• Welcome to Shanghai, the first stop on your China tour! Upon your flight landing, our local guide and driver will meet you outside the baggage claim area. You'll then enjoy a private transfer, approximately an hour's drive, to your hotel in the downtown area. The rest of the day is at your own leisure to start exploring the city.
• As one of the world's most developed metropolises, Shanghai is a microcosm of what China aims to be in the future. The city's charm lies not only in its rapid development over the past 50 years but also in its architectural heritage from the past 200 years, which contrasts beautifully with its modern skyline. This unique blend of history and modernity makes Shanghai an extraordinary city to explore.
• In the coming days, we will be discovering Shanghai's attractions and enjoying its local cuisine. Whether it's strolling along the Bund, visiting the Yu Garden, or experiencing the vibrant street life, Shanghai offers a myriad of options to start your adventure. in China.

• Stay in Shanghai

• Begin our day after breakfast with a visit to Yu Garden, a stunning example of Ming Dynasty architecture nestled in Shanghai's historic old quarter. Adjacent to Yu Garden is Yuyuan Market, a vibrant hub where you can immerse yourself in shopping, dining, and cultural exploration. For a breathtaking view of the city, head to the Shanghai World Financial Center. Standing tall at 492 meters (1,614 feet), this modern landmark offers an unparalleled bird's-eye perspective of prosperous Shanghai.
• The Bund's history dates back to the mid-19th century when Shanghai was opened as a treaty port following the First Opium War. During this period, the Bund developed into a major financial hub, with banks, trading houses, and consulates establishing their headquarters in grand, European-style buildings along the waterfront. The architectural styles range from Gothic and Baroque to Neo-Classical and Renaissance, reflecting the diverse influences of the colonial powers that operated in Shanghai.
• Walking along the Bund's waterfront promenade is a quintessential Shanghai experience. The wide walkway offers scenic views, public art installations, and a lively atmosphere.
• Shanghai Museum is a treasure trove of Chinese art and history, offering visitors an unparalleled opportunity to explore the rich cultural heritage of China. Its extensive collections, stunning architecture, and engaging exhibitions make it a must-visit destination for art enthusiasts, historians, and anyone interested in Chinese culture. Collections in Shanghai Museum covers a wide range of ancient Chinese Bronzes, Ceramics, Paintings, and Calligraphy.
• In particular, the Gallery of Minority Nationalities highlights the diverse cultures of China's ethnic minorities. The exhibits include clothing, textiles, masks, and other artifacts, offering insights into the traditions and lifestyles of these communities.
• Night Activity: In the evening, embark on a scenic cruise along the Huangpu River, offering stunning views of Shanghai's illuminated skyline. Marvel at the iconic landmarks such as the Oriental Pearl Tower, Shanghai Tower, and the historic buildings along the Bund, all beautifully lit up against the night sky. Relax on the deck of the boat and capture unforgettable photos of the city's glittering panorama.

• Explore Yu Garden
• Ascend Shanghai World Financial Center
• Stroll along the Bund
• Visit Shanghai Museum
• Cruise Huangpu River
• Stay in Shanghai, B, L

• Morning visit to The Shanghai World Financial Center (SWFC). As one of the tallest skyscrapers in the world, standing at a height of 492 meters (1,614 feet). It has 101 floors above ground and is a prominent feature of the city's skyline.
• The elevators in the SWFC are among the fastest in the world, we will be traveling at speeds of up to 10 meters per second (approximately 36 kilometers or 22 miles per hour). This allows us to reach the observation decks quickly and smoothly to the view deck provides an excellent opportunity to experience Shanghai from great heights, offering panoramic views of the bustling metropolis and its surrounding areas.
• Private transfer then to the airport flying to YiChang in HuBei Province ( Flight takes about 2.5 hours).
• Upon arrival at Yichang Sanxia Airport, you will be met at the arrival hall by our local service team and then transfer to the Yichang Three Gorges Center Cruise Terminal. From there, you will take a chartered tourist shuttle bus line arranged by the cruise company to Maoping Port at ZiGui for embarkation(about one hour bus ride).

