China's Artistic Heartland & Heavenly Peaks
An Immersive Exploration of China's Cultural Treasures and Natural Wonders
Introduction
This comprehensive 14-day journey takes you through China's most iconic destinations, from imperial palaces to the mighty Yangtze River. Experience the perfect blend of ancient traditions and modern developments while enjoying exclusive access to cultural treasures and natural wonders that define this fascinating nation.
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Beijing
Your China adventure begins with a warm welcome at Beijing Airport. After clearing customs, your professional guide will greet you and transfer you to your hotel for a three-night stay. We recommend relaxing during the remainder of the day to recover from jet lag and prepare for the incredible experiences ahead.
Accommodation: Hotel New Otani Chang Fu Gong
Day 2: Beijing Imperial Heritage
Today's exploration covers Beijing's most significant historical sites: - Visit Tiananmen Square, the world's largest city square - Explore the magnificent Forbidden City, including exclusive access to the Treasure Gallery - Enjoy an à la carte welcome lunch featuring authentic Peking Duck - Discover the architectural marvel of Temple of Heaven - Conclude the day with a spectacular Chinese Acrobatic Show
Meals: Western buffet breakfast, À la carte welcome lunch
Accommodation: Hotel New Otani Chang Fu Gong
Day 3: Great Wall Adventure & Local Culture
Experience China's most iconic landmark and traditional Beijing life: - Journey to Mutianyu Great Wall with round-trip cable car access - Celebrate your Great Wall achievement with a special red wine toast - Drive by the Olympic Bird's Nest Stadium - Embark on a rickshaw tour through ancient Hutong alleys - Visit a local family in a traditional courtyard house
Meals: Western buffet breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel New Otani Chang Fu Gong
Day 4: Beijing to Xi'an
Final Beijing explorations before heading to the ancient capital: - Observe giant pandas during their most active hours at Beijing Zoo - Explore the beautiful Summer Palace imperial garden - Enjoy a local flavor lunch before your flight to Xi'an - Settle into your hotel for a three-night stay in the historic city
Meals: Western buffet breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: Crowne Plaza Xi'an
Day 5: Terracotta Warriors & Tang Dynasty Splendor
Uncover the mysteries of ancient China: - Marvel at the incredible Terracotta Army - Enjoy exclusive access to visit the home of the discoverer of the first terracotta warrior - Create your own mini terracotta warrior in a hands-on workshop - Visit the historic Giant Wild Goose Pagoda - Experience a dumpling dinner and Tang Dynasty Music and Dance Show
Meals: Western buffet breakfast, Dumpling dinner
Accommodation: Crowne Plaza Xi'an
Day 6: Xi'an Cultural Immersion
Discover the living traditions of Xi'an: - Practice Tai Chi with a master at City Wall Park - Explore the impressive ancient City Wall - Savor local delicacies at the vibrant Muslim Quarter - Visit the tranquil Great Mosque and renowned Shaanxi History Museum
Meals: Western buffet breakfast, Local flavor lunch
Accommodation: Crowne Plaza Xi'an
Day 7: Journey to Chengdu
Travel to the homeland of giant pandas: - Take a comfortable high-speed train to Chengdu - Check into your conveniently located hotel - Enjoy free time to explore nearby attractions like Taikoo Li and Chunxi Road - Sample famous Sichuan cuisine at your leisure
Meals: Western buffet breakfast
Accommodation: Holiday Inn Chengdu Oriental Plaza
Day 8: Panda Encounter & Chengdu Lifestyle
Experience Chengdu's unique charm: - Observe adorable giant pandas at their research base - Explore the traditional Wide and Narrow Alleys - Discover ancient history at Jinsha Site Museum - Experience local tea culture at Renmin Park - Witness the fascinating Chinese matchmaking corner
Meals: Western buffet breakfast
Accommodation: Holiday Inn Chengdu Oriental Plaza
Day 9: Yangtze River Cruise Embarkation
Begin your majestic river journey: - Travel to Chongqing via high-speed train - Explore Jiefangbei CBD and ancient Ci Qi Kou village - Board the luxurious Century Oasis cruise ship - Enjoy a welcome dinner and Captain's wine party
Meals: Western buffet breakfast, Buffet dinner
Cruises: Century Oasis
Day 10: Yangtze River Exploration
First full day of cruising and cultural discovery: - Shore excursion to the mysterious Ghost City in Fengdu - Participate in onboard cultural activities and lectures - Enjoy full buffet meals and midnight snacks - Relax while sailing through stunning landscapes
Meals: Full board buffet style
Cruises: Century Oasis
Day 11: Three Gorges & Shennv Stream
The highlight of your river journey: - Sail through the spectacular Three Gorges - Take a sampan tour along the poetic Shennv Stream - Learn about local Tujia minority culture - Enjoy evening cultural performances onboard
Meals: Full board buffet style
Cruises: Century Oasis
Day 12: Three Gorges Dam & Journey to Shanghai
Conclude your cruise and travel to China's modern metropolis: - Visit the monumental Three Gorges Dam project - Disembark and travel to Shanghai via high-speed train - Settle into your hotel in China's most cosmopolitan city
Meals: Western buffet breakfast
Accommodation: Radisson Blu Hotel Shanghai New World (2025 tours) / The Sunrise on the Bund (2026 & 2027 tours)
Day 13: Shanghai Highlights
Explore the contrasts of traditional and modern Shanghai: - Discover ancient art at Shanghai Museum - Wander through the classical Yu Garden - Enjoy an à la carte farewell lunch featuring Shanghai cuisine - Cruise along Huangpu River for stunning skyline views - Capture memorable photos at the iconic Bund
Meals: Western buffet breakfast, À la carte farewell lunch
Accommodation: Radisson Blu Hotel Shanghai New World (2025 tours) / The Sunrise on the Bund (2026 & 2027 tours)
Day 14: Departure
Conclude your remarkable China journey with breakfast and hotel check-out. Transfer to Shanghai Pudong or Hongqiao International Airport for your homeward flight, carrying unforgettable memories of China's diverse landscapes and rich cultural heritage.
Meals: Western buffet breakfast