Life Experience 2012 (LE12) - 13 Day
- Day 1 - Depart SFO/JFK to Beijing
- Day 2 - Arrive Beijing
- Day 3 - Beijing
- Day 4 - Beijing
- Day 5 - Beijing to Xian
- Day 6 - Xian
- Day 7 - Xian to Guilin
- Day 8 - Guilin to Yangshuo
- Day 9 - Yangshuo to Guilin to Shanghai
- Day 10 - Shanghai
- Day 11 - Suzhou and Tongli Day Excursion
- Day 12 - Shanghai
- Day 13 - Shanghai to SFO/JFK
Day 1 - Depart SFO/JFK to Beijing
Meals: In-Flight Meal
Embark on a memorable journey when you board Air China's non-stop flight to Beijing. En route, cross the International Dateline and lose one day.
Flight Detail: SFO to Beijing is 12 hours non-stop. JFK to Beijing is 13.5 hours non-stop. Air China's Flight Schedule
Day 2 - Arrive Beijing
Meals: In-Flight Meal
Arriving at Beijing Capital International Airport Terminal 3 at 5:55 pm local time. You will be greeted by our experienced tour guide(s) outside the customs and they will transfer you to Sheraton Hotel, one of the newest and best hotels available in Beijing. On the way to the hotel, your guide(s) will briefly introduce themselves to you and provide you with some important information regarding your trip.
Day 3 - Beijing
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Special Dinner
The first day of your journey begins with a wake-up call arranged by the tour guide. Enjoy a delectable American breakfast buffet before starting your day. A deluxe motor coach and your devoted tour guide(s) are ready for your memorable trip. Your first peek into the capital city of Beijing begins with a tour to the world's largest and renowned public square where many historical events once took place - Tiananmen Square. Around the vast square, you can see The Great Hall of People, holding the congress of the Communist Party and National People's Congress, History Museum, Military Museum and Monuments to the People's heroes. When available, you can visit Mao's Mausoleum, where his body is in a crystal coffin. Under the famous Mao's portrait, which is positioned at the center of "The Gate of Heavenly Peace" entrance, you will walk into the Forbidden City (also known as Imperial Palace), which holds 9,999 rooms. Experience the intricate architecture and exquisitely designed layout of these grand buildings once housed by Chinese Emperors who ruled during the period of the Qing and Ming Dynasties for almost 500 years (1420-1911). After lunch, you will visit a pearl factory before you partake in a tranquil visit to the picturesque landscape of the Summer Palace with historic temples, numerous pavilions, marble boat and famous 728-yard Long Corridor, situated on the man-made Kunming Lake. You will then wrap up the evening with a delicious Peking Duck Dinner at one of the most prestigious restaurants in Beijing recognized for its specialty.
 |
 |
 |
| Tiananmen Square | Summer Palace | Forbidden City |
Day 4 - Beijing
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Today you will begin the morning by setting out to the Sacred Way of the Ming Tomb. Located in the mountains according to Feng Shui principles, this imperial mausoleum is a site not to be missed. Tour the exterior portion of the tombs that include the "Spirit Way," a seven kilometer road lined with statues of mythical animals and officials to guard the 13 emperors buried in this necropolis. You will visit a jade factory on the way.
After lunch, you will travel to the Mutianyu section of the Great Wall of China, also considered as one of the greatest wonders of the world. This massive wall stretches well over 4,000 miles and once was used as the soldiers' safeguard to protect the Chinese empire's northern boarders against invaders. You then have the opportunity to climb up the mammoth sized wall at your own pace. Be sure to take in the experience and enjoy the breath-taking view from the top of one of the greatest achievements of civilization. Later, you will capture the lifestyles of families residing within the Historic Hutong by rickshaw. The amazing gray brick courtyard residence is Beijing's oldest and remains infused with timeless culture and history. In the mid-1990's, most of the original Hutongs vanished rapidly and was substituted by high-rise buildings and commercial offices.
