16-Day Tour: Highlights of China

Full Itinerary
Day 1 Beijing
Arrive at any time. Your guide and driver will go to the airport to pick you up, and then help you to check in the hotel. There are no planned activities before an optional evening welcome dinner. After introductions, your guide will review the details of your tour during the welcome dinner. 
Day 2 Beijing (B)
Explore one of the world's largest public square---Tian’an men Square, home to the Monument to the People’s Heroes and the Great Hall of the People. Then visit the Forbidden City and its corridors and buildings, which were built during the rule of the Ming Dynasty. Learn more about the history and significance of this place, often referred to as the symbol of Beijing. 
In the afternoon, visit the Summer Palace, which is a vast ensemble of lakes, gardens, and palaces and used to be an imperial park during the Ming and Qing dynasties. UNESCO included the Summer Palace on its World Heritage List. It declared the Summer Palace " a masterpiece of Chinese landscape garden design. The natural landscape of hills and open water is combined with artificial features such as pavilions, halls, palaces, temples and bridges to form a harmonious ensemble of outstanding aesthetic value".
Optional activity: Shaolin Kung Fu Show (Watch this moving performance of choreographed martial arts.)
Day 3 Beijing-Xi’an (B) 
Set out early for the Great Wall at Mutianyu, one of the best-preserved sections of the Great Wall. Spend time wandering from tower to tower along this magnificent feat of construction. Enjoy scenic views as the wall winds along mountain ridges. Afterwards, on our way to the railway station, we will have a short visit to Beijing Olympic Park. Here you may have a chance to take brag-worthy photos of the Bird’s Nest and Water Cube. 
In the evening, board the overnight train, stretch out and get some well-earned rest en route to the next stop. 
Overnight train: Beijing-Xi’an (deluxe sleeper ticket, approx 12hrs).
Day 4 Xi'an (B, D)
After checking into the hotel in Xi’an, we’ll visit the Big Wild Goose Pagoda. The great Buddhist pagoda in Xi'an dates back about 1300 years to the Tang Dynasty. Built to store and translate Sanskrit Buddhist Scriptures brought by a monk from India, it is the only tall pagoda of the historic Tang era still standing. Opt to climb up the pagoda, then go to visit the biggest history museum in China, the Shaanxi History Museum.
Afterwards, take an orientation walk of the city with time to explore the bustling bazaar---Muslim Quarter---heading past the inner city landmarks, the Drum and Bell Towers.
In the evening, we will have a family visit to a local resident’s home and experience the real life of local people. We will also have the chance to learn how to make Chinese dumplings, and then have our home-made dumplings for dinner. 
Day 5 Xi’an (B)
Go visit the ancient City Wall, which encloses the heart of the city. Opt to cycle the ancient city walls and look down over the life of the city. Then opt to go to a local farmer’s home for a family meal.
Visit the site of the Terracotta Warriors, an archaeological treasure where approximately 8,000 soldiers and hundreds of horses stand on guard in three excavated pits in an on-site museum. Learn how the underground warriors were discovered (by accident) in 1974, and why Emperor Qin Shihuang commissioned the statues to serve as his army in the afterlife. 
Optional activity: Tang Dynasty music & dancing show
Day 6 Xi'an-E’mei Mountain (B)
Morning flight to Chengdu and then transfer to E’mei Mountain by bullet train (approximately 1 hour). In the afternoon, we will have a local cultural tour to visit the old town, visit a local family, enjoy tea, and chat with local people. Visit Baoguo Temple at the foot of E’mei Mountain. Our stay in a monastery is one of the highlights of the trip. Facilities are basic but the experience and views are breathtaking.
Day 7 E'mei Mountain (B)
Spend a full day exploring the monasteries and stunning vistas and sites of E’mei Mountain. You are likely to have close contact with the famous monkeys! Dotted with monasteries and temples, E’mei Mountain is one the five most famous mountains in China. Although now there are only about 20 active temples, there were once over 100 housing several thousand monks. Various hikes can be arranged.
Optional activity: Hot Spring in the evening
Day 8 E' mei Mountain-Chengdu (B)
