’an, you will be met and transferred to the five-star Ritz-Carlton hotel for a one-night stay. Take some time to unwind before joining your fellow travellers for a Welcome Reception and Tang Dynasty themed dinner.
Step into the pages of history as you explore Xi’an’s ancient city walls, one of the oldest, largest, and best-preserved defensive structures in the world. Visit the Great Mosque, tucked within the winding alleys of the Muslim Quarter, stroll along the ramparts where imperial guards once stood watch, and take in panoramic views of the old town—a captivating blend of ancient tradition and modern life.
After lunch at a local restaurant, the highlight of your day unfolds with a visit to the world-renowned Terracotta Warriors. Discovered by farmers in 1974, this vast subterranean army—over 6,000 intricately detailed life-sized soldiers, horses, and chariots—was created to protect China’s first emperor, Qin Shi Huang, in the afterlife. Wander through the vast excavation pits and marvel at the individuality of each warrior, from the folds of their armour to the expressions on their faces. This extraordinary archaeological site is a powerful testament to the ambition, artistry, and military might of ancient China and is widely regarded as one of the greatest discoveries of the 20th century.
After a day filled with awe and inspiration, we return to the comfort of the Golden Eagle Silk Road Express for a grand Welcome Dinner onboard.
Awaken in the heart of China’s ancient cradle as the Golden Eagle Silk Road Express arrives into Luoyang, a city with over 4,000 years of history and once the capital of 13 dynasties. Step into a world where time seems to stand still, surrounded by the delicate scent of blooming peonies—Luoyang’s proud emblem—and the distant chime of temple bells. Your journey begins at the awe-inspiring Longmen Grottoes, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where more than 100,000 Buddhist statues and 60 stupas are masterfully carved into the limestone cliffs along the Yi River.
Later, continue to the legendary Shaolin Temple, nestled at the foot of Mount Song, the spiritual birthplace of both Zen Buddhism and Kung Fu. Wander through historic courtyards where monks still train, their graceful martial arts performances breathing life into centuries of tradition. Back in Luoyang’s charming old town, sample local specialities such as the famous water banquet dumplings, a delicious reflection of the city’s Silk Road heritage, before rejoining the Golden Eagle Silk Road Express for a sumptuous dinner onboard.
Today, we step into history with a visit to the legendary Great Wall at Badaling, one of mankind’s greatest architectural triumphs. Wander along this beautifully restored section, taking in the breathtaking vistas of the rugged hills and countryside that stretch to the horizon. For lunch, we gather for a special dining experience: a traditional Peking Duck feast at one of Beijing’s most celebrated restaurants, offering an authentic taste of the capital’s proud culinary traditions.
This afternoon, immerse yourself in the splendour of imperial Beijing with a full-day exploration of its most iconic ancient landmarks: the vast expanse of Tiananmen Square, the timeless majesty of the Forbidden City, and the tranquil beauty of the Summer Palace, with its ornate pavilions and lakeside gardens. Alternatively, choose to uncover the dynamic energy of modern Beijing, visiting architectural masterpieces such as the Olympic Village, the striking CCTV Tower, and the world-class National Museum.
After a day of remarkable sights, conclude with a delicious yet relaxed dinner onboard before arriving in our next destination.
After a leisurely morning and lunch aboard the Golden Eagle Silk Road Express, your Shanghai adventure begins with a visit to the iconic Shanghai Tower—China’s tallest skyscraper. Rising to 632 metres, this architectural marvel is home to the J Hotel’s celestial lounge, where you’ll enjoy an unforgettable afternoon tea on the 120th floor. Sip rare teas and sample exquisite pastries infused with local flavours like lychee and osmanthus, all while gazing out across a breathtaking panorama of cloud-kissed towers and the city’s glittering skyline below.
As evening falls, step aboard a luxurious private yacht for an enchanting night cruise along the Huangpu River. Drift past Shanghai’s illuminated skyline, where the glowing colonial façades of the Bund meet the dazzling skyscrapers of Pudong, including the futuristic Oriental Pearl Tower. As city lights shimmer on the water, enjoy a bespoke dinner blending Shanghainese flair with international cuisine, perfectly paired with fine wines—an unforgettable finale to your time in this cosmopolitan metropolis.
Begin your day in Jingdezhen, China’s legendary porcelain capital, with a visit to the Jingdezhen Chinese Ceramic Museum—a world-class showcase of over 2,000 years of ceramic artistry. Explore galleries filled with Song dynasty celadons and Ming vases, while expert guides share the stories of emperors and artisans who helped shape this global legacy.
Continue to the Ancient Kilns & Folk Customs Expo Area, where centuries-old dragon kilns still burn with tradition. Here, amid restored workshops and wood-fired furnaces, you’ll enjoy a rare opportunity to work alongside master potters. Under their expert guidance, take part in an immersive hands-on porcelain experience—shaping, carving, and painting your own ceramic creation using time-honoured techniques. This unforgettable encounter offers not just a unique keepsake, but a deeper connection to Jingdezhen’s enduring spirit of craftsmanship.
