Beijing
China's capital and cultural heart, home to the Forbidden City, the Great Wall, leading universities and many of the institutions shaping modern China.
City guides
Explore China
Gateway cities are only the beginning. We connect them with deeper regional experiences, so each part of China can reveal a different side of the country.
Most international travellers first meet China through gateway cities such as Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou or Shenzhen. These cities are important entry points, but they are only the beginning.
Futures connects gateway cities with deeper regional experiences: school immersion, industry visits, high-speed rail travel, ancient villages, local food, natural landscapes and conversations with the people shaping everyday China, so each region and city reveals a different side of the country.
01
Beijing & North China
History, heritage and the foundations of modern China
Beijing and North China offer a powerful introduction to China's history, political development, education system and cultural identity. From imperial landmarks and ancient city walls to leading universities and modern urban life, the region gives valuable context for understanding China past and present.
Featured cities
Tianjin
A historic port city known for its distinctive architecture, modern development and role in northern China's economic growth.
Datong
One of China's historic cultural centres, famous for the Yungang Grottoes and centuries of Buddhist heritage.
02
Yangtze River Delta
Innovation, heritage and everyday life
The Yangtze River Delta is often the ideal first introduction to China. Combining world-class cities, advanced infrastructure, rich cultural heritage and beautiful natural landscapes, it offers one of the most balanced views of modern China. The region is home to some of China's most influential economic centres while preserving centuries-old traditions, gardens, villages and waterways.
Featured cities
Shanghai
China's most international city, where global commerce, modern lifestyles and historic neighbourhoods exist side by side.
Hangzhou
Known for West Lake, tea culture and a thriving innovation ecosystem, Hangzhou combines natural beauty with modern entrepreneurship.
Suzhou
Famous for classical gardens, canals and silk heritage, while also being one of China's leading manufacturing and technology centres.
Nanjing
A former capital rich in history, education and cultural significance.
Hefei
An emerging innovation hub and gateway to educational and scientific exchange.
Huangshan
Home to China's most iconic mountain landscapes and the historic villages of Huizhou culture.
03
Greater Bay Area
China's gateway to innovation and global business
The Greater Bay Area links Hong Kong, Shenzhen, Guangzhou and surrounding cities into one of the world's most dynamic economic regions. It is a place where innovation, advanced manufacturing, technology, entrepreneurship and international trade come together, offering unparalleled insight into the future direction of China's economy.
Featured cities
Shenzhen
China's technology and innovation capital, known for entrepreneurship, advanced manufacturing and rapid development.
Guangzhou
A major commercial centre with deep trading history, diverse food culture and strong international connections.
Hong Kong
A global financial hub where East and West continue to intersect.
Zhuhai
A coastal city known for innovation, quality of life and integration within the Greater Bay Area.
04
Southwest China
Lifestyle, landscapes and cultural discovery
Southwest China offers one of the most engaging introductions to China's diverse lifestyles, regional cultures and natural beauty. From the tea houses of Chengdu and the vibrant energy of Chongqing to the mountain landscapes of Yunnan and the iconic scenery of Guilin, this region reveals a side of China shaped by food, nature, creativity and everyday life. Rich in cultural traditions, local flavours and spectacular scenery, it invites travellers to experience China through the places people live, gather, celebrate and connect.
Featured cities
Chengdu
The home of the giant panda and one of China's most liveable cities, known for tea culture, Sichuan cuisine and a relaxed yet creative urban lifestyle.
Chongqing
A dynamic mountain city where rivers, bridges, hotpot culture and rapid development create one of China's most distinctive urban experiences.
Kunming
Known as the City of Eternal Spring, offering access to Southwest China's diverse landscapes and cultures.
Dali
A lakeside town celebrated for its slower pace, historic character and strong local identity.
Lijiang
A UNESCO-listed ancient town where mountain scenery, traditional architecture and cultural heritage come together.
Guilin
Famous for its dramatic karst mountains and river landscapes that have inspired Chinese artists and poets for centuries.
Journey themes
- Regional food cultures
- Tea and everyday life
- Nature and landscapes
- Local traditions
- Arts and creative inspiration
- Family discovery
05
Silk Road & Western China
Civilisations, cultures and connections
For centuries, the Silk Road connected China with Central Asia, the Middle East and Europe, creating one of history's most remarkable networks of exchange. More than a trade route, it was a meeting place of civilisations, where ideas, religions, languages, art forms and traditions travelled across continents. From the imperial history of Xi'an to the desert heritage of Dunhuang and the colourful landscapes of Zhangye, this region reveals a side of China shaped by movement, diversity and cultural connection.
Featured cities
Xi'an
One of China's great ancient capitals and the eastern gateway of the Silk Road. Home to the Terracotta Warriors, ancient city walls and a rich legacy of imperial history.
Dunhuang
A legendary desert oasis where traders, pilgrims and explorers once crossed paths. Famous for the UNESCO-listed Mogao Caves and one of the world's great collections of Buddhist art.
Zhangye
Known for its spectacular Rainbow Mountains and dramatic geological formations that showcase the landscapes of western China.
Jiayuguan
The western end of the Ming Great Wall and an important historic pass along the Silk Road, with insight into frontier history and defence systems.
Lanzhou
A historic Yellow River city and gateway to China's northwest, connecting travellers with Silk Road history and regional food culture.
Journey themes
- Silk Road heritage
- Ancient civilisations
- Buddhist art and cultural exchange
- Desert and mountain landscapes
- Archaeology and history
- Photography and exploration
Not sure which region fits your group?
Tell us who is travelling and what you want the journey to achieve. We will suggest the regions and cities that fit, and shape a bespoke route around them.