Hong Kong: apart from being one of the world’s global financial centers, the metropolitan city ranks highly for top-notch standards in its service and hospitality sectors. Many exciting accommodation choices are available, some of which will take you above skyscrapers with drop-dead vistas of the city. Read on for our top 5 picks for Hong Kong hotels.

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5. Langham Hong Kong

The stunning foyer of the Langham Hong Kong. Photo via Langham Hotels

The Langham Hong Kong recently received the Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star Rating Award and was named one of Travel + Leisure 500 – World Best Hotels. Located in Tsimshatsui, Hong Kong’s exclusive shopping district, the Langham evokes classical British luxury and provides a perfect blend of past and present. The hotel incorporates fine fabrics and silk drapes into its bespoke design. Guests can enjoy an immersive British “Langham Afternoon Tea ” experience with tailor-made Langham Rose tea ware and a special menu created by culinary experts. To satiate your palate, the Langham houses three well-rated restaurants including the three Michellin-starred T’ang Court which serves authentic Cantonese cuisine reflecting the classic timelessness of the Tang Dynasty. The Star Ferry with sensational views of the Victoria Harbor is a short walk away.

4. Mandarin Oriental Hong Kong

Inside the Mandarin Oriental’s top-rated restaurant. Photo via Mandarin Oriental

If you want an awe-inspiring view of Victoria Harbor as you tuck in for bed, look no farther than the Mandarin Oriental. The Mandarin Oriental Hong Kong is the first and flagship hotel of the Mandarin Oriental hotel group. This iconic hotel is as legendary as the city of Hong Kong itself. It boasts a central location, five-star facilities, and is renowned for its sleek design, impressive service and exquisite blend of luxury and comfort. The style itself is bold and bright, yet retains a cozy charm reminiscent of old Hong Kong. Rooms are well-refurbished and redesigned to maximize space; service is as tip-top as any other luxury hotel in Hong Kong. Gourmands will love the three, Michelin-starred restaurants within the hotel – Pierre, with two stars, the Mandarin Grill and Cantonese restaurant, and Man Wah, each of with one-star. A stay at the Mandarin Oriental is an indulgent getaway from it all.

3. Island Shangri-La

Check-in at Island Shangri’La’s opulent lobby. Photo via Island Shangri-La

Island Shangri-La is all about old-school opulence – 779 Austrian and Venetian chandeliers bedeck its premises; the largest Chinese silk painting in the world can be observed from the bubble lifts while Fragonard drawings hang on some corridors. Elegant rooms are equipped with plush beds and spacious bathrooms – opt for a harbor-view room and you won’t be disappointed. Dining options include Michelin-starred Summer Palace, which serves Cantonese cuisine, as well as Café TOO, loved by locals for their international buffets on weekends.

 

2. Upper House

The modern chic of the rooms at the Upper House. Photo via the Upper House

The Upper House exudes modern Hong Kong style with a uniquely urban feel. The interiors are sumptuously designed by one of England’s top designers and feature bamboo, limestone and plush cushions in warm hues. The rooms, starting from the 38th floor, provide one-of-a-kind views and a respite from the bustling sounds of cars and street vendors down below. Like its sister properties, The Opposite House Beijing and The Temple House in Chengdu, the Upper House perfectly embodies the sleek modernity and urbane cool of the international mega-city. No compromises have been made on the artistic detail of this sophisticated boutique hotel. The Upper House is a great choice for business folk as well as shoppers – the hotel is in the same building as the glitzy Pacific Place mall.

1. Peninsula Hotel

The iconic pool at the Peninsula Hotel. Photo via Peninsula Hotel

• By far the most opulent hotel in Hong Kong, the iconic Peninsula is known as the Grande Dame of the East. This flagship hotel of the Peninsula brand provides guest with a one-of-a-kind, uniquely Hong Kong experience. Upon arrival, guests step into the timeless colonial glamour of a bygone era. Established in 1928, the hotel effortlessly combines the luxury of the past with modern renovations like LED touch wall panels. The spectacular open air Roman-style pool and state-of-the-art fitness center offer unobstructed views of the harbor. Arrive in style in one of the custom “Peninsula Green” Rolls Royces or Mini-Coopers. And our favorite part – AsiaTravel can make you an instant VIP with our PenClub benefits. If all of this luxury hasn’t wowed you yet, take to the air (the Pen is the only hotel with a helipad in Hong Kong) for a world-class view over Victoria Harbor or sightseeing excursions to less visited islands. You’ll never want to leave!

