8-Day China Tour from Hong Kong: Guilin Landscapes & Guizhou Ethnic Culture | A Scenic China and Hong Kong Journey

Summary

Day1 Hong Kong Arrival
Day2 Hong Kong: Victoria Peak, Aberdeen Fishing Village, Stanley Market, Sik Sik Yuen Wong Tai Sin Temple, Nan Lian Garden, Avenue of Stars
Day3 Hong Kong-Guilin by Bullet Train: Train to Guilin
Day4 Guilin-Yangshuo by Cruise: Li River Cruise, West Street
Day5 Yangshuo-Longsheng by Car: Longji Rice Terraces, Pingan Zhuang Village
Day6 Longsheng-Guilin-Guizhou by Bullet Train: Car to Guilin, Train to Guizhou, Zhaoxing Dong Village, Dong Ethnic Eco-Museum
Day7 Zhaoxing-Congjiang-Kaili by Car: Biasha Miao Village, Gaoyao-Rice-Terraces, Shiqiao Miao Village
Day8 Kaili Departure: Langde Upper Miao Village, Matang Gejia Village, Kaili Departure

Day1 Hong Kong Arrival

Your exciting China tour from Hong Kong begins today! Upon arrival at Hong Kong International Airport, high-speed rail station, or your hotel, your friendly English-speaking guide will be waiting to greet you with a "Your Way Holiday" sign. Whether you’re starting this unforgettable China and Hong Kong tour by air or rail, we ensure a smooth and comfortable welcome. You’ll be transferred to your hotel in downtown Hong Kong for check-in and a brief orientation. The rest of the day is free for you to relax or explore the vibrant cityscape at your own pace.

Day2 Hong Kong

Your immersive China and Hong Kong tour kicks off with a visit to the world-famous Victoria Peak, the highest point on Hong Kong Island. Ride the historic Peak Tram or travel by coach up the winding roads to reach the panoramic Sky Terrace. From here, you’ll enjoy one of Asia’s most iconic skylines—skyscrapers rising above the sparkling waters of Victoria Harbour, with green hills in the distance. Your professional English-speaking guide will help you identify key landmarks, share fascinating stories about the city’s colonial past, and explain how this hilltop has become a symbol of Hong Kong's global status. This breathtaking view is the perfect introduction to the city's dynamic spirit.

Next, step back in time at Aberdeen Fishing Village, a coastal area where traditional junks and houseboats still float peacefully beside modern luxury yachts. This unique contrast of old and new is a highlight of many China tours from Hong Kong. Your guide will walk with you along the harbor promenade, offering stories about Hong Kong’s fishing heritage, local superstitions, and life on the water. For a more immersive experience, you can opt to board a sampan (small wooden boat) for a short ride through the harbor—your guide will help arrange it on-site if desired.

From the fishing village, travel along the scenic southern coast of Hong Kong Island to arrive at Stanley Market, a bustling open-air market loved by both tourists and locals. Here you’ll find a wide array of Chinese silk, casual clothing, artwork, accessories, and souvenirs. Your guide will accompany you through the market lanes, help you uncover hidden gems, and assist with bargaining if needed. This stop offers a perfect opportunity to pick up keepsakes from your China and Hong Kong tour while enjoying the relaxed coastal atmosphere of Stanley.

At midday, your guide will escort you to a highly rated local Cantonese restaurant where you’ll savor an authentic dim sum lunch. Enjoy a variety of steamed dumplings, barbecued meats, stir-fried vegetables, and house specialties that showcase Hong Kong’s culinary reputation. Your guide will introduce each dish, explain local dining etiquette, and tailor food selections to your preferences. This relaxing meal also gives you time to rest and recharge before continuing the afternoon’s sightseeing.

In the afternoon, visit Sik Sik Yuen Wong Tai Sin Temple, one of the most beloved Taoist temples in Hong Kong. Known for granting every wish upon request, this temple is rich in spiritual symbolism and local legend. Your guide will walk you through the beautiful halls and courtyards, explaining the stories behind the temple's deities, architecture, and traditions such as kau cim (fortune stick drawing). This stop offers meaningful insight into Chinese religious practices, adding cultural depth to your China tour from Hong Kong experience.

