China & Vietnam: Chengdu to Hanoi
China & Vietnam: Chengdu to Hanoi
$2399
Tour Overview
Embark on an unforgettable journey from Chengdu to Hanoi, exploring the rich cultural tapestry of China and Vietnam. This tour offers a blend of vibrant cityscapes and serene landscapes, with highlights including visits to Chengdu's People's Park, the ancient streets of Lijiang Old Town, and the breathtaking Yuanyang Rice Terraces. Experience the charm of Shaxi and Xizhou Old Towns, and enjoy gentle hikes through the picturesque Sapa region. Travel in style with private vehicles and local trains, and unwind in comfortable hotels each night. Engage in unique cultural activities like a Hmong Batik Workshop and a tofu-making session, and savor local cuisines with group dinners. Conclude your adventure with a cyclo tour through Hanoi's bustling Old Quarter, capturing the essence of this vibrant city. This tour promises an enriching experience, blending history, culture, and natural beauty. ...more ...less
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Chengdu
Location: Chengdu, People's Park, Chengdu, Tianfu Square, Chengdu
Accommodation Name: Rongcheng Hotel
Welcome to China! Arrive at the starting hotel by 1:00 pm and join your group and CEO for a Welcome Meeting. Then head out to visit the People's Park & Tianfu Square then opt to join your group for an optional dinner together.
ACTIVITY: Built in 1911, the People's Park was the first public park in Chengdu. It's the largest green area in downtown. The park features an artificial lake, gardens, teahouses, and is a popular place for locals to enjoy the outdoors. Walk to Tianfu Square in the centre of the city, surrounded by museums.
ACTIVITY: Your opportunity to meet your CEO and fellow travellers, and learn more about your tour. Opt to join the group for a local meal afterwards. Don't forget to see the notice in the lobby (or ask reception) for the official time and place to meet up with the group.
Day 2: Chengdu/Lijiang
Location: Chengdu, Giant Panda Breeding Center, Chengdu, Wenshu Monastery, Chengdu, Kuanzhai Alley, Chengdu, Lijiang
Accommodation Name: Golden Path Hospitality Hotel
Spend the morning free in Chengdu. Opt to visit the Giant Panda Breeding Center, visit the Wenshu Monastery or Kuanzhai Alley. Take an afternoon flight from Chengdu to Lijiang.
FREE TIME: Enjoy a free morning in Chengdu.
TRANSPORT: Look! Up in the sky! It's a bird! It's a plane! It's... yup, it is a plane, actually.
Day 3: Lijiang
Location: Lijiang, Black Dragon Pool, Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, Lijiang Old Town
Accommodation Name: Golden Path Hospitality Hotel
After a morning orientation walk of Lijiang, visit the the Black dragon Pool and the spectacular views of the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain above the marble bridge. Upon finishing the tour, head to Lijiang Old town to and explore the must see spots like The Giant Water Wheel, Wangu Tower and Lion Hill. Then enjoy a free evening. Opt to visit the Mufu Museum or grab dinner with your group.
ACTIVITY: Walk through the charming old town of Lijiang, a World Heritage Site and home to the Naxi minority. Observe scenes from another era, with old men smoking pipes and women in their traditional costumes. Get lost in the small pedestrian lanes that meander throughout the town -- every twist and turn reveals picturesque old buildings, local arts and crafts, fast flowing canals, and beautiful arched bridges. You can also spend an afternoon resting in a pavilion in the Black Dragon Pool Park, gazing at the reflection of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain and listening to the local Naxi music.
ACTIVITY: Explore the gorgeous Black Dragon Pool, a pond in Jade Spring Park, which is a short walk from the Old Town of Lijiang. Take in a spectacular view of the region’s tallest mountain, Jade Dragon Snow Mountain. Visit the many temples and pavilions in the park, including the Deyue Lou (Moon Embracing Pavillion), the Longshen Temple, and the Wufeng Tower. Tour the Dongba Culture Research Institute and the Dongba Culture Museum, which help to preserve local culture.
FREE TIME: Enjoy a free evening in Lijiang.
