China Jewels & Tibet Discovery - 2017

Day 1 - Arrive Shanghai
    Ni Hao and welcome to China! On arrival you will be welcomed by your Scenic Representative and escorted* to your luxurious hotel located on the famous Bund. (Please arrive at the hotel by 5.00pm). Stroll along the lively waterfront, admire the 1930s European colonial architecture or simply relax and settle in until this evening, when you will meet your Tour Director and fellow travellers for your tour briefing followed by your Welcome Shanghainese Dinner.
    Two Night Special Stay: Shanghai

    Meals included: Dinner

   
Day 2 - Shanghai
    This morning take a walk along the Bund, then meander through the narrow lanes and bustling street markets on your visit to the exquisite Yu Yuan Gardens of Old Shanghai. Enjoy a delicious lunch of dim sum, a Shanghai speciality. Encounter amazing treasures, including bronzes, ceramic and calligraphy on your visit to the Shanghai Museum, one of the largest museums in China with a collection of more than 120,000 treasures. Wander People’s Square, the large public square adjacent to the museum, which was part of the horse racing course of Shanghai. This evening witness the energy and excitement of a performance by the world renowned Shanghai Acrobatic Troupe. This amazing show blends Chinese acrobatics with state-of-the-art multimedia technology and innovation and is sure to be a highlight.

    Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch

   
Day 3 - Shanghai - Hangzhou
    Take the high speed bullet train to Hangzhou once described by Marco Polo as the most splendid city in the world. With its stunningly beautiful West Lake, this World Heritage site has inspired famous poets, scholars and artists since the 9th century. Cruise on the magnificent West Lake, arguably China’s most famous lake. Created in the 8th century during the Tang Dynasty, the lake has continued to influence garden design in both China and Japan. SCENIC FREE CHOICE Dining (1) a Chinese restaurant serving traditional dishes from Hangzhou, as well as specialties from surrounding cities; or (2) an International buffet revolving around an interactive kitchen that allows guests to watch the chefs in action.
    Two Night Stay: Hangzhou

    Meals included: Breakfast, Dinner

   
Day 4 - Hangzhou

    This morning discover the largest and most famous temple in southern China, the Lingyin Temple or Temple of Soul’s Retreat during your visit. Hangzhou is considered the tea capital of China, and you will see first-hand the process of farming tea trees and picking tea leaves during your visit to a Tea Plantation and China Tea Museum in Longjing village. This evening watch the amazing Impression of West Lake, a spectacle of light, music, dance and theatrics based on an ancient Hangzhou legend staged entirely upon the lake.

    Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch

   
Day 5 - Hangzhou - Wuhan
    Transfer to the airport for your flight to Wuhan in central China, one of the country’s famous historical and cultural cities with a history of more than 3,500 years. Spend time at Yellow Crane Tower, originally built more than 2,000 years ago. This spectacular tower is perched on top of Snake Hill and offers wonderful views from the top.
    Overnight Stay: Wuhan

    Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch

   
Day 6 - Wuhan - Yangtze River Cruise

    Discover the incredible exhibitions at Wuhan’s Provincial Museum, including the “Chime Bells of Marquis Yi”. This set of 65 restored bronze bells with gold-plated inscriptions about music is one of the finest artefacts from the Warring States Period of Chinese history.  Listen to a concert of both Western and Chinese music, given by local musicians who play on the reconstructed instruments.  Later this afternoon board the high-speed train to Yichang; passing through dramatic scenery, this newly opened train highlights China’s rapid modernisation and development. On arrival transfer to the port where you will embark on your luxury Yangtze River cruise.
    Four Night Luxury Cruise: Victoria Anna, Superior Cabin with Executive Amenities

    Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

   
Day 7 - Yangtze River Cruise
    This morning take your guided tour of the Three Gorges Dam, the largest in the world. Later cruise slowly through the fascinating ship locks and continue through Xiling Gorge, the longest and deepest of the Three Gorges.

    Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

   
Day 8 - Yangtze River Cruise
    Take an excursion through the Small Gorges, which are narrower than the Three Gorges but still impressive. Then cruise through the most scenic stretch of the Yangtze as it makes its way through the spectacular Wu Gorge known for its quiet beauty, forest covered mountains and cliffs so sheer that the sun barely penetrates the precipices. Then sail through Qutang Gorge, the shortest, narrowest and most dramatic of the gorges.

    Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

   
Day 9 - Yangtze River Cruise

    Take a shore excursion to Shibaozhai is known for its impressive wooden pagoda, which was built without any nails, and is appropriately named “The Pearl of the Yangtze.”  It is considered one of the gems of Chinese architecture.

    Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

   
Day 10 - Yangtze River Cruise - Lijiang
    Disembark in Chongqing and transfer to the airport for your flight to Lijiang, a World Heritage listed town. Complete with elaborate wooden houses lining the cobbled streets, and bridges arcing over glimmering waterways, Lijiang is a charming town. SCENIC FREE CHOICE Dining  (1) a Chinese restaurant showcasing authentic Cantonese cuisine with signature Yunnan and Sichuan specialties; or (2) a selection of popular Thai and other South East Asian inspired dishes.
    Three Night Special Stay: Lijiang

    Meals included: Breakfast, Dinner

   
Day 11 - Lijiang
    Take the cable car to the meadows and witness the spectacular Jade Dragon Mountain views. Enjoy the magnificent Impression Lijiang outdoor cultural show, showcasing the traditions and lifestyle of the local minority people. Return to Lijiang and wander the cobbled streets on your orientation walk. The old city is criss-crossed with canals and the market is crowded with local Naxi women in traditional dress.

    Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch

   
Day 12 - Lijiang

    Today is your free day to uncover more of the beauty and charm of this ancient town with its spectacular mountain scenery. In your free time you may like to indulge in a traditional spa treatment.  This evening listen to a performance of traditional Naxi music featuring primarily 70-90 year old men performing traditional music on local instruments.

    Meals included: Breakfast

   
Day 13 - Lijiang - Shangri La
    Leaving early you will travel along the old road that links Yunnan to Tibet, stopping at Stone Drum village which marks the first big bend in the mighty Yangtze River. Following the river, the road continues through the gorge eventually arriving at Shangri La. Previously known as Zhongdian, life has changed little here over time and yaks wander through the surrounding fields and Tibetan houses line narrow streets. Explore the 17th century Songzanlin Monastery, the largest Tibetan Monastery in Yunnan. The roofs are made of gilded copper and the main halls are decorated with magnificent murals depicting Buddhist legends. SCENIC ENRICH Spend time with a Tibetan family and learn about their traditions and unique way of life and taste yak butter tea.
    Overnight Stay: Shangri La

    Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

   
Day 14 - Shangri La - Lhasa
    Take a morning flight to Lhasa in Tibet, known as the ‘rooftop of the world’ with an average elevation of 4,900 metres. With Mt Everest bordering Nepal, and several of the world’s most important rivers having their source in the Tibetan plateau, the scenery and the isolation is truly spectacular. On arrival transfer to the hotel where the rest of the day is at leisure for you to acclimatise.
    Three Night Special Stay: Lhasa

    Meals included: Breakfast, Dinner

   
Day 15 - Lhasa
    The extraordinary Potala Palace, once the winter home of the revered Dalai Lama, dominates the skyline with its immense walls. Explore the incredible maze of corridors and more than 1,000 rooms, including the Red Palace and the White Palace. Explore the 1,300 year old Jokhang Temple, one of the oldest and most sacred in Tibet. Immerse yourself in the culture and history of this spectacular golden roofed temple which is always awash with pilgrims, the smell of butter lamps and incense. Then join the pilgrims as they wander along the holy Barkhor Circuit surrounded by colourful markets. SCENIC FREE CHOICE Dining (1) an international buffet featuring live cooking stations or (2) a Chinese restaurant specialising in Cantonese and Sichuan cuisine; or (3) a Tibetan buffet followed by a performance of traditional singing and music.

    Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

   
Day 16 - Lhasa
    SCENIC FREE CHOICE (1) explore the ancient and intriguing Deprung Monastery; or (2) visit the Dalai Lama’s former summer residence, Norbulingka and the interesting Tibet Museum; or (3) delight in a visit to Anitsamkung Nunnery and a local tea house. Travel to Sera Monastery, a well preserved monastery where the monks can be seen with their distinctive red robes and curved yellow hats. SCENIC ENRICH Witness the monks gather in the courtyard of Sera Monastery to discuss and debate the teaching of the Buddha and doctrines. Spend time with an expert and learn about the importance of Tibetan Buddhism.