  Tips for Yangzte Cruise Boarding:

• All cruise companies provide free transfer services at Yichang Three Gorges Center Cruise Terminal or Yichang East Railway Station between 16:00 and 21:00. You can choose either location to take the tourist bus to Maoping Port.
• Please call the ship one day in advance, or at least on the morning of your boarding day, to confirm which pier you will be using.
• Boarding times and departure piers may change based on the ship's route, water levels, season, weather, and other factors. Be sure to pay attention to the important information your travel consultant sends you before boarding.

• Ascend Shanghai World Financial Center
• Explore observation decks
• Stay onboard Yangtze River Cruise, B, L

• Wake up leisurely and enjoy the gentle sunshine over the tranquil Yangtze River. Start your beautiful day either by following a Tai Chi master on the sundeck or enjoying a cup of coffee. Whether you stay onboard or go on shore excursions, your day will be colorful and interesting. Shore Excursion to Three Gorges Dam.
• Accompanied by our English-speaking tour guide, you will visit the world-famous Three Gorges Dam, the largest hydropower station in the world with an annual energy output of 84.7 billion kilowatt-hours. The Three Gorges Dam includes three areas: the dam itself, a hydroelectric station, and a system of locks. The dam stands 185 meters (607 ft) above sea level, stretches about 2,300 meters (7,546 ft) in length, and is approximately 115 meters (377 ft) wide. With a water capacity of 39.3 billion cubic meters, the dam holds a huge reservoir that efficiently prevents flooding in the middle and lower portions of the Yangtze River.
• Your cruise ship will set sail upstream through the western section of Xiling Gorge. This marks the beginning of your journey through the dramatic gorges that slice through the surrounding mountains. The new reservoir has significantly altered the landscape, transforming it into a wild countryside reminiscent of the beautiful scenes depicted in traditional Chinese landscape paintings.
• As you navigate through Xiling Gorge, watch as the fog rolls in, turning the mountains into ethereal, ghostly sculptures. This breathtaking scenery provides a serene backdrop as you enjoy the sumptuous Captain's Dinner for your evening meal.

• Practice Tai Chi
• Visit Three Gorges Dam
• Sail through Xiling Gorge
• Stay onboard Yangtze River Cruise, B, L, D

• Start your day after breakfast with a side excursion into the Lesser Three Gorges, Shennong Stream, or Goddess Stream aboard smaller sightseeing boats. Here, the Yangtze River narrows and flows more swiftly, carving dramatic, towering stone cliffs. You'll spot the ancient hanging coffins of the Ba people suspended along an ancient plank road that clings to the cliff face.
• In the afternoon, your cruise ship will sail through Wu Gorge, a 45-kilometer stretch noted for its deep, serene scenes, zigzags, and weird peaks. The rising mists and beautiful sights create an otherworldly atmosphere. Continue your journey through Qutang Gorge, known for its sheer magnificence despite being only 8 kilometers long. The steep, towering cliffs provide a breathtaking and dramatic landscape.
• Dinner and Entertainment: Enjoy a dinner featuring local cuisine and entertainment while you feast, providing a taste of the region’s culinary delights and cultural heritage.
• Optional Excursion in Late Afternoon Today White Emperor City and "Return to the Three Gorges" Live Show: An additional optional shore excursion might be available in the late afternoon to visit White Emperor City. In the evening, experience the "Return to the Three Gorges" live show, an engaging cultural performance (subject to river conditions).

