17 Day Amazing China with Tibet

DAY 1, Wednesday - Depart for China
Depart for China

DAY 2, Thursday - Arrive in Beijing
Arrive in Beijing, sprawling capital of modern China; meeting and transfer to your hotel. Remainder of the day is at leisure to rest, relax and acclimate to the time change
Overnight: Beijing

DAY 3, Friday - Forbidden City, Home Hosted Lunch in Hutong
After breakfast, join your Tour Manager and fellow travelers for an orientation meeting about the extraordinary journey that lies ahead in China and Tibet. Your exploration begins at huge Tiananmen Square, the largest public square in the world, built at the height of the Ming Dynasty. The square's Gate of Heavenly Peace was once used as a staging ground for imperial edicts and by Mao Zedong himself to declare the founding of the People's Republic in 1949. Enter the Forbidden City, once the residence of Chinese emperors from the Ming to the Qing dynasties. This extraordinary walled complex, designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is truly a masterpiece of Chinese architecture; its complex consists of 800 buildings with more than 9,000 rooms. Then, from the palatial to the modest, as you continue to a typical Hutong neighborhood. Beijing's Hutongs, a community of small residences centered around alleyways and courtyards, are dwindling in number as the city is modernized, but some have been preserved as "protected areas." Special arrangements just for you to meet a local family and share lunch together in their home - they will be delighted to share their secret family recipe for dumplings, complete with a demonstration. This evening, enjoy a festive Welcome Dinner, featuring China's world-famous Peking Duck
Overnight: Beijing
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 4, Saturday - The Great Wall & Ming Tombs
An amazing day! Travel to the extraordinary 2000-year-old Great Wall of China, one of the most spectacular structures ever built by man, spanning nearly 4,000 miles of China's northern frontier. Arrive at the Badaling section, the best-preserved and most complete section of the Great Wall of China. Mount the ramparts of this ancient wonder to view beautiful mountain passes, plateaus, and grasslands from this 7th-century defensive fortification. To aid local organizations, you'll plant a tree along the ancient paths to commemorate your visit to the Great Wall. After lunch, at a local restaurant, stop at a local jade shop to admire wares crafted with one of China's most famous materials. Next, continue to the Sacred Way lined with mythical stone beasts and statues. Originally built to lead to the mausoleum, it was thought to be the "road leading to heaven." Walk through the huge Memorial Stone Arch guarding its entrance continuing along the road to the 13 Ming Dynasty Tombs. Visit the Dingling Tomb, also known as the Underground Palace, the first Imperial tomb excavated in China, housing the remains of Emperor Wan Li and two of his wives. In the exhibition, you'll also see many of the precious golden crowns and glittering jewels that were uncovered
Overnight: Beijing
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

DAY 5, Sunday - Flight to Xian, Small Wild Goose Pagoda & Market Visit
This morning, transfer to the airport for your flight to Xian. Arrive in Xian, the ancient capital of eleven dynasties and an archaeological treasure trove. You're invited to a home hosted lunch with local community members, during which you will learn about life for the locals. Later, visit the Small Wild Goose Pagoda, one of the most famous Buddhist pagodas in China constructed during the Tang Dynasty. This brick and wood structure was only moderately damaged during the major earthquake in 1556 and still stands today as a compelling symbol of Xian. Then, on to the Muslim Quarter, a hub of the Muslim community in Xian. At the bustling Beiyuanmen Market, you'll find a unique blend of Chinese and Islamic stalls with food and crafts. Dinner is at a local restaurant
Overnight: Xian
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 6, Monday - Xian Antiquities with Terracotta Army
Morning visit to Xingqing Park, a hub of activity - join the residents of Xian in their morning exercise. Afterward, stop at a lacquer furniture shop to hear more about this delicate technique. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant. Then, a truly unforgettable experience! Arrive at the archaeological site of the magnificent Terracotta Warriors, a vast collection of more than 7,000 finely sculpted, life-size soldiers, horses and chariots that were entombed with Qin Shi Huang, China's first emperor. This world-famous site discovered by farmers in 1974 is still being excavated today, more than forty years since the time of its unearthing. This evening, attend an optional Tang Dynasty 6-course dinner, followed by a historical dance performance by the Tang Dynasty Troupe
Optional: Tang Dynasty Show with Dinner (PM)
Overnight: Xian
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

