Day 1: In Flight to Beijing
Today you will be in flight to Beijing.
Meals: N/A
Accommodation: N/A
Day 2: Arrival In Beijing
Upon landing at either Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK) or Beijing Daxing International Airport (PKX), you’ll be greeted with a warm welcome and transferred straight to your hotel. It’s time to shake off the jet lag and get excited for the journey ahead!
Meals: N/A
Accommodation: Beijing Chunhuiyuan Hot Spring Resort or similar
After a hearty breakfast, step into China’s imperial past with a visit to Tiananmen Square, the grand gateway to the Forbidden City and one of the largest public squares in the world. The rest of the day is yours to tailor—relax, explore independently, or join one of our exciting optional excursions for deeper insight into Beijing’s culture and heritage.
Optional Activities
Beijing Golden Mask Dynasty Show – 90.00 AUD
The Golden Mask Dynasty Show is an enchanting theatrical performance set in ancient China, featuring a blend of dance, acrobatics, and special effects, including an on-stage waterfall. Held in Beijing, the show tells the romantic and dramatic tale of a queen of the mythical Golden Mask Dynasty and her love for a rival general, beautifully weaving themes of love,
conflict, and reconciliation.
Forbidden City Tour – $80.00 AUD
Explore the Forbidden City, a vast imperial palace complex that served as the home of Chinese emperors for nearly 500 years, from the Ming to the Qing dynasty. Covering 180 acres, it consists of nearly 10,000 buildings, surrounded by a large defensive wall and moat. Known for its stunning architecture, intricate wooden carvings, and gold decorations, the Forbidden City symbolizes imperial power and authority.
Forbidden City Availability
Due to a daily limit on ticket availability for the Forbidden City, entry cannot be guaranteed and is subject to availability. To secure entry, we will pre-book tickets on behalf of all guests in advance using passport information, without requiring prior individual authorization. If tickets cannot be secured, an alternative visit to The Imperial Ancestral Temple will be arranged. Please note, this arrangement is made to ensure the smooth operation of the tour and does not involve any additionalcharges.
Note
The optional tour is not included in the main package and must be paid for on-site. The listed price is per person. Operation of the tour is subject to a minimum group size being met.
If you choose not to join an optional tour today, you will be dropped off at a designated location and informed about the pick-up time and place, typically 4-5 hours later. If you prefer not to wait, you can take a taxi back to the hotel at your own expense.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Beijing Chunhuiyuan Hot Spring Resort or similar
Day 4: Beijing – Great Wall
Today’s adventure takes you to one of the Seven Wonders of the World—the Great Wall of China! Visit the Juyongguan section, a historically significant and beautifully preserved part of the Wall, located 60 km from central Beijing. Feel the awe of walking along this massive structure, which stretches over 21,000 kilometers! On the return journey, stop by one of China’s largest jade exhibitions, where you’ll learn how jade has been cherished in Chinese culture for centuries. Then, delve into the charm of old Beijing through the hutongs – narrow alleyways lined with traditional courtyard homes known as Siheyuan. Your local guide will take you into one of these private homes for an authentic glimpse into traditional life. This cultural walking tour reveals Beijing’s storied past, with temples, small shops, and local families providing a vibrant backdrop. The evening is yours—relax or join an optional cultural show.
Optional Activities
Beijing Peking Duck Dinner*Evening Dinner – $50.00 AUD
Indulge in a classic Beijing Peking Duck banquet, a culinary tradition steeped in imperial history and flavor. Your dining experience begins with the dramatic tableside carving of the roasted duck—its golden, crispy skin expertly sliced and served alongside tender meat. Wrap the duck in delicate pancakes, layering it with hoisin sauce, fresh cucumber, and scallions for the perfect bite. The meal is rounded out with a variety of traditional side dishes, soups, and seasonal vegetables, all enjoyed in a warm, relaxed setting that reflects Beijing’s rich gastronomic heritage.
Beijing Hutong Life Tour – $40.00 AUD
Discover the timeless charm of old Beijing through the historic hutongs – narrow alleyways lined with traditional courtyardhomes known as Siheyuan. As you wind through these lively lanes, you’ll step inside one of the residences for a closer look at local family life, offering an authentic glimpse into Beijing’s cultural heritage and daily traditions.
