Great Wall to Tokyo Delights

Welcome to China! Upon your arrival in Beijing, we'll whisk you away to your hotel for a seamless start to your adventure. As the early evening unfolds, we invite you to join us for a trip to Wangfujing Streeta bustling pedestrian thoroughfare that epitomises the essence of Beijing with its vibrant mix of shops and eclectic dining options. This excursion offers an ideal chance to familiarise yourself with the city's lively atmosphere. To round off the evening, we'll include dinner before returning you to the comfort of your 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.

On our second day in Beijing, we will embark on a journey to the legendary Great Wall of China, focusing on the Mutianyu section. This remarkable structure, with over two millennia of history, stretches across stunning mountainous terrain. We'll take a cable car to appreciate one of the most breathtaking segments, offering us unparalleled vistas of this historic fortification. As we return to Beijing, we'll explore the vibrant 798 Art District. Once a military complex, it is now a buzzing centre for contemporary art, housing an array of galleries, studios, and creative spaces. Our cultural exploration continues with a visit to the Temple of Heaven, one of the largest and most revered religious sites in China, recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here, emperors once prayed for bountiful harvests, and its impressive architecture never fails to captivate. After a busy day, we'll relax with a soothing foot massage followed by a Tai Chi classa beautiful way to connect with traditional Chinese culture through balance and harmony. To conclude our day, we'll savour a lacquered duck dinner, a classic Beijing delicacy that promises to be unforgettable.

Today promises an exciting exploration of Beijing, the bustling capital of China. We will embark on a full-day tour of some of the city's most iconic landmarks. Our adventure begins at the magnificent Forbidden City, also known as the Great Chinese Imperial Palace, where 24 emperors ruled over a span of nearly 500 years. This grand architectural complex is the epitome of imperial majesty. Next, we'll visit Jingshan Park, home to Coal Hill, one of Beijing's best-preserved imperial gardens. From its summit, we can enjoy stunning panoramic views of the Forbidden Citydepending on the weather. Our journey continues with a stroll through Tiananmen Square, one of the world's largest public squares, where we can admire the impressive Great National Theatre.Lunch is included today. We will then visit the Summer Palace, a former imperial retreat of the Qing Dynasty, famed for its beautiful gardens and tranquil lakes. In the afternoon, we'll dive into traditional Beijing life with a tricycle ride through the historic Hutong neighbourhoods. As we explore these charming alleyways, we will experience the citys cultural heritage, discover traditional shops, and visit a Siheyuanan iconic courtyard house showcasing Beijing's architectural charm.We'll return to the hotel for an overnight stay. Please note, due to heritage protection and safety regulations, access to the Forbidden City may be limited. Should we be unable to visit, we will explore the Confucius Temple and the Lama Temple instead, both of which are significant to Chinese history and culture.

Following breakfast, we will make our way to the train station to board one of China's cutting-edge high-speed trains. Travelling at speeds of up to 300 km/h, we'll cross nearly 1,000 kilometres in under four hours, arriving in Nanjing, a bustling metropolis with a population of eight million, celebrated for its pleasant environment and rich history. Known for its vibrant commercial life, Nanjing presents a captivating blend of modernity and tradition. Our first stop will be Purple Mountain, where we will visit the impressive Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum, honouring the founding father of modern China. We'll also explore the picturesque Linggu Temple, a serene and historically significant Buddhist site surrounded by lush greenery. You'll then have free time to venture around the city at your leisure. We will spend the night in Nanjing.

Our adventure continues as we journey to Suzhou, renowned for its exquisite classical gardens, recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Historically famous as the world's leading silk producer, Suzhou has long been synonymous with beauty and elegance. Our visit includes the Garden of the Humble Administrator, the largest and most celebrated garden in the city. Here, you'll discover a tranquil landscape of winding pathways, serene ponds, and lush greenery, a testament to traditional Chinese garden design. Following our garden exploration, you'll have free time to wander the enchanting Pingjiang Road, a historic street lined with canals, charming teahouses, and artisan boutiques. After enjoying an included lunch, we'll venture to Tongli, a picturesque water town where narrow canals, stone bridges, and traditional houses transport you back to ancient China. Experience a scenic boat ride along its peaceful waterways and soak up the town's timeless appeal. We will then travel to Shanghai, where well settle in for the night, eager for what the next day holds.

