Tokyo Highlights: Asakusa, Meiji Shrine & Shibuya Crossing
DAY
16
Mt. Fuji & Lake Kawaguchiko Excurson
DAY
17
Day at Leisure in Tokyo
DAY
18
Depart from Tokyo
Travel Itinerary
Trip Starts
Trip Stop
Trip Ends
Detailed Itinerary
DAY
1
DAY
1
Arrive in Beijing
Transfer
Beijing Capital Airport to Beijing - City Centre (2nd Ring Road)
Your Accommodation
Crowne Plaza Beijing Chaoyang U-Town
Crowne Plaza Beijing Chaoyang U-Town is a stylish modern hotel located in the vibrant Chaoyang District, close to shops, dining, and public transport. It offers spacious, comfortable rooms and excellent amenities, including a heated indoor pool, spa, and fitness center. The hotel provides a convenient base for exploring Beijing's top attractions while enjoying premium dining and leisure options.
Full Day Beijing Highlights: Tiananmen Square, Forbidden City & Hutongs with Lunch
Begin your city tour at Tian'anmen Square, the historic heart of China and the largest public plaza in the world, known for its role in major national events. Continue to the magnificent Forbidden City (Palace Museum) (closed on Mondays), the iconic imperial palace of the Ming and Qing Dynasties. Built by over 200,000 craftsmen, this vast complex once housed 24 emperors and features 9,999 rooms of ceremonial, administrative, and private spaces.
In the afternoon, explore the scenic Houhai District, with its lakes, traditional courtyard homes, and narrow hutong alleyways. Enjoy a pedicab ride through these historic lanes and visit a local family's home. Continue to the impressive Bell and Drum Towers, nationally protected cultural landmarks that once served as the official timekeepers of Beijing during the Yuan, Ming, and Qing Dynasties.
DAY
3
DAY
3
The Great Wall at Mutianyu
Day Tour
Morning Great Wall at Mutianyu Excursion with Lunch
Meet your guide and driver at your hotel and transfer to the Mutianyu section of the Great Wall, a rugged and less crowded stretch that offers spectacular views as it winds over the surrounding hills. The drive from Beijing takes approximately 2 hours. Upon arrival, take a short cable car ride up to the Wall, where you can explore its ancient watchtowers, walk along the winding stone paths, and enjoy sweeping vistas of the hills and forests. After soaking in the breathtaking scenery, return by cable car to meet your driver, and then stop at a restaurant for a relaxing lunch before heading back to Beijing.
DAY
4
DAY
4
Temple of Heaven, Summer Palace and High-Speed Train to Xi'an
Day Tour
Morning Temple of Heaven & Summer Palace Tour with Lunch
Begin your day at the Temple of Heaven, where locals gather to practice traditional morning exercises such as Tai Chi, creating a peaceful and lively atmosphere. A masterpiece of Ming Dynasty architecture, the temple embodies ancient Chinese beliefs in the harmony between heaven and earth, demonstrated through its refined geometry and engineering. Once a sacred site where emperors prayed for good harvests, it remains one of Beijing's most important cultural landmarks.
Continue to the Summer Palace, Beijing's best-preserved imperial garden. Located along the tranquil shores of Kunming Lake, this expansive retreat features graceful pavilions, temples, and covered corridors set amid beautifully landscaped grounds. Designed as a summer escape for the imperial family, the palace offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and classical Chinese garden design.
Transfer
Beijing - City Centre (2nd Ring Road) to Beijing Capital Airport
Rail
Beijing Station to Xian Station
Your guide will escort you through the train station to the train platform to board the train.
On arrival at the station, meet your guide on the train platform.
Transfer
Xi'an Train Station to Xi'an - City Centre (1st Ring Road)
Your Accommodation
Grand Mercure On Renmin Square
The Grand Mercure On Renmin Square is located inside the Ming Dynasty Wall of the ancient city of Xi'an, surrounded by quiet courtyards and elegant gardens, emanating the unique rich historical breath of the famous "cradle of Chinese civilization". 194 guest rooms and suites in spectacular style reflect 50 years of historical soul of the Renmin Building.
