The Flavour Journey: Tastes of China
Beijing | Xi'an | Chongqing | Guangzhou | Shanghai
Price details
Price includes all accommodation, experiences, guiding and transfers. Based on travelling off-peak and may increase if travelling over peak season. Price excludes international flights and meals that are not listed in the itinerary.
Tour Highlights
Chinese food is not sesame chicken or orange chicken. It is far more than what you may know abroad. It is one of the most sophisticated cuisines in the world, shaped by centuries of tradition and regional diversity.
On this journey, you'll set foot across different regions in China, hunting for the most delicious food, from time-honored restaurants to street stalls and wet markets. Talk to vendors, taste fresh ingredients, and experience the culture through its flavors. This is a journey that brings you closer to the true essence of China through food.
In Beijing's hutongs, taste authentic hot pot, dumplings, and visit time-honored Peking duck restaurants loved by locals
At the foot of Xi'an city wall, learn hand-pulled noodles in a local cooking studio
In the cyber city of Chongqing, explore hidden alleys and modern districts to discover diverse cuisine
In Guangzhou, sample fresh dim sum and local specialties in the Cantonese food capital
In Shanghai, roll up your sleeves and make soup dumplings and explore modern food and drink trends like milk tea and trendy bakeries
Enjoy a well-balanced journey that also includes iconic landmarks such as the Great Wall, the Forbidden City, the Summer Palace, the Terracotta Warriors, and the Bund
Itinerary
DAY
1
DAY
1
The Flavour Journey: Tastes of China
Beijing
MORNING
Beijing Airport Pickup
AFTERNOON
Beijing Hutong Tour: A Walk Through Time
The Flavour Journey: Tastes of China • Afternoon
Beijing Hutong Tour: A Walk Through Time
In this tour you will walk through different Hutongs to discover different sides of Beijing life. You will see neighborhoods where time seems to stand still - quiet alleys where locals still enjoy their daily routines, and living at a slower pace. As we continue, the Hutongs begin to change. We'll pass through lively streets filled with century-old shops and traditional eateries. Later you'll also see newly renovated alleys transformed into boutique cafés and stylish spaces.
During the tour, you will visit a local opera house where you can create your own Peking opera mask, try on traditional costumes, and capture some of the most unique and memorable travel photos in China.
Duration: 4 Hours
Best seasons: Spring, Summer, Autumn, Winter
Themes: History & Culture, Art & Creative, Off-the-Beaten Path
EVENING
Antique Market Treasure Hunt
The Flavour Journey: Tastes of China • Evening
Antique Market Treasure Hunt
Explore one of the largest and liveliest antique markets in Beijing, where you'll find a wide range of traditional Chinese handicrafts, antiques, and vintage-style items. Many pieces may not be truly ancient, but that is part of the fun — browsing, discovering, and bargaining for something you love at a good price.
During the tour, you will also visit a stand run by a lovely local auntie, where you can create your own personalized stamp with your name or even a Chinese name if you wish. It makes for a memorable keepsake from Beijing.
Duration: 2 hours
Best seasons: Spring, Summer, Autumn
Themes: Art & Creative, Off-the-Beaten Path
The Flavour Journey: Tastes of China • Accommodation
Hotel Jen Beijing
Located in Beijing's Central Business District, JEN Beijing by Shangri-La is part of the Shangri-La Group. The newly-built JEN Beijing by Shangri-La is part of the fully integrated China World Complex, which includes premier malls, offices and restaurants. Centrally located in buzzing Guomao, the complex provides direct access to major subway lines for convenient trips to some of Beijing's top attractions. JEN Beijing by Shangri-La offers young-at-heart travellers fuss-free service with a refreshing sense of adventure and puts the city right at their doorstep. Enjoy upcoming events, a lively gastropub Beersmith, a modern and vibrant all-day dining restaurant San Wu Tang, smart meeting space Prototype and a fitness centre Trainyard that will help keep the great feelings going! Check into more than a physical space; check into a new state of mind. Because whether you're in Beijing for business or a bit of shopping, we blur the line between work and play in an informal, fun and inspiring setting
DAY
2
DAY
2
The Flavour Journey: Tastes of China
Beijing
MORNING
Decoding the Forbidden City
The Flavour Journey: Tastes of China • Morning
Decoding the Forbidden City
During this tour, you'll discover why the Forbidden City is a masterpiece in all aspects - a perfect blend of oriental culture, Chinese history, and architectural gems. This is a tour that can be tailor-made for everyone, whether you're a history lover, an architecture enthusiast, or simply someone who wants to take the best IG photos.
