Luxury Asia Rail Journey

HO CHI MINH CITY – HOI AN – NINH BINH – HA LONG BAY – HANOI – GUILIN – GUANGZHOU – JINGDEZHEN – WUYI MOUNTAINS – SHANGHAI

Day 1: Arrive in Ho Chi Minh City – Luxury Stay at Park Hyatt & Welcome Dinner

Upon arrival in Ho Chi Minh City, you'll be met and transferred to the luxurious five-star Park Hyatt, where comfort and elegance await. After time to unwind, join your fellow travellers for a Welcome Reception Dinner — the perfect introduction to Vietnam's rich culinary heritage and an opportunity to connect with new companions.

Day 2: Cu Chi Tunnels Excursion & Ho Chi Minh City Colonial Landmarks Tour

Begin your day in Ho Chi Minh City with a leisurely morning at your luxurious hotel, or choose an optional excursion to the historic Cu Chi Tunnels by private speedboat (08:30–12:30). Glide along the Saigon River into the countryside before exploring this remarkable underground network once used by Viet Cong fighters. A delicious lunch is served en route as you return to the city.

In the afternoon, uncover Ho Chi Minh City's complex history on a guided tour of its iconic landmarks, from the red-brick Notre Dame Cathedral and French colonial Central Post Office to the former Presidential Palace and the powerful War Remnants Museum. Pause for street-side coffee as your guide shares a brief Vietnamese language lesson and a window into daily life.

As evening descends, soak up the lively atmosphere of Nguyen Hue Walking Street, bustling with music, lights, and market stalls. For a memorable cultural experience, consider attending the A O Show at the Saigon Opera House — a dynamic fusion of acrobatics, dance, and traditional Vietnamese storytelling.

Day 3: Board the Vietnam Express – Luxury Train Journey Begins

Enjoy a leisurely morning in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City, beginning with a sumptuous breakfast at the Park Hyatt. Take time to relax or explore at your own pace — perhaps a gentle stroll along the city's bustling boulevards, where the energy of daily life unfolds in every direction.

By midday, step aboard the Vietnam Express and settle into your private carriage as the train begins its elegant journey north toward Hoi An. Savour a gourmet lunch on board while the landscape transforms outside your window — a serene afternoon of refined comfort, attentive service, and sweeping views of rice fields, forested hills, and timeless village life.

Day 4: Hoi An Walking Tour or My Son UNESCO Temples – Cultural Excursions from Da Nang

Step off the Vietnam Express in Da Nang and prepare to immerse yourself in the cultural heart of central Vietnam with a choice of two exceptional excursions.

Your first option leads to the enchanting riverside town of Hoi An, a UNESCO World Heritage Site steeped in centuries of cross-cultural exchange. Once a bustling port known as 'Faifo,' Hoi An's cobbled streets and glowing lanterns invite exploration. On a guided walking tour, uncover a harmonious blend of Chinese temples, Japanese merchant houses, and French colonial facades — culminating at the iconic Japanese Covered Bridge. Wander through the vibrant local market, renowned for silk and bespoke tailoring, before drifting along the Thu Bon River to Thanh Ha Pottery Village. Here, generations of artisans have shaped clay into timeless forms. Try your hand at the wheel in a hands-on ceramic workshop, then craft your own silk lantern — a luminous keepsake of Hoi An's enduring spirit.

Alternatively, delve into the misty forested valley of My Son, once the spiritual heart of the ancient Champa Kingdom. Among moss-draped towers and temple ruins dedicated to Shiva, you'll walk in the footsteps of kings and sages. Intricate stone carvings whisper of forgotten rituals, while a live Champa dance performance — set against the backdrop of this sacred site — brings the kingdom's rich cultural legacy to vivid life.

Day 5: Explore Ninh Binh – Hoa Lu, Sampan Cruise & Rural Jeep Safari

Arriving into the ancient heartland of Ninh Binh, you'll step into a landscape where history and natural beauty intertwine. Your journey begins at Hoa Lu, the evocative former capital of Vietnam during the 10th and 11th centuries. Surrounded by jagged limestone karsts and weathered temple ruins, this sacred site tells the story of the Dinh and Le dynasties — visionaries who shaped the earliest chapters of the Vietnamese nation.

From here, retreat to the tranquil embrace of the Emeralda Tam Coc Resort, where a leisurely lunch is served in refined surroundings, framed by the region's cinematic scenery. It's a moment of calm indulgence before the next chapter unfolds.

In the afternoon, board a traditional sampan and drift through the serene waterways of Thung Nang, where towering cliffs and hidden grottoes form a natural cathedral of stone and silence. The stillness is broken only by the gentle dip of oars as your boat glides deeper into this lush, untouched world.