Day 4: Lijiang/Shaxi
Location: Lijiang, Shaxi, Old Market Square, Shaxi, Old Theater, Shaxi, Yujin Bridge, Shaxi
Accommodation Name: Aoding Guesthouse
Drive to Shaxi Old Town first thing this morning and head out for a walking tour of this ancient, medieval town full of Buddhist culture. Visit the iconic spots of the town like the Old Market Square, the Old Theater, and Yujin Bridge. This afternoon, enjoy free time in this beautiful town. Opt to visit the Xingjiao Temple or the Ouyang Courtyard.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
ACTIVITY: Take a walking tour of the city, hitting the main highlights. Each route will be different, but you can expect to see the best this city has to offer.
FREE TIME: Enjoy a free evening in Shaxi Old Town.
Day 5: Shaxi/Dali
Location: Xizhou, Dali
Accommodation Name: Nanguo Yuyuan Hotel
Meals Included: Dinner
We head to the next town this morning, the thousand year old village of Xizhou Old Town. Explore the well preserved architecture with a tour led by your CEO. Then after a bit of free time in Xizhou, drive to Dali. Head out for an orientation walk and to Dali Old Town. Join your group and CEO for dinner together at a local restaurant. On the way back to the hotel, admire the lanterns that light up this beautiful town at night.
ACTIVITY: Visit the Old town of Dali and enjoy its traditional architecture. It's a great opportunity to learn more about the minority cultures (mostly Bai but also with many Yi and Hui) and relax in this unique place.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
ACTIVITY: Join your CEO on a walking tour of charming Xizhou Old Town. Visit famous spots like Sifang Street and Yan Family Compound, a Traditional Folk Residences.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Day 6: Dali
Location: Dali, Lake Erhai, Cangshan Mountain, Three Pagodas at Chongsheng Temple
Accommodation Name: Nanguo Yuyuan Hotel
This beautiful lakeside town is yours to do as you wish today! Opt to explore the Old Town, cycle around Dali town or Lake Erhai. Maybe visit the National Geological park of Cangshan Mountain on a hike or on the cable car. A local favorite is the Three Pagodas at Chongsheng Temple or you could learn the art of traditional Tie-Dying by the local Bai people. With so many options, the choice is yours!
FREE TIME: Spend today in Dali however you'd like!
Day 7: Dali/Kunming
Location: Dali, Kunming, Kunming Flower Market, Green Lake Park
Accommodation Name: King World International Hotel
Together we'll catch a morning train to Kunming, known as one of China's best natural phenomenons with all its waterfalls, lakes and karst formations. After an orientation walk of the town, opt to head to lunch to try the famous local rice noodle dish. This afternoon, visit the jaw dropping Kunming Flower Market, the largest flower market in all of Asia. Then head to the Green Lake (Cuihu) Park where not only will you see your first glimpse of this karst mountain, lake filled town, but you'll also witness locals dancing, singing and playing instruments during their leisure time.
TRANSPORT: Get to your next destination faster than the speed of light (ok maybe not that fast) aboard a high-speed train.
ACTIVITY: Visit the largest flower market in all of Asia, the Kunming Flower Market. Enjoy the exotic scents and vibrant colours of of this lively flower market.
ACTIVITY: Check out the brightly coloured pavillions, tree-lined walkways, and locals doing tai chi in centuries-old Green Lake Park (Cui Hu Park). Traverse the bridges that connect the park’s four small lakes, or relax with a visit to the many restaurants, shops, and tea houses lining the park's edge.
Day 8: Kunming/Jianshui
Location: Jianshui, Xianghui Bridge, Double Dragon Bridge, Chaoyang Tower, Zhu's Family Garden
Accommodation Name: Jianshui Hotel
Meals Included: Dinner
China explorations await and its off to Jianshui. After an orientation walk, take an tour of the city. Visit the Xianghui Bridge, the Xianghui old train station, the Double Dragon Bridge, the Chaoyan Tower and the Zhu's Family Garden. Then enjoy a free evening.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
ACTIVITY: Head out on a tour of the city of Jianshui. Visit the Qing Dynasty Xianghui Bridge and the historic Xianghui Old Train Station. Then drive to the Double Dragon Bridge, an ancient bridge was built in the years of the Emperor Qianlong with incredible views. At the confluence of the Lushui River and Tacun River, it looks like double winding dragons crossing the land. Explore the Zhu's Family Garden, called the Grand View Garden, a representative of Chinese residential houses of the Qing Dynasty. After the garden, walk through the Old Town.