Continue your peaceful cultural exploration with a visit to Nan Lian Garden, a hidden oasis in the heart of Kowloon. This meticulously landscaped garden is designed in the Tang Dynasty style, complete with koi ponds, ancient trees, wooden bridges, and traditional pavilions. Your guide will explain the design philosophy behind each element, revealing how harmony between nature and architecture is expressed in Chinese garden aesthetics. It’s a quiet moment of serenity amidst the fast-paced energy of the city.

End your day along the spectacular Avenue of Stars, located on the Tsim Sha Tsui waterfront. This promenade pays tribute to Hong Kong’s vibrant film industry and features the handprints and statues of cinema legends like Bruce Lee and Anita Mui. With the shimmering skyline as your backdrop, your guide will highlight iconic figures in Hong Kong cinema and help capture beautiful photos of this cinematic setting. It’s the perfect finale to your full day of exploration during this China and Hong Kong tour, blending pop culture, history, and skyline magic.

Day3 Hong Kong-Guilin by Bullet Train

Today marks the exciting transition from bustling Hong Kong to the stunning natural landscapes of Guilin on your China and Hong Kong tour. Your day begins with a professional Hong Kong driver who will pick you up directly from your downtown hotel. With your luggage safely handled, enjoy a comfortable and timely transfer to the high-speed rail station, where you will board the bullet train bound for Guilin — one of the highlights of china tours from Hong Kong.

Upon arrival at Guilin Railway Station, your local English-speaking guide will be ready to greet you warmly, holding a clearly visible "Your Way Holiday" sign to ensure a smooth meeting. Your guide will assist you with luggage and transfer to your hotel or next destination, making your arrival as effortless and welcoming as possible. This seamless handover between your Hong Kong and Guilin service teams guarantees you a stress-free start to the scenic portion of your journey.

Day4 Guilin-Yangshuo by Cruise

In the morning, your local guide will meet you at your hotel and accompany you to the river dock to board the famous Li River Cruise heading to Yangshuo. This journey is widely regarded as one of China’s most beautiful river trips, presenting ever-changing views of towering karst mountains, tranquil riverbanks shrouded in mist, and peaceful rural scenes along the way. As the boat gently moves downstream, you’ll see bamboo forests waving in the breeze, fishermen expertly casting their nets, and quaint villages nestled amid the hills, each reflecting the timeless rural lifestyle of the region. Your guide will highlight notable sights such as the Nine Horse Fresco Hill, known for the horse-like markings on its cliff face, and Yellow Cloth Shoal, a landmark immortalized on the 20 RMB note. Every bend in the river reveals new stunning vistas, transforming the cruise into a living Chinese landscape painting.

During the cruise, a delicious lunch will be served on board, allowing you to enjoy traditional local dishes while soaking in the mesmerizing scenery. You will have the opportunity to try Yangshuo’s signature Beer Fish, a specialty featuring freshly caught river fish cooked slowly in locally brewed beer with tomatoes, garlic, and ginger, delivering a fragrant and tender taste rich in umami. Another highlight is Guilin rice noodles, a beloved regional staple served in a warm savory broth topped with crispy pork, pickled vegetables, and chili oil. Your guide will share the background and cultural significance of these dishes, turning your meal into an enriching culinary experience. Surrounded by dramatic karst peaks and shimmering reflections on the water, this lunch is sure to be a memorable highlight of your journey.

Upon reaching Yangshuo, you’ll step into the bustling atmosphere of West Street, a pedestrian-only lane with a history exceeding 1,400 years. This street uniquely combines ancient Chinese architecture with a cosmopolitan vibe, blending Eastern traditions with Western influences. As you stroll along the charming cobblestone paths, you’ll encounter a fascinating mix of locals selling traditional Chinese arts like calligraphy and hand-painted fans alongside expatriates running trendy cafes and European-style bakeries. The lively street buzzes with multiple languages, the scent of fresh pastries, and the rhythmic sound of artisans crafting bamboo and silver goods. Your guide will take you off the beaten path to discover hidden tea houses serving aged pu-erh, workshops where master craftsmen create delicate silver jewelry, and quiet courtyards showcasing classical Chinese design. If you wish to purchase unique souvenirs, your guide will help you find genuine handmade crafts and Yangshuo specialties to take home.

After exploring the vibrant charm of West Street, you’ll be comfortably driven to your hotel in Yangshuo by private vehicle. Relax and take in the scenic countryside views along the way, savoring the memories of the day’s unforgettable sights and cultural encounters. Upon arrival, your guide and driver will ensure a smooth check-in at your Yangshuo hotel, concluding a day filled with natural beauty, meaningful experiences, and authentic local flavors.

