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China, Yangtze River Cruise & Hong Kong plus Bangkok Extension
17 Days from $2199*

Includes airfare, great hotels, transfers and more!

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China, Yangtze River Cruise & Hong Kong plus Bangkok Extension

Girl selling trinkets, China  Photo by Charlie Ridgeway
Girl selling trinkets, China
Photo by Charlie Ridgeway
Join our magnificent 17-day China tours at prices that represent exceptional value for your money! Discover China's 5000-year-old civilization. Behold the beauty of the Three Gorges via our fascinating Yangtze River cruise. Shop the world-renowned bargains in Hong Kong. All this in one of the most affordable China tour packages available today.

Our China tour packages are the best way to explore this unforgettable land. Beijing, the Great Wall, the Ming Tombs, and the buried terra cotta soldiers and horses of Xian are all included. Our Yangtze River cruise takes you through the cradle of Chinese civilization and affords views of awe-inspiring natural beauty as well as one of the engineering wonders of the modern world: the Three Gorges dam project. Our China tour packages conclude with visits to the centuries-old ports of Guangzhou (Canton) and Hong Kong.

Our Touring Program

China & Yangtze River Cruise 17 Day Tour Itinerary Day 1: Depart USA. Your exotic journey to China and Hong Kong begins this evening as you check-in for your Korean Air Boeing 747 jet flight bound for Beijing, China (via Seoul, Korea). Your flight departs late tonight.

Day 2: En Route. Cross the International Date Line and lose one day en route.

Temple of Heaven, Beijing
Temple of Heaven, Beijing
Day 3: Arrive Beijing. Late morning arrival in Beijing, China's vibrant capital. You'll be escorted to your hotel in the heart of downtown Beijing, within a short distance of Tiananmen Square and the Forbidden City. Afternoon tour of the Temple of Heaven followed by welcome dinner. Presidential Plaza Hotel (D)

Forbidden City, Beijing
Forbidden City, Beijing
Day 4: Beijing. Start your day with a visit to Tiananmen Square. You then tour the Forbidden City, an architectural masterpiece and home to the National Palace Museum. After lunch venture outside the city to see the Summer Palace, summer resort of the Empress Dowager, where you'll enjoy a boat ride on the lake. Tonight, visit the renowned Beijing Opera. (B,L)

Great Wall, Beijing
Great Wall, Beijing
Day 5: Great Wall/Ming Tombs. On today's exhilarating excursion you'll mount the ramparts of the legendary Great Wall. This ancient Chinese fortification extends over 3,946 miles and was constructed from the 14th to the 17th century to protect China from the tribes to the north. Proceed to the Ming Tombs, burial site of the Ming dynasty royalty. This evening delight in a special banquet featuring the famous "Peking Duck". (B,L,D)

Emperor Qin's terra cotta warriors, Xian
Emperor Qin's terra cotta warriors, Xian
Day 6: Beijing/Xian. This morning fly to Xian, ancient capital of China for eleven dynasties and historic gateway to the old silk trading route. On a guided excursion visit one of the worlds great archaeological discoveries: a buried army of life-size terra cotta soldiers and horses guarding the tomb of the Emperor Qin Shi. A special treat awaits this evening: savor a delicious banquet and Tang Dynasty spectacular show. ANA Grand Castle Hotel (B,L,D)

Cruising the Yangtze
Cruising the Yangtze
Day 7: Xian/Yichang. Visit the fascinating Shanxi Museum and view the stone carvings and precious art treasures from the ancient Han and Tang Dynasties. Later, fly to Yichang, the gateway to the Yangtze River Gorges and board your luxurious River Cruiser. Settle into your cabin and enjoy the numerous amenities onboard. Set sail late this evening. Victoria Cruises Ship (B,L,D)

Three Gorges Dam & Yangtze River
Three Gorges Dam & Yangtze River
Day 8: Yangtze River Cruise. Spend the day cruising along one of the world's finest stretches of river scenery. First, dock at Sandouping village and visit the ongoing Yangtze Dam project, the world's largest hydroelectric power project. Enjoy a lecture on the progress of the project, view a model of the completed dam and savor the scenic views. Return to your ship and sail through the Three Gorges shiplocks towards the Xiling Gorge, a long, twisting passage through rushing rapids, weathered peaks, landmark caves and temples. Tonight you'll be the Captain's guest at a cocktail reception. (B,L,D)

Lesser Gorges, Yangtze River
Lesser Gorges, Yangtze River
Day 9: Three Gorges. An unforgettable day begins as you sail through the Three Gorges. Proceed through the misty Wu Gorge, its twelve peaks soaring above. Dock in Wushan and board a smaller boat for a thrilling side trip up the Daning River to see the "Small Gorges," presenting some of China's most spectacular scenery. Towering cliffs soar over the narrow river and unique wildlife abound. Your spectacular voyage unfolds as you pass through the last of the Three Gorges: Qutang. This breathtaking narrow passage is the grandest of them all. (B,L,D)