We won't bombard you with dates, dynasties, or long-dead emperor names. Instead, we'll help you understand the Forbidden City in a way that is easy to digest, engaging, and relatable. It's an architecture tour. It's a history tour. It's a culture tour. But most of all, it's a fun tour.
AFTERNOON
Speedboat to the Summer Palace
The Flavour Journey: Tastes of China • Afternoon
Speedboat to the Summer Palace
Take a speedboat along the historic imperial waterway, cruising just as the royal family once did on their way to the Summer Palace. Along the journey, enjoy a unique perspective of Beijing's cityscape before arriving at the vast Summer Palace.
Once there, stroll through the magnificent Summer Palace, the most beautiful royal garden in China. This garden is a miniature version of China's most famous landscapes. You'll learn how to appreciate the beauty of this place, and see how this place reflects the elegance and aesthetics of China. Along the way, we will also stop at a charming café hidden inside a quiet garden for a relaxing coffee break.
Duration: 3 Hours
Best seasons: Spring, Summer, Autumn
Themes: History & Culture, Active & Outdoors
EVENING
Beijing Under Moonlight - Not Your Average Bar Tour
The Flavour Journey: Tastes of China • Evening
Beijing Under Moonlight - Not Your Average Bar Tour
Ancient temples, hidden hutong courtyards, and former factories — places you would never expect to find nightlife — have been transformed into vibrant cocktail bars and craft beer houses. That unique contrast is what makes this night experience so special.
Along the way, you'll taste premium cocktails inspired by Chinese local flavors, locally crafted beers, and Chinese wines. As you walk beneath the moonlight, you'll discover a side of Beijing that feels both ancient and contemporary. Please note that drinks are not included, and guests cover their own drinks.
Duration: 3 hours
Best seasons: Spring, Summer, Autumn
Themes: Food & Drinks, Off-the-Beaten Path
The Flavour Journey: Tastes of China • Accommodation
Hotel Jen Beijing
Located in Beijing's Central Business District, JEN Beijing by Shangri-La is part of the Shangri-La Group. The newly-built JEN Beijing by Shangri-La is part of the fully integrated China World Complex, which includes premier malls, offices and restaurants. Centrally located in buzzing Guomao, the complex provides direct access to major subway lines for convenient trips to some of Beijing's top attractions. JEN Beijing by Shangri-La offers young-at-heart travellers fuss-free service with a refreshing sense of adventure and puts the city right at their doorstep. Enjoy upcoming events, a lively gastropub Beersmith, a modern and vibrant all-day dining restaurant San Wu Tang, smart meeting space Prototype and a fitness centre Trainyard that will help keep the great feelings going! Check into more than a physical space; check into a new state of mind. Because whether you're in Beijing for business or a bit of shopping, we blur the line between work and play in an informal, fun and inspiring setting
DAY
3
DAY
3
The Flavour Journey: Tastes of China
Beijing
MORNING+AFTERNOON
Your Great Wall, Your Way
The Flavour Journey: Tastes of China • Morning+afternoon
Your Great Wall, Your Way
In this flexible Great Wall program, you may choose the section that suits you best — the classic Mutianyu Great Wall with iconic views, or the quieter Huanghuacheng Great Wall for a more peaceful experience with fewer crowds.
This tour goes beyond the Wall itself. You will also visit a traditional Chinese village nearby, slow down after your hike, and enjoy a beautiful café with scenic views where the Great Wall can still be seen in the distance.
