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Deep Heritage & Rice Terraces

2026▾

2026 2027

Days

Destinations

Bullet Train Legs

Fully private — just you and your party, all year round

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↑ Back to Top Overview Itinerary Stays Why This Journey Pricing & Inclusions Journey Details

10 Days

Family Safari

from $9,600 pp

Home › Journeys › China › Deep Heritage & Rice Terraces

OverviewThis is not merely a tour of ancient China. This is an immersion into an empire's deep heritage — an army of eight thousand clay soldiers standing silent guard, mist-wrapped Taoist villages, and limestone karsts that have inspired painters for a thousand years. Over ten unforgettable days, journey from the Terracotta Army of Xi'an to the fairy-tale village of Gexian, the emerald waters of the Li River, and the terraced rice fields of Longji, before a farewell night on Shanghai's Bund. Every bullet train, every transfer, every signature experience is wrapped into one seamless, all-inclusive price.

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Three nights at The Ritz-Carlton, Xi'an, steps from the ancient Muslim Quarter and City Wall

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Private guided morning at the Terracotta Army, standing before thousands of unique life-sized clay soldiers

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Full loop of the 14-kilometre Xi'an City Wall by bicycle, with panoramic views of old and new Xi'an

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Traditional Tang Dynasty music and dance performance in full period costume

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Evening boat ride along Gexian Village's waterways beneath hanging red silk lanterns

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4-hour luxury cruise down the emerald Li River, past dramatic karst peaks to Yangshuo

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Hike to the “Seven Stars Accompany the Moon” viewpoint over the Longji Dragon's Backbone Rice Terraces

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A private encounter with the Yao Ethnic Minority Village, home to women famed for their knee-length hair

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Why Travel With Finders & Keepers Safaris

All-inclusive luxury hotels and lodges — every meal, transfer and signature activity wrapped in one transparent price

VIP airport handling and private guides throughout — fast-tracked through customs, every time

Authentic encounters shaped by China's finest local guides and cultural specialists

First Class bullet trains and domestic flights between every destination — seamless, high-speed travel

Thoughtfully paced itinerary balancing iconic landmarks with quiet, unhurried moments

All entrance fees, signature experiences and a complimentary spa session — no hidden costs

Xi'an → Jiangxi → Guilin → Shanghai

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Interactive Route Map

Xi'an → Jiangxi → Guilin → Shanghai. Interactive map to be added here with day-by-day scrollspy markers.

Itinerary

Xi'an

Day 1 | Departure from Nairobi & Arrival in Xi'an

Upon your arrival at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport in Nairobi, you will receive VIP handling as you check in for your international flight to China. You will board a flight to Xi'an Xianyang International Airport (XIY). Upon arrival, you will receive VIP tarmac reception, expediting you through customs and baggage claim with ease. A private guide will transfer you to The Ritz-Carlton, Xi'an (Grand Deluxe Room). You will look forward to the stunning views of the historic city from your suite. If you arrive before 4:00 PM, you will be treated to a private guided tour of the area. You will explore the vibrant Muslim Quarter, with its street food stalls and historic mosques. The day culminates in a relaxed welcome dinner at the hotel.

The Ritz-Carlton, Xi'an →

Dinner

Day 2 | Terracotta Warriors & Ancient City Wall Cycling

Today, you will drive to the excavation pits of the Terracotta Army to see thousands of life-sized clay soldiers. You will look forward to the awe-inspiring sight of the army, with each soldier having a unique face and expression. Your guide will explain the history and significance of this UNESCO World Heritage site. In the afternoon, you will rent bicycles and ride completely around the 14-kilometer Xi'an City Wall. You will look forward to the panoramic views of the city from the wall, with the traditional buildings and the modern skyline. In the evening, you will watch the musical fountain show at the plaza outside the Giant Wild Goose Pagoda. Your stay remains at The Ritz-Carlton, Xi'an.

The Ritz-Carlton, Xi'an →

Breakfast

Day 3 | Hanyangling Underground Museum & Tang Dynasty Dance

Today, you will visit the hidden gem Hanyangling Museum to walk over glass floors viewing miniature terracotta figures. You will look forward to the unique experience of walking over the glass, with the ancient figures beneath your feet. You will stroll through the peaceful grounds of the Great Mosque of Xi'an, blending Islamic and Chinese architecture. You will look forward to the serene atmosphere of the mosque, with its traditional Chinese design. In the evening, you will attend a traditional Tang Dynasty music and dance performance. You will look forward to the colorful costumes and the beautiful music and dance of the Tang Dynasty. Your stay remains at The Ritz-Carlton, Xi'an.