Day 9: Jianshui/Yuanyang
Location: Jianshui, Yuanyang Rice Terraces
Accommodation Name: Shengcun Yunti Hotel
Start the day with a tofu workshop and watch how the locals make this popular dish. Afterwards, drive toward Yuanyang to visit the impressive Yuanyang Rice Terraces, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and see the sunshine reflect off the carved out mountainside. We'll spend the day exploring this huge rice terrace from different viewpoints and do some gentle hiking through the greenery. This place is special to visit. In a country often associated with bustling, crowded and noisy cities, this picturesque and peaceful landscape will transport you to a whole new side of China.
ACTIVITY: Visit the vast UNESCO World Heritage Site, Yuanyang Rice Terraces. Explore different parts and scenic points, like the famed Tiger Mouth area. Admire the rugged, exaggerated terraces that seem like they could have been painted by an artist. Hike through local villages and experience local life.
ACTIVITY: Join a workshop and learn by watching the process of making this extremely popular Chinese dish.
Day 10: Yuanyang
Location: Duoyishu Scenic Area, Pugao Old Village, Yuanyang Rice Terraces, Tiger Mouth, Quan Fuzhuang
Accommodation Name: Shengcun Yunti Hotel
Opt to rise early, and we recommend you do, to see the sun rise over the beautiful and peaceful Duoyishu Scenic Area. Take a short hike to the Pugao Old Village and see the local way of living. In the afternoon, we'll head to the main scenic area of the rice terrace with a chance to catch an epic sunset scene and meet some locals living in the field. Walk through Quan Fuzhuang to Bada platform and admire the incredible view.
ACTIVITY: Visit the vast UNESCO World Heritage Site, Yuanyang Rice Terraces. Explore different parts and scenic points, like the famed Tiger Mouth area. Admire the rugged, exaggerated terraces that seem like they could have been painted by an artist. Hike through local villages and experience local life.
ACTIVITY: Walk through Quan Fuzhuang to Bada platform. Arguably the most important part of the Yuanyang Rice Terraces. You'll have the opportunity to hike through the levels of the terraces and speak to locals working in the field. This is also the best place to watch the sunset over the terraces.
Day 11: Yuanyang/Sa Pá
Location: Yuanyang, Hekou, Sa Pa
Accommodation Name: Sapa Relax Hotel & Spa
Say goodbye to China this morning and drive to Hekou Border to cross into Vietnam. Your Chinese CEO will help you get to immigration but will stay in China. You'll meet your new Vietnamese CEO once you cross through customs. After arrival into Vietnam drive to the beautiful mountain region of Sapa. The first stop is at the Muong Hoa Batik House for a painting experience with the local indigenous group, the Hmong people. Then we'll sit down together for an authentic and rustic hotpot dinner, a specialty of the Sapa regional cuisine.Additional Information: If you are applying for a Visa for China, please note the following details for your visa application:City of Departure: HongheCounty of Departure: Hekou Yaozu ZizhixianTRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.ACTIVITY: Join the Hmong People, the local indigenous group for a hands on painting activity.ACTIVITY: Cross the land border from China into Vietnam.TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Day 12: Sa Pá
Location: Sa Pa, Su Pan Village, Muong Hoa
Accommodation Name: Sapa Relax Hotel & Spa
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
With mountainside covered in lush green rice terraces, picturesque villages tucked away in the hills and a rich culture unique to this region, Sapa is a must visit, off the beaten path part of Vietnam. Today, spend the whole day trekking some of the best trails of the country. Hike through local villages, rice terraces and tea plantation. We'll stop part way on the trek to eat lunch at a local restaurant. After finishing the trek, head back to your hotel for the evening.