Duration: 4 hours (excluding transit)
Best seasons: Spring, Summer, Autumn, Winter
Themes: History & Culture, Active & Outdoors, Off-the-Beaten Path
EVENING
Beijing Food Tour: Beijing Dusk
The Flavour Journey: Tastes of China • Evening
Beijing Food Tour: Beijing Dusk
Join us for an exciting food hunt in one of Beijing's most historic neighborhoods. You'll explore lively local streets, visit a traditional wet market, venture into narrow hutongs, walk beneath the iconic Drum Tower, and stroll along a beautiful lake — all while discovering some of the city's most iconic flavors.
Along the way, you'll make 5+ food stops. Breakfast tours may include egg pancakes, potstickers, soy milk, fried dough, Chinese-style yogurt, tea eggs, and more. Dinner tours may include Beijing hotpot, Chinese burgers, dumplings, fried sauce noodles, and more.
Duration: 3 hours
Best seasons: Spring, Summer, Autumn, Winter
Themes: History & Culture, Food & Drinks
The Flavour Journey: Tastes of China • Accommodation
Hotel Jen Beijing
Located in Beijing's Central Business District, JEN Beijing by Shangri-La is part of the Shangri-La Group. The newly-built JEN Beijing by Shangri-La is part of the fully integrated China World Complex, which includes premier malls, offices and restaurants. Centrally located in buzzing Guomao, the complex provides direct access to major subway lines for convenient trips to some of Beijing's top attractions. JEN Beijing by Shangri-La offers young-at-heart travellers fuss-free service with a refreshing sense of adventure and puts the city right at their doorstep. Enjoy upcoming events, a lively gastropub Beersmith, a modern and vibrant all-day dining restaurant San Wu Tang, smart meeting space Prototype and a fitness centre Trainyard that will help keep the great feelings going! Check into more than a physical space; check into a new state of mind. Because whether you're in Beijing for business or a bit of shopping, we blur the line between work and play in an informal, fun and inspiring setting
DAY
4
DAY
4
The Flavour Journey: Tastes of China
Beijing/Xi'an
MORNING
Leisure Time
AFTERNOON
Beijing Airport Dropoff + Xi'an Airport Pickup
The Flavour Journey: Tastes of China • Accommodation
Shangri-La Xi'an
The hotel is located in the core area of technology road, yanta district, adjacent to the tang city wall ruins park, close to the subway line 3, line 6, line 8 to the big wild goose pagoda, Great tang all day mall and other famous attractions. Across from the hotel are famous restaurant yongxing square with snacks, change'an cuisine stalls and other special restaurants, so that you can experience authentic shaanxi cuisine. It takes about 5 minutes to walk to the commercial pedestrian street. Century golden flower, metropolis, T11 block, lotus supermarket, etc, is convenient for your leisure shopping. Around the characteristics of the shop gathered: Starbucks and other desserts, drinks, snacks, hand gift everything, but also a cinema and other cultural entertainment venues, to meet your needs. Hotel can provide a car to the museum of the terra-cotta warriors and horses, huaqing pool and other famous attractions, convenient transportation. It is only a 40-minute drive to the airport and high-speed rails station.
DAY
5
DAY
5
The Flavour Journey: Tastes of China
Xi'an
MORNING+AFTERNOON
Eat, Ride, Discover Ancient Xi'an
The Flavour Journey: Tastes of China • Morning+afternoon
Eat, Ride, Discover Ancient Xi'an
Embark on a culturally rich journey through Xi'an, the ancient capital of 13 dynasties, where imperial history meets vibrant local life. Begin your day at the Great Mosque, exploring its serene courtyard and intricate Islamic architecture, then continue to Gaojia Courtyard for a traditional shadow puppet performance.
For lunch, visit a local home and join a hands-on Biangbiang noodle workshop, making and enjoying your own wide, chewy noodles. After lunch, choose between two traditional arts — stone rubbing or brush calligraphy. End the day with a leisurely ride on a premium bike along the tree-lined paths at the foot of the City Wall, discovering hidden corners of ancient Xi'an.
