DAYS 1 & 2
Depart on your scheduled flight to Shanghai, on arrival transfer to your flight to Xian, where we have reserved accommodation for you for two nights
DAY 3
Enjoy a city tour featuring the Goose Pagoda, the Drum Tower and Bell Tower before Included tour to the Terracotta Army and the amazing Han Tombs. This evening there will be an optional tour to the Tang Dynasty Folklore Show.
DAY 4
Transfer to the airport for your flight to Beijing. On arrival transfer to your hotel for a three night stay. This afternoon there will be a visit to the Temple of Heaven.
DAY 5
Included morning city tour of Beijing, featuring Chang An Avenue, Tian an Men Square, the Forbidden City, and the Imperial Palace. Afternoon visit to the Summer Palace and Beijing Zoo.
DAY 6
Included visit to the Great Wall. Lunch is followed by a visit to the Ming Tombs. This evening there will be a special Peking Duck Dinner.
DAY 7
Transfer to the airport for you flight to Shanghai where you will meet up with the main tour. Late afternoon arrival into Shanghai and transfer to your hotel for a two night stay, today inbound arrival permitting we visit Shanghai’s busy Nanjing Road, famous for its shops, and the Bund the city’s riverside boulevard.
DAY 8
Today we take a peek at the traditional side of Shanghai. Our included sightseeing features a visit to the Yu Yuan Gardens and its wonderful tea house. Then it’s on to the Jade Buddha Temple. This evening we include a trip to an acrobatic show.
DAY 9
Transfer to Zhujiajiao, a charming town of canals and bridges. This afternoon we visit Tongli, situated on the shores of Lake Taihu. The town stands on a number of islands, connected by forty-nine stone bridges. The river banks are lined with wonderful traditional houses and gardens offering a real flavour of ancient China. Continue to your hotel in Suzhou for a three night stay.
DAY 10
Ancient Suzhou is undoubtedly one of China’s most beautiful cities. This morning you will visit the Humble Administrator’s Garden and visit an embroidery factory. This afternoon we spend some time at the lovely Lingering Garden.
DAY 11
This morning take a rickshaw ride to the local markets, where you can pick up some distinctive souvenirs. Take a walk through the charming old streets of the city, where the people still live their lives steeped in the traditions of China. We continue to the Institute of Embroidery, whose museum contains examples of traditional silk robes and garments.
DAY 12
This morning we include a cruise along the Grand Canal to Pingwang. Transfer by coach to Hangzhou for a two night stay. Marco Polo described Hangzhou as one of the most beautiful cities in the world. Its legendary appeal has not diminished over the centuries, especially that of the famous West Lake.
DAY 13
Today you will enjoy a full sightseeing programme in Hangzhou including Lingyin Temple, Six Harmonies Pagoda, the Tea Garden and, of course, a boat ride on the West Lake. This serene lake is surrounded by forests and gardens and contains a number of picturesque islands and beautiful sights.
DAY 14
Drive to Shanghai for your final overnight stay. This afternoon and evening are free for you to enjoy this lively city.
DAY 15
Transfer to the airport for your return flight back to the UK. As you will be flying westwards arrival will be later the same day.