Totally China - 8 Days

On arrival at Beijing Capital Airport, we are met by our local guide outside customs. We then transfer by private vehicle to our hotel. The remainder of the day is free to relax after the flight.

At 08:00, we meet in the hotel lobby for a short tour briefing and an introduction to fellow travellers. We then explore Tian’anmen Square, one of the largest public squares in the world, before continuing to the Forbidden City, including the Treasure Gallery. Once the imperial residence of Ming and Qing emperors, this vast palace complex offers a fascinating insight into China’s dynastic past.

Lunch is served at a local restaurant.

In the afternoon, we visit the Temple of Heaven, where emperors once prayed for good harvests, followed by an impressive Acrobatic Show showcasing traditional Chinese performance skills. This evening, we enjoy a special welcome a la carte dinner at a popular restaurant, featuring the renowned Peking Roast Duck and other authentic dishes.

Today’s highlight is our visit to the Mutianyu section of the Great Wall. A return cable car ride is included, allowing us to enjoy sweeping views of the surrounding countryside. We have ample time to walk along the Wall and take part in a celebratory group toast with red wine.

After a buffet lunch, we return to the city and stop for photos at the Olympic National Stadium, known as the Bird’s Nest. Later, we take a traditional rickshaw ride through Beijing’s historic hutong alleys, with the opportunity to visit a local family courtyard house and gain insight into traditional city life.

Beijing - Xi'an. This morning, we visit the Summer Palace, a beautifully landscaped imperial retreat centred around Kunming Lake. After lunch, we transfer to the railway station and travel by high-speed train to Xi’an. On arrival, our local guide and driver meet us and transfer us to the hotel.

We begin the day with a visit to the Terracotta Army Museum, home to thousands of life-sized warriors buried to guard China’s first emperor in the afterlife. Lunch is enjoyed at a nearby local restaurant.

In the afternoon, we visit the family home of the first farmer who discovered the Terracotta Army, followed by a hands-on experience creating a mini clay warrior with guidance from a local artisan. Returning to the city, we visit the Big Wild Goose Pagoda, an important Buddhist landmark.

This evening, we enjoy a Tang Dynasty Music and Dance Show while sampling a traditional Dumpling Dinner, a local speciality and an integral part of northern Chinese cuisine.

Xi'an - Shanghai. Our day begins with a relaxed visit to City Wall Park, where we observe local residents going about their daily routines and have the opportunity to learn basic Tai Chi from a master. We then explore the ancient City Wall itself, one of the best-preserved in China.

Around midday, we wander through the lively Muslim Quarter and enjoy an a la carte lunch featuring local flavours. Later, we transfer to the airport for our flight to Shanghai. On arrival, we are met by our guide and driver and transferred to our hotel, ideally located near the North Bund. The evening is free for a leisurely stroll.

This morning, we visit the Shanghai Museum, renowned for its collection of ancient Chinese art, followed by a walk through Yu Garden and its surrounding traditional bazaar. Lunch is at your own choice and expense.

In the afternoon, we stroll along the historic Bund, famous for its waterfront skyline, before enjoying a one-hour cruise on the Huangpu River. After returning to the hotel, our guide sees us into the lobby and wishes us bon voyage.

Today, you travel independently to the airport for your onward flight. As departure times vary, the hotel-to-airport transfer is not included, although assistance can be provided if required. Taxis are convenient and good value in China. We wish you a pleasant journey home and many lasting memories.