China tour but starting from HK or within China

EdGasket

Any recommendations for a China tour that doesn't include getting there (I get discounted flights). I could start from Hong Kong/Schenzhen ideally or somewhere with a big airport like Shanghai. Looking for about a week's tour with everything sorted so i just have to turn up at the start and not too expensive; don't mind just seeing the countryside or Yangste river cruise or something like that. Looking to go early November.

Any advice on getting the visa for China would also be appreciated. Do I need to know the exact travel dates and where I would be staying to get the visa?

I was also looking at Japan but ad-hoc accomodation in Kyoto seems expensive.

Kernow666

try asking on a dedicated travel sight like Trip Advisor get better and quicker answers

Ballard

I took an overnight train from Guangzhou (the other side of the border to HK) to Guilin. From there you can take a cruise along the beautiful River Li to Yangshuo.

Hangzhou is another place that I enjoyed. It's a huge city but has a lovely lake and mountains to enjoy. A train from there to Shanghai only takes a couple of hours. I flew between Guilin & Hangzhou.

Shanghai itself was quite enjoyable too.

Chinese visas are reportedly very expensive nowadays. They were merely expensive when I went.

These are just a couple of ideas which might or not be your cup of (green) tea.

If you choose Japan then Kyoto is lovely. I stayed in Capsule Ryokan which I don't recall being that expensive and was very comfortable. We stayed in a standard (albeit cramped) room.

You could also consider South Korea of you decide not to try your other suggestions. Seoul is interesting and it's easy to get around and see the country even in a week.

Edit: I should point out that I travelled independently in China without issue at all. I'm sure that there are tour companies if you'd prefer to go that route.

paulfarrugia

Ballard is spot on. The river boat from Guilin to Yangshuo is amazing. We spent 5 weeks in China and loved Yangshuo. You can check our post below on it. We stayed at an amazing guest house called The GIggling Tree which is just outside the main town. It is owned by a dutch couple and has amazing views and food. Have a great trip!

http://globalhelpswap.com/yangshuo-china/