Deluxe option from £3550* PP
Trip code: YBE-D-18 |
Group size: Max 16, Avg 12
START Beijing, Great Wall, Xian, Terracotta Warriors, Guilin, Longsheng, Yangshuo, Yangtze River Cruise, Zhujiajiao, Shanghai FINISH
China has so much to discover, from the thronging cities of Shanghai and Beijing to the cobbled streets of Yangshuo. Icons such as the Terracotta Warriors and Great Wall are not to be missed, but a sojourn into backstreets and local homes is a real treat. A cruise along the Yangtze reveals soaring mountains and tranquil rivers. On this journey, the ancient culture of this historic land offers up incredible relics and fascinating insights, and natural wonders provide breathtaking scenery.
Availability
01865 268 940
2013
DAYS 1-4: BEIJING
On arrival in Beijing, transfer to your hotel to meet your tour leader and small group of fellow travellers for a welcome drink. Walk through the incredible expanse of Tiananmen Square before continuing on foot to the splendid Forbidden City. Plunge into one of Beijing’s few remaining hutongs, the city’s traditional back streets, for lunch in a local home and a rickshaw ride. See the beating of the drums ceremony at the Drum Tower, and take the chance to feast on Peking Duck. Travel to Mutianyu to walk on the Great Wall with fewer tourists than other sites, and perhaps browse the Wangfujing Night Markets. Explore the impressive Temple of Heaven and the Summer Palace. Board a comfortable overnight train, or choose our deluxe option and fly to Xian.
Hotel: The Peninsula Beijing
DAYS 5-6: XIAN
In Xian, marvel at the life-size Army of Terracotta Warriors, uncover the vibrant Muslim Quarter and explore the holy Big Goose Pagoda. You also have the chance to indulge in a sumptuous dumpling banquet, a regional specialty.
Hotel: Sofitel Xian on Renmin Square
DAYS 7-8: GUILIN & LONGSHENG
A short flight ends in beautiful Guilin. Climb the stone steps to the top of Fubo Hill for panoramic views across the city’s rooftops and limestone mountains beyond. At a traditional Chinese Medicine Centre, learn about acupuncture, reflexology and herbal medicine. A day trip to Longsheng reveals a local White Yao village for a taste of traditional village life. Here, admire the spectacular rice terraces known as the Dragon’s Backbone.
Hotel: Sheraton Guilin
DAYS 9-10: YANGSHUO
Cruise the Li River and soak up the limestone karst scenery. Wander the cobbled streets of charming Yangshuo and cycle delightful backroads of local villages. There is free time to take in an evening show or browse the local markets.
Hotel: Green Lotus Hotel
DAYS 11-13: CHONGQING & YANGTZE RIVER
Fly to Chongqing and see the Giant Pandas at the local zoo, before you begin your cruise down the mighty Yangtze River. Settle in on board and watch the ever changing scenery from your private balcony, as you float past shiny new cities, remnants of towns, and the amazing Three Gorges. There are plenty of exciting shore excursions, including a visit to the Three Gorges Dam site and a cruise up the Daning River.
Note: Yangtze cruise ships and itineraries are subject to change due to weather conditions and water levels.
Hotel: Victoria Grace (Cruise Ship), Executive Deck
DAYS 14-18: SHANGHAI & ZHUJIAJIAO
A flight brings you to Shanghai, a city full of incredible contrast between old and new. Admire the gorgeous, Art Deco streetscapes of the Bund and then visit the superb Shanghai Museum and serene Yu Garden. A day trip to the ancient water town of Zhujiajiao unveils lovely old architecture and bridges, perched along canals. In the Chinese Quarter, roam the vivacious backstreets and then see the breathtaking Shanghai acrobats in action. On your last day, enjoy free time before your departure transfer.
Hotel: The Westin Bund Center Shanghai
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