Golden Eagle Silk Road Express: Imperial China

Your journey begins in Beijing, one of the world's great imperial capitals and a city where ancient history and modern China sit side by side. On arrival, you'll be met and transferred to your luxury hotel, your home for the next two nights. Over the coming days, discover some of China's most celebrated landmarks on a series of guided excursions. Walk atop the legendary Great Wall, one of the most remarkable engineering achievements in human history, and admire sweeping views across the surrounding mountains and countryside. Explore the magnificent Forbidden City, the vast palace complex that served as the political and ceremonial heart of imperial China for almost 500 years, where grand courtyards, ornate halls and richly decorated pavilions offer a fascinating insight into the lives of the emperors who once ruled here. You'll also visit the beautiful Summer Palace, a masterpiece of Chinese landscape design and the favoured retreat of the Qing Dynasty emperors. Set around the tranquil waters of Kunming Lake, its elegant pavilions, bridges and gardens provide a peaceful contrast to the grandeur of the Forbidden City.

Stay: TBC

After breakfast, transfer to the railroad station and board a high-speed train for the journey to Xi'an. Traveling aboard one of the world's most advanced rail networks provides a fascinating glimpse into modern China as you speed through ever-changing landscapes towards one of the country's most historic cities. On arrival, you'll be met and transferred to your hotel. Xi'an is one of China's oldest cities and the eastern gateway to the ancient Silk Road. Once the capital of no fewer than 13 dynasties, Xi'an is steeped in history and remains one of China's most important cultural centres. This evening, gather with your fellow travellers for a welcome front desk before enjoying a specially arranged Tang Dynasty-themed dinner, offering an evocative introduction to the rich heritage of this ancient imperial city.

Stay: The Ritz-Carlton, Xi'an

This morning, begin your exploration of Xi'an with a visit to its remarkably preserved ancient city wall. Stretching around the historic heart of the city, the fortifications offer a fascinating glimpse into China's imperial past as well as impressive views over the city beyond. Later, visit one of the world's most extraordinary archaeological discoveries: the Terracotta Army. Created more than 2,000 years ago for China's first emperor, Qin Shi Huang, thousands of life-sized warriors, horses and chariots stand in silent formation, guarding his vast mausoleum. You'll also visit the bronze chariots and horses museum before enjoying a special welcome banquet. This evening, board the Golden Eagle Silk Road Express and settle into your private cabin as your luxury rail journey across China begins.

Stay: Golden Eagle Silk Road Express

Awake in Luoyang, one of China's four great ancient capitals and a city whose history spans more than 4,000 years. Your day begins with a visit to the magnificent Longmen Grottoes, a UNESCO World Heritage Site widely regarded as one of the most important collections of Buddhist art in China. Carved into the limestone cliffs lining the Yi River, the grottoes feature thousands of statues, carvings and inscriptions that showcase centuries of artistic achievement. After lunch, continue to the white horse temple, considered the first Buddhist temple in China. Founded during the eastern Han dynasty, its peaceful courtyards and ornate halls provide fascinating insight into the introduction and development of Buddhism across the country. Return to the train later in the day as the Golden Eagle Silk Road Express continues its journey east towards Shanghai.

Stay: Golden Eagle Silk Road Express

Today is spent enjoying the exceptional comforts of the Golden Eagle Silk Road Express as you continue towards Shanghai. Take time to relax in the observation car, where large panoramic windows provide ever-changing views of China's landscapes as they unfold beyond the tracks. Perhaps enjoy a drink in the lounge, chat with fellow passengers or simply settle back and savor the unhurried pace of one of the world's great rail journeys. Exceptional dining continues throughout the day, while attentive service and elegantly appointed surroundings recall the glamour of classic luxury rail travel. Arrive in Shanghai this evening and transfer to The Peninsula Shanghai for an overnight stay.