Xi'an Ancient Wonders: Terracotta Warriors & Evening Tang Dynasty Show
Day Tour
Full Day Ancient Wonders of Xi'an: Terracotta Warriors, Mausoleum & Cycling on the City Wall with Lunch
Begin your day with a visit to the Terracotta Warriors, one of the most extraordinary archaeological discoveries in the world. These 2,300-year-old life-sized figures were crafted to protect the tomb of China’s first emperor, Qinshihuang, in the afterlife. The site was accidentally uncovered by local farmers in 1974, and today, the warriors remain in their original positions, giving visitors a remarkable glimpse into ancient Chinese military organization, artistry, and funerary practices. You’ll see rows of soldiers, chariots, and horses, each uniquely detailed, reflecting the skill and dedication of the craftsmen who created them over two millennia ago.
After lunch, continue to the Ancient City Wall, one of the most well-preserved city walls in China and among the largest ancient military defense systems in the world. Take a 1-hour bike ride atop the wall, experiencing panoramic views of Xi’an and gaining a sense of its historic scale and grandeur.
DAY
6
DAY
6
Fly to Guilin, and Guilin Scenic Highlights
Transfer
Xi'an - City Centre (1st Ring Road) to Xi an Xianyang Airport
Transfer
Guilin Airport to Guilin - City Centre
Your Accommodation
Holiday Inn Express Guilin City Center
Holiday Inn Express Guilin City Center is a modern hotel designed for travelers seeking comfort and convenience in the heart of the city. Guests can enjoy well-designed rooms, a breakfast buffet, free Wi-Fi, a fitness room, self-service laundry, and efficient business facilities. With attentive service, a 24-hour front desk, and close proximity to major attractions and public transportation, the hotel offers a relaxed and hassle-free base for discovering Guilin.
Duration
2 Night Stay
Meal Plan
Buffet Breakfast
Day Tour
Half Day Reed Flute Cave and Fubo Hill Tour with Lunch
Explore the Reed Flute Caves, a renowned scenic spot known for its enchanting display of stalactites, stalagmites, stone columns, and rock formations in vivid shapes and colors, set against picturesque landscapes and rural scenery. Next, visit the stunning Fubo Hill, famously called the "Wonderland on Wave," with its striking peak rising high and its base partially surrounded by water. The hill's name, Fubo (Wave-Curbing) Hill, comes from the river at its eastern edge, which forms a deep pool.
Full Day Li River Cruise from Guilin to Yangshuo with Lunch
In the morning, transfer to the pier for your Li River Cruise aboard a comfortable double-decker boat. The journey from Guilin to Yangshuo offers a landscape that is nothing short of a natural masterpiece-crystal-clear waters, dramatic limestone peaks, serene farmland, smiling fishermen, and wandering water buffaloes create a scene straight out of a painting.
Relax under the blue sky as your boat glides through this enchanting scenery, a truly unforgettable experience. After approximately four and a half hours, the thousand-year-old town of Yangshuo comes into view. This charming town blends traditional Chinese culture with Western influences. Have some time to wander through the famous West Street, explore the variety of shops and restaurants, and then transfer by road back to your hotel in Guilin.
DAY
8
DAY
8
Fly to Shanghai and Evening Acrobatic Show
Transfer
Guilin - City Centre to Guilin Airport
Transfer
Shanghai Pu Dong Airport to Shanghai - Xuhui District
Your Accommodation
Renaissance Shanghai Yu Garden Hotel on the Bund
Renaissance Shanghai Yu Garden Hotel on the Bund is a chic hotel ideally situated near Yu Garden and just steps from the Bund and Xintiandi. Modern rooms offer city views and high-speed internet, while amenities include an indoor pool, fitness center, dining options, and a Club Lounge. Its central location makes it an ideal base for exploring Shanghai's historic sites and vibrant nightlife.
Duration
2 Night Stay
Meal Plan
Full Breakfast
Day Tour
Evening Acrobatic Show at Era Theatre
Pick up from hotel, enjoy a amazing Acrobatic Show at ERA Theatre. It hosts one of the best acrobatic shows in town. ERA - Intersection of Time put on in the theater is a multimillion-dollar stunning acrobatic extravaganza, the first of its kind in China, ERA is a multimedia odyssey whose inspiration is a direct result of the combination of traditional Chinese acrobatic arts and modern technology. The highlight of ht show includes Mirror Mirage, Magic Water, Floating Gondola, Music of ERA, Jar Juggling, Wheel of Life, Space Motorcycles. After that, transfer back to hotel.
