Great Cities of the East

The eastern cities of China encompass a history going back over a thousand years. Add to that the modern history of Hong Kong and the amazing scenic beauty of places such as Guilin and you will see that this journey is truly an Eastern Spectacular. Starting with Beijing’s Forbidden City, the heart of the Ming and Qing Dynasties our sightseeing over the first few days takes in many well known sites, including Tiananmen Square and the amazing Great Wall. Xian was another Imperial Capital, but here it was the Tang Dynasty and we will experience some classical Tang dancing during our visit as well as visiting the Terracotta Warriors, a World Heritage listed site. We will visit the beautiful garden city of Hangzhou and see the natural wonder of Mt Huang before travelling to the modern commercial centre of China, Shanghai, where the different nineteenth century European concessions have left their mark in the architecture. A short flight takes us to Guilin and a cruise through the breathtaking scenery of the Li River. Our journey ends in Hong Kong, a British colony until 1997 and since then a powerhouse of Chinese commercial activity where the shopping is not to be missed.

TOUR ITINERARY

Days 1-2: Australia/Beijing

Fly with Cathay Pacific via Hong Kong to Beijing, where upon arrival we will be welcomed by our National Escort and transferred to our hotel for the next 3 nights. Our welcoming banquet includes a sample of the delicacy ‘Peking Duck’.

Day 3: Beijing

As the capital of the People’s Republic of China, Beijing is the nation’s political, economic and cultural centre as well as being the most important centre in China for international trade and communications. Our first day of sightseeing involves a stroll through famous Tiananmen Square, the world’s largest public square, past Chairman Mao’s Mausoleum followed by a visit to the treasure filled Forbidden City; the largest and most preserved collection of ancient buildings in China.

Day 4: Beijing

An oft quoted saying in Beijing goes that ‘you have not been to China until you have climbed the Great Wall’. Built over two thousand years ago, it stretches all the way from Shanhaiguan Pass on the east coast to the Gobi Desert in the west; more than 5, 000 kms away. Walk along the wall admiring the panoramic views and reflect on the enormity of the material and labour required for its construction. It is estimated that a million people were used at different stages during the construction periods and that thousands died building it. This afternoon we will also visit the unique Temple of Heaven, built in the 15th century.

Day 5: Beijing/Xian

Indulge in a shopping spree at the bustling Silk Markets and tour the exquisite Summer Palace. Later fly to the former imperial capital of Xian for 2 nights. Xian (which means Western Peace) is located on the banks of the Yellow River and has a history dating back to 1000BC. The city served as the capital for many of China’s dynasties and once rivaled great cities such as Constantinople and Rome in size, culture and development. Xian was also the starting point of the Silk Road – a caravan trading route which carried not only silks, ceramics and spices but also led to an exchange of cultures, technologies and ideas.

Day 6: Xian

Be amazed by the Terracotta Warriors, one of the most significant archaeological discoveries of the 20th century, built over 2000 years ago to accompany Emperor Qin Shihuang into the afterlife. We also visit the Ancient City wall, one of the few remaining in all of China. We will also take a walk through the lively Muslim Quarter to visit the Great Mosque and the interesting Islamic food markets. Complete this day with a performance of traditional Tang Dynasty dancing.

Day 7: Xian/Hangzhou

Visit the Little Wild Goose Pagoda and the renowned Shaanxi Museum, home to thousands of priceless cultural relics. Afterwards fly to the picturesque city of Hangzhou for the next 2 nights.

Day 8: Hangzhou

Hangzhou has long been revered as one of China’s most beautiful cities. Visit the Temple of Inspired Seclusion and the Six Harmonies Pagoda. Relax in the afternoon whilst enjoying a cruise on West Lake.

Days 9-10: Hangzhou/Mt Huang

Travel by coach (3 hours) to Mt Huang or Huangshan, one of China’s most stunning natural wonders. Mt Huang is a scenic mountain range in southern Anhui province and is renowned for its classic scenic beauty, which lies in the peculiar shapes of its peaks and the view of the clouds from above. A UNESCO world Heritage site, this area has long been inspiration for Chinese artists and poets. The area comprises of many peaks with the tallest being Lotus Peak (1864m), Bright Summit Peak (1840m) and Celestial Peak (1829m). During our time here we will take a cable car to the summit to enjoy a panoramic view of the amazing scenery. See the many rock formations, thousand year old pine trees and the ever changing mist. Stay for 2 nights, one of which will be at the summit of Mt Huang and the other in the town of Tunxi, at the foot of the mountain.

Day 11: Mt Huang/Shanghai

Fly to Shanghai, China’s most cosmopolitan city for a 2 night stay. Our welcoming dinner will be a sumptuous Shanghai cuisine.

Day 12: Shanghai

Shanghai is often referred to as the ‘Paris of the East’. Experience this exciting city with visits to the Yu Garden, the Old Town, explore the superb antiquities and fine arts at the Shanghai Museum, wander around the neighbouring People’s Square and stroll along the famous Bund. In the evening enjoy a panoramic cruise on the Huangpu River.

Day 13: Shanghai/Guilin

Explore the Xintiandi precinct; with its 1920’s style ‘Shikumen’ buildings unique to Shanghai. Afterwards cross the Great Nanpu Bridge to explore the Pudong area before flying to Guilin, one of China’s most beautiful cities.

Day 14: Guilin

Relax on a cruise of the spectacular Li River; glimpse the striking limestone columns that tower above the river creating magical landscapes.

Day 15: Guilin/Hong Kong

Visit the stunning Reed Flute Caves and Mt Diecai before boarding our flight to Hong Kong for the next 3 nights. Breakfast only is provided whilst in Hong Kong, except where indicated.

Days 16-17: Hong Kong

Explore this vibrant city on a half day sightseeing tour of Hong Kong including Victoria Peak, Stanley Markets and Aberdeen Fishing Village (B/L). The following day is at your leisure to discover all the city has to offer (B).

Days 18-19: Hong Kong(B)/Australia

Enjoy the morning at leisure, before boarding our overnight flight to Australia. Arrive home the following morning filled with many happy memories.

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Images from Great Cities of the East