Begin your day in Yichang, the gateway to the majestic Yangtze River, with an exclusive chartered boat trip through the striking Natural Grand Canyon, stretching from the awe-inspiring Three Gorge Dam to Gezhouba. Aboard the luxurious private vessel, we glide through this dramatic stretch of the Yangtze with cameras at the ready. Along the way, admire the scale and ambition of the Three Gorges Dam – the world’s largest hydroelectric power station – and the intricate Gezhouba Dam, both impressive symbols of China’s modern engineering prowess.
As the river unfolds before us, enjoy a leisurely lunch onboard featuring freshly-caught Yangtze fish and Sichuan-inspired delicacies, served with impeccable service and panoramic river views. Whether reclining on deck or taking in the scenery from the comfort of the air-conditioned lounge, this tranquil cruise offers an unforgettable window into the grandeur of the Yangtze.
As the Golden Eagle Silk Road Express glides into Chengdu, the vibrant energy of Sichuan’s capital embraces us. After a sumptuous breakfast onboard, our day of discovery begins at the world-renowned Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding. Here, amidst lush bamboo groves, the sight of these endearing animals sparks instant delight and offers a heartwarming glimpse into one of China’s greatest conservation successes.
Later, we gather at the Sichuan Opera Theatre, exclusively reserved for our group, where the magical world of traditional opera unfolds before us. In an intimate and atmospheric setting, performers in radiant silk costumes captivate with the ancient art of bian lian—the dramatic, lightning-fast face-changing technique that leaves audiences spellbound. Amidst fiery displays, haunting melodies, and graceful choreography, the spirit of Sichuan’s rich artistic heritage is brought vividly to life, making for an unforgettable afternoon of cultural immersion.
Today is yours to relax and enjoy the luxurious amenities of the Golden Eagle Silk Road Express. Take in panoramic views from the elegant Observation Car—boasting the largest train window in China—or unwind in the lounge with a fine selection of wines, cocktails, and the gentle melodies of our resident pianist. With every detail meticulously considered, this is the perfect opportunity to revel in the art of slow, sophisticated travel.
Guilin, nestled in southern China’s Guangxi region, is a serene retreat where natural beauty and cultural heritage meet. Today, we embark on a privately chartered cruise along the Lijiang River, travelling from Guilin to the riverside town of Yangshuo. Along the way, peaceful villages, lush countryside, and striking scenery drift past, offering a tranquil window into rural life.
As evening descends upon Yangshuo, board an exclusive fishing boat for a serene sunset voyage, where we witness the age-old tradition of cormorant fishing—an atmospheric finale to a day immersed in natural wonder. After rejoining the Golden Eagle Silk Road Express, we have our farewell dinner on board, as we depart for Hong Kong.
After a peaceful journey aboard the luxurious Golden Eagle Silk Road Express, we arrive in Shenzhen and make our way across the border into Hong Kong—a city where tradition and innovation sit side by side in dazzling harmony. The afternoon is yours to explore at leisure. You might choose to browse the designer boutiques and heritage streets of Central, admire the city’s iconic skyline from the Tsim Sha Tsui waterfront, or simply unwind in the comfort of your hotel and reflect on your journey.
This evening, we come together for a memorable Farewell Dinner at our hotel—an elegant finale to a once-in-a-lifetime adventure.
On your final day, enjoy a leisurely morning before your private transfer to the airport for your onward journey. As you depart from Hong Kong, take with you lasting memories of ancient wonders, timeless landscapes, and the elegance of travel aboard the Golden Eagle Silk Road Express—an unforgettable adventure through the heart of China.
The Han Dynasty Suite on the Golden Eagle Silk Road Express is a 22.2 sqm private retreat offering the highest level of luxury on board. It features a large double bed, sofa, separate living area, dining and dressing space, plus a 5.2 sqm en-suite with bathtub, shower, and double sinks. Premium touches include a minibar, Dyson hairdryer, smart toilet, and full-length wardrobe. Guests enjoy exceptional privacy, elegance, and comfort, with service beginning in style with a complimentary bottle of Dom Perignon on boarding.
The Superior cabin on the Golden Eagle Silk Road Express offers an elegant retreat, blending comfort and style across 11sqm of thoughtfully designed space. By day, relax in two single sofas, perfect for unwinding as you take in the scenery. By night, the cabin transforms into your choice of twin single beds or a large double bed for restful slumber.
Every detail has been curated for your comfort, with features including a Dyson hairdryer, smart toilet, minibar, full-length wardrobe, and a cosy sofa chair. A 2.5sqm en-suite bathroom completes the experience, offering modern luxury within a setting of timeless design.