Full Day Nanjing Road, The Bund, Yu Garden and Jade Buddha Temple including Lunch
Start the day to stroll along the Bund, a waterfront area in central, there is dozens of historical buildings, lining the Huangpu River. Then visit the Nanjing Road, enjoy the reputation as China No. 1 commercial center. It was the earliest commercial street in Shanghai since the city opened to the outside world. Continue to the 400-year-old Yu Garden (closed on Monday), Yuyuan Garden is a famous classical garden located in Anren Jie, Shanghai. The garden was finished in 1577 by a government officer of the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644). Outside of the garden is the famous Chen Huang Miao Bazaar-- an area of shops, restaurants and recreation facilities. and after Chinese lunch at local restaurant, continue to the Jade Buddha Temple, it was built to keep two jade Buddha statues which had been brought from Burma by a monk named Huigen. Late afternoon, transfer back to hotel. Evening is free at leisure with dinner on own.
DAY
10
DAY
10
Fly from Shanghai to Osaka and transfer to Kyoto
Transfer
Shanghai - Xuhui District to Shanghai Pu Dong Airport
Transfer
Osaka Kansai International Airport to Kyoto - City Centre
Your Accommodation
Hotel Vischio Kyoto
Hotel Vischio Kyoto by Granvia is conveniently located just a short walk from Kyoto Station. The property offers sophisticated, modern rooms with all the essentials including comfortable beds and spacious layouts. The hotel's relaxed ambiance, friendly service, and convenient amenities like a fitness center and restaurant make it a great base for exploring Kyoto.
Private Full Day Kyoto and Arashiyama Highlights by Public Transport
Begin your journey in the cultural heart of Japan with a visit to Kinkakuji Temple, also known as the Golden Pavilion. This breathtaking Zen temple, covered entirely in brilliant gold leaf, reflects beautifully in the surrounding pond and gardens. No matter the season - Kinkakuji offers a picture-perfect scene that captures the essence of Kyoto's timeless beauty.
Next, step back into the era of the samurai at Nijo Castle, a 17th-century fortress built for the powerful shogun Tokugawa Ieyasu. Wander through its elegant wooden halls, where the famous "nightingale floors" chirp softly underfoot to alert guards of approaching visitors. The castle's intricate wall paintings and beautifully landscaped gardens reflect the refined aesthetics of the Edo period. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Nijo Castle offers a fascinating glimpse into Japan's feudal history.
Continue your exploration at Nishiki Market, affectionately known as "Kyoto's Kitchen." Stretching over five bustling blocks, this lively market is packed with local vendors selling everything from fresh seafood and pickled vegetables to sweets, teas, and handcrafted souvenirs. Savor a few street snacks as you wander - perhaps some yuba (tofu skin), senbei (rice crackers), or freshly grilled skewers - and experience the flavors that define Kyoto's culinary heritage.
End your day in the scenic district of Arashiyama, located on the western edge of the city. Stroll through the famous Bamboo Grove, where towering stalks of bamboo sway gently in the breeze, creating a tranquil, almost otherworldly atmosphere.
DAY
12
DAY
12
Hiroshima & Miyajima Island Excursion by Bullet Train
Day Tour
Full Day Hiroshima and Miyajima Day Tour
Early this morning, take the bullet train from Kyoto to Hiroshima (2 hours). Upon arrival, meet your guide and transfer to Miyajimaguchi for the ferry to Miyajima Island. This enchanting island is home to the Shinto shrine of Itsukushima, famous for its huge bright orange gate (tori) that rises majestically out of the sea. At high tide it is considered to be one of the most beautiful sights in Japan. The size and physical landscape of Miyajima makes it an ideal place for walking, and you can spend some time relaxing on your own here. Return to central Hiroshima and visit the Peace Park and Memorial Museum, illuminating the tragic events of World War II. Drive past the eerie A-Bomb Dome, left standing in a ruinous state after more than 70 years. This evening, return by bullet train to Kyoto.
