Upon arrival at Terminal 3, the second largest terminal building in the world, Beijing Capital International Airport, you will be greeted by your guide(s) and transferred to the hotel in the evening. Observe and revel at the amazing city lights and make sure to be well rested for tomorrow, which is your official first day of exploring Beijing and all of its beauty. Chang An Grand Hotel (5 stars)
The first day of your journey begins with a wake-up call arranged by the tour guide. Enjoy an American breakfast 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 - Tian’anmen 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). Thereafter, you will 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.
Today you will begin the morning by setting out to 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 borders 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. After lunch, you will tour the exterior portion of the Beijing National Stadium, also familiar to the world as the Bird’s Nest and the home to the 2008 Olympics. The stadium designed by an architecture firm in Switzerland implemented the world’s largest structure built out of steel. 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.
Another spectacular day is here! Today you will visit the Temple of Heaven where the Chinese Emperors of the Ming and Qing dynasties would go to pray for bountiful harvests. It was a critical task for all emperors to perform rituals and tasks in order for his empire to reap successful harvests and good fortune. Capture the detailed essence of all the rich colors blended together on the hand painted tiles and roofing of the structures. After lunch, you will fly to Yichang and board M.V. Century Star, one of the best 5-star cruise ships on the river.All cabins are outside cabins with a private balcony.
Click here to view the cruise line's website about Century Star
Flight Detail: Approximate flight time via Air China is 2 hours
In the morning, depart from Yichang and set sail into Xiling Gorge (the longest at 41 miles). Then take a land excursion to the Three Gorges Dam Site. It is the world's largest dam, 1.7 mile long and 220 feet high, and the largest electricity-generating plant of any kind. The dam body was completed in 2006. All of the originally planned components of the project were completed on October 30, 2008. The project produces hydroelectricity, increases the river's navigation capacity, and reduces the potential for floods downstream by providing flood storage space. From completion until September 2009 the dam has generated 348.4 TWh of electricity, covering more than one third of its project cost. There were over 1.2 million people immigrated to other parts of the country in order to complete the project.
In the afternoon, sail through the five-step ship lock. There will be a Captain's Welcoming Party in the early evening. A Crew Cabaret will be hosted after dinner.
In the early morning, sail through Wu Gorge, which is 25 miles long and well known for its 12 forest-covered peaks and quiet beauty with ever-changing sceneries. Then take an exciting excursion through Daning River Lesser Gorge, which is much narrower than the Three Gorges. In the afternoon, sail through Qutang Gorge, the shortest (5 miles), narrowest (500 feet) and the most dramatic one.
Take a land excursion to Fengdu Snow Jade Cave, a newly discovered cave rated as the most beautiful in China by Chinese National Geographic. It’s a budding cave full of snow and jade-like stalactite and stalagmite with amazing shapes. After the land excursion, there are various cultural programs you may attend on the ship. The evening includes a Farewell Dinner.
After breakfast, disembark in Chongqing, the picturesque “Mountain City,” previously known as China’s wartime capital during the Second World War. Before hopping on a train to Chengdu, visit the Stillwell Museum, which formerly housed General Stillwell, who was Commander of the US forces in the China-Burma-India Theater and chief of staff to Chiang Kaishek in 1942. Tibet Hotel (5 stars)
Visit the Panda Research Institute and Breeding Center to watch these lovable and charismatic creatures live their life. You will get a glimpse of the pandas during feeding hours and see them indulge in their favorite past time – sleeping. People have the opportunity to take pictures sitting with the pandas or even holding the baby pandas at additional cost. You will keep these picture as life long memories. After lunch, a plane will whisk you away to your next destination of Xi’an. Xi’an progressively became one of the world’s most prosperous cities over time and has been considered a favorite to tourists for its quaint and attractive atmosphere.Make sure to get some rest and relaxation and prepare for the next day’s adventure. Empark Grand Hotel (5 stars)
Today you will be given ample time to tour the exhibit of the historical Terracotta Warriors belonging to the era when the infamous Emperor Qin Shihuang had 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 lead 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 see not only the existing warriors and horses but also can be lucky to witness some of the greatest new discoveries while the archeologists are digging the vaults in front of you. 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!
Today your day will start with a spectacular city tour of Xi’an ancient City Wall. The City Wall is one of the oldest walls in 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 airport and there will be a flight scheduled to take you to Guilin. Be prepared for a city recognized for its stunning landscapes and captivating lifestyles of the people who call this enchanting place “home.” Tourists will regret for missing to be soaked with Guilin's most amazing beauty if their China vacation just only left a wonderful memories of thousands-year historic Great Wall in Beijing and Terracotta Warriors and Horses in Xian. Guilin is a must see! Guilin Plaza Hotel (4 stars)
This morning you will travel by a deluxe motor coach to the Reed Flute Cave, Lu Di Yan, another popular scenic spot in Guilin. Pay attention to the music the vendors make 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. Soon after, a special Tea Banquet lunch awaits you. Thereafter, you will visit the Solitary Beauty Peak which is located at the center of Guilin. The climb up the 306 stone steps to the top of the peak is brief and gives you a panoramic view of the great splendor of Guilin.
