GORGEOUS CHINA 13 DAYS MELBOURNE FINAL - Travel Asia · Today’s activities include; a morning Tai...

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GORGEOUS CHINA 13 days Yangtze River Cruise, Beijing & Shanghai Gorgeous China 13 Day Tour Itinerary I/F L B D B D B B DAY 1 FRIDAY Begin your journey with your international flight to Chengdu. Upon arrival at the Chengdu International Airport you will be greeted by your tour guide and transferred to your hotel. The remaining time of the day is free for your individual activities. DAY 2 SATURDAY Chengdu - Yichang Today you will be transferred from Chengdu to Yichang by bullet train. Upon arrival, you will board the Yangtze River Cruise ship and begin your memorable 4-night cruise down the Yangtze River. DAY 3 SUNDAY B L D Yangtze River Cruise Three Gorges Dam Today’s activities include; a morning Tai Chi lesson and an optional shore excursion to the Three Gorges Dam Site. The Three Gorges Dam Site is one of the largest construction projects undertaken by mankind and is the biggest hydropower project in the world. You may also want to visit an optional shore excursion to the Tribe of the Three Gorges, the only large scenic spot that has not been influenced by the Three Gorged Dam project, which showcase the abundant Ba Culture and Shu Culture. This evening you will return to the ship and attend the Captain’s Welcome Banquet and enjoy the evening entertainment with a Chinese dancing ball. DAY 4 MONDAY B L D Yangtze River Cruise Lesser Three Gorges Today you may enjoy an optional shore excursion to the Lesser Three Gorges - a shinning pearl hidden in remote mountains. You will leave your cruise ship and board smaller vessels to sail through the narrower and breathtaking Lesser Three Gorges region, lined by sheer cliffs and mountains. Along the Yangtze River you willL appreciate the beauty of the Qutang Gorge and Wu Gorge and visit the ancient plank road, Mengliang Stairway and the Hanging Coffins. You may also want to visit an optional shore excursion to the White Emperor City, an ancient temple that is located atop Baidi Mountain on the northern bank of the Yangtze River in Fengjie County. You will then return to the ship and continue sailing into the western section of Xiling Gorge. DAY 5 TUESDAY B L D Yangtze River Cruise Fengdu Ghost City Today you may visit an optional shore excursion to the Fengdu Ghost City to see why it’s regarded as the “City of Ghosts”. The temples built on Ming Mountain depict the punish instruments and demon paintings, demonstrating the Chinese people’s imagination of hell. Return to the ship and continue to pass through the mountains of Eastern Sichuan. Tonight enjoy the farewell dinner and pack your bags in preparation for disembarking tomorrow. Chongqing - Beijing Today you will be transferred to Beijing. Upon arrival at the airport you will be met by your tour guide and transferred to your hotel. Take some time to relax and prepare for your full day tour tomorrow. DAY 7 THURSDAY Beijing Tiananmen Square, Forbidden City Begin your day with your daily hotel buffet breakfast, featuring a large selection of Asian and Western cuisine. You will then set out with your trip leader to discover Beijing’s imperial treasures. Stand in Tiananmen Square, one of the largest and grandest public plazas in the world. Enter the imposing walls of the Forbidden City, once the exclusive domain of the Ming Dynasty, for an extensive tour through this vast complex. Afterwards, visit the Silk Factory Outlet to learn about silk, the very trade item which started the famous Silk Road, and its delicate manufacturing process. DAY 8 FRIDAY Chengdu Arrival Beijing The Great Wall of China, 2008 Olympic Games Sites Today, you will travel into the rugged mountain landscapes north of the city to the magnificent Great Wall of China. Once on top of this ancient defensive structure, you’ll find that someL sections are quite steep, but the views are magnificent and the experience is truly unforgettable. You will then learn about Jade, China’s most precious and celebrated stone, and its manufacturing process at the largest Jade factory in Beijing. Furthermore, you will visit the 2008 Olympic Games Sites including the Bird’s Nest and Water Cube. Afterwards you will DAY 6 WEDNESDAY

Transcript of GORGEOUS CHINA 13 DAYS MELBOURNE FINAL - Travel Asia · Today’s activities include; a morning Tai...