Note
The optional tour is not included in the main package and must be paid for on-site. The listed price is per person. Operation of the tour is subject to a minimum group size being met.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Beijing Chunhuiyuan Hot Spring Resort or similar
Day 5: Beijing – Wuxi
Begin your day at a Chinese herbal institute, where you’ll learn about Traditional Chinese Medicine. Continue to the Temple of Heaven, a sacred imperial site and architectural gem. Morning visits offer the chance to see locals practicing Tai Chi and other exercises. In the afternoon, board a high-speed bullet train to Wuxi, reaching speeds of up to 300 km/h. On arrival, meet your local
guide and transfer to your hotel to relax or explore at your leisure.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Wuxi Mingdu Hotel or similar
Day 6: Wuxi – Suzhou
AVisit the scenic Brilliance of Lake Lihu, a peaceful park on the shores of Lake Taihu. This area has a storied past—ancient scholars like Fan Li and Xi Shi were said to have sailed here. Soak in the tranquil scenery, bridges, gardens, and poetic atmosphere. Next, stop by a freshwater pearl farm, where you’ll learn how these lustrous gems are cultivated and harvested. In the afternoon, continue your journey to Suzhou, renowned for its classical gardens and silk-making heritage.
Optional Activities
Suzhou Grand Canal Cruise – $60.00 AUD
Experience a leisurely cruise along Suzhou’s ancient canal, gliding from the city to the scenic Grand Canal. This is the perfect way to soak in the charming views and tranquil atmosphere of a traditional water town.
Note
The optional tour is not included in the main package and must be paid for on-site. The listed price is per person. Operation of the tour is subject to a minimum group size being met.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Qingneng Yishang PLUS Hotel or similar
Day 7: Suzhou – Hangzhou
Begin the day at the Lingering Garden, one of China’s most celebrated classical gardens and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Wander through a harmonious mix of pavilions, rock formations, ancient trees, and winding corridors. Then, visit the Suzhou Silk Factory, one of China’s largest producers of silk, to see firsthand how delicate silk threads are spun from cocoons. After this eye-opening visit, travel to Hangzhou, famously praised by Marco Polo as “the most beautiful and magnificent city in the world.” Evening at leisure or join one of our optional shows.
Optional Activities
Romantic Show of Song-Cheng – $105.00 AUD
Immerse yourself in the Romantic Show of Song Cheng, one of Hangzhou’s most iconic performances. This dazzling production blends stunning choreography, vibrant music, and cutting-edge sound and lighting effects to bring the legends and history of Hangzhou to life. Through this immersive audio-visual journey, you’ll witness scenes from ancient daily life in the Liang-Zhu culture, the majestic splendor of the Southern Song Dynasty court, the heroic spirit of the Yue family army, and heart-touching retellings of beloved tales like “The Butterfly Lovers” and “The Legend of the White Snake.” It’s more than a show – it’s a vivid celebration of Chinese culture, history, and romance you won’t want to miss.
Note
The optional tour is not included in the main package and must be paid for on-site. The listed price is per person. Operation of the tour is subject to a minimum group size being met.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hoilday Inn Airport Zone or similar
Day 8: Hangzhou – Shanghai
Explore the poetic charm of West Lake, another UNESCO-listed cultural landscape. Glide across the calm waters surrounded by pagodas, willow trees, and ancient legends. Then, visit a tea plantation to sample the famous Dragon Well (Longjing) tea, renowned for its health benefits and cultural significance. Learn about tea-picking, brewing, and the deep symbolism behind tea in Chinese society. After lunch, head to Shanghai, a vibrant metropolis blending Eastern tradition with Western innovation. In the evening, join the optional Huangpu River Cruise to witness Shanghai’s skyline light up from the water.
Optional Activities
Shanghai Huangpu River Cruise – $80.00 AUD
Shanghai, the city that never sleeps, is captivating by day and absolutely mesmerizing by night. As evening descends, hop aboard a scenic Huangpu River cruise to witness the city’s most dazzling lights from the waterway that divides it into two distinct worlds. On the west bank, marvel at the historic Bund, a Gallery of World Architecture, where colonial-era buildings shine brilliantly against the modern city skyline. Across the river on the east bank, the futuristic towers of Lujiazui Financial District—including the Oriental Pearl Tower and Shanghai Tower—glow in a dreamlike display of color and light. This unforgettable cruise offers a unique perspective of Shanghai’s blend of old-world charm and modern marvels, making it one of the city’s must-do experiences.
