China Encounters

China

Encounter all of the magnificent sights that make China a truly spectacular destination. Journey from the iconic Wall and enigmatic Warriors to the more off-the-beaten-track mountain vistas of Yunnan province on this epic cross-country adventure.

Overview

Encounter all of the magnificent sights that make China a truly spectacular destination. Journey from the iconic Wall and enigmatic Warriors to the more off-the-beaten-track mountain vistas of Yunnan province on this epic cross-country adventure.

Prices 23 days from £3,890pp

DAYS 1-2 FLY TO BEIJING

Fly overnight to Beijing, China's historical capital. Depending on your time of arrival, the rest of the day is yours to start soaking up the local culture.

DAY 3 IMPERIAL BEIJING

This morning, head to Beijing's symbolic heart, Tiananmen Square and stroll into the sprawling magnificence of the Forbidden City where you will find a complex full of imperial riches. Later, soak up the harmonious ambience of the Temple of Heaven, an orderly oasis in a bustling urban landscape. Here, mingle with the locals and watch or participate as they practise Tai Chi, dance or play cards. This evening, sit down to a traditional dinner of Peking duck and enjoy an acrobatics show.

DAY 4 SUMMER PALACE

In the morning, enjoy the idyllic gardens of the Summer Palace before visiting the Jade Factory, then travel to Chengde by road.

DAY 5: EXPLORE CHENGDE

The summer retreat of Manchu emperors, Chengde is home to a wealth of imperial architecture. Visit the magnificent Mountain Resort and sacred temples, including Puning and Putuo.

DAY 6 THE GREAT WALL

Make the return journey back to Beijing. This morning is dedicated to China's most iconic sight - the Jinshanling section of the Great Wall. Taking a walk on this incredible structure is the best way to appreciate both the sheer magnificence of the wall itself and the dramatic scenery that surrounds it.

DAY 7 BULLET TRAIN TO XIAN

Take the bullet train to Xian. Tonight, feast on traditional Shui Jiao dumplings followed by a performance of Tang Dynasty dancing.

DAY 8 TERRACOTTA WARRIORS

Spend the morning viewing the enigmatic ranks of life-sized warriors and horses. Also with the Xian Art Ceramics and Lacquer Workshop to see where the warriors are intricately recreated. Later this afternoon, take a stroll on the beautifully preserved 14th Century city walls that enclose Xian's old town. Explore the narrow and winding streets of the atmospheric Muslim Quarter, which are lined with Islamic food stalls.

DAY 9 BULLET TRAIN TO WUHAN

Take the bullet train to Wuhan and transfer to Yichang to board your Yangtze River Cruise vessel, home for the next four nights.

DAYS 10-12 YANGTZE RIVER CRUISE

A man-made marvel, the Three Gorges Dam showcases this massive feat of engineering. But as you cruise upstream nature takes over, revealing some of the world's most dramatic scenery including the Three Gorges themselves. Over the next three days, prepare for one breathtaking panorama after another. Take a side trip to the attractive Goddess or Shennong stream and enjoy shore excursions to Jade Emperor Scenic Area or Shibaozhai.

DAY 13 ANCIENT CIQIKOU

Disembark in Chongqing and explore old Ciqikou, whose narrow streets are perfect for a stroll to admire the traditional architecture. Continue by road to Chengdu, capital of Sichuan Province.

DAY 14 GIANT PANDAS

Visit Chengdu's famous Panda Conservation Centre to see and learn about China's celebrated bears up close in surroundings that mirror their natural habitat. Stroll through the bustling People's Park to Matchmaker's Corner, where parents search for worthy suitors for their children.

DAY 15 FLY TO TIBETAN ZHONGDIAN

This afternoon, stroll through traditional Jinli Street, Nanjiao Park and visit Wenshu Temple, the best-preserved Buddhist temple in Chengdu. Take an evening flight to the monastery town of Zhongdian, also known as Shangri-La.

DAY 16 SONGZANLIN MONASTERY

Spend the morning exploring the spectacular Songzanlin Monastery. Afterwards, make your way to a rural Tibetan-style village where you will learn about the villagers' way of life and taste home-cooked dishes. End the day with a tour of the old town and Dafo Temple.

DAY 17 TIGER LEAPING GORGE

Journey to the 3,000-metre-deep Tiger Leaping Gorge. With its backdrop of snowcapped mountains, it is one of China’s most extraordinary sights. The whole area is spectacular – prepare for breathtaking views. Travel to Lijiang and discover the old quarter; the quintessential Chinese 'old town' and wander the jumble of cobbled streets, traditional wooden buildings and rustic stone bridges.

DAY 18 JADE DRAGON SNOW MOUNTAIN

A magnificent mountain, the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain comprises several peaks, the tallest of which soars 5,500 metres. Taking a cable car, explore one of the stunning high meadows and enjoy the amazing vistas. Visit Baisha Old Town to view the fascinating frescoes painted during the early Ming Dynasty and take a tour of the Embroidery School.

DAY 19: BLACK DRAGON POOL

This morning, visit Black Dragon Pool Park where there are wonderful views of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain. Later, travel to Dali and explore the lively Foreigners' Street.

DAYS 20-21 ENCHANTING DALI

The area surrounding Dali is extremely scenic. Explore the village of Xizhou to browse its local market. See the Yan family home and watch a tie-dying demonstration. Wander through Dali's Ancient Quarter and relax with a cruise on Erhai Lake. The next day, visit the Three Pagodas and travel by road to Kunming. This evening, dine on the local dish, Across the Bridge Noodles.

DAY 22 STONE FOREST

Explore the magnificent formations of the picturesque Stone Forest, where towering limestone pillars stand treelike in a fascinating illusion of woodland, before taking your seats to see the impressive 'Dynamic Yunnan' show.

DAY 23 FLY KUNMING TO UK

Fly to the UK, arriving home the same or following day.


From £3,890 per person

Please contact us for alternative dates, durations and departure airports. Prices shown are for guidance only and are subject to availability.

Call our specialists on 01202 544876

Price Includes*

  • International flights and current taxes
  • 3* plus - 4* accommodation
  • Visa fees for UK passport holders
  • Domestic transportation
  • All meals
  • Maximum group size 28 passengers
  • Touring with guides and entrance fees

Speak to a specialist

Let our Reservations Specialists tailor-make the perfect getaway.

Call 01202 544876

Opening Hours
Mon - Thur: 9am - 5:30pm
Fri: 9am - 5pm

Getting there

Arrival Airport

Beijing Capital International Airport

Flight times

London to Beijing 10 hours

Time difference

GMT +7

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