Shared Tea Ceremony and Kimono Experience in a Traditional Machiya House
Today you will have the opportunity to visit a traditional house and experience a classic Japanese artform. Get dressed in a beautiful casual kimono before participating in an authentic tea ceremony. Learn about tea history, various types of tea and tea ceremony etiquette from a professional instructor. You will see how every movement has a meaning and understand what the act of serving tea to guests means in Japan.
Day Tour
Private Half Day Kyoto Fushimi Highlights Tour
A celebrated site, the world - famous Fushimi Inari Shrine sees millions of visitors every year. Thousands of bright red torii gates line the mountain trail of Fushimi Inari Shrine. Walking through the truly unique vermillion gate pathway is a visually stunning experience. Inari is the Japanese God of rice harvest. It is also believed to bless businesses with an abundance of fortunes, hence its popularity with merchants. The shrine complex spans over the entire Mt. Inari (233m/765ft).
On your tour, you will visit the main shrine hall. Then, you will proceed through the famed vermillion gate tunnel. Next, visit a temple that once caught fire and was reconstructed a century after it was first constructed. At 120 meters, Sanjusangendo is the longest wooden structure in Japan. Inside, you will find 1001 statues of Kannon, the Buddhist saint of Mercy.
Then stop at a celebrated UNESCO site, Kiyomizu-dera Temple, which is older than Kyoto as the capital of Japan. Built for Kannon, the Buddhist saint of mercy, this temple is said to grant wishes of all kinds - and especially so for women praying for safe childbirth. The temple is famous for its wooden platform stage, the Kiyomizu Butai. The massive stage was constructed out of wood and joints - no nails. At four stories high, it was once a popular wish-making spot.
DAY
14
DAY
14
Bullet Train to Tokyo, Evening Food Walking Tour
Rail
Kyoto Station to Tokyo Station
You will make your way independently (at own expense) from your hotel to the train station for your train journey.
On arrival at the station, make your way independently (at own expense) by foot, local train, subway or taxi to your hotel (depending on your hotel location).
Your Accommodation
Shiba Park Hotel
Welcome to the best in Japanese hospitality, the Shiba Park Hotel. It is the tradition of this hotel to serve the local and overseas guests alike, with their well-trained, friendly and helpful staff. They offer many services regardless of whether you are travelling on business or pleasure.
Duration
4 Night Stay
Meal Plan
Buffet Breakfast
Day Tour
Shared Evening Flavours of Tokyo Food Tour
Tucked beneath the tracks in central Tokyo, Yurakucho is home to one of the city's most atmospheric dining enclaves - a maze of lantern-lit alleyways and long-standing izakaya and restaurants hidden beneath the rumble of passing trains. Tonight is your chance to explore Tokyo's vibrant food scene where the city's working crowd gathers after dark for good food, flowing drinks, and lively conversation. Enjoy a relaxed evening moving between handpicked local spots where the air is filled with the hum of Tokyoites unwinding. Each stop introduces a different flavour of Tokyo's casual dining culture and is a window into a side of Tokyo often missed - unpolished, energetic, and full of character.
Tokyo Highlights: Asakusa, Meiji Shrine & Shibuya Crossing
Day Tour
Private Full Day Tokyo Highlights Tour
Take a day tour of fascinating Tokyo. First up is Asakusa, Tokyo's old town where you can soak in the atmosphere of old Tokyo. Visit Sensoji, Tokyo's oldest temple and wander down Nakamise, a shopping street that has been providing temple visitors with a variety of traditional, local snacks and tourist souvenirs for centuries.
Next, visit Hamarikyu garden, an Edo Period Japanese garden surrounded by the Shiodome district's futuristic skyscrapers, a great example of how Japan is the land of contrasts. Later visit Meiji Shrine, a shrine dedicated to the deified spirit of Emperor Meiji and a popular place for traditional Japanese weddings. Finish the day at Shibuya's famous 5-way 'scramble crossing'.