• Explore Lesser Three Gorges
• Visit Shennong Stream
• Cruise Goddess Stream
• Sail through Wu Gorge
• Tour White Emperor City
• Stay onboard Yangtze River Cruise, B, L, D

• Today's adventure includes a shore excursion to either the Shibaozhai Pagoda or Fengdu, depending on your cruise line's arrangements. Only one of these excursions is included, but you have the option to visit the other one at an additional cost.
• Shibaozhai Pagoda: This 400-year-old temple was preserved from the rising waters and is now an island, whereas it was once atop a hill. Architectural Marvel: The temple is uniquely built partway into the cliff without the use of nails or bolts, showcasing traditional Chinese architectural ingenuity.
• Fengdu Ghost City: An ancient village of temples, is renowned for its numerous shrines dedicated to the gods of the underworld. It offers a fascinating glimpse into local spiritual beliefs.
• Mystical Atmosphere: Surrounded by misty mountains, Fengdu is revered as a crossing-over point between the material and spiritual worlds. Visitors are said to be purified after they “survive” the village’s spooky experiences.
• Conclude the day with the Captain's Farewell Banquet, a festive evening filled with delicious food and entertainment as you celebrate the end of your journey on the Yangtze River. We ask you to please prepare for your final day as the cruise finishes up in Chongqing tomorrow. Enjoy your evening on board, reflecting on the cultural and natural wonders you've experienced along the Yangtze River.

• Explore Shibaozhai Pagoda
• Admire architectural
• Visit Fengdu Ghost City
• Stay onboard Yangtze River Cruise, B, L, D

• After breakfast, we will check out from the cruise ship in Chongqing around 9:00 am. Our guide will meet you at the cruise lobby. Transfer directly to Chongqing Zoo, where you can see the Giant Pandas along with other rare animals. The zoo offers a wonderful opportunity to observe these beloved creatures in a setting designed to mimic their natural habitat.
• Visit the museum dedicated to the famous Flying Tigers, the American Air Force unit that fought alongside China during World War II. This museum offers fascinating insights into this significant chapter of history and the bravery of the pilots.
• After lunch, we will drive to the airport for your onward journey to Xi'an. our guide and driver will meet you at Xi'an airport, and transfer you to your hotel.

• Visit Chongqing Zoo
• Explore Flying Tigers Museum
• Stay in Xian, B, L

• Start your day early in Xi'an with a visit to the Terracotta Army. Departing from your hotel after breakfast, it takes about 1 hour drive on the way and our guide will share with you all the facts about Terracotta Army. This archaeological marvel, discovered in 1974, showcases over 8,000 life-sized warriors, each with unique facial features and expressions.
• Spend the next three hours exploring the site. Begin with Pit 1, the largest and most impressive, housing the main army of soldiers, horses, and chariots. Spend ample time here, marveling at the meticulous details and the sheer scale of this ancient military formation. Then move on to Pit 2, which features a fascinating array of cavalry, infantry, and archers, and Pit 3, believed to be the command center.
• Lunch will be served in local Chinese restaurant after the visit, we will then drive back to downtown Xi'an. continue our visit to the Ming Dynasty City Wall, rent a bike and embark on a leisurely ride along this ancient fortification. The entire circuit, approximately 14 kilometers long, offers a unique perspective of Xi'an, blending historical and modern views. The ride typically takes about 1.5 to 2 hours, providing plenty of opportunities to enjoy the scenery and take photos.
• Take a short walk to the nearby Muslim Quarter to experience the vibrant atmosphere of Muslim Street. This bustling area is famous for its delicious street food and lively market stalls. Sample local snacks like kebabs, fried bread, and sweet treats. Don't miss the Yangrou Paomo, a traditional dish of crumbled flatbread soaked in lamb soup. As you wander through the market, explore the various stalls selling souvenirs, handicrafts, and traditional items, offering a perfect way to experience the local culture.
• Optional evening activity: Xian is famous for its dumplings, we expect to be served a variety of stuffed dumplings, each with different fillings and shapes, often presented in a creative and artistic manner. Dinner typically starts around 6:00 PM, giving you ample time to enjoy this delicious meal at a leisurely pace.
• Following your sumptuous dinner, you'll head to one of Xi'an's famous venues for the Tang Dynasty Music and Dance Show. The show usually starts around 7:30 PM. This performance is a vivid portrayal of the grandeur and cultural richness of the Tang Dynasty, featuring traditional music, elegant dance, and intricate costumes. The show lasts for about 1-2 hours, leaving you captivated by the beauty and artistry of ancient China.

