Cultural tours in the Chinese Mainland with Cathay Holidays

From ancient Chinese towns to youthful street culture
Aerial view of a winding blue river surrounded by dense evergreen forest and grassy shoreline.
Credit: Cheng YINYI WANG/Getty Images
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Chinese Mainland

Our private guided tour packages take the hassle out of holidays so you can explore the Chinese Mainland comfortably and completely worry-free. Every detail is covered, from flights to hotels to enriching cultural experiences. Designed for two guests or more, each itinerary is thoughtfully arranged with your comfort and enjoyment in mind. Simply book with Cathay Holidays* at least 21 days before departure and earn up to HKD4 = 1.

A turquoise river winds through a wide valley of golden grasslands and dense evergreen trees with forested hills in the background, partially covered by low, drifting clouds.

Credit: Cheng Gavin Guan/Getty Images

Xinjiang

Explore Xinjiang’s awe-inspiring nature and culture, from glacial lakes, rolling grasslands and desert horizons to bazaars, old towns and grand mosques. Our 10-day Northern Xinjiang circuit takes you from the emerald Kanas Lake, surrounded by forested mountains, to the sweeping Nalati Sky Grassland, where herds of sheep graze on alpine meadows. Alternatively, follow the Silk Road on a 13-day Southern odyssey, from the historic lanes of Kashgar Old City to the vast dunes of the Taklamakan Desert.

The offer: book by 22 September 2026 and travel by 12 October 2026.

A small covered wooden boat floats in the centre of a calm green river lined with traditional stilt houses, layered tiled roofs and balconies overlook the water.

Credit: Cheng kitchakron/Getty Images

Hunan

Alongside its delicious food, rich historical legacy and youthful street culture, Changsha is a gateway to Hunan’s breathtaking backcountry. Our six-day guided tour brings you to iconic landscapes, including Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, Tianmen Mountain and the old town of Fenghuang. Explore Zhangjiajie on a scenic train ride and thrilling Glass Bridge walk, taking in towering quartz-sandstone peaks that rise above mist-filled valleys. At Fenghuang’s storied riverfront, don traditional Miao attire and cruise the Tuojiang River by night.

The offer: book by 29 September 2026 and travel by 19 October 2026.

A mountain viewpoint with a stone walkway and wooden railings overlooking dramatic granite peaks.

Credit: Cheng Casanowe/Getty Images

Xi’an

One of the greatest ancient capitals of the Chinese Mainland, Xi’an is moulded by imperial history, cultural exchange and enduring traditions. On this five-day guided tour, discover the Terracotta Warriors at the mausoleum of the Chinese Mainland’s first emperor, admire the Tang-era Daming and Huaqing palaces and ascend Mount Huashan’s granite peaks by cable car. To cap things off, experience intangible cultural heritage with a traditional shadow puppet performance, and a hanfu styling and professional photography session.

The offer: book by 10 October 2026 and travel by 31 October 2026.

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Chinese Mainland