Day5 Yangshuo-Longsheng by Car

After breakfast, your guide will meet you in the hotel lobby and accompany you by car to the renowned Longji Rice Terraces, famously known as the Dragon’s Backbone. This spectacular landscape of cascading rice fields is one of China’s most impressive agricultural wonders. Along the way and during the visit, your guide will share fascinating insights into the centuries-old farming methods that have shaped these terraces, as well as the rich cultures of the ethnic minorities who have inhabited this region for generations. As you hike up the mountain paths, you will enjoy panoramic views of the terraces stretching across the hills like dragon scales glittering under the sun. From the observation decks, your guide will explain the intricate irrigation system designed to allow water to flow evenly across each level and tell stories about how the Zhuang and Yao peoples have preserved these farming traditions through the years. You will also learn about the seasonal cycles of planting and harvesting that sustain local life.

For lunch, your guide will recommend a restaurant suited to your preferences, offering authentic local dishes. One must-try specialty is Lotus Leaf Braised Duck—a delicacy where tender duck is slowly cooked with pork, shrimp, mushrooms, and preserved ham, wrapped in fragrant lotus leaves. This dish is a symbol of happiness and celebration in the region. Another local favorite is fa gao, a soft and slightly sweet steamed sponge cake made from sticky rice and japonica rice flour. Traditionally enjoyed during festivals, this light cake represents good fortune and growth. Whether you prefer a rich, savory meal or a gentle, sweet treat, your guide will help you select the perfect dishes to enjoy.

After lunch, you will visit Pingan Zhuang Village, a charming settlement nestled among the terraces. The village is home to the Zhuang ethnic group, known for their unique cultural heritage. As you explore the narrow stone streets and wooden houses, your guide will share stories about the history and customs of the Zhuang people. You will have opportunities to observe local life, including traditional crafts like embroidery and handmade silver jewelry. The village is an excellent place to meet local artisans and possibly find distinctive souvenirs that showcase the area’s culture.

At the end of the day, your guide will ensure a smooth return to your hotel. Whether you choose to rest or explore the town further in the evening, your guide can provide recommendations to make the most of your time. This day promises breathtaking natural beauty combined with authentic cultural experiences that connect you deeply with Longsheng’s heritage.

Day6 Longsheng-Guilin-Guizhou by Bullet Train

Your guide will meet you at the hotel in Longsheng and accompany you by private car back to Guilin Train Station. During the transfer, your guide will share interesting stories about the region and answer any questions you may have, ensuring a comfortable and informative journey. Upon arrival at Guilin, you will board the high-speed bullet train to Guizhou. The train journey offers a smooth and efficient way to cover the distance, allowing you to relax and prepare for the next part of your adventure. Once you arrive in Guizhou, your local guide will be waiting for you at the train station holding a “Your Way Holiday” sign to warmly welcome you. They will assist you with your luggage and transfer you to your hotel or next destination.

For lunch, your guide will arrange a meal at a carefully selected local restaurant, where you can savor authentic Guizhou cuisine. One must-try dish is Sour Fish Soup, a signature of the region known for its refreshing and tangy flavor, created with fresh river fish and a blend of local herbs and chili. The sourness comes from fermented rice, offering a unique taste that perfectly balances the spices. Alongside, you may enjoy dishes featuring bamboo shoots, mushrooms, and locally grown vegetables, all reflecting the rich natural resources of Guizhou.

In the afternoon, your guide will take you to Zhaoxing Dong Village, the largest Dong ethnic minority village in China. As you stroll through the ancient wooden houses and charming streets, your guide will introduce you to the Dong people's customs, architecture, and traditional lifestyle. You’ll have the chance to see the iconic drum towers, wind and rain bridges, and hear about the village’s centuries-old cultural heritage. Your guide will facilitate meaningful interactions with local villagers, allowing you to gain deeper insights into Dong traditions and daily life.

Next, you will visit the Dong Ethnic Eco-Museum, an open-air museum that showcases the Dong culture and environment. Here, your guide will explain the significance of the exhibits, which include traditional tools, clothing, handicrafts, and agricultural techniques. You’ll learn about the Dong people's harmonious relationship with nature and their efforts to preserve both culture and ecology. The museum visit offers a comprehensive understanding of the Dong community’s unique identity and sustainable lifestyle.

