China's Enchanting Journey Culture and Wonders

Upon arriving in Beijing, we'll promptly transfer you to your hotel. As evening approaches, we'll head to the bustling Wangfujing Street, a lively pedestrian area renowned for its vibrant atmosphere, a variety of shops, and diverse dining options. This visit is an excellent chance to familiarise yourself with the city. Enjoy dinner with us before we return to the hotel. Please note: This tour may have travellers joining or departing at various points along the route, meaning group composition can change during the tour. Please also be aware that depending on group composition, guiding may be in additional languages as well as English.

Today, we immerse ourselves in the wonders of Beijing, starting with an excursion to the Great Wall of China at the Mutianyu section. This remarkable structure, with its history spanning over two millennia, winds through stunning mountain vistas. Well ascend and descend via cable car for a truly spectacular view of this legendary landmark.On our return journey to Beijing, well stop at the dynamic 798 Art District, a fascinating area that has transformed from a military factory into a lively centre for contemporary art, hosting numerous galleries, studios, and creative spaces. Our next destination is the Temple of Heaven, a vast and sacred complex that is one of Chinas largest. Recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it was historically a place where emperors would pray for good harvests.After a day filled with exploration, well wind down with a soothing foot massage, followed by a Tai Chi class, offering an insightful experience into the balance and harmony of traditional Chinese culture. To conclude our day, we'll indulge in a lacquered duck dinnera Beijing culinary tradition that is sure to delight your palate.

We begin an enthralling day by exploring the vibrant heart of Beijing, the capital of China. Our journey leads us to the famed Forbidden City, officially known as the Great Chinese Imperial Palace. As the seat of power for 24 emperors over nearly five centuries, it stands as the most majestic architectural complex in the nation. From here, we ascend Jingshan Park, where, weather permitting, the crest of Coal Hill offers sweeping panoramic views of the sprawling Forbidden City below.Our next destination is the vast Tiananmen Square, one of the world's largest public squares. Here, you can admire the impressive architecture of the Great National Theater, also known as the Beijing Opera House. Lunch is provided as part of the day's activities.In the afternoon, we continue to the Summer Palace, a former retreat of the Qing Dynasty. It is renowned for its peaceful gardens and serene lakes. We then delve into the traditional life of Beijing with a tricycle ride through the historic Hutong neighbourhoods. These narrow alleyways bustle with cultural heritage, flanked by quaint shops and classic Siheyuan courtyard houses that capture the city's architectural elegance.Please note, due to current heritage protection measures and visitor safety regulations, the visitor capacity at the Forbidden City has been reduced. We regret that entry is not guaranteed. Should access be unavailable, we will instead explore the Confucius Temple and the Lama Temple, both of which are significant to Chinese history and culture. After a day rich in history and culture, we return to the hotel for an overnight stay.

After breakfast, we will make our way to the train station to board one of China's modern high-speed trains. Travelling at a swift 300 km/h, we will cover nearly 1,000 kilometres in less than four hours, arriving in Nanjing. This vibrant city, home to eight million people, is often celebrated as one of the most pleasant places in China. Our exploration of Nanjing begins at Purple Mountain, where we will visit the impressive Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum, a grand monument honouring the founding father of modern China. We will also explore the serene Linggu Temple, a picturesque and historically significant Buddhist site surrounded by lush greenery. Afterwards, you will have free time to discover the city at your own pace. We will spend the night in Nanjing.

Today, we'll journey to Suzhou, admired for its stunning classical gardens that have earned a UNESCO World Heritage status. Historically, Suzhou has been synonymous with silk production and elegance. Our itinerary includes a visit to the Garden of the Humble Administrator, the largest and most renowned garden in the city, where you'll find winding pathways, tranquil ponds, and lush greenerya perfect example of traditional Chinese landscaping mastery. Afterward, you'll have the opportunity to explore Pingjiang Road at your leisure. This charming historic street is lined with serene canals, quaint teahouses, and artisan shops, offering a glimpse into the city's rich past. We'll enjoy lunch before travelling onward to Tongli, a picturesque water town known for its narrow canals, stone bridges, and traditional architecture. Here, we'll delight in a scenic boat ride that captures the timeless charm of ancient China. We then proceed to Shanghai, where we will settle in for an overnight stay.

On day six, our exploration of Shanghai unveils its striking blend of old and new. We begin in Pudong, the citys bustling financial hub across the Huangpu River, where youll encounter an impressive skyline dominated by towering skyscrapers like the iconic Pearl Tower. We then cross the river on a scenic ferry ride, providing a fantastic view of both the historic and modern facets of the city.In the Old City, we visit Yuyuan Garden, a peaceful oasis built during the Ming Dynasty, where you will enjoy a traditional tea ceremony that showcases China's rich cultural heritage. Our journey continues through Xintiandi, a vibrant district celebrated for its fashionable boutiques and lively cafs, offering a perfect blend of historic charm and modern style. After a lunch break, we venture into Tianzifang, a maze of narrow alleys filled with intriguing craft shops and avant-garde art galleries.We wrap up the day's explorations with a leisurely walk along The Bund. This historic waterfront area, lined with grand colonial-era architecture, reflects Shanghais significant role in China's trade history. The afternoon is yours to explore. You might consider a night-time boat cruise, affording you a captivating view of Shanghais illuminated skylinean experience not to be missed.

We begin our day with a transfer to the train station for an early morning departure at 07:17 a.m. on a high-speed train. During the over five-hour journey, we'll cover 1,000 km, travelling through picturesque countryside with captivating views. Upon our arrival in Luoyang, lunch is included to refresh you after the trip. Our first stop is the extraordinary Longmen Buddhist Caves, an extensive network of sculptures and carvings etched into the cliffs along the river. With over 100,000 representations of Buddha, this site stands as a testament to China's rich heritage. To further appreciate the serene beauty of this area, we'll take a scenic boat ride along the river. Afterwards, you'll have the chance to explore Luoyang itself, where we'll pass through the city's ancient walls and walk through its lively, illuminated streets, steeped in traditional charm and bustling local life.

Today, we start our day on the outskirts of Luoyang, where you will have the chance to visit the White Horse Buddhist Monastery. This esteemed and expansive centre of Buddhist education is renowned for welcoming scholars and practitioners worldwide. Our journey continues to Sanmenxia, a city brimming with history and offering stunning views of the formidable Yellow River. Here, we'll visit the Baolun Temple, notable for its towering pagoda, and the esteemed Guo Museum. This museum, one of China's best, provides an intriguing glimpse into the region's past with its ancient funeral carriages of the former State of Guo. Lunch is included. As we travel eastward, we'll catch sight of the sacred Mount Hua, revered for its striking peaks and spiritual importance. We will reach Xian by late afternoon, concluding our day's explorations.

In the captivating city of Xi'an, where the historic Silk Road once began, our day unfolds with a visit to the renowned Terracotta Army. This extraordinary archaeological discovery reveals thousands of life-sized clay soldiers that have silently guarded the tomb of China's first emperor for centuries. Following this, we return to Xi'an to marvel at the Small Wild Goose Pagoda, an elegant Buddhist structure with over a millennium of history. Our exploration continues within the ancient city walls, where we wander through the vibrant Muslim Quarter. Here we find the Great Mosque, a testament to the fascinating cultural and religious fusion present in China over the ages. The experience is enriched by a visit to the Drum Tower, where a delightful performance of traditional Chinese music, played on age-old instruments, awaits.After these enriching discoveries, you will have the rest of the day to explore Xi'an at your leisure.

Today, we depart from Xian aboard a state-of-the-art high-speed train, covering the 700 km journey to Chengdu in just over three hours. On arrival, we visit the renowned Panda Research and Breeding Centre, home to 120 giant pandas and 76 red pandas, where you'll better understand their conservation efforts. Lunch is provided. In the afternoon, we take a leisurely stroll through People's Park, known for its serene lake, traditional tea houses, and local residents practising Tai Chi, offering a glimpse into the local lifestyle.

As the day unfolds, we embark on a captivating exploration of Sichuan Province, renowned for its picturesque scenery and lasting traditions. Our first stop is Dujiangyan, an ancient marvel of engineering this irrigation system has sustained the region for over 2,000 years and is recognised as a World Heritage Site. Afterwards, we venture to Qingcheng Shan, known as the "Green City Mountain," a revered Taoist site. As we wander through its lush forests, we discover hidden caves, ornate pavilions, and venerable wooden temples. A delightful lunch will be provided as we soak in the tranquillity of the surroundings. Later in the day, our journey takes us to Jiezi, a historic town whose winding streets have witnessed over a thousand years of history and culture. As we stroll through its ancient alleys, we uncover the charm of a bygone era. In the evening, we return to Chengdu, where you can reflect on the days myriad experiences.

We'll rise early to catch a train departing at 07:38, covering nearly 1,000 kilometres in just over five and a half hours through stunning mountain landscapeslunch will be a picnic on board. On arrival in Congjiang, you'll find yourself in an astonishing, lesser-known region of China, home to diverse ethnic minorities. We'll explore the Basha Miao Village, nestled in the forest, where the unique community famously carries firearmsa tradition linked to their history as bear hunters. Our journey continues to Zhaoxing, the largest town of the Dong minority. Zhaoxing is renowned for its enchanting beauty, boasting over 800 traditional homes; many claim it to be the most picturesque town in China. We will settle in for the night here.