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Want to test out the pillows for yourself? Be our guest on a customized Hong Kong: Pearl of the Orient tour and find your favorite home away from home in Hong Kong.

 

Goldfish, birds, toys, clothes and electronics – there seems to be a street in Hong Kong for just about every type of commodity you might need. Inside the checkered warren of the city’s lanes you will find many great bargains, and interesting slices of local life. Here are some to visit during your next trip to the city:  

Photo by Barney Moss via Flickr

Southern part of Hong Kong Island

Stanley Market

Address: Hong Kong, Stanley, Stanley New St, 赤柱赤柱大街

Set in the seaside town of Stanley on Hong Kong Island’s south coast, Stanley Market is known for its huge selection of bargain clothes, inexpensive Chinese knick-knacks and household goods. At its Western end is Tin Hau Temple. Built by the notorious pirate Cheung Po Tsai in 1767, it remains one of the oldest temples in Hong Kong. An easy 25-minute walk takes you to the beach, where bars, pubs and restaurant line the waterfront.

Opens 10am to 5pm daily.

 

Yau Ma Tei, Kowloon side

Photo by Daniel Chodusov via Flickr

Temple Street Night Market

Address: Temple Street, Yau Ma Tei, Kowloon

Few places in Hong Kong are livelier than Temple Street, a popular street bazaar named after the Tin Hau temple at its center. Stall vendors lay out their wares every night from as early as 4pm, selling trinkets, watches, electronics, leather and menswear. While the stalls are mainly aimed at locals, the market’s popularity with tourists has driven prices up, and you might find better deals in the shops hidden behind the stalls. Fortune-tellers, street doctors, impromptu performances of Cantonese opera and the clack of mahjong tiles further add to the festivity of the market.

Opens 5pm – 11pm daily.

Jade Market

Address: Junction of Kansu Street and Battery Street, Yau Ma Tei, Kowloon

Halfway between Yau Ma Tei and Jordan on Kansu Street is the Jade Market, two solid blocks of flea markets and shops selling everything from high quality jade jewelry and figurines to glass trinkets. Genuine jade can range in color from milky white to a beautiful deep green. Another common hue is a cream color with brown or yellow flecks. Be careful about imitation jade at the market and always start with a bargaining price about 50% of what the vendor offered. The more eager he is to give it away the more you should suspect it is not the real McCoy.

Opens 9am to 5pm daily.

Photo by Mitch Altman via Flickr

Mongkok, Kowloon side

Ladies Street

Address: Tung Choi Street, Mong Kok, Kowloon

This market on Tung Choi Street boasts over 100 stalls of bargain clothing, accessories and souvenirs across a one-kilometer stretch. More popular with tourists, prices here are comparatively higher than other markets. It does offer plenty of haggling fun for cheap souvenirs, ‘I Love HK’ t-shirts, accessories and other curios. Fashion here is often more “auntie” than trendy.

Opens 12pm to 10pm daily.

Photo by Geneva Vanderzeil via Flickr

Flower Market

Address: Flower Market Road, Prince Edward, Kowloon

Immerse yourself among the exotic blooms and scents of Hong Kong’s Flower Market. The 50 or so shops and wholesalers get especially busy during the period before Chinese New Year, as families flock towards the market to buy auspicious flowers and plants for the new lunar cycle.

Opens 7am to 7pm daily.

Bird Market 

Address: Yuen Po Street, Prince Edward, Kowloon       

Designed in the charming style of a traditional Chinese garden, the Yuen Po Street Bird Garden is a pleasant place to witness the old Chinese hobby of bird-keeping. Elderly men gather here, carrying their their feathered friends in intricately crafted bamboo cages. Sweet birdsongs ring out from the stalls selling exotic birds, porcelain water dishes and other related paraphernalia.

Opens 7am to 8pm daily.

Photo by Rob Web via Flickr

Goldfish Market

Address: Tung Choi Street North, Mong Kok, Kowloon

Locals head to the Goldfish Market to buy luck-bringing goldfish, aquarium pets, corals, aquariums, and aquatic ornaments. It is common to see oxygen-sealed plastic bags of goldfish (and other weirdly shaped ones) hung on racks and ready for sale.  You’ll also spot a few amphibians and reptiles crawling about.

Opens 10.30am to 10pm daily.

