Lines & Colors 2027

An Artistic Journey Through China’s Ancient Capitals and the Silk Road

27 August – 10 September 2027 | 15 Days | Beijing · Xi’an · Dunhuang

Discover the extraordinary world of Chinese art, where lines carry meaning, colors tell stories, and centuries of cultural exchange have shaped some of the world’s most remarkable artistic traditions.

Lines & Colors invites you on an immersive journey through China’s artistic and cultural heritage, from the ancient capital of Xi’an to the legendary Mogao Caves of Dunhuang and the vibrant traditions of Beijing.

Through specialist-led visits, hands-on artistic experiences, historic landmarks, and encounters with local craftspeople, you will discover how Chinese art connects history, philosophy, religion, craftsmanship, and everyday life.

Rather than simply observing art, you will experience the traditions behind it.

Highlights of the Journey

Xi’an — The Art of the Line

Explore one of China’s most historically significant cities, where calligraphy, sculpture, music, and artistic expression have flourished for centuries.

Visit the world-famous Terracotta Army and Xi’an’s Forest of Steles, where ancient inscriptions reveal the evolution of Chinese writing and calligraphy.

Through guided artistic sessions, discover the expressive possibilities of the brush and the importance of rhythm, structure, and movement in Chinese art.

Experience the elegant world of the guqin, China’s traditional seven-string zither, and explore its connections to scholar culture, calligraphy, and philosophy.

Dunhuang — Where Line Meets Color

At the heart of our journey lies Dunhuang, a historic crossroads of the Silk Road and home to the extraordinary Mogao Caves.

Our specialist Dunhuang programme is designed to offer an in-depth exploration of the caves’ Buddhist art, mural paintings, sculptures, and cultural history.

With expert guidance, discover the symbolism, artistic techniques, and international influences preserved within these remarkable monuments.

The programme is intended to include special-access caves beyond the standard public visitor circuit, subject to conservation requirements and final arrangements.

Explore the world of traditional mineral pigments through lectures and hands-on artistic experiences, discovering how these vivid colors have endured for centuries.

Beyond the caves, experience the dramatic desert landscapes of the Silk Road, including the extraordinary geological formations of Yadan National Geopark.

Beijing — Living Traditions & Artistic Craftsmanship

Continue your exploration through the traditional arts and everyday cultural life of Beijing.

Discover the intricate craftsmanship of Jingtailan cloisonné, where brilliant enamel colors are combined with delicate metalwork.

Experience the miniature art of inside-painted snuff bottles, a remarkable tradition requiring precision, patience, and exceptional brush control.

Wander through Beijing’s historic Hutongs, visit local markets, and discover the pleasure of preparing traditional Chinese dumplings in a local home.

These experiences offer a more personal connection to Chinese traditions, bringing art, food, craftsmanship, and everyday life together.

The Great Wall — A Memorable Finale

Conclude the journey near the magnificent Mutianyu Great Wall, surrounded by sweeping mountain scenery.

Rather than visiting the Wall on a rushed day trip, enjoy a stay in the surrounding area, with time to appreciate this remarkable historic landscape at a more relaxed pace.

It is a fitting conclusion to a journey that connects artistic expression, cultural heritage, and the natural world.

A Small Group, A Deeper Experience

With a maximum of 8 participants, Lines & Colors is intentionally designed as an intimate cultural journey.

Our small-group approach allows for meaningful exchanges with experts and artisans, personal attention during workshops, and opportunities to share discoveries and experiences together.

Whether you are a practicing artist, an enthusiastic beginner, or simply someone with a deep curiosity about Chinese culture, you are welcome.

No previous experience in painting, calligraphy, music, or Chinese is required.

Programme Details

Dates: 27 August – 10 September 2027
Duration: 15 days / 14 nights
Route: Beijing → Xi’an → Dunhuang → Beijing
Group size: Maximum 8 participants
Experience level: All levels welcome

What’s Included

• 14 nights in carefully selected accommodations
• Beijing–Xi’an high-speed train
• Domestic flights from Xi’an to Dunhuang and Dunhuang to Beijing
• Scheduled private ground transportation
• Specialist Dunhuang programme and expert-led cultural study
• Scheduled artistic workshops, demonstrations, and cultural experiences
• Museum visits, historic sites, and scheduled entrance fees
• Workshop materials
• All meals during the official programme period
• Travel accident insurance during the official programme period

Not included: International flights to and from China, visa fees (where applicable), personal expenses, optional activities outside the programme, and personal medical, travel, or cancellation insurance.

Participation Fees

Shared Journey — €6,390 per person

Shared-room accommodation for two participants travelling together, with full access to the cultural programme and all included activities.

Solo Explorer — €6,790 per person

Private single-room accommodation throughout the journey, with the same complete programme and included experiences.

Early Bird Offer

Save €100 per participant when completing the required registration steps and paying the reservation deposit by 15 February 2027.

Registration & Payment

Participation is limited to eight people.

A €1,000 reservation deposit is required to secure your place. This deposit forms part of the total programme fee and is not an additional charge.

The remaining balance is due by 15 May 2027. Registrations after this date normally require payment in full unless otherwise agreed in writing.

Registration is confirmed once the required information and Participation Agreement have been received and accepted, and the reservation deposit has been paid.

Before registering, please read the Lines & Colors 2027 — Booking Terms.

The programme is subject to reasonable adjustments based on venue availability, conservation requirements, transportation arrangements, and other operational considerations. Exact Mogao Cave access remains subject to final confirmation.

Follow the lines of history, discover the colors of tradition, and experience China through its art, culture, and people.