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China by Rail, Japan by Sea

  • Duration
    28 days
  • Tour Type
    Cruise & Tour
  • Tour Style
    Classic
  • Price From
    £8,990pp
All aboard this exciting adventure by rail and ship! Travel across China by high-speed train, taking in the must-see sights as you go before cruising from Hong Kong to Japan via Hong Kong. Our Cruise & Tour journeys bring together all the joy of a cruise onboard the Norwegian Jade with the exciting exploration of a Wendy Wu Tours land itinerary. On this holiday you'll stand on the Great Wall, come face to face with the Terracotta Army and see the adorable giant pandas up close before setting sail to Taiwan and then Japan, to see Mount Fuji, explore Kyoto and Tokyo and much more.
  • Included Meals
    Breakfasts: 26 , Lunches: 25 , Dinners: 26
  • Flights
    International flights and current taxes
  • Visa Included
    Visa fees for UK passport holders
  • Cruise
    Norwegian Ocean Cruise
  • Physical Rating 1Learn More
    X A reasonable level of fitness is required and you should expect to be on your feet for much of the day. You’ll be getting on and off coaches, trains or boats and walking around the sights, often including steps, plus occasional longer walks. Download the detailed tour dossier for details of your chosen tour. Learn More
    Walking, some steps and time on your feet
Travel Expert

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For advice on where to go, what to do and how to choose your perfect tour, talk to our Travel Experts.

Call 0808 274 8594

Tour Experiences

About Norwegian Jade

For a more intimate, relaxed atmosphere, set sail aboard Norwegian Jade. Toss your timetable to the breeze on a Caribbean cruise and bask on pristine beaches whilst enjoying island cocktails. Modern décor, refurbished staterooms and new venues await you on board. Soak in fantastic vistas from the hot tubs, poolside or in the luxurious Spa Thermal Suite. Stretch your legs on the outdoor jogging track and roll into memorable days at sea in the casino. Then take your tastebuds on a gastronomic journey with a wide range of delicious complimentary and speciality restaurants, from Brazilian at Moderno Churrascaria to Le Bistro's French dishes and Italian cuisine at La Cucina and so much more. Nighttime promises good times at sea with vibrant live entertainment and a diverse selection of unique bars and lounges to toast your unforgettable cruise holiday.

  • Launched
    2006
  • Occupancy
    2352
  • Tonnage
    93558
  • Length
    294ft
  • Total Crew
    1037

Tour Itinerary

This adventure is ideal for travellers who want to see the very best bits of some incredibly diverse destinations. We have designed the tour to showcase the key highlights and cities of China, Japan and Taiwan.

  • Days 1-2
    Arrive in Beijing
    Days 1-2: Arrive in Beijing

    Fly overnight to Beijing, China's historical capital. On arrival at the airport, you will be met and transferred to your hotel. Depending on your time of arrival the rest of the day is yours to start soaking up the local culture.

    • Dinner
  • Day 3
    Explore Beijing
    Day 3: Explore Beijing

    Walk through Beijing's symbolic heart, Tiananmen Square and into the sprawling magnificence of the Forbidden City, a complex full of imperial riches. Then, find harmony in the symmetry of the Temple of Heaven. This evening, dine on local delicacy, Peking Duck.

    • Breakfast
    • Lunch
    • Dinner
  • Day 4
    The Great Wall
    Day 4: The Great Wall

    Travel out of the city to the magnificent Great Wall of China, learning a little about its long history before taking a short walk to fully appreciate this world-famous structure. Stop off at a jade factory before visiting the Sacred Way and Ming Tombs. This evening, enjoy a thrilling acrobatic show.

    • Breakfast
    • Lunch
    • Dinner
  • Day 5
    Travel to Pingyao
    Day 5: Travel to Pingyao

    Transfer to the train station and board a bullet train to Pingyao. A living museum and home to China's best preserved ancient city walls, walk the characterful streets to see the Qing Dynasty Yamen building and the Rishengchang Financial House Museum.

