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China Highlights - Fully Inclusive Price from £1990 pp

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Journey through many of China’s major sights and attractions; from the modern elegance of its cities, to the untainted charm of its local people, to its spectacular landscapes. As well as the Great Wall and Terracotta Warriors, highlights include the stunning garden cities of Suzhou and Hangzhou, the spectacular Li River and Chengdu’s adorable pandas.

Itinerary:

Days 1-2 : UK – Shanghai

Fly overnight to the cosmopolitan city of Shanghai, also known as the ‘Paris of the East’.

Day 3 : Shanghai

Sightseeing today includes a stroll through the beautiful Yu Gardens and the Old Town as well as a visit to the Shanghai Museum. We also explore the restored Xintiandi area with its unique 1920’s style shikumen buildings.

Day 4 : Shanghai – Suzhou

Travel by coach to the charming city of Suzhou, also known as the ‘Venice of the East’. Visit two of the finest oriental gardens: the Humble Administrator’s Garden and the Garden of the Master of the Nets, a local silk mill still in operation today and enjoy a cruise on the ancient Grand Canal.

Days 5-6 : Suzhou – Hangzhou

Continue by coach to beautiful Hangzhou, one of China’s former imperial capitals. Explore the local markets and experience an oriental tea-tasting. The next day, visit the Temple of Inspired Seclusion and the Six Harmonies Pagoda before a relaxing cruise on the tranquil West Lake.

Day 7 : Hangzhou – Shanghai

Travel to the ancient canal town of Wuzhen en-route to Shanghai.

Days 8-9 : Shanghai – Guilin

Walk along the famous Bund with its colonial architecture and indulge in some shopping opportunities along Nanjing Road. In the evening, enjoy a cruise on the panoramic Huangpu River. The next day, visit the modern Pudong area before flying to the beautiful city of Guilin.

Days 10-11 : Li River Cruise – Guilin

Cruise the stunning Li River and enjoy the breathtaking landscape of beautiful limestone hills, tranquil fishing scenes and picturesque villages. We continue downstream to the town of Yangshuo set in the lush green rice paddies of Southern China. The next day, explore the colourful local markets, walk along the cobblestone streets and soak in the atmosphere of this charming town before returning to Guilin where we visit Mt Diecai for views of the surrounding karst landscape. We also see the cormorant fishermen.

Days 12-13 : Guilin – Kunming

Visit the colourful Reed Flute Caves before flying to Kunming, also known as the ‘City of Eternal Spring’. In the evening we sample the famous Across the Bridge Noodles. The next day, explore the picturesque Stone Forest where the huge limestone columns form surreal shapes and images.

Day 14 : Kunming – Chongqing

Visit the Western Hills which wrap around Dianchi Lake before flying to Chongqing.

Days 15-16 : Chongqing – Chengdu

Visit Erlin Park, the People’s Hall and the General Stilwell Museum. Drive to Dazu, home to some of the most fascinating rock carvings in the world – the UNESCO Beishan Frescoes. The next day we visit the Baodin Stone Carvings, before travelling to Chengdu. Enjoy a delicious Sichuan meal in the evening.

Day 17 : Leshan day tour

Travel to Leshan to visit the remarkable Grand Buddha, the world’s largest stone-carved Buddhist statue. We take a short boat trip to view the statue from the river. Return to Chengdu, visiting the old town of Huanglongxie en-route.

Days 18-19 : Chengdu – Xian

Visit the famous Panda Reserve to see these adorable animals being reared in wooded surroundings reminiscent of their natural habitat. The next day, take a city tour of Chengdu before boarding the overnight train to the former ancient capital, Xian.

Days 20-21 : Xian

Arrive in Xian and visit the Little Wild Goose Pagoda. In the evening we will enjoy a traditional Shui Jiao dumpling meal followed by a performance of Tang Dynasty dancing. The next day, visit one of the most important archaeological discoveries of the 20th century – the Terracotta Warriors, followed by a walk along the Ancient City Wall.

Day 22 : Xian – Beijing

Visit the renowned Shaanxi Museum which is home to thousands of priceless relics. We also stroll through the lively Muslim Quarter to visit the Great Mosque and explore the Islamic food markets before boarding the overnight train to Beijing, China's capital city.

Days 23-24 : Beijing

Arrive in Beijing in the morning. Sightseeing today includes a stroll through Tiananmen Square, past Chairman Mao’s Mausoleum to the treasure-filled Forbidden City, which has the largest and best preserved collection of ancient buildings in China. Our evening meal includes the local delicacy, Peking Duck. The next day, walk on the Great Wall to appreciate the history of China’s most iconic attraction and visit the unique Temple of Heaven.

Days 25-26 : Beijing

Tour the exquisite Summer Palace and enjoy a fascinating Chinese Acrobatic show in the evening. The next day, visit Lama Temple and indulge in some last minute shopping at the bustling markets.

Day 27 : Beijing – UK

Fly to the UK, arriving home later the same day or the following morning depending on airline chosen.

Included in the price

* all international airfares
* all domestic transportation, departure taxes and current fuel surcharges
* all accommodation
* all meals
* entrance fees, guides and daily tours
* visa fees for UK passport holders

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