China Classic – Past Meets Present
Trip overview
Embark on an exclusive 12-day odyssey through China's most iconic landscapes and cultural landmarks.
Witness the Great Wall bathed in starlight, a private moment away from the crowds. Explore the awe-inspiring Terracotta Army, a testament to ancient Chinese ingenuity. Sail the majestic Yangtze Gorges on a luxury cruise, surrounded by untouched natural beauty. Immerse yourself in Shanghai's vibrant local culture, from the fascinating People's Park marriage market to the serene canals of Zhujiajiao. This meticulously crafted journey celebrates China's rich heritage while showcasing its dynamic modern face — an experience tailored for discerning travelers seeking depth, authenticity, and wonder.
Services
Included:
- Entrance fees to scenic spots listed in itinerary
- Meals specified in itinerary
- Assistance on arrival/departure & airport/hotel/station/ferry transfers as specified in itinerary
- Flights/trains specified in itinerary, with flight, airport tax and fuel fees included
- Sightseeing & activities as listed in itinerary
- Accommodation with daily breakfast
- Private transfers between airports, hotels and scenic spots in each city or area in private, air-conditioned vehicle as listed in itinerary
- One bottle of drinking water per person per day
- Service charges
Excluded:
- Flights/sightseeing/meals/other items not listed in itinerary
- Visa application & visa fee
- Gratuities or tips
- Travel insurance
- Personal expenses (e.g. room service, internet charges, laundry, drinks, telephone calls, optional activities)
- Excess baggage charge
- Optional activities
Optional:
- On request
Itinerary at a Glance
- Day 1: Beijing — Arrival day in Beijing
- Day 2: Beijing — Explore customs and culture in Beijing
- Day 3: Beijing - Gubei Water Town — Spectacular Great Wall by day and night
- Day 4: Beijing - Xian — Glorious technicolour of the Tang dynasty
- Day 5: Xian — Visit the iconic Terracotta Warriors
- Day 6: Xian - Chongqing - Yangtze River — Shaanxi Museum and Yangtze River cruise
- Day 7: Yangtze River — Atmospheric Fengdu ghost city
- Day 8: Yangtze River — Unspoilt beauty of the gorges
- Day 9: Yangtze River - Yichang - Shanghai — Three Gorges Dam and on to Shanghai
- Day 10: Shanghai — Fusion of past and present
- Day 11: Shanghai - Zhujiajiao Water Town — Classic water town escape from the city
- Day 12: Shanghai — Departure day
Destinations on this trip
Day 1: Beijing Arrival
Welcome to Beijing, China’s ancient capital rich in history and culture. Your personal local guide will meet you at the airport, accompany you to your hotel and share local insights along the way. The rest of the day is yours to relax at your own pace after check-in.
Day 2: Beijing Customs & Culture Immersion
After breakfast, stroll through Tiananmen Square, passing the Tiananmen Gate Tower and Monumentto the People's Heroes. Then explore the Forbidden City, where we'll take you off the beaten track todiscover hidden gems of this 600-year-old imperial palace. At noon, savor authentic Peking Roast Duck-Bejjing's iconic culinary delight with crispy golden skinand tender meat. In the afternoon, visit the Summer Palace, a masterpiece of Chinese classical gardening. Wanderthrough its elegant pavilions, winding corridors and serene lakes, and admire the iconic Seventeen-Arch Bridge that frames the landscape perfectly. Return to your hotel in the evening, with free time to relax or explore further.
Day 3: Great Wall by Day & Night
After breakfast, head to the Mutianyu Great Wall. Take the round-trip cable car for easy access up and down the mountain, leaving you plenty of time to explore this well-preserved section with its many watchtowers. After lunch, travel to Gubei Water Town and check into your hotel. As dusk falls, ride the cable car up to Simatai Great Wall—one of the few sections retaining its original Ming Dynasty character. Illuminated by warm golden lights, the ancient wall stretches across the mountains like a glowing dragon. In the evening, return to your hotel in Gubei Water Town to rest.
