Epic China From Great Wall to Shanghai - 9 Days

Welcome to China! Upon your arrival in Beijing, we will whisk you away to your hotel for a brief respite. Later, as dusk begins to settle, we will head to Wangfujing Street�an energetic pedestrian thoroughfare brimming with shops and restaurants. It�s the perfect chance to immerse yourself in the city�s lively spirit. Dinner is included, after which we will return you to your hotel for a restful night. Please note: This tour may have travellers joining or departing at various points along the route, meaning group composition can change during the tour. Please also be aware that depending on group composition, guiding may be in additional languages as well as English.

Today promises an exciting exploration of Beijing, the bustling capital of China. We will embark on a full-day tour to discover some of the city's most iconic landmarks. Our first stop is the Forbidden City, also known as the Great Chinese Imperial Palace. This majestic complex was home to 24 emperors for nearly five centuries and showcases the grandeur of Chinese imperial architecture.

Next, we will head to Jingshan Park, where we will visit Coal Hill, one of Beijing's best-preserved imperial gardens. From the summit, we'll be treated to breathtaking views of the Forbidden City�weather permitting. Our journey continues with a stroll through Tiananmen Square, one of the largest public squares in the world, where we can admire the Great National Theatre, also known as the Beijing Opera House. Lunch is included in today�s plan.

In the afternoon, our adventure takes us to the Summer Palace, the imperial retreat of the Qing Dynasty, renowned for its scenic gardens and serene lakes. We will then delve into traditional Beijing life with a tricycle ride through the historic Hutong neighbourhoods. Here, we will experience the city's rich cultural heritage, explore traditional shops, and visit a Siheyuan, a traditional courtyard house that exemplifies the city's architectural charm.

We will return to the hotel for an overnight stay.

Please note that due to heritage protection measures, the Forbidden City has reduced its daily visitor capacity. Should we be unable to gain access, we will instead visit the Confucius Temple and the Lama Temple, both significant sites in Chinese history and culture.

Our adventure today takes us to one of the most renowned landmarks worldwide � the Great Wall of China at the Mutianyu section. This architectural marvel, steeped in over two millennia of history, meanders through dramatic mountain scenery. We�ll ascend and descend via cable car, allowing you to admire breathtaking vistas of this legendary structure.

Returning to Beijing, we visit the vibrant 798 Art District, which has transformed from a former military factory to a lively hub of contemporary art, replete with galleries, studios, and creative spaces. Our exploration continues at the Temple of Heaven, one of China's most significant religious complexes and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where emperors once prayed for favourable harvests.

To unwind after our eventful day, we�ll indulge in a soothing foot massage followed by a Tai Chi class, offering insight into the harmony of traditional Chinese culture. As we bid farewell to Beijing, a delicious lacquered duck dinner awaits, providing a delightful taste of local culinary traditions.

Following breakfast, we will make our way to the train station to board one of China's advanced high-speed trains, reaching speeds of 300 km/h. In just two hours, we'll find ourselves in Taian, a historic city nestled at the base of Mount Taishan, China's most revered mountain and a site of spiritual pilgrimage for many centuries. Our first stop will be the Dai Temple, an impressive Taoist complex dating back to the 11th century. This ancient temple is the starting point for the traditional pilgrimage route up the mountain. Lunch will be included.

In the afternoon, we will ascend Mount Taishan by cable car to the legendary "Gates of Heaven." From here, the final climb to the top must be done on foot, alongside numerous pilgrims, providing an experience rich with history and spiritual depth. As the day concludes, we will proceed by bus to Qufu, the birthplace of Confucius.

Today, we'll delve into the heart of Qufu, the city famed as the birthplace of the renowned philosopher Confucius, whose teachings have profoundly shaped Chinese culture. Our morning exploration includes visits to the Confucius Mansion and the Confucius Temple, both offering deep insights into the philosopher's enduring legacy and cultural impact.

After a morning immersed in history, we'll continue our journey to Xuzhou, where lunch will be provided. Once in Xuzhou, we'll take a fascinating tour of the underground Mausoleum of the Han Emperor, an archaeological marvel that includes a terracotta army reminiscent of the famous warriors of Xi�an, though on a more modest scale. Before heading to our hotel, we'll enjoy a scenic drive along the peaceful waters of Lake Yunlong, located in the heart of the city. We'll settle in Xuzhou for the night.

We begin our day early as we depart from Xuzhou and make our way to Nanjing, a vibrant city teeming with life and rich in history. Arriving around 12:30 p.m., you'll quickly sense the dynamic energy and charm of this metropolis, home to eight million residents. Our itinerary includes a visit to Purple Mountain, where we will explore the grand Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum, a remarkable tribute to the visionary who founded modern China. The serene Linggu Temple also awaits, offering a tranquil escape amidst its significant Buddhist heritage and beautiful surroundings. After our guided visits, you're free to immerse yourself in the city's various attractions and enjoy its commercial vibrancy at your leisure. We will stay overnight in Nanjing, allowing you ample time to experience and appreciate this fascinating city.

We'll begin our day by travelling to Suzhou, famed for its spectacular classical gardens, which hold the distinction of being a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Historically celebrated as a centre of silk production, Suzhou is synonymous with beauty and elegance. Our exploration includes a visit to the Garden of the Humble Administrator, the largest and most renowned garden in Suzhou, offering a captivating blend of meandering paths, serene ponds, and lush vegetation, exemplifying the art of traditional Chinese landscaping. You'll then have some personal time to wander along Pingjiang Road, a charming historic street adorned with canals, traditional teahouses, and artisan shops. Lunch is included in today's itinerary.

Later, we'll proceed to Tongli, an enchanting water town where narrow canals, stone bridges, and traditional houses evoke a sense of timeless China. Here, we'll enjoy a scenic boat ride through its peaceful waterways, taking in the town's enduring beauty. Our journey will conclude today as we make our way to Shanghai for an overnight stay.

Today, we continue our exploration of Shanghai, a city where tradition meets modernity. We'll start in Pudong, the heart of Shanghai's financial district on the bustling banks of the Huangpu River. A highlight here is the iconic Pearl Tower, one of the city's tallest skyscrapers, offering a stunning glimpse into Shanghai's rapid urban development.

Next, we'll take a scenic ferry across the river, providing a splendid view of Shanghai's distinctive skyline, a blend of historic and contemporary architecture. Our journey will lead us to the Old City, where we'll visit the tranquil Yuyuan Garden. This exquisite garden, dating back to the Ming Dynasty, showcases classical Chinese landscaping at its finest. Here, we�ll participate in an authentic tea ceremony, offering a taste of China's rich cultural traditions.

We'll then head to Xintiandi, a vibrant area known for its chic boutiques, stylish caf�s, and lively ambience. Lunch will be provided here, giving you the perfect opportunity to savour both the local cuisine and the energetic atmosphere.

In the afternoon, we'll delve into the artistic hub of Tianzifang. This former residential district is now a bustling enclave of narrow lanes filled with craft shops and contemporary art galleries. Our day's journey culminates with a stroll along The Bund, where magnificent colonial-era buildings line the waterfront, reflecting the influence of European trade in Shanghai.

As the afternoon winds down, you have free time to further explore Shanghai at your own pace. For those looking for an even more memorable experience, we recommend a boat trip on the river to see the dazzling city lights at night. It's an extraordinary way to cap off your day in one of China's most dynamic cities.

Following breakfast, our time on this remarkable journey draws to a close, hopefully leaving you with unforgettable memories and a deeper appreciation of China's captivating wonders.