The Ritz-Carlton, Xi'an →

Breakfast

Jiangxi — Gexian Village

Day 4 | Bullet Train to Jiangxi & Gexian Village River Lanterns

After breakfast, you will board a morning high-speed bullet train from Xi'an to Shangrao Station. You will look forward to the comfortable journey through the Chinese countryside. Upon arrival, you will transfer via private car to Gexian Fairy Village and check into Gexian Village Pillow Pine Inn (Traditional Luxury Suite). You will look forward to the traditional architecture and the fairy-tale atmosphere of the village. In the evening, you will take an evening boat ride along the village waterways under hanging red silk lanterns. You will look forward to the romantic atmosphere of the boat ride, with the lanterns reflecting on the water.

Gexian Village Pillow Pine Inn →

Breakfast

Day 5 | Taoist Sanctuary Hike & Cultural Workshops

Today, you will hike up the stone staircases into the forested valleys of Gexian Mountain. You will look forward to the stunning views of the mountain and the forest, with the Taoist temples hidden in the valleys. You will participate in a village workshop to learn traditional Chinese calligraphy or paper umbrella making. You will look forward to the hands-on experience of learning these traditional crafts. You will dine at an authentic mountain tavern serving stewed wild mushrooms and local rice wine. Your stay remains at Gexian Village Pillow Pine Inn.

Gexian Village Pillow Pine Inn →

Breakfast, Dinner

Guilin

Day 6 | Bullet Train to Guilin & Karst River Views

After breakfast, you will take a morning high-speed train south from Shangrao to Guilin (approx. 5.5 hours). You will look forward to the scenic journey through the changing landscapes, with the karst mountains appearing on the horizon. Upon arrival, you will check into The Shangri-La Guilin (Deluxe River View Room). You will look forward to the stunning views of the Li River and the karst mountains from your suite. You will walk around the city's central Twin Pagodas (Sun and Moon). You will enjoy a quiet evening dining on local Guilin rice noodles along the lakeshore.

The Shangri-La Guilin →

Breakfast, Dinner

Yangshuo

Day 7 | Li River Cruise to Yangshuo Countryside

Today, you will embark on a 4-hour luxury cruise down the emerald Li River, navigating past karst mountains. You will look forward to the stunning views of the karst peaks, with their dramatic shapes and the mist rising from the water. You will disembark in the vibrant town of Yangshuo and browse the shops along West Street. You will take an afternoon bicycle or sidecar tour through the scenic paddy fields of the Yulong River Valley. You will check into Banyan Tree Yangshuo (Karst View Luxury Suite). You will look forward to the stunning views of the karst mountains from your suite. You enjoy a gourmet dinner at the resort.

Banyan Tree Yangshuo →

Breakfast, Dinner

Day 8 | Longji Dragon's Backbone Rice Terraces

Today, you will drive north into the steep mountains to explore the Longji Rice Terraces. You will look forward to hiking up to the “Seven Stars Accompany the Moon” viewpoint to see layers of agricultural terraces cascading down the mountainside. You will visit a local Yao Ethnic Minority Village to meet women famous for their knee-length hair and hand-woven attire. You will look forward to learning about their traditions and culture. Your stay remains at Banyan Tree Yangshuo.

Banyan Tree Yangshuo →

Breakfast

Shanghai

Day 9 | Fly to Shanghai & Shanghai Ocean Aquarium

After breakfast, you will take a morning domestic flight from Guilin Airport (KWL) to Shanghai. Upon arrival, you will head straight to the Shanghai Ocean Aquarium to see rare marine life from the Yangtze River and global oceans. You will look forward to exploring the 155-meter underwater tunnel and viewing the diverse marine life. You will celebrate your final evening with a farewell dinner overlooking the river at the Bund. You will check into The Peninsula Shanghai (Deluxe Bund View Room) for your final night.