Your journey today will take you to Guangxiao, nestled among the picturesque villages of the Dong ethnic group. This quaint town, preserved in its historical charm, is rarely explored by international travellers. You'll admire its captivating wooden architecture, including the suspension bridge, drum tower, and opera house. Next, we venture to Chengyang to see the impressive "wind and rain bridge," a remarkable example of Dong craftsmanship. Lunch is included. Our exploration continues to Longsheng, where we'll visit the World Heritage-listed Longji rice terraces. A small bus will transport us to stunning viewpoints, and you'll have the opportunity to amble along pathways amid the rice paddies, surrounded by breathtaking landscapes. We'll then proceed to Guilin, arriving late in the afternoon.

In Guilin, we begin our day immersed in the city's enchanting surroundings, known for their picturesque beauty along the Li River. We'll explore the Reed Flute Cave, a remarkable limestone cavern adorned with stunningly shaped stalactites and stalagmites, beautifully illuminated in vibrant colours to create an otherworldly atmosphere. The afternoon is yours to enjoy as you wish. You might consider visiting the historic Jingjiang Palace, often referred to as the "miniature Forbidden City," to delve deeper into the local history and culture. Accommodation for the night is in Guilin. Please note, the schedule of our visits in Guilin or the day of the Li River Cruise might be adjusted, ensuring the overall itinerary remains intact.

We begin our day in Guilin by embarking on a scenic cruise along the Li River. This journey offers stunning vistas as we glide past lush green mountains and quaint riverside villages, with towering limestone peaks creating a mesmerising backdrop. Lunch will be served onboard as we continue towards Yangshuo, a lively tourist destination where you can wander through the bustling streets and soak in the vibrant local culture. Afterwards, we'll journey through the heart of central China to Huangyao, a wonderfully preserved ancient city. Here, you'll have time to explore its charming narrow streets, historic buildings, and tranquil temples, offering a glimpse into the past. Finally, we progress onwards to Guangzhou, arriving by late evening in this dynamic city.

In Guangzhou, we'll start our exploration with a two-hour tour of this bustling southern Chinese metropolis. Our walk along Shangxiajiu Street will introduce us to its lively traditional market, and we'll visit the Chen Clan Ancestral Hall, a fine example of Lingnan architecture from the late 19th century. The tour continues along the riverside area, offering a glimpse into the rhythm of life here. After a provided lunch, we head to Zhuhai, nestled by the China Sea. We'll make a stop at the awe-inspiring Opera House, inaugurated in 2016, which with its unique design, represents the sun and the moon against the reclaimed land from the sea. Our journey proceeds with a border crossing as we enter Macau. Here, we'll be dazzled by the vibrant casino areaan astounding experience reminiscent of the glitz of Las Vegas. Important: Remember, if you're returning to mainland China after visiting Macau and Hong Kong, a double-entry visa is required.

In Macau, our journey begins with an exploration of its UNESCO World Heritage-listed city centre. Once under Portuguese administration from the 16th century until 1999, Macau's rich history is reflected in its ancient churches, the intricate tiles of civil buildings, a formidable fortress, and China's oldest lighthouse. After our guided tour, you'll have some free time to further explore at your leisure, and a lunch is included.In the afternoon, we'll embark on a remarkable journey across one of the worlds engineering marvels the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau Bridge. Opened at the end of 2018, this impressive structure spans over 30 kilometres of bridges over the China Sea, features a 6-kilometre tunnel under the sea, and incorporates artificial islands. We'll pause at a tourist platform to appreciate this feat of engineering.Upon arrival in Hong Kong, we'll settle into our accommodation before taking the iconic Star Ferry across Hong Kong Bay. This short journey offers a stunning view of the illuminated skyline from the water. We'll end the evening with a return to the area near our hotel, where dinner will be provided. Accommodation is arranged for the night. Please note that if our group consists of fewer than 12 people, the transfer from Macau to Hong Kong may be made via Shuttle bus instead.

Today in Hong Kong, we'll start our exploration after breakfast by delving into the city's impressive financial district, home to its renowned skyscrapers. Our visit will take us to the History Museum, where you'll gain insights into Hong Kong's past, including the colonial period and World War influences. As we stroll along the Avenue of Stars by the dock, you'll have the chance to learn about notable figures from the film industry. Next, we'll board the Star Ferry to cross Hong Kong Bay, a classic local experience, before ascending to Victoria Peak by bus. At 552 metres, Victoria Peak offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city. We'll return via the iconic Peak Tram, providing a unique perspective on our descent. The rest of the afternoon is yours to explore Hong Kong at your leisure, offering endless opportunities for discovery and adventure.

As your journey draws to a close, enjoy a leisurely breakfast on your final day in Hong Kong. Reflect on the memorable experiences and diverse cultural encounters of your trip. Whether you've marvelled at the city's iconic skyline or walked through historic streets, we hope you carry these vivid memories with you. Take some time to savour your last moments in this bustling metropolis before heading off on your onward travels or journey home. Safe travels!