Classic China

The Classic China tour encompasses China’s must see attractions from the Yangtze River and Yunnan Province, to the treasure trove of sights revealed in its cities. This programme covers more of the country in a shorter time span to provide a true portrait of China. Experience the ancient wonders of Xian and Beijing and the ever popular Shanghai. Meet some adorable Pandas in Chongqing and wander the ancient, cobbled streets of Lijiang.

TOUR ITINERARY

Days 1-2: Australia/Shanghai

Fly to Shanghai with Singapore Airlines, where upon arrival we will be welcomed by our National Escort and transferred to our hotel for 2 nights. Shanghai is known as the ‘Paris of the East’ and we experience this exciting city with visits to the Yu Garden, Old Town and the Bund. Our welcoming banquet will be of sumptuous Shanghai cuisine.

Day 3: Shanghai

Visit the Shanghai Museum and cross the Great Nanpu Bridge to tour the Pudong area. We will also have the opportunity to explore the Xintiandi sector with its 1920’s style ‘shikumen’ buildings unique to Shanghai. In the evening enjoy a stunning Huangpu River Cruise.

Day 4: Beijing

Depart Shanghai and fly to Beijing this morning and transfer to our hotel for a 3 night stay. The city is full of wonders and our sightseeing today includes the exquisite Summer Palace and an evening banquet which includes the delicacy ‘Peking Duck’.

Day 5: Beijing

Enjoy an exciting walk on the Great Wall and tour the unique Temple of Heaven. In the evening we will see a fascinating Chinese Acrobatic Show.

Day 6: Beijing

Today we will stroll through famous Tiananmen Square, past Chairman Mao’s Mausoleum before exploring the treasured filled Forbidden City.

Day 7: Beijing/Xian

This morning enjoy a shopping spree at the famous Silk Markets before boarding our overnight sleeper train to the former imperial capital of Xian.

Day 8: Xian

Arrive in Xian this morning and transfer to our hotel for the next 2 nights. We visit the Little Wild Goose Pagoda and the renowned Shaanxi Museum, which houses thousands of priceless cultural relics. Walk through the lively Muslim Quarter, visit the Great Mosque and explore the interesting Islamic food markets, before enjoying a traditional Shui Jiao banquet this evening.

Day 9: Xian

Today we explore one of the most significant archaeological discoveries of the 20th Century, the life-size Terracotta Warriors, followed by the ancient City Wall, one of the few remaining in all of China. End this magical day with a live performance of traditional Tang Dynasty dancing.

Day 10: Xian/Yangtze Cruise

Fly to Wuhan this morning and transfer by coach (6 hours approx) to board our Yangtze River Cruise vessel for the next 4 nights.

Days 11-13: Yangtze River Cruise

The Yangtze River is undeniably one of the world’s greatest. Enjoy a tour of the magnificent Three Gorges Dam before cruising on the mighty Yangtze River, passing through the spectacular Three Gorges and some of the most beautiful scenery in the world. Enjoy side-trips to the striking Shennong Stream or the Lesser Three Gorges.

Day 14: Chongqing/Guilin

We disembark from our cruise this morning and visit the new Panda House at Chongqing Zoo before flying to Guilin, one of China’s most beautiful cities and stay for 2 nights.

Day 15: Guilin-Li River Cruise

Relax on a cruise of the spectacular Li River and immerse ourselves in the breathtaking views of this unique landscape.

Day 16: Guilin/Kunming

Visit the stunning Reed Flute Caves and Mt Diecai before boarding our flight to Kunming for 2 nights. Sample the ‘Across the Bridge Noodles’ in the evening, the most famous meal in the province.

Day 17: Kunming

Today we enjoy a full day tour of the picturesque Stone Forest, where massive limestone columns form a vast forest of surreal shapes and images.

Day 18: Kunming/Lijiang

A thrilling day unfolds as we board our morning flight to the ‘Living Museum’ city of Lijiang. Upon arrival we will wander through the quaint cobbled streets and meandering canals of the Old Quarter, admiring the traditional and colourful Naxi costumes. This evening we attend the acclaimed Naxi Ancient Music Show.

Day 19: Tiger Leaping Gorge

Today we visit one of the most dramatic and deepest gorges in the world, Tiger Leaping Gorge and enjoy the truly breathtaking scenery.

Day 20: Lijiang/Kunming

Lijiang sits near the foot of the impressive Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, which soars to a height of 5500m. This morning we catch a chairlift to explore one of the high meadows and enjoy the amazing scenery. We will also visit Black Dragon Pool before flying back to Kunming.

Day 21: Depart Kunming

Enjoy the morning at leisure before boarding our overnight flight to Australia.

Day 22: Arrive Australia

Arrive home this morning filled with many happy memories.

Price Guide

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Images from Classic China