Day 4: Beijing Culture & Tang Dynasty Splendor in Xi'an
After breakfast, return to Beijing and visit the Temple of Heaven, where you can watch locals practicing tai chi and soak up traditional Chinese culture. Then take a rickshaw ride through the historic hutongs, getting a glimpse of old Beijing life. In the afternoon, take the high-speed train to Xi'an. After checking into your hotel, the rest of the day is yours to explore freely. Don't miss Datang Everbright City, where illuminated Tang-style architecture and the spectacular musical fountain show bring the dynasty's golden age to life.
Day 5: Terracotta Warriors & Xi'an Local Life
After breakfast, visit the world-famous Terracotta Warriors—one of China's most unmissable attractions. Each life-sized figure has a unique facial expression and distinct features, showcasing the unparalleled craftsmanship of Qin Dynasty artisans. Stand amid thousands of soldiers and marvel at the artistic mastery and formidable military power of ancient China. After lunch, visit a local craftsman's cave dwelling and try your hand at making your own mini terracotta warrior. Conclude the day at Xi'an's vibrant Muslim Quarter. Wander through the bustling streets, sample authentic local snacks, and experience the lively daily life of local residents.
Day 6: Shanxi History Museum & Yangtze River Cruise
After breakfast, visit the Shaanxi History Museum, home to priceless collections spanning millennia that showcase Shanxi's glorious ancient history. Admire its world-renowned, exquisitely crafted bronzeware and discover the fascinating legends behind each artifact. After lunch, take the high-speed train to Chongqing and board your Yangtze River cruise ship. Sail past Chongqing's glittering neon skyline as you enjoy dinner on board.
Day 7: Fengdu Ghost City
After breakfast on board, visit Fengdu Ghost City—a sprawling complex of shrines and temples dedicated to Chinese afterlife beliefs. Explore its eerie ghostly structures, including the infamous "Ghost Torturing Pass", and learn about ancient Chinese mythology surrounding death and the underworld. Return to the ship and unwind amid peaceful river scenery. Enjoy dinner on board as we cruise past the magnificent mountains lining the Yangtze.
Day 8: Three Gorges Natural Beauty
This morning, the ship sails through Qutang Gorge and Wu Gorge—two of the iconic Three Gorges. Don't forget your camera for breathtaking photo opportunities. After lunch, take an excursion to Shennong Stream, where you'll enjoy unspoiled natural scenery and hear ancient local legends passed down for thousands of years. In the evening, relax over dinner on board as we continue cruising.
Day 9: Three Gorges Dam & Shanghai Arrival
After breakfast, conclude your 3-day Yangtze cruise with a visit to the monumental Three Gorges Dam. Disembark the ship and take a private transfer to the airport for your flight to Shanghai. Upon arrival, your dedicated local guide will greet you and escort you to your hotel. After check-in, the remainder of the day is yours to relax or explore at your leisure.
Day 10: Shanghai: Past Meets Present
Your Shanghai exploration begins at Yu Garden, a classic Jiangnan garden featuring elegant traditional architecture, winding paths and tranquil greenery. Next, ascend to the Shanghai World Financial Center Observatory for a 360° bird's-eye view of the city's dazzling skyline along the Huangpu River. Visit the iconic Bund, where historic Western-style buildings stand in striking contrast to the modern skyscrapers across the river, embodying Shanghai's unique blend of Eastern and Western cultures. Conclude the day at Shanghai Old Street, a century-old bustling market where you can sample authentic traditional snacks and experience old Shanghai charm.
Day 11: Shanghai Marriage Market & Zhujiajiao Water Town
After breakfast, visit the unique Shanghai Marriage Market, where local parents gather to share information about their adult children in search of suitable partners—a fascinating glimpse into modern Chinese family culture. After lunch, travel by private vehicle to Zhujiajiao Water Town. Wander across stone bridges and cobblestone streets, or take a relaxing boat cruise along the winding canals. This well-preserved ancient town offers a peaceful escape from Shanghai's bustling city life. Return to your Shanghai hotel in the evening, with free time to relax or enjoy a final dinner in the city.
Day 12: Departure from Shanghai
After breakfast, enjoy some free time at your leisure. Your private transfer will then escort you to the airport for your homeward flight.
Good to know
- International flights are not included unless stated in your quote.
- Visa requirements depend on your nationality; we can advise.
- Moderate walking; some steps at heritage sites.
- Itinerary may adjust slightly for weather or local holidays.
