Classic China Discovery

Fly into Hong Kong International Airport, meet your Viking Representative and transfer to your ship. Shenzhen is the gateway to Hong Kong, a dynamic metropolis that blends its ancient Chinese heritage with global influences. Its skyline boasts towering skyscrapers set against a backdrop of lush mountains. A former British colony, Hong Kong has evolved into a global financial center. Victoria Harbour symbolizes this economic prowess, with the nightly Symphony of Lights illuminating the harbor's vibrancy. Bustling markets exude a local flair, while the fusion of Cantonese cuisine, Michelin-starred restaurants and delicious street food add to the city's cultural allure.

Nicknamed China's 'Silicon Valley,' the modern metropolis of Shenzhen is a symbol of the country's rapid economic growth and reform. Since the late 1970s, Shenzhen has transformed from a small fishing village into a global technological and financial hub. Today, it is home to numerous tech giants, startups and research institutions, making it a center for innovation, electronics manufacturing and the global technology industry. A diverse cityscape features futuristic skyscrapers, while its proximity to bustling Hong Kong imparts an international flavor to the city.

The South China Sea has been one of the world's major trade routes for centuries. Today, one-third of the world's maritime shipping passes through its waters, which are also rich fishing grounds and potential energy resources. Renew your body, mind and spirit in our Scandinavian-inspired Spa, a Nordic sanctuary of holistic wellness, today while at sea. Whether you unwind in the Sauna, refresh in the Snow Grotto or take a dip in the Thermal Pool, you will feel recharged and revitalized.

Xiamen straddles the islands at the mouth of the Jiulong River and boasts picturesque colonial architecture. One of China's most fascinating cities, it is graced by salty sea breezes, rocky promontories and gleaming glass towers. Xiamen has been largely influenced by the Hoklo people. Han Chinese whose ancestors hail from this Fujian province, they continue to hand down their own unique dialect and cultural traditions. The city's Nanputuo Temple complex, a sacred Buddhist temple, is one of China's most revered and attracts pilgrims from all corners of the nation.

Pingtan is located off the southern tip of Fuzhou, across the strait from Taiwan. The largest island in the Fujian province and the fifth-largest China, it straddles the boundary between the East and South China Seas. Known as the 'Maldives of China,' Pingtan is renowned for its beautiful coastal scenery, including pristine beaches, clear waters and numerous undersea reefs. Offshore, various weathered granite sea stacks dot the coast, the product of eons of erosion by the sea. Long a center for fishing, Pingtan is now a popular destination during the summer months.

Dongtou is a district in the southern Zhejiang province, the largest of a 168-island archipelago in the East China Sea. It has a strong fishing tradition, and many of its coastal villages are home to colorful fishing boats anchored offshore. The picturesque district is also renowned for its peculiar rock formations; the result of years of erosion by the elements, they provide an otherworldly and captivating backdrop. The district's most iconic landmark is Wanghai Temple, perched atop a steep promontory overlooking the bay and brimming with more than 1,500 years of history.

Zhoushan is located on the largest island in its namesake archipelago, which encompasses nearly 1,400 islands and more than 3,000 reefs. The isles are steeped in spiritual traditions, influenced by Buddhism, Taoism, Confucianism and folk beliefs. One of its most famous attractions is Mount Putuo, one of Buddhism's four sacred mountains. Dedicated to Guanyin, the goddess of mercy, it has many temples, statues and caves related to her worship. The island is also known for its natural beauty, such as the Chaoyin Cave, where the sound of the waves resembles Buddhist chants.

The East China Sea is a vital maritime route for international trade and fishing, connecting China, Japan and South Korea. Its history is entwined with regional cultural exchange, shaping the area's heritage and identity. As you sail today, savor a range of international cuisine on board. Choose from a variety of international flavors at the World Café, enjoy al fresco dining on the Aquavit Terrace, or regional specialties in The Restaurant.

China's largest city and one of the world's most important ports, Shanghai began as a fishing village 5,000 years ago. Long a draw for people from around the world, it has a history of being an open-minded city with a freewheeling character. Today, it is a modern metropolis and center of finance that orbits around its famous Bund, the elegant riverfront promenade overlooked by colonial-era banks and trading houses. Shanghai's old quarter retains the narrow lanes and street markets of yore. The renowned Shanghai Museum contains a wonderful collection of ancient Chinese art.

Straddling the west bank of Huangpu River, Shanghai's historic Bund provides sweeping views of the city's past and future. Elegant colonial architecture overlooks the famous walkway, from the neo-Renaissance Union Building to the grand Customs House. On the river's opposite bank, the skyline of Lujiazui in the Pudong District points Shanghai toward tomorrow. The Oriental Pearl Tower boasts a space-age design with its pair of orbs. Other skyscrapers, including the pagoda-like Jin Mao Tower and the Shanghai World Financial Center, are among the world's tallest buildings.

