Your grand adventure begins upon arrival in Beijing (PEK). A dedicated service will greet you and ensure a smooth transfer to your luxurious hotel. The remainder of the day is yours to unwind and anticipate the historic splendors that await.

Sofitel Beijing Central or Grand Metropark Hotel Beijing or similar

The day is dedicated to the ultimate symbol of China: the Great Wall. You will visit the Mutianyu section, an essence of Ming Dynasty architecture renowned for its sweeping, beautiful scenery and magnificent battlements. In the afternoon, descend into the charming, historic lanes of Nanluoguxiang Lane, one of Beijing's oldest and most charismatic neighborhoods. The evening culminates in a special dinner: the warmth and flavor of Traditional Beijing Copper Hotpot, served in an individual pot for a personalized culinary experience.

Sofitel Beijing Central or Grand Metropark Hotel Beijing or similar

Today is yours to design. Enjoy a free day for shopping, sightseeing, or relaxing. Alternatively, choose one of our excellent optional excursions:

• Option      A: Beijing City Highlights (USD $109/pax): Explore the exquisite Summer Palace, stroll down Qianmen Street, and be amazed by a traditional Chinese Acrobatic Show. (Includes lunch, minimum 4 people).

• Option      B: Chengde Bullet Train Trip (USD $199/pax): Take a high-speed train      to Chengde to see the Putu Zhongcheng Temple (the "Small      Potala Palace") and the vast Chengde Mountain Resort. (Excludes      meals, minimum 6 people).

Sofitel Beijing Central or Grand Metropark Hotel Beijing or similar

The morning is steeped in imperial history, beginning at Tiananmen Square, the largest city square in the world, leading into the majestic gates of the Forbidden City, once the exclusive home of emperors.

Lunch is a culinary masterpiece: the world-famous Beijing Roast Duck, celebrated for its crisp, bright red skin and tender, savory meat.

The afternoon concludes with a visit to the Temple of Heaven, where emperors once sought blessings for bountiful harvests.

Later, you take a flight to Xi'an (XIY), the ancient heart of the Silk Road, where a welcoming service will escort you to the hotel. (A friendly reminder: Today involves a significant amount of walking, so comfortable, breathable shoes are essential!)

Novotel Xi'an Daming Palace or similar

Prepare for a powerful encounter with history at the Terra-cotta Warriors, one of the Eight Wonders of the World, a silent army standing guard for millennia.

After lunch, you’ll ascend the Xi'an Ancient City Wall, the largest and most intact in all of China, offering commanding views of the historic capital.

Next, visit the Big Wild Goose Pagoda, a remarkable Buddhist site. As twilight descends, immerse yourself in the dazzling nightly spectacle of the Grand Tang Dynasty Ever-bright City, experiencing the illuminated glory and splendor of the Tang Dynasty.

Novotel Xi'an Daming Palace or similar

Explore Xi'an's artistic side, starting with the Buddhist architecture of the Small Wild Goose Pagoda. View the exteriors of the Bell Tower and Drum Tower. Then, enjoy the cultural treat of a traditional Shadow Play performance at the Gaojia Courtyard.

In the afternoon, you'll be transferred for your flight to Shanghai (PVG), where an escort will meet you upon arrival.

Double Tree by Hilton Hotel Shanghai-Pudong or similar

Begin your Shanghai experience high above the city on the 88th floor of the Jinmao Tower for stunning panoramic views.

On the ground, admire the historic Wukang Buildingand then explore the charming local life in the alleyways of Tian Zi Fang.

The afternoon is dedicated to The Bund, where you can gaze at the dramatic contrast between classic and modern skylines across the Huangpu River.

End your day at the lively City God's Temple Ancient Street, and sample some local specialties.

Double Tree by Hilton Hotel Shanghai-Pudong or similar

Free at your own leisure till the hotel check-out time (before 12:00 noon). Enjoy a final breakfast before your scheduled transfer to the airport (PVG/SHA) for your flight home