Depart from E’mei for Leshan (approximately 1.5hr drive), home of the 1200-year-old Dafo, the largest stone-carved Buddha in the world. We can explore this awesome sight from a number of viewpoints. One option is to board a boat and head out into the Mingjiang River to get an overall view of the statue from afar, while the other option is climbing down the path from the serene head to the enormous toes. After that you will continue on a private transfer to Chengdu in the afternoon. Take an orientation walk of Wide and Narrow Street in the evening. The city has managed to preserve some of its traditional flavor. Explore the teahouses and the streets of Chengdu, and perhaps sample some of the local specialties.
Optional activity: Sichuan opera (Face Off Show)
Day 9 Chengdu-Chongqing (B)
In the morning, after checking out, we will visit the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, created to provide an ideal breeding environment for these endangered creatures. Learn about their life cycle and habitat and take memorable photographs of these iconic national treasures. Arrive in the fall for a chance to see tiny newborn pandas. Then catch the bullet train to Chongqing (approximately 2hours), boarding the river cruise in the evening. 
Day 10-11 Yangtse River/Three Gorges (2B,2L,2D)
The mighty Yangtze River splits China into north and south. Spend 3 full days on board a boat traversing the Three Gorges en route to Yichang. We cruise through one of the most geographically dramatic sections of the river, called the Three Gorges. The scenery is impressive, as we see the rock formations change as we pass village after village. 
While on the boat there are several optional activities to choose from. We may just want to laze the days away, writing in our journal or taking photos. Onboard activities feature lectures on Chinese history and culture, Tai Chi lessons, tea tasting and calligraphy demonstrations as well as shows and entertainment by the talented staff. Shore excursions are included over the next few days, to various temples and walled cities, which we pass along the way. Local guides give us a bit of flavor of the areas we float past. 
Daily shore excursions can include: Fengdu or Shibaozhai or Wanzhou, sail through Qutang Gorge/Wu Gorge, Daning River Small Gorges or Shennong Stream, Sail through Three Gorges dam ship locks and optional excursion to White Emperor City (all depending on the season and river conditions). Meal times will vary depending on the schedule of excursions and activities and times will be posted daily. Meals are served in a single-seating Dynasty Dining Room. Sumptuous western and Chinese buffets are offered at breakfast, lunch and dinner. An elegant Captain’s Farewell Banquet is served on the final night of the cruise. There is also a teatime in the afternoon and happy hour in the evenings.
Day 12 YiChang-Hangzhou (B, L)
In the early morning, we take an excursion to the Three Gorges Dam site, which is one of the biggest dams in the world. After a goodbye to the boat crew, we make our way to the train station, where we will take the overnight train to next destination---Hangzhou (approximately 12 hours). 
Day 13 Hangzhou (B)
Arrive in Hangzhou in the morning and have a rest after the overnight train. Today we will cycle along the West Lake. It has influenced poets and painters throughout Chinese history with its natural beauty and historic relics, and it has also been among the most important sources of inspiration for Chinese garden designers. In the evening take an orientation walk of the most famous cultural street Hefang Jie to experience the charm of the city. 
Day 14 Hangzhou-Shanghai (B)
After checking out, we will be transferred to the train station to take the bullet train to Shanghai (approximately 1.5 hours). After arriving and checking in to the hotel, we will take an orientation of the Bund. There you will see all the landmarks of Shanghai: European-style 1920s architecture; the Shanghai World Financial Centre; the Oriental Pearl TV Tower. 
Day 15 Shanghai (B) 
We first visit the Shanghai Museum, one of the best museums in the country. We will also explore the busiest bazaar in Shanghai—Yuyuan Bazaar. We will watch a traditional Chinese acrobat performance after having an optional farewell dinner.
Optional activity: World Financial Center (weather dependent)
Day 16 Shanghai (B)
Depart at any time. We offer optional airport transfer.

