Made in China – BYND Edition

Day 1 - ZAGREB – BEIJING

The journey begins with departure from Zagreb with layover. After meeting the group and completing travel formalities, we board our overnight flight to China. The excitement slowly builds as we leave Europe behind and head toward one of the most fascinating cultures in the world. Meals and overnight on the plane.

Day 2 - BEIJING - Imperial China

We arrive in Beijing early in the morning, as the immense capital slowly awakens. After completing customs formalities we transfer to the hotel, leave our luggage and take a moment to refresh after the long journey. Delicious breakfast at the hotel.

Our first exploration takes us straight into the historic heart of China. Tiananmen Square reveals the monumental scale of Beijing and echoes with stories of modern Chinese history. From here we step into the legendary Forbidden City — the immense imperial palace where Chinese emperors ruled for almost five centuries. Endless courtyards, crimson walls and shimmering golden roofs unfold before us, revealing the grandeur and symbolism of imperial China. Our walk continues to nearby Jingshan Park, where a short climb to the hilltop pavilion rewards us with one of Beijing’s most iconic views — the Forbidden City spreading out below us and the endless sea of rooftops of old Beijing beyond.

Later we discover one of the most fascinating pillars of Chinese culture – traditional Chinese medicine. During an introduction to its philosophy, we explore the delicate balance of yin and yang, the flow of qi energy through the body and the centuries-old knowledge of herbal remedies that continues to shape Chinese healthcare today. In the evening a welcome dinner in a local restaurant introduces us to the rich flavours of Chinese cuisine. Overnight in Beijing.

Day 3 - BEIJING – Hutongs, calligraphy and city rhythm

Breakfast. Today we experience Beijing beyond its grand imperial monuments and discover the rhythm of everyday life in the capital. Early risers may begin the morning with a Tai Chi session in a city park before visiting the elegant Temple of Heaven — one of the most refined imperial complexes in China, where emperors once prayed for good harvests. Those who prefer a slower start can enjoy a relaxed free morning.

In the afternoon we explore the historic hutong neighbourhoods — narrow alleys and traditional courtyard houses that preserve the spirit of old Beijing. On foot and by rickshaw we move through lively lanes filled with small shops, street food stalls and glimpses of daily life. A short calligraphy workshop introduces us to the elegant art of Chinese writing, where each brush stroke carries meaning, balance and centuries of tradition.

As evening falls, we head to the atmospheric Houhai Lake area, where lantern lights shimmer on the water and cafés and bars create a lively setting for our first relaxed evening out in Beijing. Overnight.

Day 4 - BEIJING – The Great Wall experience

Breakfast and early departure toward the Mutianyu section of the Great Wall. Winding through forested mountains, this part of the wall offers one of the most scenic experiences of the monument. A cable car takes us up to the ancient stone fortification where we walk along the wall itself, following the same ridges that once guarded the empire. The views stretch endlessly across green mountains and watchtowers disappearing into the distance. For those looking for a little extra fun, the descent by toboggan is an unforgettable way down.

Back in Beijing we step into a traditional hutong courtyard home where we join a local family for a dumpling-making experience. Learning how to fold and prepare these iconic Chinese dishes becomes both a cultural exchange and a social highlight of the day.

The evening finishes with one of Beijing’s culinary classics – Peking duck served in traditional style. Overnight in Beijing

Day 5 - BEIJING – CHENGDU – High-speed China

Breakfast box and early transfer to the railway station. Today we experience one of the most impressive elements of modern China – the high-speed train network. Travelling at remarkable speed, the journey from Beijing to Chengdu reveals the vast scale of the country while landscapes rush past outside the window. Time on the train passes quickly as we watch the landscape gradually change outside the window. The journey from Beijing to Chengdu covers many kilometres and crosses a variety of terrains, offering a moving panorama of northern and central China. Music, conversations, games and quiet moments of reflection accompany the journey, while the steady rhythm of the train gives us time to relax and recharge for the adventures that await us ahead.

Arrival in Chengdu in the afternoon. After hotel check-in we take some time to relax or begin our exploration. In the evening those who wish can join an easy walk through the lively Jiuyanqiao riverside district — an area known for its vibrant nightlife, cafés and relaxed atmosphere. Overnight in Chengdu.

Day 6 - CHENGDU – Pandas and tea culture

Breakfast. The morning is dedicated to one of China’s most beloved national symbols. At the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding we observe giant pandas during their most active hours, watching them eat, play and lazily climb through lush bamboo gardens. Lunch introduces us to the bold and aromatic flavours of Sichuan cuisine, famous for its rich spices and distinctive character.

In the afternoon the pace slows down in true Chengdu style. In a local park we experience the city’s legendary tea culture — a tradition that is as much about social life as it is about the drink itself. Locals gather here for games, conversations and long, unhurried afternoons spent in traditional teahouses. Evening free to explore Chengdu at your own pace. Overnight.

Day 7 - CHENGDU – Sichuan cooking experience

Breakfast. Today we dive deeper into one of China’s most exciting culinary traditions. The morning begins with a visit to a local market where vibrant spices, fresh vegetables and Sichuan pepper create a colourful introduction to regional cuisine.

