From Empires to Majestic Rivers

Upon arrival at Beijing Capital Airport, your personal guide will greet you and escort you to your hotel in a comfortable, private vehicle. The drive takes about an hour, during which your guide will offer a fascinating introduction to Beijing, a city where ancient traditions meet modern energy. Once checked in, take some time to relax and recover from your journey—tomorrow, your adventure begins!

Start your journey at the iconic Tiananmen Square, a historic and political landmark at the heart of Beijing. Just beyond, step into the Forbidden City, a vast imperial palace that housed 24 emperors over 600 years. Explore its grand halls, intricate pavilions, and hidden courtyards while your guide brings the stories of emperors and concubines to life. In the afternoon, unwind at the Summer Palace, China’s largest and best-preserved imperial garden. Stroll through its tranquil pathways, admire the ornate Long Corridor, and if weather permits, enjoy a relaxing boat ride on Kunming Lake for a panoramic view of this stunning retreat.

No visit to China is complete without standing atop the Great Wall. This morning, drive two hours to the Mutianyu Great Wall, a scenic and less-crowded section. Take a cable car up and enjoy a few hours walking along the ancient ramparts, marveling at the ingenious stonework and breathtaking mountain views. In the afternoon, visit the Changling Tomb, the largest and best-preserved of the Thirteen Ming Tombs, where emperors of the Ming Dynasty were laid to rest. Stroll through its majestic halls and sacred pathways, uncovering the grandeur of China’s imperial past. Return to Beijing for a restful evening.

Start your day at the Temple of Heaven, where emperors once prayed for good harvests. Admire its sacred architecture and soak in the lively atmosphere of the surrounding park, where locals practice tai chi, calligraphy, and traditional Chinese music. Next, take a step back in time with a rickshaw ride through Beijing’s Hutongs, the city’s historic alleyways. Visit a traditional courtyard home and learn about the daily life of Beijing’s old neighborhoods. In the afternoon, fly two hours to Xi’an, China’s ancient capital and the starting point of the Silk Road. Upon arrival, your local guide will assist with your hotel check-in.

Today, uncover one of the greatest archaeological discoveries of all time—the Terracotta Army. Walk among thousands of life-sized soldiers, horses, and chariots, each uniquely detailed and built over 2,000 years ago to guard Emperor Qin Shi Huang in the afterlife. Back in Xi’an’s old town, explore the vibrant Muslim Quarter, where ancient Chinese and Islamic cultures intertwine. Sample authentic local dishes, such as hand-pulled noodles and lamb skewers, before visiting the serene Great Mosque, a fascinating blend of Chinese and Islamic architecture.

Fly two hours south to Guilin, a city famed for its otherworldly karst mountains and riverscapes. Upon arrival, visit the mesmerizing Reed Flute Cave, where stunning stalactites and stalagmites form natural sculptures, illuminated by colorful lights. Learn about the geological wonders that have been evolving for millions of years before heading to your hotel for the evening.

Embark on a once-in-a-lifetime Li River cruise, where towering karst peaks, misty valleys, and bamboo groves create a scene straight out of a traditional Chinese painting. Glide down the water for 3.5 to 4.5 hours, passing fisherman with cormorant birds, tranquil villages, and lush rice paddies. Arriving in Yangshuo, stroll along West Street, a lively area filled with charming cafés, local shops, and a blend of traditional and modern influences. Check into your hotel and enjoy the rest of the day at your own pace, whether you choose to relax or explore this enchanting countryside town.

After breakfast, your guide will escort you to the railway station for your high-speed train journey (5–6 hours) to Chongqing, a bustling city perched on the banks of the Yangtze River. Upon arrival, you'll be greeted and transferred to the dock, where you’ll settle into your cabin aboard your Yangtze River cruise ship. Take the evening to unwind and explore the ship’s amenities before setting sail at 9:00 PM, embarking on a scenic and relaxing cruise through China’s longest river.

Wake up to breathtaking views of the Yangtze River, as misty mountains and charming riverside villages slowly drift past your window. Spend a leisurely morning on board, enjoying the scenery and fresh river air. In the afternoon, join an included excursion to Shibaozhai, a striking red pavilion clinging to a solitary hill. Climb the 12-story wooden pagoda, an architectural marvel built without nails, and reach the hilltop for panoramic views of the river and countryside. Optional Experience: If you're intrigued by Chinese folklore, consider an optional morning tour to Fengdu Ghost City, a place rich in legends about the afterlife.

Enjoy another tranquil morning as the ship continues down the river, weaving through the dramatic landscapes of the Three Gorges region. In the afternoon, embark on a wooden flat-bottom boat for a journey into Shennv Stream (Goddess Stream), a secluded tributary surrounded by towering cliffs and lush greenery. As you drift deeper into the gorge, you’ll witness untouched natural beauty and glimpse the traditional way of life in this remote region. Optional Experience: History enthusiasts can opt for a visit to White Emperor City, a historic site overlooking the Qutang Gorge, famous for its ties to China's ancient poets and military strategists.

After breakfast, disembark for a guided visit to the Three Gorges Dam, one of the world’s largest engineering marvels. Walk along the observation deck for a stunning view of this colossal hydroelectric project, which has reshaped the landscape and livelihoods along the Yangtze. At noon, bid farewell to your cruise as you arrive in Yichang, where your private guide will transfer you to the train station. Board a high-speed train to Shanghai, and upon arrival, settle into your hotel for the night.

Step into Shanghai’s rich history at the Shanghai Museum, home to thousands of artifacts spanning China’s imperial past. From ancient bronze sculptures to delicate calligraphy, immerse yourself in the art and culture of dynasties past. Next, wander through the elegant Yu Garden, a classic Ming Dynasty garden filled with pavilions, koi-filled ponds, and intricate rock formations. Just outside, explore the lively Yuyuan Bazaar, where you can browse for souvenirs, silk, and traditional crafts. Stroll through the Former French Concession, a charming district lined with European-style villas, chic cafés, and tree-lined streets, offering a glimpse into Shanghai’s colonial-era elegance. End your day at the Bund, Shanghai’s most famous waterfront promenade. Here, gaze across the river at the futuristic skyline of Pudong, where iconic skyscrapers stand in contrast to the city’s historic Art Deco buildings.

Enjoy your final morning in Shanghai with some free time for last-minute shopping or a relaxing coffee in one of the city’s stylish cafés. When you’re ready, your guide and driver will pick you up for your transfer to the airport, where you’ll board your homebound flight, taking with you unforgettable memories of China’s history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes.