From Metropolis to Earth Castles: Hong Kong, Xiamen & Hakka Culture
A 15-Day Journey Through Imperial History, Natural Beauty & Urban Dynamism
Day 1: Arrival in Beijing
Welcome to China! Upon arrival at Beijing airport, our guide will greet you and assist with your transfer to the hotel. The remainder of the day is free for you to rest or begin exploring at your leisure after your international flight.
Day 2: Beijing's Imperial Legacy
Begin your China exploration at Tian'anmen Square, then delve into the magnificent Forbidden City - the 600-year imperial palace complex featuring intricate Chinese architecture and royal relics. Enjoy a special welcome lunch featuring Peking Roast Duck. This afternoon, visit the beautiful Yonghe Temple, a former royal mansion turned Tibetan Buddhist monastery, followed by the Temple of Heaven where emperors once prayed for prosperity.
Day 3: Great Wall Adventure & Hutong Culture
Visit the majestic Mutianyu Great Wall, one of China's best-preserved sections. A round-trip cable car ride saves energy while offering spectacular views. Afterward, view the iconic Bird's Nest stadium before experiencing traditional Beijing life with a rickshaw ride through historic Hutong alleys, including a visit to a local family's courtyard home.
Day 4: Royal Gardens & High-Speed to Xi'an
Explore the Summer Palace, the largest existing royal garden featuring beautiful lakes, corridors, and traditional architecture. In the afternoon, experience China's modern infrastructure with a high-speed train journey to Xi'an (approximately 4.5-6 hours), where you'll be transferred to your hotel upon arrival.
Day 5: Terracotta Warriors & Tang Dynasty Culture
Discover the incredible Terracotta Army Museum, featuring life-size warriors and horses guarding Emperor Qin Shi Huang's tomb. Meet the discoverer's family and create your own mini terracotta figure. Later, admire the 1,300-year-old Giant Wild Goose Pagoda and immerse yourself in Tang Dynasty culture at the Great Tang All Day Mall with its traditional architecture and performances.
Day 6: Xi'an's Ancient Walls & Muslim Quarter
Join locals at City Wall Park for morning exercises before ascending the 600-year-old City Wall. Visit the Great Mosque, blending Chinese and Islamic architecture, and explore the bustling Muslim Quarter. Discover the less-crowded but fascinating Han Yang Ling Museum before flying to picturesque Guilin.
Day 7: Li River Cruise & Yangshuo Countryside
Embark on a scenic Li River cruise from Guilin to Yangshuo, enjoying breathtaking karst landscapes reflected in emerald waters. Upon arrival, check into your hotel before exploring Yangshuo's stunning countryside by bicycle, passing through elegant peaks and vast fields.
Day 8: Yangshuo Leisure Day
Enjoy a full free day to further explore Yangshuo's beautiful surroundings. Cycle along the Ten-mile Gallery to see the Big Banyan Tree and Moon Hill, or stroll through Yangshuo town visiting West Street with its local cuisine, shops, and vibrant nightlife.
Day 9: Journey to Chongqing & Yangtze Cruise
Return to Guilin by road before taking a high-speed train to Chongqing (approximately 5 hours). Upon arrival, transfer to board your Yangtze River cruise ship, where you'll settle in and enjoy the Captain's Welcome Party.
Day 10: Yangtze River & Cultural Activities
Begin your day with Tai Chi exercises on board. Participate in the included shore excursion to either Fengdu's "Ghost City" or ShuangGui Mountain. Enjoy various cultural activities and entertainment options available on the cruise throughout the day.
Day 11: Spectacular Three Gorges
Today's highlight is passing through the magnificent Three Gorges: Qutang Gorge, Wu Gorge, and Xiling Gorge. Marvel at towering peaks, jagged rocks, and steep cliffs. Take an afternoon shore excursion to Shennv Stream in the Three Little Gorges, exploring this remote area by eco-friendly ferry.
Day 12: Three Gorges Dam & Journey to Suzhou
Disembark in Yichang and visit the massive Three Gorges Dam, the world's largest hydroelectric power project. Afterwards, take a high-speed train to Suzhou (approximately 6 hours) and transfer to your hotel.
Day 13: Classical Gardens & Water Towns
Explore Suzhou's renowned classical gardens starting with the Humble Administrator's Garden, the largest and most famous in the city. Visit the adjacent Suzhou Museum with its rich collection of artifacts. Continue to Tongli Water Town, a "living" ancient town with canals, bridges, and traditional architecture, before driving to Shanghai.
Day 14: Shanghai's Contrasts
Discover Shanghai's blend of tradition and modernity at the Shanghai Museum with its extensive art collections. Visit the elegant Yu Garden and surrounding Yuyuan Bazaar. Enjoy a farewell lunch featuring Shanghai and Cantonese cuisine. Take a Huangpu River cruise showcasing colonial architecture and modern skyscrapers, then stroll along the Bund waterfront. Conclude at Tianzifang, an artistic area preserving old Shanghai architecture.
Day 15: Departure from Shanghai
Transfer to Shanghai airport for your homebound flight, carrying with you unforgettable memories of China's diverse wonders.