Together with a local chef we then prepare several classic dishes during a hands-on cooking workshop. The aromas of chilli, garlic and pepper fill the kitchen as we learn the secrets behind Sichuan cooking. The dishes we prepare become our shared lunch — one of the most social moments of the journey.

Afternoon and evening remain free to enjoy Chengdu’s relaxed atmosphere. Overnight.

Day 8 - CHENGDU – FURONG TOWN – Into the landscapes of Hunan

Breakfast and transfer to the railway station. A morning high-speed train brings us from Sichuan province toward the dramatic landscapes of Hunan. Local lunch. After arrival near Zhangjiajie we continue by road to Furong Town.

Perched dramatically above a waterfall, Furong feels like a place from another time. Wooden houses cling to cliffs while narrow streets wind through lantern-lit alleys.

As evening falls, we walk through the town and down toward the waterfall viewpoint where lights reflect on the water and create one of the most atmospheric scenes of the journey.

Overnight in Furong Town.

Day 9 - FURONG – ZHANGJIAJIE – Gateway to the Avatar mountains

Breakfast. The morning is free to enjoy the magical atmosphere of Furong Town — quiet stone streets, mist rising from the valley and the constant sound of the waterfall echoing through the village.

Late in the morning we continue our journey toward Zhangjiajie and the Wulingyuan area, the gateway to one of the most extraordinary landscapes in China. After arrival and hotel check-in we take a gentle walk through the village surroundings, allowing ourselves to settle into the peaceful environment and prepare for the spectacular nature experiences that await us in the coming days. Dinner in a local restaurant and overnight in Wulingyuan.

Day 10 - ZHANGJIAJIE – Avatar mountains

Breakfast. Today is dedicated to exploring the surreal landscapes of Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, one of China’s most extraordinary natural wonders. Towering sandstone pillars rise dramatically from deep, misty valleys, creating a dreamlike scenery that feels almost otherworldly — a landscape that famously inspired the floating mountains in the film Avatar.

Using Park shuttle buses, scenic walking trails and the remarkable Bailong Elevator, built directly into the face of a cliff, we ascend into this breathtaking world of stone peaks and forested ridges. Our exploration leads us to some of the park’s most spectacular viewpoints, including the dramatic Yuanjiajie plateau, where narrow paths wind between vertical rock towers and panoramic terraces reveal endless layers of pillars disappearing into the mist.

In the late afternoon we return to Wulingyuan, filled with impressions of one of the most unforgettable natural landscapes in China. Overnight.

Day 11 - ZHANGJIAJIE – Grand Canyon and Glass Bridge

Breakfast. A short drive brings us to the Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon, where dramatic cliffs and lush forest landscapes create another spectacular natural setting. Here we encounter the famous Glass Bridge, suspended high above the canyon and offering thrilling views straight down to the valley floor below. Those who wish can cross the bridge, while others may enjoy the surrounding viewpoints and take in the impressive scenery from solid ground.

Afterwards we take a relaxed walk through the canyon, following paths that lead past waterfalls, clear streams and striking rock formations hidden among the greenery. The peaceful sound of flowing water and the towering canyon walls create a refreshing contrast to the dramatic mountain landscapes we explored in previous days. Along the way we pause at several scenic viewpoints that reveal the depth and beauty of this remarkable canyon.

In the late afternoon we return to Wulingyuan, where the evening is free to relax and enjoy the atmosphere of this unique mountain region. Overnight.

Day 12 - ZHANGJIAJIE – Tianmen Mountain – SHANGHAI

Breakfast and departure toward Zhangjiajie City. Today we ascend Tianmen Mountain by one of the longest cable car rides in the world. The journey itself is spectacular as the cabins glide high above forests, steep cliffs and winding mountain roads, gradually revealing breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

As we gain altitude, the dramatic scenery of Zhangjiajie unfolds beneath us, offering a unique perspective of the region’s rugged terrain. At the summit we walk along dramatic glass skywalks attached to the mountainside, providing thrilling views deep into the valleys below. Our path leads us to the legendary Tianmen Cave — the immense natural arch known as Heaven’s Gate, one of the most iconic sights in the region. We take time to admire the scale of this remarkable formation and the sweeping views across the surrounding mountains.

After exploring the summit, we descend the mountain and continue to the airport. Before we leave, last moments in the China’s countryside for local dinner. Flight to Shanghai. Late evening arrival and overnight in Shanghai.

Day 13 - SHANGHAI – Modern China

Breakfast. Shanghai reveals the dynamic face of modern China. Our exploration begins in the historic Yu Garden area where traditional architecture and lively markets create a fascinating contrast with the modern skyline.

We continue to the Jade Buddha Temple before walking along the famous Bund promenade — the perfect place to observe the futuristic skyline of Pudong rising across the Huangpu River.

Later we explore Tianzifang, a creative district of narrow alleys filled with galleries, cafés and small boutiques. Free evening to enjoy the vibrant energy of Shanghai. Overnight.

Day 14 - SHANGHAI – ZAGREB

Breakfast and transfer to the airport. After nearly two weeks of cities, mountains and cultural encounters, we leave China with memories of ancient empires, surreal landscapes and vibrant modern life.

Flight back to Europe.