    • Breakfast
    • Lunch
    • Dinner
  • Day 6
    Travel to Xian
    Day 6: Travel to Xian

    This morning is at leisure (additional option: hands-on noodle making demonstration) before travelling to Xian by bullet train.

    • Breakfast
    • Lunch
    • Dinner
  • Day 7
    Explore Xian
    Day 7: Explore Xian

    This morning, come face to face with the Terracotta Warriors, an army created to protect China's first emperor, Qin Shi Huang, in the afterlife. The, watch skilled artisans making smaller warriors using the same methods as their ancient counterparts. Later, stroll Xian's beautifully preserved 14th-century city walls, before a dumpling demonstration, a delicious dumpling banquet and a Tang Dynasty show.

    • Breakfast
    • Lunch
    • Dinner
  • Day 8
    Travel to Chengdu
    Day 8: Travel to Chengdu

    After breakfast, walk through the atmospheric alleyways of the Muslim Quarter, lined with delicious street food stalls. Then, transfer to the station and board a bullet train to Chengdu. This evening, dine on a delicious Sichuan hot pot, a local speciality, and watch a fascinating face changing show.

    • Breakfast
    • Lunch
    • Dinner
  • Day 9
    Explore Chengdu
    Day 9: Explore Chengdu

    This morning is dedicated to Chengdu's most famous resident, the lovable giant panda. Visit the Dujiangyan Panda Research Base to learn all about them and see them relaxing, play and chomping on bamboo (additional option: volunteer at the Panda Base). Return to Chengdu where you'll take a stroll around People's Park and enjoy a cup of Chinese tea in a traditional teahouse.

    • Breakfast
    • Lunch
    • Dinner
  • Day 10
    Train to Guilin
    Day 10: Train to Guilin

    Board a bullet train to the city of Guilin, beautifully set on the Li River. Upon arrival, the rest of the day is at leisure to start soaking up the scenery.

    • Breakfast
    • Lunch
    • Dinner
  • Day 11
    Li River Cruise
    Day 11: Li River Cruise

    Float gently through the dramatic karst scenery of the Li River to reach the charming town of Yangshuo. Around every river bend is a view to take your breath away, as the jagged peaks loom over rural scenes of lush paddy fields and grazing buffalos. Next, explore Yangshuo, wandering the cobbled streets and browsing the local market. This evening, enjoy the Impression of Liu Sanjie show.

    • Breakfast
    • Lunch
    • Dinner
  • Day 12
    Around Yangshuo
    Day 12: Around Yangshuo

    Spend the morning exploring the spectacular countryside around Yangshuo. Return to Guilin via the impressive Reed Flute Caves.

    • Breakfast
    • Lunch
    • Dinner
  • Day 13
    Train to Hong Kong
    Day 13: Train to Hong Kong

    All aboard the bullet train to Hong Kong! On arrival, the rest of the day is at leisure to start exploring this incredible city.

    • Breakfast
    • Lunch
    • Dinner
  • Day 14
    Explore Hong Kong
    Day 14: Explore Hong Kong

    Spend the day exploring under the iconic skyline of Hong Kong. Ride the tram up Victoria Peak for breathtaking views and a fascinating walking tour. Return to Central and ride the Central Escalator to Tai Kwan, the city's new artistic hub. Continue to Hollywood Road and Man Mo Temple. Enjoy a dim sum making demonstration, before eating dim sum for lunch, then head for the West Kowloon Cultural District. Later, follow The Avenue of Stars to admire Victoria Harbour at night.

    • Breakfast
    • Lunch
    • Dinner
  • Day 15
    Board the Norwegian Jade
    Day 15: Board the Norwegian Jade

    After breakfast you will be transferred to Hong Kong's cruise terminal to board your cruise. The rest of the day is free to explore the ship's facilities and settle in. Throughout your cruise, when your ship comes into port, there will a range of excursions available to help you explore each destination. These excursions are at your own expense and are bookable on your cruise reservation.