DAY 7, Tuesday - Xian City Wall, High-Speed Train to Chengdu
Begin the day with a visit to the ancient Xian city wall, which was started in 194 B.C. This is the most complete city wall that has survived in China, as well as being one of the largest ancient military defense systems in the world. Lunch is at a local restaurant. Afterward, board a high-speed train to Chengdu; arrival and transfer to your hotel in this capital city of Sichuan Province. Tonight, try the famous China "Hot Pot" for dinner. Created over 1,000 years ago, this dish varies by region and is popular all over the country. Be careful with the Szechuan version - it's spicy!
Overnight: Chengdu
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 8, Wednesday - View Giant Pandas, Visit Mahjong Parlor
This morning you'll get to visit some of Chengdu's most relaxed local celebrities - giant panda bears. You'll travel to the Chengdu Panda Research Center which houses more than 80 giant pandas. The center is one of the largest panda breeding facilities in the world. Their livelihood in the wild is under threat from deforestation. After lunch at a local restaurant, join some residents in a local Mahjong parlor to watch this ancient Chinese game and have a few lessons from the experts. Later attend the optional Sichuan Opera Show and be swept away and mesmerized by this exciting Sichuan show as artists take the stage in elaborate costumes to enact various performances
Optional: Sichuan Opera Show (PM)
Overnight: Chengdu
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

DAY 9, Thursday - Flight to Lhasa
Early morning flight from Chengdu to Lhasa*, storied capital of the Tibet autonomous region in China, located at 11,500 feet above sea level on the northern slopes of the Himalayas. Arrive at your hotel with time to rest and adjust to the high altitude. Lunch is at a local restaurant, followed by an afternoon briefing with Tibetan experts to hear about the local customs, traditions and the thrilling journey you will experience in Tibet. Rest of the day is at leisure. Tonight, dinner is at a local restaurant *Lhasa sits at an elevation of 11,500 feet above sea level. Your sightseeing will include a fair amount of walking, which at high elevations can be taxing for those in good physical condition. If you have any concerns about traveling to high altitudes, please consult with your healthcare provider.
Overnight: Lhasa
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 10, Friday - Potala Palace, Barkhor Street Bazaar
Today you'll see the astonishing Potala Palace, one of the grandest monuments in all of Asia. Built in the 17th century atop the original 7th-century site, the palace boasts more than 1,000 rooms, including the Red Palace (where the Dalai Lama once lived), 10,000 chapels, and a labyrinth of mysterious dungeons. It took 7,000 workers and 1,500 artists and craftsmen more than 50 years to build the adjoining White and Red Palaces. This Eastern architectural triumph was once the world's tallest building before the creation of 20th-century skyscrapers. After lunch at a local restaurant, visit the popular Barkhor Street Bazaar, located in the heart of Lhasa. Walk along the circular street filled with merchants and vendors offering a huge variety of local Tibetan art, crafts, and even tasty snacks
Overnight: Lhasa
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