Shanghai Street

Address: 312-343 Shanghai Street, Yau Ma Tei, Kowloon

Shanghai Street is one of the city’s oldest thoroughfares; a walk here gives you a glimpse of disappearing Hong Kong, of old Chinese opera houses and beautifully preserved shop-house buildings. It is also a great place to buy affordable kitchenware including handcrafted items like sandalwood fans and bamboo steam baskets used for dim sum usually sold in family-owned shops.

Opens 10am to 10pm daily.

Sham Shui Po, Kowloon side

Photo by Marcel Druck via Flickr

Apliu Street

Address: Apliu Street, Sham Shui Po, Kowloon

In the heart of Sham Shui Po, vendors at the popular street market sell new and second-hand electronic devices, audio-visual equipment and telecommunications products at bargain prices. Tip: Check the voltage and plug/socket of the item for electronic compatibility.

Opens 10am to 10pm daily.

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Excited to venture out and explore the vibrant markets of Hong Kong? Book AsiaTravel’s Hong Kong: Pearl of the Orient tour.

AsiaTravel have secured a great offer for your 2016 summer and winter stays at Peninsula Hong Kong.

• By far the most opulent hotel in Hong Kong, the iconic Peninsula is known as the Grande Dame of the East. This flagship hotel of the Peninsula brand provides guests with a one-of-a-kind, uniquely Hong Kong experience. Upon arrival, guests step into the timeless colonial glamour of a bygone era and the hotel effortlessly combines the luxury of the past with modern renovations, a spectacular open air Roman-style pool and a state-of-the-art fitness center offering unobstructed views of Victoria harbor.
• As well as offering up to 15% off your stay this summer and winter guests who book with AsiaTravel for two consecutive nights or more can enjoy complimentary buffet breakfast for two people for the duration of their stay.
• And there’s more… AsiaTravel can also make you an instant VIP with our PenClub benefits.

To book your stay contact info@wildchina.com or go one better and be our guest on a customized Hong Kong: Pearl of the Orient tour 

 

 

Guilin has much to offer the tourist who wants to see the real, wild heart of China. We’ve compiled the best selections from our tours in Guilin to inspire you to visit this pristine, exotic region.

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Carlos Adampol Galindo via Flickr

Guilin is home to China’s most archetypal scenery. The green karst peaks reflect on tranquil rivers and waves of water-filled rice paddies ripple across slopes of verdant mountains. This lush scenery is the embodiment of Chinese natural aesthetic principle, “lǜshuǐ qīngshān.” (Green hills and blue waters)

Step into the landscape you see reflected in Chinese ink paintings, the vivid inspiration for centuries of poems, songs, and legends. The summer season until October is the best time to visit.

But before we show you the best of Guilin, let’s get something straight. When people say Guilin, they’re really talking about two different places: Longsheng and Yangshuo. These two towns embody Guilin’s beauty and atmosphere. We recommend a day trip to Longsheng to see the stunning rice terraces, then return to Guilin for the night and head to Yangshuo for 2-3 days the next day.

Here are our top recommendations to make the most of your trip to Guilin in both Longsheng and Yangshuo:

Longsheng

Llee Wu via Flickr

Dragon’s Backbone Rice Terraces

After an early morning drive from Guilin to the Zhuang minority village of Ping’an, our guides will take you on your choice of hikes through ribbons of undulating rice terraces. In May, the still-unplanted terraces of water will mirror the white clouds and color of the sky above, yielding some of the best opportunities for photographers to shoot the sunrise. As harvest season approaches in early fall, venturing out onto the mountain slopes gives travelers the chance to witness Zhuang farmers covering the slopes, bending down into the harvest and tending to the intricate bamboo and earthen irrigation systems which give life to the mountainside.

Yangshuo

P Bibler via Flickr

Bamboo Raft  

One of our favorite things about Guilin is that you don’t have to travel by car. Instead, take a traditional bamboo raft down the wide, green waters of the Li River from Yangshuo to the remote village of Xingping. It’s not a fast ride, so take off your shoes and let your feet trail in the cool water off the side of the boat as your raftsman guides you down the river with karst giants towering above on each side.

Biking 

From Xingping or Yangshuo you can easily explore deeper into the surrounding villages and landscapes by hopping on a bike. Out in the rural areas cars are few and the roads are smooth, so this is one of the best ways to get away from summer tourists and make your own journey through the peaks, rice fields, and old villages of Guilin.