Page 1: GORGEOUS CHINA 13 DAYS MELBOURNE FINAL - Travel Asia · Today’s activities include; a morning Tai Chi lesson and an optional shore excursion to the Three Gorges Dam Site. The Three

GORGEOUS CHINA 13 daysYangtze River Cruise, Beijing & Shanghai

FRI D1 I/F Chengdu arrival Begin your journey with your international flight to Chengdu. Upon arrival at the Chengdu International Airport you will be greeted by your tour guide and transferred to your hotel. The remaining time of the day is free for your individual activities. SAT D2 B/D Chengdu-YichangToday you will be transferred from Chengdu to Yichang. Upon arrival, you will board the Yangtze River Cruise ship and begin your memorable 4-night cruise down the Yangtze River. SUN D3 B/L/D Yangtze River Cruise, Three Gorges Dam Today’s activities include; a morning Tai Chi lesson and an optional shore excursion to the Three Gorges Dam Site. The Three Gorges Dam Site is one of the largest construction projects undertaken by mankind and is the biggest hydropower project in the world. You may also want to visit the Tribe of the Three Gorges, the only large scenic spot that has not be influenced by the Three Gorged Dam project, which showcase the abundant Ba Culture and Shu Culture. This evening you will return to the ship and attend the Captain’s Welcome Banquet and enjoy the evening entertainment with a Chinese dancing ball.MON D4 B/L/D Yangtze River Cruise, Lesser Three GorgesToday you may enjoy a shore excursion to Lesser Three Gorges - a shinning pearl hidden in remote mountains. You will leave your cruise ship and board smaller vessels to sail through the narrower and breathtaking Lesser Three Gorges region, lined by sheer cliffs and mountains. Along the Yangtze River you will appreciate the beauty of the Qutang Gorge and Wu Gorge and visit the ancient plank road, Mengliang Stairway and the Hanging Coffins. You may also want to visit the White Emperor City, an ancient temple that is located atop Baidi Mountain on the northern bank of the Yangtze River in Fengjie County. You will then return to the ship and continue sailing into the western section of Xiling Gorge.TUE D5 B/L/D Yangtze River Cruise, Fengdu Ghost CityToday you may visit the Fengdu Ghost City to see why it’s regarded as the “City of Ghosts”. The temples built on Ming Mountain depict the punish instruments and demon paintings, demonstrating the Chinese people’s imagination of hell. Return to the ship and continue to pass through the mountains of Eastern Sichuan. Tonight enjoy the farewell dinner and pack your bags in preparation for disembarking tomorrow.WED D6 B Chongqing - BeijingToday you will be transferred to Beijing. Upon arrival at the airport you will be met by your tour guide and transferred to your hotel. Take some time to relax and prepare for your full day tour tomorrow. THU D7 B/D Beijing, Tiananmen Square, Forbidden CityBegin your day with your daily hotel buffet breakfast, featuring a large selection of Asian and Western cuisine. You will then set out with your trip leader to discover Beijing’s imperial treasures. Stand in Tiananmen Square, one of the largest and grandest public plazas in the world. Enter the imposing walls of the Forbidden City, once the exclusive domain of the Ming Dynasty, for an extensive tour through this vast complex. Afterwards, visit the Silk Factory Outlet to learn about silk, the very trade item which started the famous Silk Road, and its delicate manufacturing process. FRI D8 B/L Beijing, The Great Wall of China, 2008 Olympic Games SitesToday, you will travel into the rugged mountain landscapes north of the city to the magnificent Great Wall of China. Once on top of this ancient defensive structure, you’ll find that some sections are quite steep, but the views are magnificent and the experience is truly unforgettable. You will then learn about Jade, China’s most precious and celebrated stone, and its manufacturing process at the largest Jade factory in Beijing. Furthermore, you will visit the 2008 Olympic Games Sites including the Bird’s Nest and Water Cube. Afterwards you will head back to the city to enjoy an oriental foot massage before returning to the hotel. SAT D9 B/L Beijing, Temple of HeavenIn the morning you will practice Tai Chi in the Temple of Heaven. Tai Chi is an internal martial art system which places emphasis on the development and control of Chi (consciousness) energy within the body. Afterwards, you will experience a traditional Chinese Tea Ceremony while sampling China’s locally-favoured brews at a Tea House.

