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9 days from $2,499 per person
Your 9-day Small Group Escorted Touring features city-center, 5-star hotels, 15 meals, in-depth Small Group sightseeing, all on-tour transportation and 3 internal flights.
You'll tour China’s best cities and be transported off the beaten path… for deeper engagement with the country’s rich culture and splendid landscapes. Discover 6 UNESCO World Heritage Sites spanning centuries of Imperial grandeur and venture into the countryside for a glimpse into the timeless rhythms of modern-day China. With never more than 16 fellow travelers and our terrific English-speaking guides, your exploration will be intimate, unhurried and thoughtful.
Beijing, Xian, Guilin, Yangshuo and Shanghai, China
Engaging Discoveries
- A cable car ride at the Great Wall promises unforgettable views and the perfect complement to your walking exploration atop this ancient defensive structure.
- Ride a bike atop the ancient city walls of Xian for terrific views over the ancient capital. Then savor a local specialty at a festive Dumpling Dinner.
- Bamboo rafting on an especially scenic tributary of the Li River transports you deep into the mystical mountain landscapes of Guilin.
- 6 UNESCO World Heritage Sites
Day 1 - Welcome to Beijing!
Check in to the 5-star, city-center Sofitel Hotel.
Day 2 - Explore Imperial Beijing
Today’s in-depth sightseeing focuses on the Imperial monuments of the capital. Stand in Tiananmen Square, one of the largest and grandest public plazas in the world. Then explore the sprawling Forbidden City , a grand complex of palaces, courtyards and pavilions. Marvel at the Temple of Heaven , an extraordinary Ming Dynasty achievement of architecture, aesthetic and engineering and then tour the tranquil Summer Palace , erstwhile seasonal retreat of China’s Emperors and Empresses.
Meals B,L
Day 3 - Great Wall & Ming Tombs Excursion
Journey into the rugged hills outside of the capital to the Great Wall . A cable car ride promises magnificent views of this ancient defensive structure and the surrounding mountain landscape. Then walk atop the Great Wall for an unforgettable experience. Stroll along the statue-lined Sacred Way to visit Changling Tomb, one of the greatest of the celebrated Ming Tombs . Back in the city, you’ll see the iconic venues of the 2008 Summer Olympics.
Meals B,L
Day 4 - Fly to Xian
This morning, you’ll be escorted to the airport for your flight to Xian, the ancient capital of China for 13 dynasties. Upon arrival, visit the ancient City Walls and ride a bike atop this imposing fortification for terrific views over the historic heart of Xian. This evening’s festive Dumpling Dinner is a great opportunity to try this local favorite. Overnight at the 5-star Shangri-La Golden Flower Hotel.
Meals B,D
Day 5 - The Terra Cotta Warriors and on to Guilin
Visit the excavation site of China’s greatest archaeological discovery, where a terra cotta army – thousands strong – was buried 2,000 years ago to guard the tomb of an emperor. At the Terra Cotta Warriors Museum, you’ll gain deeper insight into this fascinating chapter of ancient China. Later in the afternoon, fly to Guilin where you’ll be met and escorted to the deluxe Sheraton Hotel.
Meals B,L
Day 6 - Cruise to Yangshuo
The ethereal landscapes of Guilin have inspired Chinese artists and poets for centuries, and over the next two days special activities have been planned to immerse you more deeply in the breathtaking beauty and timeless traditions of the region. Your day begins at scenic Fubo Hill and continues past the aptly named Elephant Trunk Hill to the Tea Research Institute. After lunch, your specially arranged bamboo rafting excursion takes you down the Yulong River into the very heart of Guilin’s celebrated scenery. A scenic walk along rice paddies and fields cultivated for generations brings you to a farmer’s home for an engaging encounter with local life in the countryside. Later in the day, you’ll have free time explore the colorful Yangshuo Bazaar at your own pace. At the inviting Green Lotus Hotel, riverview rooms have been reserved for your overnight accommodations.
Meals B,L
Day 7 - On to Shanghai
A scenic morning drive brings you back to the Guilin airport for your flight to Shanghai. Upon arrival, you’ll be warmly greeted and escorted to the 5-star Hilton Hotel, perfectly located by the historic French Concession.
Meals B
Day 8 - Shanghai sightseeing
Delightful full-day sightseeing begins with a drive along the Bund, the city’s historic waterfront boulevard. Visit the Old City Bazaar and stroll with your guide in the tranquil Yu Yuan Garden, laid out centuries ago by a Ming Dynasty official as a calming retreat for his aging parents. Marvel at the iconic 21st century skyscrapers in the vibrant Pudong District and then explore the respected collection of the Shanghai Museum. This evening, you’ll enjoy a wonderful Farewell Dinner of regional specialties.
Meals B,L,D
Day 9 - Farewell Shanghai
Your tour ends today after breakfast.
Meals B
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