Difficulty: ★★☆☆☆
Duration: 1 to 2 weeks
Group size: 8 to12 travelers
Ethnic China
Theme: Hidden Villages and Minority Traditions
Route 1: Guilin – Yangshuo – Longji – Sanjiang – Kaili - Guiyang (Zhuang & Dong cultures)
Route 2: Guiyang – Fenghuang – Zhangjiajie – Changsha – Chongqing (Miao & Tujia culture + Inner Modern China)
Routes Overview
Embark on an unforgettable journey through southern China, exploring the vibrant cultures of the Miao, Dong, Zhuang, and Yao ethnic minorities. Stay in traditional wooden villages, participate in centuries-old festivals, and learn local crafts, music, and culinary traditions that have been preserved for generations.
Wander through misty karst mountains, cross iconic stone bridges, and explore towns seemingly frozen in time. Cycle or hike through terraced fields, boat along serene rivers, and stroll bustling local markets, all while gaining a rare, intimate perspective on rural southern China.
Finish your expedition in the dynamic cities of Changsha and Chongqing, where neon-lit skylines and cyberpunk-inspired streets create a striking contrast to the region’s traditional villages. This journey is a rare opportunity to experience the full spectrum of southern China, from timeless cultural heritage to modern urban energy.
Route 1
Duration: 6 Days / 5 Nights
Destinations: Guilin – Yangshuo – Longji – Sanjiang – Kaili - Guiyang (Zhuang & Dong cultures)
Discover the best of Guangxi and Guizhou as you cruise the Li River, wander ancient villages, and hike the stunning Longji Terraces. Meet Zhuang, Yao, Miao, and Dong communities, experiencing their traditions, crafts, and festivals. A journey of landscapes, culture, and authentic encounters—ending in the vibrant streets of Guiyang.
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Cruise the Li River, cycle through Yangshuo’s karst hills, and hike the Dragon’s Backbone Rice Terraces
Walk across ancient Dong bridges and explore their iconic wooden architecture
Stay in village homestays, gaining intimate insight into local daily life and traditions
Explore the scenic Zhangjiajie mountains, inspiration for cinematic landscapes worldwide
Route 2
Duration: 7 Days / 6 Nights
Destinations: Guiyang – Fenghuang – Zhangjiajie – Changsha – Chongqing (Miao & Tujia culture + Inner Modern China)
Explore the ancient charm of Fenghuang, the dramatic peaks of Zhangjiajie, and the vibrant culture of Changsha, with an optional futuristic finale in Chongqing. A journey that blends ethnic traditions, breathtaking landscapes, and modern neon cityscapes into one unforgettable adventure.
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Attend ethnic festivals, witnessing traditional music, dance, and ceremonial rituals
Experience some of the best Chinese regional cuisine, from Guangxi to Guizhou and Hunan specialties
Experience modern southern China in Changsha and Chongqing, contrasting centuries-old villages with neon-lit cyberpunk urban streets
Highlights
Cruise the Li River, cycle through Yangshuo’s karst hills, and hike the Dragon’s Backbone Rice Terraces
Walk across ancient Dong bridges and explore their iconic wooden architecture
Stay in village homestays, gaining intimate insight into local daily life and traditions
Explore the scenic Zhangjiajie mountains, inspiration for cinematic landscapes worldwide
Attend ethnic festivals, witnessing traditional music, dance, and ceremonial rituals
Experience some of the best Chinese regional cuisine, from Guangxi to Guizhou and Hunan specialties
Experience modern southern China in Changsha and Chongqing, contrasting centuries-old villages with neon-lit cyberpunk urban streets
Why Join
This journey invites you to step inside China’s living mix of cultures, where every village, festival, and handcrafted artifact tells a story centuries in the making.
Traverse mist-shrouded mountains, cross ancient wooden bridges, and enter homes where traditions of the Miao, Dong, Zhuang, and Yao endure in music, gastronomy, and daily life.
Here, the rhythm of local life create an experience that is immersive and unforgettable.
Conditions & Pricing
Conditions
What is included:
✅ Accommodation with breakfast
✅ Dinners featuring local cuisine
✅ All local transportation
✅ Expert local guides
✅ Drivers, fuel
✅ Complimentary drinks and snacks
✅ Visa support and assistance
✅ Travel insurance coverage
✅ Dedicated media team
What is NOT included:
❌ International flights
❌ Personal extra meals and expenses
❌ Optional activities
❌ Visa costs (when applicable)
Pricing
Route 1: From US$2,600
Route 2: From US$2,900
Full quote sent once the group is assembled.
Get 10% discount if you book both routes.
No worries! Feel free to contact us to get tailor made support to select your next adventure to China with Shambhala.
Not sure where to start?
Things to Know
Every expedition is designed to balance comfort, discovery, and a spirit of adventure. Before you join us, here are a few key details to help you prepare and make the most of your journey — from what to expect on the road to how we travel, stay, and experience each destination.
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Minority Regions (Guizhou, Guangxi, Hunan borders)
15–24°C — Misty mornings, humid afternoons, frequent light rain. Green, foggy, atmospheric.
Bring: Light waterproof jacket, quick-dry layers, warm evening layer.Guangxi (Guilin / Yangshuo / Longji)
18–26°C — Warm, humid, on-and-off rain with misty karst views. Great for cycling and terrace hikes.
Bring: Rain gear.Changsha
16–25°C — Warm, cloudy, regular showers, rising humidity.
Bring: Light layers + umbrella.Chongqing
18–28°C — Warm to hot, very humid, occasional rainstorms, warm nights.
Bring: Breathable clothing.Overall: Warm, humid spring across the region; wetter in Guizhou & Guangxi, drier toward Chongqing. Expect misty mornings, comfortable days, and mild nights.
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We use a mix of high-speed trains, private vans, and one overnight Arctic train, offering a true overland experience through China’s winter heartland. It’s a comfortable and scenic way to witness the country’s vast diversity.
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You’ll stay in a mix of boutique hotels, cozy mountain lodges, and warm wooden guesthouses — all handpicked for charm, comfort, and atmosphere. Expect heated rooms, local character, and authentic northern hospitality.
From remote mountain trails to cultural hidden gems, we design seamless, small-group adventures that combine exploration, and authentic local experiences.
Explore 12 Expeditions in China with Shambhala
Ethnic China
Wild West I
Trans- Taklamakan
Silk Road Frontier
Northeast China
The Tea Route
Duku Highway
Mongol Crusades
Wild West II
Western Tibet
China Digital Economy
Bespoke Expeditions
Create your own adventure here.