Duration: 8 hours
Best seasons: Spring, Summer, Autumn, Winter
Themes: History & Culture, Art & Creative, Off-the-Beaten Path, Food & Drinks
The Flavour Journey: Tastes of China • Accommodation
Shangri-La Xi'an
The hotel is located in the core area of technology road, yanta district, adjacent to the tang city wall ruins park, close to the subway line 3, line 6, line 8 to the big wild goose pagoda, Great tang all day mall and other famous attractions. Across from the hotel are famous restaurant yongxing square with snacks, change'an cuisine stalls and other special restaurants, so that you can experience authentic shaanxi cuisine. It takes about 5 minutes to walk to the commercial pedestrian street. Century golden flower, metropolis, T11 block, lotus supermarket, etc, is convenient for your leisure shopping. Around the characteristics of the shop gathered: Starbucks and other desserts, drinks, snacks, hand gift everything, but also a cinema and other cultural entertainment venues, to meet your needs. Hotel can provide a car to the museum of the terra-cotta warriors and horses, huaqing pool and other famous attractions, convenient transportation. It is only a 40-minute drive to the airport and high-speed rails station.
DAY
6
DAY
6
The Flavour Journey: Tastes of China
Xi'an/Chongqing
MORNING+AFTERNOON
Meet the Warriors
The Flavour Journey: Tastes of China • Morning+afternoon
Meet the Warriors
Step back over 2,200 years to the Qin Dynasty and 1,300 years to the Tang Dynasty on this full-day eastern route through Xi'an. Explore the world-famous Terracotta Army, one of the Eight Wonders of the Ancient World — an awe-inspiring collection of life-sized, intricately detailed clay warriors and horses created to guard an imperial tomb for eternity.
Then visit Huaqing Palace, a luxurious royal hot spring retreat that flourished during the golden age of the Tang Dynasty. The site is rich in both imperial romance and 20th-century historical significance, offering a layered perspective on China's past.
Duration: 8 hours
Best seasons: Spring, Summer, Autumn, Winter
Themes: History & Culture, Art & Creative
EVENING
Xi'an Airport Dropoff + Chongqing Airport Pickup
The Flavour Journey: Tastes of China • Accommodation
The Westin Chongqing Liberation Square
Surrounded by popular shops, prestigious businesses and tourist attractions, The Westin Chongqing Liberation Square is a haven of wellness and renewal. Immerse yourself in a calming oasis in scenic hotel accommodations with modern technologies, LCD TVs, capsule coffee machine, Dyson hair dryer only in suite rooms, high-speed Wi-Fi and signature Heavenly Beds. Thrill your palate with distinctive culinary delights, including fresh seafood, bountiful buffets and local hot pot at our distinctive hotel restaurants. Explore the city's celebrated attractions including Jie Fang Bei, Hong Ya Cave and Chao Tian Men. Host flawless meetings, magical weddings and unforgettable social affairs in sophisticated event space, enhanced by custom catering and inspiring city views. Designed to ensure your comfort and elevate your well-being, our Chongqing hotel is a refreshing sanctuary in a legendary travel destination.
DAY
7
DAY
7
The Flavour Journey: Tastes of China
Chongqing
MORNING+AFTERNOON
Cyber City in One Day
The Flavour Journey: Tastes of China • Morning+afternoon
Cyber City in One Day
Experience the best of Chongqing in one unforgettable day. This tour takes you through the iconic highlights of the world-famous mountain city, known for its bold infrastructure, ultra-modern skyscrapers, and dramatic hillside landscape.
See how skyscrapers rise directly from the hills, how roads twist across multiple layers of the city, and how the metro famously runs through a building. Visit a scenic hilltop park and climb the viewing tower for sweeping panoramas of the Yangtze and Jialing Rivers weaving through Chongqing's stacked skyline. As night falls and the city lights shimmer to life, we will take you to some of Chongqing's most iconic evening viewpoints for stunning nightscapes.
Duration: 9 hours
Best seasons: Spring, Summer, Autumn, Winter
Themes: History & Culture, Art & Creative
The Flavour Journey: Tastes of China • Accommodation
The Westin Chongqing Liberation Square
Surrounded by popular shops, prestigious businesses and tourist attractions, The Westin Chongqing Liberation Square is a haven of wellness and renewal. Immerse yourself in a calming oasis in scenic hotel accommodations with modern technologies, LCD TVs, capsule coffee machine, Dyson hair dryer only in suite rooms, high-speed Wi-Fi and signature Heavenly Beds. Thrill your palate with distinctive culinary delights, including fresh seafood, bountiful buffets and local hot pot at our distinctive hotel restaurants. Explore the city's celebrated attractions including Jie Fang Bei, Hong Ya Cave and Chao Tian Men. Host flawless meetings, magical weddings and unforgettable social affairs in sophisticated event space, enhanced by custom catering and inspiring city views. Designed to ensure your comfort and elevate your well-being, our Chongqing hotel is a refreshing sanctuary in a legendary travel destination.
