China Explorer Tour

China

Pairing the classical sights with a Yangtze cruise, visits to the atmospheric ancient towns and a hike on the Great Wall as it weaves on undulating alien landscapes; this itinerary will bring you closer to the authentic charm of China.

Overview

Pairing the classical sights with a Yangtze cruise, visits to the atmospheric ancient towns and a hike on the Great Wall as it weaves on undulating alien landscapes; this itinerary will bring you closer to the authentic charm of China.

Prices 15 days from £3,390pp

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 FORBIDDEN CITY AND SUMMER PALACE WALK

Stroll across Tiananmen Square into the sprawling magnificence of the Forbidden City. Entering through the Gate of supreme Harmony, you will find a complex full of imperial treasures which offers an unsurpassed insight into China's colourful past. Spend the afternoon strolling through the idyllic landscapes of the Summer Palace and admire the Chinese architecture, followed by a walk up Longevity Hill to enjoy the panoramic views.

DAY 4 BEIJING'S HUTONGS

Arrive at the Temple of Heaven, an orderly oasis in a bustling urban landscape. Mingle with the locals and watch or participate as they start their day practising Tai Chi, dancing and playing cards. Next, visit Yandaixiejie, where you will have some free time to wander around the hutongs. These narrow alleys offer an authentic glimpse of the old Beijing. Enjoy lunch at the hutongs before driving to the Simatai section of the Great Wall, staying overnight in Gubei Watertown. Ride up to the apex of the Wall by cable car to see the sunset.

DAY 5 HIKE THE GREAT WALL

Travel to the Great Wall at Jinshanling, a section that is much less frequented by tourists than other parts. The stark yet magnificent surroundings allow you to put yourself in the shoes of those who walked this incredible structure hundreds of years ago. Your trek will last approximately four hours as the wall courses through dramatic landscapes and rugged terrain. Later, head back to Beijing and enjoy the evening at leisure.

DAY 6 EXPLORE XIAN

Fly to Xian, the former ancient capital and enjoy a walking tour of the narrow and winding streets of the Muslim Quarter. Sample the delicious, freshly cooked snacks and gain an insight into the city's fascinating culture and significance as the start of the Silk Road. Enjoy the evening at leisure or take an optional fountain and light show and be dazzled by the city at night.

DAY 7 TERRACOTTA WARRIORS

Housed in three immense hangars, the ranks of the Terracotta Army stand sentinel in their subterranean necropolis. Spend the morning gazing over the ranks of warriors and horses, whilst your guide introduces you to these life-like soldiers' fascinating story. Also visit the workshop of the craftsmen who recreate the Terracotta Warriors in the style of their ancient counterparts. Later, enjoy a gentle cycle ride on the beautifully preserved 14th century city walls that enclose Xian's old town.

DAY 8 PINGLE ANCIENT TOWN

Jump on the bullet train to Chengdu and drive to Pingle Ancient Town. Dating back to the Han Dynasty, Pingle was a stopping point on the Tea Horse Road. Take time to walk through its maze of teahouse lined streets before walking through Jinji's dense bamboo forest, then see the forest and gorge from above by crossing Jinji Suspended Rope Bridge.

DAY 9 DUJIANGYAN PANDA BASE

Return to Chengdu and visit one of the world's finest panda conservation centres. Here, the pandas are kept in conditions very close to their natural habitat. Later, ascend Mt Qingcheng, the most sacred Taoist mountain in China, by cable car. It is a truly beautiful area with numerous lush, green peaks and secluded temples. Take a stroll among the mystic scenery of Yuecheng Lake.

DAY 10 ANCIENT CIQIKOU

Drive to Chongqing and visit the charming old town of Ciqikou - there's time to wander the cobbled alleyways and learn about its colourful history. Later, board your Yangtze Cruise vessel.

DAYS 11-12 YANGTZE RIVER CRUISE

As you cruise downstream, nature takes over, revealing some of the world's most dramatic scenery including the Three Gorges themselves. Over the next two days, prepare for one breathtaking panorama after another. Enjoy shore excursions to the Jade Emperor Scenic Area or Shibaozhai and side trips to Goddess or Shennong Stream. This is a chance to get a glimpse of life on the river banks.

DAY 13 THREE GORGES DAM

Disembark your cruise vessel in Yichang and visit the Three Gorges Dam. Travel to Wuhan then fly the cosmopolitan city of Shanghai.

DAY 14 SHANGHAINESE SHANGHAI

Wake up to the buzz of Shanghai and take a breakfast walking tour through the city's most fascinating districts, marvelling at monuments and rickety buildings before enjoying breakfast as the locals do - sample pancakes, fried bread sticks and tofu. Visit the Yu Garden, the old town and the Silk Factory before taking an evening stroll along the Bund and enjoying a farewell dinner of authentic Shanghainese cuisine. In the evening, enjoy a cruise along the Huangpu River, serenaded by the neon lights of Pudong.

DAY 15 FLY SHANGHAI TO UK

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


From £3,390 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
  • Most meals
  • Maximum group size 18 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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Opening Hours

Mon-Thurs: 9am - 6pm
Fri: 9am - 5pm