Impressions of LiuSanjie

The blue waters of the Li River and surrounding misty karst peaks serve as the stage and backdrop to this contemporary impressionist performance of and old Zhuang romance legend. It’s choreographed by Zhang Yimou, the mastermind behind the 2008 Beijing Olympic Opening Ceremony. Sit back on the banks of the Li and enjoy the song and performance of local fishermen, actors, and children as a brilliant light show dances off the water and surrounding karst rock.

Yuan 2003 via Flickr

Hiking

While you’ll spend the majority of your time marveling at the karst landscape from below, spending the effort to get a view of the Li River and mist enshrouded mountains from above is more than worth it. When looking up these forested monoliths seem impossible to climb, but several peaks in the area are accessible by ancient stone stairs leading to pavilions and panoramic views. Each peak takes about thirty minutes to climb. Xianggong Mountain and Xilang Hill in Yangshuo offer some of the convenient options for families and those in Yangshuo (railings, constructed viewing platform, etc), while Laozhai Hill in Xingping is more remote but offers one of the best sunset viewing spots in the area.

Cooking Class

Take a break from the outdoors and dig your hands into local culture with our traditional Guilin chefs as they teach you how to cook local style in a brick courtyard house. Classic dishes will include recipes featuring chicken and pork and a variety of seasonal vegetables. A favorite of our travelers is jiandan jiao, a simple but mouth-watering dish of steaming dumplings fried in egg.

Landscape Painting class

Try your hand at following the Chinese classical art masters who used Guilin’s landscape as their inspiration. Under the guidance of our local professional artists, use traditional Chinese horse or rabbit hair brushes and mo, Chinese ink, to paint the surrounding mountains and rivers around you onto delicate rice paper. If you’re looking to make something more practical, you can do the painting on your own, original Chinese paper fan!

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Ready to take in Guilin’s jade-green rice terraces, spectacular karst peaks and mouth-watering food? Join us on the Guilin – Into the Scroll tour.

A hidden gem of China’s Southwest, Guizhou is an ideal destination for those who want to venture off the beaten path. Although many travelers visit Guizhou for its diverse minority cultures and vibrant music festivals, Guizhou is also rich in natural beauty.

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Among the colorful ethnic minority villages, Guizhou‘s also spotted with rustic lakeside farms and terraced rice fields. Home to one of the most beautiful karst caves in China and many precious animals, Guizhou will not disappoint you whether you’re interested in seeing wildlife or bizarre sites of nature.

Here’s a list of what to do in Guizhou (other than dancing and sipping rice wine at minority festivals):

 Gilles Vogt via Flickr

Zhijin Cave

Originally called Daji Cave because young Miao minority children used to play badminton here, Zhijin Cave is known as the King of Caves. It not only boasts a magnificent collection of stalactites, but it also possesses the world’s largest unsupported roof span of any cave. Wandering through the forest of sparkling stones shaped like flowers, drums, and pillars, you might think you’ve walked into a mysterious underground palace. When you visit the 200-meter long Yingbin Hall covered in moss, make sure you stop at Luoqian (‘falling money’) Hole where drops of water continuously fall into the cave like hundreds of shining coins in the sunshine. Then, you can take a detour to the little cave beside Yingbing Hall to admire a ten-meter stalactite that looks like a mushroom cloud formed after a nuclear explosion.

Photo via TripAdvisor

One Hundred Mile Azalea Forest

As the name suggests, One Hundred Mile Azalea Forest is the largest natural rhododendron forest in the world.  During the flowering season from early March to the middle of May, the hills become a drawing palette of beautiful colors including dark red, light yellow, creamy white, and purplish blue. The perfect spot to marvel at this ocean of azaleas is Shuhua Peak where you can stand on the highest peak of the forest and admire the flowers bright enough to give the skyline a pinkish tint. If you look carefully as you walk through the forest, you might see different types of azaleas blooming on the same shrub which is very rare in nature.

Even if you miss the flowering season, you should still visit One Hundred Mile Azalea Forest because it offers more than azaleas. You can explore one of the limestone caves hidden behind towering trees or take a boat ride on the 400 acre Bailidujuan Lake which is a lush green color in summer and slightly tinged with orange in autumn. You might also see some rare birds like the golden pheasant.

Sujun Suajem via Flickr

Huangguoshu Waterfall

Another spot in Guizhou that you should not miss is Huangguoshu Waterfall, the largest waterfall in Asia, spanning 101 meters in width and 78 meters in height. We recommend viewing it from multiple points to fully appreciate its beauty. Start with a panoramic view of the waterfall from the Waterfall-Viewing Pavilion, where you can see the waterfall from a distance. Then, switch to the Water-Viewing Stage for a bird’s eye view. You can see the waterfall from its bottom at the second Waterfall-Viewing Stage, where you raise your head to admire this sublime waterfall. Finally stand in the Water-Curtain Cave to touch the waterfall and let a few drops of water sprinkle on your face.