 |
 |
 |
| The Ming Tombs | The Great Wall | Historic Hutong |
Day 5 - Beijing to Xian
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Visit the Temple of Heaven, built during 1406 to 1420, it was used by Chinese Emperors of Ming and Qing dynasties to pray for bountiful harvests. The Temple of Heaven is a complex of Taoist buildings with some of the most exquisite architectures in Beijing. Capture the detailed essence of all the rich colors blended together on the hand painted tiles and roofing of the structures. This remarkable construction is pledged highest level of Chinese traditional architecture. Today, it has become a popular leisure activity center for the local elders. You will likely bypass people engaged in exercise, tai chi, martial arts, and Chinese opera, as you make your way from the tour bus to the main buildings. After lunch, you will capture the lifestyles of families residing within the Historic Hutong by rickshaw. The amazing gray brick courtyard residence is Beijing's oldest and remains infused with timeless culture and history. In the mid-1990's, most of the original Hutongs vanished rapidly and was substituted by high-rise buildings and commercial offices. A plane will then whisk you away to your next destination of Xian, which was the ancient capital for 11 dynasties and east end of the Silk Road. It was the world's most open and prosperous ancient international metropolitan with a population of over a million before Beijing became the political and economic center of China. It has been also considered a favorite to tourists for experiencing and understanding of this amazing city with its glorious past and splendid progress of today.
 |
 |
 |
| Temple of Heaven | Ribbon Dance in Temple of Heaven Park | The Historic Hutong |
Day 6 - Xian
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Special Dinner
Today you will be given ample time to tour the exhibit of the historical Terracotta Warriors belonging to the era when the infamous Emperor Qing Shihuang reigned. It was in 1974 when a farmer who was merely digging for water came across one of the biggest discoveries of the world which led to the massive excavation of an army of over 7,000 life-size Terracotta Warriors and horses molded by clay. Explore the vast sea of clay warriors in all three vaults. For the next 5 years, visitors will not only see the existing warriors and horses but might get lucky to witness some of the greatest new discoveries while the archeologists are digging the vaults in front of you. You will visit an art ceramics factory on the way to the Terracotta Warriors. Thereafter, you will visit the well-preserved emblem of Xi'an, the Wild Goose Pagoda. The towering 211.6 feet high structure completely made of bricks originated during the Tang Dynasty when Emperor Gaozong once reigned. The day will conclude with a tasteful and creatively prepared Dumpling Feast followed by an exquisite traditional Tang Dynasty Music and Dance Show. The rest of the evening is yours to enjoy!
 |
 |
 |
| Terracotta Warriors | Wild Goose Pagoda | Tang Dynasty Show |
Day 7 - Xian to Guilin
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Today, your day will start with a spectacular city tour of Xi'an's Ancient City Wall. The City Wall is one of the oldest walls of any other city in China and was established during the reign of the first emperor who ruled during the birth of the Qing Dynasty. In the afternoon, you will be transferred to the airport and there will be a flight scheduled to take you to Guilin. Be prepared for a city recognized for its stunning landscape and captivating lifestyles of the people who call this enchanting place "home." Tourist will regret missing the chance to soak in Guilin's amazing beauty. Guilin is a must see!
Flight Detail: Flight from Xi'an to Guilin is approximately 2 hours.
 |
 |
 |
| Ancient City Wall | Xian Bell Tower | Guilin Nightview |
Day 8 - Guilin to Yangshuo
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Guilin is said to be "the best scenery under heaven" for its unique limestone karsts creating the picturesque of the location. This city of surreal beauty is prevalent of aromatic Osmanthus trees and is famous for its hills along the Li River. You will embark on a memorable 3-hour Li River Cruise passing through the scenic landscape of Yangshuo. As the whimsical cruise docks, you will then hop on a trolley that will transport you to your hotel. Take a glimpse of the lush agriculture that surrounds you. The remainder of the day is free to explore on your own. If you are willing and ready to exit the door of your hotel, you will find yourself immersed in a market full of vendors anxiously waiting for you from all directions. Test you bargaining skills and have fun! There is also the option to rent a bicycle or a tuk-tuk to go around the countryside and get an up close and personal look at the hills of Yangshuo and the life of the Chinese residing in this city. Depending on the weather conditions, you will have the choice to partake in an evening show directed by the famous Zhang Yimou who designed the opening and closing ceremonies of the 2008 Beijing Olympics.