SUN D10 B Depart Beijing Today you may choose to explore the city of Beijing at your own pace. Alternatively, you can join a selection of optional tours with our experienced local guide. Must- See Attractions: • You can visit the Beijing Zoo – famous for its collection of rare and unique animals in China, including its resident Giant Pandas.

• You may choose to visit the Lama Temple which is the largest and best-preserved lamasery in Beijing. It was built in 1694 and was originally the home of Qing Emperor Yongzheng before he became emperor.

• In addition, you can visit the Capital Museum which houses a large collection of ancient porcelain, bronze, calligraphy, painting, jade, sculpture, and Buddhist statues from imperial China as well as other Asian cultures. MON D11 B/L Beijing - ShanghaiToday you will board a high speed train to Shanghai. Upon arrival you will be met by your tour guide and set out to discover all of modern Shanghai. Today you will discover the largest financial and commercial centre, visit the Shanghai Nanjing walking district and explore the Shanghai Museum to learn more of the local culture and history. Visit the Bund by the Huangpu River and experience the city where the old meets the new. Enjoy an optional Huangpu River Cruise. You will cruise along the Huangpu River, past many of Shanghai’s famous sites such as the People’s Hero Monuments, the Bund, the Oriental Pearl Tower, the bustling International Passenger Station of Shanghai Harbour, the docks, the Wu Song ancient gun fort relics and the impressive skyline of the Pu Dong business district.TUE D12 B Ancient Water TownToday you may choose to explore the city of Shanghai at your own pace or choose to enjoy an optional tour of an Ancient Water Town. The town, known as "the Venice of Shanghai", is a well-preserved ancient water town in modern Shanghai. With a history of over 1700 years, it is typical of a country environment of southeast China. There are hundreds of gardens here that were established in the Ming and Qing dynasties. 15 rivers divide the town into 7 islands, with 49 historic bridges connecting the islands together. WED D13 Depart ShanghaiToday you will be transferred to the airport for your flight home or you may choose to extend your stay and continue to explore the mesmerising cities of China. We hope you enjoyed your journey to China with us!

Inclusions• International airfares• All domestic and international transfers in China• Sightseeing admissions• Private coach transportation• Experienced, English speaking guides• Meals: As stated in the itinerary• 12 nights’ accommodation: -1 night in Chengdu: Crowne Plaza City Centre or similar-4 nights-Yangtze River Cruise-5 nights in Beijing: Loong Palace Hotel & Resort or similar-2 nights in Shanghai: Crowne Plaza Shanghai Fudan or similar

Exclusions• China Visa• Travel Insurance (highly recommended)• Single supplement upgrades, add-on excursions, optional tours and evening entertainment• Anything not listed above ie: laundry, personal items

Gorgeous China 13 Day Tour Itinerary

I/F

LB

DB

DB

B

DAY 1 FRIDAY

Begin your journey with your international flight to Chengdu. Upon arrival at the Chengdu International Airport you will be greeted by your tour guide and transferred to your hotel. The remaining time of the day is free for your individual activities.

DAY 2 SATURDAYChengdu - YichangToday you will be transferred from Chengdu to Yichang by bullet train. Upon arrival, you will board the Yangtze River Cruise ship and begin your memorable 4-night cruise down the Yangtze River.

