China's Timeless Treasures and Wonders

Welcome to China! Upon your arrival in Beijing, we'll ensure a smooth transition to your hotel where you can freshen up and rest after your travels. As the early evening sets in, we will head to Wangfujing Street, a bustling pedestrian avenue known for its vibrant atmosphere, ample shopping options, and diverse dining experiences. This visit will serve as a perfect introduction to the city. Dinner is included as we conclude our first day, before returning to the hotel for a restful night. 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.

We will spend the entire day immersing ourselves in the wonders of Beijing, China's bustling capital. Our journey begins with a full-day exploration of the city's most iconic attractions. First on our itinerary is the Forbidden City, known as the Great Chinese Imperial Palace. This magnificent architectural masterpiece was home to 24 emperors over nearly 500 years. Following this, we will explore Jingshan Park, which features Coal Hill, a well-preserved imperial garden. From its summit, weather permitting, we can take in stunning panoramic views of the Forbidden City.Our tour then leads us to the vast expanse of Tiananmen Square, one of the largest public squares globally, offering views of the Great National Theater, or Beijing Opera House. After a delicious included lunch, we proceed to the Summer Palace, a retreat favoured by the Qing Dynasty, boasting enchanting gardens and tranquil lakes. In the afternoon, we dive into traditional Beijing life with a tricycle ride through the Hutong neighbourhoods. These historic alleyways offer a glimpse into the citys cultural heritage, with visits to traditional shops and a Siheyuan, a classic courtyard house displaying the city's architectural splendour. We will then return to our hotel for an overnight stay.Please note, due to heritage protection measures and safety regulations, the Forbidden City has temporarily reduced its daily visitor capacity. In the event we cannot visit, we will alternatively explore the Confucius Temple and the Lama Temple, significant landmarks in Chinese history and culture.

Today, we embark on a journey to one of the world's most iconic sites the Great Wall of China. We'll head to the Mutianyu section, a stunning example of this ancient marvel that stretches across breathtaking mountain landscapes. Taking a cable car to one of its most picturesque spots, we'll be treated to spectacular views of this engineering masterpiece, which has stood for over 2,000 years.On our return to Beijing, we'll explore the vibrant 798 Art District, a former military factory that has been transformed into a thriving centre for contemporary art. Filled with galleries, studios, and creative spaces, it's a fascinating stop for art enthusiasts and curious travellers alike.Our next visit is to the Temple of Heaven, a vast sacred site and UNESCO World Heritage location, where emperors once performed rituals to ensure good harvests. This beautifully designed complex offers a glimpse into Chinas spiritual past.Before concluding our eventful day, we'll unwind with a soothing foot massage followed by a Tai Chi class. These experiences will offer you a chance to embrace the balance and harmony of traditional Chinese culture.To conclude our farewell to Beijing, we'll indulge in a lacquered duck dinner, a local culinary delight that promises to be a memorable part of your culinary adventure in China.

After enjoying breakfast, we'll make our way to the train station for the next leg of our adventure. Boarding one of China's advanced high-speed trains, we'll travel to Taian at an exhilarating speed of 300 km/h, reaching our destination in just two hours. This historic city is nestled at the base of Mount Taishan, one of China's most sacred peaks, revered as a site of pilgrimage for centuries.Our visit begins at the impressive Dai Temple, a Taoist complex dating back to the 11th century, which serves as the starting point for the ancient route up the mountain. We'll have lunch before continuing our exploration. In the afternoon, we'll ascend via cable car to the renowned "Gates of Heaven" on Mount Taishan. From there, a climb of the steep staircase alongside fellow pilgrims allows us to fully appreciate the site's historical and spiritual significance.As the day draws to a close, we'll journey by bus to Qufu, celebrated as the birthplace of the philosopher Confucius, where we'll prepare for the next chapter of our cultural exploration.

Today, we delve into the rich heritage of Qufu, the birthplace of Confucius, the esteemed philosopher from the 5th century BC who founded Confucianism. Our exploration will take us to the Confucius Mansion and the Confucius Temple, offering profound insights into his enduring influence on Chinese culture and philosophy. After our visit, we'll journey onwards to Xuzhou, where lunch will be provided.In Xuzhou, we'll explore the subterranean Mausoleum of the Han Emperor, an archaeological marvel that presents a fascinating glimpse into China's ancient past. At the museum, you can admire the terracotta army a captivating discovery reminiscent of the famed warriors in Xian but on a more modest scale. Before heading to our hotel, we'll enjoy a scenic drive past Lake Yunlong, a picturesque expanse of water that graces the heart of the city. We'll conclude our day with an overnight stay in Xuzhou.