Note
The optional tour is not included in the main package and must be paid for on-site. The listed price is per person. Operation of the tour is subject to a minimum group size being met.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Kaiyuan Mingting Hotel, Shanghai Changxing Island or similar
Day 9: Shanghai
Discover The Bund, Shanghai’s iconic waterfront promenade, known for its colonial-era architecture and views of modern Pudong’s glittering skyline. This area is a powerful reminder of Shanghai’s role in international trade and politics in the early 20th century. The rest of the day is free for you to enjoy the city – shop on Nanjing Road, explore hidden alleys, or relax at a
local teahouse.
Optional Activities
Shanghai Chinese Acrobatic Show – $105.00 AUD
Prepare to be amazed as you take your seat at the ERA Shanghai Acrobatic Show, an extraordinary spectacle that combines jaw-dropping physical feats, theatrical artistry, and cutting-edge stagecraft. Set in a state-of-the-art theater, the show celebrates China’s legendary acrobatic heritage through a series of high-energy, visually stunning performances. Watch as gravity-defying contortionists, fearless aerialists, and precision-driven acrobats push the boundaries of human ability. Each act is enhanced by dynamic lighting, immersive soundscapes, and vibrant costumes, blending traditional acrobatics with modern technology and storytelling. Whether it’s a high-speed stunt or an elegant balance routine, every moment is choreographed to captivate and inspire. The ERA show isn’t just a performance —it’s an unforgettable journey through strength, grace, and imagination, and a true highlight of any visit to Shanghai.
Shanghai Insight Tour – $70.00 AUD
Embark on a journey through Shanghai’s architectural and cultural highlights with this enriching half-day tour. Begin at the vibrant Lujiazui Financial and Trade Zone, the economic heart of the city. Here, you’ll visit the iconic Jinmao Tower, a soaring 88-story skyscraper standing at 420.5 meters tall with a total construction area of 290,000 square meters. Aptly named the “Gold Luxuriance Building”, it represents a stunning fusion of traditional Chinese design and state-of-the-art construction technology, offering a striking example of Shanghai’s rapid
modern transformation. The tour continues to Xintiandi, a stylish district that blends historic charm with a modern atmosphere. Famous for its unique Shikumen-style architecture, this pedestrian-friendly area features trendy boutiques, cozy cafés, and galleries – offering a brief but memorable glimpse into the city’s evolving urban lifestyle.
Note
The optional tour is not included in the main package and must be paid for on-site. The listed price is per person. Operation of the tour is subject to a minimum group size being met.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Kaiyuan Mingting Hotel, Shanghai Changxing Island or similar
Day 10: Shanghai – Xi’an
Today you will take a bullet train (A domestic flight may be provided in place of high-speed rail journey) to Xian. Pick up and transfer to visit the incredible Wild Goose Pagoda. The temple was originally used to keep the Buddhist scripts which were carried by the great monk Yi Jing from the Indian area and over time it has become a holy place for pilgrims. In the evening, be fascinating by the optional Grand Tang Everbright City and feast on a yummy Dumpling Banquet.
Optional Activities
Grand Tang Everbright City & Dumpling Banquet – $75.00 AUD
Enjoy an evening of Xi’an’s cultural charm and modern flair, starting with a mouthwatering dumpling banquet featuring a variety of flavours and styles that showcase the region’s rich culinary tradition. After dinner, explore the vibrant Grand Tang Everbright City, a lively entertainment district filled with lights, music, street performances, and cultural displays – offering a perfect blend of history and contemporary excitement
Note
The optional tour is not included in the main package and must be paid for on-site. The listed price is per person. Operation of the tour is subject to a minimum group size being met.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Holiday Inn Express Xi’an Daxing or similar
Day 11: Xi’an
Today, embark on a fascinating Terracotta Warriors day tour in Xi’an. Accompanied by your knowledgeable local guide, marvel at the thousands of life-sized clay soldiers that have guarded the tomb of China’s first emperor for over two millennia. You may even have the rare chance to meet one of the original farmers who discovered the site in 1974 and hear firsthand about that historic moment. Later, head to the bustling Muslim Street, known for its vibrant atmosphere, tasty local snacks, and a wide variety of unique souvenirs.
