China's Grand Tapestry: Tibet & The Yangtze
A Seamless Adventure Blending Imperial History, Highland Spirit, and River Serenity
This meticulously crafted 14-day itinerary is a quintessential exploration of China's most iconic wonders. It masterfully weaves together the imperial grandeur of ancient capitals, the profound spiritual atmosphere of the Tibetan plateau, and the breathtaking scenery of the Yangtze River. Designed for a trouble-free experience, it includes expert guidance, worry-free Tibet permit arrangements, and a harmonious balance of cultural immersion, gentle adventure, and relaxing cruise travel.
Part 1: The Imperial Capitals - Beijing & Xi'an
Begin your journey in the political and cultural heart of China, exploring the legendary monuments of Beijing before traveling to the ancient capital of Xi'an to witness its unparalleled archaeological treasures.
Day 1: Arrival in Beijing
Accommodation: Sunworld Hotel Beijing Wangfujing ★★★★
Meals: No Meals
Upon your arrival at the Beijing airport, you will be greeted by your tour guide and transferred to your hotel. The remainder of the day is free for you to relax and recover from your journey at your own pace.
Day 2: Beijing's Imperial Heart
Accommodation: Sunworld Hotel Beijing Wangfujing ★★★★
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Your exploration begins at the vast Tiananmen Square. From there, you will walk into the magnificent Forbidden City, the world's largest and most complete imperial palace complex. A short hike up Jingshan Park offers a stunning panoramic view of the palace grounds. In the afternoon, visit the Temple of Heaven, where emperors once prayed for bountiful harvests, followed by some browsing time at the lively Panjiayuan Antique Market. In the evening, ask your guide for recommendations for a classic Peking duck dinner.
Day 3: The Great Wall & Olympic Legacy
Accommodation: Sunworld Hotel Beijing Wangfujing ★★★★
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Today is dedicated to one of the world's most iconic sights: the Mutianyu Great Wall. You can choose to hike or take a cable car to access this beautifully restored section. After lunch, you will return to the city to view the exteriors of the renowned Olympic structures, the Bird's Nest and the Water Cube.
Day 4: Local Life & Journey to Xi'an
Accommodation: Somerset Xindicheng Xi'an ★★★★
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Experience a different side of Beijing with a relaxing rickshaw ride through the traditional Hutongs, offering a glimpse into the city's local life and architecture. Afterwards, explore the serene Summer Palace, a masterpiece of Chinese landscape garden design, and enjoy a boat ride on Kunming Lake. In the afternoon, you will be transferred to the railway station to board a comfortable high-speed train to the ancient city of Xi'an.
Day 5: Xi'an's Terracotta Army
Accommodation: Somerset Xindicheng Xi'an ★★★★
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
The highlight of the day is a visit to the extraordinary Terracotta Warriors and Horses, a life-sized army built to guard China's first emperor in the afterlife. In the afternoon, walk or bike along the massive Ancient City Wall, one of the oldest and best-preserved in China. The day concludes with a visit to the vibrant Muslim Quarter, a fantastic place for shopping and sampling local snacks. An optional Tang Dynasty Show with dinner is highly recommended for the evening.
Part 2: The Mystical Roof of the World - Lhasa, Tibet
Fly to the high-altitude city of Lhasa for a spiritual and cultural immersion into Tibetan Buddhism, exploring majestic palaces and sacred monasteries in this unique and captivating land.
Day 6: Ascend to Lhasa
Accommodation: Four Points by Sheraton Lhasa ★★★★
Meals: Breakfast
Take a morning flight to the holy city of Lhasa. Upon arrival, your Tibetan guide will transfer you to your hotel. The key to today is to rest, relax, and acclimatize to the high altitude. A gentle walk around the vicinity of your hotel is encouraged.
Day 7: Lhasa's Spiritual Centers
Accommodation: Four Points by Sheraton Lhasa ★★★★
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Today's journey into Tibetan culture begins at the awe-inspiring Potala Palace, the former winter residence of the Dalai Lama and a defining symbol of Tibet. After lunch at a local Tibetan restaurant, you will visit the sacred Jokhang Monastery, the most revered religious site in Tibet. Your day ends with a walk through the bustling Barkhor Street, a pilgrim circuit and a vibrant market.
Day 8: Monasteries of Lhasa
Accommodation: Four Points by Sheraton Lhasa ★★★★
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Explore three more of Lhasa's significant sites. Visit the Drepung Monastery, once one of the world's largest monasteries, and the Norbulingka Park, the former summer palace of the Dalai Lama. In the afternoon, witness the captivating Buddhist philosophical debates among the monks at the Sera Monastery.
Part 3: The Mighty Yangtze River & Modern Metropolis
Descend from the Tibetan plateau to embark on a relaxing cruise through the stunning Three Gorges, before concluding your journey in the dazzling, futuristic city of Shanghai.
Day 9: To Chongqing & Embarkation
On Board: Victoria Cruise ★★★★★
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Fly to the mountainous city of Chongqing. Your tour includes visits to Eling Park for panoramic city views, the famous Liziba Station to see the train passing through a residential building, and the stunning stilted buildings of Hongya Cave. In the evening, you will be transferred to the Chaotianmen wharf to board your luxurious Victoria Cruise, setting sail on the Yangtze River.
Day 10: Yangtze River Scenery
On Board: Victoria Cruise ★★★★★
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Enjoy a full day of scenic cruising. A shore excursion is included to the Fengdu Shuanguishan National Park. Optional excursions are available to the Fengdu Ghost City and an evening cultural performance, "Romance of the Three Kingdoms." The day includes a Captain's Welcome Reception and buffet dinner.
Day 11: The Three Gorges
On Board: Victoria Cruise ★★★★★
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Today, you will sail through the dramatic landscapes of the Three Gorges. An optional morning excursion to the White Emperor City is available. You will then cruise through the short but majestic Qutang Gorge and the serene, forest-clad Wu Gorge. In the afternoon, transfer to a smaller boat for an excursion up the beautiful Goddess Stream (or similar). The evening features a Captain's Farewell Banquet.
Day 12: Three Gorges Dam & High-Speed to Shanghai
Accommodation: Sunrise On The Bund Hotel ★★★★
Meals: Breakfast
After disembarking, you will visit the monumental Three Gorges Dam, the largest hydroelectric power station in the world. You will then be transferred to Yichang to board a high-speed train to the final destination of your tour, the cosmopolitan hub of Shanghai.
Day 13: Exploring Shanghai
Accommodation: Sunrise On The Bund Hotel ★★★★
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Discover the blend of traditional and ultra-modern in Shanghai. Visit the serene Jade Buddha Temple and see the iconic Oriental Pearl TV Tower from the Riverside Promenade. Explore the classical Yuyuan Garden and browse the nearby Shanghai Old Street. The day culminates with a stroll along the famous Bund, with its spectacular display of colonial and modern architecture. An optional Acrobatic Show is a perfect way to spend your final evening.
Day 14: Departure from Shanghai
Meals: Breakfast
Enjoy a free morning at leisure for some last-minute exploration or souvenir shopping. You will then be transferred to Shanghai Pudong International Airport for your departure flight, marking the end of this incredible journey through China.