Majestic Yangtze - Wendy Wu

Days 1-2 Shanghai        
Arrive in the cosmopolitan city of Shanghai, also known as the ‘Paris of the East’. The next day you’ll see where east and west collide on streets lined with futuristic skyscrapers and 10th Century temples. Explore the classical Yu Garden and learn about the age-old silk production process at a factory. Admire panoramic views of the unique city sights on a cruise along the Huangpu River, tonight sample some traditional Shanghainese cuisine.        

Day 3 Shanghai to Yangtze River cruise            
Spend the morning roaming the modernistic Pudong area, Shanghai’s financial district with sky-high buildings and marvellous views of the Bund from enchanting Binjiang Park. Later catch your flight to Yichang where you will board the Yangtze River cruise vessel.  

Days 4-6 Yangtze River cruise  
Over the next three days you’ll be cruising the scenic Yangtze River revealing some dramatic scenery. Marvel at the man-made Three Gorges Dam which showcases a massive feat of engineering. Observe breath taking vistas as you pass through Wu gorge, known for its quiet beauty and forest covered mountains, and Qutang Gorge a narrow and intensely striking gorge. Spend time on the shore visiting the Jade Emperor Scenic Area, which has the largest image of the Jade Emperor in the world.          

Day 7 Yangtze River cruise to Chengdu    
Today disembark the cruise vessel in Chongqing and explore old Ciqikou, a district of porcelain production during the Ming and Qing dynasties. Stroll the narrow streets in the transforming morning energy, admiring the historic traditional architecture before your onwards travel to Chengdu. For dinner enjoy a delicious Sichuanese meal perhaps with a performance of Sichuan Opera, famous for its 'face-changing'.      

Day 8 Chengdu to Xian    
Meet China’s most famous resident, the giant panda at the Panda Conservation Centre where you can learn about China’s celebrated bear. See these lovable creatures in surroundings that mirror their natural habitat and possibly watch the feeding of the adorable younger pandas. Later, board your bullet train to Xian, this evening, dine on delicious Shui Jiao dumplings and watch a performance of Tang Dynasty dancing.  

Day 9 Xian          
After their fortuitous discovery in the 1970s, the Terracotta Army of China's first Emperor Qin Shi Huang has intrigued visitors ever since, view the enigmatic ranks of life-sized warriors at length.  Visit the fascinating workshop of the craftsmen who recreate Terracotta Warriors in the style of their ancient counterparts. Later stroll on the beautifully preserved 14th century city walls that enclose Xian's old town, then join the optional tour to see Xian lit up at night.

Day 10 Xian to Beijing    
Explore the exuberant city of Xian today, visit the Little Wild Goose Pagoda and walk through the lively atmospheric alleys of the Muslim Quarter. Later catch a flight to China’s capital city, Beijing.  

Day 11 Beijing        
Head to Tiananmen Square, Beijing's symbolic heart, and into the sprawling magnificence of the Forbidden City. Entering through the Gate of Supreme Harmony, you will find a complex full of imperial riches. Soak up the harmonious ambience of the Temple of Heaven, an orderly oasis in a bustling urban landscape, and end the day watching a Chinese acrobatic show.

Day 12 The Great Wall        
This morning is dedicated to China's most iconic sight, the Great Wall. Taking a walk on this incredible structure is the best way to appreciate both the sheer magnificence of the wall itself and the dramatic scenery that it crosses. In the afternoon, visit a jade factory then enjoy the idyllic landscapes of the Summer Palace as you wander through palatial Chinese gardens and view the exquisite architecture. This evening, savour Beijing's best known delicacy Peking duck.

Day 13 Beijing            
Your tour comes to an end following breakfast, transfer to the airport for your onward journey.