Wonders of China FIT Tour

TOUR ITINERARY

Day 1: Arrive Xian

Upon arrival in Xian, the ancient city you will be transferred to your hotel for the next 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 rivalled 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. Upon arrival visit the Shaanxi Provincial Museum before enjoying a traditional Shui Jiao dumpling banquet this evening.

Day 2: Xian

Visit the most important archaeological discovery of the 20th Century, the life-size Terracotta Warriors before stopping at the Ancient City Wall, one of the few remaining in all of China. Stroll through the lively Muslim Quarter to visit the Great Mosque and explore the interesting Islamic food markets. This evening enjoy a performance of Tang Dynasty Dancing.

Day 3: Xian/Yangtze Cruise

Visit the Little Wild Goose Pagoda before flying to Wuhan. Transfer by coach (6 hours approx) to board your Yangtze River Cruise vessel for the next 4 nights. The Yangtze River is undeniably one of the world’s great and legendary waterways. Originating from a trickling spring on the high Qinghai Plateau in Tibet and travelling over 6,300kms to pour into the ocean at Shanghai. With the river’s water level already noticeably rising due to the Three Gorges Dam Project, it is estimated that this rise has affected more than 10% of the world’s population which live along its banks.

Days 4-6: Yangtze River Cruise

Enjoy a tour to the Three Gorges Dam before cruising on the mighty Yangtze River. Along the way the cruise will travel through some of the most beautiful scenery in the world, the Three Gorges and take some shore excursions to explore the fascinating history and tranquil landscapes of the tributary streams (subject to change). Visit the captivating temples and legendary statues of the “Ghost City” in Fengdu, explore the Lesser Gorges, see the “trackers path” carved out of the steep, rock walls of the gorges, or perhaps hop into a “pea pod” boat to cruise up the Shennong Stream.

Day 7: Chongqing/Guilin

Disembark from your cruise and visit the new Panda House at Chongqing Zoo home to some of most adored animals in China, who are now also the cute and memorable mascot for the Worldwide Fund for Nature (WWF). Transfer to the airport and fly to the beautiful city of Guilin, where you will have an overnight stay.

Day 8: Li River Cruise/Yangshuo

Relax on the Li River Cruise to Yangshuo. Your boat journey will travel past tranquil farming and fishing scenes and picturesque villages. The main attraction however, is the stunning limestone karsts that tower above the river creating a magical landscape of mountains and water. The unique and natural beauty of this region has for centuries been an inspiration to Chinese artists and poets alike. Upon arrival you will be transferred to tonight’s hotel. The small town of Yangshuo is set in the lush green rice paddies of southern China, surrounded by meandering river ways and limestone peaks. Spend the evening walking the cobblestone streets or relax in a street side café and enjoy the colourful atmosphere of this enchanting town.

Day 9: Yangshuo/Guilin

Tomorrow visit the colourful local markets before returning to Guilin, where you will visit the stunning Reed Flute Caves.

Day 10: Guilin/Shanghai

Fly to Shanghai for 2 nights. Shanghai is often referred to as the ‘Paris of the East’ and later visit the superb antiquities and fine arts of the Shanghai Museum and wander the surrounds of neighbouring People’s Square.

Day 11: Shanghai

Further explore the city today with sightseeing tours to the Yu Gardens and the Old Town, the famous Bund home to an impressive collection of 1920’s neo classical buildings, Pudong New Economic Zone and explore the Xintiandi area with its 1920’s style ‘shikumen’ buildings unique to Shanghai. This evening enjoy a cruise on the picturesque Huangpu River.

Day 12: Depart Shanghai

Enjoy the morning at leisure. Transfer to the airport for your onward journey.

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