Shibaozhai pagoda
Shibaozhai pagoda
Day 10: Yangtze River. Today, continue your cruise along the Yangtze River. Dock in Shibaozhai, a rural river town where you'll enjoy a shore excursion to see the 400 year old, 12-story wooden pagoda. (On some sailings you may stop instead in Wanxian or the "Ghost Town" of Fengdu. A shore excursion will be included). Tonight, enjoy a farewell banquet and cultural show on board. (B,L,D)

Giant panda, China
Giant panda, China
Day 11: Arrive Chongqing. Disembark in Chongqing, a modern river port with ancient history spanning over 3000 years. Here, enjoy a guided tour of the fascinating General Stilwell Museum, former residence of the US forces commander in the region during World War II and learn more about the renowned Flying Tigers. You'll also delight in a visit to the Panda Pavillion at the lovely zoo. Later, explore the well preserved old town with traditional wooden structures and tea houses. Free evening to sample the delicious Sichuan cuisine. Harbor Plaza Hotel (B,L)

Reed Flute Cave, Guilin
Reed Flute Cave, Guilin
Day 12: Chongqing/Guilin. Fly southward to Guilin, home to the magnificent karst landscape made famous through centuries of Chinese art. This afternoon visit the famous Reed Flute Cave. Royal Garden Hotel (B,L)

Sunset on the river Li
Sunset on the river Li
Day 13: Li River Cruise. Towering limestone pinnacles and misty waters form the backdrop of today's leisurely cruise on the fabled Li River. Visit the bustling market at Yangshou Village. Enjoy some free time to explore on your own. Later, savor a special dinner complete with colorful local entertainment. (B,L,D)

Chinese boys
Chinese boys
Day 14: Guilin/Guangzhou/Hong Kong. Fly to Guangzhou, formerly Canton, port of call for traders and pirates for centuries. After a short city tour, board a high speed Catamaran that transports you through the Pearl River Delta to the scenic harbor of Hong Kong. Transfer to your deluxe hotel in the heart of bustling Kowloon, adjacent to the majestic harbor promenade. New World Renaissance Hotel Kowloon (B,L)

Hong Kong city and harbor from Victoria Peak
Hong Kong city and harbor from Victoria Peak
Day 15: Hong Kong. A morning tour of Hong Kong Island features a drive to the top of Victoria Peak for a spectacular city and harbor view. Then visit the renowned Stanley Market where bargains await, the scenic Repulse Bay and the Aberdeen floating fishing village. (B)

Busy Hong Kong street
Busy Hong Kong street
Day 16: Hong Kong at Leisure. Our China tour packages concludes with a full day at leisure to explore on your own, join an optional tour or "shop until you drop". (B)

Day 17: Hong Kong/USA. Morning transfer to the airport. Your memorable China journey ends as your flight arrives in the USA later today.


Bangkok, Thailand 4 Day Extension

Thai girls in costume Why not take advantage of your already included international airfare and add four days in exotic Bangkok to your exciting China tours? Your extension includes airfare from Hong Kong to Bangkok, four nights at the deluxe Shangri-La Hotel, full buffet breakfast daily, city and temples tour and all transfers.

Day 17: Hong Kong/Bangkok. Hong Kong/Bangkok. Today board a short flight to Thailand, the "Land of Smiles". Upon arrival in Bangkok, the breathtaking capital situated on the banks of the Chao Phraya River, you'll be escorted to your deluxe, river front hotel. Sheraton Royal Orchid Hotel

Temple of the Emerald Buddha, Bangkok
Temple of the Emerald Buddha, Bangkok
Day 18: Bangkok Temples. Following breakfast embark on an included tour introducing you to some of Bangkok's most outstanding Buddhist temples: Wat Trimitr with its invaluable 5-tons solid gold statue of Buddha and Wat Po, the temple featuring the colossal 150 foot long "Reclining Buddha" and the White Marble Temple representing the finest Thai architecture. Afternoon at leisure. (B)

Damneon Saduak floating market, Thailand
Damneon Saduak floating market, Thailand   © Tourism Authority of Thailand
Day 19-20: Bangkok. Two days to discover Thailand's vibrant and exotic capital, known as the Venice of the East, at your own pace. We suggest an optional full day excursion to the bustling and colorful Damneon Saduak floating market, held daily, followed by a rice barge ride to the Rose Garden, a Thai village featuring a presentation of local arts and customs. You may also take a dip in your hotel's pool or shop to your heart's content. (B)

Day 21: Bangkok/USA. Early this morning board your homebound flight. Your magical journey to the Orient ends as you arrive the USA later today.

Add $499 per person double/$699 single for the Bangkok Extension.


Destination FAQs

For quick answers to Frequently Asked Questions about travel to China, click here.

For quick answers to Frequently Asked Questions about travel to Thailand, click here.


