Highlights of Japan and China with kids

Upon your arrival in Tokyo, your driver will welcome you at your airport’s arrival hall and get you to your hotel in a private vehicle.

One of our pro English-speaking guides shall assist you throughout your trip.

Visit Tokyo's oldest temple, the majestic 1400-year-old Senso-Ji in Asakusa, a beloved symbol of the city.

Marvel at the Tokyo Skytree, a 634-meter-tall television broadcasting tower, the tallest structure in Japan. Explore its extensive shopping complex and aquarium at the base. You'll get to visit the Skytree's 350m Tembo Deck and get sky high views of the city from above.

You'll ride Tokyo Mizube Line's comfortable water bus that will allow you to move freely in this thrilling scenic ride. You can choose between the Asakusa to Odaiba route. Some of Tokyo's top sights including the Tokyo Sky Tree, Tsukiji Bridge, Rainbow Bridge, and more!   The cruise can be done in under an hour allowing you to use your free time to explore more of either Asakusa or Odaiba.

Afterward, take a leisurely stroll at Odaiba Marine Park, offering splendid photo opportunities with attractions such as the Rainbow Bridge, a Statue of Liberty replica, and more, all overlooking Tokyo Bay.

Sanrio Puroland is a delightful indoor theme park where you can meet Hello Kitty and all your favorite Sanrio characters in an enchanting world of kawaii! Perfect for visitors of all ages, Puroland offers fun rides, interactive shows, character parades, and themed cafes with adorable Sanrio-inspired treats. Whether you're shopping for exclusive merchandise or capturing memorable photos with beloved characters, Sanrio Puroland promises a magical time for those of all ages.

Harajuku, located around Tokyo’s Harajuku Station on the Yamanote Line between Shinjuku and Shibuya, is the heart of Japan’s vibrant street fashion and 'kawaii' culture. You can find all kinds of  eclectic shops, and trendy cafes here for you to shop at.

You'll then board a Shinkansen (Bullet Train) to Kyoto (approx. 2hrs 21min). Upon your arrival, you'll be able to check in on your own since the hotel is close by.

Today, you'll board a Bullet Train to Osaka (2.5 hrs). Upon your arrival, you'll get to relax and unwind at your hotel, or explore the city on your own.

In Fushimi ward of Kyoto, embark on a captivating journey that traces its history back to the 8th century with a visit to Fushimi Inari Taisha, the esteemed headquarters of approximately 30,000 Inari shrines scattered across the country.

Visit Nara Park, a vast green space in central Nara, where you can encounter iconic attractions like Todaiji, Kasuga Taisha, Kofukuji, and the Nara National Museum. Enjoy the unique experience of feeding crackers to some of the 1,000 free roaming deer, and marvel at their surprisingly tame yet captivating presence in the park.

Check out Todai-ji Temple, a monumental structure with a significant role in Japanese history. Pass through the imposing Nandaimon (Great Southern Gate), guarded by fierce Nio figures sculpted by renowned artists Unkei and Kaikei. The Daibutsuden (Great Buddha Hall), among the world's largest wooden structures, showcases impressive scale and architecture.

Discover the iconic Kasuga Taisha Shrine, a treasured site in Nara Park. Dedicated to the deity responsible for the protection of the city, the shrine is famous not only for its spiritual significance but also for its stunning architecture. Wander through pathways lined with thousands of stone and bronze lanterns, which create a magical atmosphere during the Lantern Festivals held each February and August.

Today you'll visit the historic Osaka Castle Park, where you can get a glimpse into what life was life as a member of the shogunate.

Discover the wonders of Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan in the Tempozan Harbor Village, Osaka's bay area. This stunning aquarium showcases Pacific Rim marine life across multiple tanks, each dedicated to a unique region. The centerpiece—a massive, nine-meter-deep tank representing the Pacific Ocean—houses a majestic whale shark, the aquarium’s star attraction. Begin your journey on the 8th floor and wind your way down, enjoying diverse views of marine life from various depths along the way.

Check out the acclaimed art collective teamLab Tokyo's "Digitized Nature" art installation set inside a sprawling garden that aims to recreate the nature into living art using digital technology that leaves the environment untouched in order to represent an idealized harmony between both. The artworks are intertwined with the garden's ecosystem, adapting to changes in wildlife, weather, and visitors' presence.

Privatr transfer service between Osaka and KIX airport.

Today you will fly to Chengdu. On arrival, your private guide will be ready to welcome you at the arrival hall, and transfer to your hotel with a private car and driver. Your guide will help you with luggage and hotel check-in, and ensure your arrival is worry-free.

Begin your day with a visit to the renowned Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, a sanctuary dedicated to the conservation and research of China's beloved national treasure. Marvel at the adorable pandas as they frolic and feed in their natural habitat, and gain insight into the efforts to protect these endangered species. From playful cubs to majestic adults, witness the enchanting beauty of these gentle giants up close.

Next, delve into the serene ambiance of Wenshu Temple, a sacred Buddhist site steeped in centuries of history and spirituality. Explore the intricately carved halls, tranquil courtyards, and lush gardens adorned with pagodas and ancient relics. Take a moment for quiet reflection amidst the fragrance of burning incense and the rhythmic chants of monks, experiencing the timeless essence of Buddhist practice.