DAY 3 SUNDAY B L DYangtze River Cruise Three Gorges Dam Today’s activities include; a morning Tai Chi lesson and an optional shore excursion to the Three Gorges Dam Site. The Three Gorges Dam Site is one of the largest construction projects undertaken by mankind and is the biggest hydropower project in the world. You may also want to visit an optional shore excursion to the Tribe of the Three Gorges, the only large scenic spot that has not been influenced by the Three Gorged Dam project, which showcase the abundant Ba Culture and Shu Culture. This evening you will return to the ship and attend the Captain’s Welcome Banquet and enjoy the evening entertainment with a Chinese dancing ball.

DAY 4 MONDAY B L D Yangtze River Cruise Lesser Three GorgesToday you may enjoy an optional shore excursion to the Lesser Three Gorges - a shinning pearl hidden in remote mountains. You will leave your cruise ship and board smaller vessels to sail through the narrower and breathtaking Lesser Three Gorges region, lined by sheer cliffs and mountains. Along the Yangtze River you willL appreciate the beauty of the Qutang Gorge and Wu Gorge and visit the ancient plank road, Mengliang Stairway and the Hanging Coffins. You may also want to visit an optional shore excursion to the White Emperor City, an ancient temple that is located atop Baidi Mountain on the northern bank of the Yangtze River in Fengjie County. You will then return to the ship and continue sailing into the western section of Xiling Gorge.

DAY 5 TUESDAY B L D

Yan gtze River Cruise Fengdu Ghost City Today you may visit an optional shore excursion to the Fengdu Ghost City to see why it’s regarded as the “City of Ghosts”. The temples built on Ming Mountain depict the punish instruments and demon paintings, demonstrating the Chinese people’s imagination of hell. Return to the ship and continue to pass through the mountains of Eastern Sichuan. Tonight enjoy the farewell dinner and pack your bags in preparation for disembarking tomorrow.

Chongqing - BeijingToday you will be transferred to Beijing. Upon arrival at the airport you will be met by your tour guide and transferred to your hotel. Take some time to relax and prepare for your full day tour tomorrow.

DAY 7 THURSDAYBeijing Tiananmen Square, Forbidden CityBegin your day with your daily hotel buffet breakfast, featuring a large selection of Asian and Western cuisine. You will then set out with your trip leader to discover Beijing’s imperial treasures. Stand in Tiananmen Square, one of the largest and grandest public plazas in the world. Enter the imposing walls of the Forbidden City, once the exclusive domain of the Ming Dynasty, for an extensive tour through this vast complex. Afterwards, visit the Silk Factory Outlet to learn about silk, the very trade item which started the famous Silk Road, and its delicate manufacturing process.

DAY 8 FRIDAY

head back to the city to enjoy an oriental foot massage before returning to the hotel.

DAY 9 SATURDAYBeijing Temple of HeavenIn the morning you will practice Tai Chi in the Temple of Heaven.Tai Chi is an internal martial art system which places emphasis on the development and control of Chi (consciousness) energy within the body. Afterwards, you will experience a traditional Chinese Tea Ceremony while sampling China’s locally-favoured brews at a Tea House.

DAY 10 SUNDAYBeijing DepartToday you may choose to explore the city of Beijing at your own pace. Alternatively, you can join a selection of optional tours with our experienced local guide.

Must- See Attractions: •You can visit the Beijing Zoo – famous for its collection of rare and unique animals in China, including its resident Giant Pandas. •You may choose to visit the Lama Temple which is the largest and best-preserved lamasery in Beijing. It was built in 1694 and was originally the home of Qing Emperor Yongzheng before he became emperor. •In addition, you can visit the Capital Museum which houses a large collection of ancient porcelain, bronze, calligraphy, painting, jade, sculpture, and Buddhist statues from imperial China as well as other Asian cultures.

DAY 11 MONDAYBeijing - ShanghaiToday you will board a high speed train to Shanghai. Upon arrival you will be met by your tour guide and set out to discover all of modern Shanghai. Today you will discover the largest financial and commercial centre, visit the Shanghai Nanjing walking district and explore the Shanghai Museum to learn more of the local culture and history. Visit the Bund by the Huangpu River and experience the city where the old meets the new. Enjoy an optional Huangpu River Cruise. You will cruise along the Huangpu River, past many of Shanghai’s famous sites such as the People’s Hero Monuments, the Bund, the Oriental Pearl Tower, the bustling International Passenger Station of Shanghai Harbour, the docks, the Wu Song ancient gun fort relics and the impressive skyline of the Pu Dong business district.

DAY 12 TUESDAYShanghai Ancient Water TownToday you may choose to explore the city of Shanghai at your own pace or choose to enjoy an optional tour of an Ancient Water Town. The town, known as "the Venice of Shanghai", is a well-preserved ancient water town in modern Shanghai. With a history of over 1700 years, it is typical of a country environment of southeast China. There are hundreds of gardens here that were established in the Ming and Qing dynasties. 15 rivers divide the town into 7 islands, with 49 historic bridges connecting the islands together.

DAY 13 WEDNESDAYShanghai DepartToday you will be transferred to the airport for your flight home or you may choose to extend your stay and continue to explore the mesmerising cities of China.

We hope you enjoyed your journey to China with us!

Chengdu Arrival

Beijing The Great Wall of China, 2008 Olympic Games Sites Today, you will travel into the rugged mountain landscapes north of the city to the magnificent Great Wall of China. Once on top of this ancient defensive structure, you’ll find that someL sections are quite steep, but the views are magnificent and the experience is truly unforgettable. You will then learn about Jade, China’s most precious and celebrated stone, and its manufacturing process at the largest Jade factory in Beijing. Furthermore, you will visit the 2008 Olympic Games Sites including the Bird’s Nest and Water Cube. Afterwards you will

DAY 6 WEDNESDAY

Page 2: GORGEOUS CHINA 13 DAYS MELBOURNE FINAL - Travel Asia · Today’s activities include; a morning Tai Chi lesson and an optional shore excursion to the Three Gorges Dam Site. The Three