At the end of the day, your guide and driver will escort you back to your hotel for a restful evening, ready for the next day’s adventures. You can relax and unwind, reflecting on the rich cultural experiences you’ve had so far. Should you need any recommendations for dinner or evening activities, your guide will be happy to assist.

Day7 Zhaoxing-Congjiang-Kaili by Car

In the morning, your guide will meet you in the lobby of your hotel in Zhaoxing and accompany you on an overland journey through the mountains of southeastern Guizhou. As you travel along winding scenic roads, you’ll pass through misty valleys, bamboo forests, and rice terraces, each turn revealing a new perspective of rural life. Your guide will provide cultural background on the Dong and Miao ethnic groups who have inhabited this region for centuries, explaining their unique languages, clan structures, and ancestral traditions. You’ll learn how generations have adapted to life in the rugged terrain, developing distinctive architecture, music, and dress that remain integral to their identity today.

Your first stop is Biasha Miao Village, a remote community renowned as “China’s last gun-bearing tribe.” Here, Miao men still carry traditional muskets and wear their hair in the distinctive “horn-shaped” topknot—an ancient warrior hairstyle maintained through ceremonial head shaving using a sickle. With your guide translating and facilitating interactions, you’ll gain insight into the community’s strict code of honor, animist beliefs, and traditional customs. Walk through wooden stilt houses surrounded by dense forest, and, if available, witness a dramatic performance featuring gun salutes and ancient rituals. Your guide will explain the significance of these practices, helping you understand how Biasha has preserved its identity in a rapidly changing world.

Around midday, your guide will take you to a local restaurant or family-run eatery to enjoy a meal of authentic Miao cuisine. Known for bold flavors and natural ingredients, Miao dishes often highlight preserved meats, wild mountain vegetables, and fermented sauces. A must-try is the “Sour Fish Soup” (suantangyu), a bright and tangy broth made from fermented rice water and local spices. Other specialties may include smoked pork belly, sticky rice wrapped in bamboo leaves, or spicy chili chicken. Your guide will help you choose dishes based on your preferences, while also explaining the cultural symbolism behind certain ingredients—like how sour flavors represent hospitality and blessings in Miao culture. Enjoy the warmth and generosity of ethnic minority cooking, which reflects both tradition and seasonality.

After lunch, continue your journey to Gaoyao Rice Terraces, a lesser-known but equally breathtaking landscape of layered paddies sculpted into the hillside. Unlike more commercialized terrace systems, Gaoyao offers a peaceful, off-the-beaten-path experience. You’ll take a short walk to a scenic overlook, where your guide will help you take in the spectacular views of emerald-green fields cascading down the mountainside like waves. They will explain how these terraces are engineered to capture and distribute water, supporting sustainable agriculture in a region where flat land is scarce. With few tourists around, this is a perfect place to pause, reflect, and photograph the beauty of traditional farming systems harmonized with nature.

Your final stop of the day is Shiqiao Miao Village, famous for preserving the ancient craft of handmade paper using bark from the native mulberry tree. At a local workshop, your guide will introduce you to artisans who still follow the centuries-old process of pulping bark, filtering fibers through stone basins, and drying sheets under the sun. You’ll see how natural dyes from indigo, flower petals, and tree sap are used to create stunning decorative patterns. The village also boasts stone-paved paths, traditional wooden houses, and lush riverside scenery. Your guide will provide context about how this paper is used in Miao festivals and ceremonies, and you may even have the chance to try your hand at making your own sheet of paper—an unforgettable cultural souvenir.

As the sun begins to set, your guide and driver will escort you to Kaili, the cultural capital of southeastern Guizhou. During the ride, your guide will offer insights about the city’s role as a hub for Miao and Dong communities and share tips on what to expect in the days ahead. Upon arrival at your hotel, they will assist with check-in and ensure that you are comfortably settled for the evening. If you're feeling energized, your guide can recommend nearby restaurants or local night markets where you can sample regional street food and shop for handmade textiles. Whether you choose to relax or explore, you’ll end the day with a deeper appreciation for the traditions, artistry, and resilience of Guizhou’s ethnic cultures.