• Explore Terracotta Army
• Cycle Ming Dynasty City Wall
• Wander Muslim Quarter
• Watch Tang Dynasty Show
• Stay in Xian, B, L, D

• Spend our morning in Xian to visit the Small Wild Goose Pagoda and the Xian Museum.
• The Small Wild Goose Pagoda, dating back to the Tang Dynasty, is an exquisite example of ancient Chinese architecture. Situated in a serene park, the pagoda stands as a testament to Xian's rich history. Strolling through the park, you can explore the Xian Museum, which houses a vast collection of artifacts, including pottery, statues, and ancient texts. The tranquility of the park, combined with the historical significance of the pagoda, provides a peaceful yet enriching experience. Spending a few hours here allows you to soak in the cultural heritage and the natural beauty of the area.
• After lunch, we leave Xian for Beijing today by a 4.5-hour bullet train journey. Upon arrival, our guide and driver in Beijing will meet you and take a private transfer to the hotel for a rest.

• Visit Small Wild Goose Pagoda
• Explore Xi'an Museum
• Stay in Beijing, B, L

• Our guide and driver will meet you at the hotel after breakfast, begin the journey today to Tiananmen Square first, this is the largest city square in the world and you will meander through the complex and see many iconic sites, including the marble Monument to the People's Heroes, the Great Hall of the People, and the Mausoleum of Chairman Mao. From the square, we'll move on by the Tian'anmen Rostrum to the entrance of the Forbidden City.
• The Forbidden City served as the imperial palace for 24 emperors during the Ming and Qing dynasties, spanning nearly 500 years from 1420 to 1912. It is a central part of Chinese history and culture, and visiting it provides a deep insight into China's imperial past. As one of the most well-preserved examples of traditional Chinese palatial architecture, the Forbidden City is a masterpiece of design and craftsmanship. Its layout, grand halls, intricate carvings, and expansive courtyards showcase the pinnacle of Chinese architectural achievement. Walking through the vast courtyards, majestic halls, and serene gardens of the Forbidden City provides an immersive experience that transports us back in time. It allows for a firsthand appreciation of the scale and grandeur of the imperial era.
• After lunch served in local Chinese restaurant, we will continue our visit to the Temple of Heaven. as one of the UNESCO heritage site, it was built in 1420s during the Ming Dynasty and was used by emperors of both the Ming and Qing dynasties to conduct annual ceremonies to pray for a good harvest and to offer sacrifices to Heaven, which was considered the highest deity in ancient Chinese culture.
• the Temple of Heaven is one of the must-visit sites in Beijing for its historical depth, architectural grandeur, and cultural richness. It offers a unique glimpse into the spiritual life of ancient China and the sophisticated craftsmanship of the Ming Dynasty.
• Dinner in the evening will be the famous Peking Roasted Duck.

• Explore Tiananmen Square
• Enter Forbidden City
• Explore Temple of Heaven
• Savor Peking Roasted Duck
• Stay in Beijing, B, L, D

• We will drive for about two hours in the morning to the Mutianyu section of the Great Wall, one of the best-preserved parts of this iconic structure. Built along mountain ridges, the Great Wall at Mutianyu winds like a dragon through the stunning mountainous landscape. For your convenience, we will arrange round-trip cable car rides for your visit. Spend more than two hours exploring the top of the wall, its watchtowers, battlements, and Ming Dynasty bricks that have witnessed centuries of history and change.
• In the afternoon, we will return to Beijing and visit the Summer Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage site originally built during the Ming Dynasty. The Summer Palace features the tranquil Kunming Lake, the beautifully painted Long Corridor, and the impressive Marble Boat. This serene imperial garden offers a fantastic glimpse into China's royal past.

• Explore Mutianyu Great Wall
• Visit Summer Palace
• Cruise Kunming Lake
• Stay in Beijing, B, L

As our memorable China tour ends, take a private transfer to the airport for your international flight home.

• Departure, B