GORGEOUS CHINAYangtze River Cruise, Beijing & Shanghai

FRI D1 I/F Chengdu arrival Begin your journey with your international flight to Chengdu. Upon arrival at the Chengdu International Airport you will be greeted by your tour guide and transferred to your hotel. The remaining time of the day is free for your individual activities. SAT D2 B/D Chengdu-YichangToday you will be transferred from Chengdu to Yichang. Upon arrival, you will board the Yangtze River Cruise ship and begin your memorable 4-night cruise down the Yangtze River. SUN D3 B/L/D Yangtze River Cruise, Three Gorges Dam Today’s activities include; a morning Tai Chi lesson and an optional shore excursion to the Three Gorges Dam Site. The Three Gorges Dam Site is one of the largest construction projects undertaken by mankind and is the biggest hydropower project in the world. You may also want to visit the Tribe of the Three Gorges, the only large scenic spot that has not be influenced by the Three Gorged Dam project, which showcase the abundant Ba Culture and Shu Culture. This evening you will return to the ship and attend the Captain’s Welcome Banquet and enjoy the evening entertainment with a Chinese dancing ball.MON D4 B/L/D Yangtze River Cruise, Lesser Three GorgesToday you may enjoy a shore excursion to Lesser Three Gorges - a shinning pearl hidden in remote mountains. You will leave your cruise ship and board smaller vessels to sail through the narrower and breathtaking Lesser Three Gorges region, lined by sheer cliffs and mountains. Along the Yangtze River you will appreciate the beauty of the Qutang Gorge and Wu Gorge and visit the ancient plank road, Mengliang Stairway and the Hanging Coffins. You may also want to visit the White Emperor City, an ancient temple that is located atop Baidi Mountain on the northern bank of the Yangtze River in Fengjie County. You will then return to the ship and continue sailing into the western section of Xiling Gorge.TUE D5 B/L/D Yangtze River Cruise, Fengdu Ghost CityToday you may visit the Fengdu Ghost City to see why it’s regarded as the “City of Ghosts”. The temples built on Ming Mountain depict the punish instruments and demon paintings, demonstrating the Chinese people’s imagination of hell. Return to the ship and continue to pass through the mountains of Eastern Sichuan. Tonight enjoy the farewell dinner and pack your bags in preparation for disembarking tomorrow.WED D6 B Chongqing - BeijingToday you will be transferred to Beijing. Upon arrival at the airport you will be met by your tour guide and transferred to your hotel. Take some time to relax and prepare for your full day tour tomorrow. THU D7 B/D Beijing, Tiananmen Square, Forbidden CityBegin your day with your daily hotel buffet breakfast, featuring a large selection of Asian and Western cuisine. You will then set out with your trip leader to discover Beijing’s imperial treasures. Stand in Tiananmen Square, one of the largest and grandest public plazas in the world. Enter the imposing walls of the Forbidden City, once the exclusive domain of the Ming Dynasty, for an extensive tour through this vast complex. Afterwards, visit the Silk Factory Outlet to learn about silk, the very trade item which started the famous Silk Road, and its delicate manufacturing process. FRI D8 B/L Beijing, The Great Wall of China, 2008 Olympic Games SitesToday, you will travel into the rugged mountain landscapes north of the city to the magnificent Great Wall of China. Once on top of this ancient defensive structure, you’ll find that some sections are quite steep, but the views are magnificent and the experience is truly unforgettable. You will then learn about Jade, China’s most precious and celebrated stone, and its manufacturing process at the largest Jade factory in Beijing. Furthermore, you will visit the 2008 Olympic Games Sites including the Bird’s Nest and Water Cube. Afterwards you will head back to the city to enjoy an oriental foot massage before returning to the hotel. SAT D9 B/L Beijing, Temple of HeavenIn the morning you will practice Tai Chi in the Temple of Heaven. Tai Chi is an internal martial art system which places emphasis on the development and control of Chi (consciousness) energy within the body. Afterwards, you will experience a traditional Chinese Tea Ceremony while sampling China’s locally-favoured brews at a Tea House.

SUN D10 B Depart Beijing Today you may choose to explore the city of Beijing at your own pace. Alternatively, you can join a selection of optional tours with our experienced local guide. Must- See Attractions: • You can visit the Beijing Zoo – famous for its collection of rare and unique animals in China, including its resident Giant Pandas.

• You may choose to visit the Lama Temple which is the largest and best-preserved lamasery in Beijing. It was built in 1694 and was originally the home of Qing Emperor Yongzheng before he became emperor.

• In addition, you can visit the Capital Museum which houses a large collection of ancient porcelain, bronze, calligraphy, painting, jade, sculpture, and Buddhist statues from imperial China as well as other Asian cultures. MON D11 B/L Beijing - ShanghaiToday you will board a high speed train to Shanghai. Upon arrival you will be met by your tour guide and set out to discover all of modern Shanghai. Today you will discover the largest financial and commercial centre, visit the Shanghai Nanjing walking district and explore the Shanghai Museum to learn more of the local culture and history. Visit the Bund by the Huangpu River and experience the city where the old meets the new. Enjoy an optional Huangpu River Cruise. You will cruise along the Huangpu River, past many of Shanghai’s famous sites such as the People’s Hero Monuments, the Bund, the Oriental Pearl Tower, the bustling International Passenger Station of Shanghai Harbour, the docks, the Wu Song ancient gun fort relics and the impressive skyline of the Pu Dong business district.TUE D12 B Ancient Water TownToday you may choose to explore the city of Shanghai at your own pace or choose to enjoy an optional tour of an Ancient Water Town. The town, known as "the Venice of Shanghai", is a well-preserved ancient water town in modern Shanghai. With a history of over 1700 years, it is typical of a country environment of southeast China. There are hundreds of gardens here that were established in the Ming and Qing dynasties. 15 rivers divide the town into 7 islands, with 49 historic bridges connecting the islands together. WED D13 Depart ShanghaiToday you will be transferred to the airport for your flight home or you may choose to extend your stay and continue to explore the mesmerising cities of China. We hope you enjoyed your journey to China with us!