DAY
16
DAY
16
Mt. Fuji & Lake Kawaguchiko Excurson
Day Tour
Mount Fuji and Hakone Full Day Tour with Lunch Return by Train
Experience the natural beauty of Japan on this unforgettable full-day adventure to Mt. Fuji and Hakone. Travel by coach to Japan's tallest and most revered mountain, the iconic Mt. Fuji, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Ascend to the 5th Station (weather permitting), perched 2,300 meters (7,546 feet) above sea level, where breathtaking panoramic views offer an unforgettable perspective of the surrounding landscape and, on clear days, stretch above the clouds. After enjoying a delicious Japanese lunch, continue into the picturesque Hakone region and ride the Hakone Ropeway to Owakudani, a dramatic volcanic valley where steam rises from active vents, showcasing the powerful forces beneath the earth's surface. Be sure to try one of the area's famous black eggs, a local specialty said to bring seven extra years of good luck and long life! From Owakudani, continue to Lake Ashi and enjoy a scenic high-speed cruise across its tranquil waters, taking in panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and, on clear days, majestic Mt. Fuji. End your unforgettable day with a ride back to Tokyo aboard Japan's world-famous Shinkansen bullet train.
Prices are "from" per person based on twin/double share accommodation and for travel in low season. Seasonal surcharges and blackout dates may apply. Limited seat/spaces and all pricing is subject to change and availability. Rates for single or triple travellers are available on request - please inquire.
Trip Includes
Private arrival and departure airport transfers with meet, greet, and guide assistance in China
Shared arrival and departure airport transfers in Japan (arrival Kansai / departure Haneda)
3 nights premium accommodations in Beijing
2 nights premium accommodations in Xi'an
2 nights premium accommodation in Guilin
2 nights premium accommodation in Shanghai
4 nights premium accommodations in Kyoto
4 nights premium accommodations in Tokyo
Private-guided Full Day Beijing Highlights Tour
Private-guided Morning Great Wall at Mutianyu Tour
Private-guided Morning Temple of Heaven & Summer Palace Tour
Private-guided Full Day Ancient Wonders of Xi'an Tour
Private-guided Half Day Reed Flute Cave and Fubo Hill Tour
Shared Li River Cruise from Guilin to Yangshuo
Private-guided Full Day Nanjing Road, The Bund, Yu Garden, and Jade Buddha Temple Tour
Private-guided Kyoto and Arashiyama Highlights by Public Transportation
Shared Hiroshima and Miyajima Day Tour (from Kyoto) by Bullet Train and Public Transportation
Shared Tea Ceremony and Kimono Experience in a Traditional Machiya House
Private Half Day Kyoto Fushimi Highlights Tour by Public Transportation
Shared Evening Flavours of Tokyo Food Tour
Private Full Day Tokyo Highlights Tour
Shared Lake Kawaguchiko, Chureito Pagoda, & Mt Fuji Excursion (from Tokyo) by Bus
Entrance fees to sites mentioned during guided tours
Tickets to the Tang Dynasty Show & Acrobatic Show (with return private transfers to your hotel)
High-speed train tickets in 1st class from Beijing > Xi'an
Bullet train tickets in Ordinary class from Kyoto > Tokyo
Luggage porter service at the train stations in Beijing and Xi'an
Breakfast daily (excluding day 1), 7 Lunch, 1 Dinner
Trip Excludes
Travel insurance
International and domestic airfare, airfare taxes
Meals and beverages not explicitly listed as included
October 9, 2026, was our 50th wedding anniversary. To celebrate, I wanted to take my bride to Europe for 50 days. Also, other than the flight over, I wanted to make the trip by train. I contacted Farnaz at Goway. The trip we planned ultimately extended to 60 days. It was absolutely flawless. We had great hotels, great tours. Even though this trip was complex and had a lot of moving parts, there were no problems. Farnaz and the folks at Goway done a great job. I highly recommend them and will definitely use them on any future tripsDaniel Graff
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We had a fabulous Croatia vacation with a cruise from Dubrovnik to Split, followed by land tours on Split and Opatija. Lodging was always comfortable and conveniently located. Tours and activities were perfectly suited to our interests. We have used GoWay for 2 vacations and are currently working on another. Karen
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We would like to thank our travel specialist, Bijal for all the planning and coordinating that was done to make our Tanzania trip as spectacular as it was from start to finish!