    • Breakfast
    • Lunch
    • Dinner
  • Day 16
    Cruise – Explore Kaohsiung
    Day 16: Cruise – Explore Kaohsiung

    Welcome to Taiwan! Dock in the port of Kaohsiung, Taiwan's second largest city and largest port. Although modern at first glance, there is plenty of culture to explore here, in fact, it is considered Taiwan's cultural hotspot, and has plenty of excellent museums, waterside parks and cafes to discover.

    • Breakfast
    • Lunch
    • Dinner
  • Day 17
    Cruise – Explore Taipei
    Day 17: Cruise – Explore Taipei

    Pause at the port of Keelung which gives easy access to Taiwan's capital, Taipei. A modern city full of a timeless culture that blends Chinese, Japanese, Southeast Asian and Western influences, spend the day soaring up to the heights of Taipei 101 and visiting must-sees like the Mengjia Longshang Temple and Chiang Kai-Shek Memorial Hall.

    • Breakfast
    • Lunch
    • Dinner
  • Day 18
    Cruise – Explore Miyakojima
    Day 18: Cruise – Explore Miyakojima

    Hello Japan! Dock at Miyakojima, one of Japan's tropical Okinawa islands. You could relax on one of the white sand beaches, discover some of Japan's best diving and snorkelling spots or learn more about the region's unique cultural traditions.

    • Breakfast
    • Lunch
    • Dinner
  • Day 19
    Cruise – At Sea
    Day 19: Cruise – At Sea

    Spend these days at sea making the most of the Norwegian Jade's excellent range of facilities and activities. Try the different restaurants, watch live performances featuring a talented cast of performers and musicians or browse the shopping boutiques for souvenirs.

    • Breakfast
    • Lunch
    • Dinner
  • Day 20
    Cruise – Explore Nagasaki
    Day 20: Cruise – Explore Nagasaki

    Nagasaki is best known for the events of the 9th of August 1945 but there is so much more to it. Backed by rolling hills and forested islands, with unspoilt beaches, European-style architecture, and ancient roots, it is a delight to explore.

    • Breakfast
    • Lunch
    • Dinner
  • Day 21
    Cruise – Explore Kagoshima
    Day 21: Cruise – Explore Kagoshima

    Today's port of call is the sunny city of Kagoshima, nestled at the foot of Sakurajima Volcano. While the city itself has historic castles and traditional gardens to explore, there are also volcanic hot springs to soak in and delicious local food to try.

    • Breakfast
    • Lunch
    • Dinner
  • Day 22
    Cruise – Explore Hiroshima
    Day 22: Cruise – Explore Hiroshima

    Arrive at Hiroshima. The first city in the world to feel the power of the atomic bomb in 1945, Hiroshima has emerged for the ashes as a cosmopolitan and peaceful place. Consider visiting the tranquil Peace Park to learn about and reflect on the past.

    • Breakfast
    • Lunch
    • Dinner
  • Day 23
    Cruise – Explore Kochi
    Day 23: Cruise – Explore Kochi

    Port at Kochi. A surfer hang out with a UNESCO Global Geopark coastline, plentiful great outdoors and a magnificent 400 year old castle, Kochi is a wonderful place to while away a day.

    • Breakfast
    • Lunch
    • Dinner
  • Day 24
    Cruise – Explore Kyoto
    Day 24: Cruise – Explore Kyoto

    Arrive in Osaka, the closest port to the timeless city of Kyoto, Japan's capital for over 1,000 years and a treasure trove of history and culture. Spend the day exploring among ancient architecture, soaking up a rich, age-old culture or sampling some of the city's culinary delights.

    • Breakfast
    • Lunch
    • Dinner
  • Day 25
    Cruise – Mount Fuji
    Day 25: Cruise – Mount Fuji

    Port at Shimizu, a city of medieval castle ruins, ancient pine groves and traditional gardens. Here, you are ideally located for viewing Mount Fuji or exploring the series of fascinating cultural sights around its base.

