DISCOVER FIVE-STAR JOURNEYS ACROSS CHINA'S IMPERIAL CITIES AND KARST LANDSCAPES
From private tours of the Forbidden City to riverside Yangshuo retreats and Shanghai's glittering skyline, China layers five-star comfort with centuries of history.
Luxury in China is rarely about extravagance for its own sake, it is expert access to a country paired with five-star comfort at every turn. In Beijing, private guides can walk you through the Forbidden City's 980 buildings before the crowds arrive, or take you to a quieter section of the Great Wall away from the coach parties, before returning to a restored courtyard hotel for the evening.
Further south, Yangshuo offers an entirely different register of luxury: riverside retreats set among the karst limestone peaks that line the Li River, where mornings might mean tai chi at sunrise or a private cruise past scenery that has inspired Chinese painters for centuries.
Shanghai closes the loop with something altogether more contemporary – art deco mansions along the Bund, skyline views from a rooftop bar, and some of the most accomplished fine dining in the country, a world away from the imperial pace of Beijing.
For those who want to extend further, a few days in Hong Kong can make an elegant final stop, with harbourfront hotels and a world-renowned dining scene of its own.
Essence of China
- Beijing
- Xi’an
- Longsheng Rice Terraces
- Yangshuo
- Shanghai
From Beijing’s palaces to Shanghai’s skyline and timeless landscapes
Luxury China Holiday Ideas
Our China specialist, Sophie, says:
"What clients love most about a luxury China trip is how much it changes their idea of the country. It's not just the five-star hotels – it's a private guide unlocking a courtyard in the Forbidden City most visitors never see, or waking up to karst peaks outside your window in Yangshuo. I often suggest finishing in Shanghai, where the pace and the skyline are a complete contrast to Beijing, and for clients with time to spare, a few extra days in Hong Kong rounds things off beautifully. China rewards a bit of insider knowledge, and that's exactly what we're here for."
Luxury China Stays
Luxury China FAQs
Planning a luxury China trip? Our experts share advice on everything from destinations, to trip additions and ideas.
What makes a luxury China holiday different from a standard trip?
It comes down to access and comfort rather than just five-star labels – private guides, quieter entry times at major sites like the Forbidden City and the Great Wall, and properties chosen for character as much as facilities. We tailor the pace so each day feels considered rather than rushed.
What level of accommodation is included on a luxury China holiday?
We work with restored courtyard hotels, five-star international brands and boutique riverside lodges, all chosen for character and location as much as facilities. Every property is one that our specialists would happily stay in themselves.
What is the best time of year for a luxury China holiday?
Spring (April–May) and autumn (September–October) bring the most comfortable weather and clearer visibility for sightseeing, and avoid the summer heat and the crowds of China's national holiday periods.
How long should a luxury China trip be?
Most itineraries run 10–14 days, enough to combine two or three destinations at an unhurried pace. Shorter, city-focused trips of 6–7 days work well as an add-on to a wider Asia itinerary.
Can our itinerary be built entirely to our own preferences?
Yes – every route, hotel and guide is chosen around what you want from the trip, whether that's a private cultural focus, a slower pace with more downtime, or a particular combination of cities and landscapes.
When to go to China
Find out the best time to visit China with our month by month guide.
- Best
- Good
- Mixed
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
January
Cold but generally dry. Ideal for Harbin's Ice Festival and winter scenery in northern China.
February
Chinese New Year brings incredible celebrations alongside colder weather and busy transport networks.
March
Spring arrives with mild temperatures and blossom across many of China's cultural highlights
April
Warm, dry weather makes April one of the best months to explore most regions of China.
May
Excellent conditions nationwide before the peak summer heat and rainfall begin.
June
Warmer weather arrives, with mountain regions offering comfortable conditions for exploring.
July
Hot and humid in many areas, but perfect for Tibet and higher-altitude destinations.
August
Warm and often wet, although western China and Yunnan remain rewarding choices.
September
Pleasant temperatures and clear skies make September one of the finest months to visit.
October
Autumn colours and crisp weather create superb touring conditions after the National Day holiday.
November
Dry, cool weather and fewer crowds make November excellent for sightseeing.
December
Cold in the north but ideal for winter landscapes, festive experiences and quieter attractions.
Speak to a China honeymoon expert today
and start planning your tailor-made vacation
Sophie
China Expert