From the Great Wall to the Land of the Rising Sun: China by Rail & All-Inclusive Japan Voyage

Your holiday begins as you fly from the UK to your destination.

Arriving in Beijing, check into your hotel for four nights filled with exciting tours. With its bustling markets, parks, and an exciting arts and entertainment scene, Beijing offers a captivating blend of tradition and innovation.

China’s dynamic capital reveals centuries of heritage alongside bold modern energy. Ancient palaces, leafy boulevards, and lively neighbourhoods create a memorable atmosphere, where grand history and contemporary culture combine to shape one of Asia’s most fascinating cities.

Visit the magnificent Temple of Heaven with its symbolic representations of heaven and Earth, together with the scarlet-walled Forbidden City – home to imperial rulers. Then on to Tiananmen Square and the heart of the People’s Republic.

Get ready for the Great Wall of China – the longest wall in the world. Discover its 2,000-year history, then wander around the breathtaking Summer Palace and imperial gardens, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Leaving Beijing behind, you’ll travel to Xi’an by bullet train for a two-night escape and the imposing Terracotta Army. History buffs will also appreciate the Bell Tower of Xi’an, built in 1384, while foodies may wish to stroll the Muslim Quarter, packed with tasty local cuisine.

Discovered in 1974, the Terracotta Army is a symbol of the megalomania of Qin Shi Huangdi, China’s first emperor. This evening, you’ll enjoy a Tang Dynasty dinner and show that evokes the richness and culinary heritage of Xi’an’s golden era.

This morning, you’ll set out to explore one of Xi’an’s most defining landmarks, the Big Wild Goose Pagoda. Continue to explore the Muslim Quarter and Great Mosque, before enjoying a delicious lunch and boarding the high-speed train to Chengdu.

Visit the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, where peaceful bamboo groves frame a heartwarming encounter with China’s most beloved animals. Later, stroll along Jinli Street, where teahouses, local delicacies, and traditional crafts capture the spirit of Sichuan.

Today, you’ll board the train and find your first-class seat for your journey to Guilin. Upon arrival, meet your guide and be transferred to your hotel – your home for the next two nights.

Enjoy a scenic day trip along the Li River to Yangshuo, where mist-draped karst peaks and bamboo-fringed banks create one of China’s most celebrated landscapes. Later, wander lively West Street before a dinner overlooking the Yulong River.

Flying to Hong Kong, you’ll next enjoy a two-night hotel stay. Once settled, you could take a ride on the iconic Star Ferry across Victoria Harbour, or wander up to Man Mo Temple in Sheung Wan, a beautifully preserved 1840s temple.

Enjoy another day to explore Hong Kong. Stroll the Tsim Sha Tsui waterfront for iconic skyline views, browse the bustling markets and shops, then head to the Avenue of Stars at 8pm for the dazzling Symphony of Lights.

Flying to Tokyo, you’ll enjoy an overnight hotel stay before the next leg of your adventure.

Celebrity Millennium^® has a superb range of activities and entertainment, designed with you in mind. With a vast array of dining venues, you’re sure to find the perfect spot to match your mood and occasion.

Welcome to Japan’s bold, food-obsessed second city. With an overnight in port, explore at your own pace. Head to neon-lit Dotonbori to feast on takoyaki, browse the Shinsaibashi shopping arcades, or soak up the irreverent energy that makes Osaka unique.

Admire Osaka Castle and its tranquil gardens or board a swift train to the region’s cultural jewels: Kyoto’s gilded temples, Nara’s sacred deer, or the resplendent Himeji Castle. Japan’s exemplary rail network makes each within effortless reach.

Step ashore on Shikoku, Japan’s most relaxed and unhurried island. Explore Kōchi Castle, then savour seared bonito among friendly locals at the lively Hirome Market. As your ship arrives, watch for the spirited Yosakoi dancers welcoming you to the pier.

In Busan, wander the rainbow-hued hillside houses of Gamcheon Culture Village, often called the “Machu Picchu of Busan”, then browse Jagalchi, Korea’s largest fish market. Unwind on Haeundae Beach, and don’t miss the spectacular seaside temple of Haedong Yonggungsa.

A moving, beautiful port docking right downtown. Reflect at the Peace Park and Atomic Bomb Museum, explore hillside Glover Garden, or wander Japan’s oldest Chinatown. Be sure to try champon noodles and Portuguese-influenced castella cake before you sail.

Often called “Naples of the East”, here you can stand on an active volcano and be back for lunch. Take the short 15-minute ferry to Sakurajima, walk its dramatic lava trails, then soak in free volcano-view footbaths.

Framed by the majestic Mount Fuji, Shimizu ranks among Japan’s most beautiful ports. Stroll the storied pine groves of Miho-no-Matsubara, ascend the Nihondaira plateau, or savour delicate sakura-ebi shrimp and freshly prepared sushi beside the waterfront plaza.

Your grand finale: two days in Japan’s dazzling capital. Contrast ancient Senso-ji Temple in Asakusa with futuristic Shibuya, savour world-class sushi, and explore districts from Harajuku to Ginza. The overnight stay gives you precious extra time to soak it all in.

Today your holiday comes to an end as you disembark your ship and fly home.