Middle Kingdom Marvels: Beijing and Beyond's Bounty

• DAY 1 - Beijing: Unveiling the Adventure

As you touch down in Beijing, the capital of China, an air of excitement envelops you, setting the stage for an extraordinary adventure. Your journey begins with a seamless transition from the airport to your accommodation, guided by a knowledgeable local expert who will ensure a hassle-free introduction to this ancient city.

• DAY 2 - Beijing: Conquering the Great Wall of China

Embark on a truly unforgettable experience as you hike along the Jinshanling section of the iconic Great Wall of China, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This rugged and less-crowded stretch of the Wall offers breathtaking vistas of the surrounding countryside, allowing you to capture memorable photos and immerse yourself in the grandeur of this engineering marvel. Constructed during the Ming Dynasty, the Jinshanling Great Wall boasts 67 watchtowers, three beacon towers, and five passes, serving as a complete defensive system in its prime.

• DAY 3 - Beijing: Exploring the Heart of Imperial China

Begin your day with a serene Tai Chi lesson amidst the tranquil gardens of the Temple of Heaven, a cherished public venue for practicing this ancient martial art. Afterward, delve into the heart of Beijing's imperial past as you explore three UNESCO World Heritage sites: Tiananmen Square, the Forbidden City, and the Temple of Heaven. Marvel at the sprawling expanse of Tiananmen Square, where pivotal historical moments have unfolded, before venturing into the Forbidden City, the world's largest collection of preserved ancient wooden structures. Conclude your day at the Temple of Heaven, a serene oasis where emperors once performed rituals for bountiful harvests.

• DAY 4 - Beijing: Experiencing Authentic Local Life

Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Beijing's traditional neighborhoods, known as hutongs, where a maze of narrow alleyways and courtyard houses offer a glimpse into the city's working-class lives. Explore these charming enclaves by rickshaw, witnessing the bustle of daily routines and vibrant local artisans. Later, visit a local family and learn the art of making jaozi, the beloved dumplings of northern China, before embarking on a shared boat ride across the picturesque Kunming Lake at the UNESCO-listed Summer Palace.

• DAY 5 - Beijing to Xi'an: Embarking on a New Chapter

Bid farewell to Beijing as you board a high-speed bullet train, whisking you across the countryside to the ancient city of Xi'an. Upon arrival, witness the grandeur of the Tang Dynasty come alive at a captivating dinner show, featuring a colorful spectacle of dance and music that pays homage to this prosperous era of Imperial China.

• DAY 6 - Xi'an: Unearthing the Terracotta Warriors

Embark on a private guided bicycle tour that unveils the mysteries of Xi'an's iconic attractions. Marvel at the awe-inspiring Terracotta Army, an underground marvel discovered in 1974, comprising over 7,000 life-sized soldiers, archers, horses, and chariots guarding Emperor Qin's tomb. Explore the ancient city wall, one of the oldest and most complete city defenses still standing, before visiting the Big Wild Goose Pagoda, a major Buddhist site that once housed sacred texts brought back from India.

• DAY 7 - Xi'an to Longsheng: Embarking on a Rice Terrace Adventure

Board a flight from Xi'an to Guilin, followed by a scenic transfer to the breathtaking Longji Rice Terraces in Longsheng. Prepare for a memorable hike through the stunning rice terraces, marveling at the intricate steps carved into the mountainsides by the local Zhuang minority over centuries. Immerse yourself in the rural landscapes and witness the authentic way of life in this picturesque region.

• DAY 8 - Longsheng to Yangshuo: A Scenic Odyssey

Depart Longsheng and embark on a scenic journey to Yangshuo, a captivating destination renowned for its karst mountain landscapes and the iconic Li River. Along the way, savor a deluxe lunch and explore the vistas and rural lifestyles of Longsheng. In the evening, be mesmerized by the spectacular "Impression Sanjie Liu" show, created by the Oscar-winning director Zhang Yimou, featuring a mesmerizing display of lights, music, and a cast of 500 performers against the backdrop of the Li River and its towering mountains.

• DAY 9 - Yangshuo: Adventuring on Two Wheels and Vertical Ascents

Embrace the great outdoors as you explore the villages and rice farms of the Dragon River area by bicycle, immersing yourself in the region's breathtaking karst scenery. After a delicious cliff-side lunch, challenge yourself with a rock climbing adventure, scaling these unique rock formations under the expert guidance of internationally trained instructors. Cap off the day with a visit to a local market and a hands-on cooking class, where you'll learn to prepare delectable local dishes and savor the fruits of your labor.

• DAY 10 - Yangshuo to Shanghai: Unveiling the City's Modern Wonders

Bid farewell to Yangshuo as you embark on a journey to the cosmopolitan city of Shanghai. In the evening, prepare to be dazzled by the world-renowned Shanghai Acrobatic Troupe, whose gravity-defying performances and stunning costumes have garnered international acclaim. Indulge in a delectable dinner at Ye Shanghai, a restaurant housed in a renovated Shikumen-style house, before witnessing the awe-inspiring acrobatic spectacle.

• DAY 11 - Shanghai: Exploring the "Venice of the East"

Venture beyond Shanghai's modern facade and discover the city's traditional heart. Begin your day in Zhujiajiao, a picturesque water town known as the "Venice of the East," where you'll embark on a scenic boat ride through the canals, marveling at the traditional houses lining the banks. Back in Shanghai, savor a delectable lunch featuring the city's famous xiao long bao dumplings, before exploring the breathtaking Yu Gardens, a UNESCO-listed oasis dating back to the mid-16th century, featuring exquisite pavilions, rockeries, and architectural styles from the Ming and Qing Dynasties.

• DAY 12 - Shanghai: Farewell to China

As your extraordinary journey through China draws to a close, bid farewell to the bustling metropolis of Shanghai, carrying with you a treasure trove of unforgettable memories and a deeper appreciation for this nation's rich cultural tapestry.