Then, trade water for wheels on an open-air jeep adventure through the rural tapestry of Ninh Binh. Wind past rice paddies, water buffalo, and thatched-roof hamlets as you venture off the beaten path, capturing glimpses of daily life amid Vietnam's verdant countryside. As twilight gathers, return to the Vietnam Express, where a warm dinner and the steady rhythm of the rails await to carry you toward your next destination.

Day 6: Private Cruise in Ha Long Bay – Explore Bai Tu Long & Floating Villages

This morning, your journey continues as you depart for the otherworldly beauty of Ha Long Bay, where a private vessel awaits at the pier. Soon, you'll be gliding across jade-green waters beneath a cathedral of limestone peaks — the iconic seascape that has earned this region its UNESCO World Heritage status. But rather than following the well-trodden route, your cruise ventures deeper into the untouched tranquillity of Bai Tu Long Bay, a hidden enclave far from the main currents of tourism.

A gourmet lunch is served on deck as panoramic views unfold — a mosaic of emerald islets, sculpted cliffs, and secluded coves that seem to drift in and out of view like a dream. In the early afternoon, step into the rhythm of life on water with a visit to Vung Vieng, a traditional floating fishing village. Choose to explore its quiet canals by self-rowed kayak or opt for a gently guided journey in a rustic rowing boat, offering an intimate glimpse into a way of life shaped by the tides and generations of quiet resilience.

Later, the cruise arrives at Hon Co Island, where those drawn to exploration can venture into the Thien Canh Son cave — a hidden grotto adorned with ancient stalactites and dappled natural light. Or, simply remain on deck, drink in hand, as the bay transforms under the golden hues of the late afternoon sun.

As your vessel retraces its path through these majestic formations, the world slows. With each passing karst and flicker of light on water, you're invited into a rare stillness — a final moment of awe in one of the planet's most spellbinding natural wonders.

Day 7: Hanoi Old Quarter Tour & Transfer to Golden Eagle Silk Road Express

Begin your final day in Vietnam immersed in the vibrant pulse of Hanoi's Old Quarter, where a one-hour cyclo tour offers a window into the city's layered past and living culture. As your rickshaw weaves through the bustling lanes of the historic "36 Streets of 36 Wares," you'll witness a tapestry of daily life unfold — shopfronts bursting with silk, spices, and lacquerware; locals sipping strong coffee at tiny curbside cafés; and the unique "tube houses" that speak to centuries of adaptation and ingenuity. It's a sensory journey through the beating heart of Hanoi.

From there, step into the calm grace of the Temple of Literature, Vietnam's first national university. Founded in 1070 and dedicated to Confucius, this serene complex of courtyards, pavilions, and lotus ponds offers a contemplative contrast to the city's buzz — a place where the spirit of scholarship and tradition still lingers in the air. For those seeking deeper historical insight, an optional visit to Hoa Lo Prison — grimly nicknamed the "Hanoi Hilton" — reveals a powerful, often harrowing narrative of colonial rule and wartime resilience.

Following your morning explorations, return to the station for a final lunch served aboard the Vietnam Express. As the train glides gently north toward the Chinese border, the landscape begins to shift — a symbolic passage from one world to another. At the border, you'll transition seamlessly to the Golden Eagle Silk Road Express, where polished brass fittings, attentive stewards, and a celebratory welcome dinner mark the start of the next extraordinary chapter. The rhythm of the rails continues, but now the journey turns toward China, with new wonders waiting just ahead.

Day 8: Guilin River Cruise to Yangshuo – Karst Scenery & Cormorant Fishing Experience

Awaken to a new rhythm as the Golden Eagle Silk Road Express glides into southern China's enchanting heartland. Through your cabin window, the jagged silhouettes of limestone peaks rise from mist-veiled valleys — a living scroll painting announcing your arrival in Guilin, one of the most iconic landscapes in all of Asia.

After a leisurely breakfast in the elegant dining car, disembark for a privately chartered cruise along the legendary Lijiang River. From Guilin to Yangshuo, the river meanders through a dreamlike world of emerald waters, forested cliffs, and karst formations so fantastical they've inspired poets, painters, and emperors for centuries. As your boat drifts through this cinematic scenery, the atmosphere shifts with every bend — sometimes serene, sometimes surreal, but always unforgettable.

In the soft light of evening, step aboard an exclusive fishing vessel to witness one of China's oldest river traditions: cormorant fishing. With the sun sinking behind the peaks and lanterns flickering to life, local fishermen work in tandem with their trained birds, casting silhouettes across the water in a ritual passed down through generations. It's a hauntingly beautiful glimpse into a way of life that has resisted time's steady march.

As the day draws to a close, return to the train — your luxurious sanctuary on rails — where the journey continues, both outward across China's vast terrain, and inward, through landscapes that stir the soul.