ACTIVITY: Spend today trekking the most famous hiking area in Vietnam. Pass through local villages, beautiful rice terraces and plantations. We'll stop for lunch in Su Pan Village before continuing on to our final spot, Muong Hoa.
Day 13: Sa Pá/Hanoi
Location: Sa Pá, Hanoi, Old Quarter, Hanoi
Meals Included: Breakfast
After breakfast at the hotel, we'll depart from Sapa this morning and drive to the bustling city of Hanoi. After a long drive, we'll leave our bags at the hotel. Then it's time to explore Hanoi and what better way than on the front of a cyclo. Have a seat as you zoom through Hanoi's lively Old Quarter. Your tour ends upon return to the hotel where your bags are being stored.TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.ACTIVITY: Take a seat on a cyclo for a tour of Hanoi’s lively Old Quarter. Let the driver navigate through the bustling streets and start taking some photos or just use the tour to help get familiar with the area.
What's Included
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Accommodation
Hotel (12 nts) -
Meals
2 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 2 dinners -
Welcome Moment
Meet your CEO and group for a welcome moment.
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Hmong Batik Workshop
Participate in a hands-on Hmong Batik Workshop in Mu?ng Hoa.
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People's Park & Tianfu Square Visit
Visit People's Park and Tianfu Square in Chengdu.
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Lijiang Old Town Visit
Explore the Lijiang Old Town.
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Black Dragon Pool Park
Visit the Black Dragon Pool Park.
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Shaxi Walking Tour
Enjoy a walking tour in Shaxi.
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Dali Old Town
Visit Dali Old Town.
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Xizhou Old Town Walking Tour
Take a walking tour of Xizhou Old Town.
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Jianshui City Tour
Explore Jianshui with a city tour.
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Tofu Workshop
Participate in a tofu workshop.
What's Not Included
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Optional Activities
Optional activities and meals not mentioned in the inclusions are not included.
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Personal Expenses
Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional meals, and tips are not included.
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Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included and is recommended for all travelers.
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International Flights
International flights to and from the starting and ending points of the tour are not included.
Accommodation
Enjoy comfortable stays in hotels for 12 nights, including the Rongcheng Hotel, Golden Path Hospitality Hotel, Aoding Guesthouse, Nanguo Yuyuan Hotel, King World International Hotel, Jianshui Hotel, Shengcun Yunti Hotel, and Sapa Relax Hotel & Spa.
Transport
Private Vehicle, local train, walking.
Meals Included
2 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 2 dinners
Group Size
Max 16, avg 14
Solo Travellers
We believe solo travellers should not have to pay more to travel so our group trips are designed for shared accommodation and do not involve a single supplement. Single travellers joining group trips are paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex for the duration of the trip. Some of our Independent trips are designed differently and solo travellers on these itineraries must pay the single trip price. ...more ...less
Mode of Transport
Travel in style with private vehicles, local trains, and walking tours, ensuring a seamless journey through the scenic landscapes of China and Vietnam.
Minimum Age
You must be 18 to travel unaccompanied on a G Adventures tour. For minors travelling with a guardian over 21 years old, the minimum age is 12.
Group Leader
All G Adventures group trips are accompanied by one of our Chief Experience Officers (CEO). The aim of the CEO is to take the hassle out of your travels and to help you have the best trip possible. They will provide information on the places you are travelling through, offer suggestions for things to do and see, recommend great local eating venues and introduce you to our local friends. While not being guides in the traditional sense you can expect them to have a broad general knowledge of the countries visited on the trip, including historical, cultural, religious and social aspects. We also use local guides where we think more specific knowledge will add to the enjoyment of the places we are visiting- we think it's the best of both worlds. ...more ...less
About Accommodation
Twinshare hotel
Check out our Q&As
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What kind of transportation is used during the tour?
The tour includes travel in private vehicles, local trains, and walking tours to ensure a seamless journey through the scenic landscapes of China and Vietnam.
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What type of accommodation is provided during the tour?
