China in Three Chapters: Beijing, Sichuan & Chongqing

China can feel overwhelming on a first visit. This journey is built in three chapters, each with its own rhythm, so that the icons you came to see, the places you settle into and the surprises you never expected each get room to breathe.

Chapter one is Beijing, the China you came to see. We start gently, with a light first day, then follow the old-city hutongs towards the Forbidden City on a route inspired by the Qing-era officials' commute to court. A pedal rickshaw is always available if anyone wants a break. We spend a morning at the Temple of Heaven among residents walking and exercising, learn a few Mandarin phrases to try out at a local market, and share a classic roast-duck dinner. Then we leave the city for the Great Wall near Gubeikou, with time to walk, pause and take in the landscape. We spend the night in a courtyard-style guesthouse, make dumplings together and begin the next morning with a gentle Tai Chi session. Back in Beijing, a Chinese massage is the right reward.

Chapter two is Sichuan, where the pace slows. After a flight to Chengdu, we explore contemporary life around Taikoo Li and the older Daci Temple, then choose one evening experience that suits the group: Sichuan opera, mahjong in a teahouse or a cooking lesson. We meet the giant pandas early, when they are most active, and visit Dujiangyan, an ancient water-control system still part of local life. Two unhurried nights near Qingcheng Mountain follow, with forest paths, Taoist heritage and tea. Before leaving Sichuan, you try a small part of a living craft, Shu embroidery or lacquer and mother-of-pearl, with a maker who practises it every day.

Chapter three is Chongqing. We travel by high-speed train to this vertical city of hills, stairways, cable cars and river crossings, and discover it at human scale, with seated breaks along the way. One evening brings a private cultural performance in an atmospheric heritage setting. On the last full day we explore the city's neighbourhoods and markets, relax in a hot spring and share a farewell dinner. The journey ends in Chongqing on Saturday 24 April.

Along the way you stay in comfortable, well-located hotels with local character, and daily breakfast is always included. The activity level is moderate, with some steps and slopes, and the Great Wall and Qingcheng walks can be shortened to suit the group.