Caohai Lake

A grassy lake with mild temperature, Caohai Lake is an ideal habitat for birds and home to 184 bird species, so it’s a must-see for bird-enthusiasts. If you visit Caohai Lake in winter, you’ll see black-necked cranes, the only plateau crane left in the world, gracefully walking on grasslands and hunting fish in the water. The best way to explore the lake is to hire a flat-bottomed boat and watch the cranes, eagles, and storks enjoying a warm winter as you meander through the channels.

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The natural wonders of Guizhou are a calming respite from your daily routine. Venture through this serene landscape, dotted with vibrant minority villages on one of our two tours through the region: Old Country Living and Hidden Guizhou. 

 

Sometimes overlooked by tourists on their way to more famous destinations, Guiyang has a lot to offer the discerning traveller.

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Nicknamed the ‘Forest City’ and the ‘Summer Capital of China,’ Guiyang’s history dates back to the 13th century, and it is surrounded by beautiful Guizhou scenery.

Whether you’re interested in traditional Chinese villages, a picturesque hike in a stream filled valley, or discovering China’s biggest waterfall, you’ll find that Guiyang and its surroundings has more than enough to keep you enthralled for 24 hours. Here are a few suggestions…

Yunshantun Old Han Village

Source: Zhangzhugang

Built in the 14th century, the Old Han Village showcases the remaining culture of the Han Chinese ethnic group. The ancestors of these villages migrated from Jiangxi to Guizhou during the Ming Dynasty, bringing with them an ancient culture which survives to this day. During your visit you’ll see women dressed in traditional Ming Dynasty costumes, and houses that remain faithful to the Ming architectural style.

 

Xijiang Miao Village

Source: MDRX

If you’re willing to venture further out of town, you’ll find the largest gathering place of the Miao ethnic minority, where over 1000 Miao family live in the traditional way. You can watch traditional cultural performances and enjoy the views of the rice paddy fields and wooden-stilted houses stretching out into the distance.

Whilst there, check out the Miao Nationality Museum to learn about the history and culture of the Miao people, and climb up to the viewing platform to enjoy a unique panorama of a village that is unlike anything you’ll find elsewhere in the world.

Damochong Valley

Source: Philippe Semanaz

Spend the cool afternoon hiking through the Damochong Valley. Forget the energy of the city and relax in nature, listening to the flowing streams and wandering through a dense bamboo forest. Instead of cars and shopping malls, the valley is inhabited by quaint local villages, where traditional ways of life still thrive. You’ll get the chance to learn the traditional methods of papermaking from the locals who call this valley their home.

 

Huangguoshu Waterfall

Source: WaitinZ

A short trip out of town is the justifiably famous Huangguoshu Waterfall. Almost 80 metres high and 100 metres wide, it is the biggest waterfall in China. Replace the hum of the city with the roar of the water, and discover the surrounding limestone caves and ancient forests.

With history and nature to rival almost anywhere else in China, you’ll find Guiyang well worth the trip, and a marked contrast from your experience in first tier cities like Shanghai and Beijing. Twenty four hours is enough for a meaningful experience. Of course, if you can stay longer, you’ll have access to even more of the wonder this city has to offer.

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Curious about the hidden treasures of Guiyang? Join AsiaTravel on one of our two trips to Guiyang and the surrounding areas of Guizhou and Guangxi: Old Country Living and Hidden Guizhou

 

Updated: March 19, 2019

Suzhou’s stunning canals and decorated gardens make this little city the perfect getaway from the bustling metropolis of Shanghai. If you only have one day to indulge in a break from it all, you’ll need to look no further than Suzhou for rest and relaxation mixed with authentic cultural experiences.

With frequent high-speed trains running in and out of Shanghai (approximately a 25 minute train ride from the city), a day trip to Suzhou is a perfect respite from the big city life. Whether it’s your first time in town, or you’re back for more, we’ve put together a list of places that combine the classic spots with alternative choices that will bring out a different side of Suzhou you wouldn’t see on the usual tourist itinerary.

 

Suzhou Canals by _chrisUk via Flickr

First Stop, Gardens: Humble Administrator’s or Tiger Hill?