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Accommodation: Holiday Inn Express Xi’an Daxing or similar
Day 12: Xi’an – Yichang – Yangtze River Cruise
After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your flight to Yichang – the gateway to the majestic Yangtze River. Upon arrival, board your 5-star Victoria Cruise and settle into your cabin. Later, gather in the main hall for the Captain’s Welcome Speech and a comprehensive safety briefing to kick off your river journey.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Victoria Cruise 5* or similar
Day 13: Yangtze River Cruise
Begin your morning with a rejuvenating Tai Chi session on the deck, surrounded by the peaceful river scenery. Today’s highlight is an excursion to the Three Gorges Dam Site, the largest hydropower project in the world and a feat of modern engineering. In the afternoon, cruise through Xiling Gorge, the longest and deepest of the Three Gorges, known for its dramatic cliffs
and breathtaking views. In the evening, attend the Captain’s Welcome Banquet – a festive celebration with gourmet cuisine and lively performances.
Optional Activities
Tribe of the Three Gorges – $70.00 AUD
Step into a preserved pocket of history untouched by the Three Gorges Dam project. Nestled in a lush valley, this scenic area offers an authentic glimpse into Ba-Shu culture, with traditional stilted houses, local performances, and peaceful natural surroundings. Wander through charming riverside paths, observe age-old customs, and immerse yourself in the region’s rich heritage.
In the evening, return to the ship and join fellow guests at the Captain’s Welcome Banquet, an elegant evening of fine dining and festive entertainment.
Note
The optional tour is not included and must be paid for on-site. Prices listed are for reference only. The final charges will be based on the prices displayed onboard.
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Victoria Cruise 5* or similar
Day 14: Yangtze River Cruise
Visit the Xiaoguanshan Ancient Folk Culture Park, showcasing relocated architectural relics preserved from the Three Gorges Dam Project. For a deeper cultural experience, you can join an optional excursion to Fengdu Ghost City. Explore this fascinating site, known for its vivid depictions of the Chinese afterlife, including landmarks such as the Bridge of Troubled Water and the Gate of Hell. In the evening, enjoy a Farewell Dinner onboard, reminiscing over the unforgettable experiences of your Yangtze River journey.
Optional Activities
White Emperor City – $70.00 AUD
Perched at the entrance of Qutang Gorge, White Emperor City is a cultural treasure steeped in Chinese poetry and Three Kingdoms history. You can walk through ancient gates, take in panoramic views over the gorge, and hear the legendary stories of historical figures like Zhuge Liang and Liu Bei who once walked these grounds. From this site, you’ll enjoy stunning views of Qutang Gorge – the same landscape featured on the back of the Chinese 10-yuan bill.
Note
The optional tour is not included and must be paid for on-site. Prices listed are for reference only. The final charges will be based on the prices displayed onboard.
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Victoria Cruise 5* or similar
Day 15: Yangtze River Cruise
Visit the Xiaoguanshan Ancient Folk Culture Park, showcasing relocated architectural relics preserved from the Three Gorges Dam Project. For a deeper cultural experience, you can join an optional excursion to Fengdu Ghost City. Explore this fascinating site, known for its vivid depictions of the Chinese afterlife, including landmarks such as the Bridge of Troubled Water and the Gate of Hell. In the evening, enjoy a Farewell Dinner onboard, reminiscing over the unforgettable experiences of your Yangtze River journey.
Optional Activities
Fengdu Ghost City – $70.00 AUD
In Fengdu Ghost City, you can visit dozens of fascinating sites and structures. Don’t miss highlights like the Bridge of Troubled Water, the Emperor’s Palace, and the Gate of Hell — each offering insights into traditional Chinese beliefs about the afterlife and ghost culture.
Note
The optional tour is not included and must be paid for on-site. Prices listed are for reference only. The final charges will be based on the prices displayed onboard.
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Victoria Cruise 5* or similar
Day 16: Depart Chongqing
This morning, you will disembark from the cruise at the designated port in Chongqing, where our local team will meet you for a direct transfer to the airport.
Meals: N/A
Accommodation: N/A
Day 17: Home
Touch down back home, carrying a lifetime of stories and experiences from your China adventure.
Meals: N/A
Accommodation: N/A
