Day by Day

Days 1-2 Fly to Beijing

Day 3 Temple of Heaven

We begin in Beijing’s symbolic heart with a stroll across Tiananmen Square, flanked byimposing government buildings and the mausoleum of Chairman Mao. At the head of the square the sprawling magnificence of the Forbidden City is a monument to dynasties past. Entering through the Gate of Supreme Harmony, you will find a complex of a thousand rooms and many imperial treasures. Later soak up the harmonious ambience of the Temple of Heaven, an orderly oasis in a bustling urban landscape. This evening sit down to a traditional dinner of Peking Duck.
 

Day 4 Great Wall of China

This morning is dedicated to China’s most iconic sight – the Great Wall. Stretching thousands of miles from the Yellow Sea to the Gobi Desert, over all sorts of dramatic landscapes, it is one of the world’s most impressive feats of engineering. Taking a walk on this incredible structure is the best way to appreciate both the wall itself and the magnificent scenery that it crosses. Savour a relaxed afternoon in the idyllic landscapes of the Summer Palace as you wander through traditional gardens and admire exquisite architecture. Jade is revered throughout China, it is said to bring fortune and prosperity to those who wear it. You will have an opportunity to visit a Jade museum, where you will be able to buy a small handcrafted piece. A Chinese acrobatic show rounds off the day.
 

Day 5 Fly to Xian

Fly to Xian. An illustrious and age-oldcity, Xian is one of the four great ancientcapitals of China. It is also the capital ofShaanxi province, and the starting pointof the fabled Silk Road with a historyspanning 3,100 years. Take a leisurelystroll on the beautifully preserved 14thcentury city walls that enclose Xian’sold town to get your bearings, beforea delicious feast of traditional Shui Jiaodumplings and a performance of Tang Dynasty dancing.
 

Day 6 Terracotta Warriors

After their fortuitous discovery by local farmers in the 1970s, the Terracotta Army of China’s first Emperor Qin Shi Huang has intrigued visitors ever since. Spend the morning viewing the enigmatic ranks of life-like warriors who stand in their original formations at the exact location they were excavated. Visit the workshop of the craftsmen who recreate Terracotta Warriors in the style of their ancient counterparts. Watch the skilled production process and buy a souvenir warrior to take home. Fly to Chengdu.
 

Day 7 Grand Buddha of Leshan

Travel to Leshan to see the Grand Buddha, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, at 71 metres, this is the world’s largest stone-carved Buddhist monument. A short boat trip on the river will give even better views of the statue. Returning to Chengdu, there will be a stop at the riverside village of Huanglongxi, where cobbled streets and rickety wooden buildings retain the charms of the Qing Dynasty. Sample a delicious Sichuan meal this evening.
 

Day 8 Giant Pandas

A visit to Chengdu’s famous Panda Conservation Centre allows you to see and learn about China’s celebrated bears. See them up close in surroundings that mirror their natural habitat as they chomp through piles of bamboo. A look around the informative museum gives an overview of the Reserve’s breeding programme. Later, stroll down Jinli Street, a pedestrianised road in the old city which is lined with antique shops, bars and cafes.
 

Day 9 Fly Chengdu to UK

Return flght to the UK, arriving home the same or following day.