Today, we set off early from Xuzhou for the vibrant city of Nanjing, which is home to eight million people and widely recognised as one of Chinas most enjoyable cities. We expect to arrive around 12:30 p.m., allowing us time to soak up the bustling commercial atmosphere and delve into the city's rich historical tapestry. Our itinerary includes a visit to Purple Mountain, where we will explore the majestic Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum, a grand monument dedicated to the founding father of modern China. We will also visit the serene Linggu Temple, a Buddhist sanctuary offering tranquillity amid lush landscapes. After these experiences, you will have some free time to explore Nanjing at your leisure. We will spend the night in Nanjing, giving you an opportunity to unwind and reflect on the day's discoveries.

We set off for Suzhou, celebrated for its enchanting classical gardens, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Once a hub for the worlds silk production, Suzhou's historical association with elegance and beauty endures. Our visit will take us to the Garden of the Humble Administrator, the largest and most renowned in the city, where meandering paths, peaceful ponds, and verdant plantings illustrate the art of traditional Chinese garden design. Afterwards, you will have leisure time to explore Pingjiang Road, a scenic historical street featuring canals, customary teahouses, and artisan shops. Lunch is included, providing a taste of local cuisine.In the afternoon, we travel on to Tongli, a charming water town where narrow canals, stone bridges, and traditional homes reflect the allure of ancient China. Here, we will delight in a serene boat ride through the town's peaceful waterways, an experience that offers a striking view of its timeless beauty. To conclude the day, we will continue our journey to Shanghai, where we will check in for the night.

Today, we embark on an engaging tour of Shanghai, beginning in Pudong, the city's bustling financial district. This modern area is renowned for its impressive skyline, featuring the iconic Pearl Tower. We will enjoy a scenic ferry ride across the Huangpu River, offering splendid views of both the historic and contemporary facets of Shanghai. Our journey continues in the Old City, where we visit the serene Yuyuan Garden, a beautifully preserved private garden originating from the Ming Dynasty. A traditional tea ceremony awaits us here, providing further insight into China's rich cultural tapestry. Next, we explore Xintiandi, a vibrant neighbourhood renowned for its stylish boutiques, cafs, and energetic atmosphere. Following lunch, we delve into Tianzifang, a charming district filled with maze-like alleys, craft shops, and art galleries that reflect Shanghai's creative spirit. Our day concludes with a stroll along The Bund, a famous waterfront that showcases the city's colonial-era architecture, a testament to Shanghai's international trading history. The afternoon is yours to enjoy at leisure; perhaps consider an optional boat trip to witness the city magically illuminated at night.

Today, we'll begin with an early morning transfer to the train station to catch a high-speed train departing at 07:17 a.m. Our journey covers an impressive 1,000 kilometres in just over five hours, providing a delightful window into China's stunning landscapes and picturesque countryside before reaching Luoyang. Upon arrival, lunch will be provided.In the afternoon, we will visit the mesmerising Longmen Buddhist Caves, a breathtaking site where over 100,000 Buddha statues have been carved into the river's rocky cliffs, stretching along an entire kilometre. This is one of China's most extraordinary archaeological wonders. To enhance our appreciation of this magnificent location, we'll enjoy a scenic boat ride along the river.Following our visit to the caves, we'll make our way into the ancient city of Luoyang. As we enter through its grand walls, we'll be enveloped by the vibrant ambience of illuminated streets, which blend traditional charm with local life, creating an unforgettable experience.

In the early hours, we will begin our exploration just outside Luoyang at the historic White Horse Buddhist Monastery. This esteemed centre of Buddhist learning opens its doors to scholars and practitioners from across the globe, offering an atmosphere of tranquility and reflection. Our adventure continues as we make our way to Sanmenxia, a city steeped in history where we will be captivated by the majesty of the Yellow River and the architectural beauty of the Baolun Temple, renowned for its towering pagoda. A visit to the eminent Guo Museum follows, where you will discover the ancient funeral carriages from the State of Guo, providing a captivating insight into the region's rich past. With lunch included, we will journey eastward, passing by the legendary Mount Hua, recognised for its towering, sacred peaks revered throughout Chinese history. By late afternoon, we will arrive in Xi'an, marking the end of our days travels.

In Xian, a city teeming with history and culture as the starting point of the ancient Silk Road, we begin our day with a visit to the magnificent Terracotta Army. This extraordinary archaeological discovery reveals thousands of life-sized clay soldiers, unearthed after centuries beneath the ground, eternally guarding the tomb of China's first emperor. Our exploration continues as we return to Xian and marvel at the Small Wild Goose Pagoda, a serene Buddhist edifice with a history spanning over a millennium.We will then delve into the heart of the old city, wandering through the vibrant Muslim Quarter. Here, we'll visit the Great Mosque, a remarkable testament to the fusion of different cultures and religions that have flourished in China through the ages. Our journey also takes us to the Drum Tower, where we'll be delighted by a brief performance of traditional Chinese music, echoed by ancient instruments.After an enriching morning, you will have some free time to discover the joys of Xian at your own pace, exploring the city's unique blend of historical and contemporary offerings.

Following breakfast, our remarkable journey concludes, leaving you with a wealth of unforgettable memories.