 

Humble Administrator Garden

This is one of Suzhou’s largest classic gardens, and its popularity reflects that. This, we believe, is a good reason to avoid it. Don’t get us wrong – it’s a beautiful place, but with fame come long lines. If you’re going to go here, we suggest you avoid peak seasons and times, such as very early in the morning.

But what’s so great about the area? The gardens here reflect the refined artistic tastes of the Ming and Qing dynasties, which saw garden cultivation as a form of artistic expression. Its name and origin come from a man, Wang Xianchen, who fell out of favor because of his outspoken criticism of the then-Emperor. He may not have been very politically savvy, but his garden-founding talents have stood the test of time.

If you want a similar experience, but without the bustling crowds, might we suggest…

Tiger Hill Garden

Suzhou was founded in the 6th century BC by a man named He Lu; to celebrate the founder’s accomplishments, Tiger Hill is said to demarcate his burial place. On top of this, it is also known for the Cloud Rock Pagoda complex, which looms over the surroundings like a guard on watch, and for its well-kept scenery and various historical sites.

We prefer Tiger Hill to the Humble Administrator’s Garden because it is a lesser-known secret, and thus attracts smaller crowds even during peak seasons.

Tiger Hill Garden | By AsiaTravel Travelers, Chuck & Kathy 

Pingjiang Road

If you find yourself a little peckish, Pingjiang Road is a wonderful location to have lunch in while experiencing genuine Suzhou. It’s said to be less touristy than Shantang Street and is lined on both sides with buildings that encapsulate Suzhou’s traditional architecture. It’s relaxed, stylish, and feels more genuine than most places you’re liable to stumble upon.

 

Pingjiang Road Canal | Joan Compderrós-i-Canas via Flickr

Suzhou Silk Factory

Suzhou has been the centre of China’s silk trade for hundreds of years. From cultivation to its various uses, the secret of this precious material was guarded viciously for centuries until the Byzantines managed to smuggle silkworm larva out of the country, thus breaking China’s monopoly on the ultra-soft fabric. If you’re interested in a mix of business and history, then consider touring the silk factory to see how the modern process goes from worm to loom.

 

Suzhou Silk in Progress | By AsiaTravel Travelers, Chuck & Kathy 

Master of the Nets Garden

We highly recommend that you have a look at the Master of the Nets Garden. While it’s not as big as others in the area – at barely more than half a hectare, it’s actually the smallest – it’s considered one of Suzhou’s most exquisite gardens. The garden uses space ingeniously to create the illusion of an area that is much greater than its actual size, creatively directing the eye with its various adornments. While exploring the garden, our AsiaTravel guide will explain how feng shui has been implemented in this UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site and the philosophical and aesthetic principles underlying the arrangement of plants, rocks and water to form a Chinese garden.

 

Master of Nets Garden | Rita Heine via Flickr

To complete your Suzhou trip, dine at a traditional Suzhou restaurant – the city boasts a number of excellent restaurants that are worth a try. Many local favorites are located at Taijian Nong (Taijian Lane) around the Guanqian Jie shopping street, including the famous Song He Lou (Pine and Crane Restaurant) that is a little more than 200 years old. Savor traditional Suzhou specialties such as Songshu Guiyu (squirrel-shaped Mandarin fish), Gusu Luya (Gusu marinated duck) and Luobosi Su Bing (pan-fried turnip cake). After dinner, end your day with a stroll in modern Suzhou along Guanqian Jie.

 

Night time Canals | Ross Bowling via Flickr

Indulge in a tour through Suzhou’s resplendent atmosphere on the Hangzhou and Suzhou: Heaven on Earth tour. A relaxing getaway from bustling Shanghai, Suzhou impresses clients with its stunning architecture, tranquil canals, and gardens designed by fengshui masters.  

Harbin’s International Ice Festival draws in tourists from around the world, but this mystical city is worth more than just a day trip. If you stay just a little while longer, you’ll be privy to a whole host of wonderful experiences to complement your frosty voyage to the North.

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The capital of China’s northernmost province, Harbin was originally named to mean ‘a place for drying fishing nets’. The city grew from a small rural settlement on the Songhua River and today is heralded as the ‘City of Ice’, home to the world’s largest Ice and Snow festival.

But there is more to Harbin than record-breaking structures made of ice. The city’s parks, winter sports and Russian architecture make it a city where both children and adults can take part in the whimsy and magic of a storybook land.

