Great Chinese Discovery with Majestic Yangtze River Cruise - 12 Days (CN-06)

Upon your arrival at the airport, our driver will be waiting for you at the arrival sector. Enjoy a comfortable transfer to the hotel. To immerse yourself in old and authentic China, embark on a guided Hutong neighborhood rickshaw tour. Hutongs, characterized by narrow alleys, have become increasingly rare with urban development. This photogenic tour provides a glimpse into the disappearing cultural heritage of Beijing, with certain old hutong areas receiving special status to preserve their historical significance. (D)

Tiananmen Square, made famous in the west by Mao Zedong's proclamation of the People's Republic of China in 1949, remains central to the city. As the fourth-largest city square globally, it boasts an impressive area of 440,000 square meters. Today's exploration begins here, followed by a visit to the renowned Imperial Palace and the Forbidden City. Serving as the residence of Chinese emperors during the Ming and Qing dynasties from 1420 to 1924, the Forbidden City's rooms are filled with one million treasures, and our experienced guide will highlight the most interesting ones.

Later, you'll visit the magnificent Summer Palace, a remarkable expression of the creative art of Chinese landscape garden design. In the evening, reward yourself with a well-earned roast duck dinner. (B,L,D)

Today, we embark on a visit to the Great Wall of China, an iconic symbol of Chinese civilization with origins dating back to the 7th century BC. Explore the Badaling Great Wall, situated in Yanqing County, approximately 70 kilometers (44 miles) north of Beijing, known for being the most well-preserved section of the Wall. Following this awe-inspiring historical journey, we will explore the Olympic Park, constructed in Beijing for the 2008 Summer Olympics. Here, you'll encounter iconic structures such as the "Bird's Nest" Beijing National Stadium, the Aquatics Centre known as the "Water Cube," and the Green Hockey Field. As the day concludes, immerse yourself in the evening's entertainment with one of Beijing's finest Acrobatic Shows. (B,L,D)

Today begins with an exhilarating railway journey aboard a new state-of-the-art high-speed train to Xian, covering the distance of 711 miles from Beijing in only 4 hours and 40 minutes. Launched in 2012, this train offers Business, First, and Second class tickets. After a brief hotel transfer, you'll commence your Xian city tour. Explore the Big Goose Pagoda, a seven-story Buddhist temple built in the 7th century, and the Little Goose Pagoda. Both temples were once part of a larger architectural ensemble and are beautiful examples of Tang dynasty masonry.

A short walk from the City Wall leads you to 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, followed by dinner this evening at the Tang Dynasty Singing and Dancing Show. (B,L,D)

Discovered accidentally in 1974 by local farmers working in the nearby fields, the Terracotta Army has since become a major attraction, drawing millions of tourists from around the world each year. Visitors come to witness the stone army, comprising over 8000 soldiers, 520 horses, and 130 chariots. During your visit, you'll have the opportunity to explore the pits and ascend the burial mound of the emperor. Your guide will be on hand to provide detailed information about the sites, excavation works, and address any questions you may have. Recognized as a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site since 1987, the Terracotta Army holds a significant place in history. Following this captivating experience, our driver will meet you in the hotel lobby to escort you to the airport for your flight to Chongqing and embark on your special cruise along the Yangtze. (B,L,D)

Today, the ship will make a stop in Shibaozhai. You have the option to take advantage of some optional excursions available on board or explore the city on your own. (B,L,D)

As the ship sets sail eastward, embarking on your journey, you will encounter some truly picturesque gorges. The first, Qutang Gorge, is a narrow passage measuring only 500 feet in width and extending 5 miles in length, framed by towering mountains. The second, Wu Gorge, although less dramatic, spans 25 miles and presents stunning vistas of green mountains blending seamlessly with the river. Optional excursions are available for those eager to explore. In the afternoon, the ship will navigate through Xiling Gorge, the longest (41 miles) and deepest gorge on the river. Later in the evening, the boat will reach the locks of the Three Gorges Dam and cross to the other side of the Dam. (B,L,D)

In the morning, you will explore the world-famous Three Gorges Dam, known as the largest dam globally. Upon arrival in Yichang later that morning, disembark from the ship. Our driver will be waiting for you at the ship entrance, holding a "China & Beyond" signboard, ready to take you to the airport for your flight to Shanghai. Upon arrival at the airport, you will be greeted at the arrival sector and transferred to the hotel. (B,L,D)

Shanghai is always a highlight on any trip to China. As the largest and busiest city in the country, it offers a diverse range of attractions, from ultra-modern architecture to serene gardens. During the panoramic city tour by car, you will make a stop at People’s Square, situated in the heart of the city. This square serves as the location for Shanghai’s local government and is a popular meeting place for locals. Also situated on the square is the Shanghai Museum, housed in a new building and showcasing the best of Chinese art, including fine bronzes, paintings, calligraphy, and furniture. Later, immerse yourself in the local experience by strolling along the famous Bund, a mile-long riverside promenade adorned with European-style buildings. (B,L,D)

Embark on an exploration of Shanghai's highlights, visiting the Yu Garden, Oriental Pearl TV Tower, New Bund, and Nanjing Road. Spread across five acres in the Suzhou style, Yu Garden features six main areas, including a rockery, a chamber of ten thousand flowers, multiple halls, and ponds. The modern Oriental Pearl TV Tower stands in brilliant contrast. Built in 1994 and holding the title of the tallest building in China for over a decade, it now boasts an impressive 468m tower with 15 viewing levels, offering an essential experience for aspiring photographers. Consider stopping for a coffee at the revolving restaurant located at 267 meters. Conclude the tour on Nanjing Road, Shanghai’s main shopping street, historically known as Park Lane until the mid-19th century. You won't be alone - it attracts over one million visitors a day! (B,L,D)

Experience a contrast to city life with a visit to Suzhou, known as China’s Garden city, celebrated for its breathtaking landscape design. The walled gardens of Suzhou once served as retreats from the outside world, and today, they stand as highlights of the city. Enjoy a boat trip on the Grand Canal, offering a unique perspective of Suzhou from the water. The tour concludes with a visit to a fascinating silk factory, not intended as a shopping stop but rather an educational opportunity to learn about the intricate process of crafting this delicate fabric. 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. (D)