Wonders of China

TOUR ITINERARY

DAYS 1-2: AUSTRALIA TO BEIJING

Fly overnight with Singapore Airlines to Beijing for a three-night stay.

DAY 3: BEIJING

This morning stroll through the famous Tiananmen Square, passing Chairman Mao’s Mausoleum before walking through the treasure-filled Forbidden City. This afternoon visit the 15th-century Temple of Heaven and enjoy a rickshaw ride through the traditional Hutong area. For dinner this evening sample the local delicacy, ‘Peking Duck’.

DAY 4: BEIJING

An often quoted saying in Beijing goes ‘you have not been to China until you have climbed the Great Wall’. Built over 2,000 years ago, it stretches all the way from the Shanhaiguan Pass on the east coast to the Gobi Desert in the west, more than 5,000km away. Walk along the wall, admire the panoramic views and reflect on the enormity of the material and labour required for its construction. This afternoon you will wander through the landscaped beauty of the Summer Palace and watch a fascinating acrobatic show.

DAY 5: BEIJING TO XIAN

Fly to Xian this morning. Upon arrival visit the Shaanxi Provincial Museum. This evening you will feast on a traditional Shui Jiao Dumpling banquet, a specialty of the region, whilst enjoying a performance of music and dance from the Tang Dynasty.

DAY 6: XIAN

Today you will see one of the most important archaeological discoveries of the 20th Century, the life-size Terracotta Warriors. You will also visit the ancient City Wall, one of the best preserved in all of China. Later this afternoon wander through the lively Muslim Quarter and explore the Islamic food markets.

DAY 7: XIAN TO WUHAN - YANGTZE RIVER

Fly to Wuhan this morning. Upon arrival you will be transferred by coach (approximately 4-5 hours) to Yichang to board your cruise for the next four nights along one of the world's greatest waterways, the Yangtze River.

DAY 8: YANGTZE RIVER CRUISE

Tour the Three Gorges Dam before cruising along the Yangtze River.

DAYS 9-10: YANGTZE RIVER CRUISE

Along the way you will journey past some of the most beautiful scenery in China and take shore excursions to explore the fascinating history and landscape of the tributary streams.

DAY 11: CHONGQING TO GUILIN

Disembark your cruise in Chongqing this morning and visit the Panda House at Chongqing Zoo. Later you will be transferred to the airport to board your flight to Guilin, one of China’s most beautiful cities.

DAY 12: GUILIN TO YANGSHUO

Cruise along the Li River today as you travel to the town of Yangshuo for an overnight stay. This boat journey takes you past tranquil farming and fishing villages and picturesque scenery. Spend the evening walking the cobblestone streets or relax in a street side café and absorb the colourful atmosphere.

DAY 13: YANGSHUO TO GUILIN

Enjoy a morning stroll to the local markets and wander through this charming town before returning to Guilin. Upon arrival this afternoon you will see the stunning Reed Flute Caves. This evening you will watch a display of traditional cormorant fishing.

DAY 14: GUILIN TO SHANGHAI

Fly to the cosmopolitan city of Shanghai this morning. Upon arrival visit Shanghai Museum and wander the surrounds of the neighbouring People’s Square.

DAY 15: SHANGHAI

Continue your tour of this exciting city today as you visit the Yu Gardens and the Old Town. Stroll along the famous Bund and view the Pudong and Xintiandi areas. As your farewell celebration this evening enjoy a cruise along the stunning Huangpu River.

DAY 16: DEPART SHANGHAI

This morning is free at your leisure before you are transferred to Shanghai airport to board your overnight flight to Australia.

DAY 17: ARRIVE AUSTRALIA

Arrive home this morning.