Fly overnight to Beijing (PEK).

Upon arrival in Beijing (PEK), you will be warmly greeted at the airport by the tour guide and transferred to your hotel. 

Today, visit Tiananmen Square, the second largest public square in the world, and the Forbidden City, it is a historic and magnificent imperial palace complex and was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987. It is located at the heart of Beijing and covers an area of about 180 acres. It is enclosed by a massive defensive wall and a deep moat, making it one of the largest and best-preserved ancient palace complexes in the world. Then indulge in a delicious lunch to savor the flavors of both tradition and innovation - Peking Roast Duck. 
This afternoon, you may join the optional Temple of Heaven & Hutong Life tour(US$89/person). This tour offers an authentic experience, explore the UNESCO-listed Temple of Heaven before navigate Beijing's historic alleyways on a rickshaw for a glimpse into the past.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Today’s highlight is an excursion to the majestic Great Wall, the most famous image of China, and you can get a chance to climb a portion of this 3,700-mile marvel. Visit one of the largest Jade Exhibitions in Asia en-route before the Great Wall. Then drive pass by modern exteriors of the Bird’s Nest and Water Cube that were built for the 2008 Beijing Summer Olympics. Both buildings have become symbols of modern China and are significant landmarks that showcase the country's architectural prowess. 

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Today continue to the legendary Summer Palace, the resort of the Empress Dowager. Enjoy a serene boat ride across the lake, soaking in the breathtaking views, then meander through the expansive palace grounds, capturing the essence of royal leisure.  After delving into the world of Chinese herbal medicine, you may immerse yourself in the thrilling world of the Beijing Acrobatic Show (US$60/person), an optional tour that offers a dazzling fusion of extraordinary agility and dramatic flair. Watch in awe as acrobats perform gravity-defying stunts and intricate maneuvers, set against a backdrop of vibrant costumes and pulsating music—a truly electrifying experience!

Note: For departures from November to March, the boat ride on the lake at the Summer Palace will not be available due to seasonal closure. A replacement dinner will be provided during this period.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Today, embark on the modern high-speed rail bound for Xi’an. Over a period for more than 2000 years, Xi’an was the capital of eleven dynasties. Upon arrival, transfer to hotel and enjoy the unique Shaanxi dinner  in local restaurant. Tonight, you may join the optional visit to the Grand Tang Everbright City (US$69/person). It is a 2,100-meter-long pedestrian mall in Xi'an. The design theme is inspired by Tang Dynasty, You may try on a Tang Dynasty costume, the traditional attire of the Chinese people to immerse yourself in the vibrant nightlife in the Tang Dynasty.

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Today you will visit the Terra Cotta Warriors and Horses Museum and see the attached life-sized defending army for the first emperor of China, Qin Shi Huang. This site is regarded as “the eighth wonder of the world” and is among the top archaeological excavations of the 20th century. Visit an Art Ceramics Factory before visiting Ancient City Wall. It is the most complete ancient military defense systems in the world. This evening, enjoy the “special local Imperial Dumpling Banquet Dinner and the traditional Tang Dynasty Singing and Dancing Show” (US$68/person).

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

This morning, take high-speed train (Bullet Train) to Luoyang Longmen Station. begin your exploration at the magnificent Longmen Grottoes, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its thousands of intricate Buddhist statues carved into limestone cliffs, showcasing the pinnacle of ancient Chinese artistry and devotion. Next, journey to the legendary Shaolin Temple, nestled in the scenic Songshan Mountains. Renowned as the cradle of Chinese Kung Fu and Zen Buddhism, the temple offers a fascinating glimpse into centuries-old martial arts culture. Continue your journey to Zhengzhou and overnight.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

This morning, take the Bullet Train to Yichang, the gateway to the majestic Yangtze River. Relax and enjoy the changing scenery as you journey into the heart of central China. Upon arrival in Yichang, transfer to the port for an evening of luxury cruising, where you can explore onboard events and activities.

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

After breakfast, visit the Three Gorges Dam at Sandouping, the world’s largest hydroelectric power station. Learn about its incredible scale and significance in flood control and energy production.

Later, cruise through the breathtaking Xiling Gorge, the longest and deepest of the Three Gorges, stretching over 41 miles. Admire the towering cliffs and dramatic scenery as you journey along this iconic stretch of the Yangtze River.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

After breakfast, enjoy scenic cruising through the majestic Qutang Gorge, renowned for its dramatic cliffs and breathtaking beauty. Later, explore the Lesser Three Gorges aboard smaller riverboats, with an optional extension to the Little Lesser Three Gorges for even closer encounters with striking rock formations and lush riverside scenery. 

Conclude your day with tranquil cruising through the serene and picturesque Wu Gorge, known for its mystical atmosphere and serene beauty.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Embark on a shore excursion to Fengdu Snow Jade Cave, famed for its stunning rock formations and crystal-clear beauty. Explore its cool passages to marvel at natural sculptures, illuminated to enhance their ethereal charm. Or, visit the Xiaoguanshan Ancient Folk Culture Park*, a well-known site for the relocation of architectural and cultural relics. (*Subject to cruise line arrangements)

Expert guides offer insights into its history and formation for an educational and awe-inspiring experience.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Today conclude your cruise journey in Chongqing. Then, travel to the Panda House to see the adorable giant pandas. Spend time observing these cuddly creatures as they munch on bamboo and play in their habitats. In the afternoon, transfer to the airport for your flight to Hangzhou. Upon arrival, transfer to hotel. This evening, you can attend the optional “Enduring Memories of Hangzhou” performance (US$90/person), a mesmerizing show that brings the legends of West Lake to life through music, lights, and water effects.

Meals: Breakfast

Hangzhou, described by Marco Polo as “the most beautiful and magnificent city in the world”. Today, visit the serene West Lake, the most renowned feature of Hangzhou, famous for its scenic beauty and rich historical sites. Afterward, indulge in an oriental tea-tasting experience at the Dragon Well Tea Plantation before transferring to Suzhou, where dubbed the "Venice of the East" due to its extensive waterways, ponds, and streams.You may take an optional cruise along the Grand Canal to view life along China’s golden waterway in its heyday (US$50/person).
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Today you will visit Lingering Garden, an UNESCO World Heritage site with four themed sections connected by covered walkways. At its center is a stunning garden surrounding a pond and a yellow stone granite grotto, crafted by renowned artist Zhou Binzhong. Then, explore the silk factory to discover the intricate process of silk production. Afterward, transfer to Shanghai, the rest of the day at leisure. Tonight you may join the optional “Huangpu River Night Cruise” and get a glimpse of the dazzling and charming night view of Shanghai (US$60/person).
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Shanghai is the vibrant and commercial Centre of China. This morning you will walk along the famous Bund, a mile-long stretch along the Huangpu River. Lined by the colonial architectures showing the Western influences of the old days. Then we will visit  the Shanghai History Museum, renowned for its impressive collection of ancient Chinese art, and the City God Temple area, surrounded by a network of local snack vendors, pearl shops and souvenir shops that make for a colorful walk. 

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Today transfer to the airport (PVG) for your return flight.

Meals: Breakfast