The tour provides comfortable stays in hotels for 12 nights, including the Rongcheng Hotel, Golden Path Hospitality Hotel, Aoding Guesthouse, Nanguo Yuyuan Hotel, King World International Hotel, Jianshui Hotel, Shengcun Yunti Hotel, and Sapa Relax Hotel & Spa.
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What activities are included in the tour?
The tour includes a variety of activities such as a welcome moment with your CEO and group, a Hmong Batik Workshop, visits to People's Park and Tianfu Square, Lijiang Old Town, Black Dragon Pool Park, Shaxi Walking Tour, Dali Old Town, Xizhou Old Town Walking Tour, Jianshui City Tour, a tofu workshop, gentle hiking in the Yuanyang Rice Terraces, a Sapa 1-day Trekking Tour, and a Hanoi Cyclo Tour. ...more ...less
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Are there any workshops included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes a Hmong Batik Workshop in Mường Hoa and a tofu workshop.
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What is the group size for this tour?
The maximum group size for this tour is 16, with an average of 14 participants.
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Is there a minimum age requirement for this tour?
Yes, you must be 18 to travel unaccompanied on this tour. For minors traveling with a guardian over 21 years old, the minimum age is 12.
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What is the role of the Chief Experience Officer (CEO) on this tour?
The Chief Experience Officer (CEO) accompanies the group to take the hassle out of traveling and to help you have the best trip possible. They provide information on the places you are traveling through, offer suggestions for things to do and see, recommend great local eating venues, and introduce you to local friends. They have a broad general knowledge of the countries visited, including historical, cultural, religious, and social aspects.
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What is the policy for solo travelers on this tour?
Solo travelers are not required to pay more to travel. Group trips are designed for shared accommodation and do not involve a single supplement. Single travelers are paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex for the duration of the trip.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
G Adventures was established in 1990
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Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
Most of our trips do not have a single supplement. This means that the accommodation is on a twin share basis and, if travelling on your own, you will be sharing a room with another G Adventures traveller of the same sex. Some tours have an optional single supplement. An optional service that may be available is called "My Own Room". This service allows solo travellers to request their own room.
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Can I join the tour once it has departed?
It's extremely difficult if not impossible to join a tour after it has begun. It is possible to leave a tour early however you will be responsible for your own arrangements from the moment you decide to leave the tour. You would also be responsible for all costs associated with joining a tour late or leaving one early. If you feel this may be necessary, please consult us before you book.
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
https://www.gadventures.com/travel-with-confidence/
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
https://www.gadventures.com/about-us/core-values/
Reviews of this operator
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Book with Confidence
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Free Date Changes
G Adventures allows you to make 10 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 0 days before the start of the tour.
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Low Deposit
G Adventures requires a minimum deposit of 350 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of g adventures charges.
Up to 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 59 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 29 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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Terms and Conditions
China & Vietnam: Chengdu to Hanoi
13 Days Starting in Chengdu, China and ending in Hanoi, Vietnam
Visiting: Chengdu, People's Park, Chengdu, Tianfu Square, Chengdu, Giant Panda Breeding Center, Chengdu, Wenshu Monastery, Chengdu, Kuanzhai Alley, Chengdu, Lijiang, Black Dragon Pool, Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, Lijiang Old Town, Shaxi, Old Market Square, Shaxi, Old Theater, Shaxi, Yujin Bridge, Shaxi, Xizhou, Dali, Lake Erhai, Cangshan Mountain, Three Pagodas at Chongsheng Temple, Kunming, Kunming Flower Market, Green Lake Park, Jianshui, Xianghui Bridge, Double Dragon Bridge, Chaoyang Tower, Zhu's Family Garden, Yuanyang Rice Terraces, Duoyishu Scenic Area, Pugao Old Village, Tiger Mouth, Quan Fuzhuang, Yuanyang, Hekou, Sa Pa, Su Pan Village, Muong Hoa, Sa Pá, Hanoi, Old Quarter Hanoi ...more ...less
Tour operator:
Tour code:
26154
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
1 - 16
Age range:
12-
Special diets catered:
Vegetarians, Vegans
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
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