Inclusions
◆ Accommodation as per itinerary

◆ Transportation as per itinerary 

◆ Meals as per itinerary (B=breakfast, L=lunch, D=dinner)

◆ Breakfast

◆ Entrance fees

◆ Professional licensed guide

◆ Transport by private vehicle and public vehicle some times

Exclusions

◆ Food and drinks, unless specified

◆ Gratuities (recommended)

Additional info
◆ A minimum of 2 people per booking is required

◆ Please advise any specific dietary requirements at time of booking

◆ Vegetarian option is available, please advise at time of booking if required

◆Passport name, number, expiry and country is required at time of booking for all participants

◆You MUST confirm and obtain any visa requirements prior to border crossing. All visa requirements are the sole responsibility of the traveler

Full Itinerary
Day 1 Beijing
Arrive at any time. Your guide and driver will go to the airport to pick you up, and then help you to check in the hotel. There are no planned activities before an optional evening welcome dinner. After introductions, your guide will review the details of your tour during the welcome dinner. 
Day 2 Beijing (B)
Explore one of the world's largest public square---Tian’an men Square, home to the Monument to the People’s Heroes and the Great Hall of the People. Then visit the Forbidden City and its corridors and buildings, which were built during the rule of the Ming Dynasty. Learn more about the history and significance of this place, often referred to as the symbol of Beijing. 
In the afternoon, visit the Summer Palace, which is a vast ensemble of lakes, gardens, and palaces and used to be an imperial park during the Ming and Qing dynasties. UNESCO included the Summer Palace on its World Heritage List. It declared the Summer Palace " a masterpiece of Chinese landscape garden design. The natural landscape of hills and open water is combined with artificial features such as pavilions, halls, palaces, temples and bridges to form a harmonious ensemble of outstanding aesthetic value".
Optional activity: Shaolin Kung Fu Show (Watch this moving performance of choreographed martial arts.)
Day 3 Beijing-Xi’an (B) 
Set out early for the Great Wall at Mutianyu, one of the best-preserved sections of the Great Wall. Spend time wandering from tower to tower along this magnificent feat of construction. Enjoy scenic views as the wall winds along mountain ridges. Afterwards, on our way to the railway station, we will have a short visit to Beijing Olympic Park. Here you may have a chance to take brag-worthy photos of the Bird’s Nest and Water Cube. 
In the evening, board the overnight train, stretch out and get some well-earned rest en route to the next stop. 
Overnight train: Beijing-Xi’an (deluxe sleeper ticket, approx 12hrs).
Day 4 Xi'an (B, D)
After checking into the hotel in Xi’an, we’ll visit the Big Wild Goose Pagoda. The great Buddhist pagoda in Xi'an dates back about 1300 years to the Tang Dynasty. Built to store and translate Sanskrit Buddhist Scriptures brought by a monk from India, it is the only tall pagoda of the historic Tang era still standing. Opt to climb up the pagoda, then go to visit the biggest history museum in China, the Shaanxi History Museum.
Afterwards, take an orientation walk of the city with time to explore the bustling bazaar---Muslim Quarter---heading past the inner city landmarks, the Drum and Bell Towers.
In the evening, we will have a family visit to a local resident’s home and experience the real life of local people. We will also have the chance to learn how to make Chinese dumplings, and then have our home-made dumplings for dinner. 
Day 5 Xi’an (B)
Go visit the ancient City Wall, which encloses the heart of the city. Opt to cycle the ancient city walls and look down over the life of the city. Then opt to go to a local farmer’s home for a family meal.
Visit the site of the Terracotta Warriors, an archaeological treasure where approximately 8,000 soldiers and hundreds of horses stand on guard in three excavated pits in an on-site museum. Learn how the underground warriors were discovered (by accident) in 1974, and why Emperor Qin Shihuang commissioned the statues to serve as his army in the afterlife. 
Optional activity: Tang Dynasty music & dancing show
Day 6 Xi'an-E’mei Mountain (B)
Morning flight to Chengdu and then transfer to E’mei Mountain by bullet train (approximately 1 hour). In the afternoon, we will have a local cultural tour to visit the old town, visit a local family, enjoy tea, and chat with local people. Visit Baoguo Temple at the foot of E’mei Mountain. Our stay in a monastery is one of the highlights of the trip. Facilities are basic but the experience and views are breathtaking.
Day 7 E'mei Mountain (B)
Spend a full day exploring the monasteries and stunning vistas and sites of E’mei Mountain. You are likely to have close contact with the famous monkeys! Dotted with monasteries and temples, E’mei Mountain is one the five most famous mountains in China. Although now there are only about 20 active temples, there were once over 100 housing several thousand monks. Various hikes can be arranged.
Optional activity: Hot Spring in the evening
Day 8 E' mei Mountain-Chengdu (B)
