Arriving Shanghai

SHANGHAI – WUXI

Commence your day with a visit to the awe-inspiring Lujiazui Skywalk, which offers a breathtaking panorama of Shanghai’s iconic landmarks, including the Oriental Pearl Tower and Shanghai World Financial Center. En route to Wuxi, we’ll pause at the Hui-style Ancient Village Food Street for an authentic culinary adventure, where you can savor a blend of traditional and modern flavors.

Then, experience the serenity of the Qingming Bridge Water Alley, a hidden gem amidst the bustling metropolis. Leisurely stroll through the alley, admiring the ancient architecture and the tranquil canal waters. The rest of the day is yours to enjoy at your own pace, or you can choose to participate in our optional tour for further exploration.

Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Accommodation: Holiday Inn Express Wuxi Taihu New City or similar

Optional Activity:
Indulge in the Tranquil Nianhua Bay Zen Town Tour: Break free from the distractions of the outside world and submerge yourself in the tranquility of Zen spirituality. Discover the multitude of temples, gardens, and tea houses that together create this distinctive and serene haven. (Please note: This optional tour is not included and should be paid for on-site).

WUXI – NANJING

Begin your day by visiting the serene Changguangxi Wetland Park, a tranquil setting that offers an ideal opportunity to reconnect with nature. Take a leisurely stroll along winding paths, enveloped by lush greenery and vibrant flowers. After this peaceful morning, explore the renowned Taihu Pearl Museum, where you’ll embark on a fascinating journey into the intricate world of pearl cultivation.

Witness the entire process, from nurturing oysters to the delicate art of harvesting, providing you with a firsthand appreciation of these lustrous gems. Following lunch, journey to the heart of Nanjing to discover the Confucius Temple and the Qinhuai River Scenic Area. Wander through the beautifully preserved temple complex, marveling at the intricate architecture adorned with traditional Chinese motifs. To wrap up your day, step back in time as you wander through the enchanting Laomendong Historical and Cultural District. Meander through narrow alleyways, uncovering hidden treasures at every corner, admire the well-preserved traditional courtyard houses, and explore charming shops offering local handicrafts while savoring the enticing aroma of traditional snacks.

Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Accommodation: Holiday Inn Express Nanjing Happy Valley or similar

NANJING- SUZHOU

Commence your day with an invigorating exploration of the Shitoucheng Archaeological Park, a site bearing the remnants of ancient civilizations that offer captivating insights into China’s history. Here, you’ll encounter evidence of early human existence and gain a deeper appreciation of the region’s historical evolution. Following this, we proceed to the Jade Artifacts Exhibition Center, a haven for art and history enthusiasts alike.

Witness up-close the intricate works of jade art, be awed by the masterpieces, and uncover the profound symbolism and significance of jade in Chinese culture. After a delightful lunch, we make our way to the Couple’s Garden, a UNESCO World Heritage site celebrated for its exquisite beauty and tranquility. This garden exemplifies the elegant simplicity and charm of classical Chinese garden art. Spend the afternoon immersed in its breathtaking scenery, complete with picturesque pavilions, ponds, and harmonious rock formations, creating an enchanting ambiance. The remainder of the day is yours to savor at your own pace, providing the perfect opportunity to embrace the city’s vibrant culture and lifestyle at your rhythm, or you may opt to join our optional tour.

Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Accommodation: Holiday Inn Express Suzhou Changjiang or similar

Optional Activity:
Suzhou Boat Tour on Qili Shantang Street: Immerse yourself in the timeless enchantment of Suzhou during a captivating boat excursion along the renowned Shantang Street. Often referred to as the “Venice of the East,” Suzhou’s ancient canals, stone bridges, and traditional whitewashed houses transport you to the pages of a classic Chinese painting. As your boat gently glides along this historic waterway, you’ll be entranced by the scenes of locals amid their daily activities, ancient architecture, and bustling markets teeming with life. Watch the city’s rich heritage and culture unfold before your eyes in a panorama of fascination and charm. This experience goes beyond a simple boat tour; it’s a voyage into the heart of Suzhou’s enduring allure. (Please note: This optional tour is not included and should be paid for on-site).

SUZHOU – HANGZHOU

Embark on a day brimming with history, culture, and picturesque beauty. Our first destination is the Silk Culture Museum, where you’ll immerse yourself in the captivating world of silk production. Witness the intricate journey from cocoon to loom, delve into the cultural importance of silk in Chinese history, and be captivated by the remarkable exhibitions showcasing ancient silk garments.

Following a delightful lunch, we ascend to the Chenghuang Pavilion, a striking architectural marvel that graces the city of Hangzhou. From this vantage point, you’ll be treated to breathtaking panoramic vistas of the city, West Lake, and the surrounding landscape. Take a moment to appreciate the intricate carvings and artwork adorning the pavilion. The rest of the day is yours to relish at your own pace. Whether you choose to unwind and immerse yourself in the local culture or opt for our optional tour to further explore, the choice is yours.

Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Accommodation: Holiday Inn Express Hangzhou Chaoshan or similar

Optional Activity:
Experience the Most Memorable Hangzhou Performance: Immerse yourself in the otherworldly beauty of this extraordinary outdoor show directed by the renowned Zhang Yimou. It’s a breathtaking fusion of light, sound, and storytelling. Set against the natural backdrop of the West Lake, the performance seamlessly incorporates the lake and its surroundings into the stage, creating a mesmerizing visual spectacle. Witness the dancers moving in flawless synchronization with the music, their silhouettes mirrored on the glistening lake surface. The breathtaking choreography, enhanced by cutting-edge light and sound effects, weaves together the rich history and myths associated with the lake. This isn’t just a performance; it’s a testament to Hangzhou’s allure, leaving you with an indelible and harmonious memory. (Please note: This optional tour is not included and should be paid for on-site).

HANGZHOU – SHANGHAI

Commence your day with a revitalizing visit to the Meijiawu Tea Culture Village. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to immerse yourself in traditional Chinese tea culture. Explore an authentic tea plantation, savor the tranquil beauty of the landscape, and, of course, enjoy a cup of the finest green tea. Next, we’ll journey to the G20 City Balcony, a highly-rated viewing platform, offering breathtaking views of the Qiantang River.

A stop at the Health Preservation Centre is up next. Here, you’ll gain valuable insights into the ancient Chinese philosophy of balancing body, mind, and spirit for optimal health and longevity. After lunch, we’ll proceed to Nan」ing Road, Shanghai’s premier shopping street. Immerse yourself in the wonderful world of retail, where East meets West, and traditional shops stand alongside modern boutiques
The rest of the evening is yours to spend leisurely, providing the perfect chance to explore Shangha飞 vibrant nightlife. Alternatively, you can choose to join our optional tour for an even more fulfilling
experience.

Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Accommodation: Holiday Inn Express Shanghai or similar

Optional Activity:
The Bund and Huangpu River Cruise Tour: Explore the captivating charm of Shanghai from a distinctive vantage point during a Huangpu River Cruise. As you smoothly traverse the glistening waters of the Huangpu River, you’ll enjoy an uninterrupted view of the city’s most iconic landmarks, including the picturesque Bund district, a testament to Shanghai’s colonial history with its impressive array of European-style buildings. As night descends, be awed by the dazzling cityscape illuminated by a kaleidoscope of lights, crafting a mesmerizing symphony of colors. The juxtaposition of the modern high-rise structures on the Pudong side against the historical architecture of the Bund on the Puxi side provides a striking visual narrative of Shanghai’s rapid transformation. This river cruise goes beyond mere sightseeing; it’s an immersive voyage into the heart of Shanghai’s vibrant essence. (Please note: This optional tour is not included and should be paid for on-site.)

SHANGHAI – XIAN

Experience the pure joy of starting your day with a delectable hotel breakfast. Today, embark on a Journey to Xian, the captivating ancient city of China. As you arrive, a dedicated local representative will extend a warm welcome and accompany you to your hotel. Take a moment to relax and unwind or join us for optional tours and embark on your exploration of the enchanting city of Xian.

Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Titan Times Hotel or similar

Optional Activity:
Muslim Street & Grand Tang Everbright City Tour: This tour will take you on a journey through the city’s Muslim Quarter and Grand Tang Everbright City. Muslim Quarter is one of the must-see areas in Xian, where you can experience its vibrant atmosphere, taste delicious food, and browse through the local markets for souvenirs. Followed by a visit to Grand Tang Everbright City, a cultural theme park that showcases the history and culture of Xian through various performances and exhibits (Note that the optional tour is not included and must be paid for on-site)

FREE DAY IN XIAN

Today offers you the perfect opportunity to embrace freedom and leisurely uncover the hidden treasures of the city or visit your most cherished spots. For an even more enriching experience, why not consider joining an optional guided tour? It’s a fantastic way to enhance your exploration and make the most of this extraordinary day!

Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Titan Times Hotel or similar

Optional Activity:
Xian Cultural Guided Tour: This guided tour will take you to some of the lesser-known cultural and historical sites in Xian. Learn about the city’s rich history and visit the famous Wild Goose Pagoda, City Wall, and Xian History Museum (Note that the optional tour is not included and must be paid for on-site)

XIAN -YICHANG (EMBARK ON YANGTZE RIVER CRUISE)

Start your day in Xian with a robust breakfast at your hotel, ensuring you’re energized for the journey ahead After checking out, make your way to the train station for a high-speed train bound for Yichang. Upon reaching Yichang, seamlessly transition to the next phase of your adventure by being chauffeured to the embarkation point of your Yangtze River cruise. Take in the picturesque scenery en route, building anticipation for the thrilling experiences that lie ahead. Once aboard the cruise ship, settle into your well-appointed accommodations. Familiarize yourself with the ship’s amenities and partake in a welcome briefing that provides valuable insights into the upcoming itinerary and planned activities, setting the stage for a memorable cruise along the magnificent Yangtze River.

Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Victoria Yangtze River Cruise or similar

YANGTZE CRUISE: THREE GORGES DAM SITE

Commence your day with a satisfying buffet breakfast, preparing for your inaugural shore excursion to the remarkable Three Gorges Dam Site. This engineering marvel stands as the largest and most expensive project of its kind globally, stretching an impressive 2,335 meters in length and towering 181 meters in height. Despite its commendable contribution to clean energy production and the reduction of China’s reliance on coal, the dam is not devoid of controversy. As the day unfolds, delve into the intricacies of this colossal structure and its impact on the region. In the evening, conclude your exploration by returning to the ship, where you are invited to partake in the Captain’s Welcome Banquet. This delightful occasion offers not only a culinary feast but also an opportunity to connect with fellow travelers and revel in the camaraderie of your Yangtze River Cruise experience.

Meals: Breakfast & Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Victoria Yangtze River Cruise or similar

Optional Activity:
Tribe of Three Gorges Shore Excursion: Explore the Tribe of the Three Gorges, immersing yourself in the unique blend of Ba Culture and Shu Culture. Discover the traditional, witness local craftsmanship, and enjoy the picturesque surroundings. Engage with the local community, gaining insights into their daily lives and cultural practices (Note that the optional tour is not included and must be paid for on-site)

YANGTZE CRUISE: SHENGNONG STREAM, WU & QUTANG GORGE

Today, you’ll disembark from the cruise ship and journey to the enchanting Shennong Stream, depending on the cruise ship’s itinerary. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to fully appreciate the dramatic and distinctive beauty of the Yangtze River, framed by the imposing Outang and Wu Gorges. During this excursion, explore the Ancient Plank Road and Mangling Stairway, uncovering remnants of early settlements manifested in the form of hanging coffins suspended high on the limestone cliff faces. These coffins, cradling the remains of the Tujia people’s descendants, offer a poignant glimpse into ancient traditions. Amidst the stunning scenery of steep ridges and peaks, dense vegetation, and vibrant wildlife, including monkeys and tropical birds, the landscape becomes a living testament to the region’s natural wonders.

Meals: Breakfast & Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Victoria Yangtze River Cruise or similar

Optional Activity:
White Emperor City Shore Excursion: Perched atop Baidi Mountain on the northern bank of the Yangtze River in Fengjie County, the White Emperor City is an ancient temple complex with a storied history that has inspired numerous poems. This landmark, offering sweeping views of the western end of Outang Gorge, is so iconic that it graces the back of the Chinese 10-yuan bill. Visitors have the opportunity to partake in a trip to this historical site when river conditions permit, immersing themselves in the timeless beauty and cultural significance of this revered location (Note that the optional tour is not included and must be paid for on-site)

YANGTZE CRUISE : XIAOGUANSHAN ANCIENT FOLK CULTURE PARK & MT SHUANGGUI

Your final shore excursion unfolds at Mt. Shuanggui and Xiaoguanshan Ancient Folk Culture Park, a harmonious blend of nature and history. Mt. Shuanggui, a national forest park along the Yangtze River, has been a cherished destination for centuries, adorned with cliffside calligraphy and pavilions named after historical figures. In Xiaoguanshan Park, immerse yourself in breathtaking views and a journey through recreated ancient buildings, courtyards, and temples from the Fengdu region. This cultural haven also hosts performances like Sichuan opera, acrobatics, folk music, and puppet shows. This excursion beautifully concludes your Yangtze River journey, offering a rich tapestry of natural beauty and cultural heritage

Meals: Breakfast & Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Victoria Yangtze River Cruise or similar

Optional Activity:
Fengdu Ghost City Shore Excursion: Feeling adventurous today? Consider a visit to the Fengdu Ghost City, famously known as the City of Ghosts. Situated on Ming Mountain, this complex features temples, shrines, and monasteries adorned with depictions of instruments of punishment and paintings of demons. It vividly showcases the Chinese people’s imaginative interpretation of hell. If you’re up for an exploration that melds mythology and culture, Fengdu Ghost City awaits your brave spirit

DEPART CHONGQING (DEBARK ON YANGTZE RIVER CRUISE)

Today marks the conclusion of your Yangtze River cruise adventure as you disembark in Chongqing and you will be transferred to a hotel. You will have your leisure and free time for the rest of the day exploring Chongqing city on your own.

Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Chongqing Hotel or similar

CHONGQING – AUSTRALIA

The final day of our rewarding journey has dawned. Following a revitalizing breakfast at the hotel, and then we will escort you to Chongqing International Airport for your homeward-bound flight.

Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: N/A