Best of China

Begin your discovery of Beijing with a privately guided tour of the magnificent Temple of Heaven, where Ming and Qing emperors once prayed for abundant harvests. Continue to the vast Tiananmen Square before exploring the spectacular Forbidden City, the world’s largest imperial palace complex. Home to 24 emperors for almost 500 years, this UNESCO World Heritage Site offers a fascinating insight into China’s imperial past.
Note: During peak travel periods, entry to Tiananmen Square may involve queues of up to two hours. Should you prefer not to wait, your guide can arrange for a panoramic drive past the square instead.

Optional Peking Duck Dinner (supplement applies): This evening, savour one of China’s most celebrated culinary experiences with an authentic Peking Duck dinner, served with delicate pancakes, scallions and traditional sauces.

Today’s highlight is one of the world’s greatest engineering achievements—the magnificent Great Wall of China. Travel to the beautifully preserved Mutianyu section and enjoy return cable car rides for sweeping views across the surrounding mountains. Later, return to Beijing for a traditional pedicab tour through the historic Hutongs, where narrow laneways reveal a glimpse into everyday local life and centuries of history.

This morning explore the incredible richness of the Summer Palace. Located northwest of Beijing this iconic Palace is famous for its well preserved imperial garden – the largest of its kind still in existence in China today. It is only a short 15km drive from central Beijing but you are transported into another world. Boating on the Kunming Lake will allow you a vivid glimpse of the palace while being lulled by gentle breezes. After a short rest transfer to the rail station for your high speed train to historic Xi’an.

Discover one of the world’s greatest archaeological treasures at the UNESCO-listed Terracotta Warriors and Horses Museum, where thousands of life-sized soldiers have guarded China’s first emperor for over 2,000 years. Returning to the city, visit the elegant Giant Wild Goose Pagoda before viewing the iconic Bell and Drum Towers, enduring symbols of Xi’an’s rich heritage.

Explore Xi’an’s remarkably preserved Ancient City Wall, where you may choose to cycle along the ramparts (optional, supplement applies) for a unique perspective of the old and new city. Afterwards, stroll through the lively Muslim Quarter, renowned for its bustling markets, historic mosques and tempting local delicacies. Later, transfer to the airport for your flight to Guilin.

Cruise along the breathtaking Li River, from Guilin to Yangshuo, one of China’s most iconic landscapes, surrounded by dramatic limestone karst peaks and tranquil rural scenery. On arrival in charming Yangshuo, is a free afternoon to explore attractions such as Moon Hill, the ancient Big Banyan Tree or the lively cafés and shops of vibrant West Street.

Experience rural China with your choice of a guided cycling tour or a scenic drive through peaceful villages, emerald rice paddies and farmland dotted with water buffalo. Gain an insight into local farming life before enjoying an optional bamboo raft journey along the tranquil Yulong River. This afternoon, learn the secrets of regional cuisine during a hands-on Chinese cooking class.

Return to Guilin and visit the spectacular Reed Flute Cave, famous for its colourful illuminated limestone formations. Afterwards, enjoy a stroll around Guilin’s picturesque central lakes before boarding your high-speed train to Chongqing. Upon arrival, transfer to your Yangtze River cruise vessel and settle into your cabin before your unforgettable cruise begins.

Today is your first full day cruising the mighty Yangtze River. Visit the remarkable Shibaozhai Pagoda, a striking 12-storey wooden structure perched dramatically against the hillside. Should river conditions require, this excursion may be replaced with a visit to Fengdu, the famous “Ghost City.”
Optional shore excursion (supplement applies): Visit Fengdu Ghost City, renowned for its fascinating temples, statues and legends of the Chinese afterlife.

Today cruise through the spectacular Three Gorges, beginning with dramatic Qutang Gorge before entering the serene beauty of Wu Gorge, renowned for its towering cliffs and mist-shrouded peaks. Transfer to a smaller vessel for an excursion through the tranquil Goddess Stream (or Shennong Stream, depending on river conditions), before continuing through the impressive Xiling Gorge.

Optional shore excursion (supplement applies): Explore the historic White Emperor City,
dramatically perched above the western entrance to Qutang Gorge.

Disembark this morning and enjoy a visit to the colossal Three Gorges Dam, the world’s largest hydroelectric power station and one of modern China’s greatest engineering achievements. Afterwards, transfer to Yichang Airport for your flight to vibrant Shanghai. On arrival, you will be met and transferred to your hotel.

Explore China’s most cosmopolitan city, beginning with the tranquil Yu Garden and its traditional pavilions, ponds and classical architecture. Continue to the fashionable Xintiandi district, home to beautifully restored Shikumen houses, before visiting the fascinating Propaganda Poster Art Centre. Finish the day strolling along the famous Bund and bustling Nanjing Road, where historic colonial buildings stand alongside Shanghai’s glittering modern skyline.

Your memorable journey through China comes to an end today. At the appropriate time, you will be transferred by private vehicle to Shanghai International Airport for your onward flight.

• 24/7 local operator support in China
• 13-nights’ hotel accommodation
• Breakfast daily at hotels
• 10 lunches
• 3 dinners
• Arrival and departure transfers by private vehicle
• Private tour escorted by English-speaking guide-private car
• Domestic flights (economy class): Xi’an / Guilin and Yichang / Shanghai
• Domestic train (2nd class): Beijing / Xi’an and Guilin / Chongqing
• Entrance fees
• China Travel Notes – issued by Innovative Travel

• International airfares
• Optional tours and excursions
• Porterage
• Tipping/Gratuities (please refer to tour notes for a recommended guideline)
• Personal Expenses
• Hotel charges for minibar or any extra charges
• Visas (unless specified)
• Travel Insurance (compulsory)
• Any other services not clearly mentioned in the inclusions above