Embark on a captivating journey through China, exploring its iconic landmarks and vibrant culture. Begin your journey in Beijing, exploring the Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square, and the Temple of Heaven, followed by a memorable walk along the breathtaking Mutianyu section of the Great Wall. Next, visit Xi’an, home to the world-famous Terracotta Warriors and the ancient city wall. In Chengdu, experience the charm of the Giant Panda Research Base, learning about China’s beloved national treasures. Cruise the majestic Yangtze River for three unforgettable days, passing through the stunning Three Gorges and visiting the impressive Three Gorges Dam. Conclude in Shanghai, a dazzling metropolis where modern skyscrapers meet historic neighborhoods, offering a perfect blend of tradition and innovation.
TOUR HIGHLIGHTS
Beijing: The capital of China, a vibrant metropolis blending ancient history with modern development. Home to iconic landmarks like the Forbidden City and the Temple of Heaven, it offers a rich cultural heritage alongside its role as a political and economic center.
Mutianyu Great Wall: Surrounded by lush forests, this well-preserved section offers stunning views and fewer crowds, making it a popular destination for visitors looking to experience the Wall's history and natural beauty.
Xi’an: The ancient capital of China and starting point of the Silk Road, is a city rich in history and culture. Known for its iconic Terracotta Warriors, ancient city wall, and vibrant Muslim Quarter, it offers a fascinating glimpse into China's past and present.
Chengdu: The vibrant capital of Sichuan Province, renowned for its spicy cuisine, laid-back lifestyle, and home of the Giant Panda. Explore the Giant Panda Research Base, bustling tea houses, and ancient cultural sites while enjoying the city’s unique blend of tradition and modernity.
The Yangtze River: The longest river in Asia and the third longest in the world, the Yangtze carries you on an eternal journey through China’s heartland.
Shanghai: A dynamic metropolis that seamlessly blends modern skyscrapers with rich cultural heritage. Known for its stunning skyline along the Bund, bustling shopping streets, and historic neighborhoods like the French Concession, the city offers a captivating mix of old and new.
Day 1: ARRIVAL BEIJING
Upon arrival at Beijing Capital Airport, you will be welcomed by your local guide and transferred to your hotel. Enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure in the city. Take the opportunity to rest and recover after the flight or head out for your first glimpse of life in China’s sprawling capital city.
Overnight in Beijing.
Day 2: BEIJING
Start your day with breakfast at the hotel, followed by a visit to the Temple of Heaven, a stunning architectural masterpiece crowned with triple-tiered blue roofs, symbolizing the connection between the human and divine realms. After lunch at a local restaurant, stroll through the historic Tian'anmen Square, a vast plaza steeped in cultural and political significance. Conclude the day by exploring the Forbidden City, the magnificent imperial palace that once housed the emperors of the Ming and Qing dynasties, showcasing centuries of grandeur and history.
Overnight in Beijing.
Day 3: BEIJING: THE GREAT WALL
After breakfast at the hotel, prepare for an unforgettable day of exploration. Begin your morning with an excursion to the Mutianyu Great Wall, located 80 km north of Beijing. This less crowded section offers a more serene experience, with the option to ascend and descend on foot, or by cable car (available for an additional fee on site). Enjoy lunch nearby before returning to the city to visit the Summer Palace, the last royal garden of the Qing Dynasty, then take a look at the Olympic sites, including the Bird's Nest and the Water Cube.
Overnight in Beijing.
Day 4: BEIJING – XI’AN (5.5hrs by train, included)
Enjoy breakfast at the hotel and morning free at leisure. In the early afternoon transfer to the Railway Station to take a high-speed train to Xi’an. Upon arrival, you will be greeted by your local guide and transferred to your hotel for check in. Spend the rest of the day at leisure.
Overnight in Xi'an.
Day 5: XI’AN
After breakfast at the hotel enjoy a free day at leisure in Xi’an, where you can delve into the city’s rich history and vibrant culture at your own pace. You could visit the Xi’an Museum to explore ancient artifacts and learn about the city’s storied past. Stroll through the peaceful Small Wild Goose Pagoda and its surrounding gardens, a serene escape in the heart of the city. For a unique experience, bike or walk along the ancient city wall, one of the most complete and well-preserved city walls in China, offering stunning views of the cityscape. Alternatively, join our guided tour for a whole day exploration of the city (not included).
Full-Day Xi’an City Tour with Tang Dynasty Dinner Show: Begin your day with a visit to a park near the Xi’an Ancient City Wall, where you can observe locals engaging in traditional morning exercises and sports. Climb the well-preserved walls for a scenic walk and panoramic views of the city. Next, visit the former Gao Family Residence, a historical courtyard home, and enjoy a charming puppet show and a performance of Qinqiang, a traditional local opera. After lunch at a local restaurant continue to the Great Wild Goose Pagoda, where you’ll learn the art of Chinese calligraphy and explore the elegant, lively neighborhoods surrounding this iconic landmark. In the evening, enjoy a spectacular Tang Dynasty Music and Dance Show, accompanied by a sumptuous dumpling banquet. Return to your hotel for a restful overnight stay.
