Ni hao Chongqing!!
Day 1 – Departure from London
Our adventure began at London Heathrow, where excitement filled the air as I met the group I’d be travelling with. Everyone was buzzing with anticipation, ready to immerse ourselves in the history, food, and traditions of China. Check-in with Air China was smooth and efficient. The kind of start every traveller hopes for. Before long, we were comfortably settled on the plane, ready for the long-haul flight east. The service on board was excellent, and as the lights dimmed over Europe, I couldn’t help but imagine the wonders waiting for us in Sichuan province.
Day 2 – Arrival in Chengdu & High-Speed Adventure
We landed in Chengdu, the capital of Sichuan. From there, we headed straight to the bullet train for our journey to Chongqing, an experience I’ll never forget! Watching the countryside blur past at 330 km/h was incredible, a testament to China’s impressive infrastructure and innovation. The ride itself was smooth and surprisingly peaceful, with views of green hills, distant villages, and rice paddies flashing by. Upon arriving in Chongqing, we checked into a our hotel and bedded down for the night. After the long journey, a well-earned sleep in a comfortable King bed felt like absolute bliss.
Day 3 – Ancient Traditions and Cultural Wonders
Our third day was one of pure cultural immersion. We began by visiting the ancient town of Tongnan, where time seems to slow down amid charming stone streets and wooden buildings. Upon arrival, we were greeted by a traditional welcome dance; vibrant performance full of colour that instantly made us feel part of the community. The locals’ warmth and pride in their heritage were truly touching. As we wandered through Tongnan, we admired beautifully preserved architecture, delicate paper lanterns, and little shops selling handmade crafts and local snacks. It was like stepping into a living museum of Chinese culture.
Later, we were treated to a Chinese opera performance; an art form that combines music, elaborate costumes, and dramatic storytelling. The performers’ precision, expressive gestures, and ornate makeup were captivating; even without understanding a single word.
Lunch that day was a communal affair. We gathered around a large round table with a lazy Susan, spinning dish after dish of authentic Sichuan cuisine. Fragrant stir-fries, steaming dumplings, spicy tofu, and perfectly cooked vegetables. In the afternoon, we visited the Dazu Rock Carvings, one of China’s most magnificent cultural treasures. These intricate carvings, dating back to the 9th century, depict Buddhist teachings and scenes of everyday life, all painstakingly etched into the cliffs. Standing there, surrounded by centuries of devotion and artistry, was profoundly moving. The detail and craftsmanship were breathtaking, each carving told a story of faith, patience, and creativity. Dinner that evening continued the culinary adventure, featuring traditional Chinese dishes that showcased the region’s rich flavours, a perfect way to end such an inspiring day.
Day 4 – Pandas, Peaks & Pools
This was the day I had been looking forward to the most, meeting the pandas!! Honestly, it was everything I hoped for and more. Watching them munch away on bamboo, rolling around without a care in the world, and looking adorable in every pose made my entire morning. They’re every bit as captivating in real life as the photos suggest. Our next stop was a Hot Pot Museum. Wandering through exhibits dedicated to spices, broths, and its fiery cultural evolution made me appreciate our future hot pot meals on a whole new level. In the afternoon, we ascended a skyscraper for panoramic views of Chongqing. Standing above the city as the river wound around the skyscrapers below felt surreal. We then hopped on the famous cable car across the river. Afterwards came a banquet dinner paired with a vibrant cultural show, full of music and colours. I tried jellyfish and sea cucumber for the first time, two things I don’t think I'll be eating again! The night didn't end there. We sailed along the river on a cruise that featured a spectacular drone show, lighting up the sky with pandas and ballerinas. To round off what might be one of the most perfect days ever, we ended soaking in the mountain hot springs, warm steam rising into the cool night air. Bliss.
Day 5 – Ancient Towns & Emotional Evenings
Today we ventured into a 1,000-year-old town, a place that felt preserved in time with cobbled streets, old wooden houses, and bright red lanterns hanging overhead. Local vendors sold everything from insects on sticks to freshly fried dough, while bubbling pots of spicy hot pot tempted the adventurous. It was charming, authentic, and incredibly photogenic.
In the evening, we attended a performance called “1949”. The show tells the emotionally charged story of China’s transition into the modern era, focusing on families divided, reunited, and reshaped by the events surrounding the founding of the People’s Republic of China. Through music and breathtaking set design, the story came to life in a way that was unexpectedly moving. I cried, it was that powerful.
Day 6 – Trains and Traditions
We kicked off the morning by boarding a bullet train to Shizhu, gliding through the countryside at astonishing speed. When we arrived at the Shizhu heritage site, we were greeted with traditional songs performed by locals, their voices echoing beautifully across a stunning bridge framed by the mountains. We continued to Pengshui, home to a historic stilted house nestled among misty trees and rolling hills. You could see this magnificent structure from my hotel room balcony, and I honestly don't think there was a better view in China.
Day 7 – Nature & Neon
This morning, we visited the breathtaking Tiankeng Three Bridges, a natural wonder that truly looked like a set from Jurassic Park. Towering limestone archways, lush greenery, waterfalls, caverns, the works. Nature at its most cinematic. We travelled back to Chongqing for the evening and wandered through the iconic Hongya Dong, a glowing maze of lanterns, food stalls, cliffside architecture and shimmering lights. Every corner had street food sizzling, souvenirs spilling out of shops, and the kind of lively atmosphere you never want to leave.
Day 8 – New City, New Skyline
Today we flew to Shanghai, and thanks to the Wendy Wu guides, the airport journey was effortless. Although we arrived late, there was still time for a river cruise, where we saw The Bund illuminated at night. The skyscrapers shimmered in neon blues, reds, and golds.
Day 9 – Height, History & High-End Views
We started the day by ascending the Shanghai Tower, the third-tallest building in the world, and the views were jaw-dropping. The city stretched endlessly in every direction. Afterwards, we took a leisurely walk along The Bund, admiring the blend of colonial history on one side and futuristic skyscrapers on the other. Then came a visit to the real Chinatown, full of authentic shops, flavours, and local life, a world away from the tourist versions elsewhere. We rounded off the night at a rooftop bar atop the Ritz-Carlton, sipping incredible cocktails while the entire city glittered beneath us. Pure magic.
Day 10 – Speed, Spirituality & Serenity
On our last full day, we boarded the Maglev train, which zoomed along at over 600 km/hr an experience that makes you feel like you’re travelling into the future. We wandered around the French Quarter, which was elegant and full of old European charm, before heading to the peaceful Jade Temple, where incense drifted through the golden halls. To end the trip on the perfect note, we treated ourselves to a traditional Chinese massage, the ideal reset before the journey home.
Ready for Your Own Chinese Adventure?
This journey through China was inspiring, emotional, and unforgettable and an experience I’d love to help you enjoy for yourself. If my stories have sparked your wanderlust, pop into the Chepstow shop to chat with me, ask any questions, and start planning your own incredible journey to China.