Inclusions• International airfares• All domestic and international transfers in China• Sightseeing admissions• Private coach transportation• Experienced, English speaking guides• Meals: As stated in the itinerary• 12 nights’ accommodation: -1 night in Chengdu: Crowne Plaza City Centre or similar-4 nights-Yangtze River Cruise-5 nights in Beijing: Loong Palace Hotel & Resort or similar-2 nights in Shanghai: Crowne Plaza Shanghai Fudan or similar

Exclusions• China Visa• Travel Insurance (highly recommended)• Single supplement upgrades, add-on excursions, optional tours and evening entertainment• Anything not listed above ie: laundry, personal items

Travel Asia Pty Ltd | Tel : 1800 761 981 | Web www.travel-asia.com.au

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LB

B

houses a large collection of ancient porcelain, bronze, calligraphy, painting, jade, sculpture, and Buddhist statues from imperial China as well as other Asian cultures.

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YOUR PACKAGE INCLUDES

• China Visa• Travel Insurance (highly recommended)• Single supplement upgrades, add-on excursions,optional tours and evening entertainment

• Anything not listed above ie: laundry, personal items

DAY 1 FRIDAYChengdu Arrival Begin your journey with your international flight to Chengdu.Upon arrival at the Chengdu International Airport you will be greeted by your tour guide and transferred to your hotel. The remaining time of the day is free for your individual activities.

DAY 2 SATURDAYChengdu - YichangToday you will be transferred from Chengdu to Yichang. Upon arrival, you will board the Yangtze River Cruise ship and begin your memorable 4-night cruise down the Yangtze River.

DAY 3 SUNDAYYangtze River Cruise Three Gorges Dam Today’s activities include; a morning Tai Chi lesson and an optional shore excursion to the Three Gorges Dam Site. The Three Gorges Dam Site is one of the largest construction projects undertaken by mankind and is the biggest hydropower project in the world. You may also want to visit the Tribe of the Three Gorges, the only large scenic spot that has not been influenced by the Three Gorged Dam project, which showcase the abundant Ba Culture and Shu Culture. This evening you will return to the ship and attend the Captain’s Welcome Banquet and enjoy the evening entertainment with a Chinese dancing ball.

DAY 4 MONDAYYangtze River Cruise Lesser Three GorgesToday you may enjoy a shore excursion to Lesser Three Gorges - a shinning pearl hidden in remote mountains. You will leave your cruise ship and board smaller vessels to sail through the narrower and breathtaking Lesser Three Gorges region, lined by sheer cliffs and mountains. Along the Yangtze River you will appreciate the beauty of the Qutang Gorge and Wu Gorge and visit the ancient plank road, Mengliang Stairway and the Hanging Coffins. You may also want to visit the White Emperor City, an ancient temple that is located atop Baidi Mountain on the northern bank of the Yangtze River in Fengjie County. You will then return to the ship and continue sailing into the western section of Xiling Gorge.

DAY 5 TUESDAYYangtze River Cruise Fengdu Ghost CityToday you may visit the Fengdu Ghost City to see why it’s regarded as the “City of Ghosts”. The temples built on Ming Mountain depict the punish instruments and demon paintings, demonstrating the Chinese people’s imagination of hell. Return to the ship and continue to pass through the mountains of Eastern Sichuan. Tonight enjoy the farewell dinner and pack your bags in preparation for disembarking tomorrow.

DAY 6 WEDNESDAYChongqing - BeijingToday you will be transferred to Beijing. Upon arrival at the airport you will be met by your tour guide and transferred to your hotel. Take some time to relax and prepare for your full day tour tomorrow.