The Peninsula Shanghai →

Breakfast, Dinner

Day 10 | Shanghai Departure & Complementary Spa Day

On your final morning, enjoy a relaxed luxury breakfast overlooking the Bund. You will then check out and be transferred to your city hotel, where you have been booked for a complimentary spa session to relax and rejuvenate after your incredible journey. If you were not taken for a city tour upon arrival on Day 1, this is when you will be offered a private guided tour of Shanghai, exploring the Bund, the historic lane houses, and the vibrant markets. You will enjoy this time at your leisure as you unwind from the expedition. The following day, you will be transferred back to Shanghai Pudong International Airport for your connecting international flight back to Nairobi.

City Hotel, Shanghai →

Breakfast

Want to adjust the pace, swap a lodge, or extend this journey?

We are here for that. Every Finders & Keepers Safaris itinerary is a starting point, not a fixed departure — the pace, the lodges, the length, the dates and the party travelling can all be reshaped around you. Tell us what you would change and a specialist will rebuild the journey and price it honestly, before you commit to anything.

Tailor This Journey →

Your Accommodation

Five Extraordinary Stays

NIGHTS 1–3

Xi'an, China

The Ritz-Carlton, Xi'an

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Jiangxi, China

NIGHTS 4–5

Jiangxi, China

Gexian Village Pillow Pine Inn

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NIGHT 6

Guilin, China

The Shangri-La Guilin

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Yangshuo, China

NIGHTS 7–8

Yangshuo, China

Banyan Tree Yangshuo

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NIGHT 9

Shanghai, China

The Peninsula Shanghai

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Why This Journey

What sets this journey apart

The Terracotta Army and Xi’an’s city wall by bike, a lantern-lit village, the Li River and the Dragon’s Backbone rice terraces.

Soldiers and a wall

A private guided morning with the Terracotta Army, the 14-kilometre Xi’an City Wall cycled in full, and a Tang Dynasty music and dance performance in period costume.

A village of lanterns

An evening boat ride along Gexian Village’s waterways beneath red silk lanterns, and a Taoist sanctuary hike.

Karst peaks and terraces

A four-hour luxury Li River cruise to Yangshuo past dramatic karst peaks, the Dragon’s Backbone rice terraces at Longji, and a finish at The Peninsula Shanghai.

Shoulder SeasonJan – MaySpring blossom, comfortable touring weather

Best ValueMay – SepSummer heat and holiday crowds

Peak SeasonSep – DecAutumn colour, ideal touring conditions

Best forFirst China tripsCulture loversPhotographers

Plan this journey with us →

Inclusions & Offers

Deposit Offer

Hold 2027 for half the usual deposit

Confirm any 2027 departure with a 15% deposit instead of the usual 30%, booked before 31 December 2026.

Your balance is not due until 60 days before departure.
The reduced deposit holds your camps, permits and internal flights at today’s rates, so a mid-year price movement does not reach you.
Applies to new 2027 bookings only and cannot be combined with a group discount on the same booking.

Solo Travellers

30% off the single supplement

Travelling on your own? We cut the single traveller supplement by 30% across selected 2027 departures.

The supplement covers the sole-occupancy cost a camp charges when a room sleeps one rather than two.
Available on selected camps and dates — your specialist will tell you which of your nights qualify before you commit.
Nothing changes about the journey itself: same guide, same vehicle, same rooms.

Group Offer

Bring three, the fourth travels free

Book four guests on a 2027 group departure and the fourth guest’s safari cost is on us.

The waiver covers the land portion — camps, meals, guiding and game drives.
International flights, visas, gorilla and chimpanzee permits and personal spending are excluded, as those are paid to third parties per head.
All four guests must travel on the same departure date and book together.

What's Included

All accommodation, Full Board
All First Class bullet train & domestic flight
VIP airport meet-and-greet & private guide
Terracotta Army private guided tour
Xi'an City Wall bicycle rental
Tang Dynasty performance
Li River luxury cruise to Yangshuo
Longji Rice Terraces & Yao Village visit
All entrance fees & signature activities
Complimentary spa session, Shanghai
Airport transfers (all)
Private guide throughout
✓Travel insurance facilitated on your behalf (adjusted in your quote if you are already covered)

What's Not Included

International flights to/from Xi'an & Shanghai
Gratuities for guides & hotel staff
Additional spa sessions beyond the complimentary one
Items of a personal nature

Per Person Pricing

Per Person Sharing $9,800

Single Traveller Supplement $2,950

ⓘ Prices are per person based on double/twin sharing. Single travellers pay the supplement above. All optional activities and signature experiences are included. Speak to us for availability and group rates.