Stay: The Peninsula Shanghai

Today is dedicated to discovering Shanghai, a city where historic neighbourhoods and colonial-era architecture sit alongside a striking modern skyline. Begin with a visit to Guangfulin Relics Park, often described as the birthplace of Shanghai. This fascinating archaeological and cultural site offers insight into the region's earliest civilizations through beautifully designed exhibitions and striking architecture. Following lunch at a local restaurant, step aboard a luxurious private yacht for an enchanting 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. Afterwards, return to the train and continue your journey south.

Stay: Golden Eagle Silk Road Express

Arrive in Jingdezhen, a city renowned throughout China as the country's historic porcelain capital. Your exploration begins at the ancient kilns and folk customs expo area, where you'll discover the centuries-old traditions that made Jingdezhen famous around the world. Learn about the techniques and craftsmanship that have been passed down through generations while exploring traditional workshops and kiln sites. A particular highlight is the opportunity to participate in a hands-on porcelain-making experience alongside local artisans. Gain insight into this celebrated art form before creating your own piece to take home as a unique memento of your journey. Return to the train later in the day as the Golden Eagle Silk Road Express continues westwards.

Stay: Golden Eagle Silk Road Express

Today brings an opportunity to experience the mighty Yangtze River and one of China's most remarkable engineering achievements. Disembark the train in Yichang and board a privately chartered vessel for a scenic river cruise between the Gezhouba Dam and the immense Three Gorges Dam, the largest hydroelectric power station in the world. As you cruise through this dramatic section of the Yangtze, admire the surrounding landscapes and gain a fascinating insight into the sheer scale of these engineering projects. As the river unfolds before you, enjoy a sumptuous dinner 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. Return to the train as the Golden Eagle Silk Road Express continues.

Stay: Golden Eagle Silk Road Express

Enjoy a leisurely morning on board, taking time to relax and reflect on the journey so far. Later, we visit the Sichuan Opera Theater – exclusively reserved for your group – where the enchanting world of traditional Chinese opera comes vividly to life. In an intimate and atmospheric setting, performers dressed in radiant silk costumes mesmerise with bian lian, the ancient and astonishing art of face-changing, executed with breathtaking speed and precision. Accompanied by fiery displays, haunting melodies, and elegant choreography, this immersive performance offers a captivating insight into Sichuan’s rich cultural heritage. Following the performance, savor an authentic Chengdu hot pot experience, a celebrated culinary tradition known for its bold flavours and convivial style. After dinner, check in to your hotel for a restful overnight stay.

Stay: Waldorf Astoria Chengdu or similar

After breakfast in the hotel, the day 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, return to the Golden Eagle Silk Road Express for lunch and continue your journey south towards Guilin. Spend the afternoon relaxing in the comfort of the train, perhaps enjoying the scenery from the observation car or reflecting on the experiences of the past week.

Stay: Golden Eagle Silk Road Express

Guilin, nestled in southern China’s Guangxi region, is a serene retreat where natural beauty and cultural heritage meet. Today, you will explore this remarkable area before embarking on a bamboo raft cruise along the Lijiang River, traveling from Guilin to the riverside town of Yangzhou. Along the way, peaceful villages, lush countryside, and striking scenery drift past, offering a tranquil window into rural life. After rejoining the Golden Eagle Silk Road Express, you will enjoy a farewell dinner on board, as you depart for Hong Kong.

Stay: Golden Eagle Silk Road Express

Arrive in Shenzhen this morning before continuing onwards to Hong Kong, where your rail journey draws to a close. One of Asia's most dynamic cities, Hong Kong offers a fascinating blend of east and west, where glittering skyscrapers stand alongside centuries-old temples, bustling markets and historic neighbourhoods. The remainder of the day is yours to enjoy at leisure. Perhaps explore the harbourfront, ride the star ferry or simply take in the atmosphere of this remarkable city before joining your fellow travellers for a farewell dinner this evening at the hotel.

Stay: Four Seasons Hong Kong or similar

On your final day, enjoy a leisurely morning before your private transfer to the airport for your onward journey. As your journey comes to an end, depart with unforgettable memories of China's ancient dynasties, vibrant cities, spectacular landscapes and the unique experience of exploring this extraordinary country aboard one of the world's finest luxury trains.