Beijing + Xian + Shanghai + Guilin

Upon arrival, you’ll be warmly greeted and escorted to the 5-star Fairmont Beijing Hotel in the heart of the capital.

Stand in Tiananmen Square and admire the architectural landmarks that surround one of the world’s grandest public plazas. Then follow in the footsteps of Ming Dynasty Emperors on a private tour through the magnificent Forbidden City c, a sprawling complex of palaces, courtyards and pavilions. At the Temple of Heaven c, you’ll find a resplendent example of Ming Dynasty design and engineering. Its unique layout also offers fascinating insight into ancient Chinese beliefs about numerology and cosmology. This evening’s banquet features Peking Duck.  Meals B+L+D
 

With formidable defensive towers and the surrounding mountain terrain, the more remote Mutianyu section of the Great Wall affords a more enthralling and authentic experience. Ascend by cable car to walk atop this ancient defensive structure and take in the sweeping views as your expert personal guide shares dramatic tales of China’s ancient history. For lunch, we’ve arranged a special picnic: Here in this unique setting atop the Great Wall, you’ll enjoy a lunch prepared by the kitchen of the celebrated Brickyard Restaurant.
 
In the afternoon, you’ll tour the resplendent Summer Palace, erstwhile seasonal retreat of China’s emperors. Set on wooded hills surrounding a tranquil lake, this assemblage of pavilions, palaces and gardens offers a fascinating look into Imperial life long ago.  Meals B+L

After breakfast, we’ll take you to the airport for your included flight to Xian, the ancient capital of China for 13 dynasties. On arrival, you’ll be met and escorted to the deluxe Hilton Hotel. After checking in, the balance of your afternoon and evening are at leisure to enjoy as you wish. With an enviable location inside the historic city walls, you’ll find Xian’s finest shops, restaurants and entertainment outside your front door.  Meals B

After breakfast, you’ll visit China’s greatest archaeological discovery, uncovered by local villagers in 1974. Stand in awe before the thousands of life-sized terra cotta soldiers and horses that were buried 2,000 years ago in perfect infantry formation to guard the tomb of an Emperor. With our expert guide at your side, this unforgettable visit offers a fascinating look into China’s ancient history.
 
Back in the city, continue your exploration into Xian’s rich history with a privately guided walking tour through Old Town including the ancient City Walls.  Meals B+L

You’ll be chauffeured to the airport today for your included flight to Guilin. On arrival, you’ll be warmly greeted and escorted by private car to the Shangri-La Hotel. Our marvelous luxury hotel enjoy a privileged setting amidst lush landscaped gardens on the banks of the tranquil Li River.    Meals B

The karst limestone formations that surround Guilin have captivated and inspired Chinese poets and painters for centuries. Soaring high above the Li River and the region’s rural villages and carefully tended fields, these are the ethereal mountain landscapes that will greet you this morning! After a sumptuous buffet breakfast, you’ll join your personal guide for a scenic cruise down the Li River. This is the best way to experience the dramatic scenery, where limestone peaks rise precipitously from water’s edge. Enjoy a buffet lunch onboard and then alight this afternoon in the ancient town of Yangshuo, where the narrow lanes and traditional architecture evoke China of a bygone era. Explore the town’s colorful bazaar and then join a local chef for a cooking class featuring the regional cuisine. After a congenial dinner featuring some of the dishes you’ve prepared, you’ll be chauffeured back to our luxury hotel.  Meals B+L+D

We include this morning’s airport transfer and your flight to Shanghai. On arrival, you’ll be escorted to the Fairmont Peace Hotel, the city’s storied Art Deco landmark. The balance of this day is at leisure to enjoy as you like. With our hotel’s prime location overlooking the waterfront Bund and close to bustling Nanjing Road, it’s easy to step out for your first taste of Shanghai’s cosmopolitan allure.  Meals B

Today’s sightseeing begins along the Bund, home to impressive landmarks built more than a century ago by Japanese and European trading companies. Then delight in the beauty of Yu Yuan Garden, originally created by a Ming Dynasty court official as a retreat for his aging parents.
 
After lunch, you’ll visit the Shanghai Museum, highly regarded for its expansive collection encompassing thousands of years of Chinese arts and culture – including ancient bronzes, celadon pottery, precious jade and exquisite antique furniture. Then fast forward to the 21st century as you marvel at the futuristic skyline of the Pudong Financial District, including the 1,614-foot-tall Shanghai World Financial Center and Oriental Pearl TV Tower. This evening, we’ll take you to one of our favorite city restaurants, followed by a thrilling performance with the world-famous Shanghai Acrobats.  Meals B+L+D

We’ll take you to the airport today for your homeward flight or onward journey.  Meals B