Day 9: Guangzhou Food Tour & Historic Walking Route – Dim Sum, Shamian Island, Yongqing Fang

Today, the Golden Eagle Silk Road Express rolls into Guangzhou, the southern metropolis where centuries of trade, culture, and cuisine converge in vibrant harmony. The day begins with a sensory celebration of Cantonese gastronomy — an exquisite dim sum experience in a historic teahouse. Beneath carved wooden beams and soft lantern light, savour delicate crystal dumplings, fluffy steamed buns, and fragrant teas prepared with ceremonial care. This is no ordinary breakfast; it's a culinary ritual that reflects the soul of southern China.

With appetites satisfied, step into the timeless charm of the Shamian District, an island enclave steeped in colonial-era elegance. As you wander tree-lined boulevards shaded by banyan trees and flanked by pastel villas, you'll sense the quiet echoes of Guangzhou's international past. Continue onward to Yongqing Fang, a dynamic cultural quarter where traditional Lingnan architecture has been lovingly restored and reimagined. Here, artisan workshops, boutique galleries, and contemporary cafés thrive within 19th-century courtyards — a fusion of heritage and modernity that defines the spirit of the city.

After rejoining the Golden Eagle for a leisurely lunch, the afternoon is yours to enjoy at your own pace. Perhaps retire to the Observation Car, where floor-to-ceiling windows frame the passing countryside like a film reel of China's changing face. Or sip something chilled in the Lounge Car as the resident pianist sets a relaxed tone. Whether you seek quiet reflection or warm conversation, this leg of the journey offers space to absorb, unwind, and simply be — all while the train carries you ever closer to the next discovery.

Day 10: Jingdezhen Porcelain Museum & Hands-On Ceramic Workshop

This morning, the train pulls into Jingdezhen — a name whispered through centuries as the birthplace of the finest porcelain the world has ever known. For over a thousand years, this unassuming city in Jiangxi Province has been the crucible of Chinese ceramic mastery, producing wares so refined they once graced the courts of emperors and astonished foreign dignitaries.

Your journey into this storied craft begins at the Jingdezhen Chinese Ceramic Museum, a world-class institution housing masterpieces that span dynasties. From ethereal Song celadon bowls to luminous Ming vases, the galleries trace not just artistic evolution, but a nation's cultural heartbeat fired into clay. As expert curators guide you through kiln-fired treasures and imperial commissions, you'll gain an intimate appreciation for the alchemy of earth, fire, and vision that defines this timeless art.

Next, step into the living heart of the tradition at the Ancient Kilns & Folk Customs Expo Area. Amid the scent of woodsmoke and the rhythmic hum of the potter's wheel, artisans work as their ancestors did — shaping, carving, and glazing with quiet precision. In this atmospheric setting, you'll take part in an immersive workshop, guided by master potters who invite you not just to observe, but to create. Whether spinning a bowl, painting fine brushwork, or carving delicate patterns, the experience offers a tangible connection to centuries of dedication and artistry.

As the afternoon light fades across the rooftops of working studios and dragon kilns, return to the Golden Eagle Silk Road Express — your personal carriage waiting to whisk you toward the next chapter. With a handcrafted ceramic memento in hand and the lingering warmth of the kilns still in your senses, you depart not just with a keepsake, but with a deeper understanding of China's enduring spirit of craftsmanship.

Day 11: Bamboo Rafting & Da Hong Pao Tea Tasting in the Wuyi Mountains

This morning, the Golden Eagle Silk Road Express glides into the ethereal beauty of the Wuyi Mountains — a UNESCO World Heritage Site where mist-wrapped peaks, ancient temples, and tea-scented air offer a serene contrast to the rhythm of the rails. It is a landscape that has inspired poets and scholars for millennia, revered as much for its natural splendour as for its cultural depth.

For those who wish, the day begins with a tranquil bamboo raft experience on the Jiuqu River. As you float gently along its winding course, cradled by steep cliffs and dense forest, the silence is broken only by birdsong and the soft ripple of water. The river's name — "Nine Bends" — tells of its slow, contemplative journey, and your own pace will match it. It's a meditative glide through scenery so perfectly composed, it might have been painted by hand.

In the afternoon, delve into a legacy as rich and refined as the land itself: Wuyi's legendary oolong tea culture. At a historic tea estate nestled in the mountain folds, you'll explore the meticulous craft behind one of China's most prized varietals — Da Hong Pao, the "Big Red Robe." Walk the terraced slopes where tea plants cling to rocky soil, then step into a traditional tasting room for an expertly guided session. With each steeping, subtle layers of flavour reveal the terroir, time, and touch that go into every leaf.

As the sun begins its descent, return to the train for a special farewell dinner — a final celebration of the shared journey, the friendships forged, and the memories steeped in culture, comfort, and discovery. Tonight, the Golden Eagle rolls toward its final destination, but the magic of Wuyi lingers, gently and deeply, like the last notes of a well-brewed cup.

