Captivating China

Prices 14 days from £3,590pp

DAYS 1-2: FLY TO BEIJING

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

DAY 3: FORBIDDEN CITY

Meet the group in the hotel lobby. We start in Beijing's symbolic heart, Tiananmen Square, before entering the sprawling magnificence of the Forbidden City to explore this complex full of imperial riches. We will then take a ride through a traditional hutong neighbourhood on rickshaws, popping in to visit a family at home for lunch and to learn about life living in the hutongs. This afternoon, soak up the harmonious ambience of the glorious Temple of Heaven, where we can mingle with the locals. Tonight, dine on local delicacy Peking Duck.

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 its sheer magnificence and dramatic scenery that surrounds it. This afternoon, stroll through the idyllic landscapes of the Summer Palace, discovering traditional Chinese gardens and see the exquisite architecture.

DAY 5: LITTLE WILD GOOSE PAGODA

Fly to the ancient city of Xian. We start at the lovely Little Wild Goose Pagoda, where the group will try 'Guohua', traditional Chinese painting with black ink, to decorate a fan. Next, we will stroll through the atmospheric Muslim Quarter, browsing the food stalls and learning about the significant importance of this city as the start of the Silk Road. This 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. We spend the morning admiring the enigmatic ranks of the life-size warriors and horses, before stopping by the workshop of the craftsmen who recreate Terracotta Warriors in the style of their ancient counterparts. Later, we will enjoy a stroll on the beautifully preserved 14th Century city walls that enclose Xian's old town.

DAY 7: BULLET TRAIN TO CHENGDU

As a group we will take the bullet train to the city of Chengdu, the capital of Sichuan province. On arrival, we will take a walk through People's Park and visit the fascinating Matchmaker's Corner where parents search for worthy suitors for their children. Enjoy a delicious Sichuanese meal for dinner with the option of a performance of Sichuan Opera, famous for its 'face-changing'.

DAY 8: PANDAS

A visit this morning to Chengdu's famous Panda Conservation Centre allows us to learn about China's famous bears and we also get a chance to see them up close as they munch through piles of bamboo and play. We then continue to Chongqing where we will board our Yangtze River Cruise vessel.

DAYS 9-10: YANGTZE RIVER CRUISE

Over the next three days as we cruise downstream, we will pass through some of China's most celebrated scenery - be prepared for one breathtaking panorama after another. Join side trips and shore excursions, ending with the Three Gorges Dam, a massive and impressive feat of engineering.

DAY 11: FLY TO SHANGHAI

Disembark the cruise vessel in Yichang and travel by coach to Wuhan; from here we fly to the exuberant and cosmopolitan city of Shanghai, also known as the 'Paris of the East'.

DAY 12: EXPLORE SHANGHAI

This morning, the group will visit the peaceful Yu Garden, old town, Silk Factory and stroll along the Bund. After lunch together, the afternoon is at your leisure. This evening, we will all head to see the spectacular ERA Show, a mesmerising display of martial arts and acrobatics.

DAY 13: HUANGPU RIVER CRUISE

Today is a free day to spend in Shanghai as you wish. Choose to further explore this city on your own or with your new-found friends or choose from optional tours including a ride on the super speedy Maglev train or ascend Jin Mao Tower. This evening the group will meet for a panoramic cruise on the Huangpu River before a final dinner together where we can reflect on the adventure we've shared.

DAY 14: FLY SHANGHAI TO UK

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

From £3,590 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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