China's Timeless Wonders and Modern Marvels

Welcome to Beijing! Upon your arrival in China's dynamic capital, we'll transfer you to your hotel to settle in. As evening approaches, we invite you to join us for a short transfer to Wangfujing Street. This bustling pedestrian avenue is famed for its vibrant atmosphere, teeming with shops and an array of diverse restaurants. It's a perfect introduction to the lively spirit of the city and an excellent opportunity to acclimate to your new surroundings. Dinner is included this evening, after which we'll return to the hotel, wrapping up your first day in Beijing with comfort and anticipation for the adventures ahead. 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.

On the second day, we embark on a truly memorable adventure by visiting one of the world's most renowned landmarks the Great Wall of China at Mutianyu. This section of the wall, famous for its breathtaking mountain scenery, highlights an astounding architectural feat that spans over two millennia of history. We will ascend and descend via cable car, providing unparalleled views of this monumental structure.Heading back to Beijing, our next stop is the lively 798 Art District. This area, once a military factory complex, has been transformed into a bustling centre for contemporary art, featuring numerous galleries and creative spaces. Continuing our journey, we visit the Temple of Heaven, a significant UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here, emperors once sought divine favour for bountiful harvests, and the majestic architecture reflects its historical importance.To conclude this eventful day, we indulge in a soothing foot massage followed by a Tai Chi class, offering insight into the harmony and balance of traditional Chinese culture. As the day winds down, we savour a dinner of lacquered duck a local delicacy that promises to be a deliciously memorable farewell to Beijing.

Today promises an exhilarating exploration of Beijings most celebrated landmarks. Our day begins with a visit to the majestic Forbidden City, officially known as the Great Chinese Imperial Palace. This architectural marvel served as the residence for 24 emperors over almost five centuries. Afterwards, we'll head to Jingshan Park, famed for Coal Hill, where we can enjoy panoramic views of the Forbidden City from its summit, weather permitting. Our tour continues to Tiananmen Square, one of the worlds largest public spaces, where we can admire the distinct architecture of the nearby National Theatre, also referred to as the Beijing Opera House. A delightful lunch will be provided.In the afternoon, we explore the Summer Palace, the stunning imperial garden retreat of the Qing Dynasty, known for its picturesque lakes and lush landscapes. Next, we'll immerse ourselves in the traditional life of Beijing with a tricycle ride through the historic Hutong neighbourhoods. Here, you will encounter the citys timeless cultural heritage as we navigate through narrow lanes, traditional shops, and visit a classic Siheyuan, a courtyard house exemplifying Beijing's architectural charm. We will then return to our hotel for an overnight stay. Please note, due to visitor capacity restrictions, access to the Forbidden City may be limited. In such a case, we'll explore the historically significant Confucius Temple and the Lama Temple instead.

After breakfast, we'll make our way to the train station to embark on a remarkable journey aboard one of China's advanced high-speed trains. Travelling at an impressive 300 km/h, we'll cover nearly 1,000 km in under four hours, arriving in Nanjing. This bustling city of eight million residents is celebrated for its dynamic commercial activity and rich historical significance, often considered one of China's most pleasant cities.Our exploration will lead us to Purple Mountain, where we'll visit the impressive Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum. This grand monument pays tribute to the founding father of modern China. We'll also discover the serene Linggu Temple, a historic Buddhist site enveloped in lush greenery, providing a peaceful retreat from the city's hustle and bustle.The afternoon will be yours to explore Nanjing at your leisure, allowing you to delve into its unique blend of old and new at your own pace. We'll conclude the day with an overnight stay in Nanjing, resting for the adventures that await us.

We begin our journey today with a departure to Suzhou, celebrated for its classical gardens which are recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Historically significant as the world's premier silk producer, Suzhou has long been synonymous with beauty and refinement. Our exploration includes a visit to the Garden of the Humble Administrator, the largest and most renowned garden in the city, where you'll find a harmonious blend of winding pathways, tranquil ponds, and lush greenery a quintessential example of traditional Chinese landscaping.Following this, you will have some free time to wander along Pingjiang Road. This charming historic street is lined with picturesque canals, traditional teahouses, and artisan shops, offering a glimpse into the areas rich cultural heritage. Lunch is included in today's itinerary.In the afternoon, our adventure continues to the idyllic water town of Tongli. Here, you will be transported back in time as we glide along its narrow canals on a scenic boat ride, passing under stone bridges and past traditional houses that capture the allure of ancient China. Our day concludes with a transfer to Shanghai, where we will check in and settle for the evening.

