Imperial Capitals & Panda Sanctuaries
Rediscovering Ancient Capitals and Natural Wonders
Day 1: Arrival in Shanghai - Gateway to Modern China
Independent Arrival and Urban Orientation
After arriving in Shanghai, proceed independently to our selected hotel. Transportation options include metro lines from both Pudong and Hongqiao airports, with detailed routing provided. Essential app recommendations include Alipay for payments and Didi for ride-hailing services. Our comprehensive travel logistics ensure seamless transportation and accommodation arrangements throughout your journey.
Day 2: Shanghai Exploration - Blending Tradition and Modernity
Self-Guided Discovery of Shanghai's Contrasts
Begin with a walk to Yuyuan Garden, a serene Ming Dynasty garden featuring the remarkable Exquisite Jade Rock. Explore the adjacent Yuyuan Bazaar and City God Temple, sampling local delicacies like Small Steamed Buns. Experience modern Shanghai at Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street, then witness the spectacular contrast between colonial architecture and futuristic skyscrapers during an evening Bund cruise.
Day 3: Journey to Yichang - Gateway to the Three Gorges
High-Speed Rail Transition to River Country
Take our pre-booked bullet train from Shanghai to Yichang, a 6.5-hour journey through changing landscapes. Upon arrival, transfer to the Three Gorges Tourist Center to board your 5-star Victoria cruise ship. Prepare for upstream navigation through China's most dramatic river scenery.
Day 4: Yangtze River Majesty - Xiling Gorge and Engineering Marvel
Natural Wonders and Human Achievement
Wake to the stunning Xiling Gorge, the longest of the Three Gorges, with dramatic peaks and rock formations. After lunch, embark on a guided shore excursion to the Three Gorges Dam, the world's largest water-control project. Witness ships navigating the five-tier locks system before enjoying evening cultural activities and the Captain's Welcome Reception.
Day 5: Gorgeous Passages - Shennong Stream and Dramatic Canyons
Intimate Waterways and Cultural Encounters
Transfer by traditional sampan boats to explore the narrow Shennong Stream, observing local trackers demonstrating ancient boat-pulling techniques. Experience the mystical Wu Gorge with its six mist-shrouded peaks, followed by the dramatic Qutang Gorge, where vertical cliffs create a narrow natural passage. Evening entertainment features folk performances and Sichuan Opera.
Day 6: Cultural Preservation - Xiaoguanshan Folk Park
Preserving Pre-Reservoir Heritage
Visit the Xiaoguanshan Folk Culture Park, featuring reconstructed ancient houses that showcase local architecture before the Three Gorges Reservoir construction. Enjoy leisurely afternoon river views and cultural activities before celebrating your cruise journey at the Captain's Farewell Dinner.
Day 7: Mountain City to Ancient Capital - Chongqing to Xi'an
Urban Exploration and High-Speed Transition
After disembarking in Chongqing, explore the remarkable Hongya Cave stilt house complex and sample local cuisine like Wanza Noodles. Take our pre-arranged high-speed train to Xi'an, arriving at your hotel in the evening.
Day 8: Terracotta Warriors and Tang Dynasty Heritage
Mini Group Exploration of Ancient Capital
Your guided tour begins at the Terracotta Army Museum, encountering thousands of life-sized warriors in three excavation pits. Visit the Giant Wild Goose Pagoda, housing Buddhist scriptures from India, then ascend Xi'an's impressive City Wall. Conclude at the vibrant Muslim Quarter for local street food exploration.
Day 9: Capital Bound - High-Speed to Beijing
Rail Journey to Imperial Center
Take the 5.5-hour high-speed train to Beijing, transitioning from ancient capital to imperial center. Independent transfer to your hotel upon arrival, preparing for two days of intensive historical exploration.
Day 10: Imperial Grandeur - Tiananmen, Forbidden City and Great Wall
Comprehensive Beijing Highlights Tour
Begin at Tiananmen Square before entering the magnificent Forbidden City, exploring imperial halls and courtyards along the central axis. Journey to Mutianyu Great Wall, hiking between beacon towers with optional cable car assistance. Evening options include exploring Hutong alleys and Houhai Lake's nightlife.
Day 11: Spiritual Beijing - Temple of Heaven and Imperial Gardens
Cultural Immersion and Traditional Lifestyles
Experience morning exercises at the Temple of Heaven before testing the remarkable Echo Wall. Enjoy a rickshaw ride through Hutong alleys, visit the Tibetan Buddhist Lama Temple, and explore the expansive Summer Palace with its Marble Boat and Longevity Hill.
Day 12: Departure - Farewell to Imperial China
Independent Transfers and Journey Conclusion
Check out and proceed independently to Beijing Capital or Daxing International Airport, with detailed transportation instructions provided. Conclude your 12-day immersion in China's imperial history and natural wonders. ```