DAY
8
DAY
8
The Flavour Journey: Tastes of China
Chongqing/Guangzhou
MORNING
Chongqing Food Tour in Hidden Alleys and Trendy Malls
The Flavour Journey: Tastes of China • Morning
Chongqing Food Tour in Hidden Alleys and Trendy Malls
Open your palate to the bold cuisine of Chongqing. While the city is famous for its spiciness, there is far more to discover beyond the heat. Step away from the main streets and into hidden, hole-in-the-wall eateries tucked inside quiet alleys. These small family-run places rarely appear on Google Maps, but they are where the true soul of Chongqing's food lives.
You will taste both time-honored classics and the city's newest trending snacks, such as steamed lamb, rice noodles, rice porridge, silky tofu, crispy pork, spicy skewers, and more. Along the way, visit a local wet market with your guide to see what residents buy every day and gain a deeper understanding of the city's culinary culture.
Duration: 4 hours
Best seasons: Spring, Summer, Autumn, Winter
Themes: Food & Drinks
AFTERNOON
Chongqing Airport Dropoff + Guangzhou Airport Pickup
The Flavour Journey: Tastes of China • Accommodation
Hilton Guangzhou Tianhe
Just a few steps from Guangzhou East Railway Station, the Hilton Guangzhou Tianhe is conveniently located in Guangzhou's central business district, with easy access to the city's most popular shopping and entertainment venues.
All of the Guest Rooms and Suites at this Guangzhou hotel feature Hilton Serenity Beds, wireless internet access, LCD TVs and stunning views of the city skyline.
Diners can enjoy the authentic Cantonese cuisine at Suixuan Chinese Restaurant, check out the sophisticated Il Ponte for authentic Italian cuisine, take afternoon tea in the relaxed T Lounge & Bar and enjoy cocktails and live music in Bar One.
DAY
9
DAY
9
The Flavour Journey: Tastes of China
Guangzhou
MORNING+AFTERNOON
Icons of Canton
The Flavour Journey: Tastes of China • Morning+afternoon
Icons of Canton
Explore Guangzhou's most iconic landmarks in a full-day journey blending history, modernity, and riverside scenery. Begin at Chen Clan Ancestral Hall, a masterpiece of Qing dynasty architecture adorned with intricate carvings and folk art.
In the afternoon, ascend Canton Tower for panoramic city views from the observation deck. Conclude the day with a relaxing stroll along the Pearl River, taking in the riverside atmosphere and Guangzhou's illuminated skyline.
Duration: 8 hours
Best seasons: Spring, Summer, Autumn, Winter
Themes: History & Culture, Art & Creative
EVENING
Cantonese Street Food Adventure
The Flavour Journey: Tastes of China • Evening
Cantonese Street Food Adventure
Discover the culinary heart of Guangzhou along Xihua Road, a street alive with authentic local food culture. Here, there are no tourist menus or polished storefronts — only the rhythms of real city life.
Enjoy freshly made dim sum, rice rolls, beef offal, zongzi, dumplings, and traditional desserts, guided by a local expert who explains the culture, history, and everyday eating habits of Guangzhou residents. Experience the city's vibrant food scene from morning to evening flavors in just a few hours.
Duration: 3 hours
Best seasons: Spring, Summer, Autumn, Winter
Themes: History & Culture, Food & Drinks, Off-the-Beaten Path
The Flavour Journey: Tastes of China • Accommodation
Hilton Guangzhou Tianhe
Just a few steps from Guangzhou East Railway Station, the Hilton Guangzhou Tianhe is conveniently located in Guangzhou's central business district, with easy access to the city's most popular shopping and entertainment venues.