Today's exploration of Shanghai will introduce you to some of its most iconic sights. We begin our day in Pudong, the city's modern financial district, located across the Huangpu River. Here, you'll marvel at the towering skyline, including the famous Pearl Tower. We will then enjoy a scenic ferry ride across the Shanghai River, offering splendid views of both the historic and modern aspects of the city. Our next destination is the Old City, where we will visit the peaceful Yuyuan Garden, a beautifully preserved private garden established during the Ming Dynasty. During our time here, you'll experience a traditional tea ceremony, an integral part of Chinese cultural heritage. Our tour continues through Xintiandi, one of Shanghais trendiest neighbourhoods, characterised by stylish boutiques, vibrant cafs, and a lively atmosphere. Lunch will be provided as part of the experience.In the afternoon, we'll delve into the artistic side of Shanghai with a visit to Tianzifang. This former residential district is now famous for its maze-like alleys, charming craft shops, and contemporary art galleries. Well wrap up our day with a walk along The Bund, where stately colonial-era buildings echo the influence of European trade in Shanghai. The afternoon is yours to enjoy at your leisure. Should you choose, embark on an enchanting night-time boat trip for an unforgettable perspective of Shanghai illuminated against the night sky.

Today, we embark on an early morning journey from Shanghai by high-speed train, scheduled to depart at 07:17 a.m. Our five-hour, 1,000 km journey offers impressive views of the beautiful countryside en route to Luoyang. Upon arrival, lunch will be provided.In Luoyang, we will explore the magnificent Longmen Buddhist Caves, an ancient site where over 100,000 Buddha carvings are etched into a kilometre-long stretch of rocky cliffs alongside the riveran astounding feat of historical artistry. To fully appreciate this monumental site, we will enjoy a scenic boat ride along the river, offering a unique perspective of the carvings.Later, we will visit the ancient city of Luoyang, passing through its grand city walls to soak in the vibrant atmosphere of its lit streets, rich with traditional culture and local life.

As the day begins on the outskirts of Luoyang, we'll visit the White Horse Buddhist Monasteryan expansive and historic centre of Buddhist scholarship that attracts academics and practitioners from across the globe. Our journey then takes us to Sanmenxia, a city steeped in rich history. Here, we will marvel at the formidable Yellow River and explore the Baolun Temple, renowned for its strikingly tall pagoda. We'll also delve into the past at the distinguished Guo Museum, considered one of China's finest, where we can see the ancient funeral carriages from the former State of Guo, offering captivating insights into the region's bygone eras. After enjoying an included lunch, we continue our eastward journey, passing by the sacred Mount Hua, celebrated for its dramatic peaks and spiritual significance, before reaching Xian in the late afternoon, where our day's adventures come to a close.

We have arrived in Xian, the remarkable city that once marked the beginning of the ancient Silk Road. Our morning begins with a visit to the legendary Terracotta Army, an awe-inspiring archaeological wonder comprising thousands of life-sized clay soldiers. These silent sentinels have stood guard over the tomb of Chinas first emperor for centuries. We'll then make our way back to the city to see the Small Wild Goose Pagoda, a stunning Buddhist monument that has endured over a millennium.Next, we'll wander through the historic heart of Xian, admiring the vibrant Muslim Quarter, where diverse cultures and religions have mingled through the ages. As part of our exploration, we'll visit the Great Mosque, an outstanding example of this cultural fusion. Our tour also includes entrance to the Drum Tower, where we'll be treated to a brief but captivating performance of traditional Chinese music on ancient instruments. The afternoon is yours to explore the city at your leisure, however you choose.

Following breakfast, our journey draws to a close, but not without leaving you with a wealth of treasured memories. We hope that the experiences and cultures you have encountered throughout the trip will stay with you for years to come. Safe travels on your return home, and may your adventures continue in the future.