    Meals included: Breakfast

   
Day 17 - Lhasa - Xi’an
    Journey to the airport for your flight to Xi’an, the ancient capital for eleven dynasties and east end of the Silk Road. This evening enjoy a dumpling banquet and sample a variety of these famous and tasty parcels. Witness a grand performance of traditional songs, dances and colourful costumes from the Tang Dynasty. This spectacular cultural show features more than 145 performers on stage together with a classical Chinese orchestra.
    Two Night Special Stay: Xi’an

    Meals included: Breakfast, Dinner

   
Day 18 - Xi’an
    This morning travel to the remarkable and awe-inspiring Terracotta Army. More than 2,000 years old, these terracotta warriors and horses were created to protect the tomb of China’s first Emperor Qin Shi Huang and were only discovered by a local farmer late in the 20th century. SCENIC ENRICH Experience the fascinating army of more than 6000 life size figures from your special VIP platform with a museum curator. Delve into Xi’an’s historical past and enjoy the panoramic views as you navigate the city’s walls, originally built in the 14th century, on an electric powered vehicle.

    Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch

   
Day 19 - Xi’an - Beijing
    This morning take your flight to Beijing and transfer to your luxurious hotel in the heart of downtown. Admire the hotel’s unique architecture accented by contemporary Chinese artwork or take a stroll and explore the surrounding area including the famous Silk Market. SCENIC FREE CHOICE (1) watch the artistry of performers and the colourful costumes from the famed Peking Opera; or (2) appreciate the emotion and action of traditional martial arts combined with evocative dance, and flying acrobatics at the spectacular Legend of Kung Fu show; or (3) uncover Beijing’s unique street foods during an evening walking tour; or (4) experience a wonderful foot massage and discover why people from Beijing appreciate the benefits of reflexology.
    Three Night Special Stay: Beijing

    Meals included: Breakfast

   
Day 20 - Beijing
    Discover the highlights of Beijing, a city rich in history with its myriad of ancient monuments, one of the world’s truly great cities. Home to the Imperial families during the Ming era, the Forbidden City, with the towering portrait of Chairman Mao looming above, will astound you with its size and the beauty of the many Imperial Palaces, elegant gardens and pavilions within. Stroll around the impressive Tiananmen Square, one of the world’s largest public squares and home to the Great Hall of the People and the Mao Zedong Mausoleum. Take a rickshaw ride through Beijing’s atmospheric old Hutongs, (narrow winding alleyways) to witness traditional Chinese life before enjoying the finer art of a tea ceremony. SCENIC FREE CHOICE Dining (1) a contemporary Asian restaurant which brings the diversity of Chinese, Japanese and Indian food to your plate; or (2) western and modern epicurean cuisine viewed from the chic open kitchen; or (3) a selection of China’s most popular dishes; or (4) a menu inspired by the legendary Ancient Tea Horse Trail that winds throughout Yunnan, Burma and Tibet.

    Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

   
Day 21 - Great Wall of China

    Journey to Mutianyu, for your visit to one of the lesser explored sections of the Great Wall. The dramatic scenery provides a picture-perfect backdrop to the Great Wall as it snakes through the mountains and countryside. Standing on the ancient ramparts is the only way to fully appreciate this magnificent structure, built more than 2,500 years ago, and to truly experience the vastness of China and the essence of the Chinese spirit. SCENIC SUNDOWNER Enjoy a drink at dusk at a wonderful roof top bar perched opposite the east gate of the massive Forbidden City and appreciate the size and scale of this incredible complex. This evening join your Tour Director for your Farewell Dinner, a sumptuous Peking Duck Banquet at the highly acclaimed restaurant, Duck de Chine.

    Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

   
Day 22 - Depart Beijing

    After breakfast take your transfer* to the airport for your onward or homebound flight (flight not included).

    *Check transfer entitlements with your travel agent. For guests who have already received documentation - refer to your booking summary.

    Meals included: Breakfast