China's Grand Voyage: Ancient Kingdoms & Yangtze

Day 1: Arrival in China's Gateway City

Accommodation: Sunrise On The Bund Hotel ★★★★

Arrive at Shanghai International Airport where your personal guide welcomes you. Transfer to your centrally located hotel with stunning Bund views. The remainder of the day is yours to recover from your journey or begin exploring this dynamic metropolis at your own pace.

Day 2: Shanghai's Cultural Treasures

Highlights: Jade Buddha Temple, Oriental Pearl TV Tower exterior, Yuyuan Garden, Shanghai Old Street, The Bund

Morning exploration begins at the serene Jade Buddha Temple, home to priceless Buddhist artifacts. Stroll along the Riverside Promenade for spectacular views of the Oriental Pearl Tower. After a traditional Dim Sum lunch, discover the classical beauty of Yuyuan Garden and browse for souvenirs along the historic Shanghai Old Street and bustling Nanjing Road. Conclude with a sunset walk along The Bund, admiring the spectacular colonial architecture. Evening option: World-renowned ERA Acrobatic Show.

Day 3: Ancient Water Town to River Adventure

Transport: Flight to Yichang | Cruise: Victoria Cruise ★★★★★

Morning visit to Zhujiajiao Water Town, exploring ancient canals and stone bridges via traditional boat. Savor waterside lunch before flying to Yichang. Evening embarkation on your luxury Victoria Cruise, settling into your cabin as you prepare for four nights of Yangtze exploration.

Day 4: Engineering Marvels & River Life

Experiences: Tai Chi practice, Three Gorges Dam, Captain's Welcome Reception

Begin with morning Tai Chi on deck as the river awakens. Optional morning excursion to Tribe of The Three Gorges. Afternoon visit to the monumental Three Gorges Dam, the world's largest hydroelectric project. Evening features the Captain's Welcome Reception followed by buffet dinner and cultural performance.

Day 5: Spectacular Gorges & Tributary Exploration

Natural Wonders: Wu Gorge, Goddess Stream, Qutang Gorge

Morning sailing through the mystical Wu Gorge with its twelve dramatic peaks. Shore excursion to either Goddess Stream or Shennong Stream, navigating stunning tributaries by traditional sampan. Afternoon passage through the shortest but most dramatic Qutang Gorge, with optional White Emperor City visit. Evening cabaret entertainment after dinner.

Day 6: Ancient Architecture & Ghost City Legends

Cultural Sites: Shibaozhai, Optional Fengdu Ghost City

Morning shore excursion to Shibaozhai, marveling at the 12-story wooden pagoda built against a riverside cliff. Afternoon optional visit to Fengdu Ghost City, exploring China's fascinating underworld mythology. Final evening onboard includes farewell dinner and settling accounts.

Day 7: Chongqing to Xi'an - Enter the Ancient Capital

Transport: High-speed train | Accommodation: Grand Noble Hotel Xi'an ★★★★

Disembark in Chongqing and transfer to high-speed train station for comfortable journey to Xi'an. Afternoon arrival and hotel check-in. Evening free to explore the vibrant Muslim Quarter and its famous night market, sampling local street food delicacies.

Day 8: Xi'an's Archaeological Wonders

Historical Sites: Terracotta Warriors, Ancient City Wall, Muslim Quarter

Full day exploring Xi'an's treasures. Morning visit to the breathtaking Terracotta Warriors, discovering the life-sized army guarding China's first emperor. After local specialty lunch, walk or bike along the magnificent Ming Dynasty City Wall. Late afternoon exploration of the Muslim Quarter's exotic markets and historic Great Mosque. Evening option: Tang Dynasty Dinner Show.

Day 9: Journey to the Imperial Capital

Transport: High-speed train to Beijing | Experience: Hutong Rickshaw Tour

Morning high-speed train journey to Beijing through changing landscapes. Afternoon arrival and immediate immersion into traditional Beijing life with a rickshaw tour through ancient Hutongs, visiting local families and experiencing authentic courtyard architecture.

Day 10: Forbidden City & Temple of Heaven

Imperial Sites: Tiananmen Square, Forbidden City, Jingshan Park, Temple of Heaven

Full day exploring Beijing's imperial heart. Morning at Tiananmen Square followed by comprehensive Forbidden City exploration, discovering the palace of 24 emperors. Hike Jingshan Park for panoramic city views. After lunch, visit the magnificent Temple of Heaven where emperors prayed for good harvests. Conclude with shopping at Panjiayuan Antique Market. Evening Peking Duck dinner recommendation.

Day 11: Great Wall & Olympic Legacy

Iconic Experiences: Mutianyu Great Wall, Olympic Park

Morning excursion to Mutianyu Great Wall, less crowded and beautifully restored. Optional cable car ascent for spectacular views and photography opportunities. After local lunch, return to city for exterior visits to Olympic Park's Bird Nest Stadium and Water Cube, marveling at modern architectural achievements. Evening options include Houhai lake bars or traditional foot massage.

Day 12: Departure with Lasting Memories

Leisurely morning for last-minute souvenir shopping or independent exploration. Transfer to Beijing Capital International Airport for your homeward flight, concluding an unforgettable journey through China's greatest treasures.