DAY 11, Saturday - Jokhang Temple, Sera Monastery
Arrive this morning at the Jokhang Temple where you may observe the traditions of Tibetan Buddhism and hear the musical sounds of chanting sutras and the spinning of prayer wheels. Inside the Jokhang Temple, thousands of yak-butter candles flicker inside beneath the enlightened gaze of the golden 7th century Buddha statue. Stop at a Tibetan art shop to collect souvenirs to bring home. In the afternoon, you'll dine at a local restaurant, before visiting the Sera Monastery, known as one of the great three university monasteries of Tibet. This evening, savor a traditional Tibetan dinner together. Afterwards, enjoy a trishaw ride around Potala Square before heading back to your hotel
Overnight: Lhasa
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 12, Sunday - Flight to Chongqing, Cruise Embarkation
Depart Lhasa by flight to Chongqing, gateway to the Yangtze River. Continue to Eling Park, located on a hill near the heart of the city. The park was established at the end of the Qing Dynasty in 1909 by a wealthy businessman. Discover hundreds of plant species during a stroll though the different parts of the well-tended gardens. Ascend to the lookout tower for stunning views of the Chongqing skyline. This evening enjoy dinner before embarkation on your cruise ship to begin the scenic journey on the Yangtze River - you'll be welcomed by the warm and friendly crew
Overnight: Yangtze River
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

DAY 13, Monday - Cruise to Fengdu
The ship arrives this morning at Fengdu, with its 1,900 years of history. Today's shore excursion will visit the Jade Emperor Scenic Area. The sacred site lies on the northern side of the Yangtze River and west of Mingshan Mountain. It features a 100-foot-tall statue depicting the Jade Emperor, an important deity in Chinese Taoism, as well as 208 additional holy statues of deities. You will also encounter exquisite pagodas, pavilions, and terraces. Time to relax on board after your return to the ship
Overnight: Yangtze River
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 14, Tuesday - Qutang and Wuxia Gorges
Wondrous views await you today. Sail through Qutang Gorge, the smallest of the three Yangtze Gorges followed by spectacular views of the surrounding mountain passes as you sail through the 25-mile long Wuxia (Witches) Gorge, famous for its fabled Twelve Peaks. According to legend, the peaks are believed to be the spirits of 12 fairies, the most famous of them being the Shennu Feng (Goddess) Peak, topped by a huge rock resembling a kneeling maiden. The shore excursion takes you to visit the natural scenic wonders of the Shennv or Shennong Stream*. Finally, begin sailing downstream through Xiling Gorge. The longest and deepest section of the Three Gorges system, it comprises the Xietan, Qintan, and Kongling rapids in what is known as the Three Rapids of Xiling *The visit of Shennong or Shennv stream is dependent upon water levels.
Overnight: Yangtze River
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 15, Wednesday - Three Gorges Dam & Cruise Disembarkation
After breakfast, this morning's excursion provides you with impressive panoramic views of the Three Gorges Dam, the world's largest and most ambitious hydroelectric project ever undertaken by man, nearly six times the size of the Hoover Dam. This project has forever changed the landscape surrounding the Yangtze River. Then, fly to cosmopolitan Shanghai, the fastest growing city in Asia, with its dramatic ever-changing skyline. Upon arrival, have lunch with your group at a local restaurant. Tonight, perhaps explore some of the city's world-class international restaurants on your own
Overnight: Shanghai
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

DAY 16, Thursday - Yu Yuan Gardens & Caoyang Community
Stroll this morning along the famous Bund walkway, with its gorgeous vistas of old and new Shanghai. Stop at a local silk carpet & embroidery shop and see how the fabric is woven into stunning designs by local craftspeople. Afterward, visit the classical Yu Yuan Gardens (Garden of Happiness) in the Old Quarter, built during the Ming Dynasty. This beautiful and serene sanctuary features pagodas, lakes, and magnificent pavilions. Time at leisure for lunch & shopping in Shanghai. Later in the afternoon learn more about this ever-changing country by participating in an informative lecture and discussion about China's Cultural Revolution presented by a Shanghai resident who experienced the revolution first-hand and was sent to the countryside to be re-educated by the peasants. Tonight, bid goodbye to China and your fellow travelers at the Farewell Dinner at a local restaurant
Overnight: Shanghai
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

DAY 17, Friday - Depart China
Transfer to the airport for your departure flight
Meals: Breakfast