Traverse the waters of the historic Yellow Sea, once the stage for the Russo-Japanese War of 1904–1905, during which both empires vied for dominance in the region. Enjoy the amenities of your ship as you sail. Perhaps take a breath of fresh air on a brisk walk around the Promenade or begin your day with a workout in the well-equipped Fitness Center.

Qingdao enjoys clear air, sweeping sea views and European influences. Once a colony of both Germany and Japan, Qingdao straddles the waters of Jiaozhou Bay. With its proximity to Korea and Japan, it is also one of China's most important trade centers. The city's German and Japanese structures have been preserved in Ba Da Guan, or 'Eight Great Passes,' a district of grand mansions whose streets are named for ancient military fortresses. European half-timbered houses also dot the streets of Qingdao and Germany's beer-brewing tradition dates to the days of Kaiser Wilhelm II.

The influential culinary scene of Qingdao draws heavily from the city's coastal location and longstanding ties to the sea. Specializing in the regional Jiaodong style of traditional Shandong cuisine, local chefs create a variety of seafood dishes that feature an abundance of fresh fish, prawns, crabs and other marine delicacies. This enticing fare is renowned for its light aromas and full flavors, and pairs well with a refreshing glass of Tsingtao beer. This iconic local brewery was established in 1903 and remains an enduring legacy of the Qingdao's German settlers.

Dalian enjoys a privileged stature as one of China's most livable cities. Its picturesque setting and numerous parks help to create a friendly, welcoming atmosphere. Throughout its long history, several foreign nations called it their own, thanks to its strategic position on the Liaodong Peninsula on Korea Bay. The British and Japanese each controlled the port at various points, and Russia built a port city here at the turn of the 20th century due to the bay's ice-free waters. Today, a relaxed manner prevails in this city of modern skyscrapers and colonial gems.

The bustling port city of Tianjin is the gateway to the Chinese capital of Beijing. The city's strategic location along the Grand Canal facilitated its rise as a commercial hub, attracting traders from across the globe for centuries. Today, it handles a large portion of the region's maritime commerce. Tianjin's cuisine reflects its port heritage, emphasizing seafood and dishes that are celebrated for their freshness, saltiness and soft yet crispy textures. The colorful street food scene serves a range of local favorites, such as 'Eight Great Bowls' and 'Four Great Stews.'

Xian's historical, cultural and architectural importance extends beyond its connection to the fabled Silk Road and the famous Terra Cotta Warriors. This rich heritage is on display at the Shaanxi History Museum, home to a treasure trove of more than 370,000 valuable Chinese relics and artifacts. The city's religious diversity can be seen at the monumental Giant Wild Goose Pagoda, an iconic Buddhist shrine and pilgrimage destination, and the 14th-century Great Mosque, an architectural masterpiece that combines Chinese and Islamic design elements.

After breakfast, check out of your hotel in Xian and transfer to the airport for your flight.

Upon arrival, you will be met by your Viking Representative. Beijing dates back more than 3,000 years and was a grand imperial capital from the 10th century until it became the capital of the new Communist nation in 1949. It is inarguably China's historic and cultural center, a massive repository where modern life thrives amid the reverential tone of enormous monuments to the past, from the sprawling Forbidden City to the serpentine Great Wall. Beijing also exudes an intimate side, found among the quiet warrens of hutongs. These tidy residential pockets recall the Peking of old and bring visitors back to China at its most authentic.

This evening, enjoy time at your leisure at your hotel.

The arts thrive in Beijing, embracing traditions that date back centuries. Peking Opera is considered one of the highest expressions of Chinese culture, and critical to any performance are the music and lyrics. More than 140 museums further celebrate Beijing's and China's arts and history, from the National Art Museum of China to the Beijing Museum of Natural History. The city is also the gateway to several sections of the ancient Great Wall, including the stunning ramparts that snake their way over the steep hills of Huangyaguan and the well-preserved bulwarks at Badaling.

Beijing is a dynamic and captivating metropolis, rich in diversity and history. Its position as an imperial capital and its role as a political, economic and educational center have attracted people from across China and Asia for centuries. Predominantly Han Chinese, the city is also home to a substantial population of Hui Muslims, Manchu, Mongol, Korean and other ethnic minorities. These groups have with them their traditions, languages and cuisines, creating a vibrant fusion of cultures that permeates the city, from its historic hutongs to modern skyscrapers.

Beijing is renowned for its diverse and delicious cuisine, its culinary traditions a delicious mix of Chinese flavors and regional influences. Some iconic dishes include Peking duck and Mongolian hot pot, as well as jianbing (savory crepes), and zhajiangmian (noodles with soybean paste). Beijing's food scene also offers a wide range of street food, from grilled skewers to traditional snacks like baozi (steamed buns). The city's historic hutongs are a great place to explore authentic culinary experiences, with local eateries serving up mouthwatering regional specialties. After breakfast, check out of your hotel and journey home.