DAY 7 THURSDAYBeijing Tiananmen Square, Forbidden CityBegin your day with your daily hotel buffet breakfast, featuring a large selection of Asian and Western cuisine. You will then set out with your trip leader to discover Beijing’s imperial treasures. Stand in Tiananmen Square, one of the largest and grandest public plazas in the world. Enter the imposing walls of the Forbidden City, once the exclusive domain of the Ming Dynasty, for an extensive tour through this vast complex. Afterwards, visit the Silk Factory Outlet to learn about silk, the very trade item which started the famous Silk Road, and its delicate manufacturing process.

DAY 8 FRIDAYBeijing The Great Wall of China, 2008 Olympic Games SitesToday, you will travel into the rugged mountain landscapes north of the city to the magnificent Great Wall of China. Once on top of this ancient defensive structure, you’ll find that some sections are quite steep, but the views are magnificent and the experience is truly unforgettable. You will then learn about Jade, China’s most precious and celebrated stone, and its manufacturing process at the largest Jade factory in Beijing. Furthermore, you will visit the 2008 Olympic Games Sitesincluding the Bird’s Nest and Water Cube. Afterwards you will

head back to the city to enjoy an oriental foot massage before returning to the hotel.

DAY 9 SATURDAYBeijing Temple of Heaven

DAY 10 SUNDAYBeijing DepartToday you may choose to explore the city of Beijing at your own pace. Alternatively, you can join a selection of optional tours with our experienced local guide.

Must- See Attractions: •You can visit the Beijing Zoo – famous for its collectionof rare and unique animals in China, including its resident Giant Pandas. •You may choose to visit the Lama Temple which is thelargest and best-preserved lamasery in Beijing. It was built in 1694 and was originally the home of Qing Emperor Yongzheng before he became emperor. •In addition, you can visit the Capital Museum which

DAY 11 MONDAYBeijing - Shanghai

DAY 12 TUESDAYShanghai Ancient Water Town

DAY 13 WEDNESDAYShanghai DepartToday you will be transferred to the airport for your flight home or you may choose to extend your stay and continue to explore the mesmerising cities of China.

We hope you enjoyed your journey to China with us!

• International airfares• All domestic and international transfers in China• Private coach transportation• Experienced, English speaking guides• Meals: as stated in the itinerary• 12 nights’ accommodation:

YOUR PACKAGE EXCLUDES

- 1 night in Chengdu: Chengdu Holiday Inn Qinhuang or similar - 4 nights - Yangtze River Cruise- 5 nights in Beijing: Loong Palace Hotel & Resort or similar- 2 nights in Shanghai: Crowne Plaza Shanghai Fudan or similar

Today you will board a high speed train to Shanghai. Upon arrival you will be met by your tour guide and set out to discover all of modern Shanghai. Today you will discover the largest financial and commercial centre, visit the Shanghai Nanjing walking district and explore the Shanghai Museum to learn more of the local culture and history. Visit the Bund by the Huangpu River and experience the city where the old meets the new. Enjoy an optional Huangpu River Cruise. You will cruise along the Huangpu River, past many of Shanghai’s famous sites such as the People’s Hero Monuments, the Bund, the Oriental Pearl Tower, the bustling International Passenger Station of Shanghai Harbour, the docks, the Wu Song ancient gun fort relics and the impressive skyline of the Pu Dong business district.

Today you may choose to explore the city of Shanghai at your own pace or choose to enjoy an optional tour of an Ancient Water Town. The town, known as "the Venice of Shanghai", is a well-preserved Ancient Water Town in modern Shanghai. With a history of over 1700 years, it is typical of a country environment of southeast China. There are hundreds of gardens here that were established in the Ming and Qing dynasties. 15 rivers divide the town into 7 islands, with 49 historic bridges connecting the islands together.

In the morning you will practice Tai Chi in the Temple of Heaven. Tai Chi is an internal martial art system which places emphasis on the development and control of Chi (consciousness) energy within the body. Afterwards, you will experience a traditional Chinese Tea Ceremony while sampling China’s locally-favoured brews at a Tea House.