Guilin is said as "the best scenery under heaven" for its unique karst limestone creating the picturesque beauty. 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 cruise passing through the scenic landscapes of Yangshuo which allows you to witness the unique Elephant Trunk Hill and the exact location of where the image of the $20 Yuan note was photographed along the Li River. 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 for you 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 your bargaining skills and have fun! There is also an 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. New West Street International Hotel (5 stars)
Disclosure: The “Liu Sa Jie” evening show choreographed by Zhang Yimou will be unavailable if weather does not permit.
A deluxe motor coach will take you to Guilin in the morning. Thereafter, an arranged flight will whisk you away to Shanghai, Upon arrival you will then be transferred to a deluxe motor coach to a city nicknamed the “Venice of the Orient.” The remainder of the day is free to explore the city at your own pace, go shopping or simply relax. Su Yuan Hotel (4 stars)
Flight Detail: Approximate flight time via Air China is 2 hours
Indulge in the magnificent waterside architecture along with gorgeous gardens prevalent in Suzhou. Enjoy a canal ride on the Grand Canal. Notice the criss-cross with canals and watch the daily traditional lifestyle of the locals that live in this graceful wonderland. You will visit Garden of the Master of the Nets. Shortly after you will be taken to the original Silk Spinning Factory where you will learn the true art form of silk production. Travel by deluxe motor coach to Hangzhou. Culture Plaza Hotel (4 stars)
In the morning you will take a cruise on the West Lake, revealing the ethereal beauty of Hangzhou’s willow draped islands. Travel by motor coach into the nearby hills and visit the resplendent Yellow Dragon Cave. Although the name claims that it is a “cave,” it is actually a yard encompassed of half natural and half artificial scenery. Search for the stone beside a pond that reveals eight Chinese characters inscribed which portrays the significant meaning “If there is a dragon pond, it will be charming. So, the depth of the pond is unimportant.” Shortly afterwards, you will travel by deluxe motor coach to visit an exclusive Tea Plantation. Here you will get a chance to learn the tea brewing techniques, taste the popular Dragon Well Tea and meet the infamous “Number ONE tea packer” in Hangzhou and possibly all of China. Travel by deluxe motor coach to Shanghai. Central View Suites Hotel (4 Stars)
ENJOY! You will have a full day tour beginning with a visit to the Bund, which stretches a mile long at the bank of Huangpu River. The Shanghai Bund consists of 52 buildings with amazing architecture as well as several other historical buildings surrounding the area. After a special Mongolian BBQ Lunch, tour the Oriental Pearl TV Tower and the Shanghai Municipal History Wax Museum.
Lastly, shop the emporium-lined Nanjing Road. After dinner, attend the
famous and memorable Shanghai Acrobatic Show. The talented pool of
performers will captivate you with their mind-blowing abilities.
In this tour you will find the most comprehensive introduction to China that is possible in three weeks. This tour is unmatched in breadth and value, visiting nine cities spread throughout China and embarking on a cruise of the Three Gorges aboard a luxurious Five-Star cruise ship, Century Star. In addition to the Three Gorges, this tour visits the ancient Terracotta Warriors in Xi'an, the enchanting landscape of Guilin and Yangshuo, as well as Hangzhou, and Suzhou, two cities of great and ancient beauty located on the Yangtze River delta. With additional sightseeing in and around Beijing and in the flourishing city of Shanghai, this tour offers an unsurpassed and ultimate China experience.
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Tour Fare Includes:
* Air China round from SFO or JFK, China domestic flights and transportation between cities.
* Luxury and first class 4 or 5 star hotel accommodation. All outside cabin with private balcony on one of the best 5-star cruise.
* Comprehensive tours including entrance fees.
* American buffet breakfast, Chinese lunch and dinner daily except one free day (American breakfast only) in Shanghai.
* Delicious culinary events: Peking Duck dinner, Guilin Tea Banquet, Xian Dumpling Banquet and Shanghai Mongolian
Barbecue buffet lunch.
* Special evening shows includes: Tang Dynasty Music & Dance Show plus a breathtaking Shanghai Acrobatic Show.
* Memorable experience of maglev train ride in Shanghai for SFO departures only.
* Professional tour manager throughout China for a group of 10 participants or more.
* Professional local guide service in each city.
* Baggage handling service throughout trip.
EARLY BIRD DISCOUNT $200 per person off listing price. View Tour Dates & Prices for more detail.
Tea Plantation, Hangzhou