2027 Season Pricing

The same unforgettable journey, priced by season.

Jan – May Shoulder SeasonSpring blossom, comfortable touring weather

$10,300

May – Sep Best ValueSummer heat and holiday crowds

$9,600

Sep – Dec Peak SeasonAutumn colour, ideal touring conditions

$10,800

Flexible Payment Plan

Reserve today with a low early deposit to lock in your 2027 dates and pricing.

Spread the rest across convenient instalments, at a pace that suits you.

Final balance due one month before departure — nothing more to pay once you fly.

Speak To Us

Journey Details

Travel Kit

Duffel, sun hat, rain shell and day pack

Your duffel — A soft-sided Finders & Keepers Safaris duffel, sized for domestic flights and easier than a hard case on train platforms, ferry jetties and old-town lanes.
What is inside it — A wide-brim sun hat, a lightweight packable rain shell for tropical downpours, and a foldable day pack for temple mornings and market afternoons.
Yours to keep — The bag and everything in it is a gift, not a loan.
Packing around it — Slip-on shoes save time at temples, where you remove them repeatedly, and one set of clothing covering shoulders and knees is essential for religious sites.

Note

Some regions require additional internal permits

Travel to certain border or minority regions may require additional permits arranged in advance by your guide. Air quality can vary in major cities — pack accordingly if sensitive.

Early starts — The best of this journey happens at dawn — before the heat, the crowds and the haze. Your guide will confirm what time you will be collected from your hotel.
Tailoring this journey — If you would like this package with more or fewer days, arranged for a group, a family or a solo traveller, or with add-ons, reach out and we will tailor it for you.
Route changes — Your guide or driver may alter the route in certain circumstances, but every destination set out in the itinerary will be covered.

Documents

Visa required in advance for most nationalities

Passport — Valid for at least six months beyond your arrival date, with at least two blank pages for stamps.
Visa-free entry — China’s unilateral visa-free scheme covers most EU member states plus the UK, Australia, Canada, New Zealand and around fifty countries in total, for stays of up to 30 days, and has been extended to the end of 2026. US passport holders still require a visa.
Visa-free transit — Separately, a 240-hour visa-free transit applies at many ports of entry where you hold an onward ticket to a third country.
Police registration — Every foreign visitor must be registered with the local police within 24 hours of arrival. Hotels do this for you automatically; a private home or apartment stay means registering in person.
We handle the paperwork — We complete and submit your visa, eVisa or travel-authorisation applications on your behalf. You supply the documents once; we do the filing, track the approval and hold the confirmations for you.
Where you must appear in person — A few consulates insist on biometrics or a short interview that nobody can sit on your behalf — China requires fingerprinting for some nationalities, as do European and United States visas. We still prepare the entire file; we simply book you a single appointment and brief you beforehand so one visit settles it.
Before you travel — Entry rules change frequently and without much notice. Your specialist confirms the current requirements for every passport in your party at the time of booking, and checks them again before you fly.

Guaranteed Departures

Private, tailor-made departures on your dates, or join a small group

Once confirmed, you travel — When your departure date is confirmed, it is guaranteed. We do not cancel, merge or reschedule a confirmed departure for commercial reasons, however the final numbers fall.
What confirms a departure — A departure becomes confirmed once the agreed number of travellers has been reached and paid for in line with the agreed payment schedule. Places held without payment do not count towards it.
If the minimum is not reached — Where a group departure has not reached its agreed numbers, we tell you early rather than late, and you choose: move to the next available date, continue at a revised small-group rate, or take a full refund of everything you have paid.
Solo journeys — Solo and tailor-made itineraries carry no group minimum at all. Your dates are confirmed the moment your deposit is received.

A deposit of 30% is required to confirm your booking, with the balance due 60 days before departure. All itineraries can be tailored — extend a stay, add a destination, or adjust the pace to suit you. Comprehensive travel insurance covering trip cancellation, medical evacuation and personal effects is required for all guests. Your dedicated specialist remains on call throughout your journey for any changes or assistance you need.

What to pack — Light layers and slip-on shoes, which you will take off repeatedly at temples, shrines and traditional inns. Shoulders and knees must be covered to enter most religious sites, so pack at least one modest set you can throw on. A light rain shell handles the tropical downpours, and the highlands and northern cities run far cooler than the coast — bring a proper warm layer if your route climbs.