All of the Guest Rooms and Suites at this Guangzhou hotel feature Hilton Serenity Beds, wireless internet access, LCD TVs and stunning views of the city skyline.
Diners can enjoy the authentic Cantonese cuisine at Suixuan Chinese Restaurant, check out the sophisticated Il Ponte for authentic Italian cuisine, take afternoon tea in the relaxed T Lounge & Bar and enjoy cocktails and live music in Bar One.
DAY
10
DAY
10
The Flavour Journey: Tastes of China
Guangzhou/Shanghai
MORNING
Guangzhou Airport Dropoff + Shanghai Airport Pickup
AFTERNOON
Leisure Time
EVENING
Eat Like a Local - Foodie Tour (Dinner)
The Flavour Journey: Tastes of China • Evening
Eat Like a Local - Foodie Tour (Dinner)
Savor 10 dishes at 5 of Shanghai's most authentic and time-honored eateries while hearing the stories behind the food. Guests will also have the chance to make soup dumplings themselves. Along the way, explore classic Shanghai icons such as Nanjing Road and People's Square, uncovering the untold stories behind these landmarks.
The menu varies by departure. Breakfast options may include crab roe soup dumplings, crispy buns, pancakes, scallion pancake, mango dessert and more. Dinner experiences may include crab roe soup dumplings, crispy buns, braised pork belly, Shanghai steamed rice, Chinese liquor and more.
Duration: 3 hours
Best seasons: Spring, Summer, Autumn, Winter
Themes: History & Culture, Food & Drinks
The Flavour Journey: Tastes of China • Accommodation
Shanghai Marriott Marquis City Centre
Conveniently situated in the heart of the tourist destination, guests staying at Shanghai Marriott Marquis City Centre can easily access a number of city landmarks as well as entertainment and shopping attractions including, The Bund, Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street and the People's Square. The refreshed features can be seen in the hotel's guestrooms, food and beverage outlets, lobby lounge and the 2,000 square meters flexible event space.
DAY
11
DAY
11
The Flavour Journey: Tastes of China
Shanghai
MORNING
What's Trendy in China? Consumer Theme
The Flavour Journey: Tastes of China • Morning
What's Trendy in China? Consumer Theme
Step into China's fast-evolving consumer landscape, where homegrown brands like PopMart, MINISO, and other rising names are reshaping tastes locally and globally. This experience reveals how China has evolved from the world's factory into a creator of influential brands, IP, and consumer trends.
Discover how these brands built their influence, explore their business strategies, and hear the stories behind their success. Food and lifestyle also play a role: highlights include trendy street food, milk tea, and a meal at the world-famous Haidilao, known internationally for its service and frequent appearance in business case studies.
Duration: 4 hours
Best seasons: Spring, Summer, Autumn, Winter
Themes: Food & Drinks, Art & Creative
AFTERNOON
Explore Shanghai's Creative Side with Chinese Tea Experience
The Flavour Journey: Tastes of China • Afternoon
Explore Shanghai's Creative Side with Chinese Tea Experience
Step into Shanghai's contemporary art world with a curated half-day journey through M50 Creative Park, a former textile factory turned vibrant hub for galleries, graffiti walls, and artists' studios.
The experience also includes an intimate tea ceremony in a tranquil tearoom, where guests not only taste fine teas but can also enjoy hands-on activities such as floating tea art, Chinese calligraphy, or crafting an aromatic sachet.
Duration: 2 hours
Best seasons: Spring, Summer, Autumn, Winter
Themes: Art & Creative
The Flavour Journey: Tastes of China • Accommodation
Shanghai Marriott Marquis City Centre
Conveniently situated in the heart of the tourist destination, guests staying at Shanghai Marriott Marquis City Centre can easily access a number of city landmarks as well as entertainment and shopping attractions including, The Bund, Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street and the People's Square. The refreshed features can be seen in the hotel's guestrooms, food and beverage outlets, lobby lounge and the 2,000 square meters flexible event space.
DAY
12
DAY
12
The Flavour Journey: Tastes of China
Shanghai
MORNING
Shanghai Airport Dropoff
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Enquiry Form
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