Shanghai: Historic Waterfronts and Futuristic Skylines
Shanghai offers one of Asia's most compelling urban contrasts. Along the Bund, historic waterfront buildings recall the city's international trading past, while the skyscrapers of Pudong represent contemporary China's ambition and innovation.
Explore traditional temples, museums and lively neighbourhoods, or enjoy views across the Huangpu River. Shanghai is particularly appealing to travellers interested in architecture, photography, food and modern city life.
Hong Kong: Harbour Views and Cultural Contrasts
Hong Kong is renowned for its dramatic skyline, busy harbour and distinctive blend of Chinese traditions and international influences.
Discover Victoria Harbour, explore traditional markets, visit historic temples or travel up to Victoria Peak for panoramic city views. Hong Kong also offers a celebrated culinary scene, from local street-food favourites to sophisticated restaurants.
Whether you prefer lively shopping districts or quieter cultural neighbourhoods, Hong Kong offers plenty of opportunities for discovery.
Beijing: Imperial Heritage and the Great Wall
Beijing is one of China's most historically significant cities, with imperial palaces, monumental squares and important cultural landmarks.
The Forbidden City offers a glimpse into China's imperial past, while the Great Wall provides an extraordinary perspective on the country's history and engineering achievements.
Beijing is inland, so visiting it during a cruise generally requires a suitable port arrangement and additional transport or a dedicated land extension. Confirm these details before assuming the city or Great Wall is included in your voyage.
Xi'an: The Remarkable Terracotta Warriors
Xi'an was an important ancient capital and is home to the celebrated Terracotta Army, created to accompany the mausoleum of China's first emperor.
The life-size figures offer a fascinating insight into ancient craftsmanship, military organisation and imperial history. Xi'an is inland, so visiting the Terracotta Warriors requires appropriate travel arrangements rather than a simple port-side excursion on most itineraries.
Traditional Chinese Towns and Cultural Landscapes
Beyond the major cities, China offers historic towns, traditional gardens, waterways and rural landscapes that reveal a different side of the country.
Depending on the route and available excursions, you may have opportunities to explore traditional architecture, local markets and communities with long-standing cultural traditions.
These experiences can provide a rewarding contrast to the scale and energy of Shanghai and Hong Kong.