Classic China

Prices 21 days from £3,990pp

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. Entering through the Gate of Supreme Harmony, 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. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Peking duck dinner followed by a Chinese acrobatic show.

DAY 4 THE GREAT WALL

This morning is dedicated to China's most iconic sight - the Great Wall. Taking a walk on this incredible structure is the best way to appreciate both the wall itself and the dramatic scenery that it crosses. Visit the Jade Factory then spend the afternoon in the idyllic gardens of the Summer Palace as you wander through traditional Chinese landscapes and see the exquisite architecture. This evening, there is an option to see some Kung Fu masters in action.

DAY 5 FLY TO XIAN

Fly to the ancient city of Xian and visit the Little Wild Goose Pagoda. In the evening, enjoy a delicious feast of traditional Shui Jiao dumplings followed by a performance of Tang Dynasty dancing.

DAY 6 TERRACOTTA WARRIORS

After their fortuitous discovery in the 1970s, the Terracotta Army of China's first Emperor, Qin Shi Huang, has intrigued visitors ever since. Spend the morning viewing the enigmatic ranks of life-sized warriors and horses. Also visit the workshop to see where the warriors are intricately recreated in style of their ancient counterparts. After lunch, stroll along the beautifully preserved 14th Century city walls that enclose Xian's old town.

DAY 7 FLY TO GUILIN

Fly to Guilin and visit the Reed Flute Cave to see the colourful stalagmites and stalactites.

DAY 8 LI RIVER CRUISE

Take a relaxed cruise along the Li River to charming Yangshuo. Around every river bend is a view to take your breath away as jagged karst peaks loom over rural scenes of lush greenery, grazing buffalo and local fishermen. This afternoon you can spend some time browsing Yangshuo's vibrant markets.

DAY 9 YANGSHUO

Begin with a relaxing and invigorating session of Tai Chi, taking a class with a master to learn this ancient martial art. Explore the countryside and stop on the banks of the Li River for a photo opportunity with a cormorant fisherman. Enjoy time at leisure or choose one of the many optional activities available including cycling or bamboo rafting.

DAY 10 TRAVEL TO KUNMING

Drive back to Guilin and visit the Pearl Factory before flying to Kunming, capital of Yunnan Province. This evening, dine on a local dish, Across the Bridge Noodles.

DAY 11 THE STONE FOREST

Meander through the formations of the UNESCO-listed Stone Forest, where towering limestone pillars stand treelike in a fascinating illusion of woodland.

DAY 12 EXPLORE LIJIANG

Fly to Lijiang, set in the foothills of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain. Discover the old quarter; the quintessential Chinese 'old town' and wander the jumble of cobbled streets, traditional wooden buildings and rustic stone bridges. Continue to the Black Dragon Pool Park, where there are wonderful views of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain.

DAY 13 TIGER LEAPING GORGE

Journey to the 3,000 metres deep Tiger Leaping Gorge. With its backdrop of snow-capped mountains, it is one of China's most extraordinary sights. Later, return to Lijiang.

DAY 14 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 gorgeous high meadows and enjoy the amazing vistas. On the way back to Lijiang, visit Baisha Old Town to view the fascinating frescoes painted during the early Ming Dynasty and also visit Baisha Village, a settlement of the Naxi minority people.

DAY 15 FLY TO CHENGDU

Fly to Chengdu, capital of Sichuan Province. Tonight, dine on some fantastic local cuisine followed by an option to watch a traditional Sichuan Opera performance.

DAY 16 PANDAS

A visit to Chengdu's famous Panda Conservation Centre allows you to see and learn about China's celebrated bears up close in surroundings that mirror their natural habitat. Take a stroll through People's Park to see Matchmaker's Corner, where parents search for suitable partners for their children. Later, transfer to Chongqing and board your Yangtze cruise vessel.

DAYS 17-19 YANGTZE RIVER CRUISE

As you cruise upstream, nature takes over, revealing some of the world's most dramatic scenery. Over the next three days prepare for one breathtaking panorama after another. Enjoy various side trips and shore excursions as well as the Three Gorges Dam which showcases a simply massive feat of engineering. Disembark and travel by coach to Wuhan for your flight to Shanghai.

DAY 20 EXPLORE SHANGHAI

Shanghai is China's great metropolis, where east and west collide on streets lined with futuristic skyscrapers and 10th Century temples. Visit the Yu Garden, old town, the Silk Factory and stroll along the Bund. Enjoy the afternoon at leisure or take an optional trip on the super-fast Maglev train or ascend Jin Mao Tower. This evening, view the city from the Huangpu River on a panoramic cruise and enjoy a delicious meal of traditional Shanghainese cuisine.

DAY 21 FLY SHANGHAI TO UK

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

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From £3,990 per person

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

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