Harbin International Ice Festival

Ricewind42 via Flickr

Let’s get the big one out of the way first. From the 5th of January each year until well into February, people from around the world flock to Harbin to witness the famous International Ice Festival. Palaces, sculptures, staircases, lanterns… a whole world of ice that will simply melt away when the weather starts to thaw.

During the festival you’ll be able to see ice sculptures throughout the city, but the two main exhibition areas are the ironically titled Sun Island, and the more appropriately named Ice and Snow World.

Lantern Festival at Zhaolin Park

 

As the day turns into night, ice lanterns begin to shine brightly at Zhaolin Park. They combine the beauty of light and sound as they sway in the winter air and provide the perfect backdrop for an evening stroll. The brilliantly carved ice and snow artworks dotted throughout the park are the work of master craftsmen and shouldn’t be missed on any tour of Harbin.

Harbin City Architecture

Fredrik Rubensson via flickr

After the Russian Revolution in 1917, many supporters of the tsar fled across the Chinese border and into Harbin. 100 years later and this influence is still very apparent. St. Sophia Cathedral, a stunning Russian orthodox church has come to symbolize the city and the famous Zhongyang Dajie or ‘Central Avenue’ contains several beautiful examples of Baroque and Byzantine architecture.

Harbin’s immaculately restored Jewish Synagogue, a remnant of the time when Harbin was once home to a Jewish population of up to 20,000, is also well worth a visit.

If you’re interested in China’s unexpected Jewish history, customize your own Jewish Tour of China.

Sun Island

Jared Burns via Flickr

Adjacent to the Ice Festival, Sun Island is a great place to take kids to enjoy winter sports such as ice skating. While in summer the landscape is a beautiful waterfall flowing into a pool, during winter the frozen waterfall is sculpted into beautiful shapes and designs. Wander around the grounds and take in the natural beauty.

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Grab your winter coat and bundle up for a trip through China’s frosty climes. There’s plenty of things to do in Harbin while you make the most of the icy landscapes. Journey with us on our Harbin: Winter Wonderland tour.

A buzzing hub of energy, industry and innovation, Shanghai can be both exhilarating and exhausting, which is why it pays to stay in one of the city’s justifiably famous luxury hotels.
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Famous for its roaring ‘20s jazz history, Shanghai today stands as one of the world’s most significant financial centers. As Shanghai grows in stature, more and more global brands are leaving their mark on the city, and finding new ways to deliver luxurious accommodation to their guests.

The area known as the Bund is the crème de la crème of Shanghai. Similar to staying on Park Avenue in New York City, the Bund is the embodiment of the city’s high society. To put it plainly, the Bund is where you want to be to make the most of your trip to Shanghai.

To help make your choice easier, here are a few of the best hotels on The Bund:

1. The Peninsula Hotel, Shanghai

Style and glamour are the watchwords of the Peninsula Hotel’s Shanghai branch. The historic Peninsula hotel was the first new building to be built on the Bund in over seventy years. There hasn’t been new construction since 1932 when the Bank of China was completed.The beautiful colonial style building at the Bund was purposely built from the ground up to house the hotel. Guests will enjoy sweeping views of the iconic Pudong skyline and the Bund from both the rooms and the opulent rooftop bar. Since opening in 2009, The Peninsula Shanghai has gone from award to award, and was voted the Best City Hotel in Asia by readers of Travel + Leisure magazine in 2015.

• 2. Waldorf Astoria on the Bund

The Waldorf Astoria hotels have been named the greatest of them all by Conrad Hilton, a man who knows his hotels. The Waldorf Astoria on the Bund is actually the first purpose-build Waldorf Astoria Hotel outside of the United States, proving the allure of the Bund. A 12 minute walk from Shanghai’s famous Yu Garden, the Waldorf Astoria in Shanghai embraces the hard won international reputation of the brand for delivering unapologetically grand and luxurious accommodation. Offering stunning views of the Pudong Skyline and a host of impeccable facilities, the Waldorf Astoria on the Bund lives up to its stated goal of combining the history and culture of the celebrated Shanghai Bund with a taste for 21st century sophistication.

 3. Fairmont Peace Hotel

In contrast to the Asia-wide or international brands above, the Fairmont Peace Hotel stands out as an historically Shanghai based institution. Situated on the Bund with breathtaking views and easy access to the city centre, the Fairmont Peace Hotel owes its status as one of the best hotels in Shanghai not only to its location and quality, but also to its history.