Continue your journey through the bustling streets of Jinli Old Street, a lively thoroughfare brimming with traditional Sichuanese architecture, local crafts, and delectable street food. Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere as you browse through the quaint shops, sample authentic snacks, and marvel at the colorful displays of folk art and cultural performances.

Conclude your day with a stroll along the charming lanes of Kuanzhai Alley, where ancient charm meets modern elegance in the heart of Chengdu. Admire the well-preserved Qing Dynasty architecture, stylish boutiques, and trendy cafes lining the alleyways, offering a delightful blend of old-world charm and contemporary chic.

Enjoy your free time until your guide comes and escort you to the high-speed train station.

Today you will arrive in Chongqing by high-speed train station. On arrival, your private guide will be ready to welcome you at the arrival hall, and transfer to your hotel with a private car and driver. Your guide will help you with luggage and hotel check-in, and ensure your arrival is worry-free.

Victoria Cruise Lines Downstream Day 1: Embark on an unforgettable journey from Chongqing! Step aboard at the designated dock as we set sail, kicking off with a thrilling safety briefing. Get ready to delve into the heart of China's enchanting landscapes.

Please note: The itinerary is for reference only and may vary slightly depending on the specific ship. Final arrangements are subject to actual conditions.

Excludes a mandatory tip, approximately 150 RMB per person, to be paid on board.

Notes: If you are traveling alone, you will be automatically arranged to share a room with random fellow travelers of the same gender. If you prefer to have a private room for yourself, please check with your travel advisor for the single room supplement fee.

Tips:Cruise itineraries are based on Victoria Cruise Lines schedules. The specific vessel and cruise operator may vary depending on daily availability. Final arrangements will be confirmed at the time of booking.

Take a 1.5-hour bullet train from Chengdu to Chongqing.

Victoria Cruise Lines Downstream Day 2: Brace yourself for an adventure-packed day! Rise early for a delightful cup of coffee or tea as we approach the mystical Fengdu "ShuangGui Mt. Explore this legendary site, where ancient tales and stunning views await. Then, join us for the Captain's Welcome Reception, where camaraderie and cuisine unite for an unforgettable evening on the river.

Additional optional shore excursions (river conditions permitting) to Fengdu's “Ghost City” (daytime), and the elaborate Fengyan Sanguo “Romance of the Three Kingdoms” show (evening).

Victoria Cruise Lines Downstream Day 3: Enter the Three Gorges/“Small Gorges” – Enter the Three Gorges, one of nature's most extraordinary sculptures.  

Today you will pass through the first two—Qutang Gorge and Wu Gorge.  Qutang Gorge is the shortest (5 miles), narrowest (500 feet), and most dramatic.  The 25-mile long Wu Gorge is known for its quiet beauty, forest-covered mountains, and cliffs so sheer that the sun barely penetrates the precipices.  Transfer to another vessel for a relaxing excursion through the attractive gorges of Goddess Stream.  Depending on river conditions, an alternate excursion may be substituted to the gorges of Shennong Stream.  Enter Xiling Gorge, the longest (41 miles), and deepest of the Three Gorges. 

Additional optional shore excursion (available in the morning, river conditions permitting) to White Emperor City an ancient city overlooking the western end of Qutang Gorge.

Additional optional shore excursion (available in the morning) to Peak of the Three Gorges

Victoria Cruise Lines Downstream Day 4: Three Gorges Dam/Yichang – Disembark this morning and take a tour of the Three Gorges Dam, which spans the Yangtze River at Sandouping in Xiling Gorge.  It is the world’s largest power station.

An additional optional shore excursion is also available (preceding the Three Gorges Dam tour) through the recently- completed unique ship lock with a ship lift, the world's largest.  After morning sightseeing, Victoria Cruise Lines will provide a motor coach transfer to nearby Yichang. 

Additional optional shore excursion to hometown of Qu Yuan.

After visiting the Three Gorges Dam, the driver and guide will take you to the high-speed rail station in Yichang, where you can board the high-speed train to your next destination.

Today you will arrive in Shanghai by high-speed train station. On arrival, your private guide will be ready to welcome you at the arrival hall, and transfer to your hotel with a private car and driver. Your guide will help you with luggage and hotel check-in, and ensure your arrival is worry-free.

Take a 6.5-hour bullet train from Yichang to Shanghai.

Your day begins at Yuyuan Garden, a classical Chinese garden renowned for its exquisite landscaping and tranquil pavilions. Next, visit the vibrant City God Temple, where you can experience local religious culture and bustling market life. Wander through the city's historic alleyways (nongtang) to glimpse authentic Shanghai daily life. Head to The Bund, the city’s iconic waterfront, offering panoramic views of colonial architecture and the modern skyline. Enjoy a walk on the lively Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street, famous for its shopping and urban energy. After lunch at a local restaurant, discover the stylish Xintiandi district, where traditional shikumen houses blend with trendy shops and cafes. Conclude your tour at the Shanghai Museum East, home to extensive collections of Chinese art and artifacts.

Enjoy your free time until your guide comes and escort you to the airport for your onward flight.