Today, our exploration of Shanghai begins in the vibrant financial district of Pudong, situated across the Huangpu River. This modern area is renowned for its impressive skyline, featuring iconic skyscrapers such as the Pearl Tower. After soaking in the views, we'll cross the Shanghai River on a scenic ferry ride, providing us with stunning vistas of both the city's historical and modern sides. Our next encounter with the past takes place in the Old City, where we'll visit the tranquil Yuyuan Garden. This beautifully preserved garden dates back to the Ming Dynasty and captures the essence of traditional Chinese horticulture. Here, we will also partake in a traditional tea ceremony, offering an authentic taste of China's rich cultural heritage.After this immersive experience, we head to Xintiandi, one of Shanghai's trendiest districts, known for its stylish boutiques, cafs, and energetic atmosphere. Lunch is included today, allowing us to savour local flavours before we continue our exploration. In the afternoon, we delve into the intriguingly artistic side of Shanghai at Tianzifang. This former residential area is now a labyrinth of boutique shops, craft stores, and art galleries that reflect the city's contemporary creative spirit. As the day draws to a close, a leisurely stroll along The Bund awaits, an iconic promenade lined with magnificent colonial-era buildings that echo the historical influence of European trade in Shanghai.This afternoon offers free time, presenting you with the opportunity to personalise your Shanghai experience further. Perhaps consider an optional night boat trip to see the city illuminated in all its splendoura memory likely to linger long after your journey.

On the seventh day of your journey, we begin with breakfast before transferring you to the airport for your flight to Tokyo, which is included in the itinerary. Upon arrival in Japan, you'll be welcomed by an assistant who will either speak Spanish or English. After completing immigration formalities, you'll be transported to your hotel by a shared shuttle bus. The remainder of the day is yours to explore Tokyo at your leisure, providing an excellent opportunity to acclimatise to this vibrant city.

Our day begins with an immersive guided tour of Tokyo, a city where dynamic, cutting-edge neighbourhoods exist harmoniously alongside serene, quiet retreats. The tour, lasting about five hours, will first take us to Zojoji Temple, where you'll witness one of Tokyo Tower's most iconic views. Here, the temple grounds are graced with numerous Jizo statues, dressed in colourful knit caps, bibs, and windmills, revered as protectors of children.Next, we'll make our way to the renowned Shibuya Crossing, famous for being one of the busiest intersections globally. Well then visit the tranquil Meiji Shrine, dedicated to Emperor Meiji and his consort. Our tour continues along Omotesando Avenue, acclaimed for its chic and elegant atmosphere. We'll pause to admire the picturesque views of the Imperial Palace and its gardens, and the iconic Nijubashi Bridge.As we journey through the city, we'll drive through the vibrant Akihabara district, also known as 'Electric Town', a hub for Japanese manga and anime enthusiasts. We'll also pass by the Kokugikan, Japan's notable sumo wrestling arena. Our tour concludes in Asakusa, where we'll explore the historic Sensoji Temple and the lively Nakamise Street. Well enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before heading back to the hotel for some rest.At 6:30 p.m., well reconvene in the hotel lobby to join our guide for a metro ride (tickets included) to the vibrant Shinjuku district. Known for its energetic nightlife, Shinjuku offers a fascinating evening exploration. We'll end our day with a delightful dinner at a local restaurant before returning to the hotel via metro, accompanied by our guide.

After breakfast on our final day, our journey concludes, leaving you with cherished memories of the experiences we've shared together. Safe travels as you make your way onward from Tokyo.