Everything went so smoothly from our transfers, to our accommodations, to all of our tours! The people we came into contact with were exemplary!
There were so many highlights on our trip from the animal sightings, to the balloon flight and champagne breakfast, to all the incredible scenery.
Our accommodations were stunning! The level of service was remarkable and the locations were beyond our expectations. To think we would be having dinner and seeing the zebras and the elephants in the distance was amazing!
Our tour guide/driver was very knowledgeable, friendly, passionate and had a keen eye for spotting animals in the distance. He made sure that we saw all the animals that we had hoped to see. it was truly a pleasure to spend the week with him.
Thank you again to Bijal for all the work in making this once in a lifetime trip so exceptional!! We look forward to having Bijal help us plan our future trips.The Chadwicks and Williams
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I wanted to do a once in a lifetime vacation but had no idea where to start, other than knowing where I wanted to go. I reached out to goway.com and Jessica (shoutout!), who is an expert on our specific destination, sent me an itinerary quickly! She had me going into the jungle one day, so I requested to swap that nonsense for a fishing charter, and before I knew it, my trip was ready.
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We recently worked with Jacqueline to plan our trip to Greece and had a wonderful experience. We made several revisions to our itinerary and Jacqueline was patient, understanding and prompt in responding to our needs. In addition to the specific tours she booked, she provided extra options and local suggestions for each place we visited in Greece. Her attention to detail and responsiveness made our trip incredibly memorable. Mark Mendell
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We have used Goway several times to plan simple & more complicated trips. The last 2 trips we worked with Brooke Theron who is extremely customer focused. She listens well & is alway flexible to look at alternatives. We will continue using this representative & Goway.
Our only criticism is that they do not break down the various costs of a trip which makes tipping very awkward. It can also create a sense of " mistrust" when all the costs are not transparent. Cheryl Hayes
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Our trip to Switzerland was an amazing experience. Our travel agent at GoWay, Bo was so helpful in helping my husband Louie plan just what we wanted to do on this trip. Taking the trains thru the county was easy by the many hours Louie and Bo worked on this. Also our helicopter ride in Zermatt on my birthday was just unbelievable. Flying around the Matterhorn and the Alps is one flight we will never forget. Thanks Bo for setting this up. The trip was one incredible adventure that we will never forget. Thanks again Bo, Lynn Gerber. Lynn Gerber
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We booked a Goway tour to Botswana and Zimbabwe and it was excellent. We worked with Brooke, the Goway represntative, to set up the tour and she was an outstanding agent who answered any questions we had very quickly and completely. Her hotel recommendation for the additional night we stayed was pefect.
Goway hires a local tour group, Jenman Safaris, to lead the safari in the 2 countries. The tour itself was amazing...the lodges that we stayed at were very nice and the food was great (except for one lodge's food). The Goway itinerary was slightly different than the actual Jenman Safari itinerary but most of the sites that we went to were the same as listed on the Goway itinerary. I would use Goway again because their choice of a local tour group was very good...nice lodges/camps and good food and knowledgeable tour guides.Ma Fa
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Our GoWay tour representative, Michael Keon, was on top of all of our concerns and questions in a professional manner and we look forward to working with him in the future. Michael was very easy to work with and treated us like family.Thomas
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Matthew handled my honeymoon couple's very specific African itinerary like a pro! My clients went to four different travel agents who only wanted to send them on safaris. My clients had already done safaris and were specific on what they wanted to do and see. Matthew hit the nail on the head! Highly recommend!Amanda Schott
It is very enjoyable to travel in China by high-speed train, but you should avoid travelling during the National Holidays from October 1 to 7 and from May 1 to 4, as they get extra busy.
Jinxian Road in Shanghai is a small road but full of superb, Michelin-recognized restaurants. I highly recommend visiting here on your travels to China.
China's many beautiful natural sights and rich cultural areas are what I love most about visiting. Some of my personal favourites are Yunnan's Shangri-La, Xinjiang, Zhangjiajie, and the 5 Great Mountains.