Day8 Kaili Departure

Your day begins with a scenic drive to Langde Upper Miao Village, one of the most culturally rich and visually striking Miao communities in Guizhou. Nestled in a valley surrounded by terraced hills, this village is famous for its well-preserved stilted wooden homes, cobbled paths, and vibrant cultural traditions. Upon arrival, you’ll be welcomed with a traditional Miao greeting ceremony, which may include silver-adorned performers offering rice wine and singing folk songs. Your guide will interpret the meanings behind the elaborate Miao costumes and silver jewelry, which reflect a deep connection to ancestral beliefs and craftsmanship. As you walk through the village together, you’ll learn about local customs such as courtship rituals, family structures, and traditional embroidery techniques passed down through generations. Your guide may also introduce you to a local artisan or elder, giving you a chance for deeper interaction and understanding.

Next, continue to Matang Village, home to the Gejia people, a subgroup officially classified under the Miao but with distinct customs, attire, and myths of origin. Known for their fierce spirit and intricate batik dyeing art, the Gejia people maintain a strong cultural identity despite their small numbers. With your guide’s insights, you’ll discover the symbolism behind their warrior-like clothing, horned headdresses, and unique motifs found in their batik patterns—many of which tell stories of war, migration, and cosmic forces. Visit a local batik workshop where skilled women use wax and dye to create stunning textiles by hand. Your guide will help translate conversations and explain how these traditional methods are passed down from mother to daughter. This is a wonderful opportunity to purchase authentic, handmade souvenirs while supporting the local economy.

Before heading back to Kaili, your guide will take you to a countryside restaurant or a village home where you can enjoy your final meal in Guizhou. Savor a variety of home-cooked dishes that highlight the region’s culinary identity—perhaps including sour vegetable soup, steamed sticky rice in bamboo tubes, or sautéed mountain greens. Your guide will describe the preparation of each dish and share anecdotes about the role of food in Miao and Gejia festivals and family gatherings. This farewell lunch offers a warm and flavorful conclusion to your journey through Guizhou’s diverse ethnic cultures.

After lunch, your guide and driver will escort you back to Kaili, where they will assist you with your departure plans. Whether you are catching a high-speed train or transferring to Guiyang for a flight, your guide will ensure everything goes smoothly, from luggage handling to navigating the station. As you say goodbye, they’ll be happy to answer any last questions and offer tips for continuing your travels in China. This marks the end of your immersive experience in the heart of Guizhou’s minority regions—an unforgettable journey filled with rich traditions, stunning landscapes, and meaningful encounters.

Price Per Person in US Dollars

Price Includes 1. Cozy Ride:Enjoy the comfort and spaciousness of our air-conditioned car, offering scenic views. 2. Bilingual Expert Guide: Benefit from a personalized experience with a guide fluent in your language, catering to your needs. 3. Entrance Fees: Access all attractions and activities mentioned in the itinerary without worrying about additional entrance fees. 4. Seamless Transfer: Enhance your experience with convenient hotel or train station pickup and drop-off service. 5. Connect Seamlessly: Stay connected with complimentary onboard WiFi, allowing you to share your experiences in real-time. 6. City-to-City Train Tickets: Include the cost of train or flight tickets between the cities listed in the itinerary, ensuring a smooth and efficient travel experience. 7. Accommodations with Breakfast:  Hotel stays are included in the package. We select from trusted hotel brands, combining global chains and exclusive local brands, offering consistent service and an exceptional stay. 8. Complimentary Water: Receive a complimentary bottle of water for each person, keeping you refreshed throughout your journey. 9. Travel Agency Liability Insurance: Benefit from coverage under our travel agency liability insurance, providing added protection and peace of mind during your trip.

Price Excludes 1. Personal Expenses: This includes phone bills, laundry, additional tours, postage, and any entertainment fees not covered in the itinerary. 2. Meals: While meals are not included, our guide will recommend the best local food spots, giving you the chance to explore and choose based on your preferences. (Average cost per person for a regular meal at local eateries: 40RMB/6USD-80RMB/12USD) 3. Tips: Tips are not mandatory but are recommended for excellent service. If you feel satisfied with the service, you may consider leaving a tip. The tipping standards are as follows: Driver: 50-100 RMB per day/group; Guide: 100-200 RMB per day/group. 4. Insurance: Insurance coverage for personal loss, illness, or damages incurred during your trip is not included. 5. Optional Activities: Any optional activities listed in the itinerary are not included in the tour fees, allowing you to choose and participate based on your preferences.