Day 12: Shanghai Tower Afternoon Tea & Private Huangpu River Yacht Cruise

Today, the Golden Eagle Silk Road Express completes its majestic journey as you arrive in Shanghai — a city where dynastic tradition and futuristic ambition coexist in dazzling harmony. After a leisurely morning aboard, watching the outskirts of China's most dynamic metropolis unfurl beyond your window, you'll disembark into a world of soaring skylines and high-octane elegance.

Your Shanghai experience begins, fittingly, at its highest point: the awe-inspiring Shanghai Tower, China's tallest building and the second tallest in the world. Rising in a graceful twist to 632 metres, it is a beacon of modern engineering and architectural poise. On the 120th floor, you'll be welcomed into the ethereal J Hotel Lounge, where floor-to-ceiling windows offer an unrivalled panorama across the city's glittering skyline. Here, a refined afternoon tea awaits — a delicate fusion of East and West, with pastries infused with lychee, jasmine, and osmanthus, paired with rare artisan teas. Above the clouds, time slows. This is not just a view, but a moment suspended between earth and sky.

As the day melts into dusk, the experience continues in true Shanghai style — aboard a luxurious private yacht cruising the Huangpu River. As you drift past the glowing colonial façades of the Bund and the hyper-modern towers of Pudong, the city lights shimmer across the water in a breathtaking symphony of reflection and motion. A bespoke dinner is served on board, blending Shanghainese culinary artistry with international flair, accompanied by fine wines and the soft hum of the city beyond.

This unforgettable evening — tea among the stars, dinner upon the river — is a fitting prelude to your final chapter. In a city that never stands still, you've been gifted a moment of stillness, beauty, and perspective.

Day 13: Explore Zhujiajiao Water Town or Join a Private Shanghai Cooking Experience

On your final full day in China, the pace slows — inviting you to savour the experience, explore deeper, and reflect on the journey. Today offers two distinct and equally immersive paths, each a celebration of heritage, artistry, and quiet discovery.

For those drawn to the romance of old-world China, a visit to Zhujiajiao awaits — a beautifully preserved water town just beyond Shanghai's urban edge, often called the "Venice of the East." With its 1,700-year history, stone bridges, narrow canals, and willow-lined walkways, Zhujiajiao feels like a step back in time. Glide along its peaceful waterways in a traditional wooden sculling boat, passing beneath arched bridges and alongside Ming and Qing dynasty homes that whisper stories of merchants and scholars. Wander cobbled streets lined with teahouses, apothecaries, and silk shops, and cross the elegant Fangsheng Bridge, one of the oldest and most photogenic in the region. It's a journey not only into the past, but into the poetic rhythm of waterborne life that once defined much of southern China.

Alternatively, for a more hands-on encounter with local culture, join a Shanghai cooking class led by a skilled local chef. Begin with a visit to a bustling wet market, where vibrant stalls overflow with regional produce, spices, and fresh ingredients — from plump dumplings to hand-pulled noodles. Under the chef's guidance, return to a private kitchen to craft some of the city's iconic dishes, such as xiaolongbao (soup dumplings) or shēng jiān bāo (crispy pan-fried buns). With each fold, stir, and sizzle, you gain a delicious new understanding of Shanghai's culinary soul — and, of course, you'll enjoy your creations in an elegant, convivial setting.

The afternoon is yours to enjoy at leisure. Perhaps indulge in a spa treatment at your five-star hotel, or venture into Shanghai's famed shopping streets — the bustling Nanjing Road or the chic boutiques of the French Concession.

As evening falls, gather one final time for a Farewell Dinner, a celebratory conclusion to a journey rich in connection, culture, and comfort. Stories are shared, toasts are made, and as the city lights flicker beyond the windows, you'll realise — this has been far more than a trip. It's been a passage through the very heart of Asia.

Day 14: Private Transfers from Shanghai – End of Your Luxury Asia Rail Journey

As the sun rises over Shanghai, your extraordinary journey comes gently to a close. After a final leisurely breakfast, private transfers await to escort you to the airport. Whether you're bound for home or onward adventures, the bustle of travel feels somehow softer now — tempered by the quiet depth of the experiences behind you.

You leave with more than photographs. You carry the rhythm of the rails, the fragrance of temple incense, the echo of bamboo rafts drifting through mist, and the warmth of shared laughter around dining car tables. From the tropical vibrancy of Vietnam to the imperial elegance of China, this has been a journey that transcended geography — a rare passage through history, culture, cuisine, and soul.

As you bid farewell to Asia's ancient rhythms and modern marvels, know that the memories made — from sampan rides and silk lanterns to tea fields and porcelain workshops — are yours to revisit anytime. A true voyage of a lifetime, now written into your own story.

Safe travels — and until next time, the tracks remain.