Overnight in Xi'an.
Day 6: XI’AN
Wake up to breakfast at the hotel and get ready for a visit to the Terracotta Warriors Museum. Praised as the eighth wonder of the world, this collection of terracotta warriors, horses, chariots and weapons unearthed at the site of the Mausoleum of the First Qin Emperor provides a fascinating insight into ancient China. Around 2,000 warriors have been excavated since their chance discovery in 1974, but it is estimated that there may be up to an impressive 8,000 in total. This silent army is a fascinating highlight of any tour. After enjoying lunch on-site, return to Xi'an for a visit to a jade workshop, followed by a stroll through the vibrant Muslim Quarter. Then, visit the Great Mosque, a unique blend of Chinese and Islamic architecture featuring a stunning square courtyard design.
Overnight in Xi’an.
Day 7: XI’AN – CHENGDU (4hrs by train, included)
Enjoy breakfast at your hotel before transferring to the train station for a high-speed train to Chengdu, the capital of Sichuan province, the region of chilli pepper and gastronomy. Upon arrival, your local guide will welcome you and lead you through the People's Park, where locals gather for leisure and relaxation in charming tea houses. Take a moment to savor a cup of tea and unwind in this serene setting. Next, visit Wenshu Temple, a beautiful and peaceful Buddhist temple in the style of Sichuan architecture and walk around the pedestrian area. Then transfer to your hotel for check-in.
Overnight in Chengdu.
Day 8: CHENGDU – CHONGQING – YANGTZE RIVER CRUISE (2hrs by train, included)
Start your day with breakfast at your hotel, followed by a visit the Chengdu Panda Research Base, where you’ll have the opportunity to see giant pandas up close, including newborns and playful baby pandas. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before transferring to the train station for a high-speed train journey to Chongqing. Upon arrival, your local English guide will greet you and accompany you directly to the port, where you’ll board your cruise to Yichang. This leisurely 3-night journey by boat will take you through the stunning scenery of the Yangtze River, the third longest river in the world and China’s lifeline with tributaries running through 18 provinces and cities.
Overnight on board.
Day 9: YANGTZE RIVER CRUISE
After breakfast on board, visit Shuangguishan Park (depending on water level conditions). You can also visit Fengdu, the legendary 'ghost town' (optional, to be paid on spot), where you can explore the fascinating temples on Mingshan Mountain. Later, take in the serene rural landscapes of southern China as you cruise and enjoy a buffet lunch on board. In the evening, enjoy a welcome dinner hosted by the captain, followed by a special performance prepared by the ship's staff.
Overnight on board.
Day 10: YANGTZE RIVER CRUISE
After breakfast, you’ll have the option to visit the legendary 'White Emperor City' (optional, to be paid on spot), where you can delve into the rich history of China's Sanguo period (Three Kingdoms era). Around noon, your boat will pass through the majestic Qutang Gorge, the first of the renowned Three Gorges. This journey continues with a breathtaking view of the mythical Wu Gorge, celebrated for its dramatic mountains and verdant hills. After a buffet lunch on board, disembark for an excursion along the banks of the Shennong River in a traditional wooden boat. This picturesque tributary of the Yangtze serves as a vital route for the region's farming communities. Later in the afternoon, return to the ship as it navigates through the third and final gorge, Xiling. End your day with a buffet dinner on board.
Overnight on board.
Day 11: YANGTZE RIVER CRUISE – YICHANG – SHANGHAI (8 hrs by train)
After breakfast on board, your Yichang guide will join you to escort you as you disembark for a visit to the impressive Three Gorges Dam, the largest hydraulic dam in the world. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant in Yichang before boarding a train to Shanghai. Dinner will be on your own during the journey (we recommend purchasing your meal before boarding). Arrive in Shanghai in the evening and transfer to your hotel for overnight.
Overnight in Shanghai.
Day 12: SHANGHAI
After breakfast at the hotel, embark on a tour showcasing the captivating contrast between old and new Shanghai. Begin with a visit to the enchanting Mandarin Yu Garden, a classical Chinese garden filled with intricate pavilions, koi ponds, and rockeries. From there, wander through the vibrant streets of Shanghai's Old Town, soaking in the city's rich history and traditional architecture. After a delightful lunch at a local restaurant, discover the art of silk-making at a silk workshop, gaining insight into this traditional craft. In the afternoon, visit the serene Jade Buddha Temple, home to exquisite jade statues, before concluding with an in-depth tour of the iconic Bund, where colonial-era buildings and modern skyscrapers create a stunning juxtaposition along the Huangpu River.
Overnight in Shanghai.
Day 13: DEPARTURE SHANGHAI
Enjoy one last breakfast at the hotel and some free time before your driver takes you to Shanghai International Airport for your departure flight.
Comfortable and light clothing is best suited to travel in the warm months and warm clothing in the colder months in China. Visitors should not wear sleeveless shirts, shorts, short skirts or sparse clothing when visiting temples, religious or official buildings. Sun protection, sunglasses and a hat can be very useful during your stay.
