Best of China: Exploring Beijing, Xian, Guilin & Li River, Shanghai, Suzhou - 11 Days (CN-05)

Upon your arrival, our driver will warmly welcome you and facilitate your transfer to the hotel. To commence your exploration, we step back in time with a visit via a rickshaw to an old Beijing district - a 'Hutong' neighborhood situated by Shichahai Lake. Hutongs typically represent city areas with narrow streets or alleys. You will embark on a guided rickshaw ride through the narrow alleys of this distinctive part of old Beijing, gaining insight into how locals lived many years ago. (D)

Tiananmen Square, often considered the symbol of China's capital, stands as the fourth-largest city square globally, spanning an expansive 440,000 square meters. Take a moment to appreciate its vast size and grandeur, reflecting on the significant events in modern Chinese history that have unfolded here, including the government troops intervening in the pro-democracy protests of 1989.

Next, your journey takes you to the renowned Imperial Palace and the Forbidden City. Now transformed into the Palace Museum, its rooms house over a million treasures, and your experienced guide will expertly direct you to the most intriguing pieces. Following this, explore the Summer Palace, providing a glimpse into Chinese landscape garden design. As the day concludes, indulge in a typical Beijing dinner, savoring the local flavors. (B,L,D)

The Great Wall, a symbol of Chinese civilization and the most renowned tourist attraction in China, eagerly awaits your visit. Today, explore the Badaling section of the Great Wall, constructed during the Ming dynasty in the 16th century. Marvel at the grandeur and historical significance of this remarkable structure.

Following your visit to the Great Wall, your journey takes you to the site of the famous Olympic Green and Olympic Park from 2008. Witness iconic structures such as the 'Bird’s Nest' Beijing National Stadium, the Aquatics Centre known as the "Water Cube," the Green Hockey Field, and many other architectural marvels associated with the 2008 Summer Olympics. In the evening, treat yourself to one of Beijing's finest Acrobatic Shows, showcasing incredible feats and performances. (B,L,D)

Next, embark on a journey to Xian via the new morning bullet train, covering an impressive 711 miles from Beijing to Xian in just 4 hours and 40 minutes. Your Xian city tour will acquaint you with this fascinating city, one of the four ancient capitals of China. Key sights include the Big Goose Pagoda (a seven-story Buddhist temple), the Little Goose Pagoda, the City Wall, the Bell Tower (which signaled the city gates opening at dawn), and the Great Mosque, one of the first mosques built in China. Enjoy a local lunch, and in the evening, you will visit the famous Tang Dynasty Singing and Dancing Show, featuring dances and songs adapted from Chinese folklore. (B,L,D)

For many, the most exhilarating tourist attraction in China is the Terracotta Army. Currently, three pits are open to the public, showcasing thousands of terracotta statues depicting warriors and horses that constitute the army of the First Chinese Emperor. This stone army is estimated to consist of over 8000 soldiers, 520 horses, and 130 chariots. During your visit, you will have the opportunity to closely examine the pits and ascend the burial mound of the emperor. Your guide will provide detailed information about the sites and ongoing excavation works, addressing all your questions. Following this, you will be transferred to catch your onward flight to Guilin, where you'll be met upon arrival. (B,L,D)

Today, you'll experience another facet of China. Embark on a river cruise along the banks of the Li River, spanning over five hours. Throughout the journey, you'll be treated to breathtaking views of the karst peaks. Your guide will point out famous hills such as Elephant-Trunk Hill and Pagoda Hill, providing insights into the small towns you pass along the way. The cruise concludes in Yangshuo, a charming and picturesque town. Here, you can opt to hire a bike and explore the scenic surroundings or simply enjoy a cup of tea on West Street. In the afternoon, transfer back to Guilin. (B,L,D)

Embark on a city tour around Guilin in the morning. Your itinerary includes a visit to the Seven Star Park, renowned for its limestone cave, as well as the zoo and the Flower Bridge. Explore the iconic Elephant Trunk Hill, which bears a resemblance to an elephant sucking water, and Diecai Hill - a scenic spot by the river featuring beautiful caves, pavilions, and stone carvings. Afterward, our driver will be waiting for you in the hotel lobby with a “China & Beyond” signboard, ready to take you to the airport for your flight to Shanghai. Upon arrival, you will be greeted and transferred to the hotel. (B,L,D)

Shanghai stands as the largest and busiest city in China, characterized by its thrilling and fast-paced atmosphere. During your visit, you will explore its top sights, including the People’s Square situated in the heart of the city, the renowned Shanghai Museum, and the iconic Bund-a mile-long riverside promenade showcasing examples of Baroque and Neo-Classical design. Immerse yourself in the vibrant energy, and capture memorable moments along the river. (B,L,D)

Today's tour encapsulates the essence of past, present, and future Shanghai. Begin in old Shanghai by visiting a tranquil garden located next to the City God Temple. Here, you'll witness examples of traditional Chinese gardens, featuring a rockery, a chamber of ten thousand flowers, multiple halls, ponds, pavilions, and towers. Next, explore the striking Oriental Pearl TV Tower, boasting 11 spheres and an impressive 468m tower with 15 viewing levels. Conclude the day with a visit to Nanjing Road, Shanghai’s main shopping street, which draws over one million visitors daily. (B,L,D)

Today offers a change of scenery as you travel to Suzhou, often referred to as the ‘Eastern Venice’ owing to its gardens and watery landscapes. Take a leisurely pace to contemplate and immerse yourself in the tranquility and peace of this charming city. After exploring some of Suzhou's renowned gardens, embark on a boat trip along the Grand Canal to see the city from a different perspective. The final stop on this tour is a Silk Factory, providing an educational and hands-on experience in the intricate process of silk production. If time permits, take advantage of being in Suzhou and visit one of the Tea Houses. In the evening, transfer back to Shanghai. (B,L,D)

Our driver will meet you in the hotel lobby and take you to the airport to catch your flight home. (B)