Wonders of China

Welcome to Beijing, the bustling capital of China! Upon arrival, your guide will warmly greet you at the airport and transfer you to your hotel. Take time to settle into your new surroundings and get acquainted with the local area. The rest of the day is yours to explore at leisure.

Accommodation: Xin Qiao Hotel or similar

Today, we will discover the rich heritage of this ancient city and explore some of its most iconic sites. We'll start the day at Tiananmen Square, which has been the symbolic heart of China for centuries. This square is so large that it can accommodate up to one million people! As we explore this vast array of halls and monuments, our knowledgeable guide will provide an overview of China's communist history. Next, we'll embark on an in-depth exploration of the Forbidden City, the power base of Chinese emperors for centuries. The Imperial Palace Museum, which details the history of each dynasty, is contained within four palatial halls filled with antiques and treasures from the Ming to the Qing dynasties. This was the ceremonial and political center of government for almost 500 years, and we'll have the chance to step back in time and imagine what life was like for the emperors who once lived here. In the afternoon, we'll take a 40-minute drive and explore the Summer Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site comprising walkways, gardens, palaces, and lakes. We'll stroll around and admire the beauty of the setting, along with the ancient architectural structures and collections of cultural relics.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Accommodation: Xin Qiao Hotel or similar

This morning, we'll visit the Temple of Heaven, founded in the 15th century. The temple complex features a collection of fine buildings set in beautiful gardens and surrounded by pine woods. The layout and individual buildings symbolize the relationship between heaven and earth and the unique role played by emperors within this association. The temple provides a unique opportunity to witness the capital's past and present existence side-by-side. Afterward, we'll embark on a 90-minute scenic drive to the Mutianyu section of the Great Wall, which is less visited than the famous Badaling stretch. Mutianyu is a more rugged and wild wall section covered in expansive greenery. Built as a form of defense by millions of soldiers and peasants, the wall is a remarkable feat of engineering, and archaeologists estimate that it once spanned nearly 10,000 km. Construction continued over the centuries, with the most impressive portions built during the Ming Dynasty. The Mutianyu section is prominent in Chinese military history, and we'll have the opportunity to see it up close. Cable cars are available for an additional fee for those interested in a different perspective.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Accommodation: Xin Qiao Hotel or similar

We'll head to the train station for a high-speed train journey from Beijing to Xi'an, traveling in second-class. The journey takes approximately four hours, but the stunning views along the way make the time fly by. Once we arrive in Xi'an, we'll transfer to our hotel and have the rest of the day at leisure. Take the time to settle in and explore the local area, or relax and unwind after the train journey. 

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: Xi'an Grand Barony Hotel or similar.

Delve into Xi'an's rich history with visits to the Terracotta Warriors and Emperor Qinshihuang's Mausoleum, dating back over 3,000 years. One of the tour's highlights is the acclaimed Terracotta Warriors site, which consists of 8,000 life-sized figures built under the order of the emperor to accompany him to the afterlife. The intricate details and unique features of each warrior are a testament to the exceptional craftsmanship of the time. Next, we'll explore Emperor Qinshihuang's Mausoleum, the world's largest underground tomb, where the emperor was laid to rest, surrounded by treasures and artifacts. In the afternoon, we'll visit a terracotta replication factory to observe how craftsmen replicate the iconic statues found at the UNESCO-listed site. It's a chance to gain a deeper understanding of the artistry and techniques used to create such magnificent works of art.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Accommodation: Xi'an Grand Barony Hotel or similar

Experience Shanghai's vibrant and diverse city with a tour that takes you through the most iconic sites. After boarding a flight from Xi'an, we arrive in Shanghai and head straight to Yu Garden, a classic example of a traditional Chinese garden from 1559. Stroll through bamboo groves, admire koi-filled ponds, and explore Ming Dynasty pavilions in this peaceful oasis. Next, we enjoy a tea session in a nearby facility to experience the local culture. Our exploration continues to Tianzifang, a network of charming alleyways filled with cafes, bars, and boutiques. We end the day with a leisurely walk through the European-style villas and buildings of the Former French Concession before heading to the famous Bund, a waterfront promenade lined with iconic European-style architecture.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Accommodation: Metro Park Hotel or similar

Today is a free day to explore Shanghai, the largest city in China and a global financial center. With its striking blend of modernity and tradition, Shanghai has something to offer everyone. Start your day with a walk along the iconic Bund, a waterfront promenade that showcases a stunning array of European-style buildings. Marvel at the impressive architecture and enjoy the panoramic views of the Huangpu River. Cross the river to Pudong and gaze in awe at the ultra-modern skyline, including the Shanghai Tower, one of the tallest buildings in the world. Shop till you drop at the glitzy malls, find unique souvenirs at the boutique stores, and indulge in a culinary experience at one of the celebrity restaurants. The city is also home to some of the world's most prestigious art centers and museums, offering a glimpse into China's rich cultural heritage. With an efficient and extensive subway system, getting around Shanghai is a breeze. The day is yours to discover the gems of this vibrant city.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: Metro Park Hotel or similar

After enjoying breakfast at the hotel, we'll make our way to the airport for a domestic flight to Guilin. Once we arrive, we'll embark on a scenic transfer to Yangshuo, where the rest of the day is free for leisure activities. Yangshuo is known for its stunning natural beauty, featuring winding rivers, deep caves, and towering karst rock formations. This picturesque town offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of city life and is one of the most beautiful destinations in China. Spend the day exploring the area or simply relaxing and taking in the breathtaking scenery.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: Green Lotus Hotel Yangshuo or similar

After breakfast, we depart from our hotel and head to the pier, where we board a boat for a scenic journey down the Li River. The landscape along the way is breathtaking and looks straight out of classic Chinese landscape paintings. We will travel from Yangshuo to Fuli by boat, taking in the stunning karst mountains and verdant scenery. We disembarked the boat and strolled along West Street, Yangshuo's oldest street. With its traditional Chinese architecture and local shops, this street glimpses Yangshuo's rich culture and history.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Accommodation: Green Lotus Hotel Yangshuo or similar

Today we transferred to the airport for our onward flight.

Meals: Breakfast