Across China, in style

The most memorable journeys through China are defined by contrast. Imperial capitals give way to futuristic skylines, and centuries-old gardens offer quiet sanctuary within the rhythm of the city. A morning may be spent exploring winding lanes of an historic enclave, followed by an evening in a leading modern metropolis.

These contrasts are what make China so compelling. It resists easy definition, with each region revealing its own distinct identity. Beyond the headline sights lies a remarkable breadth of ancient traditions, fast-evolving cities and natural landscapes – and exploring by private jet is the best way to take in this diversity.

Hong Kong

Framed by dramatic mountain peaks and one of the world’s most spectacular natural harbours, Hong Kong is an urban epicentre of remarkable energy and cultural depth. Its vibrant neighbourhoods, world-class museums and exciting culinary scene make it one of Asia’s most compelling destinations.

Private sessions with master artisans, exclusive gallery access and bespoke masterclasses with Michelin-starred chefs provide deeper insight into Hong Kong’s creative community, while sunset junk cruises and helicopter flights over Victoria Harbour reveal the city from different perspectives.

Stay: Design-led waterfront luxury at Rosewood Hong Kong combines harbour views, excellent dining and restorative wellness spa experiences.

Beijing

As China’s capital for much of the past seven centuries, Beijing combines imperial scale with contemporary energy. Landmarks such as the Forbidden City, Temple of Heaven and Summer Palace showcase its dynastic ambition, while the hutongs (narrow alleys and lanes formed by traditional courtyard houses) reveal its more intimate side.

Experiences can be elevated through private access, such as dawn hikes on the less visited sections of the Great Wall and specialist-led museum tours. Alongside the landmarks, Beijing’s avant-garde art districts and its progressive culinary scene drive the city’s contemporary renaissance.

Stay: The Peninsula Beijing, for palatial suites in the heart of the capital, or Mandarin Oriental Wangfujing, for views across the Forbidden City.

Xi’an

For over a millennium, Xi’an has been a major starting point of the Silk Road. Today, its walls, temples and Muslim Quarter reflect that rich legacy, while the Terracotta Army remains one of the world’s most significant archaeological discoveries.

A bespoke early-access visit, accompanied by a dedicated archaeologist, offers a compelling way to view the life-size figures, followed by a tour of Xi’an’s lesserknown side, where local artisans craft calligraphy brushes, inkstones and woodblock prints.

Stay: Choose The Ritz-Carlton for city views and an elegant spa, or Sofitel Legend People’s Grand Hotel Xi’an, celebrated for its heritage and French-inspired style.

Shanghai

Shanghai announces itself through its skyline, best seen across the Huangpu River, where Pudong’s soaring towers rise opposite the grand early 20th-century façades of the Bund, an historic waterfront district. Together, they tell the story of a trading port transformed into one of the world’s great financial centres.

Today, fashion, art and design are woven into everyday life, from Plaza 66 and Nanjing West Road to the galleries, boutiques and leafy streets of the Former French Concession. The dining scene is equally dynamic, blending celebrated local cuisine with international influences and a strong concentration of Michelin-recognised restaurants.

Stay: The leading addresses include The Peninsula Shanghai, with views across the Bund, or Capella Shanghai, housed in restored 1930s shikumen townhouses in the Former French Concession.

Hangzhou

West Lake lies at the heart of Hangzhou, framed by wooded hills, pagodas, classical gardens and stone bridges linking a scattering of small islands. Explore its tranquil waters by traditional wooden boat before enjoying a personalised Longjing tasting session led by a tea master.

Beyond the lake, tea terraces ripple across the hillsides, while secluded spa retreats blend into bamboo forests, where treatment rooms are accompanied by birdsong and the gentle sound of water.

Stay: Amanfayun is a sanctuary nestled amid tea plantations and bamboo groves, with a spa rooted in traditional Chinese wellness.

Chengdu

Chengdu moves at a gentler tempo than many of China’s major cities, with teahouses and leafy parks at the heart of daily life. Home to the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, it is a great culinary destination where Sichuan cuisine ranges from sophisticated tasting menus to long-established local eateries.

Its contemporary side is reflected in Taikoo Li, where striking architecture and luxury boutiques sit alongside traditional courtyards. Beyond the city, Mount Qingcheng, the Leshan Giant Buddha and Mount Emei underscore Sichuan’s rich spiritual and natural heritage.

Stay: Six Senses Qing Cheng Mountain, located at the gateway to the Qingcheng Mountains, offers nature-led design, an acclaimed spa and an organic farm.

Chongqing and Yangtze

At the confluence of the Yangtze and Jialing rivers, Chongqing rises across steep hillsides in a striking landscape of high-rises, bridges and multi-level roads. Once China’s wartime capital, it is also a principal gateway to the Three Gorges.

A Yangtze River cruise offers a measured way to experience the region, with spacious balcony suites, refined dining and excursions through the dramatic Qutang, Wu and Xiling Gorges, as well as to the Three Gorges Dam near Yichang.

Stay: InterContinental Chongqing Raffles City, set within Moshe Safdie’s landmark Crystal SkyBridge high above the urban centre.

Sanya

On the southern coast of Hainan Island, Sanya presents a distinctly tropical side of China, defined by palm-fringed beaches, warm waters and a laid-back ambiance. High-end resorts focus on spacious villas, private pools and personalised wellness, while sailing, diving and island-hopping invite exploration of the South China Sea. Evenings are best spent over relaxed waterfront dining and freshly caught seafood.

Stay: Find peace at Capella Tufu Bay, with its secluded beachfront villas, lush gardens and understated luxury.

Shenzhen

Shenzhen has evolved from a small fishing town into an innovation hub. Contemporary retail, a strong dining culture and cutting-edge studios, showrooms and R&D spaces present a glimpse into the fast-moving city.

For an elevated perspective, take a helicopter tour and watch the futuristic horizon give way to the tropical coastline of the Dapeng Peninsula, where beaches and hiking trails offer a slower pace.

Stay: Try Mandarin Oriental Shenzhen for its sweeping city views and private helipad, or Conrad Shenzhen in Nanshan for design-led interiors and outlooks across Shenzhen Bay.

Guilin and Yangshuo

Defined by limestone peaks, winding rivers and fertile valleys, this area offers one of the country’s most celebrated landscapes. A privately chartered cruise along the Li River takes in dramatic karst formations, bamboo forests and quiet villages. Boutique eco-retreats and secluded riverside resorts blend into the countryside, providing an idyllic base for walking, cycling and exploring local life.

Stay: Alila Yangshuo is a reimagined 1960s sugar mill with a spa, or find seclusion at Banyan Tree Yangshuo.

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