At its beginning it was one of the first large skyscrapers built in the Eastern Hemisphere. After the Communist party came to power in 1949, the building was used by the Municipal Finance Committee. Much later, during the Cultural Revolution the hotel was used by the notorious Gang of Four as their headquarters.

The Old Jazz Band of the Hotel was also used as the basis for a movie, “As Time Goes By” a film by Uli Gaulke. After 3 years of renovations between 2007 and 2010, the modern Fairmont Peace Hotel was born.

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Wanting to book your luxury retreat to Shanghai? Join our Chinese Treasures tour or Shanghai Highlife tour to get a firsthand taste of The Peninsula Hotel.

 

Step into the ghastly past of the world’s oldest civilization and get acquainted with places that will chill you to the bone. These are the most haunted places in China.

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With over 5,000 years of history, China’s bound to have a few ghosts waiting in the nooks and crannies. From the wiles of eunuchs in Beijing to deserted mansions in Shanghai, China’s chock full of possible encounters of the spooky kind. Steel your nerves and prepare yourself to be haunted by legends and tales of a paranormal kind.

Wilson Loo Kok Wee via Flickr

Fengdu Ghost City, Chongqing

Nestled on the banks of the Yangtze River, Fengdu Ghost City’s spooky past dates back over 2,000 years. According to legend, 2 Eastern Han Dynasty imperials officials used Taoist practices to become immortal on nearby Ming mountain. Their names combined to mean “King of Hell” and they dragged all local villages into the underworld.

Today, the area is surrounded by temples and shrines dedicated to the underworld. Visitors can journey through the dark side of traditional Chinese culture with the paintings and sculptures lining the temple walls – each depicting scenes of villagers being tortured for their sins.

If you’re feeling brave, float down the Yangtze River and visit these ancient stone villages on our China Living Heritage Tour.

The Forbidden City, Beijing

The Forbidden City is a staple of any tour to China, but did you know that the Imperial Palace is also haunted but its own array of poltergeists and ghosts?

Built over 600 years ago during the Ming and Qing dynasties, the imperial palace saw more than its fair share of executions. Betrayal and disobedience were common and anyone who went against the emperor’s rule was easily removed.

And it wasn’t just the emperor creating Halloween-worthy tales. Jealous concubines, spited servants and envious guards would often poison one another in the most devious of ways and eunuchs went to any length to further their plot for power.

When the palace was opened to the public in the late 1940’s, staff began to notice strange phenomena within the imposing red gates. A woman dressed in white has often been heard sobbing as she strolls around the grounds and as recently as 1995 guards have reported seeing a woman dressed all in black. The story is always the same – the woman turns to speak but has no face. Only black hair shrouds her pale visage.

Not too scared to walk through the same grounds as these ghosts? Consider our Beijing Imperial Day Tour.

Zoe via Flickr

Qiu Mansion, Shanghai

The Qiu brothers began their story as migrant workers in Shanghai. The pair made their fortunes selling paint after World War I and built identical mansions next to one another in the heart of the city. The ornate mansion grounds became home to the brother’s collection of exotic pets: Burmese tigers, peacocks, and even crocodiles roamed the gardens.

At the height of their fame and notoriety, the Qiu brothers mysteriously disappeared. Their mansions fell into disrepair and their gardens became a tangle of barren branches.

Workers at the Four Seasons Hotel, just across the street from Qiu Mansion, have reported hearing and seeing strange animals roaming around the abandoned site. A number of the hotel’s night guards have even received hospital treatment for mysterious “animal bites” – no one knows how the injuries occurred.

Ready to encounter some paranormal pets, customize our Shanghai Highlife tour.

High Street, Hong Kong

With eerie yellow lights casting shadows on dark, empty verandas, the Sai Ying Pun Community Complex is one of the most chilling locales on High Street, Hong Kong and has a frightening history to match.

Originally built in 1892 to house European nurses Sai Ying Pun was, accordingly to urban legend, a common site of execution during WWII. After the war, the complex was turned into an insane asylum. The asylum was abandoned after 2 fires in 1961.

In the dead of the night, it has been said that headless poltergeists and devilish figures roam the corridors of Sai Ying Pun Community Complex – The spirits of murdered victims and unsettled patients calling for revenge.

If these tales don’t spook you out, join us on our Hong Kong: Pearl of the Orient tour.

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For those with an interest in the paranormal, China has a closet chock-full of ghosts. Customize one of our city tours to experience the other-worldly haunts of these restless ghosts and you may even go home with your own spooky tales to tell.