    • Breakfast
    • Lunch
    • Dinner
  • Day 26
    Arrive in Tokyo
    Day 26: Arrive in Tokyo

    Bid farewell to the Norwegian Jade. Met by a guide, you will be transferred to your hotel in Tokyo where the rest of the day is at leisure.

    • Breakfast
    • Lunch
    • Dinner
  • Day 27
    Discover Tokyo
    Day 27: Discover Tokyo

    Embark on a full day exploration of Tokyo, start at vibrant Sensoji, the city's oldest temple before taking a stroll down Nakamise Shopping Street to browse the souvenirs and locals snack foods. Then, ascend the Tokyo Skytree for panoramic views over the city. Enjoy a sushi making masterclass and dine on your creations for lunch. Later, wander through the Imperial Palace Gardens then explore Meiji Jingu Shrine, a Shinto shrine dedicated to Emperor Meiji, then taste local treats at Takeshita Street and stop for a photo at Shibuya Crossing.

    • Breakfast
    • Lunch
    • Dinner
  • Day 28
    Fly Tokyo to UK
    Day 28: Fly Tokyo to UK

    Fly to the UK, arriving home the same or the following day.

    • Breakfast
City Average Temperate Monthly Rainfall
  • Beijing
  • 1°c
  • 1mm
  • Chengdu
  • 6°c
  • 8mm
  • Guilin
  • 8°c
  • 63mm
  • Hong Kong
  • 17°c
  • 25mm
  • Pingyao
  • -4°c
  • 3mm
  • Tokyo
  • 5°c
  • 65mm
  • Xian
  • 0°c
  • 7mm
  • Yangshuo
  • 10°c
  • 53mm
City Average Temperate Monthly Rainfall
  • Beijing
  • 0°c
  • 5mm
  • Chengdu
  • 8°c
  • 12mm
  • Guilin
  • 10°c
  • 97mm
  • Hong Kong
  • 17°c
  • 54mm
  • Pingyao
  • -2°c
  • 6mm
  • Tokyo
  • 6°c
  • 58mm
  • Xian
  • 4°c
  • 10mm
  • Yangshuo
  • 10°c
  • 81mm
City Average Temperate Monthly Rainfall
  • Beijing
  • 6°c
  • 8mm
  • Chengdu
  • 12°c
  • 20mm
  • Guilin
  • 13°c
  • 137mm
  • Hong Kong
  • 19°c
  • 82mm
  • Pingyao
  • 4°c
  • 14mm
  • Tokyo
  • 9°c
  • 77mm
  • Xian
  • 9°c
  • 29mm
  • Yangshuo
  • 14°c
  • 114mm
City Average Temperate Monthly Rainfall
  • Beijing
  • 14°c
  • 21mm
  • Chengdu
  • 17°c
  • 44mm
  • Guilin
  • 19°c
  • 247mm
  • Hong Kong
  • 23°c
  • 175mm
  • Pingyao
  • 12°c
  • 25mm
  • Tokyo
  • 14°c
  • 118mm
  • Xian
  • 15°c
  • 43mm
  • Yangshuo
  • 20°c
  • 224mm
City Average Temperate Monthly Rainfall
  • Beijing
  • 20°c
  • 34mm
  • Chengdu
  • 22°c
  • 78mm
  • Guilin
  • 24°c
  • 352mm
  • Hong Kong
  • 26°c
  • 305mm
  • Pingyao
  • 18°c
  • 34mm
  • Tokyo
  • 18°c
  • 145mm
  • Xian
  • 20°c
  • 60mm
  • Yangshuo
  • 24°c
  • 312mm
City Average Temperate Monthly Rainfall
  • Beijing
  • 24°c
  • 78mm
  • Chengdu
  • 24°c
  • 107mm
  • Guilin
  • 27°c
  • 347mm
  • Hong Kong
  • 28°c
  • 456mm
  • Pingyao
  • 22°c
  • 58mm
  • Tokyo
  • 22°c
  • 135mm
  • Xian
  • 25°c
  • 54mm
  • Yangshuo
  • 26°c
  • 293mm
City Average Temperate Monthly Rainfall
  • Beijing
  • 26°c
  • 185mm
  • Chengdu
  • 26°c
  • 224mm
  • Guilin
  • 29°c
  • 231mm
  • Hong Kong
  • 29°c
  • 376mm
