Classic China 12-day tour: old meets new

Beijing

Day 1: Arrival day in Beijing

Welcome to Beijing, the time-honored capital of China, filled with rich history and cultural heritage.

Once you land, your local guide will meet you at the airport, share their knowledge about Beijing during the transfer and escort you to the hotel.

Once you've settled in, the rest of the day is yours at leisure.

Beijing

Day 2: Explore customs and culture in Beijing

AFter breakfast tis morning, take a walk through Tiananmen Square, passing landmarks like Tiananmen Tower and the Monument to the People's Heroes. Next, explore the Forbidden City. Venture off the beaten track and uncover a different side to this six-century-old legendary palace complex.

At noon, savour a classic Beijing dish: Peking Roast Duck. The freshly cooked duck is a feast for the senses with its vibrant colour, fragrant aroma and flavourful taste.

Conclude the day at the Summer Palace. Within its confines, enjoy the charm of traditional Chinese architecture and gardening art,  with winding creeks, pavilions, and corridors. The Seventeen-Arch Bridge joins the lake, trees and shrubs beautifully into one wonderful landscape. 

Afterwards, return to your hotel to rewind or explore Beijing some more at your leisure. 

Beijing - Gubei Water Town

Day 3: Spectacular Great Wall by day and night

After breakfast, your day begins with adventure at the Mutianyu Great Wall. With a convenient round-trip cable car ride, ascend and descend the mountainside effortlessly, providing ample time and energy to explore this fully restored section filled with numerous watchtowers.

After lunch, you'll proceed to the Gubei Water Town and check into your hotel for the evening. As dusk falls, take the cable car up to the Simatai Great Wall, one of the few preserved sections retaining the original character of this ancient wonder. Bathed in a sea of yellow lights, the Simatai Wall is transformed into a golden dragon.

Beijing - Xian

Day 4: Glorious technicolour of the Tang dynasty

We head back to Beijing tis morning, to the Temple of Heaven to watch the elders practicing tai chi and experience the charm of traditional Chinese culture. Afterwards, take a rickshaw through the alleys and be transported back to the ancient life of the capital.

In the afternoon, it's time to take a train to Xi’an. Once you've checked into your hotel, the rest of the day in Xi'an is free to explore at your own pace. Perhaps head over to Datang Never Night City and experience the splendor of the Tang Dynasty. The grand palace complex, illuminated at night and complemented by a musical fountain show, recreates the glory of Xi'an's golden age.

Xian

Day 5: Visit the iconic Terracotta Warriors

After breakfast this morning, you'll visit what is without doubt one of the unmissable sights of China. The Terracotta Warriors are truly phenomenal to behold. Each terracotta figure has a strikingly animated facial expression and distinctive features, demonstrating the unparalleled craftsmanship of the Qin artisans. Standing before the thousands of terracotta soldiers, marvel at the mastery of the sculptors and the formidable strength of the Qin Dynasty's army, captured by this grand artistic endeavour.

Once you've absorbed the sight and enjoyed lunch, head off to a local craftsman's cave dwelling and learn how to make a mini terracotta warrior yourself. Conclude the day with a visit to the Xi'an Muslim Quarter. Stroll along the street, taste delicious snacks and get a glimpse into the daily life of local people.

Xian - Chongqing - Yangtze River

Day 6: Shaanxi Museum and Yangtse River cruise

Today’s trip begins with the Shaanxi History Museum. Its rich collections offer you a glimpse into the long and splendid history of Shaanxi. Take time to appreciate exquisite and unparalleled bronzeware and uncover the legends behind the artefacts.

After lunch, take the high-speed train to Chongqing, arriving ready to embark on your Yangtze River cruise. As you sail from Chongqing's neon-lit pier, take in the skyline's glow while enjoying dinner.

Yangtze River

Day 7: Atmospheric Fengdu ghost city

After breakfast onboard, join a group visit to Fengdu ghost city: this large complex of shrines, temples and monasteries features depictions of the afterlife and the Chinese belief in hell. Visitors can explore the eerie atmosphere of the ghostly structures, including the infamous 'Ghost Torturing Pass', and learn about the ancient mythology and customs associated with death and the afterlife in Chinese culture.

Afterwards, return to the water and take the opportunity to unwind in peaceful surroundings, relaxing over dinner as the ship cruises past the magnificent mountains that overlook the river.

Yangtze River

Day 8: Unspoilt beauty of the gorges

This morning, the ship will navigate through Qutang Gorge and Wu Gorge, two of the spectacular three ravines. Have your camera to hand for some truly incredible photo opportunities.

After lunch, this afternoon's excursion to Shennong Stream will not only provide stunning views of the unspoiled natural beauty of the Yangtze but also the chance to learn of a touching story that has been handed down over thousands of years.

In the evening, you'll have more opportunity to unwind over dinner as you sail. 

Yangtze River - Yichang - Shanghai

Day 9: Three Gorges Dam and on to Shanghai

After breakfast, your three-day cruise will end with a land tour to the Three Gorges Dam. Afterwards, check out and disembark the ship, then transfer to the airport for the flight to Shanghai.

On arrival, your guide will meet you and take you to the hotel. Once you've checked in, the rest of the day is yours to spend as you please.

Shanghai

Day 10: Fusion of past and present

Your Shanghai adventure kicks off at this morning at Yu Garden. Meander through the greenery, soaking in charming traditional buildings, winding paths and pavilions that capture the essence of a Jiangnan garden. Next, a modern visual feast awaits you. Standing in the Shanghai World Financial Center observatory, get a 360-degree bird's eye view of Shanghai. Skyscrapers line both sides of the Huangpu River, dazzling and splendid.

Visit the Bund, where a large number of classical revival buildings with different styles are preserved and Eastern and Western cultures converge, to form a sharp contrast. Strolling along the Bund, you can feel the history and future of Shanghai at once.

End the day by stepping back in time to the bustling market scene of Shanghai Old Street, reminiscent of a hundred years ago, sampling delicious traditional snacks as you stroll. 

Shanghai - Zhujiajiao Water Town

Day 11: Intriguing Marriage Market and magical water town

Today, after breakfast, your itinerary begins with a visit to the Shanghai Marriage Market. Here, you'll see hundreds of Chinese parents gather together, holding detailed information about their adult children, looking to find suitable marriage partners for them.

After lunch, drive out to Zhujiajiao Water Town by private vehicle. Stroll along the stone bridges and brick-paved streets, and appreciate the well-preserved historic buildings. Or you could hop on a boat and cruise along the winding river, seeing the ancient town from the water and enjoying the relaxing vibe. The scenic rivers, historic streets, and traditional architecture together make this a peaceful escape from the bustle of Shanghai.

Later, transfer back to your hotel in Shanghai where you can relax or find somewhere for a final dinner in this buzzing city.

Shanghai

Day 12: Departure from Shanghai

It's time to say goodbye to Shanghai today. Enjoy some free time after breakfast, before the transfer to the airport ready for your homeward flight.