 |
 |
 |
| Li River | Yangshuo Countryside | Impression Show |
Day 9 - Yangshuo to Guilin to Shanghai
Meals: Breakfast, Special Lunch, Dinner
A deluxe motor coach will take you to Guilin. Enjoy a visit to the Reed Flute Cave. Pay attention to the music the vendors are making as they blow their flutes constructed from the actual reeds that grow outside the cave. Enjoy the radiating lights that illuminate the natural rock formation and stone pillars along the zigzag pathway within the cave. A Special Tea Banquet will be arranged for you. After lunch, you will take a brief tour of the famous Guilin Tea Research Institute. It was once the royal tea garden for the Ming Dynasty known for its high quality and health benefits. You will witness a demonstration of traditional tea manufacturing techniques done by hand. This evening, a flight to Shanghai awaits you as the day comes to a magical end.
 |
 |
 |
| Reed Flute Cave | Tea Banquet | Tea Farm |
Day 10 - Shanghai
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
You will first begin the day with a visit to the Oriental Pearl TV Tower, Shanghai Municipal History Wax Museum. After lunch, you will take a walking tour along the world renowned Shanghai Bund. This landmark known for its district neo-classic architecture of 52 European style buildings not only lined the Huangpu River but once upon a time housed the most influential financial institutions including national banks that were considered part of the "Big Four." Your walking tour will then end in the old town of Shanghai, the most ancient area of the city, still maintaining it's circular shape as it did centuries ago. You will have some time to explore this area on your own. At the old town of Shanghai, you would find the City God Temple, and the famous Yu Garden (Yuyuan). After attending a mesmerizing Shanghai Acrobatic Show. You will visit a Silk Museum today.
 |
 |
 |
| The Bund | Oriental Pearl TV Tower | Acrobatic Show |
Day 11 - Suzhou and Tongli Day Excursion
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
You will travel by motor coach to a city nicknamed the "Venice of the Orient." Indulge in the magnificent waterside architecture along with gorgeous gardens prevalent in Suzhou. Enjoy a boat ride on the Grand Canal. Notice the crisscrossing canals and watch the daily traditional lifestyle of the locals who live in this graceful wonderland. Upon arrival, you will visit the Master of the Nets Garden, the smallest and most proportional of all the beautiful gardens in Suzhou. Shortly after, you will be taken to the original Silk Spinning Factory, where you will learn the true art form of silk production. On the way back to Shanghai, you will have a short visit to a water town by the name of Tongli. Enjoy the mirror image resembling Venice, Italy which is surrounded by astonishing traditional architecture and 49 exquisitely designed bridges.
 |
 |
 |
| Suzhou Grand Canal | Master of the Nets Garden | Tongli |
Day 12 - Shanghai
Meals: Breakfast
Today is a free day to explore the vibrant culture and lifestyle of Shanghai. Indulge yourself by shopping at the stores along Nanjing Road, which is the main shopping street of Shanghai and one of the world's busiest shopping streets. If you're interested in more sightseeing, then visit the Jade Buddha Temple. It is still an active temple with 70 resident monks who live and work there. Another option is the Yuyuan Garden & Bazaar, which is believed to have been built in the Ming Dynasty over 400 years ago. One of the highlights is the Exquisite Jade Rock that resembles the appearance of jade with its translucent nature and numerous holes caused by water erosion. If you're just looking for a relaxing time, stop by the famous Old Jazz Bar at Peace Hotel. It's open daily from 8pm to 2am where you can enjoy jazz music dating back to the 30's and 40's and experience specially prepared cocktails and Irish or Italian coffee. The local guide will be available to give you directions and advice if you cannot decide what to do. Whatever you choose, you will enjoy the splendors of this magnificent city!
 |
 |
 |
| Yu Garden | Old French Concession | Shanghai Museum |
Day 13 - Shanghai to SFO/JFK
Meals: Breakfast, In-Flight Meal
We hope you enjoyed your time in China and will be leaving this country with endless amounts of stories, memories, and captivating pictures of the entire journey. You will be transferred to the airport and experience the Maglev train at the max speed of 287 mph (only available for SFO departures). Air China will take you home on the same day.
Flight Detail: 16-hour flight of Air China to SFO with stopover in Beijing. 17.5 hours to JFK with a stopover in Beijing. Your luggage will be checked through all the way from Shanghai to USA. You will arrive USA on the same day. Air China Flight Schedule
