China's Grand Tapestry: Ancient Wonders & Natural Marvels
A Journey Through Modern Marvels and Ancient Fortresses
This 9-day itinerary offers a fascinating contrast between Hong Kong's vibrant urban landscape and the ancient earthen castles of the Hakka people, with Xiamen serving as the perfect coastal gateway to these remarkable UNESCO World Heritage sites.
Days 1-3: Hong Kong - The Dynamic Metropolis
Day 1: Copenhagen to Hong Kong
Begin your journey from Copenhagen with convenient connecting flights through major European hubs. Options include transit via Moscow with Russian Airlines (14.5 hours total), Helsinki with Finnair (15.5 hours total), or Amsterdam with Scandinavia Airlines and Cathay Pacific (16 hours total). All three options operate daily based on current schedules.
Day 2: Hong Kong Arrival & Acclimatization
Upon arrival at Hong Kong International Airport, our representative will greet you and transfer you to the 3-star BP International Hotel. Located conveniently in downtown Kowloon, the hotel provides an excellent base for exploring. The remainder of the day is free for you to recover from your journey and begin exploring the local neighborhood at your leisure.
Day 3: Hong Kong Island Exploration
After breakfast, your guide will accompany you to experience the iconic Peak Tram ascending to Victoria Peak. Marvel at the optical illusion created by the steep ascent and enjoy panoramic views of Victoria Harbour and the Kowloon Peninsula from Hong Kong's highest point.
The afternoon includes visits to: - Repulse Bay: Hong Kong's most famous beach with golden sands - Aberdeen: Traditional fishing community where you can optionally take a harbor tour on a fishing boat (CNY 40-50 per person, payable locally) - Stanley Market: Bustling shopping area offering souvenirs, clothing, and antiques
Meals: Breakfast only - we recommend a substantial hotel breakfast and carrying snacks
Days 4-6: Xiamen & The Hakka Earth Towers
Day 4: Hong Kong to Xiamen Transition
The morning offers free time for last-minute exploration in Hong Kong. We recommend visiting Temple Street via the MTR to Yau Ma Tei Station (Exit C) for shopping and local cuisine. In the afternoon, take the high-speed train from Hong Kong West Kowloon Railway Station to the coastal city of Xiamen. Upon arrival, transfer to the 3-star Xin An Hotel with an orientation to the city en route.
Day 5: Earth Towers of Nanjing & Yongding
Today's journey takes you to the remarkable Hakka Earth Towers (Tulou) in Nanjing and Yongding counties. These unique circular earthen structures, built since the Song Dynasty, served as fortified communal residences for Hakka families.
Highlights include: - Tianluo Earth Towers: Complex featuring square, circular, and oval structures - Yuchang Earth Tower: China's oldest (1368) and largest earth tower with leaning pillars - Zhencheng and Chengqi Earth Towers: Excellent examples of Yongding architecture
Accommodation: Authentic earth tower home-stay experience (basic facilities, shared bathrooms)
Day 6: Earth Tower Cultural Immersion
Breakfast at a local Chinese restaurant near the earth towers. Morning exploration includes the Earth Tower Cultural Village and Nanxi Earth Towers, showcasing triangular, square, hexagonal, and octagonal structures. Return to Xiamen in the afternoon for overnight stay at Xin An Hotel.
Days 7-9: Xiamen Exploration & Departure
Day 7: Gulangyu Island & Historical Defense
Morning ferry to Gulangyu Island, known as "Piano Island" for its musical heritage and colonial architecture. Explore the pedestrian-only island, visit the piano museum, and sample local snacks. Afternoon visit to Hulishan Battery featuring Qing Dynasty fortifications, including the world's largest German-made cannon and smallest Portuguese cannon.
Day 8: Jimei Cultural District
Visit Jimei Study Village, founded by overseas Chinese philanthropist Tan Kah Kee in 1913. Explore this educational complex including its library, gymnasium, and concert hall. Continue to the Former Residence of Tan Kah Kee and Ao Yuan garden with its beautiful corridors, Jimei Liberation Monument, and Mr. Tan's tomb. The afternoon is free for personal exploration in Xiamen.
Day 9: Xiamen to Copenhagen Return
Your journey concludes with transfer to Xiamen Airport for your return flight to Copenhagen. Recommended routing: Xiamen Airlines MF811 to Amsterdam (12 hours), with 2-hour 40-minute layover, connecting to Royal Dutch Airlines KL1135 to Copenhagen (1 hour 20 minutes). Total travel time approximately 16 hours. Multiple other flight options are available between these cities.