Depart from E’mei for Leshan (approximately 1.5hr drive), home of the 1200-year-old Dafo, the largest stone-carved Buddha in the world. We can explore this awesome sight from a number of viewpoints. One option is to board a boat and head out into the Mingjiang River to get an overall view of the statue from afar, while the other option is climbing down the path from the serene head to the enormous toes. After that you will continue on a private transfer to Chengdu in the afternoon. Take an orientation walk of Wide and Narrow Street in the evening. The city has managed to preserve some of its traditional flavor. Explore the teahouses and the streets of Chengdu, and perhaps sample some of the local specialties.
Optional activity: Sichuan opera (Face Off Show)
Day 9 Chengdu-Chongqing (B)
In the morning, after checking out, we will visit the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, created to provide an ideal breeding environment for these endangered creatures. Learn about their life cycle and habitat and take memorable photographs of these iconic national treasures. Arrive in the fall for a chance to see tiny newborn pandas. Then catch the bullet train to Chongqing (approximately 2hours), boarding the river cruise in the evening. 
Day 10-11 Yangtse River/Three Gorges (2B,2L,2D)
The mighty Yangtze River splits China into north and south. Spend 3 full days on board a boat traversing the Three Gorges en route to Yichang. We cruise through one of the most geographically dramatic sections of the river, called the Three Gorges. The scenery is impressive, as we see the rock formations change as we pass village after village. 
While on the boat there are several optional activities to choose from. We may just want to laze the days away, writing in our journal or taking photos. Onboard activities feature lectures on Chinese history and culture, Tai Chi lessons, tea tasting and calligraphy demonstrations as well as shows and entertainment by the talented staff. Shore excursions are included over the next few days, to various temples and walled cities, which we pass along the way. Local guides give us a bit of flavor of the areas we float past. 
Daily shore excursions can include: Fengdu or Shibaozhai or Wanzhou, sail through Qutang Gorge/Wu Gorge, Daning River Small Gorges or Shennong Stream, Sail through Three Gorges dam ship locks and optional excursion to White Emperor City (all depending on the season and river conditions). Meal times will vary depending on the schedule of excursions and activities and times will be posted daily. Meals are served in a single-seating Dynasty Dining Room. Sumptuous western and Chinese buffets are offered at breakfast, lunch and dinner. An elegant Captain’s Farewell Banquet is served on the final night of the cruise. There is also a teatime in the afternoon and happy hour in the evenings.
Day 12 YiChang-Hangzhou (B, L)
In the early morning, we take an excursion to the Three Gorges Dam site, which is one of the biggest dams in the world. After a goodbye to the boat crew, we make our way to the train station, where we will take the overnight train to next destination---Hangzhou (approximately 12 hours). 
Day 13 Hangzhou (B)
Arrive in Hangzhou in the morning and have a rest after the overnight train. Today we will cycle along the West Lake. It has influenced poets and painters throughout Chinese history with its natural beauty and historic relics, and it has also been among the most important sources of inspiration for Chinese garden designers. In the evening take an orientation walk of the most famous cultural street Hefang Jie to experience the charm of the city. 
Day 14 Hangzhou-Shanghai (B)
After checking out, we will be transferred to the train station to take the bullet train to Shanghai (approximately 1.5 hours). After arriving and checking in to the hotel, we will take an orientation of the Bund. There you will see all the landmarks of Shanghai: European-style 1920s architecture; the Shanghai World Financial Centre; the Oriental Pearl TV Tower. 
Day 15 Shanghai (B) 
We first visit the Shanghai Museum, one of the best museums in the country. We will also explore the busiest bazaar in Shanghai—Yuyuan Bazaar. We will watch a traditional Chinese acrobat performance after having an optional farewell dinner.
Optional activity: World Financial Center (weather dependent)
Day 16 Shanghai (B)
Depart at any time. We offer optional airport transfer.

Inclusions
◆ Accommodation as per itinerary

◆ Transportation as per itinerary 

◆ Meals as per itinerary (B=breakfast, L=lunch, D=dinner)

◆ Breakfast

◆ Entrance fees

◆ Professional licensed guide

◆ Transport by private vehicle and public vehicle some times

Exclusions

◆ Food and drinks, unless specified

◆ Gratuities (recommended)

Additional info
◆ A minimum of 2 people per booking is required

◆ Please advise any specific dietary requirements at time of booking

◆ Vegetarian option is available, please advise at time of booking if required

◆Passport name, number, expiry and country is required at time of booking for all participants

◆You MUST confirm and obtain any visa requirements prior to border crossing. All visa requirements are the sole responsibility of the traveler