Culinary Tour of China

(13 Days – Departs Daily on a Private Basis)
Beijing & Great Wall, Xian, Hangzhou, Shanghai, Hong Kong

This private luxury tour combines exclusive culinary experiences, in-depth cultural touring and accommodation at the best hotels in Beijing, Xian, Hangzhou, Shanghai and Hong Kong. Highlights include private cooking classes, experiencing distinct regional cuisines, touring important cultural attractions, and learning about the relationship between Chinese healing and cuisine.

Begin in Beijing, China's centuries-old capital. Enjoy a private cooking class at a prestigious culinary institution. With your private guide and driver, tour imperial masterpieces such as the Forbidden City, the Temple of Heaven and the Summer Palace. Explore the narrow hutongs (lanes) of a traditional residential neighborhood. See lesser-known temples, and venture to a little-visited hilltop for panoramic views over the rooftops of the Forbidden City. Visit markets specializing in tea, pearls, silk, food and furniture, and, if desired, explore new art gallery districts that showcase the city's burgeoning contemporary art scene. One day, take a private excursion to the Great Wall or opt to continue city touring.

Next, fly to Xian—an ancient capital and major stop on the Silk Road—to see the famed Terracotta Warriors. Also enjoy Xian's culinary highlights including food markets, a dumpling banquet, and the unique cuisine in the lively Muslim Quarter. Other touring activities include walking along the massive city walls, seeing the important Big and Small Goose Pagodas, and touring museums and other historic attractions.

Continue to Hangzhou for private touring of local tea plantations, beautiful West Lake and other highlights. From there, transfer to nearby Shanghai, China's most stylish and modern city. During a private cooking lesson, learn to prepare regional dishes such as dumplings. Also enjoy private touring of the riverfront Bund, the chic French Concession, the excellent Shanghai Museum, Yu Yuan Garden, and interesting shops and galleries. Upon request, Artisans of Leisure can arrange reservations at some of Shanghai's most acclaimed restaurants.

Conclude in Hong Kong, one of Asia's best food cities. Tour local food and herb markets, and take a private dim sum making lesson. Also enjoy flexible private cultural touring of Kowloon and Hong Kong Island. During free time, explore Hong Kong's myriad restaurants, museums, teahouses and markets.