  • Pingyao
  • 24°c
  • 129mm
  • Tokyo
  • 26°c
  • 81mm
  • Xian
  • 27°c
  • 99mm
  • Yangshuo
  • 28°c
  • 200mm
City Average Temperate Monthly Rainfall
  • Beijing
  • 25°c
  • 160mm
  • Chengdu
  • 26°c
  • 201mm
  • Guilin
  • 29°c
  • 173mm
  • Hong Kong
  • 29°c
  • 432mm
  • Pingyao
  • 22°c
  • 108mm
  • Tokyo
  • 27°c
  • 113mm
  • Xian
  • 26°c
  • 71mm
  • Yangshuo
  • 28°c
  • 186mm
City Average Temperate Monthly Rainfall
  • Beijing
  • 20°c
  • 46mm
  • Chengdu
  • 22°c
  • 119mm
  • Guilin
  • 26°c
  • 82mm
  • Hong Kong
  • 28°c
  • 328mm
  • Pingyao
  • 17°c
  • 72mm
  • Tokyo
  • 23°c
  • 131mm
  • Xian
  • 21°c
  • 92mm
  • Yangshuo
  • 26°c
  • 83mm
City Average Temperate Monthly Rainfall
  • Beijing
  • 14°c
  • 22mm
  • Chengdu
  • 18°c
  • 35mm
  • Guilin
  • 21°c
  • 66mm
  • Hong Kong
  • 26°c
  • 101mm
  • Pingyao
  • 12°c
  • 34mm
  • Tokyo
  • 18°c
  • 132mm
  • Xian
  • 15°c
  • 60mm
  • Yangshuo
  • 22°c
  • 85mm
City Average Temperate Monthly Rainfall
  • Beijing
  • 5°c
  • 7mm
  • Chengdu
  • 13°c
  • 16mm
  • Guilin
  • 16°c
  • 64mm
  • Hong Kong
  • 22°c
  • 38mm
  • Pingyao
  • 4°c
  • 14mm
  • Tokyo
  • 12°c
  • 128mm
  • Xian
  • 8°c
  • 24mm
  • Yangshuo
  • 16°c
  • 69mm
City Average Temperate Monthly Rainfall
  • Beijing
  • -1°c
  • 3mm
  • Chengdu
  • 8°c
  • 5mm
  • Guilin
  • 11°c
  • 43mm
  • Hong Kong
  • 18°c
  • 27mm
  • Pingyao
  • -3°c
  • 4mm
  • Tokyo
  • 8°c
  • 109mm
  • Xian
  • 2°c
  • 6mm
  • Yangshuo
  • 12°c
  • 44mm
+ -
China by Rail, Japan by Sea map

Places Visited: UK - Beijing (3N) - Pingyao (1N) - Xian (2N) - Chengdu (2N) - Guilin (1N) - Yangshuo (1N) - Guilin (1N) - Hong Kong (2N) - NCL cruise (11N) - Tokyo (2N)

Download Detailed Itinerary

Tour Dates & Prices

All of our tour departures include international flights and taxes in the price. If your tour departs in less than 30 days, please call our travel experts to book.

If you can find a tour with the same inclusions cheaper, we will match it AND give you a reward. We will also match the price of any Wendy Wu Tour quoted elsewhere and we guarantee the price of your tour will never rise after you've paid.

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Depart UK
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Departures for Solo travellers only are available for this tour on selected dates.
In addition to being for solos only these departures feature smaller group sizes, free airport lounge access and complimentary cocktails on arrival.

Depart UK
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There are no dedicated Solo departures for this year. You can enjoy any of our tours with no Single Supplement on our Happy to Share option or explore the solo departures in other years.

Depart UK
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Cruise & Tour includes

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