About Your Cruise Ship

Victoria Cruises Victoria Cruises operates one of the newest fleets of luxury cruisers sailing the Yangtze River. Air-conditioned cabins have a picture window facing the river, two lower beds and a private bath. Superb facilities include a restaurant featuring delicious cuisine, bar, viewing lounge, gift shop and a fitness center. On-board activities include demonstrations, lectures and local entertainment.


About the Three Gorges Dam Project

The Three Gorges Dam Project entered its first operational phase in 2003. While the full undertaking is not slated for completion for another 6 years, the ongoing progress may cause slight changes to the published cruise itinerary. You will still enjoy a comprehensive journey and the awe-inspiring Three Gorges!


We booked this trip instead of going to Hawaii for our honeymoon. It was less expensive to fly half way around the world and stay for 3 extra days than what it would have cost to go to Hawaii. As for the trip, it was by far the best trip of my life. Lek, our guide, is a wonderful person; very accomodating, friendly and seemed to genuinely care about making our experience enjoyable. Thailand is an amazing country that combines beautiful scenery, a unique culture, friendly people, a good nightlife, and is very inexpensive. What more could you ask for? We are looking to book our next trip (Africa) and are definitely looking at Friendly Planet.

— Wade Honeyfield, Denver, CO

Just returned from Thailand, full to the brim! This was an exceptional tour—pace, activities, options, hotels, all exceeded expectations. Our guide, Lek, was outstanding—sensitive to our wants and needs, knowledgable and instructive, generous in providing "tastes" of Thailand on our excursion and arranging optional visits to places close to her heart that we otherwise would have missed. Our days were full; hers seemed to never stop. Cambodia too was an amazing experience, again with our guide Long catering to the special travel needs of our group. This trip changed my bias against directed tours...Thank you, Friendly Planet!

— Kristi McKenzie, Bingham Farms, MI

Just got back from your Thailand trip. The four of us had a marvelous time, and your arrangements were wonderful. I was impressed by the organization throughout. We all learned a lot and really enjoyed the experience.

— Andy Tsoi, Tacoma, WA

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China, Yangtze River Cruise & Hong Kong
Included Features

• Round trip flights via scheduled Korean Air wide-body jet service from Los Angeles or, for an additional $100, from New York JFK (flight schedule)

• All intra-China flights, ground transportation and all transfers

• Accommodations at deluxe hotels (5-stars) with private bath

• Deluxe Yangtze River cruise aboard Victoria Cruises ship in outside cabins with picture window, private balcony and private bath

• 33 bountiful meals including 14 American buffet breakfasts, 11 lunches and 8 dinners

• Comprehensive touring program including entrance fees

• All shore excursions during Yangtze River cruise

• Professional English-speaking Tour Director and local guides

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Sorry, there are no currently available tour dates.

Rates are per person based on double occupancy.

Single Occupancy Rooms: Add $699 ($899 for September and October departures).

Flight Schedule: Click here for a full flight schedule.

Addditional Costs: U.S. departure taxes ($250) are not included.

Fuel Surcharges: We are all aware of the escalating cost of fuel, and while we had hoped we would not be adversely effected, we are now receiving fuel surcharge notices from many airlines. Most likely, all airlines will soon follow suit. All present surcharges for this tour are included. We regret having to pass along these additional charges to our passengers; however, we cannot be responsible for these charges when they are levied except to do our best to notify our passengers of the charges and then collect them on behalf of the carriers. Like all taxes associated with your tickets, fuel surcharges and airport fees are subject to change without notice.

Important Note: If you are reserving for these china tours less than 60 days prior to departure, confirmation is subject to space availability. We will advise you within 48 hours if we can confirm your reservation. In the meantime, no credit cards will be debited for deposits or payments until we are able to confirm your reservations.

Waitlisting on Friendly Planet Sold-Out Departures: If your preferred departure is sold out, you can place yourself on a waitlist by completing the online reservation form and submitting it to us. Just click on the "waitlist" button, complete the form and click "submit". In the comments box at the very bottom of the form, please write any notes regarding your request, especially any flexibility you might have in your dates of travel. This way, if your first choice doesn't clear, we can try for a second or third choice. We will make every effort to clear your space in a timely way so that you can join us on tour. You do not need to send any deposits for waitlists. When we clear your space, we'll contact you immediately by phone or email, and if you still wish to travel, we will arrange for deposits or payments at that time. We regret that we cannot accept waitlists beyond 35 days prior to departure. If you see "sold out" next to the dates you wish to reserve or waitlist, please note that this departure is now closed, including waitlist possibilities.

Visas: China visa fee is not included. At present, the Chinese authorities are not issuing group visas. Every passenger must obtain a visa directly from the appropriate Chinese Consulate or through a visa service. Detailed information on obtaining visas will be sent to every passenger who reserves this tour. Click the "Getting a Visa" link on this page for immediate information, including visa applications and instructions.

Bangkok Extension: Add $499 per person double occupancy, $699 single occupancy.

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